An MGM Resorts International property, the Beau Rivage Resort & Casino brings headliner performers and unique entertainment to the Mississippi Gulf Coast. On the weekend we visited, comedian Jim Gaffigan filled the 1,550-seat theater. Throughout the summer, the intimate space will feature a Cirque-style production, Circovia, and a variety of entertainers from Gladys Knight to Better Than Ezra.

Located east of New Orleans and west of Mobile, Ala., the resort’s entrance with some three dozen live oak trees, azaleas, camellias and evergreens creates a lush Southern welcome. Inside, thousands of potted chrysanthemums and several trees border the lobby walkway. Mosaic tile floors and carpeting repeat the floral motifs throughout the resort. Abundant sunlight from the soaring glass ceiling illuminates the indoor garden.

We walked past several retail shops. A glittery pair of Mary Jane pumps made me pause. The new display featured shoes designed by Sex In The City star Sarah Jessica Parker. The promenade of shops carries a variety of designer clothing, jewelry, gifts, accessories and home décor items.

Our 15^th-floor ocean-view king guestroom looked out on the Gulf of Mexico. The 400-square-foot space included a coffeemaker, safe and free WiFi. The hotel features an outdoor swimming pool with an adjacent fitness center on the second floor. For a bit of pampering, schedule a massage or facial at the spa and salon.

After dropping off our luggage, we attended a business meeting at the Buffet — a great casual choice. The enormous selection ranged from fresh-boiled Gulf shrimp and made-to-order pasta to a sushi bar and global cuisine highlighting a different country every month. When we needed a pick-me-up, The Roasted Bean provided a much-needed cappuccino. A fun gift for the house sitter is a bag of coffee or chocolate-covered coffee beans.

Beau Rivage’s casino encompasses 85,000 square feet with 80 playing tables and 1,900 slot machines. A non-smoking section features nearly 300 slot machines. Before playing, sign up for the casino’s reward program, Mlife, which provides some immediate perks for new members.

After a few hands of video poker, we went in search of a sweet treat. While debating the merits of ice cream versus a brownie, exploding fireworks sent excited guests scurrying outside to view the impromptu display. The unexpected show was the perfect ending to our evening.

Beau Rivage Resort and Casino

875 Beach Blvd.
Biloxi, MS 39530
tel 228 386 7111
beaurivage.com