When Mississippi’s summer sun is blazing, there’s no better place to find a cool escape than in the charming town of Laurel & Jones County. Whether you’re a fan of shopping, art, or good Southern eats, Jones County offers plenty of indoor adventures that let you enjoy the city’s personality without breaking a sweat. From beautifully curated boutiques to one-of-a-kind museums and cozy cafés, here’s your go-to guide for keeping cool and having fun this August.
Shop in Style — and Air Conditioning
Start your day at Lott Furniture Co., a historic family-owned business that’s been a staple in Jones County for over a century. Even if you’re not in the market for furniture, this spot is a visual treat and perfect for those who love vintage design. Just down the street, the Laurel Mercantile and Scotsman General Store & Woodshop are must-visit spots for fans of Home Town. Step inside to browse goods crafted by local artisans, heirloom wares, and branded merchandise that’s perfect for gifting or keeping for yourself.
For fashion and accessories, Southern Antiques and Guild & Gentry offer upscale style in beautifully restored interiors. These shops are ideal for a leisurely browse, with air-conditioned comfort and warm hospitality that reflects the heart of downtown Laurel.
Art, History, and Inspiration
No visit to Laurel is complete without stopping at the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art. Founded in 1923, it’s Mississippi’s first art museum and continues to impress with rotating exhibitions and a permanent collection that includes American and European art, Native American baskets, Japanese woodblock prints, and more. It’s the perfect midday retreat for those looking to take in something truly inspiring while staying comfortably cool.
And this August, baseball fans are in for a special treat. On August 26, the museum debuts a new traveling exhibition: “Picturing America’s Pastime: Snapshots from the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum’s Collection.” On display through November 16 in the Lower-Level Galleries, the exhibit showcases some of the most iconic and enduring images from the National Baseball Hall of Fame’s expansive photographic archives. With over 350,000 historic photos spanning 150 years of the sport, this exhibition highlights the unique relationship between baseball and photography, two American legacies that grew up together.
Whether you’re escaping the heat or just want to soak in some Southern charm without breaking a sweat, Laurel has plenty of cool corners waiting to be discovered. Come for the air conditioning, stay for the style, stories, and sweet tea.
