You’ve probably seen Laurel on your TV screen. You know the vibe—Ben and Erin Napier restoring old craftsman homes, the golden afternoon light hitting the pine trees, and that feeling that maybe, just maybe, small-town America isn't dead yet. Because of that Home Town magic, people flock here. They want the mercantile experience. They want the southern grit and the hospitality.
But here is the thing.
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Most travelers make the mistake of thinking they have to stay in a tiny, overpriced boutique cottage to "get" the Laurel experience. Honestly? That's not always the case. If you want a consistent shower, a breakfast that doesn't cost $25, and a bed that doesn't feel like it was made in 1920, the Hampton Inn & Suites Laurel MS is actually the smartest play in town.
The Location "Secret" Nobody Mentions
Most people think this hotel is out in the middle of nowhere because it’s right off I-59. It’s not. It is basically the gateway to the historic district.
You’re about five minutes from downtown. Seriously. If you hit the lights right, you can be standing in the Laurel Mercantile Co. or staring at the Scotsman General Store before your coffee even gets cold. It’s located at 1509 Jefferson Street. That's a straight shot into the heart of the city.
The beauty of staying here is the ease. Parking in downtown Laurel during a filming week or a festival? It's a nightmare. Absolute chaos. At the Hampton, you park for free, you’ve got plenty of space, and you aren't maneuvering a rental car through narrow residential streets filled with film crews and tourists taking selfies.
What the Rooms are Actually Like
Let’s be real. It’s a Hampton. You aren't getting hand-carved mahogany headboards from Ben Napier’s shop. But you are getting what matters when you’ve been walking on pavement all day.
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The hotel was built in 2009, but it doesn't feel like it. They recently went through a major renovation—think 2024/2025 updates—so the color schemes are fresh. No more "early 2000s beige" gloom. It’s crisp.
The room options generally break down like this:
- The King Studio Suite: This is the one you want. It feels more like a small apartment than a hotel room. It’s got a wet bar, a microwave, and a fridge. If you’re staying more than one night, the extra breathing room is worth the few extra bucks.
- Standard Double Queens: Perfect for families. Or if you’re traveling with a friend and neither of you wants to kick the other in your sleep.
- The King Study: A bit more compact, but has a nice desk area if you’re one of those people who "works from anywhere" (we see you).
One thing guests consistently rave about in 2026 reviews is the water pressure. It sounds like a small thing until you’ve stayed in a historic B&B where the shower is a sad, lukewarm trickle. Here? It’s a power wash.
The Breakfast Situation
Free breakfast is the ultimate travel hack. Honestly, the "Hampton Breakfast" is a bit of a legend in the mid-range hotel world.
They do the rotating hot items—eggs, sausage, and those little breakfast potatoes. But the real winner is the waffle maker. There is something deeply satisfying about making your own waffle while half-asleep.
Pro Tip: If you’re trying to eat like a local, save some room. You’re only minutes away from Pearl’s Diner. Pearl was featured on Home Town, and her fried chicken is basically a religious experience. The Hampton breakfast gets you through the morning, but Pearl’s gets you through the soul.
Amenities You’ll Actually Use
Most hotels brag about their "business center," which is usually just a dusty PC from 2012 in a closet. The Hampton Inn & Suites Laurel MS keeps it updated.
- The Indoor Pool: Mississippi is hot. Even in the "winter," it can be humid and sticky. Having an indoor pool means the kids can burn off energy without getting a sunburn or being chased by giant Southern mosquitoes.
- The 24-Hour Gym: It’s basic, but it’s clean. Most people don't use it, which is great for you because you’ll probably have the treadmill to yourself.
- Pet Friendly: This is a big one. A lot of the fancy rentals downtown have strict "no pets" policies. The Hampton is cool with your dog (usually for a fee around $75), which makes it a top choice for road trippers.
Is It Worth It?
Let's talk money. In 2026, Laurel has become a "destination." Prices for Airbnbs in the historic district have skyrocketed. You’re looking at $250 to $400 a night for a "renovated cottage."
The Hampton usually hovers between $130 and $190, depending on the season and whether there is an event in town. You’re getting a clean, modern room, a pool, and free breakfast for half the price of a "thematic" stay.
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It’s about value. You spend the money you saved on a nice dinner at The Loft on Central or a slab of wood from the Scotsman shop.
Navigating the "Home Town" Experience from the Hotel
Since you’re staying at the Hampton Inn & Suites Laurel MS, you need a game plan. Don't just wing it.
- Morning: Hit the hotel breakfast early. 6:30 AM early.
- Early Afternoon: Drive the 1.5 miles into downtown. Park near the Amtrak station.
- The Loop: Walk from the Scotsman General Store to the Laurel Mercantile. Stop by the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art—it’s the oldest art museum in the state and it is genuinely stunning.
- The Hidden Gem: Check out "The Lucky Rabbit" in nearby Hattiesburg if you have time, but in Laurel, don't miss the murals. There are dozens of them now, and they make for the best photos.
One thing to keep in mind: Laurel is a "Sunday-Monday" quiet town. A lot of the local spots are closed on those days. If you’re staying at the Hampton during the early part of the week, you might find yourself eating at the nearby chains like Chili’s or Logan’s Roadhouse. They’re fine, but they aren't "Laurel." Check the hours of the local bistros before you commit to your dates.
Actionable Insights for Your Stay
If you are booking the Hampton Inn & Suites Laurel MS, keep these three things in mind to make the trip actually work:
- Ask for a High Floor: The hotel is near the highway. It’s well-insulated, but the higher you are, the quieter it is. The 4th floor is the sweet spot.
- Join Hilton Honors: Even if you never stay at a Hilton again, the free Wi-Fi is faster for members, and you can use the Digital Key on your phone. No fumbling with plastic cards that stop working if they get near your phone's magnet.
- Check the Event Calendar: If the "Loblolly Festival" is happening, book months in advance. The Hampton is the first place to sell out because it's the most reliable spot for families.
The Hampton Inn & Suites Laurel MS isn't trying to be a boutique experience. It’s trying to be a reliable, comfortable, and affordable home base for people who want to explore one of the most charming towns in the South. It succeeds. You get the sleep you need so you can spend your energy (and money) on the actual town.
Next Steps for Your Trip
Check the current room availability for your specific dates, as Laurel’s "peak season" has expanded significantly due to the town's TV popularity. If you're traveling with a group, call the front desk directly to inquire about their suites, as these often aren't fully listed on third-party booking sites. After securing your room, map out a walking route from the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art to the historic district to ensure you hit the best photo spots before the midday crowds arrive.