In the heart of Gulfport, visit the Bayou View neighborhood for a mix of exciting attractions that are popular with visitors as well as more laid-back places that locals like to keep secret. Complete your vacation enjoying a few of each.
Spend a day at the Institute for Marine Mammal Studies. General admission provides access to animal shows during the day featuring sea lions and dolphins, plus numerous conservation talks and feeding demonstrations including parrots, macaws and parakeets. Plan in advance for more intimate experiences, such as snorkeling with stingrays.
Stroll through one of the neighborhood’s green spaces, Bayou View Park. Tall trees and pavilions give shade on hot summer days, making the area popular for picnics. Bring kids to several playgrounds in the park.
Visitors of all ages can enjoy the exhibits at the Mississippi Coast Model Railroad Museum. Watch the 85 running model trains, hop aboard several riding trains, marvel at the incredibly detailed LEGO train displays and enjoy other themed train exhibits. Visit during the month of December for special Christmas train and light shows.
At the southern end of the district, the Lynn Meadows Discovery Center is an education facility focused on the younger members of the family accompanied by parents. Learn about science, music, art, history, culture and more with fun, hands-on experiences in numerous indoor and outdoor exhibit spaces. Reserve a spot in one of the evening cooking classes for a relaxed learning atmosphere with other adults.
Dining in Bayou View offers opportunities to sample Mississippi favorites. Try the freshest oysters, shrimp, catfish and crawfish caught in the Gulf of Mexico or learn what po’boys, beignets, muffaletta, étouffée, jambalaya and andouille are.
Travel to the Bayou View neighborhood on the eastern side of Gulfport in less than 10 minutes by car from the Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport.
While you’re here, be sure to visit the twisting Bayou Bernard river to understand the natural environment and observe the native animals, including alligators and turtles.
