25+ Things to Do Near Keesler AFB in Biloxi, Gulfport, and More!

Welcome to Biloxi, a vibrant coastal community where Southern charm meets deep military roots. Whether you’ve just arrived on PCS orders, are here for TDY training, or are simply planning a long weekend near base, you’ll quickly find that Biloxi is far more than just a military town—it’s a playground of coastal beauty, rich history, and genuine hospitality.

From exploring historic local landmarks and relaxing on white-sand beaches to discovering pet-friendly hangouts and family weekend getaways, there is no shortage of ways to fill your off-duty hours. To help you dive straight into the best of Gulf Coast living, we’ve put together the ultimate guide to the area. Read on to discover military-friendly spots, local dining favorites, kid-approved adventures, and easy day trips—all located right in Keesler’s backyard.

5 Places in Biloxi That Are Military Friendly

Biloxi is rich in history, so it only makes sense for us to add memorials, museums, and presidential homes to our list of things to do. Popular for military members and families to learn more about their new home and cultures.

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USS Biloxi Memorial

Don’t go to Biloxi without stopping by the USS Biloxi Memorial. This site features the mast and superstructure of the WW2 light cruiser known as “The Busy Bee.”

Address: 679 Beach Blvd, Biloxi, MS 39530

Admission: Free

Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum

Explore the heritage, history, and culture of your new home in the Gulf Coast region with a stop at the Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum. The site offers tours, classes, camps, and more.

Address: 115 1st Street, Biloxi, MS 39530

Hours: Monday through Saturday, 0900-1630; Sunday, 1200-1600

Admission: $8 Active-duty military, $6 students (5-15 years)

The Jefferson Davis Home and Presidential Library

The Beauvoir Estate is the historic last home of Confederate President Jefferson Davis. The estate offers visitors a look at 19th-century Southern architecture and history, the beautifully landscaped grounds, an onsite Civil War Museum, and a gift shop.

Don’t let the massive grounds detour you. Golf carts are available for rent at the gift shop, helping you get around with ease.

Address: 2244 Beach Blvd, Biloxi, MS 39531

Hours: Daily, 0900-1700

Admission: Free

Biloxi Lighthouse

The city’s signature landmark, its lighthouse is a must-do for anyone new or visiting Biloxi. Erected in 1848, this lighthouse has been maintained by female keepers for more years than any other lighthouse in the United States.

Address: 1050 Beach Blvd, Biloxi, MS 39530

Hours: Tours Daily from 0900-1000

Admission: $5 ages 12+, $2 ages 6-11, 5 and under free

Mississippi Aviation Heritage Museum

Created with a dream to honor the first African American pilot to fight in combat in the Ethiopian War against Mussolini, John C. Robinson, the Mississippi Aviation Heritage Museum grew to be a place to honor all from Mississippi who contributed significantly to the field of aviation. The museum features 22 galleries and a STEM area for children. Flight simulators, theatres, and more.

Address: 429 Pass Rd, Gulfport, MS 39507

Hours: Thursday through Saturday, 1000-1600; Sunday, 1230-1600

Admission: $12 Active-duty military; $7 Children

5 Restaurants Near Keesler AFB That Are Sure to Please

Located along the coast, you’re in for seafood at every turn. But that’s not all that’s on the menu. Check out some favorite spots below with menus for all ages and cravings.

Shaggy’s Biloxi Beach

Shaggy’s is a lively beachfront restaurant with a big patio and live music. Bring the whole family for a fun food option overlooking the Gulf.

Address: 1763 Beach Blvd, Biloxi, MS 39531

Hours: Daily, 1030-2200

The Reef

The Reef offers two floors of dining options so you can choose how to view the amazing sunsets. Choose from the classic seafood options, featuring firecracker shrimp, or grab a classic burger. Whatever you choose, you won’t be disappointed.

Address: 1749 Beach Blvd, Biloxi, MS 39531

Hours: Daily, 1100-2200

Patio 44

Looking for something a little upscale? Patio 44 is a popular casual restaurant offering a casual, friendly atmosphere and American classics alongside seafood favorites.

Address: 124 Main St, Biloxi, MS 39530

Hours: Monday through Thursday, 1045-2200; Friday, 1045-2300; Saturday, 1000-2300; Sunday, 1000-2200

Mary Mahoney’s Old French House

Enjoy an elegant meal in a one-of-a-kind restaurant, centered around one of the oldest homes in America. Dine in an elegant New Orleans-style courtyard under a centuries-old live oak, where for 50 years, presidents, dignitaries, celebrities, and millions of others have experienced the rich history and legendary cuisine of Mary Mahoney’s.

Address: 110 Rue Magnolia, Biloxi, MS 39530

Hours: Monday through Saturday, 1100-2030

McElroy’s Harbor House

Whether you’re looking for seafood, steaks, burgers, salads, or Poboys, McElroy’s Harbor House has your dish and is ready to serve you. Overlooking the coast, you’ll find more than just great food; you’ll find stunning views and good times.

Address: 695 Beach Blvd, Biloxi, MS 39530

Hours: Monday through Saturday, 1100-2100

What Are Some Pet-Friendly Places Near Keesler AFB?

No need to leave your four-legged friend at home. There are plenty of spots to adventure and dine with your furry friends, bringing them in on the fun. Below are several pet-friendly outdoor spaces and restaurants in the areas surrounding Keesler AFB.

Outdoor Spaces

Hiller Park

Take your pup for a stroll around the park’s walking trails or enjoy some off-leash time at Pixie’s Memorial Dog Park.

Address: 380 Hiller Dr, Biloxi, MS 39530

Popp’s Ferry Dog Park

You’ll want to take advantage of the shade at this friendly dog park featuring separate spaces for large and small dogs.

Address: 2150 Popp’s Ferry Road, Biloxi, MS 39530

Keesler AFB FamCamp

Located right on base, FamCamp offers a massive, shaded, fenced dog run for off-leash fun!

Address: 640 North Riverside Drive, Clarksville, TN 37040

Fur-Family Friendly Restaurants

The Lady May

Just 8 miles from base, you’ll find Lady May, a popular Southern breakfast and brunch spot with an outdoor patio that welcomes you and your four-legged friend.

Address: 708 Washington Ave, Ocean Springs, MS 39564

The Shed Barbeque & Blues Joint

This famous open-air barbeque joint features a large camp-like pet-friendly yard for you to hang out, eat grub, and relax with your pup.

Address: 7501 MS Highway 57, Ocean Springs, MS 39565

Lazy Oak

Bring your pup along to enjoy an upbeat brunch and lunch stop offering pet-friendly outdoor seating.

Address: 1429 25th Ave., Gulfport, MS 39501

5 Things For Couples to Do in Biloxi

We’ve got your next date ideas covered. Whether you’re looking for lively entertainment, low-key cocktails, or a relaxing retreat, the areas surrounding Keesler AFB have what you need.

Ground Zero Blues Club

Even if you don’t love the blues, you will have a great time listening to the music and enjoying a bite to eat while at this popular blues club featuring local and legendary artists.

Address: 387 Delta Ave, Clarksdale, MS 38614

Hours: Wednesday & Thursday, 1700-2300; Friday & Saturday, 1100-0000

Lost Key Bar

Looking for something quick on your next date? Stop by the Lost Key Bar, located within the Margaritaville Resort, for handcrafted cocktails and a gorgeous view of the coast. Perfect for quick connections or for a date night starter.

Address: 195 Beach Blvd, Biloxi, MS 39530

Hours: Monday through Thursday, 1600-2100; Friday & Sunday, 1000-2100; Saturday, 1000-2200

Hard Rock Casino

Biloxi has a wide range of casinos ready to make your dreams come true, but the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is an iconic destination featuring world-class entertainment in a rock-n-roll themed space.

Address: 777 Beach Blvd, Biloxi, MS 39530

Hours: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Beau Rivage Theatre

Hosting A-List artists, comedians, and entertainers from around the world in an intimate setting, your date will be blown away with an evening enjoying this destination.

Address: 875 Beach Blvd, Biloxi, MS 39530

Hours: Hours vary depending upon performance schedule. Check the website linked above for the full lineup and tickets.

Senses Spa & Salon

When life gets tough, take a spa break with your date at this sanctuary offering massages, body treatments, facial treatments, and more.

Address: 850 Bayview Ave, Biloxi, MS 39530

Hours: Daily, 0900-1800

Check Out These Nearby Day Trips Perfect for a Quick Getaway

You can never go wrong with white-sand beaches, and Navarre, Florida does not let you down. Not sure you want to spend a day at the beach?

New Orleans and Mobile have alternative adventures full of local customs and history.

Navarre Beach, FL

Navarre Beach is a quiet, family-friendly coastal community known as “Florida’s Most Relaxing Place.” It features sugar-white sand, emerald green waters, the longest fishing pier on the Gulf, and protected nature areas. Keesler Outdoor Recreation regularly schedules dedicated single-day beach shuttles to Navarre Beach, making it an easy day trip.

Drive time: 2.5 hours

• Navarre Beach Fishing Pier
• Navarre Beach Marine Park
• Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center

New Orleans, LA

New Orleans, Louisiana, is well-known for its vibrant culture, Creole and Cajun cuisine, and legendary live music. Situated on a bend of the Mississippi River, the city’s rich heritage blends Native American, French, Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences, making it one of the most unique and resilient cities in the U.S.

Drive time: 1.5 hours

• French Quarter
• National WW2 Museum
• New Orleans Museum of Art
• Garden District

Mobile, AL

Mobile, Alabama is a historic port city and the birthplace of American Mardi Gras. The city features a rich blend of cultures, a vibrant downtown, and deep coastal traditions. You’ll find plenty to do on this day trip.

Drive time: 1 hour

• USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park
• Fort of Colonial Mobile
• Mobile Carnival Museum

7 Things For Kids to Do in Biloxi

The military-friendly area surrounding Keesler AFB includes many kid-friendly museums and activities!

• Lynn Meadows Discovery Center: This interactive discovery center is housed in a 1916 former school featuring exhibits, outdoor play areas, live performances, and more. And admission is free!
• Paradise Pier: Visit Paradise Pier for an amazing amusement park with thrilling rides, arcades, rock climbing, and more.
• Big Play Entertainment Center: Get in on the action at Big Play Entertainment Center, featuring two stories of laser tag, mini-golf, bumper cars, go-karts, and more.
• Margaritaville Escape Arcade: Boasting to be the best arcade in Biloxi, Margaritaville Escape Arcade features 55,000 square feet of pure fun. It’s a great place to spend the day inside playing arcade games, bowling, or watching the game.
• Traintastic: Does anyone in your group like trains? This spot is for them. Traintastic is the world’s largest Model Railroad Train Museum. Hands-on STEAM exhibits and year-round events make this a great spot for the whole family.
• Biloxi Beach: Biloxi Beach has 26 miles of soft, white sand, making it part of the world’s largest man-made beach. Public access, calm waters, and scenic views make this a great place to soak up the sun all year round.
• Ship Island Excursions: Ship Island Excursions has many cruises to choose from, but one for the kids might be one of their destination education programs. You can learn about the area’s history in the open air!

Don’t Miss These Biloxi Seasonal Events!

We’re sharing 5 seasonal events taking place in Biloxi that you won’t want to miss.

• South Mississippi Summer Fair: Held every June at the Mississippi Coast Coliseum and Convention Center, this fair features carnival rides, live music, a petting zoo, and food vendors.
• Summer Art Camp: Let the kids spend a week at Ohr-O’Keefe Art Camp. Four hours a day, your child ages 6-14 can learn about history, symbols, textiles, beadwork, music, community, and more.
• Princess Ball Biloxi: This family-friendly magical gathering with character meet-and-greets is held every September at the Biloxi Visitor Center.
• Moonlight Masquerade: Join the fun, future, and glam of this gala happening in October featuring cosmic couture, interstellar intrigue, food, and entertainment.
• Christmas in the Air: This is a festive show running through mid-to-late December at the Beau Rivage Resort & Casino. Don’t miss your chance to see dancers, singers, and actors, and maybe even Santa!

Don’t Miss Out on These Fun Things to Do Near Keesler AFB

From the sugar-white sands of the Gulf Coast to the region's deep military roots, Biloxi is a duty station that truly offers something for everyone. A PCS or TDY to Keesler Air Force Base means joining a vibrant, military-friendly community packed with incredible seafood, world-class entertainment, and endless family adventures.

Step outside the gates, soak in the Southern hospitality, and start making memories. Whether you’re exploring on your own, enjoying a date night, or adventuring with your kids and four-legged friends, the charm of the Mississippi coast is waiting for you. Get out there and start exploring today!