Bay St. Louis, located along the Gulf Coast of Mississippi is one of those towns where everything seems to slow down Fishermen often scatter the horizon and golfers spend their afternoons on the fairway families cool off at splash pads and waterparks while visitors take to the bay on guided cruises For those looking to experience the Gulf Coast with fewer crowds Louis offers a quieter and more personal take on coastal life Louis has a variety of municipal parks scattered throughout the city In addition to being a favorite spot for birthday parties and other special events Louis City Park is another one of the most frequent neighborhood parks in town with many children and adults gathering in the park in the evenings and weekends Some of the amenities that visitors will find in this park include tennis and pickleball courts travelers can reach one of the town’s most spectacular state parks: Buccaneer State Park Buccaneer State Park also has an 18-hole disc golf course with beautiful views of the Mississippi Gulf Coast the course is suitable for both new disc golfers and those with more experience For those looking to further immerse themselves in the park's natural surroundings a 1.8-mile nature trail winds through the area Although many of the original trees were lost to Hurricane Katrina Tour options include a morning cruise with bring-your-own mimosas and Bloody Marys All cruises welcome guests to bring their own drinks aboard The boat departs from the centrally located municipal marina making it easy for visitors to enjoy breakfast before the trip or grab dinner afterward at one of the nearby restaurants Those wanting to explore the area in a more secluded fashion should add the Bayou La Croix Preserve to their itinerary Travelers will find various natural features throughout the area and vegetation such as floating leafed aquatic plants Travelers wishing to boat in the preserve can start at the Bayou Lacroix Boat Launch which is located beneath the Hwy 603 bridge Those hoping to fish may be able to do so on a seasonal basis in the reserve as well The biodiversity of the bay and gulf is sure to catch the attention of both anglers and birdwatchers Those craving a fishing excursion can book a trip with one of the town’s fishing charters Shore Thing Fishing Charters is a highly rated option whether they are new to fishing or experienced anglers The majority of the species that guests will be able to fish include redfish your guide will clean your catch at no extra charge two nearby restaurants will even cook your fish for you and passengers are welcome to bring their own beer and wine if they wish consider exploring some of the quieter stretches of the Gulf Coast and sprawling state parks are just the beginning Whether you prefer a guided experience or want to explore on your own there are plenty of ways to enjoy the area’s natural beauty Louis makes it easy to reconnect with the outdoors photos and original descriptions © 2025 worldatlas.com Share on FacebookShare on X (formerly Twitter)Share on PinterestShare on LinkedInBAY ST Louis Interim Police Chief Alvin Kingston announced they’re investigating a shooting that left one man dead officers were called to a home in the 900 block of Bookter Street for reports of a shooting they found a male suffering from a gunshot wound Emergency medical services were immediately provided and he was taken to a local hospital for treatment it was determined the victim and the suspect knew each other who was the ex-boyfriend of a female who lived there came to the home against a protection order with a weapon Investigators determined it to be a domestic violence protection order which led to another family member at the house shooting the ex-boyfriend Officials say the investigation is ongoing and no arrests have been made at this time Anyone with information regarding the incident should call the Criminal Investigations Division at 228-467-9222 or the Hancock County Dispatch Center at 228-255-9191 You can also contact Mississippi Coast Crime Stoppers at 1-877-787-5898 See a spelling or grammar error in this story? Report it to our team HERE Louis will ring in Christmas Spirit on Saturday The annual ‘Christmas in the Bay’ parade will roll through downtown at 5:30 p.m It begins on Demontluzin Avenue and ends at the Historic Train Depot Families can expect a dose of holiday fun with train rides Mayor Mike Favre said holiday spirit has been on the rise in the Bay “It’s a special event and steadily growing There will be thousands of people out here come Saturday night there will be a showing of the ‘Polar Express.’ See a spelling or grammar error in this story? Report it to our team HERE Louis couple who just finished a renovation of their historic home lost it to a fire early Wednesday morning The pink house with gingerbread trim was on the corner of Ulman Avenue and North 2nd Street It was built in the late 1800s and a plate over the front door of the house said it was named ‘Sophia.’ The home is owned by Jerry and Sandi Favre Jerry Favre was at home with the couple’s two Labradors He and the dogs got out safely and he called 911 at 6:07 a.m The cause of the fire has not yet been determined Louis was completely destroyed by fire on Wednesday morning A Carriere man has been charged with murder in the shooting death of a Bay St Bay Police Chief Alvin Kingston said Brendon Potts has been charged and is in the Hancock County jail along with Waveland and Hancock County were called to the 400 block of St Upon arrival officers located a male suffering from a gunshot He was identified as Lionell Bradley of Bay St and Bradley was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment Bradley was later pronounced dead at the hospital The investigation revealed all individuals involved knew each other but was located walking a few blocks away by officers and taken into custody Louis Police Department requests that anyone with information regarding this incident contact the Criminal Investigations Division at (228) 466-5484 or the Hancock County Dispatch Center at (228) 255-9191 In a world that seems to move faster every day, the appeal of a slower, more peaceful lifestyle continues to grow. Not everyone enjoys the noise of busy streets or the rush of packed schedules. Some places offer something entirely different—a quieter rhythm, slower mornings, and a deeper sense of ease. Mississippi is home to towns just like that where life is grounded in simple pleasures that lend to strong community ties these towns reflect a way of life where time feels less hurried they provide a welcome contrast to the hustle of modern life For anyone longing to breathe a little deeper and live a little slower these nine Mississippi towns offer just the right setting Water Valley is the kind of place where life's pace naturally slows and small-town charm is a part of everyday life this quiet town has become a haven for those who appreciate art Its picturesque Main Street has numerous historic buildings that now house a blend of antique shops It won't take long to discover that the creative spirit runs deep in Water Valley for regional artists who've found inspiration in its laid-back setting History lovers will enjoy the Casey Jones Railroad Museum with its fascinating displays that chronicle the story of the legendary train engineer shaded sidewalks and quiet streets make daily walks feel like a pleasant ritual Water Valley offers more than just a rural small town; it provides a slower more intentional way of living that’s easy to fall in love with There’s a refreshing authenticity here—no big crowds or commercial buzz just art and creativity rooted in community This historic town is known for its laid-back atmosphere The downtown area reflects the slower pace of life with its classic architecture and shops where conversations linger and faces are familiar If you need a delightful place for breakfast or lunch a popular local eatery known for its delicious food and excellent service Nature plays a role in Iuka’s relaxed lifestyle offering panoramic views of Pickwick Lake and the Tennessee River It’s a favorite spot for slow afternoons filled with fishing The Natchez Trace Parkway also cuts nearby inviting scenic drives and unhurried exploration Iuka’s Mineral Springs Park adds another layer of calm to the town it’s a favorite gathering spot for residents who enjoy outdoor strolls or relaxed community events Even the town’s pace of commerce matches its tranquil personality—no big box stores or high-traffic roads just locally owned businesses and plenty of friendly greetings Mound Bayou is not just a town—it’s a testament to resilience, self-reliance, and enduring pride. This small Mississippi Delta community has a rich history as formerly enslaved families founded the town in 1887 the enduring legacy continues to shape its peaceful and reflective atmosphere lined with modest homes and historic landmarks Local events and commemorations highlight the town's role in African American history creating space for both celebration and reflection a calm confidence that comes from knowing where one comes from and choosing to move forward with grace Crawdad's is a local restaurant that has great steaks in a unique lodge-style setting expect life to move at a gentle pace in Mound Bayou Residents gather at local spots to talk and share news kids play in the yards with no rush to be anywhere and the town as a whole seems to breathe with a relaxed rhythm It’s a place where heritage and peace coexist Mound Bayou isn’t just quiet—it’s quietly powerful It offers a slower lifestyle wrapped in deep cultural significance making it one of Mississippi’s most unique and soul-stirring towns Pontotoc sits quietly among the rolling hills of North Mississippi Its name comes from the Chickasaw word meaning "land of hanging grapes," a nod to its rich Native American history and the fertile landscape that surrounds it The town’s historic courthouse square is the heart of local life and cafes where conversation is pleasant and the pace never feels rushed There’s a simplicity here that feels intentional Montgomery's on Main is an excellent restaurant that serves only high-quality food with the freshest ingredients Pontotoc is also home to a portion of the Tanglefoot Trail a 43-mile rails-to-trails path that winds gently through woodlands or simply taking a breather along the trail soaking in the slow beauty of rural Mississippi Festivals like the annual Bodock Festival celebrate community with music It’s not about keeping up—it’s about staying grounded It simply invites people to stay a little longer and appreciate what’s right in front of them set in the gently rolling hills of Winston County offers a quiet kind of charm that’s hard to find these days the town carries a sense of steadiness and pride the historic district surrounds a beautiful courthouse and features small shops where folks still greet each other by name Cafes like Mary Lou's Breakfast Bar serve breakfast without the rush where you can sip your coffee and stay as long as you'd like The atmosphere is unpretentious and comforting offering a sense of place that many towns have lost Just beyond the center of town lies Legion State Park which offers a peaceful escape into the woods and the lake's stillness provide a natural retreat where time seems to slow down It’s the kind of spot where families come to picnic or sit quietly among the pines and listen to the breeze Louisville also holds onto the little things that make life meaningful: Friday night football and that makes it pretty close to heaven on earth Louis has a way of slowing things down the moment you arrive This coastal town pairs a breezy seaside charm with Southern hospitality creating a place where time seems to linger just a bit longer It’s the kind of town where you can wander without a plan—along the beach (Our favorite is 200 North Beach Restaurant and Bar for some of the best seafood on the Coast.) and sandy stretches that are perfect for morning walks or watching the sunset Louis has seen a resurgence since Hurricane Katrina and the city fathers have been careful to rebuild it It’s a place where people gather for Second Saturday art walks or to listen to live music drifting from a local venue the town never feels hectic—just warm and welcoming nestled in the deep southwest corner of Mississippi is the kind of town where the air feels quieter and time seems to stretch out just a bit longer Woodville has a rich Southern character deeply rooted in its history The downtown square with its historic buildings is a place where life moves at a thoughtful and local shops and cafes invite visitors to linger rather than rush History lovers will want to tour the Rosemont Plantation and its perfectly manicured grounds and gardens will make you wish you could stay for more than just a day offers scenic waterfalls and peaceful hiking trails through a dense forest making it one of the region’s true hidden gems The natural beauty around Woodville lends itself to unhurried weekends or afternoons spent listening to birdsong on a porch swing Set against the backdrop of North Mississippi’s wooded hills and old cotton fields Holly Springs boasts a graceful Southern charm that is as relaxed as it is historic Known for its antebellum homes and tree-lined streets the town has a quiet rhythm that reflects both its deep roots and its leisurely pace The historic courthouse square anchors the downtown district where redbrick sidewalks lead past quaint shops and buildings that have stood for generations and conversations often linger a little longer than expected Places like the Kate Freeman Clark Art Gallery and the Marshall County Historical Museum offer quiet reflective experiences that tie into the town’s creative and cultural heritage Nearby Wall Doxey State Park offers scenic walking trails lined with wildflowers in spring and autumn leaves later on gives nature lovers a serene escape for hiking or simply soaking in the sounds of birdsong and wind through the trees This community is the kind of place where the days stretch gently and the pull of the outside world feels far away Nestled in the rolling hills of North Mississippi New Albany offers a blend of small-town charm Known as “The Fair and Friendly City,” New Albany is the birthplace of Nobel-Prize-winning author William Faulkner and the Union County Heritage Museum has fascinating displays in his honor The heart of New Albany is its historic downtown a beloved institution known for its Southern-style cakes and pies made from family recipes passed down through the years From their famous caramel layer cake to the rich chocolate meringue pie Sugaree’s treats have garnered national attention Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the Tanglefoot Trail Mississippi’s longest Rails-to-Trails conversion This 43.6-mile scenic trail winds through the Appalachian foothills Whether you're indulging in a slice of cake at Sugaree's or immersing yourself in the town's history New Albany invites you to experience the warmth and hospitality that define this charming Mississippi community the quiet isn’t empty—it’s full of meaning Each place offers a return to a way of life that values connection these communities remind us that slower doesn’t mean lesser For those ready to step back from the noise and lean into a simpler rhythm these towns open the door to a gentler pace and a more grounded way of life Louis temporarily closed as staff worked to correct a system outage Hollywood Casino Gulf Coast posted to Facebook that the closure was due to “an unforeseen system issue.” The closure impacted the casino floor and several restaurants all restaurant operations are to resume as normal on Friday Share on FacebookShare on X (formerly Twitter)Share on PinterestShare on LinkedInHANCOCK CO. (WLOX) - Two people were arrested following a shooting at a bar in Bay St according to the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office deputies were called to Harold & Lillian’s Bar in response to a shooting deputies found a female victim who was suffering from a single gunshot wound She was taken to a Louisiana hospital to be treated deputies determined Deon Morgan and Katrina Nordin got into a fight at the bar Morgan and Nordin were arrested for disorderly conduct- interfering with business customers and invitees Both are being held at the Hancock County Adult Detention Center pending an initial appearance Officials say the investigation into the shooting is ongoing Louis Police Department identified Renelder Charles as the victim of a deadly shooting on Saturday evening Charles arrived at the home of his ex-girlfriend located in the 900 block of Bookter Street He did so armed and in violation of a protection order filed against him A third person was visiting the home at the time of the fight Officials noted this person has children with Charles' ex-girlfriend Police were called to the home around 9:30 p.m and Charles was taken via ambulance to a nearby hospital where he later died from his injuries RELATED: Argument leads to deadly shooting in Bay St. Louis, police say No arrests have been made at this time and the investigation is currently ongoing Louis Police Department asks that those with information contact Criminal Investigations at 228-467-9222 or Hancock County Dispatch Center at 228-255-9191 Steve Barney is in studio to talk about the upcoming Souper Mudfest The event is part of the second Saturday Art Walk The event includes live music as well as demonstrations by potters Visitors can purchase bowls as donations and sample soups from local merchants The Krewe of Pawseidon takes to the streets of Bay St Louis this weekend and Co-Founder Jeanelle Sonnier and 2025 Grand Marshal David Blackwell are in studio with more For more information, click here. WXXV News 25’s Jordyn Lassiter has been at the Bay St Louis Police Station awaiting further details and updates on this investigation Officers responded to reports of a shooting and found a man suffering from a gunshot wound Despite life-saving efforts at a local hospital The protection order filed by the victim’s ex-girlfriend was related to domestic violence (WLOX) - Two teenagers were hit by a Bay St Louis Police car while it was patrolling early Wednesday morning Louis officer was conducting a routine patrol area check of the Washington Street Pier parking lot when the accident occurred the officer was making a left turn in the unlit area and wasn’t able to see two individuals who were lying on the asphalt The 18-year-old male and 16-year-old female were reportedly watching the sky and stars when they were hit Officers reported that the two teens drove to the area with other individuals who were still in a vehicle at the time of the accident The female was taken by ambulance to Gulfport Memorial Hospital for treatment of injuries to her hips and legs The 18-year-old was taken by private vehicle to get checked for minor injuries Both individuals have been treated and released Waveland Police Department and Hancock County Sheriff’s Office also responded to the scene The official report and investigation were assigned to the Waveland Police Department Louis woman has been charged with stealing from several Waveland stores by using a fraudulent credit card Waveland Police said 37-year-old Cristal Seals was arrested Thursday The charges stem from incidents in October and November when Seals allegedly used a credit card online to obtain money Police say she also allegedly stole from several stores in the area She was taken to the Hancock County jail and will have an initial appearance on March 13 From a pet boutique to restaurants to gyms and more Louis has had a rebirth in recent years as the Gulf Coast prepares for Amtrak passenger service again Full story: A rebirth, then Amtrak: Bay St. Louis hub blocks from downtown is 'almost like Freret Street' A customer walks into Uncle Joe's pizza and wings in the Depot District in Bay St The Depot District is blossoming with new businesses in downtown Bay St A bartender makes a bloody Mary drink at the Depot District Deli in Bay St A customer eats lunch at The Blind Tiger's Depot District Deli in Bay St Cafe Bonejour is a boutique pet shop in the Depot District in Bay St a pet boutique in the Depot District in Bay St Email notifications are only sent once a day Standing near shelves stacked with homemade dog treats shaped like donuts and cookies News Tips:nolanewstips@theadvocate.com Other questions:subscriberservices@theadvocate.com Your browser is out of date and potentially vulnerable to security risks.We recommend switching to one of the following browsers: Chief Cake Officer Mike Graves is in studio with us today He is here to tell us about the King Cake Drive Thru event The King Cake Drive-Thru will take place Wednesday January 15th at the Driftwood Hotel in Bay St King cakes to be available from favorites such as Antoine’s To see the weekly rotating menu and pop up schedule follow King Cake Drive-Thru via @kingcakedrivethru (Instagram) An oyster will be set up above 200 North Beach Restaurant coming down when the clock strikes midnight Entertainment starts at 7 PM with Chee-Weez performing South Beach Boulevard will be closed from Demontluzin Avenue to Main Street starting at 6 AM