Once home to the American artist Walter Inglis Anderson, Ocean Springs overlooks Biloxi Bay on Mississippi’s Gulf Coast. It’s been voted as one of the happiest seaside towns in the United States and is home to a vibrant arts community. It also hosts a diverse array of festivals throughout the year.
Things to do in Ocean Springs
Ocean Springs is an ideal base for exploring the Davis Bayous Area Gulf Islands National Seashore, which is a popular setting for fishing, hiking and bird watching. Attend one of the ranger-led programs at the William M. Colmer Visitor Center, cast a fishing line from the pier or stretch your legs on a walk along the David Bayou Trail.
Art enthusiasts shouldn’t miss a visit to the Walter Anderson Museum of Art, which showcases the life and work of the renowned painter and writer. In addition to paintings, sculptures, carvings and block prints created by Anderson, it also exhibits his writings related to coastal flora, fauna and people. Walter Anderson’s brothers, Peter and James, are also honoured at the museum for their ceramic work.
If you’re a fan of Frank Lloyd Wright, pay a visit to Charnley-Norwood House, which he designed alongside Louis Sullivan in 1890. It was commissioned by a wealthy Chicago lumber baron as his summer cottage and played a significant role in the development of the Prairie School style. Join a guided tour to learn about the residence’s pioneering architecture and the damage it endured during Hurricane Katrina.
Getting around Ocean Springs
Ocean Springs is a 30-minute drive from Gulfport and Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport, which has flights to destinations across the United States. Mobile Regional Airport is one hour away. Buses are the main means of getting to and around Ocean Springs.