Enjoy the beauty and history of Mississippi’s Gulf Coast in Biloxi, a lively spot located about an hour and a half away from New Orleans, Louisiana. While Biloxi was devastated by Hurricane Katrina in 2005, resilient locals have rebuilt the city into a thriving center for entertainment, culture, and outdoor activity. Whether your kids are interested in playing in the sand or learning about history, it’s a breeze to find activities to stay busy every day of the week. These kid-friendly attractions are a great place to start, and as an added bonus, many are situated within walking distance of many vacation rentals in Biloxi.
1. Head for the Beach
Start your vacation with a relaxing day at one of Biloxi’s beaches. Head to Beach Boulevard and park at one of the many public access points. From there, you can wander down the wide, white sand beach to find a quiet spot. Pack a few drinks and snacks before leaving your vacation rental to keep the kids full, or simply pop into one of the restaurants or shops along the boulevard at meal times.
2. Explore West Ship Island
Hop on a passenger ferry to West Ship Island, a small piece of land that sits about 11 miles off of the coast. Look for dolphins in the Gulf on the 50-minute boat ride, and pack your hiking shoes to explore the island’s trails. Learn about deep-water harbor defense with a tour of historic Fort Massachusetts, which sits near the ferry dock. A well-maintained boardwalk runs between the fort and the island’s spectacular beach, so it’s easy to get to the ocean. If you’re visiting during the busy summer season, book ferry tickets online in advance.
3. See a Baseball Game
Head to MGM Park for an evening of baseball at a Biloxi Shuckers game. The team plays at MGM Park, a large outdoor stadium with ample seating and plenty of space for kids to roam. Individual tickets are easy to come by, but be sure to look out for the park’s frequent promotional days. On Family Fun Days, you can get special deals on tickets and snacks, and after the game, little ones can head down to the field to play catch with the team. All-You-Can-Eat Wednesdays feature a family-friendly buffet, and Two-For-Tuesdays include a buy one, get one free ticket special.
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4. Visit Beauvoir
Step into the history of the Deep South at Beauvoir, which was once the home of Confederate President Jefferson Davis. Wander through the beautiful antebellum-era estate, check out the Confederate cemetery, and let your little ones run around the expansive grounds. Experience a Civil War reenactment at the Fall Muster, or visit during the winter holidays to see Santa and enjoy Christmas-themed story hours. If your kids are older, come in the evening for a Meet the Spirits ghost tour of the property.
5. Take a Biloxi Shrimping Trip
Experience one of Biloxi’s important industries with a Biloxi Shrimping Trip. During the 70-minute boat tour, your kids can watch the crew drop a shrimping net into the Mississippi Sound, learn about shrimp and other marine life, and inspect the catch as it’s loaded on board. The well-trained staff members provide an engaging and entertaining narrative that’s fun for adults and little ones. Don’t worry about waves; tours operate in protected water to ensure a smooth journey.
6. Check Out a Historic Lighthouse
See the view from the Biloxi lighthouse, an iconic local landmark. The best way to see the structure is on the affordable guided tours that are scheduled each morning. When you’re done exploring the historic cast-iron structure, head over to the Biloxi Visitors Center. Here, your kids can check out photos of the city over the years and examine images of the destruction brought by Hurricane Katrina.
7. Visit a Museum
When inclement weather strikes, don’t just sit around your vacation home. Instead, tour one of Biloxi’s fascinating museums. Marvel at spectacular costumes in the Mardi Gras Museum, or pop into the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art for an afternoon of culture. Be sure to explore the grounds for a great view of Frank Gehry’s dramatic metal structures, and walk through the reconstructed home of photographer Pleasant Reed. If your kids are interested in boats, don’t miss the Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum.
8. Ride the Biloxi Tour Train
If you’re visiting Mississippi with toddlers or small children, explore the city aboard the Biloxi Tour Train. The open-air vehicle runs between the city’s top landmarks, so you can get around without extensive walking. Watch the city go by from the shaded cars while you enjoy the engaging commentary of the owner and guide. Tours usually leave twice per day in the summer.
9. Sail Aboard a Tall Ship
Feel the thrill of a sea voyage aboard one of Biloxi’s replica schooners, which feature billowing sails and sleek hulls. Members of the public can board the boats during Walk on Sail times; call the Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum in advance to book your spots. Before you head out on a cruise, take your kids to the observation deck of Schooner Pier Complex for a great view of the schooners and other local watercraft.
10. Walk the Bay Bridge
Enjoy a walk with the kids along the Biloxi Bay Bridge. A wide, paved walkway runs the length of the bridge, creating an easy walking or biking surface. Tall rails on either side keep children safe, and the panoramic views of the city and the ocean entertain adults. Go in the evening to catch a stunning sunset, and stay to see the sparkling lights of the waterfront casinos before retiring to your vacation rental.
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