Uptown Acorn Travels {Ocean Springs/BSL}

 This weekend, J and I set out for yet another one-tank trip. This time we headed out east to Ocean Springs, MS on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. A trip out east is never complete without a lunch from Half Shell Oyster House located in Gulfport, MS. You must try the voodoo shrimp- scrumptious fried Gulf shrimp with a homemade sweet and spicy Voodoo sauce served on Gambino’s French bread. It is my very favorite dish on the menu.

Satiated, we then headed to Ocean Springs, MS.

A quaint, cottage Main Street community nestled amongst centuries-old live oaks on the scenic shore of Coastal Mississippi, Ocean Springs boasts a rich history, artistic flair, lush landscape and small town appeal. Colorful and sophisticated, the community is known for its arts and festivals.

A trip to Ocean Springs is made even more complete by a visit to our favorite Hillyer House.

Hillyer House is a nationally recognized award-winning gallery featured in Southern Living magazine. Established in 1970 by the Hillyer-Reed family, Paige Riley collects brilliant works of art from over 300 local and national artists.

Works of art by our favorite coastal artists, Jean McKee are featured at Hillyer House.

And no stop on the Gulf Coast is ever complete without a peek at the offerings at Gulf Coast Home located on Ulman Street in Bay St. Louis. One of the owners, Wendy was in shop and is one of the friendliest shop owners in the business. The shop is well-appointed with a great selections of home decor and accessories for the modern home. Yes! J and I purchased something, which I'll share with you this week. Hint! Hint! I adore Palm Orleans.

I have been loving these short weekend jaunts. There are so many fun places located just a short drive away.

Gulf Coast, y'all!

The Weekend That Was {March 18-19}

Since I was involved with Science Olympiad last week (our team placed 1st for the 3rd consecutive year), J & I did not get to travel for my birthday weekend. But we certainly made up for it this weekend.

We ventured to the Mississippi Gulf Coast for some fun and retail therapy. The weather this weekend was absolutely Chamber of Commerce perfection.

First stop: Bay St. Louis

We dined at The Blind Tiger. With a view of the Bay, this spot is always a great destination for fresh seafood and scrumptious burgers.

I suggest a lil retail therapy at Bay Life Gifts. The quaint shop is filled to the brim with coastal-inspired accessories and original artwork by Tehle. 

Second stop: Ocean Springs

Here, we rushed to my favorite destination, Hillyer House. J & I scored yet another original art piece by Jean McKee (more on our purchase later).

Poppy's next to Hillyer House is another fun shop filled with exciting goods. Poppy's is a wonderful shop filled with gifts, local art, and gourmet food items

We stopped and had a couple libations at The Office. It was a beautiful day to people watch, one of my favorite pastimes.

Third stop: The White House

This is our third time staying at The White House in Biloxi. We adore the hotel. The White House Hotel is a historical boutique hotel with a beachfront location. J & I ventured to the bar for happy hour, ate a few appetizers, and several martinis later we crashed. The rooms are well-appointed and comfortable.

Fourth stop: Premium Outlets, Gulfport

A trip to the Gulf Coast is never complete without stopping at J. Crew, LaCoste, Polo, and Banana Republic. A lil retail therapy is always a welcome treat.

It was a great weekend of fun and relaxation. If only the weekends could last longer.

                           March 18-19, y'all!