The Pine Belt region boasts a variety of tourism related events, locations and programs. From large outdoor festivals, to one of the only two zoo's in the state - the Pine Belt has activities that appeal to anyone's preference.

HATTIESBURG - Hattiesburg is home to approximately 50,000 citizens who are proud to call this piney-wood location home. Hattiesburg has outdoor adventure with state parks and trails, unique shopping and dining options, quality museums and attractions and so much more. Below are some places of interest to note in Hattiesburg. For more detailed information about tourism in Hattiesburg, visit www.visithattie.com.

Hattiesburg Zoo

Located in the heart of Hattiesburg, this 12-acre zoo is home to lemurs, llamas, macaws, monkeys, prairie dogs and tigers. Monkeys, zebras, oryx and ostrich live in the zoo's African Veldt. Visitors can ride the Kamper Park and Southern Railroad, a miniature train that runs on a half-mile track through the zoo. Nominal admission fee.

Longleaf Trace

Enjoy biking, walking, outdoor photography, bird watching and many other outdoor activities on 39 miles of historic railway converted into a beautiful, paved, recreational, nature trail. A 23 mile equestrian trail parallels the paved trail. The Longleaf Trace is a Rails to Trails conservancy project.

African American Military History Museum

The all new African American Military History Museum is located inside America’s only remaining, original African American USO Club. This landmark building contains more than 150 years of African American military history including hundreds of artifacts, photos and tributes to the history of African Americans who served this nation in the Armed Forces.

LAUREL - Laurel is host to a variety of annual festivals, some of which take place in historic downtown Laurel. Other features of Laurel include great shopping, dining and golfing. Below are some places of interest to note in Laurel.

Lauren Rogers Museum of Art

Opened in 1923, the Museum draws approximately 32,000 visitors each year from across the nation with its outstanding collections of European and American art, Native American baskets, British Georgian silver, and Japanese woodblock prints, as well as an extensive art history library. The Lauren Rogers Museum of Art offers visitors an enjoyable artistic experience in the Museum Galleries, the Museum Library and the Museum Shop.

Landrum's Homestead and Village

Landrum's Country Homestead and Village is a re-creation of a late 1800's settlement nestled in a beautiful landscaped setting covering 10-acres of lush pecan trees, streams, and southern foliage. Landrum's Homestead and Village is known as "A Living History Museum". History comes to life with over 50 buildings and displays nestled in a quiet, beautifully landscaped setting. For more information call (601) 649-2546 or www.landrums.com. Tour buses are welcome.