The
town of Gulfport, Mississippi was founded in 1845, but it was not
until the completion of the Gulf and Ship Island Railroad, in 1902,
that it became a city with a population of over 5,000. Gulfport has
a long history of discovery and exploration, and the Port of
Gulfport is one of the nation's largest ports. Today it is a city of
over 71,000 and is an important seaport for shipping lumber, cotton,
and seafood, as well as being the largest banana port in North
America.
Luxurious
24 hour casino resorts thrive and championship golf courses rest
alongside centers for historical and cultural exhibits, museums,
historic homes, and other structures of architectural significance.
One
of the highlights of a family visit to Gulfport is an exploration of
Lynn Meadows Discovery Center. This hands-on museum allows
children to experience learning through exploration, discovery, and
role playing. Possibilities include producing an original
painting or other work of art, traveling to other countries to learn
their customs, operating a crane, broadcasting in the news center,
and discovering the mysteries of science. There is a tow-story
climbing structure, outdoor tree houses, and a Navy submersible.
Picnic areas and a toddler playground are available on the six acre
grounds.
The
Mississippi Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo brings thousands of visitors each
year to sample the thrill and excitement of the Mississippi Gulf
Coast.
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