Gulfport was home to indigenous culture for thousands of years until the first European explorers settled in the area. Under the Indian Removal Act, the US ended treaties to remove the indigenous tribes from the area. They were pushed to the Indian Territory while the white settlers took over the land to develop them for agricultural activities. Gulfport was established by William H. Hardy, the Gulf and Ship Island Railroad president. Joseph Jones took the G&SIRR, dug up a harbor in the Gulfport, and created a shipping route to the sea. The Port of Gulfport developed into a working seaport after completing the harbor. The port was later moved from Shieldsboro to Gulfport. It now generates millions of cash in sales incomes and annual sales for Mississippi. The city developed as an important port hub. This stimulated the city’s development by creating a way for the goods to get to the markets. Gulfport’s positioning on the coast exposed it to hurricanes hence weathering severally. Hurricane Camille hit the city so hard, destroying an area of 180km. After the storm, the city extended to 33 square miles north of its neighborhoods, making it the second-largest city in Mississippi.

Gulfport is a city full of history, seafood shacks and beaches. Outdoor fans will have a lot to consider when looking for things to do. From enjoying some kayaking, fishing, swimming and sun-basking at the sandy beaches, you can’t exhaust the options. Have a lazy day and are looking for a low-key outing? If so, pack your picnic book and head over to Gulfport Beach to enjoy the sand and some surfing. Alternatively, you can get active on the water by swimming, sea kayaking, or jet skiing.

Watch dolphins and birds and witness the sea lion and dolphin show at The Institute of Marine Mammal Studies. Alternatively, you can consider listening to the story of Mississippi’s aquatic animals at the Mississippi Aquarium. Get Funky in Fishbone Alley and enjoy the thriving arts. The alley is bucked up with pubs, restaurants, and galleries worth exploring. Sip some beer as you explore the gallery collection or enjoy a five-course meal at the finest dining.

To enjoy nature’s beauty, visit the Friendship Oak. Being an area that miraculously survived Hurricane Katrina, it is a landmark worth visiting in Gulfport. Filled with flora and fauna and beautiful gardens full of roses, it’s a stunning natural wonder for picnics and meetups. For foodies, you are in the best place. If seafood is your preference, then you got a lot to enjoy. Visit Half Shell Oyster House and grab a bite of the best local fish, steaks and pasta. For beer lovers, head over to Chandeleur Island Brewing to sample various beers.

If you have a sweet tooth, you can’t afford to miss a visit to the Pop Brothers. This area stands out as the best place for creamy, fruity and Oreo cakes. If you are looking for a place to spend a weekend with your children, consider visiting Zip’N Fun Adventure Park. A park is where adventure awaits you; enjoy the ropes course, zip lines, sky bridges and swinging logs.