Page 79 - South Mississippi Living - January, 2020

Centennial Plaza’s grand opening in August of a last year was a dream come true for the City
of Gulfport and the visionaries behind the project. After sitting vacant for years, the old VA hospital has found finally found its new beginning as a premier resort.
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“Of course after Katrina we lost the VA, but that loss has been a huge gain for Gulfport,” City Council President Rusty Walker said at the opening. “We’re so excited to have not only one hotel, but two hotels.”
The revitalized property houses the Grand Centennial Hotel, a luxury hotel with views of the Centennial Plaza grounds, and Oasis Resort, which offers rooms and suites designed for families – bunk beds and waterpark are included. The grounds also house the Blue Marlin Restaurant and a chapel that’s perfect for events big and small, not just “I dos.”
The renovation project kicked off
in March 2018, taking on 10 historic buildings and transforming the property from a former military installation to a 48-acre resort complex.
“Centennial Plaza has been completely reimagined as the area’s premier family and business traveler destination,” says Area Sales Manager Kaylie Holley.
“We made it a priority to preserve the more than 100 years of history that was here. The renovated Centennial Plaza highlights the beauty and splendor of the area and is destined to be the crown jewel of the Mississippi Gulf Coast.”
Coastal Mississippi CEO Milton Segarra says that Centennial Plaza will step up
the Coast’s game in a big way. “This type of facility is a new option for families, couples and business groups. It’s really a remarkable investment. We have so many things to offer; this particular resort is an example of that beauty and diversity we have in terms of product, services and experiences here in Coastal Mississippi.”
And experiences abound at Centennial Plaza. One of its most famous features
is the 25,000-gallon dancing fountain, which delights viewers young and old with color-changing, choreographed jets that are synced to nearly 30 songs. Oasis Resort and Grand Centennial Hotel guests can also enjoy the three-acre water playground, complete with side-by-side racing slides, lazy river and zero-entry pool.
Special events are where Centennial Plaza truly shines. From music festivals to Cruisin’ the Coast, where the Plaza plays host to Cruise Central, there’s always something going on the grounds. Visit Centennial Plaza’s website for upcoming events and dining specials.
Centennial Plaza
220 E Beach Blvd., Gulfport 228.206.7880 www.centennialplazams.com
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