Ocean Springs: The Little Big Town

Ocean Springs, Mississippi is one of those unicorns of the South. Is it a Southern town? Coastal getaway? Fishing hole? Arts and culture mecca? In truth, the answer is yes, yes, yes, and well, yes. It’s all that and more. Ocean Springs is a small town that lives large.

It all started with the springs. It is said the Native Americans believed in the medicinal properties of mineral springs and availed themselves of the very springs that were rediscovered in Ocean Springs by tourists in the 1800s. People came from nearby New Orleans and far away New York to bathe in the the springs that once flowed from the ground in Ocean Springs, and its history as a health resort was born.

Of course, the Gulf of Mexico itself is the big and obvious draw. With 62 miles of coastline, Ocean Springs offers every conceivable form of water entertainment. And that distinct Gulf Coast white sand is a siren’s call for beach lovers of all ages.

On top of that, there are more than 200 shops, art galleries, and restaurants, all wrapped up in Southern charm and centuries-old oaks. Crave a gourmet coffee? Get it on Washington Ave. Fancy a new tattoo? They’ve got that too. Eat, drink, and be merry in downtown Ocean Springs, one of America’s most walkable towns.

If you’re looking to indulge your inner artist, do visit one or all of the art galleries in town. Of particular interest are Shearwater Pottery and The Walter Anderson Museum of Art. The late brothers Anderson were prolific and talented artists, icons of the Mississippi art scene. The galleries honor their genius, life, and work. Shearwater Pottery still offers original works made on sight in the tradition of the Anderson potters.

Perhaps the best kept secret of Ocean Springs is its livability. Located a bridge away from larger and flashier Biloxi, Ocean Springs residents have access to the conveniences and entertainment options of a bigger city without the congestion.In addition, industry is alive and well here. New companies, like Rio Ray Optics, are opting to build facilities in Ocean Springs for its available work force and strategic position on the Gulf coast.

For the best in arts, entertainment, industry, and just plain living, our money is on Ocean Springs, the little big town.