Coastal Region
CoastalMississippi.com; @PlayCoastalMS
Coastal Mississippi is currently redefining the “bleisure” experience, pairing 62 miles of scenic shoreline with a rapidly evolving infrastructure. “Planners return to the Mississippi coast because we offer a collaborative community and versatile settings that provide authentic experiences,” says Ari Covacevich, director of sales and business development for the Coastal Mississippi CVB. “Groups also love the fact that we always seem to have something new developing or opening for them to consider.”
In late 2025, Amtrak launched the popular Mardi Gras passenger rail, which offers round-trip service from New Orleans and Mobile twice daily, with stops in Bay St. Louis, Gulfport, Biloxi, and Pascagoula.
Downtown Gulfport’s historic Markham Hotel recently reopened. First opened in 1927, the restored landmark has 115 guest rooms and a 2,400-square-foot ballroom with a capacity of 390 for receptions. Biloxi’s historic White House Hotel recently debuted a new wing of guest rooms, increasing the total to 125 rooms. The hotel’s event spaces include a ballroom and a terrace with Gulf views, ideal for small and mid-sized groups.
These newer boutique options complement established brands, such as IP Casino Resort Spa and Beau Rivage Resort & Casino. Together, the two resorts offer 2,800-plus guest rooms and 110,000 square feet of event space. On Biloxi Beach, the 500-room Harrah’s Gulf Coast boasts more than 3,700 square feet of event space, including a versatile outdoor pool deck for receptions.
Mississippi Coast Coliseum & Convention Center in Biloxi includes a 400,000-square-foot convention center with more than 133,000 square feet of exhibit space, a 15,000-seat arena, and 32 meeting rooms. The convention center accommodates up to 18,000 people for receptions and 14,000 seated theater style.
New culinary and teambuilding options include downtown Gulfport’s Neighbors Tap & Table, a laid-back neighborhood bar serving small plates and Sunday brunch. Opening this summer, The Downtowner, also in Gulfport, will serve breakfast and lunch daily. Pass Christian recently welcomed 9 TOES Brewing Co., a restaurant/brewpub featuring a large, family-friendly taproom with communal seating and harbor views. Groups can enjoy private golf simulator rooms, a full bar with shareable snacks, and an open layout perfect for large gatherings and events.
For leadership development, the 40-acre Estuarine Education Center in Gautier provides a natural landscape setting, features a 30-foot indoor rock wall, and offers guided paddling excursions on the Mary Walker Bayou.
