Cruisin’ the Coast with Kids: A Gulf Coast Mom’s Guide to a Fun, Stress-Free Family Adventure
What Is Cruisin’ the Coast?
Every October, Mississippi’s Gulf Coast transforms into one long, 30-mile party known as Cruisin’ the Coast—a week-long celebration of classic cars, live music, food, and family fun that stretches from Bay St. Louis to Ocean Springs.
And while it’s best known as “America’s Largest Block Party” for car lovers, it’s also one of the most family-friendly events on the Coast—if you know how to plan for it. Whether you’re a local mom or visiting from out of town, here’s your complete guide to enjoying Cruisin’ the Coast with kids of all ages—without the stress.
Cruisin’ the Coast isn’t just for car enthusiasts—it’s a whole-family adventure! From classic cars to live music, the Gulf Coast comes alive every October, and there’s no reason your kids can’t enjoy the ride too. As a Gulf Coast mom, I’ve rounded up tips and kid-friendly events so you can enjoy the Cruisin’ festivities without the stress. Check out the official website here.
Kid-Friendly Things to Do at Cruisin’ the Coast
1. Family-Friendly Car Shows
Each coastal town—Biloxi, Gulfport, Ocean Springs, Bay St. Louis, and more—hosts official car shows, and most are stroller and wagon-friendly.
Mom Tip: Go early in the day (before 10 AM) or later in the afternoon when crowds thin out. Kids love spotting bright paint jobs, shiny chrome, and fun themes.
Some car owners even let kids sit inside their cars for a quick photo—just ask politely first!
2. Cruisin’ Kids Zones
Several cities—including Gulfport and Ocean Springs—set up Kids Zones during Cruisin’ week. These areas feature bounce houses, arts and crafts, face painting, and games.
Why it matters: These are perfect for little ones who need a break from walking or noise. Check the Cruisin’ map to locate kid zones near your planned stops.
3. Car Parades and Drive-By Cruises
Even if you skip the official show lots, you can catch the action along the main Coast roads.
Parade Watching Tips for Families:
Arrive early to snag a good viewing spot.
Bring foldable chairs, snacks, and a picnic blanket.
Use ear protection for babies and toddlers (those engines roar!).
Glow sticks and bubbles make great parade distractions for little ones.
Make it interactive: play “I Spy” with your kids—find a red convertible, a car with flames, or one older than Grandma!
4. Local Markets, Music, and Food
Cruisin’ overlaps with other Gulf Coast events like farmers’ markets and live music festivals.
Bay St. Louis and Ocean Springs are known for walkable downtowns filled with boutiques, art vendors, and food trucks—perfect for family browsing.
Mom Tip:
Choose shaded, walkable areas like Ocean Springs’ Government Street or Gulfport’s Centennial Plaza.
Grab kid-friendly snacks like snow cones, lemonade, or mini corn dogs to keep everyone happy.
Mom-to-Mom Tips for a Smooth Cruisin’ Experience
1. Plan, But Keep It Flexible
There’s so much to see that it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Pick one or two focus areas per day and let the rest be bonus stops.
If you’ve got younger kids, aim for a morning outing (cooler temps, smaller crowds), lunch at a local café, then a beach or splash pad break before heading home or to your hotel.
2. Pack Like a Pro
Here’s your Cruisin’ Mom Checklist for the day:
✅ Snacks & Water: Bring more than you think you’ll need.
✅ Wipes & Sanitizer: Food trucks + car grease = sticky hands.
✅ Sun Gear: Hats, sunscreen, portable fans.
✅ Blanket or Chairs: For parades and rest breaks.
✅ Ear Protection: Especially for little ones.
✅ Extra Outfit: Between ice cream and dust, you’ll be glad you packed one.
3. Build in Cool-Down Breaks
When the crowds get intense, pop into a local café, library, or ice cream shop to recharge.
Many coastal towns have splash pads and playgrounds—like Jones Park in Gulfport or War Memorial Park in Pass Christian—that make great mid-day breaks.
4. Make It Educational
Older kids love learning how engines work or why certain designs are “classics.” Turn it into a scavenger hunt:
Find a car from the year Mom was born.
Spot a convertible, truck, or hot rod.
Ask which decade they think had the “coolest” cars.
5. Consider an Overnight Stay
If you’re coming from out of town (or even just an hour away), make it a mini vacation!
Book early—hotels fill up fast—but staying overnight lets you enjoy evening cruises, neon lights, and live music without fighting traffic to get home.
Evening Family Fun
After dark, Cruisin’ takes on a whole new vibe—classic cars glow under neon lights, local bands play oldies, and downtown streets come alive.
Even if your kids aren’t car-crazy, they’ll love the sights and sounds. Grab a late-night treat, stroll the sidewalks, and let the cool breeze wrap up your day on the Coast.
Final Thoughts
Cruisin’ the Coast is more than a car show—it’s a Gulf Coast tradition that brings generations together. With a little planning and a few smart mom strategies, it can be one of your family’s favorite fall memories.
So pack the wagon, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to make some unforgettable memories along the Mississippi Gulf Coast!
