Exploring Mississippi's Gulf Coast: Hidden Gems Beyond the Beach
Cool Places on Mississippi Gulf Coast You Might Not Know
Exploring Mississippi’s Gulf Coast reveals a side of the shoreline that goes far beyond sun and sand. While the beaches are a major draw, the region is also home to charming towns, rich history and unique cultural experiences that make every visit unforgettable. These hidden gems offer something special for travellers looking to see more than the waves.
From vibrant art scenes and historic districts to scenic nature trails and local flavours, the Gulf Coast is full of surprises waiting to be discovered. Step off the beach and into a world of character, where every stop adds depth to your coastal adventure.
1. Walter Anderson Museum of Art, Ocean Springs
The notable 20th-century painter’s work is on display
Categorías: Historia, Parejas
Get a taste for the coastal art of Mississippi at the Walter Anderson Museum of Art in Ocean Springs. The art featured here includes the work of namesake Walter Inglis Anderson and artists like him. Anderson’s work spanned from painting to sculpture to ceramics and even writing, mostly surrounding his connection to nature. Visit The Little Room to see Anderson’s floor-to-ceiling murals that went unseen during his life.
After your time experiencing the transformative works of art, head to The Traveler, behind the museum. The coffee shop was designed with Anderson’s artwork in mind and serves as an immersive contemporary art exhibit. Grab a cup of coffee, a pastry and take in the art around you.
Dirección: 510 Washington Ave, Ocean Springs, MS 39564, USA
Horario: Monday–Saturday from 11 am to 5 pm, Sunday from 1 pm to 5 pm
Teléfono: +1 228-872-3164
Walter Anderson Museum of Art, Ocean Springs
2. TrainTastic Railroad Museum, Gulfport
An immersive experience for the young and young-at-heart
Categorías: Historia, Familias
Whether or not you’re a train enthusiast, it’s still fun to marvel at all that the TrainTastic Railroad Museum has to offer. After all, it’s the world’s largest model train museum. This Gulfport locale is ideal for the whole family. Kids, especially, will find a lot to love and learn about as the models transport them to different landscapes throughout the USA. The museum also has a special S.T.E.M. lab to teach young conductors how trains operate.
TrainTastic is a great spot to visit while on holiday and for special occasions. It’s available to host birthday parties and other private events. During the winter holidays, enjoy this outdoor winter wonderland, featuring millions of lights and a magical outdoor train ride.
Dirección: 615 Pass Rd, Gulfport, MS 39501, USA
Horario: Hours vary by season
Teléfono: +1 228-284-5731
TrainTastic Railroad Museum, Gulfport
3. Alice Moseley Folk Art Museum, Bay St. Louis
Inside the Historic L&N Train Depot
Categorías: Historia, Asequible
The Alice Moseley Folk Art Museum displays the quaint work of Alice Moseley. The self-taught painter moved to Mississippi shortly after getting married, but wouldn’t start painting until later in her life, in her mid-60s. Her paintings of landscapes and homes depict a surreal sense of Americana. Ultimately, she became a prize-winning, acclaimed painter with works that live on in her museum.
After enjoying the Alice Moseley Folk Art Museum, see what else the L&N Train Depot has to offer. And don’t leave without buying an Alice Moseley print to commemorate your visit.
Dirección: 1928 Depot Way, Bay St Louis, MS 39520, USA
Horario: Monday–Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm (closed on Sundays)
Teléfono: +1 228-467-9223
Alice Moseley Folk Art Museum, Bay St. Louis
4. Grand Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve
A mix of landscapes unique to the coastal zone
Categorías: Aventuras, Fotos, Asequible
To truly appreciate Mississippi’s Gulf Coast landscape, visit Grand Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve. Experience its beauty on the Savanna Trail boardwalk, where you can spot birds, dragonflies and lizards, or explore the waterside via kayak or canoe. Stay in the bayou for the calmest water or head out into open water for a more thrilling experience.
The reserve relies on volunteer support to monitor what is going on in the ecosystem. From assembling birdboxes for eastern bluebirds to acting as an interpreter for stargazing events, the community is invited to participate in the locale’s critical scientific endeavours. Discover the natural wonders and contribute to conservation efforts at this beautiful reserve.
Dirección: 6005 Bayou Heron Rd, Moss Point, MS 39562, USA
Horario: Monday–Friday from 9 am to 5 pm (closed on Saturdays and Sundays)
Teléfono: +1 228-475-7047
Grand Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve
5. Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum, Biloxi
Centuries of Biloxi history
Categorías: Historia, Poco común
There is no denying that the Mississippi Gulf Coast was built on the industries related to its waterways, which is what makes the Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum so fascinating. It truly is a hidden gem. One glass-faced building houses 300 years of maritime culture. From historic photographs to Gulf-inspired artwork and stunning ships on display, there’s a lot to keep your attention.
Before you leave, take a moment to visit the Hurricane Camille Memorial outside. This serene stone monument solemnly lists the names of those who lost their lives in the devastating 1969 Category 5 storm. Pay your respects and reflect on the resilience of the community.
Dirección: 115 E 1st St, Biloxi, MS 39530, USA
Horario: Hours vary by season
Teléfono: +1 228-435-6320
Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum, Biloxi
6. Bay St. Louis Historic District
Historic Main Street, Sycamore Street and Washington Street
Categorías: Asequible, Fotos, Historia
Get the full holiday vibe by visiting Bay St. Louis Historic District. This is the definition of small coastal town charm. See the neighbourhood’s full personality when perusing the boutiques selling flowers, jewellery, seaside gifts and antiques. Stay for a barbecue lunch or grab an evening cocktail at an open-air bar that invites the warm, salty sea air in.
And, if you happen to be visiting Bay St. Louis Historic District during a holiday or one of its eclectic events (like the annual Dolly Parton look-alike contest), you won’t regret sticking around and celebrating with the locals.
Bay St. Louis Historic District
7. Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art, Biloxi
An architectural marvel designed by Frank Gehry
Categorías: Parejas, Fotos
The Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art pays tribute to an artistic legend of Mississippi: the potter, George Ohr. The other part of the museum’s namesake comes from the O’Keefe family, who were integral in providing funding to launch the museum. The museum highlights the best in modern sculpture, paintings and mixed media.
If you walk out of the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art feeling inspired, the institution also has plenty of interactive events where you can become the artist. Several days per week, the ceramics studio hosts classes suitable for adults and children. Discover for yourself how relaxing it can be to mould and morph clay at the wheel.
Dirección: 386 Beach Blvd, Biloxi, MS 39530, USA
Horario: Tuesday–Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm (closed on Mondays and Sundays)
Teléfono: +1 228-374-5547
Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art, Biloxi
8. Davis Bayou, Ocean Springs
A scenic part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore
Categorías: Asequible, Aventuras
The Davis Bayou is a hidden gem offering a quintessential outdoor experience on the Gulf Coast. The natural area features a large campground suitable for tents or RVs, with easy access to the beach.
Whether you come for the day or plan to spend multiple days at Davis Bayou, you won’t want to miss a hike on one of the several well-groomed trails. Nature’s Way Trail, for example, is a stunning scenic loop with views of the bayou and wildlife. For a short hike, take the Civilian Conservation Corps Spur Trail into the woodlands to a scenic overlook. Before you leave, stop into the William M. Colmer Visitor Center to learn more about the landscape you just explored.
Dirección: 3500 Park Rd, Ocean Springs, MS 39564, USA
Horario: Daily from 8 am to sunset
Teléfono: +1 228-230-4100
Davis Bayou, Ocean Springs
9. Pass Christian
Known to locals as ‘The Pass’
Categorías: Asequible, Fotos, Historia
Pass Christian is a hidden gem in Mississippi, oozing with coastal charm. In 2005, the town was all but destroyed during Hurricane Katrina but has rebounded and become an exalted Gulf Coast destination. The Historic District, specifically, saw significant damage, but several of the historic cottages have been restored to view along the Pass’s historic 2-mile (3.2-km) route.
What else should you do when visiting Pass Christian? Fishing for speckled trout or redfish with the help of an expert guide is a popular pastime. After a day on the boat, stop for a seafood dinner with all the flair of the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Choose a restaurant with a sunset view and enjoy a serene end to the day.
Pass Christian
10. Shepard State Park, Gautier
A serene camping spot with easy access to three coastal towns
Categorías: Fotos, Familias, Asequible
Connect with nature at Shepard State Park, along the Pascagoula River in Gautier. There are numerous ways to enjoy the scenery. Whether it’s cycling along a nature trail, letting the kids enjoy the playground, spending a long weekend camping or indulging in friendly competition on the disc golf course, there truly is something for everyone.
If you’re going to be camping at Shepard State Park, you can also easily enjoy Gautier and other nearby Gulf towns. For example, enjoy a round of golf at The Preserve Golf Club, designed by U.S. Open champion Jerry Pate and only a short drive from away from Shepard State Park.
Dirección: 1034 Graveline Rd, Gautier, MS 39553, USA
Teléfono: +1 228-497-2244
Shepard State Park, Gautier
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