About this city
Also known as: The City of Discovery
Superbly positioned on the eastern shore of Biloxi Bay facing the open Mississippi Sound, Ocean Springs is an affluent and vibrant coastal city located in Jackson County. Established in 1699 by French explorer Pierre Le Moyne d'Iberville as Fort Maurepas, it stands historically as the first permanent European settlement in the French Louisiana territory. The town achieved its modern name in the 19th century following the discovery of pristine natural mineral springs that transformed it into a fashionable wellness retreat. Today, Ocean Springs is widely celebrated as the cultural and artistic heart of the Mississippi Gulf Coast. The town landscape presents an enchanting layout characterized by grand historic live oak trees tunnels framing a historic downtown packed with independent artisan galleries, trendy seafood bistros, and a deeply creative soul.
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Practical Tourism Metadata
Suggested stay: 1–2 days
Admire the dazzling, colorful pottery masterpieces and regional block prints at the Walter Anderson Museum of Art. Shop unique handmade crafts and boutique apparel along the oak-shaded historic downtown streets. Relax on the quiet sands or launch a kayak at Front Beach.
