Smithsonian Magazine: “Visit Laurel in 2018!”

 

Smithsonian Magazine has published its list of the “Top 20 Small Towns to Visit in 2018” and a Pine Belt community made the cut.

Laurel, with a population of just over 18,000 residents, is on this year’s list.

The author cites the popularity of the hit HGTV series “Home Town,” which features a Laurel couple that renovates historic homes across the city, as a catalyst in the city’s recent revitalization.

Since the debut of the show, the author writes, “This Southern small town with big charm has taken off. Situated in southeast Mississippi’s Pine Belt, the former mill city and oil town is today known for its Oak-lined sidewalks, brick roadways and a splendid mix of innovative restaurants and specialty shops.”

Tourist destinations highlighted in the article include the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art, Laurel Little Theater, downtown eatery Cafe La Fleur and the annual Loblolly Festival, which is held in October.

“The momentum of downtown Laurel has been building for more than a decade,” Laurel Area Manager Chris Phillips said. “Everyone associated with the city, from local leadership, Laurel Main Street, the folks from Home Town and beyond, should be proud of this designation. Hopefully we’ll see an influx of visitors over the next few months because of this recognition.”

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