10 Things to Do in Gulfport That You Shouldn't Miss

November 1, 2017 Alice Mieles

Gulfport, Mississippi, one half of the Gulfport-Biloxi section of the Gulf Coast, was very nearly destroyed during Hurricane Katrina. The city has been gradually reconstructed, and the surrounding natural areas have been rebuilding themselves as well. Visit the barrier islands that form Gulf Islands National Seashore, a parkland along the Mississippi Sound. A ferry runs from Gulf Port to Ship Island, with unspoiled white beaches and tidal pools, boardwalks and historic sites to explore.
Restaurants in Gulfport

1. Lynn Meadows Discovery Center

246 Dolan Ave, Gulfport, MS 39507-1310 +1 228-897-6039
Excellent
79%
Good
16%
Satisfactory
3%
Poor
1%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 230 reviews

Lynn Meadows Discovery Center

Located in a 1915 schoolhouse, under the large live oaks, just blocks from the beach in Gulfport, MS, Lynn Meadows Discovery Center is a special place for children and their grown-ups. Inside, 15,000 square feet of hands-on exhibits encourage fun, learning and creativity. Discover different cultures at Celebrate the World We Share, board the train at Dolan Avenue Depot, and create a mini masterpiece at our art studio, Art Knows Anything Goes. Outside, oak-covered acres provide more space to let the imagination run wild. Play house in the trees, tap a tune in the outdoor musical garden, and explore the tiny town of Kids Street. Lynn Meadows Discovery Center is honored to be a recipient of the National Medal for Museum and Library Services, which recognizes exceptional contributions to the community.

Reviewed By Ace750 - Diamondhead, Mississippi

We took my grandchildren (ages 3 and 5). They loved it, and there were activities that both enjoyed. Our first visit was on a free night, and it was very crowded. Our second visit was in the afternoon, and it was much less crowded, which made it much more enjoyable for all of us.

2. Friendship Oak

730 E Beach Blvd, Southern Miss Gulf Park campus, Long Beach, MS 39560-6259 +1 228-865-4500
Excellent
66%
Good
27%
Satisfactory
5%
Poor
2%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 98 reviews

Friendship Oak

Over 500 years old, this oak tree is allegedly Mississippi's oldest and most beautiful tree.

Reviewed By mwalkerms - Olive Branch, Mississippi

I'm a fan of the beautiful southern live oaks that live throughout the coastal region of South Mississippi, so a visit to this historic tree was necessary stop. Located on the Gulf Coast campus of The University of Southern Mississippi, it is easily accessible and worth seeing. Friendship Oak keeps her majestic vigil on the Gulf of Mexico, a vigil that dates back to 1487. It has seen the history of the Mississippi Gulf Coast and of America unfold, while surviving the force of many storms... including Hurricane Katrina.

3. The Institute for Marine Mammal Studies

10801 Dolphin Ln, Gulfport, MS 39503-3671 +1 228-896-9182
Excellent
80%
Good
15%
Satisfactory
3%
Poor
1%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 303 reviews

The Institute for Marine Mammal Studies

The Institute for Marine Mammal Studies (IMMS) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization established in 1984 for the purposes of public education, conservation, and research on marine mammals and sea turtles in the wild and under human care. IMMS has been an active participant of the National Stranding Network since its inception. IMMS is the premier stranding organization in the Mississippi-Louisiana-Alabama region of the Gulf Coast with the capability and expertise to care for sick and injured marine mammals and sea turtles. IMMS serves as an important educational resource for the Mississippi Gulf Coast, incorporating programs for conservation, education and research of marine mammals, sea turtles, and their environment. IMMS's Ocean Adventures Marine Park is open for public tours year-round, reservations are not required. The Park is open seven days a week from 9:00AM to 4:00PM, but the last Park admission is at 2:00PM.

Reviewed By Brandy M - Louisiana

We had visiting IMM twice before, but this was the 1st visit since they added the Ocean Adventure side. This is a small facility in comparison, but there are several activities. We started by feeding the parakeets. The feed sticks are an additional cost ($1.50 per stick). They give you rules on how to feed and be in the Enclosure. If you don’t adhere they will take your feed stick. For instance we were told not to feed birds on the ground. My son (7) tried to get a bird on the feed stick. The bird was on the ground the employee took his feed stick. I know he didn’t follow the rules ! Just make sure your children don’t get caught up in the experience and excitement and loose their turn.
The dolphins are beautiful and you really get a great view. The shows are kind of short but very cute. I would like to come back and do the actual dolphin encounter.

4. Kelinci Spa & Boutique

305 Church Ave, Long Beach, MS 39560-6035 +1 228-284-1675
Excellent
93%
Good
7%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 13 reviews

Kelinci Spa & Boutique

Welcome! We invite you to enjoy the first Day Spa and Bed and Breakfast on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. You will enjoy the Southern hospitality as well as have access to our full service Day Spa! Enjoy amenities such as Men and Women locker rooms which will include access to a Jacuzzi and dry sauna. Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast in our beautiful atrium before going out and exploring the wonderful Mississippi Gulf Coast! Or stay and book an appointment for one of our full range of services including massage, facials, couples massages, body treatments, manicures, pedicures, salon services, make-up application, and spray tanning. We promise to provide a relaxing and comforting experience from the moment you step into Kelinci Spa Bed & Breakfast. We are one block from the gorgeous sugar-white sand beach and walking distance to beautiful downtown Long Beach with lots of quaint shops and restaurants.

Reviewed By mimijudi - New Smyrna Beach, FL

Had a wonderful experience. Staff was friendly and professional. I had Brian who gave a wonderful massage and the owner gave me my facial. Both were one of the best I had. Definitely stop by.

5. Jones Park

2250 Jones Park Drive, Gulfport, MS 39501 +1 228-868-5881
Excellent
56%
Good
37%
Satisfactory
6%
Poor
1%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 91 reviews

Jones Park

Reviewed By Teresa L - Perkinston, MS

This is an awesome light show and so conveniently set up. Park and pay at the 20th Ave/Hwy 90 parking garage. This ticket gets you a ride to Jones Park and admission to the festival. You can ride a trolley to the end of the display and walk back or just walk the whole route. Midway there are some carnival rides and food for purchase. The pavilion at the entrance has a train ride for kids and Santa, too.

6. Gulfport Premium Outlets

10000 Factory Shop Blvd, Gulfport, MS 39503-4231 +1 228-867-6100
Excellent
36%
Good
42%
Satisfactory
19%
Poor
2%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 175 reviews

Gulfport Premium Outlets

Find more than 70 outlet stores at Gulfport Premium Outlets. Find impressive savings at Ann Taylor, Banana Republic, BCBG Max Azria, Chico's, Coach, Gap Outlet, J.Crew, Nautica, Nike, Polo Ralph Lauren, Talbots, Tommy Hilfiger, Under Armour and more.

Reviewed By garygeorge3 - Lightwater Uk

Travelling to NOLA, we stopped here wanting to check out the Bass store. Good news and bad news here, the good there was incredible discounting, the bad, the store was about to permanently close its doors. A good variety of other well known stores, but with the crowds his thin, one wonders how many others may follow.

7. Fishing Frenzy Charters

720 S Cleveland Ave, Long Beach, MS 39560-6271
Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 6 reviews

Fishing Frenzy Charters

deal sea fishin in the Gulf of Mexico!!! WE CATCH FISH!!!

Reviewed By caribbeantravelcielo - New Orleans, Louisiana

We had booked a fishing charter with another local charter in Gulfport, MS, but on the morning of the charter, we were contacted by them to say they were having issues with the A/C on their boat. They then reached out to their friends with Fishing Frenzy and set us up on the same size boat to continue our fishing trip without interruption. We met Captain Barney and his crew at the Long Beach Harbor. It didn't take long and we were all set to leave for our trip. The day before, Captain Barney said it was a good fishing day with the charter catching quite a few large fish. We fished for 4 hours that day - we weren't as lucky as the charter the day before, but did catch a few to keep. Captain Barney even offered us to come back and try them again on another day/trip. The inside of the cabin was comfortable and a cool place to be to get out of the heat. We had an enjoyable time even though we didn't catch many, it was a great experience the crew were very nice and professional.

8. Beauvoir

2244 Beach Blvd, Biloxi, MS 39531-5023 +1 228-388-4400
Excellent
59%
Good
30%
Satisfactory
8%
Poor
2%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 868 reviews

Beauvoir

Home of Ex-Confederate President of the Confederate States of America where he lived his remaining 12 years of his life (post-war) and where he wrote "The Rise and Fall of the Confederate Government." Golf Carts are now available to rent. Guided tour of the home showing how life was lived by the President and his family and self guided grounds (Varina's Garden, Cemetery, and nature trail), Museum, separated into 3 sections: Rotating Gallery, Soldier's Exhibit, and President Davis Exhibit. Research Library including reference books to accommodate most genealogy research focused on the Civil War.

Reviewed By Jason L - Rockford, Illinois, United States

Great spot to hit if staying a day or two in Biloxi. Lots of room to walk around and see the offerings of the estate and library. Gift shop was well stocked with good stuff too. Very educational and lots to take in!

9. Island View Casino

3206 W Beach Blvd, Gulfport, MS 39501-1810 +1 877-774-8439
Excellent
39%
Good
34%
Satisfactory
16%
Poor
5%
Terrible
6%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 437 reviews

Island View Casino

Reviewed By dennis n

Stopped by casino a cou0le of times. Casino is always clean and attendants are very courteous. Every type of slot machine you could ask for is here. There are a number of restaurants here for all price ranges. Parking is large and very close to casino. A good time can be had

10. Busted Wrench Garage Museum

2311 29th St, Gulfport, MS 39501-6027 +1 228-617-6660
Excellent
69%
Good
22%
Satisfactory
8%
Poor
0%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 71 reviews

Busted Wrench Garage Museum

Reviewed By Walt324 - Oneonta, Alabama

Didn't know what to think about going to a museum named Busted Wrench Garage, but was I surprised! It was filled with the cars of my youth. An XK-E Jag, '65 Corvette Stingray, '55 T-Bird and numerous other vintage cars. Also other relics of the past. I left very impressed!

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