Mississippi Aquarium
4.2(5.0K)google
3.4(101)yelp
Family
Overview
Mississippi Aquarium is a nonprofit public aquarium located in Gulfport, Mississippi; it opened August 29, 2020, on the 15th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, replacing the Marine Life Oceanarium, which was destroyed by the hurricane. The 5.8-acre (2.3 ha) complex incorporates both indoor and outdoor habitats with more than 200 species of animals and 50 species of native plants. Construction costs were paid through federal, state, local, and private consortiums.
Practical Info
Mon10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tue10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wed10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thu10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Fri10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sat10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sun10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Suggested Duration2.5-4 hours
Best TimeRecommended during late spring (April to June) right at 10:00 AM opening. This modern aquarium features an indoor-outdoor campus layout where habitats are connected by botanical pathways. Morning ensures mild outdoor temperatures and soft sunlight reflecting through its iconic sail-shaped glass apex.
Getting TherePerfectly positioned in downtown Gulfport at 2100 E Beach Boulevard. Drive along US-90 just west of Jones Park. The facility features a dedicated, modern concrete parking lot located directly across from the main entrance ticketing pavilion; follow the prominent aquarium highway markings.
Travel Tips
- Features an indoor-outdoor blended footprint; crocodile and otter habitats are completely open-air. Afternoon lightning storms trigger immediate outdoor clearing with no ticket refunds issued.
- Dolphin encounter programs demand mandatory digital safety waivers signed online 48 hours in advance; walk-ups are strictly banned as slots are filled by international pre-bookings.
- The outdoor eco-paths feature sustained descending concrete grades; operators of manual wheelchairs and wide double strollers must engage hub brakes and keep inside the high-friction grids.
Reviews
Positive
- This modern aquarium perfectly blends indoor and outdoor spaces; the giant transparent underwater tunnel offers amazing visuals.
- Up-close interactions with North American otters and dolphins offer elite fun, packed with genuine marine educational value.
- The infrastructure is highly advanced with clean, abundant restrooms; accessible ramps and lifts run throughout with clear digital signs.
- Excellent waterfront location in Gulfport with easy driving access; internal management is orderly, and staff are lively and patient.