Welcome to Ben Napier's Hometown: A Tour of Laurel, Mississippi

Hey there, fellow explorers! Today, we're diving into the charming world of Laurel, Mississippi, a place you might recognize as the hometown of the talented and charismatic Ben Napier from the HGTV show "Home Town." If you're a fan of Ben and Erin's incredible transformations, you're in for a treat as we explore the city that's captured their hearts and inspired their incredible home renovations. Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and home town: ben napier.

Laurel: A Blast from the Past

Laurel, Mississippi, is a city that's proud of its history, and it's not hard to see why. With its roots tracing back to the 1800s, this city has a rich tapestry of stories woven into its very fabric. As you stroll through the historic downtown district, you'll feel like you've stepped back in time, with beautifully preserved buildings and a small-town charm that's oh-so-inviting. Laurel's historic district is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, so you know you're in for a treat when it comes to architecture and history.

The Heart of Laurel: Downtown

Downtown Laurel is the city's beating heart, and it's here that you'll find the essence of what makes this place so special. The vibrant downtown scene is filled with independently owned shops, restaurants, and businesses, each with its own unique story to tell. From the moment you set foot in this charming part of town, you'll feel the love and care that the community has poured into its revitalization.

One of the standout features of downtown Laurel is the Meridian Street District, a bustling area that's home to a mix of historic buildings and new developments. This is where you'll find the iconic "Home Town" storefront, where Ben and Erin first set up shop and began their incredible transformations. Even if you're not in the market for a new home, it's worth stopping by to see where the magic all began.

Laurel's Rich History

Laurel has a fascinating history that's deeply rooted in the American South. The city played a significant role in the Civil War, and you can still visit historic sites like the Brandon House, a beautiful antebellum plantation that's now a museum. Laurel also has strong ties to the railroad industry, and you can learn all about the city's rail history at the Laurel Railroad Museum.

Ben Napier's Laurel: A Local's Perspective

Now that you've got a taste of what makes Laurel so special, let's dive into what it's like to call this city home, according to none other than Ben Napier himself. As a lifelong resident of Laurel, Ben has a unique perspective on what makes his hometown so incredible.

The People of Laurel

For Ben, it's the people of Laurel that truly set the city apart. "The people here are what make Laurel so special," he says. "Everyone knows everyone, and there's a real sense of community. It's the kind of place where people look out for each other, and that's something really special."

This tight-knit community spirit is evident throughout the city, from the way local businesses support each other to the way neighbors come together to help one another out. It's this sense of camaraderie that inspired Ben and Erin to start their home renovation business in the first place, and it's what keeps them going today.

Laurel's Natural Beauty

While Laurel is known for its historic architecture, it's also a city that's deeply connected to nature. The city is home to several beautiful parks and green spaces, including the Trustmark Park, a scenic spot that's perfect for a picnic or a leisurely stroll. And with the Piney Woods just a short drive away, Laurel is the perfect base for exploring the great outdoors.

Ben is a big fan of the natural beauty that Laurel has to offer. "I love being able to get out into the woods and explore," he says. "There's something really special about being surrounded by nature, and Laurel has so much of it to offer."

Experience Laurel Like a Local

If you're planning a visit to Laurel, here are some top tips from Ben himself to help you experience the city like a true local.

1. 1. Start your day with breakfast at The Loft: This charming café is a Laurel institution, and it's the perfect place to fuel up before a day of exploring. Plus, you never know who you might run into – Ben and Erin are known to stop by from time to time!
2. 2. Shop local: Laurel is home to a fantastic selection of independently owned shops, so make sure to support the local economy by picking up a few souvenirs. The Laurel Mercantile, of course, is a must-visit, but don't miss out on other gems like Southern Antiques and The Pink Flamingo.
3. 3. Grab lunch at The Knight Butcher: This family-owned butcher shop has been serving up delicious sandwiches and other treats since
4. 1935. It's the perfect spot to grab a bite and soak up some local flavor.
5. 4. Take a self-guided tour: Laurel is a city that's meant to be explored on foot, so grab a map and set out to discover some of the city's hidden gems. The Laurel Visitors Center can provide you with a self-guided tour that will take you to some of the city's most iconic spots.
6. 5. Catch a show at the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art: This beautiful museum is home to an impressive collection of art, and it's the perfect place to spend an evening. Check their website for upcoming events and exhibitions.

Laurel: A City on the Rise

Laurel has come a long way in recent years, and it's clear that the city is on the rise. From the revitalization of the downtown district to the influx of new businesses and residents, Laurel is a city that's full of potential and promise.

Ben Napier is quick to point out that Laurel's success is no accident. "This city is what it is because of the people who live here," he says. "We've all come together to make Laurel a place that we're proud to call home, and that's something really special."

So, if you're looking for a city that's steeped in history, overflowing with natural beauty, and brimming with small-town charm, look no further than Laurel, Mississippi. Who knows, you might just fall in love with this incredible place – and maybe even catch a glimpse of Ben and Erin in the process!