Visit East Biloxi, the historical and entertainment heart of Biloxi, nestled between the Mississippi Sound and Back Bay. This area of the city received extensive destruction from Hurricane Katrina in 2005. East Biloxi has since recovered and welcomes visitors to its casinos, museums and oceanside activities.
Stop at the Biloxi Visitors Center to pick up guide maps, browse art displays and peruse exhibits about city history. Outside, the 64-foot-tall (20-meter) Biloxi Lighthouse is one of the most emblematic sights along the Gulf Coast. Tours of the lighthouse’s lookout offer wonderful coastal views. Spot the graves of local celebrities, including the Mad Hatter of BiloxiGeorge Ohr, at the nearby Biloxi City Cemetery.
Downtown Biloxi blends architectural treasures with dining and sports. Admire buildings such as the 175-year-old Brunet-Fourchy House, classical revival-style Redding House and Scherer Old Spanish House. Busy Howard Avenue features the Cathedral of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary and Coastal Mardi Gras Museum. Pause for reflection at the Hurricane Katrina Memorial, attend a ballgame at MGM Park and feast on seafood on Main Street.
Delve into the ceramic art scene of the Mississippi Gulf Coast at the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art. Exhibits are housed in buildings designed by Frank O. Gehry. Gamble at the slots and table games at Beau Ridge Casino, Boomtown Casino Biloxi and Golden Nugget Casino.
At the easternmost part of the district, Point Cadet Plaza looks out over the waters of Biloxi Bay. Relax while the children enjoy the plaza’s playground and splash pad. Learn about Biloxi’s seafood heritage at the Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum.
Make your way to Biloxi Beach to swim and have fun on aqua cycles and wave runners. Paddle a kayak from Point Cadet Marina to the pristine white-sand beaches of Deer Island.
Driving is the most convenient way to reach East Biloxi. Use the widely available free street parking. The Beachcomber and Casino Hopper shuttle buses are great alternatives for getting around.