10 Things to do in Biloxi, Mississippi For First Time Visitors
If you are visiting in the Gulf of Mexico and end up in Biloxi, Mississippi, there are plenty of things there to keep you busy. Biloxi is known first of all for its casinos, so if you want to get your game on, this may just be the vacation spot you’ve been looking for. There are lots of famous spots for sightseeing and tons of good places to eat. You can even do some exploring and see some of the local wildlife if that’s your thing. If you’ve chosen here as you’re next vacation spot, but you’re not exactly sure what to do, here’s 10 things to do in Biloxi, Mississippi for first-time visitors.
1. Biloxi Lighthouse
You can’t really visit Biloxi without visiting the lighthouse; it’s an important part of the city. The Biloxi Lighthouse is proof of the city’s strength and courage when facing any challenge, most often under the guise of hurricanes. It was actually one of the original cast-iron lighthouses built in the South and it is now one of their most treasured landmarks. Daily tours are available daily but get there early. The Lighthouse only offers three tour times: 9 am, 9:15 am, and 9:30 am.
2. Mardi Gras Museum
Mardi Gras has played a crucial role in life here in Mississippi. The Mardi Gras Museum helps pay tribute to the holiday. People from all over the world come for Mardi Gras. This museum shows off some of the most genuine aspects of Mardi Gras’ years past. Learn some history and interesting facts as well while checking out the lavish costumes of past Mardi Gras. The museum also has a nice little souvenir shop so you can take a souvenir home with you or get someone a gift.
3. Biloxi Tour Train
Passengers take a trip through the historic district in open train cars. The train has been called by other names, but has been in operation since 1961 and can be seen from all over the town. The ride includes a tour of the city’s historical section as well as a program about the historical and cultural roots of Biloxi. Tours run daily.
4. Ship Island
This is a popular place for family day-trips. There’s a great beach of glistening white sands to relax on and just soak up some sun. There’s also a guided tour of Fort Massachusetts which was built back in 1812 for defending the coast. In addition, you can walk along the boardwalk or catch a ferry ride back. Keep an eye out for dolphins!
5. Biloxi Brewing Company
If you’re a fan of beer, you’re going to love taking a tour which includes a tasting at the Biloxi Brewing Company. Each of its unique blends of craft beers brings the spirit and flavor of Biloxi to life. Clever names have been given to each celebrating its origins. Stop by for a tour and talk to a brewer who knows what he or she is talking about. Come thirsty; you’ll be tasting six offerings.
6. Biloxi Shrimping Trip
This shrimping trip has been running seaside excursions ever since 1954! The company takes would-be shrimpers out on a real expedition in the Coast. The educational journey takes a full seventy minutes and is a completely immersive experience. Learn how to catch shrimp and even help out if you’d like. The tour is both pet and child-friendly, so you can bring your entire family along for some shrimping fun.
7. Harrah’s Gulf Coast
If you want to check out the casino life, Harrah’s is the place to go. It’s established brand brings you a quality casino and accommodations in one. This place is the whole package. You get a hotel, resort, casino, pool, spa, several dining options, and a popular concert venue. Come to see a live act, layout by the pool, or play a few rounds of golf; it’s up to you.
8. Island Time Charters
This Biloxi-based charter boat company can take you and up to three friends on a fishing trip of a lifetime. Island Time Charters specializes in light tackle fishing cruises in the Gulf waters. Charters can go out full or half-days and try to catch fish, such as red snapper, speckled trout, and flounder. If you’re not into fishing, the charter company also offers sightseeing and sunset cruises.
9. Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art
If you want something to do indoors for a bit and are a fan of abstract art, you’ll love this place. Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art offers modern sculptures and ceramics. The campus was designed featuring several outdoor installations and the museum hosts several permanent collections while also rotating collections of work as well. You never know what kind of art you may find, from photographs to drawings to paintings to pottery. Enjoy a day in and take in some art.
10. Hurricane Katrina Memorial
Before you leave the great city of Biloxi, you really should visit the Hurricane Katrina Memorial. This significant event incredibly impacted the lives of those who live here. In fact, being one of Mississippi’s largest Gulf Coast cities, Biloxi was hit especially hard. The memorial reminds the community and visitors alike that the lives lost and the devastation Katrina caused will never be forgotten.