Mississippi’s second largest city, Gulfport, is nestled on the southern shores of the state along the Gulf coast. Visitors come here for the warm Gulf waters and vast stretches of white sand at Gulfport Beach — a beloved spot that spans Biloxi and Long Beach. Take a dip in the refreshing water, pack a picnic to enjoy near the shore, or rent kayaks, paddleboards, aqua cycles, and jet skis from local outfitters. Nearby, you’ll find restaurants, cafes, and bars, where you can try a Gulfport favorite: charbroiled oysters. Dotted throughout maritime town are several art galleries and studios, where you can learn about local artists and admire art across all mediums. For a stunning view of the sunset, make your way to the Small Craft Harbor, which encompasses Urie Pier and Fisherman’s Village.

A great time to book vacation rentals in Gulfport, Mississippi, is during the early winter months, spring, and fall when temperatures are comfortable and serve as a pleasant backdrop for Gulfport’s outdoor activities. Winters tend to be cold and short, though if you plan to visit near the holiday season, make sure to check out the Gulfport Harbor once it’s been embellished with vibrant colors and spectacular Christmas lights and displays. Summers in Gulfport are typically long, with temperatures reaching sweltering heights. Even in the heat, you can explore Gulfport’s museums, art galleries, or check out the Gulf Coast Symphony Orchestra.

Mississippi Blues Trail

Once home to a thriving blues and jazz scene, Gulfport continues to uphold and honor blues music, which holda cultural significance to the region. The Mississippi Blues Trail, which runs through bustling city streets, churches, and train depots, is dotted with markers that share stories of bluesmen and women. This coastal town contains a stop along the trail, called the Gulfport Boogie. Check out the marker to learn about Gulfport’s connection to the blues.

Biloxi

A 30-minute drive east of Gulfport, you’ll find the neighboring coastal town of Biloxi. Check out the historic Biloxi Lighthouse, where you can ascend the 57-step spiral staircase, eight-rung ladder, and make your way through the trap door to access a panoramic view of the coastline. Another spot that provides sweeping views of the Gulf Coast, and requires less of a trek, is the Biloxi Bay Bridge. Biloxi is also home to the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art, where you can admire abstract art, modern sculptures, and ceramics.

The Mississippi Coast Model Railroad Museum

The Mississippi Coast Model Railroad Museum is brimming with more than 200 years of railroad history and features more than 80 model trains, multiple intricate outdoor gardens, and scale model train layouts, including elevated and ground level G scale trains, and four riding trains for children and adults. It is also home to the largest toy-brick railroad display in the state.