Mississippi Aquarium East Beach Boulevard Gulfport Ms
Introduction
Mississippi Aquarium is a public aquarium located at East Beach Boulevard, Gulfport, MS. It is a non-profit organization that aims to educate, entertain, and inspire visitors about the aquatic world.
History and Background
The idea of creating an aquarium in Gulfport, MS, was initiated in 2003 by the Gulfport Redevelopment Commission. The commission aimed to create a world-class tourist attraction that would boost the local economy and promote the conservation of marine life.
The Mississippi Aquarium was officially opened on August 29, 2020, after several years of planning and construction. The aquarium covers an area of 80,000 square feet and features over 200 species of marine life.
Exhibits
The Mississippi Aquarium has several exhibits that showcase different aspects of marine life. The exhibits include:
- Mississippi Sound Gallery
- Gulf of Mexico Gallery
- Barrier Islands Gallery
- Riverine Gallery
- Delta Gallery
- Swamp Gallery
- Ocean Gallery
- Touch Tank
The Mississippi Sound Gallery features aquatic species that are found in the Mississippi Sound, such as sharks, rays, and sea turtles. The Gulf of Mexico Gallery showcases the diverse marine life that is found in the Gulf of Mexico.
The Barrier Islands Gallery features species that are found on the Gulf Coast barrier islands, such as pelicans, oysters, and crabs. The Riverine Gallery showcases species that are found in the Mississippi River, such as alligators and catfish.
The Delta Gallery showcases the wetlands of the Mississippi River Delta and features species such as otters and beavers. The Swamp Gallery showcases the unique species that are found in the swamps of Mississippi.
The Ocean Gallery features species that are found in the deep ocean, such as jellyfish and octopuses. The Touch Tank allows visitors to touch and interact with marine life such as starfish and sea urchins.
Facilities
The Mississippi Aquarium has several facilities that provide visitors with a comfortable and enjoyable experience. The facilities include:
- The Aquarium Store
- The Aquarium Cafe
- The Party Room
- The Event Lawn
- The Splash Pad
The Aquarium Store offers a variety of souvenirs and gifts related to marine life. The Aquarium Cafe offers a selection of food and drinks for visitors to enjoy during their visit.
The Party Room is a private room that can be rented for events such as birthday parties and meetings. The Event Lawn is an outdoor area that can be rented for larger events such as weddings and concerts.
The Splash Pad is an outdoor water play area that is perfect for children to cool off and have fun during the summer months.
Tickets and Hours of Operation
The Mississippi Aquarium is open seven days a week, from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. The aquarium is closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
The admission prices for the Mississippi Aquarium are as follows:
- Adults (age 13-64): $29.95
- Seniors (age 65+): $26.95
- Children (age 3-12): $22.95
- Children (age 2 and under): Free
Group rates and annual passes are also available. The aquarium offers a discount for military personnel and their families.
Conclusion
The Mississippi Aquarium is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in marine life. With its world-class exhibits and facilities, the aquarium provides visitors with an unforgettable experience. Whether you're a family looking for a fun day out or a marine enthusiast looking to learn more about aquatic life, the Mississippi Aquarium has something for everyone.
