If you are interested in space travel, the John C. Stennis Space Center is a must see. This is NASA's second largest space center in the nation. You will see where the space shuttle engines are tested, what it would be like to live on Mars and learn about our history and how we were able to send astronauts to the moon. Don't forget to ride the Space Shuttle Simulator to experience the feeling of orbiting the earth and you can experience what it is like to land a shuttle in the interactive shuttle cockpit.
Hours: Wed-Sat 10am-2pmGeorge Ohr was the self proclaimed "Apostel of Individuality" and would tell people he was the greatest potter on earth. His pottery was expressive and groundbreaking. Come in and see the extensive collection and find out why he was called the "Mad Potter of Biloxi". The museum also offers a local exhibition area and a contemporary area.
Hours: Off Peak Season, Mon-Fri 9am-4:30pm; Sat 10am-4:30pmSeveral concerts are held every year. The current director is John Strickler. Call about the itinerary.
http://www.gulfcoastsymphony.net/Come and enjoy 90 minutes of fun and information about the Gulfport / Biloxi Historical District. This is one of America's oldest townships with 18th and 19th century architecture. Unfortunately, Hurricane Katrina destroyed some of the historic sites. However, you will experience the colorful culture, people and traditions of the area making the tour well worth your time. Reserve your tour no more than a week in advance.
Hours: Daily 10amJefferson Davis was the only President of the Confederacy and the South seceded from the Union. Step back in time and see Davis's beautiful antebellum mansion home, which has been restored after being nearly demolished by hurricane Katrina. Along with seeing the inside of the home where Davis wrote his memoirs, you will be able to wander through the magnificent landscaped grounds, including the rose garden, veteran's cemetery and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Hours: Mon-Sat 9am-5pm; Sun 10am-4pm. Hours may differ seasonally.Sailing trips on the Mississippi Sound and the Gulf of Mexico are serene and beautiful. You will also get to hear about the Gulfport / Biloxi maritime history, which started in the 18th century. At that time they were oyster schooners and known as white-winged queens. The schooners are an amazing site with their two masts that reach up to 65 feet high. Trips are available for up to a special two hours. Remember to bring your camera!
Hours: Walk-on Sails, dates and times varyGulfport / Biloxi started as and continues to be a fishing area. Take a trip on the Sailfish and experience what it is like to be a shrimper on the gulf. The boat holds up to 48 passengers and group private tours are also available. Call to find out times for daily departures.
Hours: Late Feb-Nov (Daily, weather permitting)Southeast of Gulfport / Biloxi there is a small piece of land with a sandy beach. If you want an intimate place to relax, camp and fish, you will need to charter a boat from Point Cadet Marina in town.
Visit Ship Island to see Fort Massachusetts from the Civil War. This is where Admiral David Farragut prepared to take New Orleans and the island was then used to house rebel prisoners. US Rangers will guide you through the fort and recount the amazing history. You will only need $16 for the ferry to Ship Island.
Hours: May 17-Aug 17, Daily 10:15am -1:15pm; Aug 18-Oct 26, Wed-Sat 10:15am-1:15pm; Sun 1:15pmThe theatre, built in 1929, has history of hosting traveling vaudeville shows. The city restored the theatre in 1984, keeping the Art Deco design. The theatre has hosted many events, including dance, theatre and musical shows. The Gulf Coast Opera and the Gulf Coast Symphony have been featured. An appointment is required to visit the theatre.
Admission: Varies with the event** If you'd like to suggest a different Gulfport activity that we missed, tell us about it at 10things@citiesunlimited.com and we'll try to work it into our next update!