When it comes to vacation hot spots, there are few that compare to all that the Gulf Coast has to offer. The extremely moderate climate of the area makes it a usually safe place to head to for a family trip and the large amount of things to do make it a top spot for adults and children alike. The Gulf Coast region has been satisfying visitors seeking a good time for decades. A visit to the Gulf Coast region opens a traveler up to seeing attractions and meeting people unlike those found any where else.

Here are five things you must do when visiting the Gulf Coast:

1. J. L. Scott Marine Education Center And Aquarium – One of the highlights to any visit to Mississippi’s Gulf Coast area, the highlight of the J.L. Scott Marine Education and Aquarium is easily the 42,000 gallon Gulf of Mexico tanks which houses sharks, sea turtles, fish, undersea plants, and much more. There are also many other features of the aquarium including a hands-on touch tank, turtle exhibit, and an exhibit dedicated to the alligators and snakes of the area.

2. USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park – For anyone who describes themselves as a history buff, or more specifically a military history buff, a stop at the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park is a must. This World War II era battleship was eventually decommissioned and turned into a floating museum for the public’s enjoyment. It is anchored in Mobile, Alabama and is one of the most popular attractions in the area. There are also more military related exhibits on the land next to the USS Alabama for visitors to enjoy.

3. Houston Space Center – One of the highlights to any visit to the Houston area is a stop at the Houston Space Center. The space center details the history of the United States space program, but it also does much more. With an IMAX theater, interactive exhibits, a guided tram tour of the actual Johnson Space Center, and more, the Houston Space Center is popular with both children and adults alike.

4. Biloxi Mardi Gras Museum – Something any visitor to the area, and anyone interested in Mardi Gras, would be more than interested in seeing is the Biloxi Mardi Gras Museum in Biloxi, Mississippi. The museum is located in the beautiful historic Magnolia Hotel and houses a number of fine exhibits that detail the 300 year history of Gulf Coast residents celebrating Mardi Gras. You are sure to learn something you don’t know about Mardi Gras with a visit to this truly unique museum.

5. When it comes time for the family to have a little more wild and crazy fun, it is time to head to Waterville U.S.A. in Gulf Shores, Alabama. One of the most popular water parks in the area, Waterville U.S.A. sits on twenty acres and is located just one quarter mile away from the beach. Some of the featured attractions at the park include the FlowRider, Wa Wa World, Miniature Golf, the Black Widow, the Jet Stream, Rainbow Falls, and the Waterville 500.

Whether someone is interested in historical sites and museums, cultural attractions like art museums and galleries, or outdoor recreational facilities like natural areas and amusement parks, the Gulf Coast has exactly what is needed to satisfy everyone. With it’s close ties to the southern plantation lifestyle, the Gulf of Mexico, and the resort and coastal pursuits common among oceanside regions, the Gulf Coast area of the United States will continue to be one of the most popular vacation destinations in the entire country. A visit to the Gulf Coast region is a visit that will create memories that will last a lifetime.