Famous for its rich coastal landscape, beautiful beach towns and southern hospitality, here’s why you need to add the Mississippi Gulf Coast to your motorcycle bucket list
“The great Mississippi, the majestic, the magnificent Mississippi, rolling its mile-wide tide along, shining in the sun; the dense forest away on the other side…” – Mark Twain, American writer
With 62 miles of scenic coastline, providing views of the sparkling Gulf of Mexico, expansive sandy beaches, seaside towns and swaying palm trees, the Mississippi Gulf Coast no doubt provides a picturesque backdrop for a motorcycle adventure. And Mississippi is full of beautiful motorcycle rides.
The coastal highways along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, such as U.S. Route 90, offer smooth roads and scenic routes that are perfect for motorcycle riding. The open stretches provide an exhilarating and enjoyable riding experience. Feel the wind in your hair and the sun on your skin, and inhale the salty scents, as you cruise along the coast, taking in the refreshing coastal breeze.
Coastal Scenery
According to greatmotorcycleroads.com, U.S. 90 is approximately 80 miles, taking about two hours to ride through, and is largely straight, “so there’s plenty of opportunities to enjoy coastal scenery with great views of beaches and the Gulf, especially in the Biloxi Beach area”.
Riding along the Mississippi Gulf Coast allows you to explore charming beach towns and coastal communities including Bay St. Louis, Gulfport, Biloxi, Ocean Springs, and Pascagoula, each offering their own unique atmosphere and cultural attractions.
For example, in Biloxi, a must-visit attraction for history buffs is Beauvoir, the former home of Jefferson Davis, former president of the Confederate States of America throughout its existence during the American Civil War.
For some entertainment, make a pit stop at one of the waterfront casinos in Biloxi or Gulfport. Night owls will appreciate the nightlife scene, brimming with beachside bars, cocktail lounges, and breweries.
Recreational opportunities
The Mississippi Gulf Coast also offers a range of outdoor recreational opportunities. Take a break from your ride and engage in activities like fishing, boating, kayaking, or simply relaxing on the beach.
Discover local art galleries, museums, and cultural centers that showcase the region’s unique heritage, for example, the Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum in Biloxi. And of course, you’ll no doubt have worked up a hunger while on your motorcycle adventure! The Mississippi Gulf Coast is famous for its delicious seafood, from oysters to crabs – fresh from the waters of the Gulf!
The Reef in Biloxi is an award-winning seafood restaurant in Biloxi worth stopping by. For a BBQ fix, The Shed Barbecue and Blues Joint in Ocean Springs is a hidden gem. Owner Brad created the joint using junk from dumpsters that he had collected over the years! This is a perfect spot for a group of hungry riders to park up, grab a beverage and enjoy some tasty ribs!
Festivals & Events
The Mississippi Gulf Coast also hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year. Depending on the timing of your ride, you may have the chance to attend events such as the Biloxi Seafood Festival in September, the Cruisin’ The Coast classic car event in October, or one of the many music and arts festivals that celebrate the vibrant culture of the region.
There are also many motorcycle events held among local communities, which you can hear about on this Mississippi Gulf Coast Motorcycle Events Facebook group.
Riding a motorcycle along the Mississippi Gulf Coast provides a combination of scenic beauty, coastal charm, culinary delights, and cultural experiences. So hop on your motorcycle, embrace the coastal breeze, and embark on an adventure filled with the allure of the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
Tips: You can rent a bike from Explorify Motorcycle Rentals New Orleans.