The Beach Boulevard Scenic Byway runs for 13 miles parallel to the Hancock County coastline through wooded coastal landscapes. This combination of coast and forest provides a clear framework; further discoveries range from science and nature to architectural and local history. Rather than following a set itinerary, you can focus on the topics that interest you: the region offers different ways to explore its landscape and history.
Science from Outer Space to the Deep Sea
At the INFINITY Science Center, the visitor experience is self-guided and focuses on space research, earth science, engineering and technology. Its subjects thus range from phenomena in space to the Earth and technology. The Deep Ocean Explorer adds a deep-sea excursion to this focus. The Center lists regular opening hours as Wednesday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; check the schedule before your visit.
At NASA's Stennis Space Center, it is important to distinguish between the space center and its acoustic buffer zone: public tours of the space center are not offered. Scenic drives through the buffer zone, however, offer a way to learn about the site's history. Check visitor information before your trip.
Coastal Landscapes, Water and Nature Trails
At the INFINITY Science Center, the 1,400-foot-long Biome Boardwalk passes through four distinct habitats in the region. The Pirate's Alley Nature Trail is a 1.8-mile self-guided nature trail. The routes differ considerably in length; the Boardwalk also focuses on the four habitats, while the Nature Trail invites visitors to explore on their own.
The Jourdan River Blueway Trail offers another perspective on the landscape: this 8.5-mile canoe and kayak route passes through coastal floodplains and a river ecosystem. Those who prefer to experience nature from the water will find a clearly defined route here, while the Boardwalk and Nature Trail provide orientation through their paths and habitats.
Art, Architecture and Local History
In Bay Saint Louis, the Alice Moseley Folk Art Museum is located on the second floor of the historic L&N Train Depot. Old Bay St. Louis, also known as Old Town, includes numerous houses and buildings listed on the National Register. The Bay St. Louis Historic Walking & Biking Tour is a self-guided bicycle tour through Old Town and the Depot District. The name may suggest both ways of getting around, but the tour described is a bicycle tour.
Individual places also tell different chapters of history. The Kate Lobrano House is a shotgun cottage built in 1896. Historic Logtown, at the mouth of the Pearl River, was once the site of several sawmills. While the house offers a specific architectural style and construction date, Logtown points to an earlier use of the site.
The Bay St. Louis Municipal Harbor gives visitors access to downtown after they dock their boats. In Waveland, the Garfield Ladner Pier is listed as a waterfront attraction. These two details offer practical and local orientation without specifying a particular route between the places.
More Things to Discover
At the Ground Zero Museum in Waveland, Discovery Alley is a permanent, interactive children's and educational area. It includes a 37-foot-long mural, museum-style games, an arts and crafts area, and a free hurricane simulator. At Buccaneer State Park, Buccaneer Bay includes a 4.5-acre water park. Alongside nature, science and history, visitors can also explore a museum space specifically designated for children and a water park—two distinct attractions.
Discover more destinations: Diamondhead, Stennis Ctr, Lauderdale, Webster County, Madison, Oktibbeha County, Scott County, Clay.
For the full travel overview: Mississippi.
