Mississippi’s Gulf Coast DMO rebranded this year to Coastal Mississippi: The Secret Coast, to portray the region as a truly unique and undiscovered destination, says media relations manager Anna Roy.
“The Secret Coast’s temperate climate, along with its astounding natural beauty, makes for the perfect year-round destination,” Roy says. “There is an incredible amount to do, see, and experience across Coastal Mississippi—from outdoor activities, such as kayaking, boating, fishing, and hiking to a wide variety of attractions, museums, festivals, world-class gaming, and championship golf courses.”
The area’s latest addition, the luxurious waterfront Centennial Plaza in Gulfport, opened last August, and it features two unique lodging options, a water park with a lazy river and swim-up bar, dining spots, and upscale event spaces.
Another new Gulfport attraction, the Mississippi Aquarium, will open April 30, 2020.
“(It) will tell the incredible story of Mississippi’s aquatic resources from the delta to the coastline and the remarkable connection that ties the state’s natural resources uniquely together, from the brown to the blue and beyond,” Roy says.
Along with 300 species of animals in 12 habitats, 5.8 acres of land covered in lush gardens, and more than half a mile of walking paths connecting the habitats, visitors will find these unique features at the aquarium:
- The 360-degree suspended acrylic tunnel, which enables guests to “walk on water” with views of the aquatic wonders from every angle.
- A diving experience called SeaTrek. Participants can get up close to the creatures that call the main habitat home: fish, sharks, rays, and more. There are only a handful of aquariums in the U.S. that offer this experience, Roy says.
For more information, contact the DMO’s Leisure Group Sales Manager Kristen Parker or go to gulfcoast.org.
Top photo: Oasis Resort swim-up bar and water playground
Photo by Centennial Plaza
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The National World War II Museum
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U.S. Space & Rocket Center
