One of my favorite things to do when traveling with my family is visit the local tourism board or visitor center. Not only is it a great location to rest and get your bearings, but it’s also informative and at times, a fantastic attraction that can cost your family ZERO travel dollars.
My family and I travel to the Mississippi Gulf Coast regularly. My brother has lived in the Mississippi Gulf coast for over 15 years and it happens to be a great travel destinations for many families. The Mississippi Gulf Coast is located in a pivotal “travel arc” and is a short drive from Southeast Louisiana and the Alabama/Florida Panhandle.
Now that my youngest sister has relocated to the Biloxi/Gulfport area, I thought I would further expand my typical Ms. Gulf Coast visits and venture out on Beach Blvd. Located across the street from the Biloxi Lighthouse is the Biloxi Visitor Center.
I am embarrassed to admit that I have yet to the Biloxi Visitor Center and quite surprise in it’s size. The $11 Million dollar center opened in 2011 and offers a series of multimedia exhibits which shares Biloxi history and offers latest information on area attractions, local events and dining options.
The 24,000 square foot center was built to replicate the Dantzler House, a city-owned structure which was destroyed by Hurricane Katrina. The visitor center offers a audio assist want for audio tours or you can browse as I did on your own. The center also boast a 64 seat theater where a short movie is shown throughout the day. From the 12 foot ceilings, foyer, and sunlit parlor rooms, the Biloxi Visitor Center is an attraction all in it’s own.
My personal favorite part of the Biloxi Visitor Center is the million dollar view which can be found on the second story porch, off the reception area or the stained glass windows on the second floor is is available for special events rentals. It’s no wonder that the facility is booked for year around local weddings.
Guests can find a 2,500 sq foot museum which covers the history of Biloxi from the days of d’Iberville to current times which is both educational and interactive. Not bad for a free attractions just a few feet away from the beach!
The Biloxi Visitor Center is free but you can also visit the Biloxi Lighthouse Park for only $5 per adult (or $2 for children/students 6-12). Be sure to visit the Biloxi Visitor Center before you make your way to the beach. Wet clothes are allowed!
[…] from 9-3p.m 7. Biloxi Visitor Center Located across the street from the Biloxi Lighthouse, the Biloxi Visitor Center is a $11 million state of the art facility which includes a 67-seat movie theater, dozen of […]