Bus tours from Biloxi to New Orleans

I searched for bus tours from Biloxi to New Orleans and only hit upon a response from 2005. My husband has never been down to the area and we are thinking of taking up MGM on a free offer in June. He wants to go to New Orleans but he doesn%26#39;t want to drive there. Does anyone know if Grayline or anyone offers a day trip to New Orleans?? (I went to Graylines site and couldn%26#39;t figure it out)

Also, I read that there is a casino shuttle that will take you from casino to casino in Biloxi. I would be interested in any information on this also.

Thanks In Advance!!!!!

Bus tours from Biloxi to New Orleans

I couldn%26#39;t find bus ';tours'; per say but if you select departing from Biloxi going to New Orleans it does turn up departures. It shouldn%26#39;t be a problem getting there but you%26#39;d probably have to explore the city on your own! :)

That said the drive is quite easy and there are plenty of places to park in the city. You have to pay for most of them but you can sometimes get spots along the riverwalk for free. You can also park for free by where the homeless people hang out (just past the French Market)... may not be considered the best idea by some but I%26#39;ve had no problems with it. ;)

Bus tours from Biloxi to New Orleans

The Greyhound bus makes the trip from Biloxi to NO once or twice a day. If you want a bus tour around NO when you get there, Grayline offers lots of choices.

www.graylineneworleans.com

Any pet friendly casino hotels

I am looking to take my mom on a girls getaway but she will want to take her little dog with her. Any pet friendly casino hotels? TIA.

just booked first trip to Biloxi! 4/1-4/4

I am very excited! My husband and I just booked our first trip to Biloxi. We will be visiting on 4/1 to 4/4. We are flying in from Tampa via a deal through the Beau (which is where we%26#39;ll be staying).

I have been reading up about suggestions on places to eat and gamble. Any other suggestions you have will be welcomed!

One question I have is about the comps. We are pretty new to gambling except for a few visits here and there to the Tampa Hard Rock. Do you have any suggestions on how to go about getting things compped? What do you have to do to earn these other than get a Player%26#39;s Card immediately and begin using it while playing?

Thanks for your help and I%26#39;ll post a trip report after we return! :)

just booked first trip to Biloxi! 4/1-4/4

All of the casinos are different with their comp procedures and they seem to keep it secret. Video poker players do not receive comps as fast as table or slot players.

Go out to each casinos web site and you can see any meal specials; i.e. Hard Rock and Isle of Capri have different days for buy one get one free or reduced rates.

Palace was giving ten dollars free play with a meal purchase, but not sure if that is still going on. Island View (Gulfport) is offering a special for new player sign ups with free play.

Had breakfast the other day at the Grand which was better than usual. Had enough on my card and don%26#39;t gamble there very often.

We do most of our play at IP (low rollers, video poker and slots). Have not paid for a room or meal there in years and we visit maybe two times a month.

Everyone has their favorites, but we always seem to have more luck at the IP. Have never had much success at the Beau or Hard Rock.

just booked first trip to Biloxi! 4/1-4/4

Good luck on your coming trip and I am sure you will enjoy it. My wife and I are going up 3/26 to 3/29. We are from Lutz, Fl. We are staying at the IP. Like Nane, I haven%26#39;t paid for a room or a meal in over 9 years. I am a ';low rollar';.

The Beau is by far the best property in Biloxi, with the IP trying to catch up. Comps are the Beau is a mystery. Some people have no problems, others have. The problem with the Beau is that you have to ask at the player%26#39;s club for that free buffet. In your case you will have the charges go to your room. Before you check out, you go to the Players Club and see how much they will take off depending on your play. The one issue with the Beau is that once you leave, any comps you have gather is gone. Most others let you keep them as long as you visit the property onve every 6 months or a year. My food comp balance at the IP is over $200.

I would also go over to the Hard Rock next door. Hard Rock will give you $10 free play when you join and if you earn 50 points they will give you another $10 the next day. Also they have a great buffet deal on Wednesdays and Fridays. The Beau%26#39;s buffet is so good and is the best in Biloxi but the Hard Rock you can get eggs to order, meat, taters, coffee, juice, pastries for $4.99? Lunch is $5.99. Good budget move. Also go to biloxione.com It%26#39;s a forum like this with additional information on what you are looking for. Post the same question.

Treasure Bay casino is giving $100 back on second day to new players so you might want to go there and get your players card. Free slot tournements at the Hard Rock on Thurs and Sundays from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m.

You can go to www.ctyankeeinbiloxi and click on casinos. There is a hyperlink for all Biloxi/Gulfport casino there.

Check out the walter anderson museum of art in ocean springs. Just across the Biloxi bridge. Lots of nice shopping here also.

RavnFan--

How was the trip? Did you fly on Allegiant from St Pete airport?

We are going to BR on 4/22-4/25 and would like to see a few of the casinos and try some local restaurants.

Any chance you had any meals at Blowfly or Lookout49 in Gulfport or have other suggestions?

Thanks for any info.

Loki: LookOut, Gulfport = scrumptious!

Tr Feb 14-17 Bally's, Slot Wins and an Illness ;)

This would be our second adventure to the Tunica area to both celebrate my loving fiancees forty something birthday and valentines.

Debbie, my fiancee, had wanted to get away for a long, romantic week end to include some gaming, an adventure to Memphis to explore Beale St., and just relax together.

With a call to Bally%26#39;s, I was able to secure a room for Feb. 14 at $100, and the two following nights for a combined rate of #35.00 using a comp offer.

We left from home Sat. morning at a little before 5:00am knowing a eight hour drive was ahead. Stop just outside of Birmingham for breakfast at Cracker Barrel and fuel, back on the road.

Shortly after getting onto 78 and passing Jasper Ala., both of us started to have stomach cramps. Although this is not all that odd for my fiancee, for me it is so rare that we now suspect that our breakfast was the route of all my discomfort the entire trip and still remains today, but all appears to be clearing up thankfully.

We exited 78 onto 302 at Olive Branch and traffic was heavy, being nearly 11:30 on a Sat. Finally after the almost half hour drive through Olive Branch and Horn Lake, we get onto 61 and just fifteen minutes later were turning onto Casino Drive heading to Harrah%26#39;s.

I won%26#39;t spend a lot of time doing a play by play, so let me do this -

The Casino%26#39;s : We played them all, visiting Bally%26#39;s often. Several nice wins at Bally%26#39;s, smaller ones at the Hollywood, The Fitz, the Horseshoe, and the Sheraton. Although a ';Holiday'; weekend, we noticed that all the casino%26#39;s were less busy then our prior visit in May.

Dining: We enjoyed the Cornucopia Buffet twice for dinner, twice for breakfast and will happily enjoy it again on our next trip. Paula Dean%26#39;s for dinner was not what we both remembered from our first visit which was on the grand opening evening. At $17.99 each, it was pricey, but there was a great selection available and the staff were friendly, courteous and provided excellent service. One breakfast was enjoyed at the Hollywood Cafe in the Hollywood Casino. We love this place - Service, Value, and Quality are fantastic.

Bally%26#39;s Hotel: The Hotel is quit dated, reminding of an older ';Sleep Inn'; type hotel. We had reserved a King suite for our stay, having made these reservations and knowing check in was after 4:00pm, we decided to get so play in prior to check in. We got over to the hotel which is not directly connected to the casino and were told we would have to settle for a Double Double Room as all rooms were first come first serve. As I made the reservations, I assure you all, this was never mentioned. The lady whom checked us in, told us to check back prior to 4:00pm the following day and they would happily transfer us to a King Suite. Followed the advice and were told that they were booked solid and would have to ';Just Deal'; with our room. Lets get the bigger picture in our opinion - We recieved a Special Rate so were not paying the $185 for Sat. and were getting the next two nights for #35.00 combined. It was our opinion that they, the employee at the hotel felt that we were to much a bother. I welcome all who read this and think I am Just a Complainer, I ask you read my numerous TR%26#39;s for Las Vegas, Biloxi and our prior visit to Tunica. You will note that I have never complained about much of anything and usually prefer to exclude such things as they may be other then the norm.

Although the room was clean, there were numerous burns in the carpet (Rm 2120), Paint residue on carpet and drapes, beds were old and extremely soft. The bathroom was tiny.

On closing, my stomach ailment forced me to remain in bed all day Monday, a day we were to go to Memphis and visit and explore Beale St. (A quick Thanks to the Memphis Forum for all their help and advice.

We had a good time, won some money but most importantly, had some special time together.

Tr Feb 14-17 Bally's, Slot Wins and an Illness ;)

I just wanted to add, that we LOVED Bally%26#39;s casino, and now knowing the hotel%26#39;s policy, would consider staying there again.

Tr Feb 14-17 Bally's, Slot Wins and an Illness ;)

Making mental note not to visit the Cracker Barrel in Birmingham!!!!!

I confirm you are NOT a complainer and am sad to see you were not given more consideration by the staff at Bally%26#39;s to accomodate you...and as you and I both know, they had something available they could have assigned to you EVEN IF THEY TELL YOU THEY ARE BOOKED SOLID!!!!

Other than those snafus, it looks like you had a good time with the gaming part and thanks for posting your report. I%26#39;ll see you back over on the Vegas page :)

Enjoyed your TR, PP! I can also vouch for you for your comments on the Vegas forum. Not a complainer!!

Too bad about your stomach bug. I%26#39;ll remember not to eat at Cracker Barrel. I%26#39;m guessing it%26#39;s the one right off I-459 on U.S. Highway 280.

Sounds like you had a nice trip in spite of the bug and the room confusion!!

Last year when we went to Beale St. we were dancing at B.B. Kings and I pulled a huge muscle in my hip around midnight. It was so bad, we had to leave Memphis at 5:00 a.m. and cancel the remainder of our trip. I still can%26#39;t believe I injured myself DANCING!!! At that time, I was working out 5-7 days per week.

Go figure!

See you back on the Vegas forum.:)

Hello PP,

We visited Tunica for the first time right after Christmas. We ate Paula Deen%26#39;s twice - once for breakfast and once for dinner. I really think my daughter would love to eat it again and would think the 7 1/2 hour drive would be worth it.

We only played at Hollywood one time but agree with you about the vibe. We didn%26#39;t eat there but loved the decor and seemed to be able to play longer on our money. We also liked Sam%26#39;s Town casino.

Had the least amount of luck at Harrah%26#39;s properties.

Sorry to hear you were sick.

Tutfam

See you on the LV forum too!

Deep sea fishing

Hi. I was wondering if anyone had advice on deep sea fishing charters. There are so many options and boats to pick from. Are there deals to be had around the middle of March? I think a half day tour would be the best bet for my group.

Deep sea fishing

Curious what you came up with. We plan to go out in May, but, like you, have no idea which one.

Terrace

Will be staying at the Terrace in April can anyone tell m what hotel this was before Terrace? Does anyone know anything about this property? Looking forward to Tunica.

Terrace

I just ret%26#39;d from a 3-night stay at the Terrace in Tunica. I%26#39;ve stayed there before so I can probably answer your specific questions.

The facility is lovely. The view from my hotel window was very nice. Valet parking is free.

People who work at the Terrace have been sweet as pie to me during my visits.

I don%26#39;t know what the hotel was before it was The Terrace; however, the hotel is a half-mile from the nearest casino (The Grand). There aren%26#39;t any ';real'; restaurants on the premises at The Terrace. There is a coffee shop that sells overpriced sandwiches, sweet rolls and coffee.

Harrah%26#39;s does run a ';free'; shuttle 24/7 from The Terrace to The Grand Casino. During limited hours, Harrah%26#39;s also offers a ';free'; shuttle from the Grand Casino to its sister property, The Horseshoe Casino.

The Terrace%26#39;s swimming pool is outdoors, so it probably won%26#39;t be very inviting in April ... but maybe...

The fitness club charges a $5 per person per day fee. If you want to use the whirlpool or sauna, it%26#39;s $20 per person per day. They charge $12 per day to hook up to their wireless internet.

Both times I%26#39;ve stayed there, my room has had a mini-fridge and one-cup coffeemaker.

I would charge any of these niceties to my room. You may be able to pay for them with comps when you check out.

Terrace

thanks you have been very helpful

Ditto all what GbKaren stated.... My wife and I have stayed at most of the Tunica casino based hotels through out the years. I must say the Terrace has always hands down the best in all catorgories.

Do buy a few extra coffee singles and bottle water (very soft water). That single cup coffee just gets me mad for more ;-).

Hope you all enjoy your trip and many jackpots to ya because i fed the machines pior to your visit.

I just booked for the second weekend in May (dang all comp!!! a first)at the terrace --------Timothyinmphs

oily skin

Biloxi or Gulf Shores

We (47 %26amp; 49 married couple) are taking our 21 year old daughter on her 21st BDay trip. Looking at Gulfshores or Biloxi, MS. Had always told her we%26#39;d take her to Vegas but decided we didn%26#39;t want to fund her gambling and she%26#39;s a college student without much money. Figured she%26#39;d blow her daily gambling allowance of $100/day in an hour and then what. Anyway, she%26#39;d not a huge partier by any means and had looked into other areas, hence, Gulf Shores or Biloxi. Just a three-day trip. But here%26#39;s what we%26#39;d like - she loves to sit at the beach, loves to golf, we%26#39;d eat out each night at a fun place. Which town would be better. Looking for a place to stay beachfront with restaurant/bar at the location. Do any beachfront condos have that option. I hear by reading on the forums that most beachfront lodging is condos but do they have restaurants or bars by the pool. Only staying a short time so want some pampering. THANKS!

Biloxi or Gulf Shores

Sorry, forgot to add that we%26#39;re looking at coming Memorial Day weekend. Is it warm enough to sit by the beach then and get in the water?

Biloxi or Gulf Shores

If you are mainly interested in beaches, beautiful water, and NO gambling, then you might want to look at Gulf Shores. I don%26#39;t know about golf courses there...maybe you could research Gulf Shores, AL, on TA.

Otherwise, Biloxi does have golf courses and really nice casino/resorts. The beach there is full of pretty white sand; but the water is not wavy nor of the pretty blue/green color near shore. This is due to the area not being too far from the mouth of the Mississippi River and the islands not far from the coastline to keep wave action down to almost none. You can catch the Ship Island boat out of Gulfport to see the pretty blue/green water on the Gulf side of the island...this is also just a fun little excursion.

Just investigate both areas here on T.A. You will get alot of info here.

Although we love Biloxi and the casinos are the big draw, sounds like you need to visit Gulf Shores/Orange Beach. Beautiful beaches, great seafood restaurants, outlet shopping. Not many condos have on site restaurants, but many are within walking distance depending where you stay. Gets very busy during Memorial Day so make your reservations early.

All the beaches east of Mobile Bay are fantastic and each area has a character of its own. Sands are sugar white and water blue-green. Water temp in late May will be about mid 70%26#39;s, temps in high 80%26#39;s, but often still a bit windy. Memorial day is the official opening day of beach season. Most areas crowded. The beaches west of Mobile Bay are brown sand except the Biloxi/Gulfport area where they import the white sands. There is no surf/waves because the are sandbars miles offshore that brake the waves. You might also consider the Pensacola area. It is very family oriented and close enough to restaurants/shopping and tourist stuff. It is just about the same distance from Mobile as GulfShores. Again Memorial Day is a very busy weekend at the beach.

I agree with the other comments...we spent one week at Gulf Shores. We found lots of things to do along the Gulf from New Orleans to Pennsacola (we had a week so drove all over the area). We really liked the beach along that area.

A trip to Ft. Morgan is time well spent, and we saw the military park at Mobile which my husband really enjoyed.

Family and I went to Gulf Shores two years back- great time!

Previous comments have been right on- IMHO. Gulf Shores is a great place and we really enjoyed the genuine hospitality.

I am heading to Biloxi next weekend for gamble/golf weekend with old friends- when are you going? I will be happy to provide comparison feedback when I return.

However, one drawback to the beach experience we encountered in G.S.- stinging jellyfish and lots of them. This is not an everyday problem but when the ';come in';, get out of the surf. We saw jellies ranging in size from a dime up to a foot (with tentacles). The big ones are fairly easy to see and avoid but my whole family got stung at some point over the two days they were in the surf.

Put it this way, when the jelly%26#39;s came in, the locals got out. The beaches were still busy but not the water. If you get in with them, you will get stung- so have some remedy handy to deal with the sting.

FYI, we%26#39;re neighbors in P.V. and have great friends in KCK

Kansas City K: I would recommend Gulf Shores for the beaches and the clarity of the water. You should probably visit the TA forum from that area to get more info on what is available entertainment for your 21 year old.

Also, you should ask the question about the jellyfish situation, as it can be a factor along the coast albeit you visit will be early in the season and I would expect the water temps to be a little on the cool side, and the jellies might not be as prevalent then.

Good luck on your visit.

public transport

Hello

Does Tunica have a public bus service?? to outlet mall, other casinos etc.

Linda

public transport

Linda, as far as i can tell you will need a car to travel between the two major casino clusters and Memphis, Harrah%26#39;s operates a van servicde between all of their properties. Dixie.

public transport

Was in Tunica in Oct 2008. There is no bus service or cab service...you have to get a cab from Memphis and pay their fee to and from in addition to where you go.

Entertainment district and hotel?

Is there an entertainment district in Vicksburg? I know there are casinos. Im looking for something similar to Beal St, or Bourbon St.

I will be staying 2 or 3 nights the first week in June and would like to stay at a hotel near bars and restaurants. I am not interested in chain restaurants/bars (no chilis, outback, etc).

I really prefer dive bars and places where locals hangout. As far a restaurants Rusty%26#39;s and Walnuts look interesting.

I%26#39;d like to find a hotel less than 150 a night, closer to 100 would be great. I don%26#39;t have a problem staying in a casino.

Any suggestions will be greatly appreciated.

Entertainment district and hotel?

Vicksburg is not all that big of a city. The closest thing to a ';nightlife district'; WOULD be the casinos, OR historic Washington Street. A few bars %26amp; restaurants there-locally owned w/ music on weekends, etc. The closest hotel to all this is probably Cedar Grove, which is historical and lovely, but I am not sure if %26lt;$150. Depends on your dates. Two casino hotels are close to the area, but NOT walking distance.

The hotels you do NOT want (location wise) are exit 1C (Halls Ferry, Pemberton), and exit 4 (East Clay).

Both those restaurants are favorites, and both very good. Rusty%26#39;s is on Washington Street, by the River.

Walnut Hills is a ';round table'; where you are seated with other people, served big bowls fo comfrt food/Southern Cooking, and pass them around. Very, very good. Slightly overpriced, but worth it for the exoerience, adn the food IS good. Not much of a night hang out place though.

Have fun,

Miller

Entertainment district and hotel?

We go to Vicksburg every summer on our way to blues festivals in the Delta.

We always stay at Diamond Jacks. We are never there on the weekends so, I don%26#39;t know what the weekend rates are. The weekday rates are very reasonable. You can upgrade to a suite for about $70/night. The suites have balconies that overlook the Mississippi River. The casino is small but we really like it.

We have never gone to any of the bars in Vicksburg. You can hear live music at the Ameristar Casino---Bottleneck Blues Bar on the weekends and the Cabaret both on the weekends and during the week. I have noticed that they sometimes have live music at the Horizon Casino on the weekends. If you are interested, drink service is very good at all three of the casinos I listed.

Rusty%26#39;s is a must for us every visit. Also, Jacques at the Battlefield Inn is a really good place to eat in the evening. The buffets at the casino%26#39;s are not very good so, I wouldn%26#39;t even bother to go to them.

Feel free to PM me if I can answer any questions for you.

Nanaju

we were passing thru vicksburg and just needed a place to sleep a few hours, we stayed at the Fairfield Inn which is located on 1c exit. it was a pretty nice hotel, was very clean and well kept. we payed $100.00 on a thursday night. we were also told to stay away from exit 1c but this one turned out to be ok.

Tunica Dinner Cruise

I have noticed this on the somthing to do in Tunica does anyone know anything about it?

Tunica Dinner Cruise

Hubby and I did this a couple years ago and enjoyed it. It lasts a couple hours and you have a nice dinner with drinks and a live little band with a small dance floor. Here is the website

http://www.tunicaqueen.com/dinner.htm

Tunica Dinner Cruise

Thanks

Best Mississippi Blues Festivals

We need some advice on the best blues festivals to attend. We were all set to go to the jukejoint festival in Clarksdale and cancelled due to bad weather. I notice a lot of festivals up in the delta, but don%26#39;t know much about them. We will have to drive 6 hours, so we want to make sure we choose a good event. I noticed several are coming up in May, but they don%26#39;t seem to be as big as the jukejoint. We would also love any advice on neat little B and Bs and places to eat and visit.

Best Mississippi Blues Festivals

I%26#39;ma afraid I can%26#39;t answer your question about details of festivals, but a great fun place to stay:

www.shackupinn.com

Also, if you look through

www.visitthedelta.com

they have a fairly comprehensive calendar AND lists of things to do.

Have a geat trip,

Miller

Best Mississippi Blues Festivals

When are you planning on going?

We have gone to the Highway 61 Blues Festival in Leland, Ms several times and really enjoyed it. That one is a rather small one day festival which will be June 6 this year.They set up 2 stages. At the smaller stage you will hear alot of ';Delta Blues';. The performers tend to hang around the small stage and visit with each other which is fun to experience. You will see mostly local talent at this festival.I haven%26#39;t looked at their line-up for this year but you are likely to see Eden Brent, Bill Abel and Cadillac John, and Lightnin Malcolm among others. The day after, there is a jam session in Holly Ridge (near Leland). (Charlie Patton%26#39;s grave is in the Holly Ridge cemetary.) The Holiday Inn in Greenville is a nice place to stay.

We have also been to the Sunflower Blues and Gospel Festival in Clarksdale and will be going to that one again this year. This is a 3 day festival which will be Ausust 7,8 and 9 this year. We will be staying in Tunica which is a pleasant 1 hour drive from Clarksdale. (We like to gamble at Harrah%26#39;s properties and can get excellent rates in Tunica so that is why we stay there. Also, Memphis (Bealle Street) is a 1 hour drive from Tunica.)

We have traveled from Texas to ';The Delta'; the last 6 years for our ';Blues Fix'; so I do have some knowledge of the area. Feel free to PM me if you have any questions that I can try to answer for you.

Blues Rules, Nanaju

Thanks for the great information and web sites. I was looking at the Leland festival last night. I also like the delta website. I have also considered the little festival on May 9 in Rosedale. That would give us a chance to drive up to Clarksdale and check out some of the sites and juke joints we missed for their festival.

If you are going to Clarksdale (other than at Festival time), you can rent ';apartments'; above the Ground Zero Club. Although not a B%26amp;B, they are pretty cool and are quite reasonable. You can find the info by going to the Ground zero site. I also have a few pictures on the Clarksdale site I think.

Would love to see your pictures. The August blues and gospel festival sounds interesting as well. I wonder how hot the delta is at that time of year.

Need Hotel

Coming for Thanksgiving. Need a nice place to stay. Will have 2 small children. Anyone know about Comfort Inn or Holiday Inn??

oily skin

Outdoor Pools in Tunica

Visiting Tunica in mid-June. Choices to stay are: Sam%26#39;s Town, Bally%26#39;s, Harrah%26#39;s Veranda, Harrah%26#39;s Terrace and Horseshoe. Which outdoor pool is the best. We want to spend a lot of time outside at the pool before gambling each day.

Thanks for any advice. Have only stayed at Veranda before and that was in October and pool was closed!

Outdoor Pools in Tunica

We have only stayed at the Tunica Harrah%26#39;s Terrace which had a great pool. That was in March 2009 and we return in a couple of weeks on a casino junket. Too cold for it to open at this time of the year.

Mid-June should be great weather and hope no bugs will be out in force at that time.

We really loved the Terrace Hotel. We had a great time on our first free trip and we look forward to our next free trip !!!!!

Best of luck because that is ALL it IS . . .

Outdoor Pools in Tunica

We stayed at the Veranda twice last summer. Their pool is very nice with plenty of lounge chairs. The landscaping is nothing special. They do have a bar at the pool.

The Horseshgoe has the best casino, best buffet, and best rooms, but their outdoor pool is not well taken care of and shamful. We were there 2 years ago, and there were wasps everywhere, including dead in the pool. It was terrible. Like you, we like to spend our days outdoors by a good pool.

But everything else about that hotel/casin is great.

Sams has a nice outdoor pool and setting although small.

';Downtown Tunica';

During an October 2008 stay in Tunica, I drove to downtown Tunica while my husband was in a poker tournament. It certainy was not what the Tunica Visitors website described. Although the town square was cute and had pretty fall flowers and pumpkin decorations, I found very few shops for tourists and I think I was the only tourist walking around. One shop I stopped in had a few jars of jelly (made locally) marked for $6 each. When I picked one up, the clerk hollered that it was half price. I think that was because it looked old and dusty and she wanted to make a sale. I was throughly disappointed in the lack of shops and guess I won%26#39;t go back again unless there has been some big renovations since.

Has anyone else shopped the town square of Tunica?? I am going in June with a girlfriend and don%26#39;t know if we should waste our time going there. I did enjoy the outlet mall close to the casinos and would go there again.

Tupelo restaurant suggestions

If you know the Tupelo area, can you recommend a restaurant that can accomodate a large group of 13-14 year old girls and their parents. There will be about 36 people and we would love a restaurant that would have a separate room. Thanks.

Tupelo restaurant suggestions

Hi

We live in England and know Tupelo quite well.

Last april with friends from Tupelo we went to Ryans steakhouse, it%26#39;s a buffet style place it%26#39;s quite big and might suit your needs. Some local of course would probably have more info, but if not, try Ryan%26#39;s.

Hope that helps.

Any more info you need, ask me, always happy to help.

Moviemaker

Tupelo restaurant suggestions

I think I%26#39;ll give there a try I haven%26#39;t eat there,

The problem I had last year was my hotel gave you free beer, coke, popcorn, crisps (potato chips) hotdogs, southern fried chicken etc.

at night, with the massive free breakfast all i bought were my lunches.

Although I%26#39;m going back to that same hotel, what the heck I%26#39;ll still go out for dinner one night

If you are going to Tupelo there is a great Mexican rest right on the main drag. Not sure of the name but it is pink and you cant miss it. Food if fab and service for a big group(sweaty soccer players) was impeccable. We will go there every year from now on!

IF you have never been to Danvers try it also for lunch - great food.

Vanellis for dinner but not with a crowd

Wow, I disagree with all of the suggestions on this page. I grew up in Tupelo, and there are much better options!

My first recommendation is Harvey%26#39;s. They%26#39;re locally owned, have a great party room, and are always happy to accomodate crowds. Also, the food is excellent! Ask for the Delta Chicken. It%26#39;s not on the menu, but they%26#39;re always happy to whip it up.

If Harvey%26#39;s doesn%26#39;t work for you, try Jefferson Place (known as JP%26#39;s locally). It%26#39;s a fun little restaurant in an old house with creaky wooden floors and live music on the weekends. The people there are local, and they%26#39;ll be happy to accomodate your group. Check to make sure they allow people under 18 in on the weekends. I%26#39;m not sure what their policy is.

Vanelli%26#39;s is another good bet. Tupelo locals love this place because of the good Greek and Italian food, the sweet family that owns the place, and the laid-back atmosphere. They are also happy to accomodate groups. Their Greek salad is fantastic, and their Greek pizza will knock you out!

Fusion 205 is a new restaurant that%26#39;s supposed to be good. I%26#39;ve only had drinks there, but everyone I know says the food is yummy. Check the prices before you go. I%26#39;m not sure how expensive it is.

So...those are my recommendations! Take it from a local -- skip Ryan%26#39;s, Danver%26#39;s, and Las Margaritas (the Mexican restaurant someone else recommended but couldn%26#39;t remember the name of).

If you have any quesitons, feel free to leave me a note here or email me. I%26#39;d love to help you navigate my home town! Have a great trip!

harvey%26#39;s hands down. you%26#39;ll love it. we did!!!!

Is Jefferson Place still open? I saw your post and when I searched for the place, it said it had a fire. I cannot find any information saying that it is open.

Unfortunately, it did burn down, and they decided not to rebuild.

Thank you for that information....

memphis to tunica

Mapquest is showing a straight shot down 61. I thought I read something about the new interstate 69. What%26#39;s the best way to go?

memphis to tunica

We go 61. It is a straight shot into Tunica.

Beau Rivage offer

Hi..first time on the Mississippi forum, long time resident on the Vegas forum. I just received an offer for the Beau Rivage for 5/10-5/13. The offer includes free air and hotel from Knoxville. Although I was perplexed as to why I got the offer...I have only played a small amount at MGM properties in Las Vegas, I did call and book. My wife and I used to make frequent trips to the Gulf pre Katrina and enjoyed it so very much. We have been to Biloxi, Gulfport and Bay St. Louis. I would appreciate any opinions and information on the Beau Rivage.

Beau Rivage offer

Visit Biloxi frequently, but don%26#39;t stay at the Beau. Lot of folks on biloxione.com are familiar with the Beau Rivage. They may be able to help.

Beau Rivage offer

Beau is first class operation. It is about a 20-30 drive from airpost in Gulfport. Casino was not seriously injured by Katrina. You will not be disappointed. Local shuttle bus to carry you between other casinos.

Thanks for your replies...guess I will book! Hey...free is free...lol

Great comps! The Beau is beautiful....you will like it. Good luck!

The Beau is a little sis of the Bellagio.....just a tad toned down. Check out the other casinos while you are there...Hard Rock is about a 3 or 5 min. walk away from the Beau.....about a block away. Check out the IP which is on the Back Bay about a 7 to 10 min. drive directly North of the Beau. Do some research on this forum and you will learn alot from others.

Hi SmokeyMountainMan,

I just returned from staying at the Beau Tuesday. The hotel and casino are nice, and it%26#39;s a terrific amuse bouche if you%26#39;re between Vegas trips.

HOTEL - Very nice. In a couple of respects it%26#39;s reminicent of Bellagio, but not Bellagio-like. It does have similar signage and the lobby has glass ceilings, but I felt that%26#39;s where the simiilarities stopped. The hotel rooms are nice and beds are comfortable. Housekeeping service was great too.

DINING - Ate at the buffet for dinner and for breakfast. What is great about the dinner buffet is it highlights regional cuisine. The breakfast buffet was the typical fare and can%26#39;t go wrong for $9.99. I ordered room service for dinner one night (ribeye) and it was excellent. Grabbed a coffee at The Roasted Bean and it was good too (quite similar to The Roasted Bean at the Mirage).

CASINO - The casino has a large variety of reel and video slots in all denominations (didn%26#39;t pay too much attention to the tables). There is a non-smoking slots section which was nice to play in. The casino does get rather smokey (and I%26#39;m a casino smoker) but after a while there you don%26#39;t think about it until you shed those clothes and realize they smell like a dirty ash tray. Nothing against the Beau for this, MGM Grand Detroit is exactly the same when it comes to smokiness. Somehow Vegas got the forumla right in their casinos where the smoke doesn%26#39;t feel so thick.

OTHER CASINOS - Went to the Hard Rock each day to mix up play. The casino was a little slower than Beau which was really nice. The walk is five minutes (if that) from front door to front door. Ate at the buffet at Hard Rock for lunch one day. Unfortunately some of the food selections I made had been sitting for a while and was difficult to chew let alone taste (the fried ravioli and pork ribs specifically).

I enjoyed my first trip to Biloxi. I had a great time; enjoy your trip next month!

Thanks guys...it sounds like I won%26#39;t be disappointed at all. I think I remember reading someplace that the Beau was somewhat simialr to the Bellagio. I%26#39;ve been to the B several times to gamble but have never stayed there. I always stay where I get the best offers and have stayed at the Venetian the past few trips. I%26#39;m staying at Paris in July mainly because I%26#39;ve never stayed there and want to experience a new hotel although I%26#39;ve gambled and eaten there.

My expereinces in Mississippi casinos, in cluding Biloxi have been an overnight junket experience, mostly in Tunica. Best I remember, our last trip to Biloxi was to Boomtown and that%26#39;s been years ago. Beau%26#39;s location sounds a bit like Casino Center in Tunica which has the Sheraton, Horseshoe and Goldstrike very close to each other. I will enjoy being able to visit other casinos. I remember seeing news reports right after Katrina and seeing the hardrock guitar sign and hearing that the were supposed to open the next day and got severly hit. How sad.

Anyway, I really appreciate the help. Oh, as a side note, I received a call from the BR YESTERDAY with an offer for the same trip next weekend, 4/17-4/20....lol..As much as I would love to do that one, I will have to pass..the trip next month and then the Vegas trip in July....wow..have to save some money...lol

I find Biloxi casinos and folks very cordial. Experiences at Vegas have been been stress...they seem distant and rude and not apprieciative of my visit. They seem to say ';take or leave it';. Biloxi has won me over.

Hey Smokey!!! We recieved the same offer but for different dates and were wondering the same thing?? Why we got it and how was it??? I have been fighting this illness and am on the good side of it and I think that this sounds like a trip we may take MGM up on. Calling to reserve June 3-7 right now!!!

Smokey, actually really the only casinos close together are the Hard Rock and Beau Rivage...within short walking distance that is.

Going East on up Beach Blvd. about 5 minutes by car is the Grand Casino/Resort and a little further on beach side is the Isle of Capri. I guess if you are a walker, you can walk it; but not unless you really enjoy walking a good distance along a busy Blvd.

Going west from the Beau on Beach Blvd. about 10 min. away by car on the right is Treasure Bay Casino/Resort. Going on west into Gulfport about 15 to 20 min. on Beach Blvd. you will find the nice big Island View Casino/Resort just past the I-49 and Beach Blvd (I-90) intersection.

Then back in Biloxi you probably remember that Boomtown Casino is on the Back Bay with the I.P.(Imperial Palace...much much nicer than the one in Vegas) Casino/Resort and the Palace Casino/Resort about 7 min. to get to by car from the Beau going straight North....those three are about 5 min. apart by car.

There is a casino shuttle that runs to the casinos...all except Island View and maybe Treasure Bay.

We thoroughly enjoy getting away to the Coast occasionally during the year....a nice little respite. You will find the atmosphere there totally different from Vegas, of course....more of a small gulf/port town type of atmosphere except for the big casinos and a few new big tall condos being built or are completed. They are coming along pretty good with the recovery from Katrina...working hard at it. Hope y%26#39;all enjoy yourselves and come back again. =o)

We play some in Vegas and got the offer as well. We leave Sunday morning. I haven%26#39;t been to Vegas since last July so I%26#39;m ready to do a little gambling!

Biloxi Golf Questions

We are coming to biloxi the first part of May for the first time and want the most bang for a little buck on the golf courses. Are there any deals to be found?

Biloxi Golf Questions

I have read on here that the Beau Rivage has a hotel/golf package. Seems like there was another post on this thread about golf. Just type in golf in the search window by the Biloxi forums heading at the top of this.

Biloxi Golf Questions

Thanks for the reply. We are already staying at TB and am just looking for deals on courses

gybuynew: I found this site in a post on golf on this thread.....might have some good info.

http://www.golfcoast.com/

thanks!

Here%26#39;s another site that gives detail info on the courses in %26amp; around Biloxi.....

Course length, course %26amp; slope rating and par. Also has websites listed for each. Hope some of it helps.

http://www.biloxione.com/golf.htm

We visit Gulfport and Biloxi fairly frequently, latest was the month of March. We played the Sea Bee base, Pine Bayou. It was in great condition and very reasonable. No problem getting onto the military course. Great Southern is beautiful but not maintained as well as it used to be. Quite reasonable. There is a muni off Washington Street, Bayou Vista that is inexpensive but kind of flat. They all ran about $25 per round. We were comped a round at The Bridges in Bay St Louis, very challenging but kind of expensive if paying full fare. There are several expensive courses in the area, the Grand Bear , Oaks, Shells Landing etc. but they are out of our price range. Enjoy your stay, I know you will go back again and again!!!

oily skin

Restaurants with Tweens

My husband and I are taking our daughter and her friend to see Taylor Swift next weekend at the Coliseum. We want to take them out to dinner beforehand and would prefer not to take them to a buffet or expensive restaurant. We don%26#39;t mind eating at a casino if the food is good. I know that the Hard Rock has their restaurant but I have done that once and once was enough. We have also eaten at Aunt Jennys and it is very good, but we don%26#39;t want to eat there this time. The girls like Mexican, chicken strips, shrimp. Any suggestions anyone might have would be greatly appreciated!!

Restaurants with Tweens

LookOut 49 on Hwy. 49 in Gulfport

Salute%26#39; on Beach Blvd. in Gulfport

Both of these have seafood and the food is great.....don%26#39;t know of Mexican food places....maybe a local will help you out on here.

Restaurants with Tweens

Thanks, I am going to check their websites out now!!

I am also bringing my 9 year old daughter next weekend to see Taylor Swift. I haven%26#39;t been to Biloxi since a couple of months before Katrina. Are there any good beachside restaurants open? Thanks!

suthrnbell-

I tried to pull up a menu for Lookout 49 and could not find one. Could you tell me some of the things they offer and what the price range would be?

thanks!

g8, try this: http://www.lookout49restaurant.com/

thanks so much, I was able to pull it up!

Up in the main search space on here, type in ';Gulfport, MS, restaurants';.....you will see a list of some good restaurants.

Look Out 49 is my favorite.....it%26#39;s not anything real fancy; but has a fun woodsy beachside atmosphere inside. The food is fantastic. It is on Hwy. 49 just a couple miles past the Hwy. 49 and I-10 intersection. It%26#39;s on the left at a traffic light and next to some type of big box store...can%26#39;t remember if it%26#39;s next to a K-Mart or whatever. It%26#39;s rather simple looking on the outside (white w/ royal blue trim).

The Lookout is actually exactly the kind of place I was hoping that someone would recommend! Casual and not too pricey. I read the reviews and they were all very good! I just printed out the menu to show my husband and daughter. I am they will find something good!! Thanks a million!

Oh forgot.....do you recommend we make reservations? We will probably get there around 5:15 pm next Saturday night.

I also hear that this restaurant is great:

http://www.blowflyinn.com/

I haven%26#39;t really heard of or seen any restaurants right on the beach; but there are several accross from the beach on Beach Blvd. ...such as Salute%26#39;s or Vrazel%26#39;s which is also good just to the west of the intersection of Beach Blvd.(Hwy. 90) and Hwy. 49 in Gulfport.

Clinton or Richland?

Which area is recommended to stay? I have seen two hotels at Clinton %26amp; a Best Western @ Richland that I like the looks of on the website. Any info would be appreciated.

In the past we have stayed @ Vicksburg %26amp; Jackson, but not in these areas.

Thanks

Clinton or Richland?

If I know the purpose of your trip, I could probably answer your question better. :)

Clinton or Richland?

We are driving to Florida %26amp; this is about halfway. We just need a clean, safe area to stay without spending a fortune for 1 night. Last year we stayed @ the Comfort Inn Southwest in Jackson off of I-20. I thought it was OK, we had no complaints. Since reading some of the forum questions, it sounds like that might not be the best area? I am interested in the Econo Lodge or Quality Inn @ Clinton %26amp; the Best Western @ Richland on Hwy.49. We will be on I-20 east %26amp; the 49 south.

Thanks for any info. or recommendations you can give.

Generally speaking, and I do say generally, Clinton is overall a ';nicer'; area than Richland, but I do nto know any personal experiences of these specific properties.

I wish I could help more.

have fun,

Miller

Where would you stay?

My husband and I are coming through Mississippi in June, just a 1 night stay. We are going to stop by the National Park in Vicksburg for a visit, but otherwise, we have no plans for the time there. We are coming from Chattanooga TN and heading home to Dallas TX. I%26#39;ve looked at hotels/b%26amp;bs/casinos in Vicksburg, but nothing looks fab-maybe I%26#39;m wrong or just missing something. I need help. Where would you stay along this stretch of highway???

Thanks to all that reply!

Where would you stay?

Are you traveling from Chattanooga down to Birmingham, then west on I-20? Or, going west through TN, then down I-55?

In the first case, I would stop in Vicksburg. It is about 7 hours from Chattanooga, and about 6 hours from Vicksurg to Dallas. It is not that big, but offers your best opportunities for unique attractions. For a special place to stay, try Cedar Grove Mansion. It has views, pretty grounds, a great dining room, and a LOT of history. It is convenient to Washington Street- history, shops, restaurants, riverfront, etc.

For an clean, new, convenient more economical place, try the Hampton or Comfort Suites. Both those are at the same exit, and convenient to the National Park entrance. The Comfort Suites is VERY new and has an indoor pool.

If you come from Memphis via Jackson, go instead down US 61 and stop in Clarksdale (home of Blues music, etc.) Stay at the Shack Up Inn, or browse

www.visitthedelta.com for more info on this area.

This website also has a lot of info on Vicskburg.

You could stay in Brandon or Clinton (east %26amp; west suburbs of Jackson), but they are uneventful.

Have fun,

Miller

Where would you stay?

sorry,

www.ceargroveinn.com.

Miller

banging head on table...

www.cedargroveinn.com

thankyou very much Miller.

We are planning on stopping in Vicksburg anyway, so staying there now sounds more logical and a little info from you helps tons. I%26#39;ll check out the cedar grove b%26amp;b and the two hotels you mentioned in Vicksburg.

We won%26#39;t be on 55, just 20 heading straight through Mississippi, LA and into TX. This is the end of our week long trip, so just staying somewhere relaxing will be wonderful!

One more thing..

Anchuca is also one of the nicer homes in Vicksburg.

VERY lovely, comfy, etc. but I think a bit more $ and you cannot see the River from there.

Have fun,

Miller

Linden Bed and Breakfast

I am taking my Mother on an early Mother%26#39;s day trip to Natchez and we are staying at the Linden which is supposed to be haunted. Does anyone have any stories or advice?

Linden Bed and Breakfast

Hey Melissa check out this website had a small article on Linden and other Natchez haunted places.

http://www.prairieghosts.com/natchez.html

Linden Bed and Breakfast

Here is one more Melissa little more in this one.

natchezontheriver.com/news/…

sea breeze condos in biliox ms

has anyone stayed in unit 401? would like some comments on the condo?

sea breeze condos in biliox ms

I do know that it is fairly new. Have you looked at this review page on T.A.?

tripadvisor.com/…REVIEWS

sea breeze condos in biliox ms

You can go to www.seabreeze-condos.com for more information. I can answer any questions you have about Seabreeze if you want to send me an email. I live here!

Newbie Questions - Memorial Day

Hi All,

My H and I are considering visiting Biloxi over memorial day. We were planning on going back to NOLA but have found extremely cheap flights out of Pittsburgh to Gulfport.

So, I have some basic Qs... sorry if these are a bit ridiculous:

The idea of casinos + beach (and not Atlantic City) is very appealing to me. I%26#39;ve never been to the Gulf (except Clearwater when I was 9 yrs old). Can you ';hang out on the beach'; here? Nice sand? Spread out a towel and relax?

Are any hotels oceanfront? How many casinos (I am reading 11? - yeah!!) If so, where you do recommend staying - we%26#39;ll be there 3 nights? Good pools? Is the IP as gross as the one in Vegas - it looks pretty good online? Are they in a %26#39;strip%26#39; - can you bop around from place to place? Do we need a car?

And - what is the crowd like? we are in our late 20s and like to have a good time. I am assuming drinks are ';free'; for players?

Thank you so much!!

Newbie Questions - Memorial Day

Balbacm, holy cow! Lots of questions...lol! Now let me see what I can contribute......

Memorial Day: busy time....book early

Casinos and Beach: Yes, you can hang out on the beach which is full of lovely white sand; but water is not the pretty blue/green that you find starting further east just past Mobile. This is due to Biloxi/Gulfport being not too far from mouth of Mississippi River and a small string of off-shore islands to keep the pretty water on the Gulfside of the islands. There is a Ship Island ferry that takes you out to Ship Island which has the pretty blue/green water and a beach on the Gulf side....and an old Civil War fort.

Hotels oceanfront: The Isle of Capri Casino/Hotel (o.k.); Hard Rock Casino/Hotel (newish, nice), Beau Rivage Casino/Hotel (very nice, very nice pool area, elegant atmosphere). I don%26#39;t think Isle of Capri and Hard Rock have a beach; but Beau Rivage is next to a beach area just to the west of it.

IP (Imperial Palace) on Biloxi Back Bay: Nice Casino/Hotel....big...no beach that I know of...has a pool though. It is NOTHING like the Imperial Palace in Vegas...thank goodness!

Casinos together: Only Beau Rivage and Hard Rock are comfortable to walk between....takes only approx. 5 minutes. The rest are short car rides in Biloxi; and a 15 to 20 min. car ride to Island View in Gulfport (lovely casino/hotel).

What is crowd like: Crowds are a good mix of all ages. We usually stay at the Beau Rivage; and the crowds get a little younger late at night (late night clubbing, bridal parties celebrating, etc.). Hard Rock usually attracts the younger crowds also...pretty good mix during day, though.

Drinks: They are free while playing......please, give a tip of $1.00 or $2.00 to the courtesy waitress, of course.

Number of Casinos: You read that correctly....11

As I said before, our favorite place to stay is Beau Rivage....

Newbie Questions - Memorial Day

thank you for your great reply! Ship Island sounds neat. I don%26#39;t have to have crystal blue water - i just like to relax w/a good book. Don%26#39;t worry, I am a good tipper, especially if I am winning!

This is all good info and i will continue to watch this thread.

If you are not renting a car, there is a casino hopper that runs frequently. Don%26#39;t think it goes back into Gulfport though.

As Nane stated, hopper doesn%26#39;t go to Gulfport. Website should give you the info you need.

http://www.biloxibus.com/casino-hopper.html

If you%26#39;re a slots player found IP to be the best casino for slots....good payoffs.

We%26#39;ve always enjoyed Hard Rock in the evening...such a great lively atmosphere.

Have a fab time!

Suthernbell gave you good info on the casinos.

If you want an oceanfront room, stick with the Beau Rivage or the Hard Rock, and the Isle of Capri would be the budget choice.

If you%26#39;re in your 20s, you might prefer the atmosphere of the Hard Rock casino to the Beau (not saying everyone will, but I%26#39;m in my 30s and I feel very young at the BR and prefer the HR).

I agree that the IP in Biloxi (they don%26#39;t want you to call it the Imperial Palace anymore) is better than the one in LV. But it%26#39;s not on the oceanfront, it%26#39;s on the back bay which isn%26#39;t as nice a view imho.

OK...do you want casino%26#39;s or real Gulf Coast beach? By all means take advantage of the cheap flight to Gulfport and visit the casinos...Beau or Hard Rock are first class...I%26#39;m a regular visitor. Keep in mind that this is a very crowded time and a family vacation scene with many kids! Expect to stand in line to check in and eat. The real beach is east of Mobile Bay starting at Gulf Shore and running to Panama City Beach...sugar white sand and green-blue water with wave action. Biloxi/Gulfport beaches are imported sands (their sand is really brown) and no waves. Barier island%26#39;s (Ship Island) sandbars block the surf.

There are (or were) 11 casinos, several are still recovering from Katrina. Whole area is only a skeleton of what is once was. But, it will be hard to tell for an outsider since you have no reference. It is a fun visit and a great time...come on down.

tiller, actually, the casinos are up and running full blast. They are recovered ...... true, a couple of them had to cut back in size of casino after Katrina; but they are in good shape.

I also have a differing opinion about the sands in Biloxi/Gulfport...it is a pretty white sand. True, the water isn%26#39;t as pretty as your area....but the sand is pretty close to the same as yours. ....and, yes, it was brought in. No biggy there.

The sand is definately white and the beach is fun for both relaxing with a book or renting the various water toys (paddle boats, jet skis etc). I would recommend the Hard Rock for you because it is a young crowd. Beau Rivage is very pretty but you will find mostly an older crowd, and I do mean older. If you stay at the Hard Rock, it%26#39;s a 5 minute walk to the beach where you can rent very comfortable beach chairs with thick mats and umbrellas. You can catch the casino hopper right outside the hotel to visit the other casinos. The pool at the Hard Rock is great. It has 2 hot tubs, music playing underwater, and a great bar poolside. The rooms are very special.

oily skin

Days Inn near casinos

Anyone stayed at the Days Inn in the casino resort area of Tunica? I booked there because of low price. Any good or bad reports? Thanks.

Good food, good drinks, good atmosphere suggestions!

Will be making our second trip to Biloxi at the end of May. We are a couple in our early 50s looking for suggestions for good places to eat. Must have a good bartender. Nothing too fancy, nothing too shabby, nothing too crowded. And preferably not in the casinos as we will be spending enough time there. We both like seafood and steaks. We are willing to travel to any of the nearby towns along the coast for lunch and/or dinner. What are your favorites?

Trip Report: 4/26 thru 4/29 at the Grand

All: Just returned from a second trip to Biloxi. We flew from Ft Laud to New Orleans on Southwest Airlines, as Air Tran discontinued direct flights from Ft Laud to Gulfport. Grabbed $116.00 round trip tickets on Southwest%26#39;s website back in January.We hadn%26#39;t flown on Southwest since 2001 and were very happy. In fact, I think Southwest got to New Orleans faster than Air Tran got us to Gulfport.

Naturally the last bags on the carousel were ours, so that cut out any time gain we made on a 3/4 empty flight. Proceeded to the transportation center and got our shuttle to Alamo. We had prepaid for a mid-size SUV for the price of a Cobalt on a nice Hotwire sale back in February. Hopped in our Kia Rondo and headed to Biloxi.

Got off I-10 at Gulfport, more for a bathroom break than the McDonald%26#39;s food that we got. Drove along the I-90/Beach Blvd the rest of the way, got to the Grand at noon, checked in and were in our room tout-de-suite. Room 850, facing the Gulf with a view of the pool and the defunct Margaritaville construction site. Waited for the refrigerator needed for prescription medicine to be delivered, got the girl that was cleaning rooms to give us extra ashtrays and kleenex, and we were off to the casino.

As others on this forum have noted, the casino is on the smaller side , but serves well as a 3 night comped homebase.No big wins to report that afternoon, but you can%26#39;t win on the first day every gambling trip. Penny slots are fickle lol. Ate a quick dinner at the Lobby Bar and hit the room fairly early due to getting up at 2am lol.

Woke up at 1am, couldn%26#39;t get back to sleep so I went back downstairs to play. Took some coffee up to the room at 6am and called the cat-sitter to find out how the cat with the twice a day antibiotic habit was doing. Grabbed the buffet ( $6.99 ) for breakfast and started the tour of the places that we had not gotten to on our first trip.We went to Hard Rock, got our $10 in freeplay, and stayed for an hour or so. Frankly, I was not impressed. Very weird public restroom with co-ed sink area and seperate lavatory rooms. We were supposed to return the following day if we earned 50 points on our initial visit to receive another $10 in freeplay. Got the 50 points, but never went back.

Hit the liquor store behind the Grand for in room libations and went to collect a $20 freeplay offer sent in the mail from Boomtown. Won qite a bit on my initial $20 and went back to the Grand for a buffet lunch ($8.99 ).

We decided to drive to Gulfport as I had seen a billboard on I-10 saying that Island View would double any freeplay coupon from a competitor%26#39;s casino. We had a $110.00 freeplay coupon for the Grand, so as we were new players, they gave us $220.00 in freeplay and somehow the machine let us cash out over a $100 of the freeplay. Played for 90 minutes on their money, and cashed out about half of it and drove back to the Grand. Very windy on I-90, lot of sand on the road. Ordered some food at the Lobby Bar and hit the room quite a bit richer than I had been at the beginning of the day lol. Ate a club sandwich laying on my bed, now that%26#39;s called being on vacation lol.

Managed to sleep til 4am, went down to visit my new favorite barrista at the Grand Cafe, played slots for an hour or so and took some coffee up to the room. After breakfast at the buffet, we hit the Palace. Won about $30 on the new player freeplay and proceeded to the IP. Very impressed; had a preconceived, ill-founded suspiscion that it was going to be like Imperial Palace in Vegas. WRONG lol. It puts the Beau Rivage and the Hard Rock to shame. No free play for new players here, but stayed for a few hours, stopping for lunch at High Tide. Again dinner at the Lobby bar and early to bed as tomorrow is going home day :-(. Printed boarding passes at the self service $5 for 5 minutes internet kiosk before retiring.

Had no intention in getting up early, as I was kind of gambled out by now. Snoring woke me up and fortuitously went downstairs for pre-breakfast gambling. Luckily I decided to play a Glinda the Good Witch Wizard of Oz reel- type machine. Glad I did. Hit a random progressive jackpot for $236.00. Just sitting there minding my own business, had decided I was going to move to a different machine when the meter said $20.00. Played the last 40 cents, didn%26#39;t get anything and was about to hit cash-out when the whole screen went black. Then I heard Glinda%26#39;s voice telling me to pick a barn. Nine gray barns appeared out of the black and I managed to pick the one that said 120+bonus. Then Glinda at 330am said '; Oh Dear ; look up to see what you%26#39;ve won.'; A cyclone then appeared om the top signage and amounts started disappearing until only the $236 was left. I was in shock. Nice way to end the trip, Eh? Random bonus, gotta love it. This got longer than I planned, so will end it there and answer any questions anyone has. Thanks for reading. Mark

Trip Report: 4/26 thru 4/29 at the Grand

Thanks for the report. It was a good read. Flying into New Orleans is not that bad. Even if it%26#39;s 1.5 hr drive, by taking the morning flight, you are sitting in front of a machine before lunch.

Haven%26#39;t been to the Grand in a while. Was getting about $10 freeplay but that has stopped and they haven%26#39;t mail me any offers to make me stop in. The Grand was that bad, small but not crowded.

Trip Report: 4/26 thru 4/29 at the Grand

Enjoyed reading your report. Good win to end your trip. Makes you want to return. IP is our favorite. Always have good room and food comps. We do visit the Grand and others for the freeplay although like you the Beau and Hard Rock are not our favorites although a lot of folks think they%26#39;re the best.

You are looking at the one that thinks Beau is the best. I do like to visit IP and it is a nice big casino; but I don%26#39;t think that it puts Beau to shame by a long shot.....no way....LOL! Just a ';little'; prejudiced here....sorry ;o).

This old world would be a boring place if everyone had the same taste in everything, though.

Forgot to mention, Oakland.....thoroughly enjoyed your TR....love reading other people%26#39;s outlook on things. Thanks taking your time to do a TR.

All; A few postscripts: The drive from New Orleans to Biloxi is a good hour and a half, however the return trip from Biloxi to New Orleans is closer to at least two hours due to construction on the west bound lanes over Lake Ponchatrain.

I don%26#39;t think it is worth the extra time entailed to do that scenario again; hopefully some research or a TA contributor can inform me of an airline that flies direct from Ft Laud to Mobile? The car rental rates in New Orleans are very prohibitively high, thus eating up any savings on the Southwest fares over the Air Tran fares. The girl at the Grand, that checked us out on Wednesday morning, said they are urging Air Tran or another airline to pick up a direct So. Florida-Gulfport route.

I had promised our waitress at the High Tide at IP to give her a special shout-out. Her name was Deborah. She was fast and efficient; two wise traits in a turn-your-tables-quickly type restaurant. ( I used to be a waiter, so I know of what I speak ). Most servers in 24 hr restaurants in Biloxi and especially Las Vegas, seem to not want to turn their tables. We ordered, ate, and paid the check in 45 minutes. Sometimes you wait 45 minutes after being seated for your food to be served in casino cafes.Just a thought lol. People want to get back to gambling, not admire the non-ambience in a 24 hour cafe.

For those of you expecting free printing of boarding passes, that is a thing of the past at the Grand. So is Starbucks; replaced by a JavaCoast type of coffee/sandwich establishment. The new hours at The Grand Cafe are 24/7; Starbucks used to close up at 10 or 11pm and reopen at 600am.

Blown away by the slot selection at Island View; blown away by the sheer size of IP; froze my butt off for three days at the Grand, struggling with a cold; self-park at the Grand on weekdays, we only walked maybe a few hundred feet further than if we had valeted the car.

Thanks to all who responded; until next trip; hopefully soon :-) Mark

Hi Mark,

I have been watching flights into Mobile for years. There are no reasonable price flights. It would be great with only an hour drive.

I agree about the 90 miles from New Orleans to Biloxi but I am used to it.

Surprised you did not get a good car deal from Alamo. I go up about 5 to 6 times a year (from Tampa) and my car will average from $15 to $20 per day for a compact or midsize. Last two trips they had a $10 a day for any car. One trip had a Charger and on my last a Toyota Avalon. I thing I do not do is ';prepay';. I have found that the closer I get to my travel dates, the better chance of getting a lower rate by using and combining ID %26amp; coupon codes.

Enjoyed your TR and the thing which makes the Gulf Coast great is the people, which you appear to have experienced.

PS I meant in my prior post that the Grand is NOT that bad, just small.

Enjoyed your TR! I also love the casino at IP. The slot selection is phenominal. Each casino has something to offer, I think. The Beau for it%26#39;s beauty, Hard Rock for it%26#39;s entertainment (evenings mainly) and IP for the slots.

It%26#39;s too bad they stopped the Margaritaville project. I was really looking for to it opening.

Agree with you totally, Animul....just like in Vegas...every casino/hotel has something different to offer.

I was excited about the Margaritaville also.....maybe if the economy picks up, we will eventually see it.

Wonderful TR. I agree about the co-ed bathroom wash area at the Hard Rock. My first time there, I walked in, saw a man washing his hands and said ';oh S***';, I walked in the men%26#39;s room';. I walked out...looked at the ';ladies'; room sign %26amp; went back in. Strange indeed! It%26#39;s a hoot to look at people%26#39;s expressions when it%26#39;s their first time.

Also Love the Island View %26amp; IP...so many slots to choose from.

Glad you had a great time, congrats on your winnings and looking forward to your next TR.

Free drinks/ shuttle

My husband received an offer for flight and hotel accommodations at the Beau Rivage, so we are planning our first trip to Biloxi casinos the middle of this month. I would like to know if drinks are free. Is the shuttle service good, that is, easy to get from casino to casino and possibly to a few attractions or should we rent a car? We are staying 3 nights. Thanks.

Free drinks/ shuttle

Drinks are free if gambling and we%26#39;ve found if you tip well on the first drink you won%26#39;t have any problems finding a waitress.

We found the shuttle to be very reliable and easily hopped from casino to casino. The shuttle only takes you to the casinos so if you are going to an attraction that is not near one of the casinos you may be better off renting a car.

Free drinks/ shuttle

If you mean getting shuttle from AP in Gulfport to Beau (30 min drive), I believe the casino has a bus to deliever you to hotel/casino. There is a street shuttle bus (called The Hopper) that runs between the 7 local casinos for $1 a ride unless over 65 with Medicare card, than .50 a ride. Runs every 15 minutes during the day until early evening.

As far as other things to see, forget it. Hurricane Katrina has devestated the area with 30 foot tidal surge. Not much has been rebuilt because of insurance and new building codes. It is basically a ghost town that is only a shell of itself. Beautiful seaside colonial homes have been demolished and removed. Casinos are the only life existing all along that coast.

One can not really feel the degree of destruction the area has undergone unless you knew the it before Katrina. Thousands of homes and people are no longer there in Biloxi. Just cleared land.

One quality local restaurant in Biloxi area still functioning ...Mary Mahoney%26#39;s. It is across street from Beau. Pricey, but good. Much history.

Yes, drinks are free, but most usual tip $1. Believe that the Beau comps buffet meals is guests.

As far as renting a car, there is nothing to see unless you want to drive to New Orleans (about 1.5 hr). Whole area will take many years to recover.

Thanks so much for the information. From what reading I did about Biloxi post-Katrina, I gathered there was much destruction and little that got rebuilt besides casinos. Unless we decide to journey to New Orleans, it sounds like the shuttle service may work out OK. When we were in Tunica in August we were very glad we rented a car....those in our travel group that didn%26#39;t felt very isolated and limited in their ability to get around.

Glad to hear drinks are free.....we tip immediately and

then ask the waitress to bring us another drink her next time around....this seems to work to keep the drinks coming steady....

Beau Rivage isn%26#39;t comping our meals upfront like the Gold Strike/Tunica did but we are hoping the comps for meals should come if we put in some playing time????

I have to say....based on the Tunica stay(which was our first gambling trip outside of Michigan and Vegas casinos), comps come much easier than any casinos in MI.

I frequent Biloxi casinos monthly, and the Beau is by far the best right now. They were not destroyed by the 30%26#39; tidal surge since they are mostly on second story. Harrah%26#39;s Grand Casino is currently rebuilding and scheduled to open in 2010. It will be the biggest eventually. Right now it is make shift in its convention center/Hotel. It%26#39;s about a mile down road from Beau.

Beau seems to be quite lenient with comps. Besure to find a hostess and make it a point that you are here with a gambling group and a meal or 2 could bring you back next year. Another ';trick'; is going to the players club to get a card (or even another card!) and talk to the counter attendant about their hurricane Katrina experience. The right one will just open up sharing their experience. Mention to them that you are staying there and inquire about free comp meals. I%26#39;ve had them write me a buffet ticket for my whole group of 4. Flattery and charm are effective.

We also got an offer to Beau Rivage. From May 19-22. Out of Bristol, VA . Where are you flying out of?

%26lt;%26lt;It is basically a ghost town that is only a shell of itself. Beautiful seaside colonial homes have been demolished and removed. Casinos are the only life existing all along that coast.%26gt;%26gt;

=o/ Yes, there is life in Biloxi/Gulfport besides casinos.....lol. There ARE restaurants...there is shopping....there is a ferry that goes to Ship Island.....there are condos being built on Beach Blvd.....there are people living there that make their living at other things besides casinos.....sigh! Check out Ocean Springs also....fun little art shops. =o/

what to do in Jackson

Hi,

We are group of 6 adults intends to visit Mississippi on September 2009.

We want to spend few hours on Jackson, MS. Any suggestion?

Thanks

Oshra

Parking

Hi All, Going to The Grand on Wed. Renting a car and wondering if they have free valet parking or just free regular parking? Anything I must see? welcome all thoughts . Thanks

Parking

Parking is free. Just tip for valet like anywhere else. Parking lot is very close to the casino. Park on the third floor, one minute walk into the casino.

oily skin

Gold Strike Lobster/Steak Buffet

Has anyone been to the Gold Strike Lobster/Steak Buffet on Friday or Saturday evenings. What did you think? What was the price?

Where to stop between Florida and Dallas?

We are planning a big road trip (Los Angeles to Florida, and back). I am hoping for some help on the return portion. We will be driving from Bradenton, Florida to Dallas, Texas. We need to be in Dallas for an evening (to visit Trader Vic%26#39;s). We would like to drive no more then six hours a day. We will have stayed in New Orleans on our way to Flordia.

Could anyone suggest two places to stop for the night along the way? We like picturesque little towns and local food.

Where to stop between Florida and Dallas?

I think that we will stay the second night in Natchez. I would like to find some where that would be fun to stop between Bradenton and Natchez. Maybe I should post this question in the Florida forum...

Where to stop between Florida and Dallas?

You stay stay along the Orange Beach (Gulf Shores area) or Biloxi...both are east of NOLA.

Thank you, TopekaDucky! I will look both up right now.

We%26#39;ve stayed in the area several times in the last 7 or 8 years...great hospitality! This is a helpful website;

www.gulfshores.com

Thank you; that sounds terrific! Where do you like to stay there? The website is very helpful; thank you!

If you are traveling on I20, I would suggest Vicksburg. We love Diamond Jacks (casino/hotel). There is a lot to see in Vicksburg and some really good places to eat. Feel free to look at my contributions for suggestions or send me a PM.

Beau Rivage: Question About Bath Tubs?

Hello All,

My husband and I are planning on booking a room at the Beau Rivage this spring. I do have a question for anyone who knows- How big are the tubs in the rooms at the Beau Rivage? Do the suites have larger tubs? We really would prefer a two person tub, and would book a room just for that if it exists.

Thanks for replying.

Beau Rivage: Question About Bath Tubs?

Can%26#39;t answer your question, but go to www.biloxione.com. A lot of people on that board stay at the Beau.

Beau Rivage: Question About Bath Tubs?

I do know that the ';regular'; rooms have a 1 person tub. It is a nice size tub, though. I%26#39;m not sure about the suites. Hope that this helps.

During my stay the time before last at the Beau, I was fortunate to experience a suite and think I remember seeing a large tub in one of the two bathrooms. We used just the shower in the other bathroom during our stay.

Tunica or Vegas?

I would love your opinions on this!

We%26#39;re wanting a long weekend away (July 22 - 26 to be exact). Our friends love Tunica and want us to go there. We%26#39;ve never been and love checking out new places but...

Vegas airline tickets are cheaper

Hotel stay is cheaper (from what I see)

Car rental is cheaper

It just seems more logical to go to Vegas. Is Tunica worth paying more money to visit? Like I said, we love checking out new places, but we%26#39;ve only been to Vegas 2x and would probably see new parts there.

What do y%26#39;all think? Better yet, which place should we stay? We see a 4-star, Golden Nugget in Vegas for an average of $73/night. Is there anything along the same lines?

Tunica or Vegas?

IMO here is the order of Major casino destinations in the US:

1. Las Vegas

2. Atlantic City

3. Tunica

There is much more to see in do in AC and Las Vegas than in the quiet rural town of Tunica. Tunica casinos are spread apart and only a couple are next to each other within walking distance. Do not get me wrong I like Tunica to gamble and plan on being there again at the end of July, but if I had my choice between Las Vegas (Cheaper for you) and Tunica I would take VEGAS everytime.

SO many hotels in Vegas are offering specials right now. Go to the individual hotel websites and sign up for their email specials. Also check www.travelzoo.com who lists hotel specials for Vegas and you may want to check the airlines for a package deal including hotel and air and car as they have been offering some great deals right now. Golden Nugget is loctaed in the old part of Vegas and is nice, but you should really look at a strip hotel- I really like Monte Carlo. Good luck!!

Tunica or Vegas?

mws...I would add the Biloxi area even before Tunica.

I answered duncemelsmom on the Vegas forum that Vegas and Tunica are NOTHING alike.

I am in no way bashing Tunica, but you cannot compare the two destinations.

Tunica is very laid back, great hospitality and service, close to Memphis, and they do have entertainment BUT the area really isn%26#39;t 24/7 like Vegas, and you can%26#39;t walk from one casino to another and no transportation to do that like in Vegas.

The casinos are in 3 ';pod'; areas, and you have to drive between them to get to each group.

It is just a different atmosphere, and we enjoy our trips there, but it just isn%26#39;t fair to compare Tunica to Vegas.

mws left out Biloxi.

I much prefer Biloxi over Tunica also. But neither of them compares to Vegas. People go to Biloxi and Tunica because they can drive there and stay and eat cheaper than Vegas. But if you can get a cheap flight and hotel in Vegas, then definitely go.

I am going to Tunica this summer and I really like Tunica. I am not knocking Tunica but, given the choice, I would choose Vegas hands down!

I would suggest staying on ';The Strip'; in Vegas. There are great rates out there so, just shop around.

Have Fun!

I have never been to Biloxi, so that is why it is not in my top three ';in my opinion list';.

Traveling the Natchez Trace

My wife and I will probably focus our visit in April on the Natchez-Trace Parkway...from Tupelo to Natchez.

I understand there%26#39;s lots to do, but I%26#39;d love to hear experienced recommendations for sites, hikes and nearby towns...as well as good lodging or restaurants that we shouldn%26#39;t miss.

Also, does it make sense to stay in one central town (Jackson, maybe?) and take day trips out along the parkway and to Vicksburg?

Traveling the Natchez Trace

I%26#39;ll reply to my own question just to say that the Trace is a great place to visit.

My number one recommendation for anyone wanting to learn about it along the way is to buy the book: Guide to the Natchez Trace Parkway by F. Lynne Bachleda. It%26#39;s well organized and is great for planning your trip or just learning about the sites as you drive along. It gave us just the right amount of additional detail about each place we were curious about.

The highlights of our trip (we only traveled from Tupelo to Natchez) were:

-The cyprus swamp...worth spending time here

-Windsor runis...a little way off the road, but a remarkable spot for photos. It%26#39;s like ancient Greece right here in America.

-The restaurant at French Camp

-The Sunken Trace

I wish we could have gotten to Mt. Locust and Emerald Mound near Natchez.

I%26#39;d recommend this beautiful drive to anyone looking for a trip back in time in this part of the country. I can recommend restaurants along the way, too.

Natchez

Hey guy2co I will be down May 1st until May 5th will try and look you up on the carrige tours. ant wait to try the Pig Out Inn

Natchez

I guess I missed you guys this time, but I hope that you enjoyed yourself.

oily skin

Hollywood Cafe-Mississippi

I am wondering how far the Hollywood Cafe is from the casino area of Tunica? I saw it featured on a Foodnetwork TV show and the fried dill pickle slices sounded like something I%26#39;d like to try. Has anyone ever gone there and where is it located? Thanks

Hollywood Cafe-Mississippi

Haven%26#39;t been there, but here%26#39;s the website;

www.thehollywoodcafe.com

Hollywood Cafe-Mississippi

It is nor far. As you go south on the old 61 it will be on the east side if the road before you get to town (as my memory serves.) We didn%26#39;t stop there but I really don%26#39;t want to miss that this year.

Info Please - Tunica RiverPark Nature Trail

I am going to be taking a trip to spend some days at Tunica this summer (Gold Strike) and I hoped that one of the Forum posters out there have hiked this trail. Is it pretty long? Is it best to try to get there first thing in the morning before it gets hot? Is it worthwhile? Any opinions would be appreciated. Thanks.

Info Please - Tunica RiverPark Nature Trail

I did not go on the trail. The museum is certainly worth a visit.

We spent March at Biloxi's Oak Shores condo

We booked March at Oak Shores condos. The unit was very nice and the location was great. The shuttle from Treasure Bay Casino picked us up almost at the door and was usually very prompt. Nice to not worry about driving. The condo complex its self was rather sparsely occupied, mostly snowbirds with a few other short termers. The place was very quiet with occasional exceptions on weekends. The rental company was pretty much out of sight and not much help with maintenance concerns. We will rent again but would not buy there. The construction/renovations was not top quality. Overall, good location, good accommodations.

We spent March at Biloxi's Oak Shores condo

Thanks for the info...will you be posting a review under the rentals section? Would certainly help travelers when looking for places to stay. :)

We spent March at Biloxi's Oak Shores condo

I haven%26#39;t found a rental section . Is it different than the forum?

These particular condos need to be added to Biloxi%26#39;s specialty lodging list which is located on the left hand side under Biloxi Hotels.

tripadvisor.com/Hotels-g43686-c3-Biloxi_Miss…

Go to your contributions page under your profile and you%26#39;ll see a an orange box saying %26#39;write a review%26#39; Click on this and answer the questions to post your review. :)

Or, just look at the top right hand corner of this page and in green it says write a review and click on it there. I may have never noticed that, how dense am I!

Would you mind sharing the website or method you used to book this condo? Thanks.

If you Google ';Oak Shores Condo, Biloxi, MS there are 2 rental agencies that do rentals.

Fitzgerald internet access?

What type of internet access does the Fitgerald offer?

Fitzgerald internet access?

anyone know if the fitz has an outdoor pool? if so, what is it like?

Fitzgerald internet access?

We%26#39;ve stayed there at least 3 times, and I don%26#39;t remember seeing one but not sure since I%26#39;m not a pool person. I am at work right now so can%26#39;t go to their website but am sure it would be listed as an amenity if they have one.

i tried that. it says something about an indoor pool, but no mention of an outdoor one. probably means they don%26#39;t have one i guess.

And the indoor one is probably small.

Good food, good drinks, good atmosphere suggestions

Will be making our second trip to Biloxi at the end of May. We are a couple in our early 50s looking for suggestions for good places to eat. Must have a good bartender. Nothing too fancy, nothing too shabby, nothing too crowded. And preferably not in the casinos as we will be spending enough time there. We both like seafood and steaks. We are willing to travel to any of the nearby towns along the coast for lunch and/or dinner. What are your favorites?

Good food, good drinks, good atmosphere suggestions

There are a lot of threads about restaurants in Biloxi, but I can%26#39;t give you a recommendation for ';good bartender'; and ';not too crowded'; because I%26#39;m not even sure what that means.

I like McElroy%26#39;s in Ocean Springs, just over the Biloxi bridge, and High Cotton Grill in D%26#39;Iberville at the 110 exit, and a lot of people like the Blowfly Inn in Gulfport. But good places tend to be crowded on the weekends.

Good food, good drinks, good atmosphere suggestions

21, like Magnolia says: there are alot of good posts in this Biloxi thread about restaurants. Just type in ';restaurants'; in the search area at the top of this thread by Biloxi.

I recommend LookOut 49 in Gulfport on Hwy. 49....casual, excellent food, casual atmosphere, woodsy interior, good drinks. Just search and you will find others on here with good info.