It may take a moment to locate Oceans Springs on a map. For the record, it’s next to Biloxi across the Bay Bridge. I had no reference for it other than its James Beard-nominated restaurant, Vestige, and a slight familiarity with the Walter Anderson Museum.
So, en route to New Orleans on a road trip, I decided to check it out and came away thinking Ocean Springs is one of the undiscovered gems to visit in 2024. I fell in love with the charming, friendly, and picturesque small Mississippi town. If you like the vibe of Florida’s 30A—Rosemary, Grayton, Seaside—then add Ocean Springs to your list.
What’s fun is a reimagined downtown district, much like Greenville. Washington Avenue’s tree-lined sidewalks are peppered with shops and cafes.
I started my day at Bright-Eyed Brew Co. and ordered a spot-on lavender cold brew. I met Ann Travis sitting at an adjacent table and queried her about the places locals frequent.
She directed me to a slew of shops including Hillyer House for glassware, Miners Toy Shop, and a lovely store named Palmette for designer gifts, florals, and art; it’s nestled inside the newly opened Springs Hotel. Father Dominick Fullam joined in the conversation, and I immediately made plans to visit St. Michael, the Church of the Fishermen. The mid-century structure with its unique stained-glass windows and scalloped roofline was designed by architect James T. Canizaro. The sanctuary is open most days until late afternoon, so stop by and say hello. Right next door is the Maritime and Seafood Museum, which is visually stunning with a sloop from the late 1800s, The Nydia, standing three stories in its gallery.
Lunch was at Eat Drink Love, another local recommendation. It’s a beautiful waterfront spot. A burger with brie, blueberry pepper jelly, and bacon fueled me up and I set off to Shearwater Pottery, the studio of the late Peter Anderson. At the end of a long gravel drive, it’s part shop and part exhibition. Next, it was over to the Walter Anderson Museum for the paintings, prints, and wood carvings of Peter’s brother. Walter is considered the most recognized artist of Mississippi, known for his fine-art-meets-folk-imagery. His collected works, influenced heavily by the motifs of Mexican art, often in repetition, spoke to a sense of place that will long stay with me.
I sipped a glass of wine at the lively bar of Maison de Lu before crossing the street for a coursed dinner at Vestige (now a two-time national James Beard nominee for Best Restaurant). A hankering for an after-dinner drink led me to the delightful and tiny cocktail bar, Red Apple Lounge.
There’s so much to experience in Oceans Springs that I’m planning a return trip. It’s a place I’m ready to explore further, with a warmth that feels a lot like home.
Boutique Stays in Ocean Springs
A locally owned hotel group, Rain Travel Collection, offers highly curated stays in Ocean Springs. The common denominator is gorgeous.
Springs Hotel
Fifteen designer rooms in the heart of downtown Ocean Springs and the property includes Palmette, a bespoke gallery and gift shop by artist and florist Jerrod and Jessie Partridge. Springs is steps away from The Walter Anderson Museum.
The Beatnik
Four floating cabins of mid-mod aesthetic front a private plunge pool. Each includes wet bars and outdoor showers. The Beatnik resides in what’s called the creative district in Ocean Springs.
The Inn
Home to Bright Eyed Brew Co., this precious bed and breakfast is in the center of downtown Ocean Springs. Pets under 40 pounds are welcome, too.
For more info visit coastalmississippi.com.
