The 8 Best Retirement Activities in Mississippi!
There are an endless number of reasons why Mississippi is the perfect place for anyone looking to relocate for retirement. For starters, our average yearly high temperature is 75 degrees, thanks in large part to our mild winters. Housing prices are affordable and property taxes are low. Miles of white sandy beaches, world-class golf and dining opportunities, and a rich cultural history round out the reasons Mississippi is perfect for retirement. If you're still not convinced, check out our list of top 8 activities for retirees in Mississippi!
The Preserve Golf Club, Vancleave, MS
There's a reason golf is associated with retirement—it's a game of leisure and focus, an opportunity to spend time outdoors while honing a skill. Mississippi is home to a number of beautiful golf courses. We've chosen The Preserve, designed by Jerry Pate. The course is built into the natural landscape of the area, creating a beautifully secluded experience within an 1,800-acre nature preserve. This is one golf course you can't miss!
USM Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, Biloxi and Hattiesburg, MS
The best way to keep the mind sharp is to keep learning new things, and with USM's Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI), this has never been easier. Their motto is "Learning is for Life!" and they happily welcome new participants from any walk of life. Classes are offered at both their Hattiesburg and Gulf Park campuses, and there are a number of social events for members as well.
Walter Anderson Museum of Art, Ocean Springs, MS
Celebrate your newfound free time by surrounding yourself with some of Mississippi's rich artistic heritage. There are a number of museums all around the state celebrating our famed artists, authors, and musicians. The Walter Anderson Museum of Art in Ocean Springs is a unique experience preserving the works of the Anderson brothers, and WAMA offers discounted tickets for seniors.
Mississippi Senior Olympics, Biloxi, MS
The Mississippi Senior Olympics are an annual event open to anyone age 50 and older. This multi-sport competition has been bringing together athletes from all around our state since 1984. Events include cycling, golf, basketball, swimming, tennis, track and field, volleyball, darts, bowling, and much more. MSO is associated with the National Senior Games, and participants have the opportunity to qualify for nationals every other year.
Oxford Newcomers Club, Oxford, MS
The beautiful city of Oxford has a unique way of welcoming new retirees into the community—the Oxford Newcomers Club and Friends has been creating a rich social scene since 1999. Within the club are various interest groups which typically meet once a month, and there are also monthly social gatherings. Activities include books clubs, dining at some of Oxford's best restaurants, athletics, and lifelong learning opportunities.
AmeriCorps VISTA America Reads Mississippi, Multiple locations
If retirement has you missing the feeling of being needed, consider donating some of your time to a worthy cause. AmeriCorps offers a number of volunteer opportunities throughout the state through their VISTA (Volunteers in Service to America) programs. The America Reads Mississippi (ARM) program teaches reading skills to at-risk children in grades K-3, and is a great way to help retirees (or anyone!) feel reconnected to the community.
Travel the Natchez Trace
Retirement is the perfect time to explore the beauty of Mississippi's natural landscape. The Natchez Trace Parkway is built on an old forest trail thought to be as many as 10,000 years-old, originally used by bison, then Native Americans. This lovely scenic drive begins in Natchez and winds northwest through the state to Tupelo, eventually ending in Nashville.
Captain Ron's Charters, Biloxi and Gulfport, MS
Spend your retirement sailing the high seas (or at least the Gulf of Mexico) with one of the Coast's fine charter boats. Captain Ron's Charters is made up of three boats, and they've been chartering trips for the past 25 years. Visit the islands, relax in the sun, and catch a few fish while you're at it. You're sure to have a great time on the water!
