Hidden Gems of Biloxi, Mississippi

While Biloxi is famous for its casinos and beaches, it also hides some incredible lesser-known spots waiting to be explored. If you’re looking to escape the crowds and experience Biloxi like a local, these hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path attractions are perfect for you.

10 Hidden Gems in Biloxi, Mississippi

  • Beauvoir’s Secret Garden – While Beauvoir, the Jefferson Davis Home, is well-known, few visitors take time to explore its tranquil gardens filled with ancient oaks and vibrant flowers.
  • Deer Island – Just a short paddle from Biloxi Beach, this uninhabited island is a peaceful escape with pristine nature, wildlife, and hidden beaches.
  • Hurricane Katrina Memorial – Tucked away near the Biloxi Town Green, this heartfelt monument commemorates the strength and resilience of the Gulf Coast community.
  • Old Brick House – This 1800s home is one of the oldest buildings in Biloxi, offering a glimpse into the city’s past with beautiful riverfront views.
  • Big Play Entertainment Center (Go-Karts & Mini Golf at Night) – A fun spot for a low-key evening, this place transforms at night with glowing courses and neon-lit go-karts.
  • The Greenhouse on Porter – A quirky café hidden in a greenhouse, known for its homemade biscuits, cozy atmosphere, and live music nights.
  • Biloxi Bay Bridge Walking Trail – Offering stunning sunset views over the water, this lesser-visited trail is perfect for a peaceful stroll or a scenic bike ride.
  • Gulf Coast Gator Ranch & Airboat Swamp Tours – Located a short drive from Biloxi, this spot lets you get up close with alligators and experience a thrilling airboat ride through the marsh.
  • Popps Ferry Causeway Park – A quiet nature retreat with scenic boardwalks, fishing piers, and picnic areas where locals go to relax by the water.
  • Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum’s Wooden Boat Workshop – A unique hands-on experience where you can watch traditional boatbuilding and learn about the Gulf’s rich fishing heritage.

Parks & Nature Spots

  • Hiller Park – A peaceful waterfront park with walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas, perfect for a quiet afternoon by the bay.
  • Crooked Feather Sculpture & Nature Trail – A quirky roadside attraction with a serene nature trail nearby.

Local Food Finds

  • Taranto’s Crawfish – A laid-back seafood shack serving some of the best crawfish, po’boys, and gumbo in town.
  • The Fillin’ Station – A converted gas station turned restaurant with great Southern dishes and a local vibe.

Historical Hidden Gems

  • The Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art – A unique museum showcasing the eccentric works of George Ohr, known as the “Mad Potter of Biloxi.”
  • Biloxi Cemetery – A historic resting place with graves dating back to the 1800s, offering a glimpse into Biloxi’s past and stunning views of the beach.

Outdoor Adventures

  • Ship Island – A secluded island accessible by ferry, with clear waters, sandy beaches, and a historic fort to explore.
  • Popp’s Ferry Causeway Park – A hidden gem for kayaking, fishing, and sunset views over the water.

Unique Experiences

  • Coastal Mississippi Mardi Gras Museum – A small, vibrant museum that tells the story of Mardi Gras along the Gulf Coast.
  • Biloxi Shrimping Trip – Hop on a small boat for a hands-on shrimping experience where you’ll learn all about the local seafood industry.

Food Trucks & Street Eats

  • Chapas Taco Truck – A local favorite serving up authentic Mexican tacos, burritos, and quesadillas with bold flavors.
  • Coastal Grind Coffee Truck – Perfect for your caffeine fix, this truck offers delicious coffee, cold brews, and sweet treats.
  • King’s BBQ & Soul Food – A hidden gem for mouthwatering ribs, smoked brisket, and classic Southern sides.
  • The Rolling Bayou – Serving up Cajun-inspired dishes like jambalaya, shrimp po’boys, and gator bites.
  • Sweet Rolls & More – A dessert truck with handcrafted ice cream rolls and creative toppings to cool you down after a day in the sun.

Lesser-Known Must-See Places in Biloxi

  • Gulf Islands National Seashore (Davis Bayou) – A peaceful haven for wildlife lovers, with hiking trails, kayaking, and quiet picnic spots along the water.
  • Henriques-Slay House – One of Biloxi’s oldest surviving homes, a hidden historical gem showcasing early Gulf Coast architecture.
  • Seashore Methodist Assembly Grounds – A tranquil area with historic cottages and beautiful views of the Gulf, perfect for a quiet stroll.
  • Grind Coffee Project – A cozy, tucked-away coffee shop with local art, great brews, and a laid-back vibe.
  • Biloxi’s East End Pier – A less crowded fishing pier with stunning sunrise views and a chance to spot dolphins.
  • Back Bay Biloxi Boardwalk – A scenic, lesser-visited boardwalk with waterfront views, ideal for a peaceful walk or birdwatching.
  • The Secret Coast Murals – Hidden throughout downtown Biloxi, these vibrant murals tell stories of the city’s culture and history — a self-guided treasure hunt!
  • Fort Massachusetts (Ship Island) – A historic fort on a secluded island with crystal-clear waters, perfect for history buffs and beach lovers alike.
  • Rodenberg Avenue Historic District – A quiet neighborhood filled with charming, historic homes and a glimpse into old Biloxi life.
  • Sal & Mookie’s Balcony View – A pizza spot with an underrated balcony overlooking the city — great for a sunset slice!

Lesser-Known Must-See Spots & Activities in Biloxi

  • Gulf Islands National Seashore (Davis Bayou) – Explore serene trails, spot wildlife, and kayak through peaceful coastal waters.
  • Henriques-Slay House – Step back in time with this historic home showcasing early Gulf Coast architecture.
  • Deer Island Kayaking – Paddle out to this uninhabited island for a secluded beach day and panoramic views of the Biloxi shoreline.
  • Biloxi Schooner Sailing Excursion – Take a ride on a replica 19th-century schooner for a sunset sail along the coast.
  • Secret Coast Art Walk – Hunt for hidden murals and street art scattered throughout downtown Biloxi.
  • Old Biloxi Cemetery Walking Tour – Wander through historic gravesites and learn about Biloxi’s past through self-guided or seasonal guided tours.
  • Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum Workshop – Try your hand at boatbuilding or net-making with hands-on classes.
  • Popps Ferry Causeway Kayak Launch – Launch into the bay for a peaceful paddle through calm waters, perfect for catching a quiet sunrise or sunset.
  • Beachcombing at East Beach – A quiet stretch of sand where you can find unique shells, driftwood, and maybe even a shark tooth!
  • Local Seafood Market Crawl – Grab fresh seafood straight from the docks, then cook up your own coastal feast — a delicious way to experience Biloxi like a local.

Beaches

  • East Beach – A quieter spot away from the main strip, perfect for beachcombing and peaceful sunsets.
  • Deer Island – A short kayak or boat ride away, this uninhabited island offers secluded beaches and stunning views of the Biloxi skyline.
  • Ship Island – Part of Gulf Islands National Seashore, with crystal-clear waters, white sand, and the historic Fort Massachusetts.
  • Ocean Springs Beach – Just across the bay, this laid-back beach has gentle waves and a small-town charm.

Food & Drink

  • Taranto’s Crawfish Hut – A local gem serving up some of the best crawfish, shrimp po’boys, and fried oysters in town.
  • The Reef – A beachfront restaurant with rooftop views, fresh seafood, and a vibrant local vibe.
  • Chapas Taco Truck – A hidden food truck with authentic tacos, burritos, and mouthwatering street food flavors.
  • Le Bakery – A unique fusion spot offering traditional Vietnamese banh mi alongside delicious pastries.

History & Culture

  • Beauvoir Secret Garden – Beyond the historic home, these gardens are a peaceful retreat with towering oaks and blooming flowers.
  • Old Biloxi Cemetery – A hauntingly beautiful site with graves dating back to the 1800s, telling the story of Biloxi’s earliest residents.
  • Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum – A deep dive into Biloxi’s fishing and boat-building history, with fascinating exhibits and live demonstrations.
  • Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art – Showcasing the eccentric pottery of George Ohr, this museum’s unique architecture is a work of art itself.

Outdoor Adventures

  • Popp’s Ferry Causeway Park – A serene escape with fishing piers, walking trails, and kayak launches.
  • Biloxi Bay Bridge Trail – A scenic path perfect for a morning bike ride or sunset stroll, with panoramic views of the bay.
  • Gulf Islands National Seashore (Davis Bayou) – A hidden paradise for hiking, birdwatching, and spotting alligators in the wild.
  • Biloxi Schooner Rides – Set sail on a replica 19th-century schooner for a hands-on sailing experience along the coast.

Hidden Nature & Outdoor Spots

  • Graveline Bayou Preserve – A quiet nature escape with lush wetlands, perfect for birdwatching and kayaking.
  • Infinity Science Center Trails – Tucked away near NASA’s Stennis Space Center, these trails wind through beautiful coastal forests.
  • Fontainebleau Nature Trail – A peaceful, shaded trail with wooden boardwalks through diverse coastal ecosystems.
  • Bethel Bike Trails – For adventure seekers, these lesser-known trails offer a mix of terrain for mountain biking.

Local Eateries & Hidden Foodie Finds

  • Desporte & Sons Seafood – A local seafood market where you can grab fresh catches or enjoy simple, flavorful meals.
  • Quave Brothers Po’ Boys – A small, family-run joint with some of the best po’ boys and homemade sides.
  • Adventures Pub & Spirits – A cozy, laid-back bar with excellent burgers, seafood platters, and a fun local crowd.
  • Rosetti’s Old Biloxi Café – A hole-in-the-wall spot serving traditional Biloxi dishes with a rich history behind every recipe.

History & Culture Nooks

  • Tullis-Toledano Manor Site – The ruins of a historic estate, offering a quiet, atmospheric glimpse into Biloxi’s past.
  • Magnolia Hotel – One of the oldest hotels on the Gulf Coast, often overlooked but steeped in local history.
  • Dantzler House – A charming, lesser-known historic home with unique architecture and coastal views.
  • Biloxi Lighthouse Pier – While the lighthouse is well-known, the nearby pier is a peaceful, less crowded spot to take in Gulf views.

Unique Experiences

  • South Coast Paddling Company – Rent a paddleboard or kayak and explore hidden bayous and quiet coastal inlets.
  • Fishbone Alley (Gulfport) – A colorful, mural-covered alley nearby that’s filled with street art and quirky charm.
  • Ocean Springs Fresh Market – A vibrant, local market just a short drive away, filled with handmade crafts, local produce, and homemade treats.
  • Biloxi Bay Charters – For a more intimate fishing adventure, these smaller charters take you to the best secret fishing spots.

Live Music & Bars

  • The Juke Joint – A cozy, divey bar with live blues and rock performances, plus a great outdoor patio.
  • The Mermaid Dive Bar – A quirky, nautically themed bar with fun cocktails and local live music.
  • Ground Zero Blues Club (Biloxi) – Tucked away but full of soul, this spot is perfect for blues lovers craving an intimate live show.
  • Kelly’s Sports Pub – A low-key spot with pool tables, cheap drinks, and a lively late-night crowd.

🍸 Speakeasies & Unique Lounges

  • The Wilbur Bar – A hidden gem inside the White House Hotel, offering craft cocktails and a classy, vintage atmosphere.
  • The Project Lounge – Known for its legendary burger and dark, no-frills vibe, it’s a great place to hang like a local.
  • Snapper’s Seafood & Spirits – A beachside bar with a laid-back feel, perfect for late-night drinks with ocean views.
  • The Cannery Bar & Grill – A lesser-known spot with live DJs, an outdoor courtyard, and a mix of dance and chill zones.

🕺 Late-Night Fun

  • The Fillin’ Station – A converted gas station with great food, live music, and a lively outdoor patio.
  • Biloxi Brewing Company Taproom – While more relaxed, their evening events and local brews make for a great start to the night.

Chill Speakeasy & Craft Cocktails

  • The Wilbur Bar – Hidden inside the White House Hotel, this cozy lounge serves up expertly crafted cocktails in a vintage, intimate setting.
  • The Whiskey Bar – A lesser-known spot with a deep whiskey selection, dim lighting, and a mellow, upscale vibe.

🎶 Live Music & Local Vibes

  • The Juke Joint – A small, bluesy bar with live bands, friendly locals, and an outdoor area to kick back.
  • Ground Zero Blues Club – Authentic Delta blues, great drinks, and an unpretentious atmosphere for true music lovers.

🌮 Late-Night Eats & Hangouts

  • The Project Lounge – A classic dive bar famous for its burger, perfect for a midnight snack and a laid-back crowd.
  • Taranto’s Crawfish Hut – If you’re craving seafood, this local gem stays open late for some of the best po’boys and fried shrimp in town.

🕺 Unique Bars & Dance Parties

  • The Mermaid Dive Bar – Funky and playful, with eclectic décor, tropical drinks, and spontaneous dance moments.
  • The Cannery Bar & Grill – A versatile spot with live DJs, an outdoor patio, and plenty of space to dance or chill.

Art & Culture Oddities

  • The Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art – Dedicated to the “Mad Potter of Biloxi,” this museum is a mix of eccentric pottery and unique architecture.
  • Fishbone Alley (Gulfport) – A vibrant, mural-covered alley filled with street art and funky photo ops just a short drive from Biloxi.

🏚 Unusual Historical Sites

  • Old Biloxi Cemetery – Wander through graves dating back to the 1800s, with fascinating epitaphs and stories of local legends.
  • Fort Massachusetts on Ship Island – A remote, historic fort only accessible by boat, offering a secluded adventure with a touch of history.

🦐 Quirky Local Experiences

  • Biloxi Shrimping Trip – Hop aboard a small shrimping boat to learn (and laugh) as local captains teach you the art of shrimping.
  • Coastal Mardi Gras Museum – A small but vibrant museum showcasing the glitzy, over-the-top history of Gulf Coast Mardi Gras celebrations.

🌿 Nature with a Twist

  • Deer Island – An uninhabited island just a short paddle away, rumored to be haunted and filled with local folklore.
  • Graveline Bayou – A quiet, less-visited bayou perfect for a solo kayak trip through eerie, moss-draped trees.

🍹 Funky Bars & Hangouts

  • The Mermaid Dive Bar – A whimsical, underwater-themed bar with quirky décor and playful vibes.
  • The Greenhouse on Porter – Technically in nearby Ocean Springs, this greenhouse-turned-café hosts biscuit tastings, art shows, and live music nights.