Have you ever wondered about Bay Saint Louis, Mississippi? It’s a hidden gem on the Gulf Coast. This charming city has lots of attractions and activities for all kinds of travelers.
From exploring historic downtown to enjoying delicious seafood, Bay Saint Louis has it all. You can also dive into the local blues music scene. It’s a place where everyone can find something fun to do.
So, what are the best things to do in this beautiful Mississippi gem? Let’s explore the hidden treasures waiting for you.
Key Takeaways
- Bay Saint Louis is a vibrant coastal city on the Mississippi Gulf Coast with a population of over 9,000 people.
- The city offers a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking trails and disc golf at Buccaneer State Park to guided kayak and SUP tours.
- Bay Saint Louis is known for its historic downtown, art galleries, and charming boutiques, as well as its lively music scene and 100-year-old 100 Men Hall.
- Visitors can enjoy the city’s dog-friendly beaches, scenic fishing pier, and stunning oak tree-lined streets.
- Bay Saint Louis is a family-friendly destination with attractions like the Alice Moseley Folk Art and Antique Museum and the L&N Historic Train Depot Museum.
Explore the Coastal Charm of Bay St. Louis
Bay St. Louis sits on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. It has a rich history and a lively culture. Named after King Louis IX of France, it has recovered from Hurricane Katrina. Today, it’s a favorite spot for tourists, with a population over 9,000.
It’s close to the Bay of Saint Louis and just an hour from New Orleans. This makes it a great place to visit.
About Bay St. Louis
Bay St. Louis is on the western edge of the Mississippi Gulf Coast. It has a long history. In 2005, Hurricane Katrina hit hard, damaging the coastal road and nearby Waveland.
But, Bay St. Louis has come back strong. It now offers fun activities for everyone, from singles to families.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Bay St. Louis is in spring and fall. The weather is perfect for outdoor fun and seeing the city’s sights. From October 11th to October 13th, the Cruisin’ the Coast event happens.
It features lots of activities. Also, the Vintage Flamingo Market and Zzz’s By The Sea at the Mississippi Aquarium offer special experiences.
“Bay St. Louis is a charming coastal town with a rich history and vibrant culture.”
Enjoy the Bay St. Louis On the Water
One of the top things to do in Bay St. Louis is to experience the city’s coastal charm from the water. Visitors can book a tiki boat cruise with Cruisin’ Tikis. They can enjoy the scenic views of the Bay of Saint Louis while sipping on drinks. The atmosphere is laidback, with a Mardi Gras-inspired vibe.
For those seeking a more active water adventure, the area also offers excellent fishing charters in Bay St. Louis. Local captains take anglers out to catch a variety of species. This includes redfish, speckled trout, and flounder.
Cruisin' Tikis
Cruisin’ Tikis offers a unique and unforgettable way to explore the Bay St. Louis on the water. Their tiki-themed boats provide a relaxing and festive experience. It’s perfect for sightseeing, socializing, or simply soaking in the coastal ambiance.
- Enjoy the scenic views of the Bay of Saint Louis
- Sip on tropical-inspired drinks in a laidback, Mardi Gras-like atmosphere
- Experience the city’s coastal charm from a different perspective
Fishing Charters
For anglers, the Bay St. Louis area offers exceptional fishing opportunities. Local charter companies take visitors out onto the water. They target a variety of species, including the popular redfish, speckled trout, and flounder.
- Catch a range of inshore and nearshore species
- Enjoy a guided fishing experience with knowledgeable local captains
- Explore the scenic waterways and bays around Bay St. Louis
“Cruising the bay on a tiki boat was the highlight of our trip to Bay St. Louis. The views were breathtaking, and the laid-back vibe was exactly what we needed to unwind.”
Relax at the Beaches
Bay St. Louis is a gem on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. It has beautiful beaches perfect for relaxing and enjoying the sun. You can find a quiet spot for sand-sinking or a lively area for water sports.
Waveland Beach is a favorite, known for being dog-friendly. It’s one of the few places where pets can join their owners by the sea. The Bay-Waveland Beach Trail is great for those who love walking, jogging, or cycling. It offers beautiful views of the Gulf of Mexico.
| Beach | Highlights | Amenities |
|---|---|---|
| Waveland Beach | – Dog-friendly – Soft white sand | – Parking – Restrooms |
| Bay-Waveland Beach Trail | – Scenic views of the Gulf – Walking, jogging, and cycling | – Paved trail – Benches |
The beaches in Bay St. Louis are perfect for sunbathing, building sandcastles, or just a calm walk. So, don’t forget your sunscreen and beach gear. Get ready to enjoy the beauty of this Mississippi coastal spot.
Discover the Historic Downtown
The historic downtown of Bay St. Louis is a must-see. It offers a peek into the city’s past and a lively present. The Old Town Bay St. Louis neighborhood has a monthly art walk. It features works from local art galleries and unique boutiques. You can also enjoy authentic Cajun and Creole restaurants.
Old Town Bay St. Louis
Walking through Old Town Bay St. Louis feels like going back in time. The streets are filled with historic buildings, each with its own story. Visitors can admire the architecture and feel the coastal charm.
Art Galleries and Boutiques
Stores like Fly Boutique, The Porch, and Good Earth Records offer unique items. You can also try local flavors at Cuz’s Old Town Oyster Bar & Grill. The art galleries and boutiques in Bay St. Louis offer a special shopping experience. They showcase the creativity of local artisans and entrepreneurs.
“The historic downtown of Bay St. Louis is a gem waiting to be discovered. It’s a place where you can step back in time, explore local art and culture, and indulge in the region’s delicious cuisine.”
Bay Saint Louis, Mississippi: Best Things to Do - Top Picks
Bay Saint Louis is a beautiful spot on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. It’s perfect for those looking for a coastal getaway. The city has a lively historic downtown, beautiful beaches, and lots of outdoor fun and family-friendly spots.
Begin by checking out the historic downtown. You’ll find art galleries, shops, and great seafood restaurants. Dive into the local arts and culture by visiting the shops and galleries. Don’t miss the 100 Men Hall, a historic spot for blues music.
Relax on Bay Saint Louis’s white sand beaches. Enjoy the sun and the Gulf breeze. For more excitement, try kayaking, paddleboarding, or go on a fishing charter.
Bay Saint Louis is great for families too. There are interactive exhibits at the Mississippi Aquarium and hands-on fun at the Alice Moseley Folk Art and Antique Museum. Take a walk along the Beach Boulevard Art Walk and Heritage Trail to learn about the city’s history and art.
Bay Saint Louis is perfect for any kind of trip. Whether you want romance, adventure, or a family vacation, it has it all. With its charm, culture, and activities, it’s a top choice for your next trip.
Immerse in the Blues Trail
Bay St. Louis is a hotspot for blues music lovers. It’s part of the famous Mississippi Blues Trail. This trail celebrates the work of blues legends like B.B. King, Willie Dixon, and Sam Cooke. They have greatly influenced the area’s music scene.
100 Men Hall
The 100 Men Hall is a key spot on the Mississippi Blues Trail in Bay St. Louis. It just celebrated its 100th birthday. It’s a place you must see to learn about blues music in Bay St. Louis.
Many famous blues artists have performed here. Names like Etta James and Professor Longhair have graced its stage.
Other Blues Trail Stops
Bay St. Louis has more than just the 100 Men Hall. There are other important blues sites and events along the Mississippi Blues Trail. Some highlights include:
- The Blue Front Café in Bentonia, known as the oldest juke joint in Mississippi. Skip James and The Black Keys have performed here.
- Government Street Grocery in Ocean Springs, the first live-music venue in the downtown area. It shows the town’s artistic vibe.
- Smoot’s Grocery in Natchez, a restored juke joint along the Mississippi River. It was featured in the James Brown movie “Get On Up”.
Exploring the Mississippi Blues Trail in Bay St. Louis lets visitors dive into the rich history of blues music. It’s a journey into the heart of American music.
Visit the Fishing Pier
If you love fishing, the Jimmy Rutherford Fishing Pier in Bay St. Louis is a top spot. It opened in 2014 and stretches over 1,000 feet. It has four covered platforms, giving you great views of the bay and chances to catch fish.
Both new and seasoned anglers flock to this pier. It’s known for attracting fish like hog, flounder, speckled trout, and redfish. Lately, there’s been more speckled trout, and live shrimp are the best bait for them and redfish.
The Jimmy Rutherford Fishing Pier is a key attraction in Bay St. Louis. It offers easy parking and access to the water. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to fish or just enjoy the coastal views.
Recent fishing reports have given us insights into Bay St. Louis’s waters. Here are some highlights:
- March 7, 2017: Increase in the number of Specks (Seatrout, Spotted) reported
- March 23, 2017: Continued presence of Specks in the region
- March 14, 2017: Live bait working best for catching Specks and Reds (Drum, Red)
- February 21, 2017: Warm water temperatures resulting in good fishing conditions
- January 31, 2017: Redfish (Drum, Red) performing better than Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) due to low, dirty water conditions
- January 25, 2017: Freshwater influx affecting fish movement and fishing
Whether you’re a pro or just starting, the Jimmy Rutherford Fishing Pier in Bay St. Louis is great. It offers beautiful views, a variety of fish, and easy access. It’s a must-see for anyone exploring Mississippi’s coast.
Stroll Along Beach Boulevard
Bay St. Louis visitors must stroll along Beach Boulevard. It’s part of the historic Old Spanish Trail. Here, you can dive into the city’s rich culture. The Art Walk & Heritage Trail showcases the area’s art and history.
The Bay Bridge Fest in May is a highlight. It features blues music performances and fireworks. It’s a memorable event for everyone. You can also walk or bike on South Beach Blvd, a path just for pedestrians and cyclists.
Walking Beach Boulevard reveals historic buildings, art galleries, and boutiques. It’s a mix that adds to Bay St. Louis’s charm. A stroll here is perfect for a relaxing afternoon or a day of cultural discovery.
Explore Buccaneer State Park
Buccaneer State Park is just minutes from downtown Bay St. Louis. It’s a top spot for outdoor fun, covering 103 acres. It has lots of activities for those who love adventure and nature.
The park’s big swimming beach is a favorite for many. Families can enjoy the Gulf waters or relax on the sand. There are also many hiking trails for exploring the area on foot or by bike.
For more excitement, the park has a challenging disc golf course and other fun facilities. The on-site activity center also hosts events and programs all year.
It’s great for families, with a playground that’s one of the few in Bay St. Louis. It’s perfect for a fun day outdoors with the kids.
Buccaneer State Park is perfect for a relaxing beach day, a hike, or just enjoying nature. It’s a must-see when you’re in the Buccaneer State and exploring outdoor activities in Bay St. Louis.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Campsites | 206 premium campsites with full amenities and 70 sites with water and electricity |
| Seasonal Temperatures | Spring: 43-69°F, Summer: 71-90°F |
| Entry Fee | $4 per vehicle plus $0.50 for each person over six people |
| Camping Rates | Around $32 per night for a premium site, reservations required |
| Amenities | Waterpark, nature trail, disc golf course |
| Wildlife | Carolina chickadees, downy woodpeckers, and more |
| Pet Policy | Allowed in campgrounds on leashes, not in park buildings |
| Accessibility | ADA-compliant facilities and a covered pavilion |
Discover the wonders of Buccaneer State Park and its many activities. It’s a top choice for outdoor lovers in the Bay St. Louis area.
Family-Friendly Attractions
Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, is a great place for families. It has many attractions for all ages. The Alice Moseley Folk Art and Antique Museum and the L&N Historic Train Depot Museum are top spots.
Alice Moseley Folk Art and Antique Museum
The Alice Moseley Folk Art and Antique Museum is free to visit. It features local folk artists’ works. It’s a fun and educational place to learn about the area’s culture.
See vibrant paintings, detailed carvings, and handmade items. These pieces show the Gulf Coast’s creativity and traditions.
L&N Historic Train Depot Museum
The L&N Historic Train Depot Museum is a hit in Bay St. Louis. It has lots of railroad artifacts and memorabilia. It gives a peek into the city’s past.
There’s also a Mardi Gras Museum. It shows the area’s Carnival history and traditions. It adds to the cultural experience.
Bay St. Louis has attractions for everyone. Whether you love art, history, or Carnival traditions, you’ll find something special here.
Conclusion
Bay Saint Louis, Mississippi, is a captivating coastal destination. It offers a wide range of experiences for visitors. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed vacation, this charming city has it all.
Explore the historic downtown and vibrant art galleries. Enjoy outdoor adventures and water activities. Immerse yourself in the local blues music culture. Bay Saint Louis is a hidden gem worth discovering.
With its southern hospitality, scenic beauty, and rich history, Bay Saint Louis is perfect for a memorable trip. Stroll through the picturesque Old Town. Indulge in delicious seafood at renowned restaurants like Blind Tiger. Take in the stunning coastal views along the Bay Saint Louis Bridge.
From family-friendly attractions to romantic retreats, this versatile destination caters to all. It’s the perfect place for a variety of travelers.
As you plan your next visit to the Mississippi Gulf Coast, consider Bay Saint Louis. This captivating city promises a lasting impression. It offers a truly authentic and enriching experience for all who visit.
Discover the coastal charm, cultural richness, and warm hospitality of Bay Saint Louis. It’s a standout among the best things to do in the region.
