Explore Your Wild Side in Mississippi

This spring, Mississippi welcomes guests to wander on the wild side with a variety of attractions that bring nature within reach.

From kayaking through wetlands to hands-on experiences with dolphins and sloths, the state offers several thrilling experiences for families to explore fascinating ecosystems and natural beauty.

Mississippi Aquarium

Gulfport, MS

The Mississippi Aquarium provides an opportunity to become fully immersed in Mississippi’s aquatic wonders through education and entertainment. Visitors will experience exhibits with the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico, Mississippi River and bayou wetlands. Not only can visitors view Mississippi’s ecosystems, but also have a hands-on opportunity to touch and feed a bottlenose dolphin or get up close and personal with a guided underwater SeaTREK® Experience.

Hattiesburg Zoo

Hattiesburg, MS

The Hattiesburg Zoo is comprised of a multitude of geographical themed exhibits, adventuruous activities and various learning opportunities to learn about the importance of conservation. The zoo is home to more than 200 animals including Chewy, Mo and Maple, sociable sloths that are part of a hands-on, behind the scenes experience.

Pascagoula Audubon Center

Moss Point, MS

At the Pascagoula Audubon Center, visitors have the unique opportunity to encounter the wide variety of wildlife that abounds in the Pascagoula River, the largest free-flowing river in the U.S. Visitors can explore the river’s ecosystem through indoor displays of native animals, the native plant botantical garden or venture into the river by kayak.

Ecotours of South Mississippi

Gautier, MS

Wanderers can kayak some of the state's most beautiful and ecologically significant areas with Eco-Tours of South Mississippi. The 2-hour kayak tour introduces visitors to the natural habitats of the cypress swamps and salt marshes of the lower Pascagoula River. While exploring the wetlands, visitors will have the opportunity to see Mississippi’s beautiful wildlife, from alligators and bald eagles to wild lilies and orchids.

Mississippi Museum of Natural Science

Jackson, MS

Tucked within the historic LeFleur’s Bluff State Park, The Mississippi Museum of Natural Science gives guests an opportunity to become immersed in Mississippi’s natural setting. The museum houses over 200 living species in its 100,000-gallon aquarium network. Along with the spectacular aquarium, the museum features 73,000 square feet of permanent and temporary exhibits including deer, waterfowl, fossils and Mississippi's endangered species.

Photo credit: Visit Mississippi