Years ago, Vegas turned the casino business into show business. Now the genre has
a southern accent as the Mississippi coast has become an internationally known destination.
In addition to the big-name entertainment, there are attractions with deep roots
in the local tradition. Here, it’s more about the sense of place than placing bets.
- Charter expeditions—Biloxi and Gulfport are both water oriented, and one of the
best ways to explore is from the gulf itself. Book a shrimping expedition, deep-sea
charter or island tour at www.gulfcoast.org.
- Piers and schooners—Biloxi’s waterfront features a new landmark pier that provides
an excellent vantage point for viewing historic replicas of schooners that once
plied local waters.
- Walter Anderson Museum—Separated from the mainstream by mental illness, this artist
saw and articulated a world most of us are too busy to witness. His mythical landscapes,
waterscapes and illustrations are the focus of this namesake museum in Ocean Springs.
Mary Mahoney’s, housed in a famous Creole cottage, is a coastal tradition of atmosphere
and cuisine that could never be recreated. 116 Rue Magnolia, Biloxi. (228) 436-6000.
Casino dining has become a high-stakes game. Where these dens of chandeliered
activity used to be famous for buffets, they’ve now enlisted big-name chefs and
other culinary masterminds. There’s no clear winner in the competition other than
our guests who are able to enjoy the food of these must-visit restaurants:
- Todd English’s Olives at Beau Rivage
- LB’s Steakhouse at Grand Casino
- 32 at IP Casino Resort and Spa