Things to do in Biloxi, Mississippi

Biloxi, officially known as the city of Biloxi in the American state of Mississippi, is called the Playground of the South. With its perfect location, Biloxi is city with many nuances and layers. It is a wonderful mix of history and a new world. Whether it is the line up of Casinos at Beach Boulevard or the white sands of ship Island; whether it is historic Beauvoir grounds or the many museums, Biloxi is said to be the fifth favourite beach vacation destination in USA and one of the most affordable cities in the state.

So when you are here, here’s a list of things to do in Biloxi in no particular order.

Biloxi – Points of Interest

Biloxi Lighthouse

The Biloxi Lighthouse is one of the first few cast-iron lighthouses ever built in the South and is one of the most well known landmarks associated with the city. It was erected in 1848 and operated by the locals including a team of female light-keepers. The post was adopted by the U.S. Coast Guard in 1939. Today this iconic tower stands as a strong symbol of resolve; one that endured the Hurricane Katrina Storm! One can get the most pleasant view of the Gulf Coast from the top of the Lighthouse. If you want to tour the lighthouse, remember that only 3 tours are operated daily in the morning at 9 a.m., 9.15 a.m. and 9.30 a.m.

Beauvoir

The retirement home of Confederate President Jefferson Davis, Beauvoir is a must-see for enthusiasts of the Civil War. Beauvoir was a residential home for many decades; before and after President Jefferson’s family moved into the estate; but today it sits as memorial in honour of its most famous resident and owner. On this 52 acre property, there is also a historic Confederate Cemetery, a Civil War Museum, a Presidential Library and a botanical garden. This site is a National Historic Landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Ship Island

At a distance of 12 miles off the city’s coast, Ship Island is a popular daytrip destination for families. Ship Island is the perfect place to spend a relaxing day on the beach. Don’t miss the free guided tour of Fort Massachusetts that was built to defend this coast after the war of 1812. You can take a ferry that docks on the north of the island, but if you are hoping to take a dip into the ocean you must go to the south side. Keep in mind that the walk from the ferry dock to the beach is quite strenuous. You could also take a boat ride to the island, and if you are lucky you may be able to spot some dolphins and stingrays.

Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum

Located on Point Cadet and near Gulf Marine State Park, the Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum was established in 1986 to educate the people about Biloxi’s maritime history and the important role it played for the city. The Museum was destroyed in 2005 by Hurricane Katrina and it took 9 years until it was completely restored and reopened to the public in the year 2014. There are various artefacts and many exhibits at the museum. A film and exhibit on Hurricane Katrina is a must-see; it features footage from interviews with survivors and live news reports of the devastation and it’s after effects.

Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art

For Fans of abstract art, the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art is a must-see. With its modern sculptures and ceramics, the museum showcases a permanent collection and some rotating collections from drawings and paintings, to photographs and pottery. George E. Ohr, the founder of the museum was fondly nicknamed the “Mad Potter of Biloxi” and you can see many of his pieces on display throughout the museum. The museum also has the Pleasant Reed Interpretive Centre on its premises, which gives you an insight about the life of African Americans in Mississippi in the years after the Civil war.

Biloxi’s Casinos

A major chunk of revenue from Biloxi comes from the city’s many Casinos. Casinos play a significant role in the city’s tourism and most of them are connected to major resorts within the city. Most casinos were damaged severely and destroyed completely when hurricane Katrina hit the city. Casinos are recognized as gaming spots in Biloxi with the most popular ones being the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Biloxi, The Beau Rivage Resort & Casino, Harrah’s Gulf Coast, and Treasure Bay Casino and Hotel. You can find everything, from roulette to table games; poker rooms to slots and even high-stakes card lounges.

Hurricane Katrina Memorial

Hurricane Katrina was perhaps the worst thing that happened to Biloxi in the last century. It took a huge toll on the city; not only did it damage and destroy a lot of the city’s infrastructure but also took hundreds of lives along the Gulf coast. This memorial is 12 foot tall, made of a black granite slab and was built in memory of all the people who died during the hurricane. It just takes five minutes to view it and is a great way to pay respects to those who perished in the natural tragedy.

Biloxi is certainly the kind of city you visit when you are in desperate need to unwind. You can find peace in its history and stroll about the city calmly, or you can break away from the monotony of your day-to-day life and hit the casinos. All said and done, make sure you don’t miss a single thing on this list of things to do in Biloxi. Like always, we got you covered.

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