Your Ultimate Family Fun Guide to the Mississippi Gulf Coast

Planning a family trip to the Mississippi Gulf Coast? You're in for a treat! From sunny beach days and thrilling waterparks to fascinating museums and high-energy entertainment centers, there's an incredible variety of activities to keep everyone happy, rain or shine.

Museums & Learning Adventures

1. Lynn Meadows Discovery Center (Gulfport): A must-visit for those with children, this hands-on museum sparks creativity and learning. Explore 15,000 square feet of interactive exhibits, including a colossal climbing structure, an art floor, and even a replica fishing port. It’s an imaginative space for kids to play and learn.
2. Mississippi Aquarium (Gulfport): Dive into an underwater world at this stunning facility. Perfect for any day, the aquarium features a mesmerizing 360-degree ocean tunnel and is home to dolphins, sharks, and countless other species. It's an educational and awe-inspiring experience for all ages.
3. INFINITY Science Center (Pearlington): Pair hands-on learning with kid-friendly fun at the official visitor center for the NASA Stennis Space Center. Explore exhibits on space, Earth, and technology, and don't miss the 3D immersive theater.
4. Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum (Biloxi): Discover the rich maritime history and heritage of the Gulf Coast. Exhibits feature shrimping, oystering, charter boats, and net making, offering a fascinating look into the local culture.
5. Ohr-O'Keefe Museum of Art (Biloxi): This architectural marvel, designed by Frank Gehry, is dedicated to the unique ceramics of George E. Ohr, the "Mad Potter of Biloxi." It's a fantastic stop for art-loving families.
6. Mississippi Coast Model Railroad Museum (Gulfport): Be charmed by the largest LEGO railroad display in Mississippi! This museum features countless detailed model train layouts and interactive models that kids can operate and enjoy.

All-Weather Thrills & Entertainment

1. Big Play Entertainment Center (Biloxi): This one-stop hub of fun is perfect for a family with diverse interests. Enjoy bowling, a massive arcade, laser tag, bumper cars, and go-karts. With a full restaurant on-site, you can easily spend an entire afternoon or evening here.
2. Altitude Trampoline Park (Gulfport): Let the kids burn off some energy at this indoor park featuring wall-to-wall trampolines, foam pits, and courts for trampoline-powered basketball and dodgeball.
3. Finishline Performance Karting (Biloxi): For families with a need for speed, this go-kart racing complex offers a thrilling experience for both adults and kids. After the race, check out the arcade and ziplines.
4. Casino Arcades (Biloxi): You don't have to be a grown-up to have fun at the resorts! The arcades at Beau Rivage Casino and the Margaritaville Resort are loaded with the hottest video games, virtual reality experiences, and even a rock-climbing wall.

Soaking Up the Sun: Outdoor Adventures

1. Biloxi Beach: No family trip is complete without a beach day. The calm waters, protected by the barrier islands, are perfect for swimming, while the soft white sand is ideal for building sandcastles.
2. Gulf Islands Waterpark (Gulfport): On a hot day, cool off at this massive, island-themed waterpark. It features monstrous water slides, relaxing pools, a cafe, and cabanas for the ultimate summer outing.
3. Buccaneer State Park (Waveland): Enjoy some time in nature at this beautiful park. With a day-use area perfect for picnics and access to the shoreline and trails, it's a great spot to relax and explore.
4. Biloxi Shuckers Baseball Games: Catch a minor-league baseball game for an affordable and fun family night out. Enjoy the game, grab a hot dog, and cheer on the home team.
5. Wolf River Canoe & Kayak: For an adventurous day, head out on an expedition down the scenic Wolf River. The company provides everything you need for a memorable trip on the water.

Step into the Past: Historic Tours

1. Historic Biloxi Train Tour: Hop aboard an open-air train for a 90-minute tour celebrating local heritage. It's a one-of-a-kind way to see the Historic District with a knowledgeable and friendly guide.
2. Downtown Walking Tours: Discover Biloxi's rich and sometimes turbulent past with a guided walk. You'll visit landmarks like the Katrina Memorial, the Magnolia Hotel, and the Creole Cottage.
3. Biloxi Lighthouse: Take a guided tour of this iconic 1847 lighthouse, a true symbol of the city's resilience. Climb to the top for incredible views of the Mississippi Sound.

Old Biloxi Cemetery Tour: For a unique experience, take a self-guided tour of this historic cemetery, where reenactors sometimes bring the colorful characters of Biloxi’s past to life.