biloxi historic tours biloxi ms

Historic Biloxi Walking Tour

Biloxi boasts a long and sometimes turbulent history, dating from 1699 when Pierre Lemoyne, Sieur d’Iberville sailed into the Mississippi Sound. The city grew from a quiet village into a thriving seafood center by the 1890s, with immigrants from Croatia/Slovenia, Bohema and later Louisiana Acadians harvesting the abundant shrimp and oysters. For most of the early 20th century, the seafood industry sustained the city’s economy. With the creation of Keesler Army Field in 1939 (now Keesler Air Force Base), Biloxi grew in national significance and population. During the 1970s Vietnamese immigrants settled in the city, locating primarily on Point Cadet – a district that was a cultural blend of new and old. In 1992 a new industry grew in Biloxi – casino gambling. With the economic boom spurred by legalized gaming in 1992 and the destruction wrought by Hurricane Katrina in 2005, Biloxi continues to strive to balance its ties to the past with its vision for the future.

Walking Tour Stops

• Katrina Memorial
• Old Biloxi Library
• The Clemens House
• Scherer House
• Brunet-Fourchy House
• Magnolia Hotel
• Rue Magnolia
• Henriques-Slay House
• Creole Cottage
• Cousins House
• Cathedral of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary
• Saenger Theatre
• Vieux Marche
• Eistetter Building
• Number 2 Mechanics Fire Company
• Dukate Theatre
• Old Peoples Bank
• Peoples Bank Building
• Original U.S. Post Office
• Redding House
• Biloxi Tricentennial Mosaic

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Mailing Address: P.O. Box 8005 Biloxi, MS 39535

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Learn about Biloxi, Mississippi, on a guided historic tour of the town.

Biloxi, Mississippi, was founded in 1838, and its historic lighthouse symbolizes the perseverance of this small coastal town. The Biloxi Historic Tours allows visitors to see all of its historic sites via the "shrimp train," as the locals call it. The "shrimp train" is a train on wheels, making it possible for visitors to see the sights from the comfort of their seats. This train tour has been around for over 60 years, and the current owner is Carla Taconi.

Reservations are required, so call ahead to confirm when tours are available. Admission rates are $15 per guest (ages 12+) and $5 for children ages 6-11. Please note that they do not accept credit cards. If you're looking for something fun to do on the gulf coast, join one of the Biloxi Historic Tours.

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Biloxi Tour Train

Rolling strong for more than 60 years, this open-air train is a big part of Biloxi’s tourism history. The “SHRIMP TRAIN” as it is known by locals rolls along with the changing times of Biloxi and everyone is welcome!

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MISSISSIPPI GULF COAST NATIONAL HERITAGE AREA

• Mississippi Department of Marine Resources
• 1141 Bayview Avenue Biloxi, MS, 39530
• (228) 523-4150
• [email protected]

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Biloxi Lighthouse

The Biloxi Lighthouse is Biloxi’s signature landmark and open for tours! Considered one of the most photographed sites on the Gulf Coast, the tour of the historic 65-foot tall structure involves climbing 57 steps of a spiral staircase inside the lighthouse, and climbing an eight-rung ladder topped by a 19-by-23-inch trap door into the light room. Along the way, visitors view the waterlines from hurricanes dating back more than a hundred years as they ascend its spiral staircase. Constructed in 1848, The Biloxi Lighthouse was one of the first cast-iron structures erected in the South, and believed to be the only lighthouse situated in the middle of a major highway. The structure stands 65-feet tall, from its base to the tip of the weather vane atop the lighthouse, and it is 14 feet, 10 inches wide at its base. Please be advised the climb is strenuous and not for the faint of heart. If you have difficulty climbing or descending stairs unassisted, you should not attempt the tour. Those making the climb should be at least 42 inches tall.  Monday through Saturday 9am, 9:15am & 9:30am (weather permitting). Admission Charged.  Group discounts available, but reservations required. Virtually explore the Biloxi Lighthouse!

Highway 90 & Porter Avenue Biloxi, MS 39530

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Downtown Biloxi

The main section of downtown Biloxi is concentrated east and west along Howard Avenue, which was called Pass Christian-Point Cadet Road until 1896.  The antebellum boom of the resort and waterborne trade resulted in the development of the first hotels along the beachfront between Reynoir and Lameuse Streets.  Businesses interspersed with homes then expanded  north along Lameuse Street and west on Pass Christian Road.  The 1870 arrival of the railroad caused the extension of the business district along north Reynoir to the train depot.  Disastrous fires in 1884, 1889, and 1900 destroyed most of downtown’s wooden structures, they resulted in the construction of brick buildings.

After traveling along Howard Avenue for two tenths of a mile, turn right (south) onto Lameuse Street and go three tenths of a mile towards Highway 90 (Beach Boulevard).  Turn left (east) into the Town Green parking area.

10 Things To Do In Biloxi: Complete Guide To Beaches & Views

T he sweet subject of Jimmy Buffett songs, Mardi Gras celebrations, and maritime history, it’s no wonder Biloxi is considered a hidden gem on Mississippi’s “Secret Coast.” Located only an hour and a half drive from New Orleans, Biloxi has a taste of the Big Easy with endless stunning views of the serene Gulf of Mexico.

Biloxi has “belonged” to six different nations, including France, Spain, and England, over the course of its history, not to mention being the traditional home of the Biloxi tribe, who have inhabited this area for thousands of years. If it isn't already obvious, the city’s name comes from the Biloxi people themselves.

Hurricane Katrina hit Biloxi hard , but the Magnolia State has shown its resiliency in strides over the last 18 years. Many people moved away from the coast in the aftermath for fear of further hurricanes, but many also stayed to rebuild on her beautiful shores.

As Jimmy Buffett said, “Sun shines on Biloxi, Air is filled with vapors from the sea.” Come see why Biloxi is one of the most beautiful towns in Mississippi .

UPDATE: 2023/07/24 12:00 EST BY NICHOLAS MAYAMBA

There's More To Do In Biloxi

Biloxi has rebuilt after catastrophe struck, and tourism is back in full swing. See everything the city has to offer with this updated travel guide, complete with more things to do and see.

Related: 10 Things You'll Love Doing in Mississippi

Top Things To Do In Biloxi

Biloxi has no shortage of fun and interesting things to do for intrepid beach-goers.

From historical monuments and nature preserves to flashy casinos and fine dining experiences, Mississippi's Gulf Shores are a great example of what the American South has to offer in terms of entertainment and cultural experiences. Here are the best things to do in Biloxi, Mississippi.

Go Casino Hopping

Biloxi is home to eight world-class casinos, including the Beau Rivage Casino, Boomtown Casino, Golden Nugget Casino, Hard Rock Casino, Harrah's Casino, IP Casino, Palace Casino, and Treasure Bay Casino.

It's often called the "Vegas of the South" for its superb entertainment, dining, and gambling. Biloxi's casinos contribute a huge chunk of the city's tourism revenue, drawing gamblers from far and wide looking to get lucky. They host various casino games that guests can indulge in, such as roulette, slots, blackjack, and other table games.

Each casino provides a distinct gaming experience with different gaming options. For instance, those looking for a more upscale option with little expense to spare should consider Hard Rock, IP, or Beau Resort casinos.

Visit The City's Historic Sites

The area surrounding Biloxi has been inhabited for thousands of years and has seen French, Spanish, and English occupation and the Civil War, among other historical and cultural landmarks.

It's a great place to uncover the American South's often mystifying past.

The best historic sites to see in Biloxi include the Biloxi Lighthouse , the Maritime & Seafood History Museum , the Mardi Gras Museum , and the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art, where the "Mad Potter of Biloxi" art is on display.

Each historic site is interesting enough to deserve a spot on the itinerary. Tourists should plan their schedule to accommodate a tour of the historic venues.

Take The Kids To Gulf Islands Waterpark

Gulf Islands Waterpark is among the city's top attractions and arguably the best place for a family fun day out in Biloxi. Rated among the largest water parks on the Gulf Coast, the venue guarantees guests endless unadulterated entertainment for all ages.

There are at least 10 slides and rides at the waterpark, each offering a unique adrenaline-rushing experience.

Besides the slides, the park organizes live entertainment and fun food events, serving hot dogs, pizzas, and hamburgers.

• Admission : $46.99 for 42” and taller, $29.99 for under 42”.
• Hours : 10 am - 6 pm but may vary by month

Tourists can visit the Gulf Islands Waterpark website to check the ticket prices for the different rides and operation hours of the planned visitation day.

Related: These Mississippi Ghost Towns Are Worthy of a Spooky Road Trip

Bask On The Beach

While Biloxi Beach is a beautiful strip of sand with tranquil cerulean water, venturing just a bit further afield pays off in dividends.

A popular destination for sunbathers is Ship Island , just a one-hour ferry ride from the main beach.

• Admission : Adult tickets are $36 during weekdays and $41 for weekends, while children will cost only $30 during the week and $35 on weekends.
• Ferry schedule: Spring: March 18th to May 12th, Summer: May 13th to August 13th, Fall: August 16th to October 29th.

Unfortunately, vacationers traveling with their canine companions will have to leave them at the hotel as dogs are not allowed on the beach.

Attend A Biloxi Shuckers Game

Watching a Biloxi Shuckers Baseball game at MGM Park is an excellent way to spend quality time in the city. Everyone knows that minor league baseball games are more fun than the major leagues, and Biloxi's AA league, known as the Biloxi Shucker's, is a blast!

The arena has a 6000-seat capacity, and local fans show up in numbers to cheer on their home team on game day. When not hosting America's favorite pastime, MGM Park organizes concerts, shows, and other special events.

• Tickets : Prices vary depending on the seat location, rivals, and day. However, they generally start at $8

Take advantage of guided tours on nongame weekdays to learn more about the stadium; just call in advance to book the tour. It costs $6 per person.

Explore Biloxi's Abundant Nature

Biloxi might not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of visiting the pristine wilderness. Still, the river delta, brackish marshes, and oak savanna surrounding the "Secret Coast" are unforgettable.

The best place to see untouched Mississippi scenery is the Biloxi River Marshes Coastal Reserve . Eco Tourism in the Mississippi River Delta is a budding market and just starting to get the recognition it's always deserved.

Of course, a cruise on the Mississippi may also be a must-do item for vacationers' itineraries.

Honor The Departed At The Hurricane Katrina Memorial

Biloxi was among the worst-hit cities after Hurricane Katrina. The storm flattened its casinos and damaged its iconic lighthouse, with hundreds losing their lives. In 2006, crew members from the Extreme Makeover television show built a 12-foot-tall memorial to honor the lives lost and remember the devastation caused by the catastrophe.

The memorial features a black granite slab with a mosaic wave and a light gray granite mark at the top to showcase the depth of the water in Biloxi at the height of the storm.

• Admission : Free
• Hours : 24/7

Learn A New Skill At The Lynn Meadows Discovery Center

The Lynn Meadows Discovery Center is an exciting museum that sparks kids' interest in acquiring new skills. The facility features a 15,000-square-foot exhibit space, with the indoor display comprising an art studio where the little ones use props and costumes to mimic different professions, such as vets and train operators.

Meanwhile, the outdoor exhibit consists of several sunflower structures, a treehouse village, and an interactive space allowing kids to imagine interacting with neighbors. The facility further hosts classes to impart different skills like art and cooking.

• Admission : $10 per person
• Hours : Open daily, 10 am - 5 pm (Sundays, Noon- 5 pm)

To save a few coins, visit the Lynn Meadows Discovery Center for $6 on Sundays or for $3 after 3 pm on weekdays

Check Out The Biloxi Lighthouse

The Biloxi Lighthouse is a revered landmark and one of the most visited sites in the city. Completed in 1848, it's among the first cast-iron lighthouses erected in the South and was run by the locals before the U.S. Coast Guard took over in 1939.

Despite suffering considerable damage in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, it stands as a symbol of the city's resilience in the face of adversity.

At the lighthouse, travelers can take in panoramic views of the Gulf Coast and learn about the purpose and history of the landmark through the years.

• Admission : Adults $5, kids 2-12 $2
• Hours : Tours begin at 9 am, daily

The lighthouse hosts a single hourlong tour daily at 9 am, hence vacationers planning to be part of the contingent must arrive there early.

Go On A Biloxi Shrimping Trip

Mississippi is famed for its seafood heritage and shrimp is a mainstay in the city's standard recipe. The Biloxi Shrimping Trip offers first-timers the ideal opportunity for a behind-the-scenes experience of what goes into catching the state's most popular seafood.

The trip begins with shrimp nets getting cast into the sea with an event-by-event narration explaining to passengers what is happening at each stage.

As this happens, tourists enjoy encounters with varied marine life, with species like Blue Crabs, stingrays, and flounder spottings. This trip is informative, entertaining, and one of the most fun activities in Mississippi .

• Admission : Adults $20, Kids $12

What Is The Best Time To Visit Biloxi?

While summers can be swelteringly hot on the Gulf Coast, winter is a great time to visit the “Playground of the South.” November to March is the mildest time of year and is also considered the off-season and the best time to visit.

Temperatures range from highs in the mid-60s to lows in the mid-40 but most of the time, it’s a comfortable 55°-65°.

As temperatures rise from April to October, so do the prices. The start of Spring Break ushers in the high season in Biloxi and much of the Gulf Coast. The heat is on starting in May and into early September, with lows in the mid-70s and highs soaring well past the 90s.

Related: This Is What Visitors Will Experience On A Tour Of The Mississippi's Famed River Delta

Keep in mind that hurricane season is from August to early November. While it’s not guaranteed that there will be a hurricane, buying trip insurance is a good idea while traveling to Biloxi during this time of year.

The annual Crawfish Music Festival is held every year in April just after the Spring Break season for any who love a good jam session mixed with a low country boil.

Hurricane season is from June to early November on the Gulf Coast but really heats up from August to October. Be wary of traveling to Biloxi during this time and buy trip insurance just in case a storm blows in!

• Spring: March through May
• Summer: May through August
• Fall: September through November
• Winter: December through March

What To Know Before Visiting Biloxi

Biloxi is known for its luxurious casinos, fresh seafood, and sizzling sun.

It's a fun-loving paradise, a palm tree oasis mostly undiscovered and overshadowed by its neighbors, New Orleans and Destin, making it an excellent getaway for those searching for relaxation or letting down their hair.

But it's not all fun and games. Katrina and the rebuilding afterward were tough for the Gulf Coast. While many residents left, many also stayed to help rebuild in the wake of the devastating hurricane and came out on the other side all the stronger.

Biloxi is a gambling town, and while family-friendly, keep in mind that party-goers might be a bit raucous near the casinos and bars at night.

Spring break, from March to April, can be especially rowdy as American college students descend on the Gulf Coast beaches in droves, ready to blow off steam from the long school year.

How To Get Around Biloxi

There are several ways to get around Biloxi that are as efficient as they are inexpensive. Biloxi is a fairly small city after all, so it doesn't take long to drive or ride across town.

Even walking is a great option! Here are the best ways to get around Biloxi.

Casino Hopper

One of the best ways to get around Biloxi, and visit all the nearby casinos, is the Casino Hopper.

The Casino Hopper shuttles patrons between all eight of the casinos that line the ocean promenade. It runs every 25 minutes, 7 days a week.

• Hours : Monday-Saturday, 5:30 am - 9:26 pm, Sunday 8:30 am - 7:11 pm.
• Cost : $1.50 a ride.

Biloxi Beachcomber

A more quirky way to get around town, the Biloxi Beachcomber is a refurbished, historic trolley that runs back and forth on the beachfront strip to the beach, historic landmarks, and other popular tourist attractions.

• Hours : Monday -Saturday, 5:00 am to 8:45 pm.

Renting bikes is another great way to get around town quickly, especially considering that Biloxi is a fairly small town.

The best place to rent bikes in Biloxi is from the visitors center.

• Hours : Monday-Sunday, 8 am to 5 pm.
• Cost : $23 for 2 hours, $23 for 4 hours, or $32 for a full-day rental.

Uber/Lift or a traditional taxi are always good options for those who want to get somewhere as fast as possible.

Where To Stay In Biloxi

Biloxi has a wide range of accommodations to suit every budget. From penthouse suites at the opulent Beau Rivage Resort to a humble room at the DoubleTree, lodging options are plentiful.

Beau Rivage Resort

• Address: 875 Beach Blvd, Biloxi, MS 39530
• Amenities: TopGolf Swing Suite, arcade, outdoor pool, casino, eleven restaurants and bars.

Harrah's Gulf Coast

• Address: 280 Beach Blvd, Biloxi, MS 39530
• Amenities: Outdoor pool and hot tub, spa, six restaurants, casino.

Margaritaville Resort

• Address: 195 Beach Blvd, Biloxi, MS 39530
• Amenities: Rooftop water playground, eight restaurants and bars, waterfront.

Hard Rock Hotel

• Address: 777 Beach Blvd, Biloxi, MS 39530
• Amenities: On-site casino, swim-up bar, outdoor pool, cabanas, 24-hour fitness center, spa.

Palace Casino Resort

• Address: 158 Howard Ave, Biloxi, MS 39530
• Amenities: Smoke-free casino, spa, golf course, poolside bar, five restaurants, waterfront.

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Biloxi

• Address: 940 Beach Blvd, Biloxi, MS 39530
• Amenities: Room service, free parking, free WiFi, outdoor pool, beach.

Where To Eat In Biloxi

Biloxi is a southern comfort food lover's dream. From sumptuous biscuits and gravy to shrimp and grits and the famous crawfish boil, Mississippi won't disappoint.

With Biloxi's location on the Gulf of Mexico, fresh seafood is plentiful from fine dining to surf shack fare and everything in between.

• Best restaurants for breakfast: Le Cafe Beignet , Brick and Spoon , Lady Bird Cafe
• Best restaurants for lunch & dinner: Shaggy’s Biloxi Beach , Mary Mahoney’s Old French House , Half Shell Oyster House , Ole Biloxi Fillin’ Station , Desporte and Sons Seafood
• Best place to grab a beer: Fly Llama Brewery
• Best bars: The Mermaid Dive Bar , Martinis Biloxi , Sandbar Daiquiri Bar & Grill
• Best place to sip a coffee: Grind Coffee and Nosh

How To Spend The Perfect Day In Biloxi

A perfect day in Biloxi isn’t difficult to arrange, but that’s life in the coastal bayou of Mississippi. Slow and steady wins the race.

Start the day in Biloxi with a delicious coffee at Grind Coffee and Nash and savor it while watching the ocean lap against the sand.

Then, catch the ferry over to Ship Island for some of the most pristine beaches and ocean views on the Gulf Coast and a great place to relax, and all worries will melt away.

Afterward, grab some grub at Shaggy’s before gambling at one of the prestigious casinos that line the oceanfront.

Related: A Bucket-List guide To Mississippi, The Cheapest Place To Live (And Vacation) In

If gambling is not up to par, it's always possible to substitute the penny slots for the Mardi Gras Museum or a tour of the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art before heading over to MGM Park for a Biloxi Shucker's baseball game.

End the night dining on the freshest seafood in Mississippi at Mary Mahoney’s Old French House, where they’ve been dishing up southern comfort food for over 50 years.

End the evening by grabbing a nightcap at Fly Llama Brewery for a refreshing Fly Llager or one of their tropical seltzers.

Q: Is Biloxi, Mississippi Worth Visiting?

Is Biloxi worth visiting? Yes! White sand beaches, warm weather, historic experiences, and a ton of fun, Biloxi is a great place to visit! From its festive Mardi Gras celebrations to rival that of New Orleans , to the annual Crawfish Festival, Biloxi has a little something for everybody and no shortage of great things to do.

Q: Why is Biloxi, Mississippi Famous?

Biloxi has a long and storied history that dates back thousands of years. Aside from its rich historical ties, it's sometimes known as the "Vegas of the South" for world class casinos and entertainment options, but it's also one of the most beautiful cities in MS .

Q: Can You Swim in Biloxi Beach?

Yes! Biloxi is a great place to swim on the Gulf Coast of Mississippi. Powdered sugar beaches and plenty of sun mean that Biloxi is a premier destination in the south for swimming.

The Gulf of Mexico is known for being as calm as a lake, unlike its friend, The Atlantic. Relax and float away any and all worries in the salty sea.