Day Trips & Weekend Getaways
Best Day Trips & Weekend Getaways from Laurel, MS
Laurel sits in the Pine Belt with access to the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art, the Hoyt Lakes, and the Chickasawhay River.
The Lauren Rogers Museum and the Chickasawhay River offer culture and nature in the Pine Belt.
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or browse all12 destinations near Laurel
Linwood Haunted Trail
Philadelphia, MS 39350
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · well rated (4.8 stars) · 1 hr 28 min from Laurel · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
The District Green
Biloxi, MS 39530
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · well rated (4.8 stars) · 1 hr 44 min from Laurel · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Experience (The MAX)
Meridian, MS 39301
Why this destination?
Recommended because: History destination · highly rated (4.8 by 0.2k+ visitors) · 55 min from Laurel · fits $10 - $25 budget
Best time to visit: Year-round. Indoor museums and historic sites are great rainy-day options.
Cypress Swamp
Canton, MS 39046
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 0.5k+ visitors) · 1 hr 57 min from Laurel · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Gulfport Pteranodons
Gulfport, MS 39503
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · well rated (4.7 stars) · 1 hr 32 min from Laurel · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Mississippi Petrified Forest
Flora, MS 39071
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.6 by 1.0k+ visitors) · 1 hr 56 min from Laurel · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Beauvoir House
Biloxi, MS 39531
Why this destination?
Recommended because: History destination · highly rated (4.6 by 0.6k+ visitors) · 1 hr 49 min from Laurel · fits $10 - $25 budget
Best time to visit: Year-round. Indoor museums and historic sites are great rainy-day options.
Bonita Lakes Park
Meridian, MS 39301
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.6 by 1.5k+ visitors) · 56 min from Laurel · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Ocean Adventures Marine Park
Gulfport, MS 39503
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Family destination · highly rated (4.6 by 1.3k+ visitors) · 1 hr 40 min from Laurel · fits $20 - $60 budget
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Bamahenge
AL 36530, USA
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.5 by 1.0k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 50 min from Laurel · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Roosevelt State Park
Morton, MS 39117
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · well rated (4.4 stars) · 1 hr 22 min from Laurel · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Merrehope
Meridian, MS 39301
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · well rated (4.3 stars) · 55 min from Laurel · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best day trips from Laurel, MS?
The best day trips from Laurel include state parks, historic towns, scenic drives, wineries, and outdoor recreation. Our page shows top-rated destinations with real drive times, Google ratings, and budget estimates so you can pick the right trip for your schedule and interests.
How far should I drive for a day trip from Laurel?
Most great day trips from Laurel are between 1 and 3 hours away. Under an hour gets you local parks and nearby towns. Two to three hours opens up state parks, lakefront destinations, and small cities worth a full day of exploring.
What are cheap things to do near Laurel?
Many of the best day trips near Laurel are free or low-cost. State parks, hiking trails, scenic drives, and small-town Main Streets are all great options. Check the budget estimates on each destination card above to plan a trip that fits your wallet.
What is the best time of year for day trips from Laurel?
Spring and fall are ideal for most destinations near Laurel, with mild weather and smaller crowds. Summer is great for beaches and water activities. Winter works well for indoor attractions like museums, historic sites, and food-focused trips. Check the seasonal notes on each card for specific timing tips.
Are there weekend getaways near Laurel?
Yes. Many destinations within 2-4 hours of Laurel make excellent overnight trips. Look for spots with multiple activities, good dining, and nearby lodging. Use the "Plan This Trip" button on any card to start building an itinerary, or check our drive-time pages for destinations at specific distances. If you need a car, compare rental options to find the best deal.
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