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Ocean Springs, Mississippi: Where Fun and Adventure Meet – The Ultimate Guide to the Best Things to Do and Places to Visit!

Looking for a coastal town worth the drive? Ocean Springs, Mississippi is the answer. This town runs historical landmarks, a working art and culture scene, and plenty to do outdoors. Travelling on your own or with somebody, Ocean Springs covers both.

If you follow history, the town’s historical landmarks will hold you, the Walter Anderson Museum of Art and the Ocean Springs Historic L&N Train Depot among them. And if you follow art, do not miss the town’s art and culture scene, which runs galleries, studios and public art installations.

But that is not all of it. Ocean Springs also runs plenty outdoors, from hiking and kayaking to fishing and birdwatching. And no trip to a coastal town is finished without time on the beach. With plenty of beaches to choose from, you will find the stretch of sand you want.

Key Takeaways

• Ocean Springs, Mississippi offers a charming coastal getaway with plenty of historical landmarks, art and culture, and outdoor adventures.
• Explore the town’s many historical landmarks, including the Walter Anderson Museum of Art and the Ocean Springs Historic L&N Train Depot.
• Enjoy the town’s thriving art and culture scene, beautiful beaches, and opportunities for outdoor adventures.

The Charm of Ocean Springs, Mississippi

Washington Avenue is the walk out here and everything downtown runs straight off the top of it. Front Beach gets busy on the weekends out there, so take the East Beach Drive instead. The Sandhill Crane refuge runs the guided tours out there if you want one of them. Gulf Islands National Seashore is where all of the camping and the fishing are out there. Six.

Ocean Springs, Mississippi. This is a town that carries itself well. On the Gulf of Mexico, it runs everything you need for a stretch that slows you down.

First, the town itself. It has the small-town pace that is hard to find now. You will meet locals who will start a conversation and then help you with whatever you actually needed. The downtown carries it most, with its shops and restaurants. And take a walk down Washington Avenue for the historic homes.

But what sets Ocean Springs apart is the water on every side. The town is surrounded by it, and there is plenty of it to work. Take a walk along the beach, fish, or rent a kayak and work the bayous. And if you time it, a dolphin or two will come through.

And no trip to Ocean Springs is finished without the Walter Anderson Museum of Art. This museum holds the work of the Mississippi artist known for painting the flora and fauna of the Gulf Coast. It earns the stop for anybody who follows art or the natural world.

In short, Ocean Springs is a town that gets hold of you. A slow trip or a week with plenty in it, this place covers both. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get down to the Gulf Coast.

Historical Landmarks

If you follow history, Ocean Springs, Mississippi runs landmarks that put the years back on you. Here are the ones to take:

Walter Anderson Museum of Art

The Walter Anderson Museum of Art earns the stop for anybody interested in the life and work of this Mississippi artist. Anderson was known for watercolours and murals of the flora and fauna of the Gulf Coast. The museum holds a deep collection of his work, along with rotating exhibits from other artists. It is where to spend a morning and come out knowing the art and culture of this region.

Fort Maurepas City Park and Nature Preserve

If you want history and country together, Fort Maurepas City Park and Nature Preserve is the spot. The park holds the ruins of Fort Maurepas, built in 1699 by the French explorer Pierre Le Moyne d’Iberville. The fort was the first European settlement in the Mississippi Gulf Coast region. Today you can work the ruins, walk the beach, or take the nature trails.

Charnley-Norwood House

The Charnley-Norwood House is a historic home designed by the architect Louis Sullivan. The house was built in 1890 and is held as one of the most important examples of Sullivan’s work. The house has been restored and is now open for tours. It is how to see what life was in the late 19th century and work the architecture of the period.

So art, country, or architecture, Ocean Springs runs all three. Do not miss these historical landmarks on your next trip.

Art and Culture Scene

If you want art and culture in Ocean Springs, you will not be short. From downtown galleries to pottery studios, this town covers it. Here are the spots to take:

Downtown Galleries

Downtown Ocean Springs runs a working arts scene, with galleries showing the work of local and national artists. Take a walk down Washington Avenue and you will find plenty to work. Painting, sculpture or mixed media, something there will catch you.

Shearwater Pottery

If you follow pottery, you cannot miss Shearwater Pottery. This studio has been making pottery by hand since 1928, and collectors want the pieces. Work the showroom for the newest work, or take a tour of the studio and watch the artists at it.

Coastal Magpie

For art and design mixed together, check out Coastal Magpie. This boutique runs the work of local artists, along with vintage finds and home decor you will not see twice. A piece of jewelry nobody else has or a piece of furniture with real character, both are in there.

The art and culture in Ocean Springs earns the time. Serious collector or simply somebody after something to do, there is plenty to work. So put your walking shoes on and take what this city runs.

Outdoor Adventures

Looking for time outdoors in Ocean Springs, Mississippi? You have timed it, because there is plenty here to keep you going.

Gulf Islands National Seashore

If you follow the natural world, do not miss the Gulf Islands National Seashore. This chain of parks runs across Mississippi and Florida, with the Gulf of Mexico opening out along it. Take a walk through the Davis Bayou Area, where the hiking trails run easy along the water and through light woods. You can also camp, fish, and eat outdoors with the country in front of you.

Mississippi Sandhill Crane National Wildlife Refuge

For anybody who follows birds and wildlife, the Mississippi Sandhill Crane National Wildlife Refuge earns the stop. This refuge holds the endangered Mississippi Sandhill Crane, along with a range of other species. Take a guided tour and work the refuge and what lives on it, or take the hiking trails on your own. And bring your binoculars.

Fontainebleau Nature Trail

Looking for somewhere the country does the work? Putting the Fontainebleau Nature Trail on the list is one of the strongest things to do in Ocean Springs, MS. This trail works for hiking, birdwatching and simply being outdoors. Keep your eyes up for wildlife such as deer, rabbits and squirrels as you work through the forest.

So get out there and work the country around Ocean Springs, Mississippi. Camping, eating outdoors, fishing, or simply walking, this place runs all of it.

Beach Life

On beaches in Ocean Springs, you have two options: Front Beach and East Beach Drive. Each runs its own pace, so pick properly.

Front Beach

Front Beach is where to be if you want people around you. This is where it all happens, from beach volleyball to jam sessions that start out of nothing. And if you time it, a dolphin or two will come through.

But be warned, because Front Beach gets busy, especially on weekends and over holidays. If crowds are not for you, take the other one.

East Beach Drive

If you want the slower beach, head over to East Beach Drive. This stretch of sand works for a day in the sun, with room to spread out and nobody standing over you.

There is also a walking path running along the beach, so you can take a slow walk with the water beside you. And if you want a run at something, rent a kayak or paddleboard and work the bayou nearby.

Whichever beach you take, bring plenty of sunscreen and water. And get in the Gulf, because that is what the whole thing is for.

Washington Avenue holds the galleries and Government Street holds all the shops. Shearwater Pottery sits out on its own and Coastal Magpie is down in town. Front Beach and East Beach Drive are the two stretches of sand out here. The Davis Bayou Area is the part of the Seashore closest to the town. And the Biloxi Bay Bridge runs right out across the water from here.

Culinary Delights

On food, Ocean Springs covers most tastes. From local seafood to French pastries, you will not be short. Here are the places to take:

Local Restaurants

If you want seafood done properly, check out The Shed BBQ & Blues Joint. They serve some of the strongest BBQ on the coast, and the seafood holds up alongside it. Their fried shrimp po’boy or their smoked tuna dip will both land.

For something smarter, head over to Vestige. This restaurant runs a rotating menu of seasonal dishes built on locally sourced ingredients. What arrives looks too worked to eat, but you will eat it.

French Kiss Pastries

If you want something sweet, you cannot miss French Kiss Pastries. This bakery serves French pastries, cakes and macarons. The croissants come out flaky and buttery, and the fruit tarts are almost too good to break into. Almost.

Fort Bayou Brewing Company

Looking for a cold beer? Fort Bayou Brewing Company is the answer. This local brewery runs a rotating selection of craft beers, from IPAs to stouts. And they run outdoor seating, which works for a pint in the Mississippi sun.

Seafood, pastries or beer, Ocean Springs runs all three. So bring your appetite and get on with it.

Where to Stay

On somewhere to sleep in Ocean Springs, you have options. A beachfront hotel or a bed and breakfast, both are here. Here are two to weigh up:

The Roost

If you want somewhere you will not get elsewhere, The Roost is the answer. This boutique hotel sits in a restored historic building and runs six suites, each carrying its own character. The rooms run a mix of vintage and modern furnishings, with local artwork on the walls.

One of the strongest things about The Roost is the detail. From the oyster shell walls to the 200-year-old tub in one of the suites, somebody has thought about every part of it. And if you follow food, the on-site restaurant runs coastal cooking that holds up.

Gulf Hills

If you want a straightforward hotel, Gulf Hills is a strong option. This beachfront hotel runs comfortable rooms with everything you need for a slow stay. And if you want to stay moving, there is plenty on site, a golf course, tennis courts and a swimming pool.

But what carries Gulf Hills is where it sits. Right on the beach, you step out onto the sand. And if you want to work the town, Gulf Hills is a short drive from downtown Ocean Springs, with restaurants, shops and galleries waiting.

Wherever you stay in Ocean Springs, the time will hold. So pack your bags, book your room, and take what this town runs.

Shopping Spree

If shopping is what you do, then Ocean Springs is where to do it. Get ready to work the shops that line the streets of this town.

Government Street

Government Street is the main shopping in Ocean Springs. This street runs shops covering different interests. From clothing boutiques to art galleries, you will find everything you need for a proper morning of it.

Hillyer House

If you want something to carry home, Hillyer House is the place. This shop runs handcrafted work made by local artists. You will find everything from pottery to jewelry to paintings. It is where to find a souvenir nobody else will have.

The Bay Collection

The Bay Collection earns the stop for anybody who follows home decor. This shop runs a carefully chosen selection of furniture, lighting and accessories that will change a room. A statement piece or simply an idea, The Bay Collection has both.

So grab your bags and get out onto the streets of Ocean Springs. With this many shops to work, something will catch you.

Festivals and Events

Ocean Springs is known for its festivals and events through the year. Local or visitor, you will find something that lands. Here are the festivals and events to take:

• Mardi Gras: You don’t have to go to New Orleans to experience the excitement of Mardi Gras. Ocean Springs has its own version of the famous festival, complete with colorful parades, live music, and delicious food.
• Spring Arts Festival: Herb, Garden & Art: If you’re a fan of art and nature, this festival is perfect for you. You’ll get to enjoy beautiful artwork and learn about herbs and gardening from experts.
• Taste of Ocean Springs Food & Wine Festival: If you’re a foodie, you won’t want to miss this festival. You’ll get to sample some of the best food and wine that Ocean Springs has to offer.
• Cruisin’ the Coast: This is one of the biggest car shows in the country, and it’s held right here in Ocean Springs. You’ll get to see some of the most beautiful and unique cars you’ve ever seen.
• Peter Anderson Arts & Crafts Festival: This festival is a must-see for anyone who loves arts and crafts. You’ll get to see some of the best local artists and craftsmen showcasing their work.

Whatever you follow, there will be a festival or event in Ocean Springs that fits. So get your friends or family together and take it.

Memorable Activities for Couples

Looking for something to do in Ocean Springs with somebody? Here are a couple of ideas that will hold the trip together.

Biloxi Bay Bridge Walk

What works better than a walk with somebody? But why take an ordinary sidewalk when you can walk the Biloxi Bay Bridge? This 1.6-mile bridge opens the Gulf Coast out below you and it is where people stop halfway. Just hold on if heights are not your thing.

Boat Tours

If you and the person you came with want something with more in it, take a boat tour. There are plenty of options, whether you want fishing, dolphin watching, or simply a run round the bay. You get the country around Ocean Springs and you get to sit close on the way. Just do not forget the sunscreen.

Whatever you do in Ocean Springs with somebody, give it the time. That is the part that actually matters.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some fun activities for families in Ocean Springs, besides arguing about where to eat?

Beyond arguing about where to eat, which is its own tradition, there is plenty in Ocean Springs that works with families. You can take the Walter Anderson Museum of Art, which runs exhibits and programmes at any age. Or, if you want a run at something, take a kayak tour of the Gulf Islands National Seashore. And you can always take one of the parks or beaches for a day in the sun.

Are there any restaurants in Ocean Springs that serve food that’s not just fried?

Believe it or not, there are plenty of restaurants in Ocean Springs serving food that is not fried. One of ours is Mosaic Tapas Bar, which runs small plates built for sharing. And if you want something smarter, check out Vestige, which runs a rotating menu of locally sourced seasonal ingredients.

What are some romantic things to do in Ocean Springs that won’t make me look like a creep?

We cannot promise you will not look like a creep, but here is what works in Ocean Springs. Take a sunset cruise on the Gulf of Mexico, or eat at one of the waterfront restaurants. And if you want a real run at something, take a hot air balloon ride over the Mississippi countryside.

Is it true that Ocean Springs has a beach or is it just a mirage?

Yes, it is true. Ocean Springs has a beach, and it holds up. Front Beach is where people go for swimming, sitting in the sun and eating outdoors, and it also runs events through the year. And if you want somewhere quieter, head over to East Beach, which runs at a slower pace.

What’s the most exciting event that’s ever happened in Ocean Springs, besides me visiting?

We hate to break it to you, but your visit is probably not the biggest thing to happen in Ocean Springs. That is likely the annual Peter Anderson Arts & Crafts Festival, which pulls thousands of people in every year. But you never know. You may have such a strong time that you start your own Ocean Springs tradition.

Frequently asked questions about Ocean Springs, Mississippi

Which beach in Ocean Springs is the quiet one of them, then, really now, these days out there?

East Beach Drive out there, with room to spread right out and nobody standing over you. There is a walking path running along the whole of it there if you want to move. Front Beach is the busy one instead of that, with all the volleyball and the jam sessions. Sunscreen.

What exactly is inside the Walter Anderson museum of art at Ocean Springs, then, really now?

The work of Walter Anderson, who painted the flora and the fauna of this whole coast. You get the watercolours and all of the murals, along with all the rotating exhibits. It is where to spend a whole morning and come out knowing the whole region. Dolphins.

How long exactly is the Biloxi Bay bridge walk at Ocean Springs, then, really now, these days?

A 1.6-mile bridge out there, and it opens the whole of the Gulf Coast out below you. It works for a walk with somebody, which is what most people actually take it for. Just hold on tight if the heights are not your thing up there. Tours.

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