The Art Hub of the Gulf Coast is Home to Mississippi's Best Beach
It seems only natural that a town that is home to multiple artists has been called the "art hub" of the Gulf Coast. Ocean Springs, Mississippi's local citizen artists are passionate about the area in which they live, and their artwork reflects their passion. The town is chock full of art galleries, festivals, classes, workshops, and public art installations. Art is not the only draw to Ocean Springs, however. If you want to see what many have referred to as the best beach in Mississippi, head to Ocean Springs. Its historical sites, natural landmarks, vibrant downtown area, lively art scene, and housing of Mississippi's best beach are just a few of the reasons you should visit Ocean Springs.
History of Ocean Springs
Another nickname associated with Ocean Springs is the "City of Discovery," with good reason. The town was the site of the first European exploration and settlement in the Mississippi area. The history of Ocean Springs dates back to its discovery in 1699 by French explorer Pierre LeMoyne d'Iberville. He installed Fort Maurepas, the first French settlement in Mississippi.
Many of Ocean Springs' early settlers were immigrants, laborers, and seamen from countries including France, Spain, Ireland, and Portugal. The town's location on the Gulf Coast made it a popular depot for trade in lumber and charcoal. In 1850, mineral springs were discovered in nearby Fort Bayou, and a hotel called Ocean Springs was built in the town. When the town was incorporated in 1892, it took its name from that hotel, and tourism subsequently became another big industry there.
Today, one of Ocean Springs' most famous historical and natural landmarks, Fort Maurepas Park, commemorates the site of d'Iberville's landing, complete with a fishing pier, bait and tackle shop, statue of d'Iberville, fort replica, ship replica, and boat launch accessing Biloxi Bay and the Mississippi Sound leading to the Gulf of Mexico. It also happens to be the highest point on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
Other historical landmarks in Ocean Springs include the Mississippi Vietnam Veterans Memorial, which was erected in 1996. This memorial, located in the Gulf Islands National Seashore Park, is a tribute to the men and women from Mississippi who served in the Vietnam War. The names of 668 Mississippians who were killed in the war are engraved on the monument. Also at this site is the Â鶹AV War II/USS Tullibee Memorial, commemorating the 52 submarines lost during Â鶹AV War II and relating the story of Mississippi's own submarine, the USS Tullibee.
The Great Outdoors in Ocean Springs
Why, you might ask, is Ocean Springs said to house the best beach in Mississippi? Locals and tourists alike cherish Front Beach, along Biloxi Bay (part of the Gulf of Mexico), for its combination of soft, white sand, shallow waters, easy, two-mile walking path, awe-inspiring views of the Gulf, and family-friendly environment. It has become a prime spot for swimming and sunbathing and is often referred to as one of Mississippi's best beaches. Front Beach is also close to the popular Ocean Springs Yacht Club, a family-oriented organization with activities for all ages.
Front Beach is not the only outdoor excursion available in Ocean Springs. The town is full of scenic trails for hiking and biking. The Biloxi Bay Bridge is a 12-foot pedestrian path over Biloxi Bay that is enjoyed by many on foot or bicycle. The 15.5-mile Live Oaks Bicycle Route takes you through the Gulf Islands National Seashore Park, the harbor, and the downtown area. The Fontainebleau Nature Trail runs 1.5 miles along the picturesque Davis Bayou. The Front Beach Walking Path runs 2.1 miles along Front Beach Drive and offers stunning views of Fort Maurepas Park and the Mississippi Sound. The Davis Bayou area, part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore Park, also provides areas for hiking and picnicking.
The Art Scene in Ocean Springs
Ocean Springs is often called the "art hub of the Gulf Coast." The town is home to many notable artists, such as George E. Ohr, Walter Anderson, and Peter Anderson. Art galleries and centers in town include the Walter Anderson Museum of Art, featuring a history of and artwork by the artist; the Mary C. O'Keefe Cultural Center, housing the George E. Ohr Gallery and offering cooking classes; the Hillyer House, exhibiting contemporary artwork; and the Pink Rooster, which also focuses on contemporary jewelry, pottery, and glasswork. Local artists often exhibit their work throughout the town as well.
Art lovers won't want to miss the annual Peter Anderson Arts and Crafts Festival, the largest fine arts festival in Mississippi, held each November. In addition to over 400 art booths featuring art of all types, the festival offers 150 shops, restaurants, and local galleries. It attracts more than 150,000 people to Ocean Springs each year.
Downtown Ocean Springs
You can easily walk through the downtown area of Ocean Springs, but there are other ways to traverse the town. Golf carts can be rented to help you explore Ocean Springs if you prefer not to do so on foot. Eclectic shops can be found in Ocean Springs' downtown area, including Five Seasons Whole Foods Market, the first organic market in the state; Coastal Magpie, selling a mixture of antiques and furniture; and Buddyrow, a vintage clothing, art, and design shop.
Ocean Springs is known as one of the premier dining destinations on the Gulf Coast. Dining options in Ocean Springs include Pleasant's BBQ, the oldest restaurant in town; KnuckleHeads, serving unique southern dishes; and Tatonut Donut Shop. You can sip alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages at The Office Bar and Lounge, Craft Advisory Brewing, and The Wilbur Bar.
According to the Ocean Springs Chamber of Commerce, the town receives over half a million visitors each year, including those attending annual events and those who are vacationing in the Gulf Coast area. Ocean Springs' accommodations can easily handle all the visitors it attracts. Lodging choices range from Biloxi Bay RV Resort and Marina, for those traveling via RV; to the Cottages of Rosetti Park, small homes in the downtown area that are rented out to visitors; to the Roost Hotel, a boutique hotel in a restored historic building.
More Annual Events in Ocean Springs
In addition to the art festival, another popular event in Ocean Springs is geared towards automobile lovers. Cruisin' the Coast, held in October, has been called America's largest block party celebrating classic cars. The festival attracts car enthusiasts from 40 states as well as Germany, Canada, and Puerto Rico. More than 8,000 vehicles are registered for the event each year. Cruise-ins, live music, auto auction, swap meet, and food and drink are all offered at Cruisin' the Coast.
Although Ocean Springs is in Mississippi, not Louisiana, you don't have to visit New Orleans to participate in Mardi Gras. One of Ocean Springs' most popular annual events, the town celebrates Mardi Gras during February and March. A series of parades takes place during this time. Nearby towns join in the fun, offering cake tasting, a 5K run, and more fun.
Ocean Springs isn't just the "art hub" of the Gulf Coast. It is also home to some of the best beaches in the state. Now that you have read about the art culture, beautiful beaches, natural wonders, historic landmarks, and exciting downtown area of Ocean Springs, Mississippi, the only thing left to ask yourself is why you haven't visited yet.