Mississippi Aquarium

Located on the scenic coast of Gulfport, the Mississippi Aquarium is a modern oceanarium and a recognized center for coastal nature conservation in the USA. It is not just an exhibition, but a fascinating narrative about the region's water resources: from the mysterious delta to the vast expanses of the Gulf of Mexico.

As a non-profit organization, the aquarium aims to educate and protect the environment. It provides unique opportunities to get to know the inhabitants of the Mississippi River, local bayous, and bays, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in ecology and the beauty of the aquatic world.

Every visit contributes to a noble cause: all proceeds from ticket sales go towards animal care, educational initiatives, and scientific research aimed at preserving the state's natural heritage.

To plan your visit and get the latest information, you can use the official communication channels. The Mississippi Aquarium is always open for dialogue and provides detailed information about its programs on its official website.

Visitors can expect an exciting journey through diverse ecosystems, where they can see formidable sharks, graceful rays, and wise sea turtles. Numerous tanks showcase the rich flora and fauna of both freshwater and saltwater environments, while special interactive zones allow you to literally touch the world of nature.

Of particular note is the Wild virtual reality zone, launched in 2024. Using cutting-edge technology, guests can take an immersive dive into unique natural environments of the state that are otherwise inaccessible. Educational programs and informative tours are regularly held for both young explorers and adults, turning a regular visit into a real scientific adventure.

Finding this marine life center is easy—it is located at 2100 E Beach Blvd, right on the scenic coast of the Gulf of Mexico in the heart of the city. Thanks to its central location and excellent transport links, it can be reached quickly and comfortably from anywhere along the coast.

For tourists arriving by air, the journey from Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport is only about 20 miles. You can use taxi services or Uber and Lyft, which are widely available in the region. There are also convenient parking areas near the complex for guests traveling by car.

If you prefer public transport, there are bus routes in the city connecting the main tourist spots with the coast. A stop is located within walking distance of the entrance, making a visit to the aquarium convenient even during the height of the tourist season.

The creation of the Mississippi Aquarium was a major milestone in an ambitious program to develop the state's coastal zone. This facility was conceived not just as an entertainment venue, but as a key element of Gulfport's tourism infrastructure, designed to draw attention to the wealth of local nature.

The organization's work is based on three fundamental principles: education, conservation, and community engagement. Since its opening, the aquarium has been actively involved in water restoration programs and supporting scientific research, collaborating with leading educational institutions in the region.

Interestingly, the aquarium project was designed according to the latest environmental standards. This has allowed it to become a regional leader in sustainable development and an example of how modern technology can coexist with care for fragile aquatic ecosystems.

To explore all the exhibits without rushing and fully immerse yourself in the underwater world, it is recommended that visitors set aside 2 to 3 hours. This is plenty of time to see the main tanks and participate in interactive programs.

If you are traveling with children or planning to visit the new virtual reality zone, you should plan for half a day. This will allow you to enjoy your visit at a relaxed pace without missing any interesting inhabitants or themed shows.

The attraction welcomes guests daily, providing a great opportunity for a family outing any day of the week. The Mississippi Aquarium operates on the following schedule:

Monday — Sunday: from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

After meeting the inhabitants of the deep, exploring the surroundings can significantly enrich your experience. The coastal area offers many interesting locations, from historical buildings to cozy restaurants where you can discuss what you saw over lunch.

Near the aquarium, you will find both places for quiet walks and sites of important cultural significance to the state. Here is a list of nearby attractions: