Visit the Mississippi Aquarium

Located along the coast in Gulfport, the Mississippi Aquarium is a fantastic destination spot to explore the local and regional aquatic life and habits. Visitors will be immersed in the aquatic wonders of the Delta, Mississippi River, and Gulf of Mexico.

The aquarium opened its doors on August 29, 2020 and is a true gem for both locals and tourists alike. Although compact in size compared to other aquariums, we especially appreciate the beautiful design, well maintained enclosures, clean restrooms, and friendly and knowledgeable staff. Having both indoor and outdoor exhibits, we highly recommend visiting on a sunny (but mild) day to take advantage of all the aquarium has to offer.

Upon entering the facility, an aquarium ambassador will be on hand to hand out facility maps, daily schedule cards, and a stamp card for the Aqua Kids Posts. The stamp card is a great way to keep kids engaged as well as a free souvenir option. There are 6 Aqua Kids Posts spread throughout the outdoor exhibits. Locate each post to fill the stamp page with an embossed Sea Turtle, Catfish, River Otter, Brown Pelican, Dolphin, and Alligator.

The outdoor exhibits include a freshwater river habitat, North American river otters, Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, and aviary. At the freshwater river habitat, guests can learn about species native to the area including catfish, bass, and turtles. The Pelican Pointe Café is also located outside and features pizzas, burgers, hot dogs, and other grab and go fare. Please note, all tables are outside and most have umbrellas, but there is no indoor seating available.

As you exit, you will go through The Gulf Shop which contains a wonderful variety of souvenirs, T-shirts, and educational gifts to remember your trip.

Being both an indoor and outdoor aquarium, we think the best time to visit the MS Aquarium is in the fall, early winter, and spring. We’d recommend checking the weather prior to your arrival. Since half of the habitats are outside, we would not recommend going if it is going to rain or if it is too hot.

Guests visiting during the week will likely experience lower crowd levels unless there is a field trip that day. Early in the morning also seems to be less crowded than later in the day and will have cooler temperatures, which is especially important if visiting the aquarium in the summer.

Homeschool Days – Available one Thursday each month, homeschool families can take advantage of a discounted program cost when purchased in advance. These events are popular among homeschooling groups so pre-registering is the best way to ensure your spot.

The themed programs include an overview of that week’s topic from an aquarium educator, hands-on activity stations, supplemental materials, and an opportunity to meet one of the animal ambassadors. After the program, families can tour the aquarium at their leisure.

The aquarium also offers field trips through the school systems as well as summer camps.

The Mississippi Aquarium always has something fun going on at the facility. To see their current events calendar, click here. The aquarium is also available to rent for private events including birthday parties, wedding receptions, and corporate functions.

– Check the Mississippi Aquarium website the day of your visit for the current schedule of events.
– Pick up a map and stamp card at the entrance of the aquarium.
– Bring a credit/debit card and cash for tickets, food, and drinks. Outside food and beverages are NOT permitted anywhere within the facility, indoors or outdoors.
– Don’t forget the sunblock!