TRAVEL | Laurel & Jones County Welcome Visitors with a New Season of "Home Town" HGTV

Explore Historic Charm, Locally-Owned Shops, and Iconic Sites Featured on the Hit HGTV Show

LAUREL, MISS.– Fans of HGTV’s hit series Home Town have even more reason to visit Laurel and Jones County, Mississippi this winter. The highly anticipated ninth season premieres Sunday, December 29, 2024, at 8 p.m. ET/7 p.m. CT on HGTV and streams on Max the next day. Featuring the beloved duo Ben and Erin Napier, the new season continues their inspiring work transforming homes and revitalizing their hometown.

Laurel has become a must-visit destination for fans eager to explore the charm, history, and vibrant energy showcased in the series. From tours of historic homes to local dining and unique shops, Laurel and Jones County offers visitors the perfect getaway to feel immersed in the show’s magic.

A great way to begin exploring is with a golf cart tour through the city. Tour operators like Bolton Home Town Tours and Laurel Home Tours provide curated experiences that showcase homes featured on Home Town, historic landmarks, and the downtown murals that celebrate Laurel’s vibrant, “unexpected” spirit, such as:

 - Southern Food and Local FavoritesFor a taste of Laurel, visitors can dine at locally owned restaurants serving classic Southern fare. Home Town fans will remember Miss Pearl from early episodes—her beloved restaurant, Pearl’s Diner, serves up fried chicken, catfish fillets, and pork chops with all the fixings, making it a can’t-miss stop. Laurel and Jones County offer over 100 restaurants from international cuisine and seafood to southern cooking and "Instagramable” dessert spots.

 - Shopping with Home Town CharmLaurel’s downtown shopping scene is a great place to feel connected to the show. Fans can browse the Laurel Mercantile, the flagship store owned by the Napiers and their friends, or visit Scotsman General Store, where Ben’s Woodshop features a viewing window for curious onlookers. At Erin Napier’s Scent Library, visitors can explore custom fragrances that tell stories of her life and the region’s character.

 - Stay in StyleFrom cozy bed and breakfasts to well-appointed hotels and short-term rentals, Laurel offers accommodations to suit every traveler’s preference. Visitors will find plenty of options for a relaxing stay while they explore this Southern gem, and may even see some of their favorite Home Town renovations ready for rent.

“We are so proud of the spotlight Home Town has brought to Laurel and Jones County, and we’re truly grateful for the visitors who come to experience our community firsthand,” said Amanda Roll, tourism director for Laurel & Jones County. “Each guest means so much to us—whether they’re exploring our historic downtown, dining in our local restaurants, attending events, or shopping in our small businesses, they help support and celebrate what makes our town so special.”

To plan your trip and learn more about all Laurel and Jones County have to offer, visit visitjones.com.

Laurel and Jones County, Mississippi is a destination that offers the unexpected whether visiting for a day or a week. From exploring the great outdoors to indulging in local cuisine at restaurants, there's no shortage of things to do. VisitJones.com is the go-to resource for planning the perfect getaway, with an interactive tool to map out attractions, events, dining, and more.