What began as a lumber port has transformed into one of Mississippi’s thriving getaway destinations fit with sandy white beaches and casinos lining the coast. When you’re not relaxing on the beach, this travel hotspot is guaranteed to keep you active and entertained. So plan that future gateway (or just live vicariously) through the information below.
Cool Off
With summer temperatures reaching 90 degrees, cool off at Jones Park. Soak up some sun at the beach or refresh among the misting water at the zero-depth entry splash pad. Further inland, slip and slide at Gulf Islands Waterpark, where you can test your thrill-o-meter on the Gulf Coast’s first water rollercoaster. When your stomach is churning, let it settle on the tube slides or splash about the watery playground.
Escape to Paradise
Take a mini-adventure exploring wild trails, an historic fort and Mississippi’s finest beaches at Ship Island, just 12 miles off the coast of Gulfport. Hop on the Ship Island ferry and escape the hustle and bustle of the city to recharge with a day of tranquility. Watch the sun setting while enjoying a romantic dinner aboard the North Star dinner cruise. Cast your line on an action-packed fishing excursion, or you can find Jet Ski and paddleboard rentals along the beachfront.
Enrich Young Minds
Give little ones the time of their lives at the Lynn Meadows Discovery Center. Your kids and their imaginations will run freely, with more than 15,000 square feet of child-sized exhibits that will get their hands dirty, learning about history, careers and science. Feeling brave? Journey to the second floor on the Super Colossal Climbing Structure or head outdoors to play in the Tree House Village atop 100-year-old live oaks. Get up close and personal with a bottlenose dolphin and say hello to other sea creatures in the Discovery Room pools at the Institute for Marine Mammal Studies. Check out classic cars at the Busted Wrench Garage Museum and take home a souvenir to commemorate your unforgettable visit.
Fill Your Belly
Gulfport is as good as it gets when it comes to Southern-style cooking and fresh seafood. Savor lip-smacking cuisine while enjoying breathtaking views of Bayou Bernard at the Blow Fly Inn (1201 Washington Ave., Gulfport). It’s been a local favorite since the 1960s, serving up favorites such as crab-stuffed flounder, po-boy sandwiches and fried green tomatoes. Be warned—every dish comes topped with a small plastic fly commemorating the restaurant’s mascot. Tear into a heaping mound of barbecued pork, chicken or brisket while listening to live blues at Murky Waters BBQ (1320 27th Ave., Gulfport) . Whether you go for the fried gulf shrimp or Kansas City-style burnt ends, you’re bound to leave with your mouth watering and ears ringing for more.
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