Biloxi, Mississippi: Discover the Gulf Coast Gem

My first visit to the state of Mississippi brought me to the Gulf Coast town of Biloxi for Mardi Gras. Family visitors are welcomed by the down-home locals as they have been since the early part of the 19th century.

Biloxi LIghthouse and Visitors Center overlook the Gulf Coast of Mississippi. Photo by Alex North for Gulfcoast.org
Biloxi LIghthouse and Visitors Center overlook the Gulf Coast of Mississippi. Photo by Alex North for Gulfcoast.org

Biloxi and the surrounding Gulf Coast towns have an egalitarian spirit with little in common with the traditional, Southern gothic, Faulkneresque world I had imagined. This is a good thing. Friendly folks are the rule here, not the exception.

The so-called “Playground of the South” offers inexpensive, family-friendly diversions like the beach. Alternatively, sample the numerous casinos that could easily occupy you for a weekend. Biloxi is located directly on the Mississippi Sound and is pretension-free. That’s fitting for a place once known as the Poor Man’s Riviera. St. Tropez or Capri it’s not, so don’t come here and expect fancy.

Sandy Beaches of Biloxi and Gulf Islands, Mississippi

Aerial view of Ship Island, off the Gulf Coast of Mississippi near Biloxi. Photo c. Ship Island Excursions
A Biloxi Mardi Gras adventure is a great time to visit Ship Island, a ferry ride away from the Gulf Coast. Photo c. Ship Island Excursions

The best part of a family vacation year-round in Biloxi is its waterfront location. The Gulf of Mexico surf (thoroughly tested regularly and proclaimed clean) is usually gentle. Enjoy the soft sand, perfect for barefoot walks and splashing with your toddlers.

All the beaches are public, so you can lay down your towel or open your beach chairs wherever you like. Once the kids are in the water, they will probably never notice that the beach is between oil rigs and highrise casinos. 

Despite the hasty development that the casino boom brought to the region, unspoiled barrier islands are scattered off the coast and into the Gulf of Mexico. 

If you are looking for a special day trip, take the ferry to Ship Island, an undeveloped barrier island 11 miles offshore.  Ship Island Excursions departs from Gulfport Harbor and will have you there in an hour. Look for Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, known to frolic in these warm, clear waters.  Explore old Fort, Massachusetts, and enjoy a day of swimming, bird watching, shelling, and picnicking as you commune with nature on this pristine island.

A walking and bike trail runs along the coast, increasing recreational possibilities. There is an old lighthouse in the town center, and families will want to climb to the top of the spiral staircase to get a bird’ birds-eye view.

Biloxi and the Gulf Coast Do Mardi Gras Big-Time

Family in Mardi Gras outfits at Biloxi Mississippi Mardi Gras parade.
All ages dress up to join the floats on parade for the Biloxi Mardi Gras.

Mardi Gras in Biloxi is full of families, many with very young children. I was lucky enough to have visited during the traditional pre-Lenten celebration in winter. It felt more like a state fair than the rowdy, alcohol-fueled fiesta that I had anticipated. 

There are festivities for several weeks leading up to Fat Tuesday’s main event, a parade bursting with music, dancing, and merriment. The good news is that the fun is on a very manageable, kid-appropriate scale.

The annual Ocean Springs – Elks Parade is in Ocean Springs, typically on a Saturday two weeks before Mardi Gras. The Children’s Mardi Gras Walking Parade walks through downtown Biloxi on the Saturday prior to Mardi Gras Tuesday. Stop to watch and pause at the many family activities and booths. Everyone lines the town’s broad streets pleading for the various Krewes, perched on top of their floats, to throw them Mardi Gras beads in the traditional shades of purple, gold, and green. White beads also fly, and the locals refer to these as pearls.

The coronation of the Mardi Gras King and Queen is held on the eve of Mardi Gras this year, Feb. 12, 2024. Everyone is welcome to attend the pageantry of this ceremonial crowning. If you have a fan of Disney princesses with you, don’t miss this fairytale come to life.

Celebrating more than 115 years, the Annual Gulf Coast Carnival Association’s Parade occurs the next day, on Mardi Gras night. Gulfport hosts its own Krewe of Gemini Parade that same night and many other Louisiana towns, as well as other American communities, celebrate Mardi Gras too.

Family-friendly Activities in Biloxi at Mardi Gras

Climbing tower in the lobby of the Lynne Meadows Discovery Center children's museum in Biloxi, Mississippi. Photo c. LMDC
Climbing tower in the lobby of the Lynne Meadows Discovery Center children’s museum in Biloxi, Mississippi. Photo c. LMDC

If you’re visiting Biloxi at Mardi Gras, you won’t want to spend every day at the beach. The Lynn Meadows Discovery Center in nearby Gulfport is the place to visit on a rainy day. The first children’s museum in the state it promotes a hands-on experience that helps give kids a historical perspective on life in this area.

See what a local hotel was like in the 1890s at History Hotel. Visit To Market, To Market, which recreates a Mississippi grocery store. Don’t miss the colorful climbing structure in the lobby.

Big Play Family Fun Center in Biloxi is a refreshed oasis of kid-approved fun. It features a bowling alley, arcade games, classic bumper cars on a raceway, and virtual reality rides. Check their website for daily specials, such as $2 Tuesdays when kids bowl for just $2 per game.

If you and your family enjoy golf, the mild climate means year-round possibilities. There are nearly 20 courses in the area, some designed by big game names like Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, and Tom Fazio. If fishing is your sport, the area enjoys the reputation of being one of the nation’s finest fish hatcheries, where many species of freshwater, saltwater, and deep sea game fish are usually in abundance year-round.

Hurricane Katrina Memorial

Hurricane Katrina hit this area in 2005 and saw devastating destruction and loss of life. Locals talk about life as “before” and “after Katrina,” as loquacious old-timers used to speak of Hurricane Camille, 1969’s powerfully destructive storm. 

The Hurricane Katrina Memorial in downtown Biloxi is worth a visit. Townsfolk will proudly tell you that the Extreme Makeover: Home Edition crew helped to build this memorial dedicated to Katrina’s victims. I highly suggest speaking with as many locals as possible, as many are glad to share their experiences. The resilience that they have shown is a valuable lesson for all ages to admire.

Casinos and Hotels of Biloxi

The Hard Rock and Beau Rivage Casinos dominate the Biloxi skyline, even along the pretty waterfront. Photo c. Gulfcoast.org
The Hard Rock and Beau Rivage Casinos dominate the Biloxi skyline, even along the pretty waterfront. Photo c. Gulfcoast.org

Biloxi has had legal gaming for a generation. Many locals sing the praises of the economic benefits that the casinos have brought to the region. I am not a fan of bringing children to casinos and keep in mind that Biloxi is full of them. The smoke factor alone keeps me at a distance.

In fairness, I am a non-gambler, so the charms of all casinos escape me. In Biloxi, they are an eyesore. I couldn’t stop thinking how much more scenic the coastline would be without them.

The only one I would recommend to families is The Palace. They claim to be the only smoke-free casino on the Gulf Coast. This family-run operation is clean as a whistle, with the right amount of glitz to impress teens. Mignon’s Steaks and Seafood is a fine dining option in the casino. The menu at this Wine Spectator magazine Award of Excellence winner includes a stellar wine selection for adult oenophiles. Don’t miss the fabulous dessert options for everyone in the family.

The Courtyard Gulfport Beachfront, one of many Marriott brands on the Gulf Coast, is a super-clean, non-gaming hotel near the beaches and many attractions.

Another brand-new hotel option that teens will appreciate is the South Beach-style Bella, 13 individually-themed short-term rental suites tucked into a historic bank building. Musical themes inspire both the decor and pop art on the walls. It’s conveniently located in downtown Biloxi, just a block away from beaches and — for over-21s — some of Biloxi’s most popular casinos.  For other lodging options, Book Now and Save at Hotels.com.

Southern Eats along the Gulf Coast

A classic shrimp Po'boy sandwich at the Harbor View Cafe in Biloxi, Mississippi. Photo c. Harbor View Cafe
A classic shrimp Po’boy sandwich at the Harbor View Cafe in Biloxi. Photo c. Harbor View Cafe

It is in the culinary arena that the Southern charm I had been seeking was found. Casual, family-owned eateries dominate.  Fresh seafood, very fair prices, and large portions will put families at ease. 

The Harbor View Cafe in Long Beach is a fine place to start the day. Shrimp and Grits and Pecan French Toast are tasty, homespun choices. Ask for the kid’s menu for the 12-and-under crowd. If you come here for lunch, indulge in a po-boy sandwich filled with locally caught fried shrimp or oysters, a hometown classic. You will need both hands to get a grip on it, so unless your appetite is big, consider sharing.

For dinner, Rackhouse Steaks & Spirits in Gulfport offers a sophisticated downtown taste. Pasta, steak, and seafood appear on the menu, along with a bourbon-glazed pork belly and other reimagined Creole favorites.

Tips and Recommendations for Your Biloxi Adventure

Plan for Mardi Gras: If you’re visiting during Mardi Gras, check the schedule for events and parades in advance. Arrive early to secure a good spot for watching the festivities.

Explore Barrier Islands: Consider exploring other barrier islands besides Ship Island. Each offers a unique experience, from pristine beaches to birdwatching opportunities.

Stay Smoke-Free: If you prefer a smoke-free environment, opt for The Palace Casino Resort, the only smoke-free casino on the Gulf Coast. It’s a comfortable choice for families.

Sample Local Cuisine: Venture beyond familiar dishes and try Southern specialties like gumbo, jambalaya, and beignets at local eateries.

Respect Nature: When visiting natural areas, follow Leave No Trace principles. Keep the beaches and islands clean and respect wildlife.

Check for Specials: Watch for daily specials and promotions at places like the Big Play Family Fun Center. You might find great deals for family entertainment.

Book Accommodations Early: If you plan to visit during peak seasons or Mardi Gras, it’s advisable to book accommodations well in advance to secure your preferred lodging.

Try Seafood: Since you’re on the Gulf Coast, make sure to indulge in fresh seafood, whether it’s shrimp, oysters, or Gulf fish. It’s a culinary treat you won’t want to miss.

Explore Gulfport: While in the area, consider exploring Gulfport nearby. It offers additional attractions, dining options, and family-friendly activities.

FAQs for Your Biloxi, Mississippi Getaway

The Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport is located in Gulfport, and is served by several major airlines. Interstate 10 connects the area to Houston, New Orleans, Mobile and other Southern cities. Beach Blvd., also known as Highway 90, hugs the beaches and is where most casinos are.

Are there any national parks in Biloxi, Mississippi?

While Biloxi doesn’t have national parks, it offers access to stunning natural areas like barrier islands. For national parks, you can explore nearby options like the Gulf Islands National Seashore in Florida and Mississippi.

What is the best time to visit Biloxi for Mardi Gras?

Mardi Gras in Biloxi typically takes place in late February or early March. The weather is comfortable, and the family-friendly atmosphere makes it ideal for a memorable experience.

Which casinos in Biloxi are smoke-free?

The Palace Casino Resort in Biloxi is known for being smoke-free and family-friendly. It’s a great option if you’re traveling with children and want to enjoy some casino entertainment.

How can I reach Ship Island for a day trip?

You can take a ferry to Ship Island from Gulfport Harbor. Ship Island Excursions offers a convenient and enjoyable way to reach this pristine barrier island.

What are some must-try Southern dishes in Biloxi?

Remember classic Southern dishes like Shrimp and Grits, Pecan French Toast, and po-boy sandwiches filled with locally caught shrimp or oysters. These local flavors are a must-try during your visit.

The Mississippi Gulf Coast Official website is loaded with helpful information that should assist you in planning your vacation.

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