SWIMMING WITH THE FISHES

Mississippi’s long-awaited aquarium opens just in time for summer fun.

- MITCHELL AMMONS WALTERS

A magnificent aquarium will soon open in Gulfport, celebrating Mississippi’s vast aquatic wildlife. “Featuring the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico, the roaring waters of the mighty Mississippi River, and the wetlands and marshes of the tranquil bayous, the story of Mississippi's natural resources has never been told in this extraordinary way,” says Corey Ball, public relations and communications manager. “Mississippi Aquarium is a premier institution delivering awe-inspiring entertainment. This is not Gulfport’s aquarium; this is Mississippi’s aquarium.”

The impressive complex sits on 5.8 acres of land, settled directly across from the Gulf Coast’s sandy beaches. As the only accredited aquarium in the state, Mississippi Aquarium will focus on education, research, and conservation in state-of-the-art facilities. Featuring more than 200 species in 12 habitats, guests of all ages will delight in learning more about Mississippi’s aquatic world and leave feeling connected with the planet’s most precious ecosystems.

This year marks the grand opening of Mississippi Aquarium, and guests can expect to be mesmerized by more than 1 million gallons of fresh and saltwater exhibits. Lush walkways, lined with plants indigenous to Mississippi, will connect 80,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor habitats. On a beautiful day, patrons can enjoy the coastal sunshine at an outdoor café before exploring the freshwater world of alligators, viewing river fish, and learning more about the beloved bottle-nose dolphins.