10 Fun And Family-Friendly Activities To Enjoy In Gulfport, Ms With Kids

If you're planning a family vacation to Gulfport, MS, you're in for a treat! This bustling coastal city not only offers beautiful beaches and delicious seafood, but also a wide range of fun and family-friendly activities to enjoy with kids. From exploring interactive museums to jumping on inflatable water slides, there's something for everyone in Gulfport. So grab your sunscreen and get ready for a memorable adventure with these 10 exciting activities!

Visit the Gulfport Splash Pad

If you're visiting Gulfport, Mississippi with your kids, you'll find plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy. One option that is sure to be a hit with children of all ages is a visit to the Gulfport Splash Pad. This outdoor water play area is a great way to beat the heat, have fun, and make lasting memories with your family.

The Gulfport Splash Pad is located in Jones Park, right in the heart of Gulfport. The park itself is a beautiful waterfront area with walking paths, picnic areas, and gorgeous views of the Gulf of Mexico. It's the perfect place to spend a sunny day with your kids.

The splash pad features a variety of interactive water features and structures that are designed to provide hours of entertainment. From water cannons and sprayers to fountains and tipping buckets, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Your kids will have a blast running through the jets of water and getting soaked from head to toe.

One of the best things about the Gulfport Splash Pad is that it's completely free to use. There are no admission fees or time limits, so you can spend as much time as you like enjoying the water play area. There are also plenty of shaded areas and seating options for parents to relax and watch their children play.

In addition to the splash pad, Jones Park also offers other amenities that your family will enjoy. There is a playground area with swings, slides, and climbing structures, as well as a skate park and a fishing pier. You can also take a stroll along the beach or bring a picnic lunch to enjoy in one of the designated picnic areas.

If you're visiting Gulfport with older kids, you may want to check out some of the other attractions in the area. The Gulf Islands Waterpark is just a short drive away and offers water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers for even more water fun. You could also visit the Institute for Marine Mammal Studies to learn about and interact with dolphins, sea turtles, and other marine life.

Overall, a visit to the Gulfport Splash Pad is a must-do activity when visiting Gulfport, Mississippi with kids. It's a fun and affordable way to cool off and have a great time together as a family. So pack your swimsuits and sunscreen and get ready for a day of water play and laughter at the Gulfport Splash Pad.

Explore the Lynn Meadows Discovery Center

Characteristic	Description
Name	Lynn Meadows Discovery Center
Type	Children's museum in Gulfport, Mississippi
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.8 / 1,249
Address	246 Dolan Ave, Gulfport, MS 39507
Phone	(228) 897-6039
Hours	Friday - 10 AM–5 PM Saturday - 10 AM–5 PM Sunday - 12–5 PM Monday - 10 AM–5 PM Tuesday(4th of July) - 10 AM–5 PM Wednesday - 10 AM–5 PM Thursday - 10 AM–5 PM
Profiles

If you're looking for a fun and educational experience for your family in Gulfport, MS, then you won't want to miss the Lynn Meadows Discovery Center. This innovative museum is designed to ignite the curiosity and imagination of children of all ages.

The Lynn Meadows Discovery Center offers a wide range of interactive exhibits and activities that are perfect for kids. From the art studio where children can explore their creativity to the STEM lab where they can engage in hands-on science experiments, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

One of the highlights of the Discovery Center is the outdoor play area. This expansive space allows kids to run, climb, and play to their heart's content. There are slides, swings, and even a treehouse for children to explore. It's the perfect place for your little ones to burn off some energy and have fun in the fresh air.

Inside the museum, you'll find exhibits that cater to a variety of interests. The Mississippi Marketplace is a child-sized town where kids can step into the roles of shopkeepers, veterinarians, and chefs. They can learn about money, practice math skills, and even whip up a delicious meal in the kitchen.

For animal lovers, the Fantastic Food Factory offers a unique experience. Kids can learn about the different foods that animals eat and even help prepare meals for the museum's resident animals. They can get up close and personal with a wide range of creatures and learn about their diets and habitats.

The Lynn Meadows Discovery Center also hosts a variety of special events and programs throughout the year. From educational workshops to live performances, there is always something new and exciting happening at the museum. Be sure to check their website or call ahead to see what's on the schedule during your visit.

When you need a break or a bite to eat, the museum has you covered with the Bean's Café. This family-friendly restaurant offers a menu of kid-friendly favorites like hamburgers, chicken tenders, and pizza. They also have options for adults, so everyone in the family can find something they enjoy.

Whether you're a local or just passing through Gulfport, MS with kids, the Lynn Meadows Discovery Center is a must-visit destination. With its engaging exhibits, outdoor play area, and wide range of programs, there is something to delight children and adults alike. Plan your visit today and prepare for a day of fun and discovery.

Play mini-golf at Big Play Entertainment Center

Characteristic	Description
Name	Big Play Entertainment Center
Type	Video arcade in Biloxi, Mississippi
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.4 / 4,018
Address	1842 Beach Blvd, Biloxi, MS 39531
Phone	(228) 388-7529
Hours	Friday - 11 AM–12 AM Saturday - 11 AM–12 AM Sunday - 11 AM–10 PM Monday - 11 AM–11 PM Tuesday(4th of July) - 10 AM–11 PM Wednesday - 11 AM–11 PM Thursday - 11 AM–11 PM
Profiles

If you're visiting Gulfport, Mississippi with kids, one fun activity you won't want to miss is playing mini-golf at Big Play Entertainment Center. Located in Gulfport, Big Play offers a variety of activities for kids of all ages, but their mini-golf course is a crowd favorite.

The mini-golf course at Big Play is an 18-hole course that is designed to be fun and challenging for both kids and adults. The course features a variety of obstacles and hazards, such as water features, sand traps, and tricky angles. Kids will love the challenge of navigating their way through the course and trying to get the ball into the hole.

One of the best things about mini-golf at Big Play is that it is a great activity for the whole family. Parents can join in on the fun and play alongside their kids, creating lasting memories and friendly competition. Mini-golf is a great way to spend quality time together as a family and enjoy some friendly competition.

In addition to mini-golf, Big Play Entertainment Center also offers a range of other activities for kids. They have an arcade with a variety of games and prizes, as well as bumper cars and go-karts. There is something for everyone at Big Play, making it a great destination for families with kids of all ages.

When visiting Gulfport with kids, be sure to check out Big Play Entertainment Center and enjoy a round of mini-golf. It's a fun and family-friendly activity that everyone is sure to enjoy. Whether you're a seasoned mini-golfer or a beginner, the course at Big Play is designed to be fun and challenging for all skill levels. So grab your putter and get ready for a day of fun and excitement at Big Play Entertainment Center in Gulfport, Mississippi!

Ride go-karts at FunTime USA

If you're looking for a fun-filled family adventure in Gulfport, MS, then look no further than FunTime USA. This amusement park offers a variety of thrilling activities for kids of all ages, including an exciting go-kart track.

Located in the heart of Gulfport, FunTime USA is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The go-kart track is a major attraction for families visiting the park, and it's easy to see why.

The go-kart track at FunTime USA is designed to provide an exhilarating experience for both kids and adults. The track features twists, turns, and straightaways that will get your heart racing. Whether your child is a thrill-seeker or new to go-karting, there are options available for every skill level.

Hop into one of the colorful go-karts and prepare for an adrenaline-pumping ride. The track is well-maintained and supervised by experienced staff members, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. Safety helmets are provided, and all necessary precautions are taken to prioritize the well-being of riders.

As you race around the track, you'll feel the wind rushing through your hair and the excitement building. The competitive spirit will come alive as you try to outmaneuver your opponents and make your way to the finish line. The track offers plenty of opportunities for overtaking and strategic driving, adding an extra layer of excitement to the experience.

After the race, you can take a break and recharge at one of the park's many other attractions. FunTime USA offers a wide range of activities to keep the whole family entertained. From bumper cars and mini-golf to arcade games and a thrilling roller coaster, there's something for everyone.

If you're visiting Gulfport with kids, don't miss the chance to ride go-karts at FunTime USA. It's an adventure that will create lasting memories for the whole family. So get ready to rev your engines, buckle up, and experience the thrill of go-karting in Gulfport, MS.

Visit the Institute for Marine Mammal Studies

Characteristic	Description
Name	Institute For Marine Mammal Studies
Type	Company
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.6 / 341
Address	10801 Dolphin Ln, Gulfport, MS 39503
Phone	(228) 896-9182
Hours	Friday - 9 AM–4 PM Saturday - 9 AM–4 PM Sunday - 9 AM–4 PM Monday - 9 AM–4 PM Tuesday(4th of July) - 9 AM–4 PM Wednesday - 9 AM–4 PM Thursday - 9 AM–4 PM
Profiles

If you are planning a visit to Gulfport, MS with kids, one exciting destination to include on your itinerary is the Institute for Marine Mammal Studies (IMMS). Located on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, this educational and conservation center is dedicated to the study and rehabilitation of marine mammals and sea turtles.

When you visit the IMMS, you and your kids will have the opportunity to learn about marine life through interactive exhibits and experiences. The center features a marine mammal museum where you can explore immersive displays and interactive exhibits that teach about different species of dolphins, sea lions, and other marine animals. There are also informative presentations and demonstrations where you can learn about the biology, behavior, and conservation efforts of these amazing creatures.

One of the highlights of visiting the IMMS is the chance to see live marine animals up close. The center houses several resident animals that are unable to be released back into the wild due to injury or illness. You and your kids will have the opportunity to observe and even interact with dolphins, sea lions, and turtles. There are even options to participate in interactive programs such as dolphin encounters or sea lion workshops, where you can get an even closer look at these incredible animals.

In addition to its educational exhibits and live animal encounters, the IMMS also has a strong focus on conservation and marine research. The center conducts important research and rehabilitation efforts to aid in the conservation of marine life. By visiting the IMMS, you and your kids can support these conservation efforts and gain a deeper understanding of the importance of protecting our oceans and marine ecosystems.

Overall, a visit to the Institute for Marine Mammal Studies in Gulfport, MS is a fantastic way to engage and educate your children about marine life. Through interactive exhibits, live animal encounters, and an emphasis on conservation, the IMMS offers a unique and enriching experience for the whole family. So, if you're planning a trip to Gulfport, don't miss the opportunity to visit this one-of-a-kind educational center and see marine mammals and sea turtles up close.

Take a cruise on Ship Island Excursions

Characteristic	Description
Name	Ship Island Excursions
Type	Tourist attraction in Gulfport, Mississippi
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 1,011
Address	1040 23rd Ave, Gulfport, MS 39501
Phone	(228) 864-1014
Hours	Friday - Open 24 hours Saturday - Open 24 hours Sunday - Open 24 hours Monday - Open 24 hours Tuesday(4th of July) - Open 24 hours Wednesday - Open 24 hours Thursday - Open 24 hours
Profiles

If you are planning a family vacation to Gulfport, Mississippi, be sure to include a cruise on Ship Island Excursions in your itinerary. Ship Island is a beautiful and secluded barrier island located just off the coast of Gulfport, and it offers the perfect opportunity for a day trip with the kids.

Ship Island Excursions operates daily ferry services from the Gulfport Harbor to Ship Island during the summer season. The ferry ride itself is an adventure that your kids will surely enjoy. They can feel the wind in their hair as the boat speeds through the water, and maybe even spot some dolphins playing in the waves.

Once you arrive on Ship Island, you and your kids can explore its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. The island is home to two beautiful beaches - East Beach and West Beach. Both beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles. The kids can also go on a scavenger hunt, searching for seashells and other treasures washed up on the shore.

Ship Island is not just about the beaches, though. The island is also home to Fort Massachusetts, a historic fort that played a crucial role during the American Civil War. Walking through the fort's tunnels and exploring its rooms will give your kids a glimpse into the past. They can even participate in a Junior Ranger program, where they can learn about the fort's history and earn a badge.

If your kids are interested in wildlife, they will be delighted to know that Ship Island is a haven for a variety of bird species. They can bring their binoculars and go birdwatching along the island's trails, keeping an eye out for pelicans, herons, and other coastal birds.

Ship Island Excursions offers food and beverage options on the ferry, making it convenient for families to grab a quick bite to eat before heading back to Gulfport. You can also bring your own food and have a picnic on the island if you prefer.

Before planning your trip, be sure to check the ferry schedule and make reservations in advance, especially during peak times. Also, don't forget to pack sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water to stay hydrated during your day on the island.

A cruise on Ship Island Excursions is a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty of the Mississippi Gulf Coast and create lasting memories with your kids. So, don't miss out on this exciting adventure and start planning your family trip to Gulfport, Mississippi today!

Enjoy a day at Gulf Islands Waterpark

Characteristic	Description
Name	Gulf Islands Waterpark
Type	Water park in Gulfport, Mississippi
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.3 / 2,008
Address	17200 16th St, Gulfport, MS 39503
Phone	(228) 328-1266
Hours	Friday - 10 AM–6 PM Saturday - 10 AM–6 PM Sunday - 10 AM–6 PM Monday - 10 AM–6 PM Tuesday(4th of July) - 10 AM–6 PM Wednesday - 10 AM–6 PM Thursday - 10 AM–6 PM
Profiles

Gulfport, Mississippi is a great destination for a family vacation. With its beautiful beaches, historical sites, and fun attractions, there is something for everyone to enjoy. One of the top attractions in Gulfport is the Gulf Islands Waterpark, which is the perfect place to spend a day with your kids.

Located just minutes away from the beach, Gulf Islands Waterpark offers a wide range of water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers that will provide hours of entertainment for your little ones. From the thrilling slides like the Riptide Racer and Horn Island Blaster to the relaxing lazy river and wave pool, there is something for children of all ages at the waterpark.

The park also offers designated areas for younger kids, such as Lil’ Pelican Bay and the Waveland Kiddie Pool. These areas are specifically designed for toddlers and young children, providing a safe and enjoyable environment for them to splash around and have fun. With miniature slides, water sprays, and shallow pools, these areas are perfect for kids who may not be ready for the larger slides and pools yet.

In addition to all the water attractions, Gulf Islands Waterpark also offers various food and beverage options, making it easy to grab a quick bite to eat without leaving the park. From pizza and hamburgers to ice cream and snacks, there is something to satisfy every craving. The waterpark also offers picnic areas and cabanas for rent, where families can relax and enjoy a meal together.

Safety is a top priority at Gulf Islands Waterpark, and the park ensures that all of its attractions meet the highest safety standards. Lifeguards are stationed throughout the park, and there are clearly marked rules and regulations to ensure that all guests have a safe and enjoyable experience. The park also offers complimentary life jackets for children to use while they are in the water.

If you're planning a trip to Gulfport, Mississippi with your kids, be sure to include a visit to the Gulf Islands Waterpark on your itinerary. With its wide range of attractions and amenities, it is the perfect place to spend a fun-filled day with your family. From thrilling water slides to relaxing pools, there is something for everyone to enjoy at this popular waterpark. Your kids will have a blast splashing, sliding, and playing in the water while you can relax and enjoy some quality time with your family.

Play on the playgrounds at Jones Park

If you're visiting Gulfport, Mississippi with kids, one must-visit attraction is the playgrounds at Jones Park. This sprawling park is perfect for a day of outdoor fun and offers a variety of activities for children of all ages.

The playgrounds at Jones Park are designed to cater to different age groups, ensuring that there is something for everyone. The park features multiple play structures, swings, slides, and climbing walls, providing endless entertainment for kids. The equipment is well-maintained and meets safety standards, giving parents peace of mind while their little ones have a blast.

One of the highlights of the playgrounds at Jones Park is the splash pad. Perfect for hot summer days, the splash pad offers a refreshing way for kids to cool off and enjoy the water. With various water features and interactive elements, children can spend hours running through the jets of water and having a splashing good time.

In addition to the playgrounds and splash pad, Jones Park also has plenty of open green spaces for kids to run around and play games. There are picnic tables and benches scattered throughout the park, making it an ideal spot for a family picnic or a relaxing break in between playtime.

If you're visiting with older kids, Jones Park has a skate park where they can show off their skills on skateboards, rollerblades, or BMX bikes. The skate park is equipped with ramps, rails, and other obstacles, providing an exciting challenge for young thrill-seekers.

Aside from the playgrounds, splash pad, and skate park, Jones Park also hosts various events and festivals throughout the year. From live music concerts to food truck festivals, there is always something happening at the park that the whole family can enjoy.

Located near the waterfront, Jones Park offers beautiful views of the Gulf of Mexico, making it a picturesque spot for a family outing. The park is well-maintained and clean, and there are restroom facilities available for visitors' convenience.

So, if you're in Gulfport, Mississippi with kids, make sure to make a trip to the playgrounds at Jones Park. With its wide range of play equipment, splash pad, skate park, and beautiful surroundings, it's a fantastic place for kids to have fun and make lasting memories.

Take a scenic bike ride along the beachfront

If you're looking for a fun and family-friendly activity to do in Gulfport, MS with kids, why not take a scenic bike ride along the beachfront? Gulfport is home to beautiful beaches and a long stretch of scenic coastline, making it the perfect destination for a family bike ride.

One of the best places to start your bike ride is at the Gulfport Harbor Square Park. This park offers a large parking area and easy access to the beachfront bike path. Before you start your ride, make sure everyone has helmets and appropriate safety gear, as safety is always a top priority.

Once you're ready, set off on your bike ride along the beachfront. The bike path runs parallel to the beach, offering stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. The path is well-maintained and clearly marked, making it easy for kids to navigate. Along the way, you'll pass by beautiful beachfront homes, charming cafes, and beachfront parks.

As you ride, take breaks to explore the beach and soak up the sun. Gulfport's beaches are known for their soft sand and crystal clear water, perfect for building sandcastles or taking a quick dip. Make sure to bring beach toys and sunscreen to keep the kids entertained and protected.

If you're hungry, there are plenty of places to stop and grab a bite to eat along the beachfront. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating and have kid-friendly menus, so you can refuel and continue your bike ride. From seafood to burgers, there's something to satisfy everyone's taste buds.

If you're feeling adventurous, consider renting bikes with trailers or child seats, so even the youngest members of the family can join in on the fun. Gulfport has several bike rental shops that offer a variety of bikes and accessories to suit your needs.

Before you head back to the starting point, take a moment to enjoy the beautiful sunset over the Gulf of Mexico. The colors reflecting off the water and the sound of the waves crashing against the shore create a peaceful and serene atmosphere.

Overall, a scenic bike ride along the beachfront in Gulfport, MS is a perfect activity to do with kids. It allows you to spend quality time together as a family, enjoy the beautiful scenery, and get some exercise. So grab your bikes, helmets, and sunscreen, and get ready for a memorable adventure along the Gulfport beachfront.

Visit the Mississippi Coast Model Railroad Museum

If you're traveling to Gulfport, Mississippi with kids, one place you won't want to miss is the Mississippi Coast Model Railroad Museum. This unique attraction offers an exciting and educational experience for children of all ages.

Located in downtown Gulfport, the museum is home to an extensive collection of model trains and intricate railway layouts. As soon as you step inside, you'll be transported into a miniature world of trains, tracks, and scenic landscapes.

The museum features a variety of exhibits, each showcasing different aspects of the world of model railroading. From historic steam engines to modern freight trains, kids will have the opportunity to see a wide range of trains up close. They can learn about the different parts of a train, how they work, and the history of railways.

One of the highlights of the museum is the elaborate model train layouts. These meticulously detailed landscapes will fascinate both children and adults alike. As the trains weave their way through mountains, tunnels, and towns, kids will be captivated by the realism and attention to detail.

For a truly interactive experience, the museum also offers a hands-on model train room. Here, kids can take the controls and become the conductor of their very own train. They can control the speed, direction, and even blow the whistle as they navigate the miniature tracks.

In addition to the exhibits and model layouts, the Mississippi Coast Model Railroad Museum also hosts special events and activities throughout the year. From train-themed workshops to holiday train displays, there's always something new and exciting happening at the museum.

Visiting the Mississippi Coast Model Railroad Museum is not only a fun outing for kids, but it's also a fantastic learning experience. As they explore the exhibits and interact with the displays, children will develop an appreciation for the history and mechanics of the railroad industry.

So, if you're planning a trip to Gulfport, Mississippi with kids, be sure to add the Mississippi Coast Model Railroad Museum to your itinerary. It's a perfect destination for train enthusiasts and families looking for a unique and educational experience.

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