Oh, the places you can go with your grandchildren

Summer can mean many things for seniors living in South Mississippi. It can mean long, hot days, spending time on the water, and for many, it’s a time to visit with grandchildren.

But where do you take your grandchildren to have a family-friendly time on the Coast?

There are many options available for family day trips, even for families on a budget.

Jones Park

Jones Park in Gulfport is known as “Mississippi’s front yard” for a reason. The park encompasses 60 acres of waterfront property, including Barksdale Pavilion, and more than 300 marina slips.

It is the home to the Jones Park Splash Pad, a tropical-themed feature that features flowing water along with water mists and sprays.

It is open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.

Admission to Jones Park and the Splash Pad is free.

For more information, call 228-868-5881.

Lynn Meadows Discovery Center

Lynn Meadows Discovery Center is an award-winning children’s museum in Gulfport at 246 Dolan Ave. right off U.S. 90.

It has rotating exhibits and activities throughout the year for children of all ages, as well as 6 acres of outdoor play area.

It is open Mondays-Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays noon to 5 p.m.

Admission is $9 for children and $7 for seniors 65 and over.

Admission on Sundays is $5 for everyone.

For more information, call 228-897-6039.

Buccaneer State Park

Buccaneer State Park is at 1150 South Beach Blvd. in Waveland.

With the scenic Mississippi Sound on its horizon, Buccaneer State Park offers amenities such as camping and nature trails for hiking.

It also has a water slide and wave pool for children of all ages.

The water park has a variety of fees that are not any more than $13. Camping starts at $24 per night.

For more information, call 228-467-3822.

Fort Maurepas Park

Fort Maurepas Park is at 499 Beach Front Drive in Ocean Springs and has a bronze statue of explorer Pierre Le Moyne, sieur d’Iberville.

A splash pad is available for the children along with a pirate ship-themed playground.

It is open daily and admission is free.

For more information, call 228-875-4236.

This story was originally published July 5, 2016 at 5:16 PM with the headline "Oh, the places you can go with your grandchildren."