If you’re looking to escape what may seem like Florida’s unavoidable crowds — especially in a state known for wrinkly retirees letting it all hang out on your beach of choice — then we at Travel Off Path have just the place for you!
First, let’s backtrack for a sec.
Before eye-rolling us with our big reveal, just know we come with receipts! When we say the name “Mississippi”, what comes to mind?
In all likelihood, you may think to yourself, “Mississippi?! Why would I ever go there?” Followed by “Isn’t it just beat up trucks parked in trailer parks and crime-riddled Jackson?”.
That’s a big double “no”. Mississippi offers so much more than its less-than-stellar reputation; otherwise, it wouldn’t be the top 5 most visited state.
But it’s not just small town charm and cultural cities luring curious minds — the real highlight is the coast.
Next Stop: Biloxi
Other than the lore of Jackson made famous by Johnny Cash decades ago, nowadays, it’s Biloxi that’s the one place people can pinpoint as Mississippi’s vacation spot.
But this vibrant beach city isn’t just a place to blow dice hoping Lady Luck is on your side, it’s now a bustling beach oasis even more so than usual, thanks to Amtrak’s revamped Mardi Gras route passing this underrated stretch of coastline from Mobile to New Orleans and vice versa.
Besides New Orleans, Biloxi is the most notable stopping point on this surging train journey that has breathed new life into unsung coastal towns, each with its own unique flair.
Say what you want about Florida, but rarely do you hear of exploring the coast by train — even with Amtrak rival Brightline stitching together major cities.
If you’re seeking a thrilling way to explore illuminating white sand getaways, Amtrak is super affordable and convenient for those wanting to discover why Mississippi has suddenly become all the rage, with Biloxi undoubtedly leading the charge with epic seafood, world-class stays, deep sea excursions, and crowd-free beaches unlike much of the “Sunshine State”.
Not Just Florida: One Of Sin City’s Top Alternatives
We’re not here to dog Vegas, but it almost made my personal list of upcoming articles regarding places I’ll never go back to (stay tuned!)
Sin City may be iconic for a variety of reasons — some good, some bad — but there’s a reason many are passing on The Strip, and tourism is struggling.
For one, you don’t have to worry about sky-high prices in Biloxi. The value you get is excellent.
Unlike Las Vegas, where fees seem to be tacked on simply for breathing, Biloxi offers many of the same thrills and attractions for less, plus beautiful shores!
No matter how hard Vegas tries to duplicate the ocean, they’ve yet to master a beach smack dab in the desert.
Biloxi boasts name-brand casinos, many of which feel like old-school Vegas back in the Mob’s heyday, such as classics like Golden Nugget and Harrah’s.
But there’s also luxury staples such as Beau Rivage and other beachy hotels like Margaritaville, which feels even more authentic here since founder Jimmy Buffett’s hometown is just a stone’s throw away.
There may be no eye-catching Sphere or Bellagio fountains, but Biloxi offers a far more relaxed way to mix casinos with the Gulf.
Weekend Getaway Or Weeklong Vacay?
Hey, we’re not here to boss you around. You can stay in Biloxi as long as you like or hop around the coast on the Mardi Gras line.
However, local experts at Atlanta Magazine hype Biloxi as an amazing weekend getaway to escape the throes of winter.
And it’s not any of the aforementioned casinos or name-brand hotels that caught their attention — they discovered the cozier side of Biloxi with a phenomenal boutique stay at White House Hotel, mere steps from glowing white sand.
Biloxi makes for a quick trip, but can be a relaxing weeklong stay, too, for those who didn’t cash their PTO in the summer.
You’ll never get tired of friendly locals whipping up fresh seafood or typical casino entertainment. Biloxi may not have the same beaming sun as Florida, but the weather is mild enough to truly enjoy plentiful beach days.
Just know that, as pretty as Biloxi’s shores may be, water conditions do match much of the Gulf’s reputation as being brackish, so snorkeling is likely off the table.
That said, exploring the region can last you as long as you want to with easy day trips via Amtrak or quick road trips to other delightful towns the train route skips, such as Waveland or Long Beach.
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