Another can’t-miss in town is the Mississippi Aquarium, according to Buckel. The state aquarium offers an impressive array of marine life, plus experiences like the SeaTrek Encounter, which allows visitors to fully submerge underwater and observe fish, sharks, rays, and other animals up close.
For families, there’s Hippie Fish at Centennial Plaza, which Lambert describes as “a retro-inspired spot with elevated eats, cocktails, and two world-class mini golf courses tucked under the live oaks. It’s playful, unexpected, and pure coastal fun.”
At mealtime, wander down Fishbone Alley, an offbeat row of restaurants, bars, and music venues that features murals and street art from local artists. One highlight is Murky Waters BBQ, which serves up local specialties like burnt ends and blackened Gulf shrimp accompanied by live blues performances. The restaurant also features a wrought iron-closed courtyard that’s accessible from Fishbone Alley.
When it’s time to call it a night, head over to The Almanett Hotel & Bistro, which offers six spacious guest rooms, all with ocean views.
Bay St. Louis, Mississippi
The Amtrak station in Bay St. Louis places riders in the center of the city’s charming Old Town, a walkable and picturesque district home to local shops, restaurants, and a flourishing arts scene. Browse independent shops like Good Earth Records, Gallery 220, and the Shops at Century Hall. If you time your visit right, you could coincide with the city’s Second Saturday in the Bay, a monthly outdoor festival every second Saturday with live music and special shopping opportunities.
Another notable site in town is the Historic L&N Train Depot, which was featured in the Robert Redford and Natalie Wood movie This Property Is Condemned. Today, it houses the city’s Mardi Gras Museum and Alice Moseley Folk Art Museum.
Soak up unique coastal nature at the waterfront Buccaneer State Park. Hike along Pirates Alley Nature Trail, which is somewhat of a hidden gem, according to Buckel. The 1.8 mile, self-guided trail showcases regional wildlife like moss-draped oaks, magnolias, pelicans, egrets, and osprey. The park also offers 70 campsites with water and electricity set in a grassy field overlooking the Gulf.
For a beachfront lunch in a quirky atmosphere, try The Blind Tiger, which overlooks the city’s harbor and serves up local royal red shrimp with live music on the weekends. Sycamore House offers fine dining in an 1850s home that overlooks historic Main Street. Stop in for a modern take on Southern classics like turtle soup, poisson amandine, and savory crab and mushroom cheesecake.
If you’re overnighting, try out the new boutique Pearl Hotel, which offers 59 luxury suites, some of which overlook the local marina.
New Orleans
End your coastal adventure with a few days in New Orleans. While there are endless activities for visitors to the Crescent City, some of our must-dos include seeing a live jazz show at a venue like Spotted Cat Music Club, taking a harbor cruise on Steamboat Natchez, grabbing a beignet at Loretta’s Authentic Pralines, and touring the Bayou with Cajun Encounters. For more inspiration, check out our complete travel guide to New Orleans, including where to stay in New Orleans and the best restaurants in New Orleans.