Biloxi Art & Culture: Top 5 Spots You Should Visit

If you’re thinking about a Gulf Coast getaway that goes way beyond the beach, Biloxi might be just what you’re looking for. It’s not only casinos and seafood (though they’re quite great), the city also holds this unexpectedly wonderful mix of art, heritage, and genuine Southern stories. We are talking historical houses whispering secrets, cool galleries showcasing work from right here, and spaces dedicated to celebrating the melting pot that is Gulf Coast culture. Let’s have a look at, arguably, five must-see spots that’ll add a cultural boost to your Biloxi visit. Prepare to find out where creativity is found and historical stories are kept alive.

1. Ohr-O’Keefe Museum Of Art

Alright, so first off, we absolutely have to mention the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art. This place is pretty special. Seriously, it isn’t just some building full of stuff; it’s almost a living work of art itself. Conceptualized by the pretty renowned architect Frank Gehry, the buildings are really something to look at, like these twisting, turning structures that practically reflect the creative energy inside. But it’s actually the story they tell about the ceramics of George Ohr, that’s truly amazing. Nicknamed the “Mad Potter of Biloxi,” Ohr was way ahead of his own time, messing around with clay in ways people just weren’t doing back in the day. His work? Think wildly shaped pottery which tested boundaries and actually questioned people’s sense of what pottery could even be. When you walk through the museum, you, arguably, don’t just see the objects, you sort of get a feel for Ohr’s spirit—unconventional, daring, and just bursting with imagination. Plus, the museum showcases all types of art, too. There’s exhibits that show off other artists from around the area and sometimes even farther away, pretty guaranteeing there’s often something new and inspiring each visit. Read our full review: Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art Full Review and Details. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Book now)

2. Beauvoir – Jefferson Davis Home And Presidential Library

Okay, stepping away a little from visual arts for a second, you will find a place with huge historical significance: Beauvoir, actually the home and presidential library of Jefferson Davis, the president of the Confederacy. If history strikes your interest, this estate does a quite fantastic work of taking you back in time, and you’re allowed to walk the grounds that Jefferson Davis wandered. You get an almost unfiltered peek into his life both during and after his presidency. The main house itself has been carefully looked after, with all sorts of period furnishings that, pretty honestly, reflect what life might’ve looked like for the Davis family back then. Beyond the house, that’s something like a journey that extends onto its grounds, featuring a library filled with tons of historical records, documents, and exhibits that offer various views related to Davis and, for example, the Civil War period. Beauvoir actually gives you a moment to think critically and a chance to, seemingly, face a few of the past’s harsher realities. Walking around Beauvoir can, obviously, provoke reflection, but it’s, actually, a crucial location for anyone wanting to learn and contemplate America’s story more fully. Read our full review: Beauvoir Jefferson Davis Home Full Review and Details. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Visit Beauvoir)

3. Biloxi Lighthouse

When you get to Biloxi, there’s no avoiding the Biloxi Lighthouse. Honestly, this thing is a landmark. It’s not just a structure that looks good on postcards; this tower is an actual symbol of the town’s past and its resilient spirit. Now get this: Completed way back in 1848, it has seen more than its fair share, right from hurricanes and storms, plus a tiny bit of the Civil War, making it one pretty tough cookie. What’s super awesome? That, too, female keepers were the people managing this light for close to 80 years. These heroines kept the beacon burning through thick and thin. When you come over for a visit, you’re allowed to go all the way to the top. So prepare for some stairs, yet I tell you the views from the top? Completely worth every single step. You’ll get a gorgeous sight of the coastline. And there’s a little visitors center at the base where there are pictures, documents, and stories about the lighthouse and the people whose job it was to keep it running. Very insightful! Read our full review: Biloxi Lighthouse Full Review and Details. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Discover Biloxi)

4. Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum

To understand Biloxi’s true heart, let’s consider checking out the Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum; that gives you a feel of how tied this place is to the Gulf. If seafood is a part of what you like, this spot honors the shrimpers, boat builders, and seafood canneries that basically molded Biloxi into what it is today. You actually get exhibits detailing just about everything, from the tools they employed to the kinds of vessels that navigated these waters. A great amount is dedicated to sharing these historical happenings and stories from this location. This site, seemingly, highlights how tradition has touched this spot over many generations. But seriously, beyond just looking at historical artifacts, this museum also explores some modern problems currently facing the marine world, just like conservation efforts, so that there’s, actually, a very insightful way to get to know the complexities associated with keeping maritime life intact. Before you plan your trip, actually know what special exhibit is available, as it can change occasionally! Read our full review: Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum Full Review and Details. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Seafood museum visit)

5. Gallery 782 Co-Op Art Gallery

Okay, to cap off our tour, it’s almost time to visit Gallery 782. If your vision is to get insight regarding the current local art scene, you should actually stop by Gallery 782 Co-Op Art Gallery. I’m here to explain this isn’t your typical quiet gallery atmosphere; that location buzzes due to the creativity from numerous local artists joining forces. This spot provides them with space for these talented artists for showing off their works, so this translates into a cool combo of artwork that extends out to numerous types of interests! From paintings, sculptures, as well as photography. In reality, you’re experiencing art straight from the source! So don’t hesitate and get ready in conversing directly with some artists and even acquiring your unique piece from the Gulf Coast, you never know, the special item you pick may have an interesting past. Also, this co-op setup basically gives everyone involved the flexibility and power to run exhibits they find relevant or intriguing! Keep your itinerary close as you don’t know the rotating showcases which tend to change periodically! Read our full review: Gallery 782 Co-Op Art Gallery Full Review and Details. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Explore Art gallery)