Introduction
Biloxi sits along the Mississippi Gulf Coast. It blends vibrant casino resorts with deep maritime roots. Visitors adore its fresh seafood, sun-kissed beaches, and warm southern hospitality. This guide highlights the things to do in Biloxi, MS so you can plan a memorable trip. You’ll find modern entertainment, cultural landmarks, and exciting outdoor activities. Dive in for 15 can’t-miss attractions that define Biloxi’s charm in 2025.
If you’re planning a trip to the Magnolia State, don’t miss these top attractions across Mississippi that offer everything from scenic beauty to cultural landmarks.
1. Discover the Best Casinos & Entertainment in Biloxi, MS
Gaming and nightlife form the backbone of Biloxi’s appeal. Sparkling casinos line the Gulf Coast, offering big-name concerts, fine dining, and 24/7 fun.
1.1 Beau Rivage Resort & Casino
Beau Rivage stands tall as one of Biloxi’s premier casino destinations. The resort’s luxurious décor draws you in. Slot machines buzz day and night. Table games suit every skill level, from casual blackjack to high-stakes poker. Once you’re done playing, catch a live show at the state-of-the-art theater. Big-name performers often grace the stage on weekends.
- Approx. Room Rates: $120–$200 per night, depending on season.
- Dining Options: Multiple on-site restaurants serve steaks, sushi, and classic southern fare.
- Entertainment Tip: Check the resort’s online calendar for upcoming concerts.
1.2 Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Biloxi
Hard Rock Biloxi pulses with energy. Guitars and rock memorabilia line the lobby. Music-themed suites add flair to your stay. At the casino, you’ll find new slots plus classic table games. Don’t miss the rooftop bar for panoramic Gulf views. It’s popular during sunsets and balmy nights.
- Nightlife: DJs spin tracks on weekends. Live bands sometimes play near the gaming floor.
- Food Scene: Casual burger joints and upscale seafood spots.
- Approx. Gaming Budget: Minimum bets start around $5–$10 at tables.
Along the Gulf Coast, visitors will find plenty of exciting experiences in Gulfport, MS, from beautiful beaches to family-friendly activities.
1.3 MGM Park
MGM Park hosts the Biloxi Shuckers, a Double-A baseball affiliate. Families flock here for affordable tickets and family-themed promotions. The stadium sits near the casinos, offering easy pre- or post-game entertainment. Popcorn, hot dogs, and classic ballpark vibes fill the air. When baseball’s off-season hits, concerts or festivals often utilize the space.
- Game Tickets: Generally $10–$18, depending on seat choice.
- Food & Drink: Expect southern favorites like fried catfish and hush puppies.
- Local Tip: Watch for fireworks shows after select home games.
2. Explore Biloxi’s Rich History & Cultural Attractions
Biloxi boasts a storied past. From a landmark lighthouse to a museum featuring famed Gulf Coast art, each site provides insight into the city’s heritage.
2.1 Biloxi Lighthouse
The Biloxi Lighthouse stands as a symbol of resilience. Built in 1848, it weathered storms and changing tides. Guided tours bring you up its spiral staircase for sweeping city and gulf views. You’ll hear tales of keepers braving hurricanes. Sunrise visits paint the tower in gentle light, perfect for photos.
- Tour Times: Usually morning to early afternoon.
- Ticket Cost: Around $5 per adult, often discounted for kids.
- Photography Tip: Snap pictures from across Highway 90 for a frame of beach and lighthouse.
f you enjoy exploring charming Southern towns, consider visiting Laurel, Mississippi, home to historic architecture, local art, and famous filming locations.
2.2 Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art
Frank Gehry’s bold architecture greets you at the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum. Inside, ceramics by George E. Ohr, the self-proclaimed “Mad Potter of Biloxi,” showcase whimsical shapes and swirling glazes. Contemporary exhibits rotate, featuring local and international artists. The open courtyards encourage casual strolling under the Mississippi sun.
- Admission: $10–$12 for adults, discounts for students.
- Must-See Piece: Ohr’s signature vases with vibrant color blends.
- Bonus: A café on-site provides light bites and a place to chat about the exhibits.
2.3 Hurricane Katrina Memorial
Hurricane Katrina devastated Biloxi in 2005. This memorial honors the community’s resilience and remembers lives lost. An awe-inspiring mosaic stands, crafted from remnants of the storm. Visitors often leave in quiet reflection. Though solemn, it’s essential for grasping Biloxi’s deep-rooted ties to the sea and storms.
- Location: Downtown Biloxi, near the shoreline.
- Entry: Free to visit, open year-round.
- Cultural Significance: Locals see it as a symbol of hope and unity.
3. Experience the Natural Beauty & Outdoor Activities in Biloxi
Beyond the casinos, Biloxi lures travelers with sunlit beaches, protected islands, and nature trails teeming with wildlife.
3.1 Biloxi Beach
Biloxi Beach stretches along the Gulf, offering easy access near popular casinos. Soft sands invite sunbathers, while shallow waters suit wading or throwing a frisbee. Pier fishing draws locals at dawn. Weekend evenings might bring beachside concerts. Free parking lines parts of Highway 90, though early arrivals land the best spots.
- Activities: Swimming, sandcastle building, or simply unwinding.
- Facilities: Some restrooms, plus open-air showers in certain areas.
- Cost: Free beach entry, but certain lot fees can apply on busy weekends.
For those looking to venture beyond Mississippi, check out Upstate New York’s top attractions, which include breathtaking natural scenery and historic sites.
3.2 Ship Island & Fort Massachusetts
A ferry ride from the Biloxi Visitor Center whisks you to Ship Island. Pristine Gulf waters frame the island’s powdery beaches. Pack sunscreen, snacks, and plenty of water. On arrival, visit Fort Massachusetts—an old brick fortress dating to the mid-1800s. Spot dolphins on the ferry if you’re lucky.
- Ferry Fare: About $30 round trip for adults, cheaper for kids.
- Why Go: Quiet sands, fewer crowds, and a slice of American maritime history.
- Local Tip: No shade structures on the island. Bring an umbrella or rent on-site.
3.3 Gulf Islands National Seashore
The Gulf Islands National Seashore spans multiple Mississippi barrier islands. Boating, kayaking, or fishing top the list. Birdwatchers come for pelicans and ospreys. Hiking trails wind through pine forests, sometimes revealing alligators or raccoons. Pack bug spray, particularly at dusk.
- Nature Focus: Mangroves, salt marshes, and seagrass meadows.
- Kayak Tours: Usually $40–$80, lasting a few hours.
- Best Season: Spring or early fall for mild weather and fewer mosquitoes.
4. Enjoy Unique Biloxi Attractions & Local Experiences
Local charm extends beyond beaches and casinos. Maritime heritage, shrimping adventures, and hidden islands add flavor to any itinerary.
4.1 Biloxi Shrimping Trip
Climb aboard a shrimping vessel for an authentic maritime experience. Crews explain the life cycle of gulf shrimp as nets skim the water. Watch as the day’s catch flips and flutters in the net. You’ll learn about local species and the gulf’s ecology. Some tours let you taste cooked shrimp on deck.
- Tour Cost: Roughly $20–$30 per adult.
- Duration: 70–90 minutes, departing from Biloxi harbor.
- Kiddie Bonus: Educational for children who love marine life.
4.2 Deer Island
Deer Island hugs Biloxi’s coastline, yet remains lightly developed. Kayaks and small boats offer the best approach. Once you land, walk the sandy trails amid coastal vegetation. Local folklore claims pirate treasure once hid here. Even if not, the calm inshore waters invite peaceful swimming or picnicking.
- Boat Rentals: Kayak rentals from $40 half-day.
- Wildlife Spotting: Sea birds, crabs, and fish in shallow grass beds.
- Plan: Bring water, snacks, and ensure your phone is sealed in a dry bag.
4.3 Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum
Biloxi’s seafood roots run deep. This museum chronicles that heritage with exhibits on shrimping, oystering, and wooden boat building. Antique photos and models detail how local families forged maritime livelihoods. You can even step aboard classic Biloxi schooners. Kids enjoy interactive maritime displays.
- Admission: $10–$12 for adults, discounted for kids or seniors.
- Exhibit Must-See: The shrimp-peeling machine that revolutionized local processing.
- Time Needed: 1–2 hours to browse thoroughly.
5. Family-Friendly Fun & Shopping in Biloxi, MS
Traveling with kids or seeking retail therapy? Biloxi presents engaging spots to delight parents and little ones alike.
5.1 Big Play Entertainment Center
Big Play merges arcades, go-karts, laser tag, and mini-golf under one roof. Kids can burn off energy on neon-lit lanes or bumper cars. Outside, go-kart tracks fuel friendly racing rivalries. The snack bar sells typical amusements like pizza and funnel cakes. Weekend nights can get crowded.
- Pricing: Start with $20–$30 for combo packages.
- Recommended Age: Activities for ages 5+; certain rides have height restrictions.
- Tip: Visit mid-afternoon to avoid peak lines.
5.2 Edgewater Mall
Edgewater Mall has big-name retailers, from fashion to electronics. Indoor amusements for children, like mini-rides or a carousel, break up the shopping monotony. Food courts hawk southern staples, while department stores host frequent sales. Parents can rest at a café while teens browse.
- Major Stores: Dillard’s, JCPenney, plus smaller boutiques.
- Dining Range: Fast-food to casual sit-down.
- Cost: No entrance fee, just pay for your finds.
5.3 Old Biloxi Cemetery
A cemetery may not scream “family attraction,” but Old Biloxi Cemetery weaves local lore into a fascinating stroll. Gravestones date back centuries. Guided ghost tours after dark enthrall older kids. You’ll learn about Biloxi’s founding families and famous city figures. The maritime epitaphs speak volumes about seafaring life.
- Admission: Free for self-guided visits.
- Tours: Some ghost tours cost $15–$20.
- Spooky Factor: Perfect for those who love a tinge of mystery.
Quick Guide to the 15 Best Things to Do in Biloxi, MS
| Attraction Name | Type | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Beau Rivage Resort & Casino | Casino | Luxury gaming, live shows |
| Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Biloxi | Casino | Live music, rooftop bar |
| MGM Park | Sports & Entertainment | Home of Biloxi Shuckers |
| Biloxi Lighthouse | Historic Landmark | Oldest cast-iron lighthouse |
| Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art | Art & Culture | Frank Gehry-designed museum |
| Hurricane Katrina Memorial | Historical Site | Honors Katrina victims |
| Biloxi Beach | Beach & Recreation | Popular for swimming & sunbathing |
| Ship Island & Fort Massachusetts | Outdoor Adventure | Ferry tours & historic fort |
| Gulf Islands National Seashore | Nature & Wildlife | Hiking, birdwatching, kayaking |
| Biloxi Shrimping Trip | Maritime Experience | Hands-on shrimping tour |
| Deer Island | Outdoor Adventure | Kayaking & picnicking |
| Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum | Museum | Gulf Coast seafood history |
| Big Play Entertainment Center | Family Fun | Bowling, arcade, mini-golf |
| Edgewater Mall | Shopping & Dining | Indoor amusements & retail shops |
| Old Biloxi Cemetery | Historic Attraction | Guided ghost & history tours |
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Visiting Biloxi, MS
1. What is Biloxi, MS best known for?
Biloxi is famous for its bustling casinos, fresh seafood, and scenic Gulf Coast beaches. It’s also a maritime hub, showcasing a long tradition of shrimping and boat building.
2. What are the best free things to do in Biloxi, MS?
Biloxi Beach offers free sun and sand. Strolling the Old Biloxi Cemetery or visiting the Hurricane Katrina Memorial also cost nothing. The Gulf Islands National Seashore has free entry for some areas.
3. What is the best time to visit Biloxi?
Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) boast pleasant weather and lighter crowds. Summers can be hot and humid, though the beach remains enticing. Hurricane season spans June–November, so monitor forecasts.
4. How far is Biloxi from New Orleans?
Biloxi is roughly 90 miles east of New Orleans. The drive typically takes 1.5 hours along I-10, making Biloxi a perfect day trip or weekend escape.
5. What seafood is Biloxi famous for?
Gulf shrimp leads the pack. Oysters, crawfish, and fried fish also shine on local menus. Don’t skip a platter at one of the many dockside eateries. For deeper insights, visit the Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum.
Conclusion
Biloxi captures the spirit of the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Casinos glisten by the shoreline, while old lighthouses and museums echo its maritime past. Beaches beckon day trippers, and shrimp boats ply the waves. The things to do in Biloxi, MS span lively gaming floors, quiet nature trails, and storied cemeteries that whisper history. In 2025, this city thrives as a destination for families, gamblers, and curious travelers.
Ready to plan your trip? Dive into a shrimping excursion or lounge on Biloxi Beach. Catch a Biloxi Shuckers game or learn about ceramics at Ohr-O’Keefe. If you’ve visited Biloxi’s must-see spots, share your tips in the comments. And if you know someone seeking sun and southern charm, send them this guide. Enjoy Biloxi’s coastal magic!
Practical Tips and Official Resource
- Approximate Costs:
- Beau Rivage Casino: Rooms from $120 nightly
- Ship Island Ferry: $30 round trip adult fare
- Big Play Entertainment combos: $20–$30
- Weather: Mild winters, hot summers. Watch hurricane advisories (June–November).
- Official Site: Visit Mississippi Gulf Coast for event listings and travel updates.