Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1533069
This museum brings stories of struggle and triumph to life through immersive exhibits and thought-provoking displays. When your begin to research bringing your convention to Jackson, be certain to contact Rickey Thigpen, president/CEO of Visit Jackson, who along with his team, will help you put on an extraordinary event in Jackson. • • COASTAL MISSISSIPPI • • Stretching along the Gulf of Mexico, Coastal Mississippi is a haven of pristine beaches, fresh seafood, and lively enter- tainment. From Biloxi to Gulfport, this region blends Southern charm with a laid- back coastal vibe, offering the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. Whether vis- itors seek vibrant nightlife, peaceful natu- ral escapes, or rich historical sites, the Gulf Coast has something for everyone. Coastal Mississippi is the ultimate meetings and events destination. In Coastal Mississippi, you will discover near- ly 16,000 hotel rooms with flexible meet- ing spaces and accommodations through- out the region. Traveling to this destina- tion can be as easy as a drive away or even a plane ride with immediate access to the Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport. Poised to welcome your attendees both near and far, Coastal Mississippi's 12 unique coastal communities offer their brand of southern charm and hospitality. With 62 miles of scenic shoreline, includ- ing 26 miles of white sand beaches, the Mississippi Gulf Coast delivers an exclusive downtime experience for visitors with pristine beaches, abundant fishing, golf- ing, boating, water sports, excursions, and so much more! Looking for a fresh, spacious place to host your next convention, conference or meeting? Look no further than the Mississippi Coast Convention Center, the premiere destination for exhibitors, meet- ing planners and beyond. The Mississippi Coast Convention Center is fully equipped with all your convention, con- ference or meeting needs for a successful event! Centrally located in Biloxi, the 400,000-square-foot facility accommo- dates groups of up to 5,000 people. This state-of-the-art convention center offers all the modern amenities meeting plan- ners' desire. Perfect for large conferences or intimate events, it is ideally located fac- ing the Gulf of Mexico within walking dis- tance of the beach. Offering locally excit- ing casinos, championship golf, local seafood, excellent entertainment, great shopping, southern hospitality, and miles of sand beaches, the Mississippi Gulf Coast has MORE! When it's time to relax, soft white sand and clear waters, the coastline provides idyllic spots for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. Visitors can explore the scenic Gulf Islands National Seashore, a protected area known for its pristine nat- ural beauty. Beyond the beaches, the Gulf Coast is home to cultural attractions like the Walter Anderson Museum of Art and the Ohr-O'Keefe Museum, which celebrate local artists and the region's creative lega- cy. Festivals such as the Peter Anderson Arts & Crafts Festival and the Crawfish Music Festival bring the community together for unforgettable celebrations of art, food, and music. • • NATCHEZ • • Settled along the Mississippi River, Natchez is a city that exudes Southern ele- gance, with its well-preserved antebellum mansions and breathtaking riverfront views. It's a destination rich in history, offering visitors a glimpse into the past with its charming architecture and vibrant cultural scene. Founded in 1716, it is one of the oldest cities in Mississippi and played a crucial role in the development of the American South. Natchez offers everything you need for planning a meeting or finessing an itiner- ary for a group tour. Large groups will feel welcomed in their state-of-the-art Natchez Convention Center or their many conference hotels and venues. Their con- vention services staff will connect you with the experts you need to pull off a perfect event, from top-notch catering to skilled audio/visual technicians. For small- er groups, let them assist in coordinating fun, enriching itineraries and group tours tailored to your interest and needs. WHO YOU GONNA CALL? Visit Natchez – (601) 492-3000 info@visitnatchez.org 64 B M & T ••• March/April 2025 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com AREA GUIDES • • • STATS • • • HOTEL ROOMS Beau Rivage Resort & Casino (Biloxi) 1,740 IP Casino Resort Spa (Biloxi) 1,088 Golden Nugget Biloxi 704 Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Biloxi 479 EXHIBITION FACILITIES Mississippi Coast Coliseum & Convention Center (Biloxi) Total Exhibit Space 400,000 sq. ft. Largest Exhibit Hall 126,000 sq. ft. Largest Ballroom 25,000 sq. ft. Meeting Rooms 22 WHO YOU GONNA CALL? Coastal Mississippi Tourism (888) 467-4853 gulfcoast.org Mississippi Coast Convention Center photo credit: Coastal Mississippi Tourism