From stunning seascapes and swamplands to STEM centers and maritime history, Coastal Mississippi captivates learners.
Student groups traveling to Coastal Mississippi will unearth a multitude of unique experiences throughout the diverse ecosystem, offering plenty to learn about. Outdoor explorations include a real-life shrimping expedition and a visit to Mississippi’s backyard for water play and maritime sights. INFINITY Science Center lets students interact with exhibits in space exploration, earth science, and technology, while the Mississippi Aquarium shows them an exciting underwater world.
Educational adventures spring to life up and down our 62-mile shoreline. With so many learning opportunities, students will need more than just an afternoon to see the sights and touch a stingray. So, if you’re planning on spending several days exploring the ins and outs of Coastal Mississippi’s student attractions, use this itinerary to make the most of your well-spent time when you visit!
Looking for tools to streamline your next trip? Explore our planning guide today.
The INFINITY Science Center provides unique exhibits showcasing space exploration, advanced technology and more. Photo credit: Coastal Mississippi
DAY 1: Student Activities in Mississippi
Begin your trip at the INFINITY Science Center in Pearlington, just off the interstate on the shores of the Pearl River. Students will explore interactive exhibits and hands-on activities, delving into space exploration, earth sciences and technology.
Afterward, enjoy LUNCH along Highway 90 as you head towards Gulfport. With homestyle cooking, seafood options, fresh delis and more to choose from, there isn’t a wrong choice.
Next, visit Mississippi Aquarium, where students can explore a 5.8-acre indoor/outdoor campus featuring 12 fresh and saltwater habitats and over 200 species of aquatic animals on an instructor-led tour. Visit Pelican Pointe Café for snacks and the gift shop for unique souvenirs.
Shuttle across the newly constructed CTA Tram Bridge to Jones Park and experience a replica lighthouse, municipal harbor, splash pads, pavilions, and a curving promenade walk—all with stunning views.
Close out the first day of adventuring with DINNER at Shaggy’s Gulfport Beach for fresh fare in a fun island atmosphere.
Students can participate in guided group tours of the Museum for immersive learning experiences. Photo credit Coastal Mississippi
DAY 2: Museums and More for Students
After breakfast, travel to Ocean Springs and see the sights of the Walter Anderson Museum of Art. Embark on a guided tour that illuminates Coastal Mississippi as an artistic community and celebrates the legacy of artist-philosopher Walter Inglis Anderson (1903-1965).
Enjoy fresh seafood for LUNCH in Ocean Springs or across the bridge in Biloxi.
Visit Biloxi, the historical Seafood Capital of the World, and see just how far the communities and people have come in the industry. See the Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum, where students will discover over 300 years of history, heritage and culture through unique artifacts and vintage photos. Exhibits highlight shrimping, oystering, boat building, and hurricane impacts, showing the resilience and camaraderie of our communities.
At the Biloxi Small Craft Harbor, board the Sailfish for a real-life shrimping expedition with Biloxi Shrimping Trip. Explore the Mississippi Sound aboard the vessel, see how shrimpers bring their catch from the Gulf to our table, and witness the heart of the Coast’s seafood industry firsthand.
Bring your appetite for DINNER at Big Play Entertainment Center. This eatery provides big bites and big fun through their evening meals along with bowling, go-karts, carnival rides, bumper cars, mini golf, and more. Then, return to your hotel to prepare for one more spectacular day of learning on the Coast.
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DAY 3: Final Day in Coastal Mississippi
After you check out of your hotel, head on over to Moss Point and the Pascagoula River Audubon Center for immersive experiences in the distinctive local ecosystem. Take a tour down the river, rent a kayak, or embark on a pedal boat with a friend.
Have LUNCH in Moss Point at any of its delicious restaurants. Staples like The Heritage House Restaurant, Lakeview Catfish Restaurant, and Tay’s Barbeque are perfect places to get a hearty meal in Coastal Mississippi.
Afterward, visit the Gulf Coast Gator Ranch & Tours to walk along some of the most beautiful swamplands and experience gators up close. Learn about the Coast’s freshwater wildlife with an informative guide.
Then, the only thing left to do is head back home and plan your next trip to Coastal Mississippi. After all, students will have even more to enjoy the second time they come and visit our Coastal communities. Opportunities to learn, grow and prosper abound along our shoreline, in our museums, through our rivers and in every smile you meet along the way.
For more information, feel free to reach out and schedule a visit today! Your educational adventure awaits whenever students learn and Play Coastal!
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