Dive Into Mississippi’s Gulf Coast

Let’s hit the road and escape to Mississippi’s Gulf Coast, where you’ll find excellent restaurants and museums, charming downtowns, and thrilling shopping experiences at every turn.

Darling Downtowns

Enjoy dozens of shops and restaurants in Bay St. Louis and Pass Christian. From bustling main streets and thriving art communities to scenic historic districts, these can’t-miss destinations are fun for the whole family. Book a room at the gorgeous Pearl Hotel, a luxurious boutique property within walking distance of many Bay St. Louis treasures.

In Gulfport, visitors are treated to plenty of lively attractions. Beachgoers and history buffs will appreciate the short ferry ride to Ship Island, home to Fort Massachusetts. Public art, including murals in Fishbone Alley and sculptures scattered throughout the city, adds to Gulfport’s appeal. Travel further east to Biloxi and Ocean Springs for world-class casinos and a bevy of talented artists and craftsmen.

 

Shopper’s Paradise

As you stroll down Washington Avenue in Ocean Springs, you’ll discover independent boutiques like Hillyer House. This 52-year-old shop boasts a collection of American-made goods—from candles and tableware to home goods and framed art—emphasizing regional artisans. Across town, visit the acclaimed Shearwater Pottery studio for stunning handcrafted pieces inspired by coastal flora and fauna. Browse the showroom’s one-of-a-kind dishes, vases, and decorative tiles, all made on-site since 1928.

You can’t put your toes in the sand without a good read, so be sure to pick up a book from Pass Christian Books. Their selection of local and national authors will please any beachside bookworm. The shop also houses the Cat Island Coffeehouse and boasts an incredible harbor view.

Local Flavor

Relish seafood dishes with Cajun and Creole flair at Bacchus on the Beach, which overlooks the Pass Christian Harbor. For a casual beachside meal, pull up a seat at contest-winning Sea Level. For classic po’boys, Trapani’s Eatery in Bay St. Louis is ideal, or settle in at the Mockingbird Café for coffee and brunch. Gulfport yields family-friendly Chandeleur Brewing Company, where brewmaster Katie Turner serves up house-made beers and seltzers, perfect for a sunny day at the beach. Treat yourself to something special by reserving a table at Thorny Oyster. Located at the Pearl Hotel, Chef Jeffrey Hansell’s menu is a love letter to the Gulf, including sautéed blue crab claws, tuna crudo, and heartier options such as their Bouillabaisse and Stuffed Whole Flounder.

Immersive Museums

When it reopened in August 2020, the Mississippi Aquarium in Gulfport became a sign of rebirth along the waterfront. The expansive facility’s freshwater exhibit features more than 500 species, including native bottlenose dolphins. The George Ohr-O’Keef Musem of Art in Biloxi is a loving tribute to the “Mad Potter of Biloxi,” hosting artists-in-residence and local working studio space. View more than 2,000 interesting objects at the Walter Anderson Museum of Art. In addition to its paintings, drawing, murals, block prints, and more, the space doubles as a community center where local artists and enthusiasts can thrive. The Mississippi Coast Model Railroad Museum in North Station also promises fun for the whole family. Kids and kids-at-heart will go wide-eyed over the massive collection of LEGO® dioramas and myriad interactive displays.

Start your road trip today when you Visit Mississippi!