The Mississippi Gulf Coast is known as the southeast’s gaming coast with nearly a dozen casino resorts bringing visitors from nearby states and around the country.
An area steeped in history and southern culture, the transformation from a sleepy seaside community to world class destination is the goal of area tourism leaders.
Snowbirds flock to the casinos in the winter, many by bus or personal car and a growing number by air.
What they find is often surprising.
Gamers enjoy half dozen luxury casinos clustered in an area known as casino row in Biloxi. The MGM Mirage company developed the Beau Rivage in the late 1999s and that set the standard for future projects. Nearby are the totally renovated IP Biloxi, Palace, Isle of Capri, Grand and the newest in the area, the Hard Rock.
Today, luxury spas, headliner entertainment, shopping and a variety of dining options necessary to compete in the market.
Several casinos are located down the road in Gulfport and further east in Bay St. Louis.
A visit to the Mississippi Gulf Coast should include a drive along the boulevard along the gulf-front Hwy. 90 an area that still reflects the devastating blow delivered by Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Debris and 100-year-old destroyed homes have been cleared but many empty lots reflect the lives affected by the storm.
Lodging in the area is fast rebounding and several luxury condominium projects now line the Gulf. As the construction phase of the rebuild eases, area hotels, motels and camgrounds are easier to access and find rooms.
History buffs enjoy exploring the area’s maritime history and locals claim the tastiest shrimp anywhere are found not far off the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
