This Is The Newest Park In Mississippi And It’s Incredible
If you think you’ve already been to all of Mississippi’s must-visit attractions, we’ve got some good news for you. There’s a new park on the Gulf Coast, and it’s incredible. The multi-million dollar facility offers plenty of opportunities for some outdoor fun. The highlight, though, is definitely the 208’ suspension bridge. Take a look:
Back in April, the University of Southern Mississippi (USM) opened the Marine Education Center in Ocean Springs.
Casey Dunn
It’s open to the public, so you don’t have to be affiliated with USM to visit.
The $10 million facility truly is a work of art. It was specifically designed to showcase the environment.
Photographer: Logan Austin
Both children and adults will find lots to see and do at the education center. But it’s the suspension bridge that’s sure to be a favorite of all ages.
Photographer: Logan Austin
The 208’ bridge makes for one memorable stroll, especially when you take into account that the bridge is designed to move. (Don’t worry, though. It only moves slightly, so it’s not as scary as it sounds.)
Casey Dunn
While the bridge alone is enough reason to visit the education center, it’s not the only reason.
Casey Dunn
Another is definitely the visitor’s center, which is filled with interactive digital displays.
Two of the most popular are NOAA’s Science on a Sphere and an augmented reality sandbox, where, according to staff member Erin Douglas, "people can shape a mountain or a river bed, then make it rain or flood."
Casey Dunn
Innovatively designed outdoor classrooms, which the center uses to host camps and other educational events, are also sure to catch your attention.
With practically no walls (and a few screens to keep the bugs out), the unique construction lets in the natural surroundings, creating the perfect place for some fun, hands-on learning.
Casey Dunn
The grounds also include boardwalks as well as a dock, where kayaks can be launched.
The Marine Education Center is located at 101 Sweetbay Dr., Ocean Springs, MS 39564. For more information, call (228) 818-8095. Alternatively, you can visit the Gulf Coast Research Lab website or Facebook page.
So, did you know about this recently opened attraction? Already visited? If so, what’d you think? Tell us in the comments section.
This isn’t the only must visit attraction on the Gulf Coast? Read about another here.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
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Though Daniella was born in New York and has lived in a couple of other states, Mississippi has been her home for the past 25 years. After graduating from the University of Southern Mississippi, Daniella began to hone her writing skills through various internships, working for The Royal Obsession and Anatomie clothing. In the years since, she’s had the privilege of having her articles appear in several publications, such as Parents & Kids Magazine and Girl Meets Strong. She’s also had the honor of interviewing actress Sela Ward for The Mississippi Arts and Entertainment Experience.
