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

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.