The Walter Anderson Museum of Art in Ocean Springs, Mississippi, is a must-visit for anyone who enjoys art, nature, and the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
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Walter Anderson Museum of Art
I honestly wasn't sure what to expect during my first visit to the Walter Anderson Museum. I had read that the museum featured Walter Anderson's Mississippi Gulf Coast art, focusing on the area's natural beauty.
Little did I know walking into the museum that I was going to have one of the most amazing travel moments I have experienced anywhere in the world.
When I walked into the Ocean Springs Community Center exhibit I met John, one of the docents for the museum.
As I walked in, John was sitting in his walker with the biggest smile. He asked if I wanted to learn more about Walter Anderson and his art. Of course, I said yes, and this led to one of the best hours I have spent in an art museum.
John shared his love for Walter Anderson's art along with Leon, another docent for the museum. These gentlemen brought the murals to life.
I stood in the community center in awe of not only the gift I received from spending time with John and Leon but also the beautiful artwork that adorned the community center walls.
It is hard to put into words the scope of the murals and how they draw you in. I highly suggest planning time to just to stand in awe of the artwork.
The museum also includes works from Walter Anderson's brothers, Peter Anderson a Master Potter and founder of Shearwater Pottery, and James McConnell Anderson, a noted painter and ceramist.
The museum houses the Anderson brothers' watercolors, drawings, oils, block prints, ceramics, and carvings.
Ocean Springs Community Center - Home of Walter Anderson's largest mural
I NEED you to plan time to enjoy the 3,000 square foot murals in the community center. They depict the historic discovery of the Mississippi Coast and the seasons.
Going into the museum I didn't really understand the size and scope of the community center mural. It is awe-inspiring.
There are so many small details that draw you around the room.
The Little Room
The Little Room is a must-visit! Plan time to stand in the middle and feel the room. The room was placed in the same direction that it was while Walter Anderson was using it.
This gives you the opportunity to see how he saw the art with the sunlight filtering into the room.
Leon, the docent, told me that the Community Center was created for people to see, whereas the Little Room was created for Walter Anderson to enjoy.
This was his sanctuary, his space to create and feel like he was in nature. Walter Anderson painted this room to mentally transport himself to Horn Island.
The Traveler
The Traveler was opened in May 2025 and provides a unique artisan experience. There is a curated coffee shop, breakfast and lunch menu from local sources, and pop up events.
Almost everything at The Traveler, from furniture to native plantings to coffee cups, is artist designed, -curated, or -made.
Why you will love the Walter Anderson Museum
- Unbelievable art works of Walter Inglis Anderson
- Diverse changing exhibitions with the work of other significant artists
- Museum's permanent collection
Things to know when planning a visit to Walter Anderson Museum
Address - 510 Washington Avenue, Ocean Springs, MS, 39564
Phone - 228-872-3164
Hours - Monday - Saturday: 11 AM-5 PM
Sunday: 1-5 PM
Closed New Year's Day, Easter Sunday, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day
Please confirm with the museum to ensure that the hours have not changed.
Accessibility - There is a ramp leading into the museum and space to move around. Accessible parking is available next to the community center.
Plus Size Seating - There is a variety of chairs ranging from plastic chairs to sturdy chairs in different exhibits.
Dress Code/Suggestions - Casual
Pets - Pets are not allowed in the museum.
Parking - There is parking next to the museum.
Restaurants and Attractions nearby
The Lady May - Delicious food, great atmosphere, and fun market.
Things to do in Ocean Springs, MS - The best things to do while exploring this great coastal Mississippi town.
TatoNut - Just down the street are some of our favorite donuts in the world.
The Shed BBQ Joint - Enjoy award winning barbecue in a really fun atmosphere.
Blue Dog Bistro - Delicious food and a really fun menu!
Pop Brothers - Gourmet popsicles you have to try!
Coastal Mississippi Tours and Attractions
Hard Rock Cafe Biloxi - Hard Rock Cafe voucher gets you to the front of the line with priority seating!
Historical Haunted Bayou Cruise - Explore the back bayous along the Mississippi Sound.
eBike Rental in Biloxi and Ocean Springs - Peddle your way through town on a great e-Bike
Check out all of the great tours in the Biloxi Area
Additional Gulf Coast Articles
Woody's Roadside Biloxi - Check out the menu and fun at this great Mississippi Gulf Coast restaurant.
Jacked Up Coffee Biloxi - Check out this amazing coffee shop with an incredible menu.
Beau Rivage Resort - Find out what it is like to stay at this gorgeous Biloxi resort.
Ocean Springs Lodging
If you are visiting and need to book accommodations, here are our recommendations.
The map below shows the current hotels and vacation rentals available in the area. You can select the dates you are visiting to see current availability.
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