This Is The Friendliest Small Town in Mississippi
Ocean Springs, a coastal town in Mississippi, is a tight-knit community that has been thriving since 1699 when French colonists first settled here. With roots that go way back—long before the US even existed—it’s no wonder this town has such a strong sense of community. Generations of locals have kept traditions alive, from annual Mardi Gras parades to decades-old barbecue joints and lively culinary festivals. Looking for a change of pace and a friendly face to greet you on your next vacation? Ocean Springs will welcome you like one of their own and celebrate right alongside you.
Fun Things To Do
Colorful beach tricycles along the shoreline with lounge chairs and umbrellas along the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
Ocean Springs’ position along the Gulf of Mexico results in a laid-back and friendly atmosphere year-round. It is not uncommon to see people getting around on golf carts, which visitors can do as well! With Downtown Cart Rentals, travelers can rent their own cart, allowing them to get around town while appreciating the warm sun and ocean breeze.
For those who prefer the water, Ocean Springs locals often spend their days kayaking or paddleboarding. Visitors can get in on the action, too, by stopping by Wild Flier. Here, friendly and knowledgeable staff offer rentals, classes, and guided tours to help you make the most of your time on the water. Make sure to spend an afternoon lounging at the beach while in town. Front Beach, a public beach with white sand and shallow water, is perfect for families and those wanting to relax.
Cultural Festivals
A significant part of Ocean Springs' community spirit comes from the many festivals and events held throughout the year. Ocean Springs has a proud French history that it continues to celebrate and preserve today. During the Mardi Gras festival, 100 community floats parade through the downtown district, passing out beads and trinkets to spectators.
The small town also recognizes its history during the annual 1699 Weekend of Discovery. Throughout this event, fully costumed actors reenact the town’s founding in Fort Maurepas Park. On the last weekend of March, Ocean Springs supports its artists during the Spring Arts Festival, which welcomes over 100 artists and crafters to showcase their work amongst live oaks downtown. Each September, the Mississippi Songwriters Alliance holds a series of performances to promote the area’s upcoming songwriters and musicians, with live performances taking place in venues throughout the community.
Culinary Festivals & Events
In addition to its history and art, Ocean Springs loves to celebrate its culinary scene every chance it gets. Each Saturday, the town hosts a lively open-air market in the L&N Depot Plaza. Throughout the morning, local farmers and artisans sell fruits, vegetables, flowers, and plants. The Taste of Ocean Springs Food & Wine Festival, held each May, celebrates local restaurants and wine shops, encouraging them to showcase their best dishes and finest wines for attendees in the plaza.
The following month, the Red, White & Blueberry Festival kicks off, bringing blueberry vendors to the weekly Fresh Market to share their best recipes and dishes. Attendees can also enjoy free ice cream paired with fresh berries!
Arts Scene
Even outside its many cultural festivals, Ocean Springs is consistently promoting its art community, creating an unmissable art scene for visitors. A visit to The Walter Anderson Museum of Art should be on every traveler’s itinerary. This nationally accredited museum is located in the historic district. It preserves and celebrates the work of Walter Anderson, a renowned artist and philosopher. Visitors can explore a diverse collection of sculptures, carvings, block prints, drawings, paintings, and various other mediums throughout the museum. The museum also honors and showcases the incredible work of Anderson’s brothers, James McConnell Anderson and Peter Anderson.
Travelers should stop by some of Ocean Springs’ art galleries after visiting the museum. The Pink Rooster & Gallery Garbo is a great starting point, featuring the work of numerous artists who specialize in a range of mediums, including painting, jewelry, pottery, and glass art. Catch a live performance at the Mary C O'Keefe Cultural Arts Center, which hosts Orchestra performances, candlelight concerts, live lecture series, and poetry readings, among other events.
Dining and Sweet Treats
Make sure to arrive hungry in Ocean Springs, where the town’s friendly community is reflected in its unique and locally-owned restaurants. Pleasant’s BBQ, a family-owned barbecue spot, is the oldest restaurant in town, operating since 1982 and offering some of the best brisket, pulled pork, and sausage in the region.
For some Mississippi hospitality and Southern-style cuisine, head to KnuckleHeads, known for its crawfish, burgers, and sandwiches. Those with a sweet tooth can grab a post-lunch snack at Caboose Cones, serving ice cream and snow cones. What makes this spot especially unique is its location—housed in an authentic train caboose beneath the shade of the town's historic live oaks.
Final Thoughts
While many towns across the country evolve and gradually lose touch with their traditions, Ocean Springs continues to preserve its heritage and foster a tight-knit community, no matter how much it grows. Whether it’s a local restaurant owner, kayaking guide, or artisan, there is always someone ready to share a story and a bit of the town’s culture. After a visit, you might just find yourself wanting to stick around!
