Not Gulfport, Mississippi, but Gulfport, Florida! This Gulfport is a separate village contiguous with St. Petersburg. It’s right on the bay and home to the Casino, an old, 30s/40s style dance hall with polished wood dancing floor, large bars, and jalousie windows overlooking the water. It’s constantly booked with wedding receptions, bingo nights, t-dances, and other quite varied events. Its eclecticism is merely a reflection of the character of Gulfport, itself.
“Quaint” is the only description, but this is no commercially manufactured tourist trap. The citizens of Gulfport want each home different with character, want their business district free of “civilizing” restrictions, want the jumble and riot of colors and sounds and activities. If it weren’t for the fact that Gulfport is occasionally, completely covered by water from hurricanes, I would have chosen to live there instead of downtown St. Pete. (There is a sign showing where the water comes to on the inland side of town!)
Gulfport isn’t just shopping, bars, dances, and good food. There’s also an excellent legit theater: the Gulfport Community Players have a lively season, fully attended, at the Hickman Theater. In fact, St. Pete itself, has some remarkable theater, especially American Stage, an actor’s equity theater. How many small cities have live theater such as this–not many. Of course, the close proximity of good late night eating places works together with the theater scene for delightful evenings on balmy nights.
Gulfport has, as does downtown St. Pete, days set aside for monthly festivals. For events to try, go to the city’s website and the Chamber of Commerce. Check out the Artwalk there, for instance. The marina has an excellent webcam here as part of the city’s website.
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