10 Reasons to visit the Mississippi Gulf Coast This Fall
- Miles of uninterrupted white beaches perfect for strolling hand in hand.
- Explore the 26 miles of flat trails on a bicycle built for two. Rent a bike at EcoGeno Bicycle Shop. There are so many fun outdoor activities to enjoy here, and the weather is perfect.
- Lots of options for where to stay. Along with huge casino hotels, consider sleeping at an elegant, century-old inn serving traditional Southern-style breakfast. Some of the best: Oak Crest Mansion Inn, Chateau Blessy and Almanett Guest House.
- Take a boat ride to the uninhabited barrier islands in clear emerald waters to see wildlife up close—alligators, dolphins, sea turtles and migrating birds. Investigate the offerings of Ship Island Excursions, Gulf Islands National Seashore Park, Crane National Wildlife refuge and Pascagoula River Audubon Center.
- Experience the magnificent gold and magenta sunsets of the Gulf Coast. This nightly show awaits you right around happy hour.
- Enjoy the diverse and unforgettable seafood from this region. Similar to New Orleans Cajun cooking, the Mississippi Gulf Coast restaurants specialize spicy gumbos with fresh catch, including crab, alligator and shrimp. Meals often end with luscious bread puddings flavored by pumpkin, dark molasses and rum. The freshly shucked oysters and tubular okra make their way into many of Mississippi’s signature dishes. Find Mississippi Gulf Coast’s most authentic local cuisine at Mary Mahoney’s Old French House, Red Sky Crabhouse and Half Shell Oyster House.
- Peruse the art galleries. Handmade pottery is a particular specialty of resident crafters, with colors and textures inspired by the natural environment. Some stand out galleries include Ocean Springs Main Street, 782 Gallery, Ohr-O’Keefe Museum, Shearwater Pottery and Walter Anderson Museum of Art.
- Pamper yourself and enjoy the nightlife at one of Biloxi’s luxurious casino resorts–with pools overlooking the Gulf, state of the art spas, upscale restaurants and gaming that includes baccarat, Roulette, Black Jack and poker. Beau Rivage, The Palace and Hard Rock Biloxi. Or just enjoy the lack of crowds at one of their luxurious pools overlooking the Mississippi River at one of its widest parts.
- Visit nearby towns to find adorable boutique shops, especially the tiny village of Pass Christian where artists and chefs have turned FEMA cottages into boutiques and restaurants. Or check out the Gulf Coast’s many historic trails like Mississippi Blues, Country Music and Freedom Trails. Some worthwhile historical sites to visit include the Graveline Bayou Indian Mound dating back to 700 BC and Jefferson Davis’ former mansion.
- Take in local music at various venues, from the large stage at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and the IP Casino Resort & Spa; or intimate concerts that feature classic country and New Orleans blues. Check out the Sunset Bar in Island View Casino Resort, Shaggy’s Beach Bar and Government Street Grocery.
For more information: visit Biloxi’s tourism website.
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Freelance writer and photographer specializing in vivid, deeply reported stories about food, travel and family.