As a state, Mississippi is a treasure trove of small towns and undiscovered gems.

With around 70,000 full-time residents, Gulfport is the states second largest locale.

Heres how to spend a weekend in Gulfport, Mississippi.

Ship Island Lighthouse

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Everyones first day in Gulfport should be a beach day.

In addition to the ferry, they also offer a Dolphin Watching Cruise and Starlight Cocktail Cruise.

Places To Eat

Gulfport doesnt leave much to be desired when it comes to dining out.

Gulfport, Mississippi

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Whether youre an early riser or prefer to wake later in the day,Boozers Brewhas you covered.

The Gulfport institution pulls double duty as a drive-thru coffeehouse and an indoor breakfast and lunch cafe.

Youll find everything from protein shakes and bagel sandwiches to fresh salads at its two Gulfport locations.

Institute for Marine Mammal Studies in Gulfport

Credit:Courtesy of Gulfport, Mississippi

Cap off a great meal with a sour fruited Beet Bum or Surfside Pineapple Wheat beer atChandeleur Island Brewing.

For a more traditional dessert option, head toCoast Candymakersinside Island View Casino and Resort.

Courtesy of Island View Casino Resort

Dinner in Gulfport requires that you slow down and savor your experience.

Downtown Gulfport

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AtCaptain Als Steak and Seafood, located on Captain Wharfs Marina, every day is a party.

Another waterfront hotspot isFlamingo Landing, where theres live music nearly every night and bottomless brunch on the weekends.

Go for dinner, and be sure to order something thats covered in their special Go-Go Sauce.

Coast Roast

Credit:Courtesy of Gulfport, Mississippi

It’s not just coastal fare that Gulfport gets right.

Order from a list of 30 wines and more than 100 bourbons, ryes, whiskey, and scotches.

After all, The Rack House did start the Gulf Coasts first Bourbon Society.

Coast Candymakers

Credit:Courtesy of Island View Casino Resort

A beignet cafe, daiquiri bar, specialty steakhouses, and buffets are all part of the culinary mix.

Nicknamed the Crowned Jewel of the Mississippi Coast,Centennial Plaza Resortis a destination in and of itself.

Guests have an option between rooms in the Grand Centennial Hotel or family suites in Oasis Resort.

Centennial Plaza

Credit:Courtesy of Gulfport, Mississippi