Biloxi’s history goes back to ancient Native Americans who hunted and lived on the land. During the 1700’s settlers built homes, boats and stores. They were once part of what was known as West Florida. Mississippi earned its Statehood in 1817.

Food and Lodging

There are several lovely bed and breakfast inns, along with the more traditional hotels and motels, in Biloxi. The Father Ryan House Bed and Breakfast Inn was built around 1841. It was once the home of Father Abram Ryan who was a poet laureate of the Confederate army. It is now a National Landmark. The rooms are exquisite. Each one is decorated to represent the 1800’s, providing the perfect atmosphere for a vacation getaway. The inn is located right on the Mississippi Gulf Coast so visitors can swim, fish and boat.

There are quite a few restaurants to choose from in Biloxi. But you will want to check out the ones that cater to Southern food to get the most out of your visit. Southern fried chicken, gumbo infused with seafood, and okra and desserts that are mouth watering are all traditional fare in Biloxi.

Family Fun

Boats and water are a major part of what goes on in Biloxi. A wonderful way to spend the day with your family is sailing on an authentic Biloxi Schooner. Full day tours will take visitors to the barrier islands where they can sunbathe, watch dolphins play along the coast or collect seashells to take back home. Shrimping trips can be arranged, as well as other types of fishing.

The Fun Factory is the perfect place to spend the day with the kids. A giant slide, mini racing, miniature golf and video games galore will keep the kids entertained for hours. There is even a Funolater!

Historical Places

One place that is a must when visiting Biloxi is Beauvoir. This beautiful home that fronts the Gulf of Mexico was once home to the Confederacy’s only president, Jefferson Davis. Here is where he spent time with his family and wrote about his experiences. Today it is a tribute to Confederate soldiers and provides a historical look into the Civil War.

Fort Massachusetts is part of Gulf Islands National Seashore. The fort was begun in 1859 on Ship Island. It played an important part in the Civil War. One of the first black regiments was stationed on Ship Island. Today, visitors can tour this important military building and enjoy the park at the same time.