Things to do in Biloxi Mississippi

Mississippi is hard to miss when roaming around in the South Eastern region of Europe. When finding the most beautiful places in Mississippi, who cannot think of Biloxi?

Biloxi, nicknamed The Playground of the South, is a beautiful part of southern Mississippi. This coastal city was once known as the Seafood Capital of the World; now casino resorts have become an important part of the city’s culture and tourism. The significant casino history often has visitors wonder, “What is there to do in Biloxi Mississippi besides gambling?”

This gorgeous city has a ton of interesting and fun activities for visitors of all ages. Whether you are visiting the city with your partner, friends, or family, you will not get bored!

What to do in Biloxi Mississippi

Biloxi is one of the favorite destinations in Mississippi among tourists. Besides enthralling casinos and gambling resorts, you can enjoy family-friendly activities, historic sites, outdoor adventures, boat trips, and more.

From incredible beaches like Biloxi Beach and Ship Island to fun places like escape rooms and Big Play Entertainment, Biloxi has a lot to offer. Moreover, the Biloxi lighthouse, the Hurricane Katrina Memorial, and the Walter Anderson Museum hold significance in the region’s history.

Let’s tell you the best tourist attractions in Biloxi Mississippi:

Biloxi Tour Train

What’s a better way to begin your trip than a city tour?

Also known as the Shrimp Train among locals, the Biloxi tour train is a must among things to do in Biloxi Mississippi for families.

The tramcar has been operating since 1961 and has become an iconic cultural element. It takes you to the most historical sites in the city, helping you decide which locations you want to visit during your stay. Some common attractions included in the tour train include MGM Park, City Hall, and the Biloxi Lighthouse where the tour begins.

Furthermore, the guided tours share insider details about the town’s rich past and culture. It is undoubtedly the fastest way to learn about city landmarks.

Biloxi Beach

The next on the list, Biloxi Beach is one of the top things to do in Biloxi Mississippi, and among the most romantic spots to visit with your partner. Enjoy the radiant views, take a barefoot stroll on the sand, swim on the shore, or go kayaking – the options are endless!

This white-sand beach covering 26 miles along Beach Boulevard is a tourist as well as local favorite. April to October is best for swimming as the water is above 70 degrees on average. So, don’t forget to pack your bathing suit.

Biloxi Beach’s popularity is also attributed to casinos, bars, restaurants, and shops along Beach Boulevard. However, the beach is not dog-friendly.

Biloxi Lighthouse

The Biloxi Lighthouse is one of the most historic landmarks in the city that you must visit, even if you don’t want to take the Biloxi train tour.

The Biloxi Lighthouse, also known as the Old Ship Island Light, is one of the oldest cast-iron lighthouses. This 55-foot-tall lighthouse, built in 1848, is made of brick and cast iron. Many female lightkeepers have been employed at the lighthouse in the past.

The lighthouse is a symbol of Biloxi’s resilience after Hurricane Katrina in 2005. It is quite close to Biloxi Beach. So, many tourists visit it after spending time at Biloxi Beach.

The lighthouse opens in the mornings and you can enter it for a $5 ticket.

Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art

A short trip to the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art is one of the top 10 things to do in Biloxi Mississippi, especially for art enthusiasts.

You will love this place if you enjoy spending time around spectacular works of art and finding yourself lost in a world of imagination.

The Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art features George E. Ohr’s exquisite ceramic work, widely known as the Mad Potter of Biloxi. The museum displays over 200 art pieces, including sculptures, rock art, paintings, and drawings by George E. Ohr and other local artists.

The museum gets its name from George’s and Annette O’Keefe’s surnames. Annette O’Keefe is the wife of former Biloxi mayor Jeremiah O’Keefe Sr, who raised and donated money for this museum. This non-profit museum celebrates creativity and independence, encouraging children and adults to learn more about art. Educational programs like art classes and workshops add to the list of kid-friendly things to do in Biloxi, Mississippi.

Frank Gehry designed this breathtaking building which is a piece of art in itself. The museum building attracts you even if you’re not an art lover. The museum welcomes visitors from Tuesday to Saturday, 10 am to 5 pm, with a $10 entry fee. Observe the art displays, engage in workshops, and purchase merchandise from the gift shop.

Also, don’t forget to take a picture at the Greetings from Biloxi mural at 158 G E Ohr St, Biloxi.

Betsy Ann Riverboat

Touring the Betsy Ann Riverboat is among the unmissable things to do in Biloxi Mississippi. The Betsy Ann Riverboat has been operating since the 1900s and has become a prominent part of Biloxi culture.

This steamboat can accommodate up to 70 passengers and takes you through the Mississippi Sound, offering breathtaking views of the Gulf Coast. It also has a full bar with delicious snacks to munch on while you enjoy the views.

Choose from multiple cruises including the live music sunset cruise, hibachi dinner cruise, and historical and ecological tour cruise.

Hurricane Katrina Memorial

Biloxi is also home to the Hurricane Katrina Memorial which commemorates the devastating Hurricane Katrina in 2005. The memorial pays homage to the people who lost their lives during the storm.

The curving hurricane waves inspire the long black granite wall of the Hurricane Katrina Memorial made with the names of the victims engraved on it. You can also walk through gardens around the wall representing the regions impacted by the hurricane.

Additionally, make a stop at the Hurricane Camille Memorial a 5-minute walk from Hurricane Katrina Memorial.

Gulf Islands Waterpark

A fun day at a waterpark is a must when vacationing with kids, and the Gulf Islands Waterpark is among the best water parks in Biloxi Mississippi. It is also one of the largest water parks on the Gulf Coast, so there’s a lot to enjoy!

This waterpark has over 10 exciting slides along with rides; the massive slides and rides at the waterpark ensure every member of your family has fun. At the same time, Zip n’ Fun next to the waterpark is best to unwind after you’re done with splashing in the water. Take this zipline adventure you’ll remember forever!

Gulf Islands Waterpark welcomes visitors between 10 am and 6 pm, but the timings may vary. So, always check in advance before visiting the waterpark.

Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum

A visit to the Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum is one of the must things to do in Biloxi Mississippi with kids.

The Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum was established in 1986 to preserve the Gulf Coast region’s history and culture. This museum offers the goodness of two (maritime and seafood industries) under one roof. It has one of the US’s largest collections of artifacts, featuring over 60,000 photographs, ship models, tools, and documents.

Furthermore, you learn about seafarers, the local fishing industry, shrimping, fishing, and oystering in the region. Other parts of the museum focus on marine machinery, blacksmithing, and net making.

Roam through the Biloxi Seafood Factory, Joe Moran Art Exhibit Gallery, and Commercial Fishing Gallery to make the best of your time here. The Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum also offers seafood processing, maritime history, and boatbuilding educational programs. So, add it to your list of things to do in Biloxi Mississippi this weekend while you’re there.

If you’re looking for something more interesting, plan your trip with one of their walk-on sails or charter a schooner for a private tour with your family!

Ship Island

Taking a ferry to Ship Island and soaking in the sun with your partner is one of the most romantic things to do in Biloxi Mississippi.

Besides Biloxi Beach, Ship Island is another gorgeous location to relax after exploring the city for a few days. Located along the Gulf Islands National Seashore, this beach is popular among locals and tourists who do not prefer the main beach.

You can find traditional beach recreational activities during peak season in summer. However, it is much more serene and calm during the off-season, making it perfect for a couple’s getaway. The beach’s white sand and radiant water make you want to sit there for eternity; rent umbrellas and chairs and enjoy the views. But get ready for a strenuous walk from the dock to the beach.

Moreover, Fort Massachusetts on Ship Island is a favorite among history fans. This historical location takes you to Civil War times and tells you more about it through guided programs. However, it’s worth noting that taking a ferry is the only way to reach Ship Island. It departs from the harbor at Jones Park and takes you to the island in around an hour.

Beauvoir – The Jefferson Davis Home and Presidential Library

Whether you are a fan of politics or not, The Jefferson Davis Home and Presidential Library is an important mention among things to do in Biloxi Mississippi.

This 51-acre estate in Beauvoir was home to Jefferson Davis, the president of the Confederate States, from 1861 to 1865. The museum also displays a huge collection of artifacts and memorabilia from the Civil War, including weapons and uniforms.

The guided tours tell you everything about Jefferson Davis’s life, career, and role in the Civil War.

Biloxi Bay Bridge

Walking on the Biloxi Bay Bridge could be one of the best things to do in Biloxi Mississippi for nature lovers.

The 1.6-mile bridge between Biloxi and Ocean Springs is one of the most iconic attractions with a stunning dual-lighting design. While the bridge is an architectural marvel itself, the view from the bridge will leave you amazed. Most people prefer driving on the bridge to see the Biloxi skyline.

Alternatively, you can walk on the pedestrian walkways for as long as you want, take pictures, and head back.

Escape Rooms

Are you ready to use your skills to escape from a room?

Escape rooms are perfect for spending your day with friends and family during your vacation in Biloxi Mississippi. The city has numerous escape rooms and you can choose any you like. Have fun with your family while solving puzzles to escape the room. There are multiple options like the underwater-themed escape room, top-secret mission escape room, and gold mine escape room.

Walter Anderson Museum of Art 

A visit to the Walter Anderson Museum of Art is another interesting activity among the best things to do in Biloxi, Mississippi, for aesthetes.

While the museum is not exactly in Biloxi, it is a favorite among art lovers. Located in Ocean Springs, the Walter Anderson Museum of Art is nationally accredited and is known for the South’s most elusive art.

The museum displays Walter Anderson and his brothers’ work; it was established six years after Anderson passed away. Murals, paintings, and drawings adorn the walls of this Mississippian art museum. You will also see ceramic art and intricately carved wood pieces inspired by animals and flowers of the Golf Coast.

Visitors can take a self-guided tour around the museum or enroll in one guided tour to understand the history and museum’s permanent and changing exhibits.

Big Play Entertainment Center

How could we miss the Big Play Entertainment Center when mentioning things to do in Biloxi Mississippi for families and friends?

The Big Play Entertainment Center is perfect for having fun with friends and family. The entertainment center has dozens of arcade games, bumper cars, laser tag, and much more! Moreover, the 12-lane bowling alley is ideal for even larger groups who want to play simultaneously.

So, if you love go-karting and 18-hole mini-golf, add this to your itinerary right away!

Finishline Performance Karting (Next After Big Play)

Finishline premium performance go-karting is unmissable on the list of fun things to do in Biloxi Mississippi. 

It is one of the most thrilling adventures in the city. Driving through the tracks at high speed gives you an instant adrenaline rush. The best part is that it is suitable for people of all ages as they have multiple courses. Also, you can choose to race solo or with a partner.

Finishline Performance Karting is open seven days a week so you do not have to worry about visiting and finding it closed.

Fly Llama Brewing

A brewery tour is always one of the most interesting activities on a trip. The Fly Llama Brewing tour is one such experience among things to do in Biloxi Mississippi for adults.

Founded in 2014, Fly Llama Brewery is an in-demand tourist location along the Gulf Coast. They use locally sourced ingredients to brew hard seltzers and beers.

The brewery is open six days a week, allowing visitors to see the brewery’s Tap Room and enjoy the seltzers, lagers, and more drinks.

Ghost Sunset & Night Cruise

What’s a better way to end your day in Biloxi than a night cruise?

Ghost Sunset & Night Cruise takes you on a cruise journey through destinations haunted by the past. Besides enjoying the journey, be ready to be spooked by the tour guides’ scary stories. 

The best part is that this cruise is one of the most economical things to do in Biloxi Mississippi.

Casino Hopping

While we mentioned things to do in Biloxi, Mississippi, for couples, children, families, and friends besides gambling, a visit to Biloxi is incomplete without casino hopping!

Casino hopping is one of the most popular things to do in Biloxi Mississippi for adults. The gambling culture dates back to the 1920s. It became more common in the 1950s in back rooms when gambling was outlawed, giving Biloxi the title of “Las Vegas on the Gulf Coast.”

Biloxi Mississippi has eight first-class casinos, including the acclaimed Golden Nugget. Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, Beau Rivage Casino, Harrah’s, and Palace Casino Resort are other renowned names.

• Beau Rivage Casino: It is the largest casino in Mississippi and features an 18-hole on-site golf course. However, it is only accessible to hotel guests.
• Hard Rock Hotel and Casino: This casino is a favorite among music lovers as it features live music besides the gambling scene.
• Harrah’s: Harrah’s has a massive variety of gambling options, from slot machines to poker and table games.
• Palace Casino Resort: It is the perfect pick for people who prefer smoke-free areas; Palace Casino Resort also has a golf course and a spa.

Other Casino resorts in Biloxi include Boomtown Casino, Treasure Bay Casino, and IP Casino.

Other Things to See and Do in Biloxi Mississippi

• MGM Park
• Margaritaville Resort
• Biloxi Fire Museum
• Airboat Swamp Ride & Alligator Farm
• Old Biloxi Cemetery
• Tiki Cruise
• Bay St. Louis Ghost and Cemetery walk
• Coastal Mississippi Mardi Gras Museum
• Biloxi West Beach Boardwalk
• Souvenir City
• Shrimping or fishing trip

Hotels in Biloxi Mississippi

“Where to stay in Biloxi?” should not be a concern as this city has amazing accommodation options. Some of the hotels in Biloxi Mississippi may be slightly on the expensive end, but the service is unmatched. The top places to stay in Biloxi Mississippi are:

• Hard Rock Hotel & Casino: Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is among the most popular hotels in Biloxi, Mississippi, with ten restaurants, an extravagant casino, and the Aveda Concept Spa and Salon.
• Beau Rivage: Beau Rivage Hotel is also known for its casino and incredible views from its rooms. Ask them for a room on the highest possible floor to experience sunrises and sunsets like you might have never seen before.
• The White House Hotel: This hotel is the accommodation of dreams for people who appreciate history and architecture. The best part is the super-friendly staff that makes your stay even better.
• Hotel Legends: Apart from Casino resorts and hotels, this all-suite hotel is perfect for people who love luxury. From the lovely pool to soft, comfy furniture – this hotel has it all.

Restaurants in Biloxi Mississippi

Whether you want to grab a quick bite or enjoy an extensive meal at a restaurant, Biloxi does not disappoint. Here are our top favorite restaurants in Biloxi Mississippi:

• Biloxi Waffle House
• Beach Blvd Steamer
• Shaggy’s
• The Chimneys
• Half Shell Oyster House of Gulfport

• White Pillars
• Mary Mahoney’s

FAQs

Where is Biloxi?

Biloxi is a Harrison County city in Southern Mississippi along the Gulf Coast. It is the 4^th largest city in Mississippi, known for beaches and casinos, and boasts a rich history.

What are the best things to do in Biloxi Mississippi in December?

December is Christmas time, and you will find Biloxi in true Christmas spirit during your vacation in Biloxi, Mississippi. Attend the Biloxi Christmas on the Water Boat Parade, visit the Beauvoir Christmas Open House, and take a holiday lights tour in Biloxi in December.

Is Biloxi Mississippi safe?

Biloxi Mississippi crime rate soars at 51 per thousand residents, which is one of the highest in the USA. However, it is a popular tourist city with no common street crimes and welcomes a large number of visitors.

How to get to Biloxi?

You can take a flight to Biloxi, opt for a road trip, or use public transportation. The charismatic drive along the Gulf of Mexico is one of the best ways to get to Biloxi. The Greyhound bus also operates between New Orleans and Biloxi.

Which is the closest airport to Biloxi Mississippi?

The Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport in Gulfport is the closest to Biloxi. You can get American, Delta, United, or Sun Country Airline flights to Biloxi Mississippi.