History

Gulfport was incorporated on July 28, 1898. In 1902, the harbor was completed, and the Port of Gulfport became a working seaport. With about seven miles of man-made white sandy beaches along the Gulf of Mexico, Gulfport is one of the fastest-growing areas in the state, due in part to the influx of tourists and workers in the gambling industry. It's also home of the annual "Worlds Largest Fishing Rodeo."

Why you should go

Gulfport is a picturesque beachfront city on the Gulf of Mexico with a diverse culture and safe, family-oriented neighborhoods, theme parks, museums, historic sites, national parks and several other attractions. There are coastal beaches and beautiful boulevards along with islands and golf courses. There are also art centers and some antique shops lining the avenues seaside city. In addition to the Island View Casino, the attractions of nearby Biloxi (13 miles) are easily accessible.

Main attractions

* Fishing: Some of the best saltwater sport fishing in the Gulf of Mexico is easily available. There are many deep-sea fishing options an angler may choose to explore, and with the help and guidance of an experienced Mississippi fishing charter, the Gulf of Mexico can yield blue marlin, wahoo, and other big sport fish. http://www.gulfcoast.org/fishing/ or http://www.fintalk.com/business/mississippi-fishing.html

* Golf: With a climate that allows play year-round and plenty of courses available, it's an excellent place to tee it up. http://www.gulfcoast.org/golf/ or http://www.worldgolf.com/courses/usa/mississippi/gulfport/

* Ship Island (seasonal): The deep water port at Ship Island was where the French staged the settlement of Bollix, Ocean Springs and eventually New Orleans. It is one of the last undeveloped barrier islands in America. Part of Gulf Islands National Seashore and protected by the U.S. Park Service, Ship Island is about 11 miles off the Mississippi Coast. Locals and visitors rate the 22-mile round trip to Ship Island as the coast’s premier waterborne experience. Visit historic Fort Massachusetts (circa 1868) on your own, or on a Park Ranger-guided tour offered after the passenger ferries arrive at the island. www.msshipisland.com

* Gulf Island Waterpark (May-September): For summer family enjoyment, enjoy more than 18 acres of water rides and attractions, with a water roller-coaster, a 357-foot water slide and much more for all ages. http://www.gulfcoast.org/listings/index.cfm?action=display&catID=24&listingID=745&notify=1

Getting there

It takes a little more than six hours to cover the 400 miles from downtown Atlanta. Flights are available to Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport.

Helpful websites

* www.gulfcoast.org

* http://mscoastchamber.com

* http://www.ci.gulfport.ms.us/