Gulfport, MS Summary

A sister city to Biloxi, Gulfport’s population of 64,829 differs little from other industrialized cities along the Gulf of Mexico. Scattered around its fringes, however, are fishing villages and artist colonies. You’ll also find a couple of lavish casinos, which channel cash into the city’s economy.

The navy’s long association with Gulfport dates from the Civil War, when Union gunboats moored at Fort Massachusetts. The port is now home to the Naval Construction Battalion Center, the navy’s construction force which is known as the Atlantic Fleet Seabees. Tours highlighting the history of the Seabees are available through their Gulfport Public Affairs Office.

One of the prettiest estates in Gulfport is Grass Lawn, overlooking the Gulf off State Route 90. The former summer home of a plantation owner, it showcases a seaside garden and 1840s cypress and pine house. Exhibits in the Gulfport Centennial Museum allow the visitor to delve into Gulfport’s development since the Civil War.

Gulfport is served by Gulfport-Biloxi Regional Airport through the major carriers, as well as by trains, and buses along I-10.