This Is The Friendliest Small Town On The Gulf Coast

While Ocean Springs may be famous for its picturesque shoreline along the Mississippi Sound, it's equally known for its authentic friendliness and close-knit feel. This sense of community hasn’t gone unnoticed — "USA Today" named it the "Best Coastal Small Town" in 2022, and it was voted one of "America's Most Charming Main Streets" in 2024. Accolades like these bring attention to Ocean Springs; however, the connections people form through small businesses, local art, lively festivals, and shared Southern hospitality set the city apart from other Gulf Coast communities.

A City Steeped In Rich History

When French explorer Pierre Le Moyne d'Iberville established Ocean Springs in 1699, it was just a small fishing community. But by the 19th century, it became widely known for its beautiful springs, cool coastal breezes, and distinctive Southern charm, which made it a famous tourist destination.

That hospitable attitude still exists today. The city's pride in its history is reflected in landmarks like the Historic Ocean Springs L&N Depot, which was constructed in 1907 and is currently home to the Ocean Springs Chamber of Commerce-Main Street-Tourism Bureau.

The Charnley-Norwood House is a monument that showcases Ocean Springs' profound love for architecture and historic preservation. It was partly co-designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, one of the world's most beloved architects.

Lively, Locally Owned Downtown

One of the many things to love about Ocean Springs is its walkable downtown area. It's lined with independently owned restaurants, art galleries, and charming boutiques that welcome locals and visitors in with wide arms.

Pleasant's BBQ, for example, has been offering a pleasant dining experience to everyone who walks through its doors since it opened in 1982. As the oldest restaurant in Ocean Springs, the family-owned and -operated establishment keeps diners returning for more because of its warm hospitality, delicious barbecue, and daily specials.

Nearby, Caboose Cones serves snow cones and ice cream out of an actual train caboose and is one of the most unique places to visit in Ocean Springs. Government Street Grocery, a neighborhood hangout that offers food, drinks, and live music in a laid-back setting, is another business that provides a welcoming atmosphere.

Beyond the dining scene, local gem Realizations: The Walter Anderson Shop is the city's heartbeat. While there, admire Walter Anderson's colorful murals and prints that capture the Gulf Coast's natural beauty. To discover more of the area, stop by The Pink Rooster/Gallery Garbo, which blends Southern hospitality with fine art.

A Welcoming Community Atmosphere

Beyond its local businesses, Ocean Springs sets itself apart from other Gulf Coast communities with its distinctive annual festivals and events.

For instance, the Taste of Ocean Springs Food & Wine Festival is an annual event held in May where locals and visitors come together to enjoy some of the city's best in the culinary scene with live entertainment as a bonus. The Red, White, & Blueberry Festival is another event that makes Ocean Springs shine as a friendly community. Held annually in June, the festival features local growers from the Ocean Springs Fresh Market, and it provides attendees with a fun experience with cooking sessions and free ice cream topped with blueberries and strawberries.

Other events the community looks forward to include the Peter Anderson Arts & Crafts Festival, which proudly draws tens of thousands of people to the city and showcases over 400 artisans worldwide. Far from just a tourist draw, the event, held every year in November, is a homegrown celebration of local talent and collaboration, named in honor of Peter Anderson, a master potter and founder of Shearwater Pottery.

Coastal Beauty And Outdoor Living

Surrounded by natural beauty, Ocean Springs offers easy outdoor access. A standout landmark to visit while there is the Davis Bayou Area within the Gulf Islands National Seashore. It's the perfect location to enjoy fishing, hiking, bird watching, biking, and ranger-led programs in a peaceful coastal setting.

The area also has a visitor center, which displays exhibits and has friendly and knowledgeable staff. Visitors can also explore the scenic Davis Bayou Trail and its surrounding area, including a fishing pier, boat launch, and a well-equipped campground.

For more outdoor discoveries, retreat to Fort Maurepas Park, known for its beachfront views and amenities including a playground, a splash pad, and shaded pavilions. Nearby, Ocean Springs Harbor is another place to visit as it supports the area's lively boating and fishing culture.

Meanwhile, Shearwater Park, Little Children’s Park, and the Gay-Lemon Complex promote healthy living and connection through sports fields, trails, and greenways, while Marshall Park anchors downtown events with its live oaks, public art, and bandstand.

Creative Spirit And Cultural Heart

Ocean Springs is widely recognized as the artistic heart of the Mississippi Gulf Coast. To get a feel for its local scene, visit the Walter Anderson Museum of Art, which celebrates the artist's life and legacy.

In addition, Ocean Springs artists frequently showcase their work at venues like the Mary C. O’Keefe Cultural Center, which hosts art classes, exhibitions, and performances, encouraging participation and creativity across generations. The dynamic venue is also the site of monthly events, like Fridays at the Fort, a free Friday evening event filled with food, music, and culture.

The city's community centers, such as the Ocean Springs Community Center, Ocean Springs Senior Citizens Center, or Ocean Springs Civic Center, are ideal for renting space for private meetings, workshops, wedding receptions, parties, dances, and other special events.

Ocean City makes a lasting impression with its vibrant arts scene, rich history, and hospitable outdoor culture that inherently unites people. You can take your time and genuinely connect there, with the locals, the environment, and even with yourself. You'll immediately sense the warmth and genuineness of the city, whether walking through the pedestrian-friendly downtown, enjoying slow-cooked ribs at Pleasant's BBQ, or tapping your foot to live music on Government Street. It's difficult to find a more unique combination of Southern charm, natural beauty, and authentic hospitality than this coastal gem.