Gulfport has a vibrant local economy with many locally owned businesses and shops.  There are sveral art and craft galleries and many restaurants and cafes to shop at and enjoy right in Gulfport's buiness district. There are many annual festivals and events that are held in downtown Gulfport including the pet rescue event called Get Rescued. There is a Spring Fest that happens every year in March on the fourth Saturday. This event draws crafts and art vendors, live musicians and more. The other exciting annual event that Gulport hosts is the July Fourth celebration which there is a fireworks displaywith a parade, live music and vendors.

The largest street fesitaval of the year in Gulfport is the Gecko fest which is held at the Williams Pier on the waterfront on Saturday of the labor day weeked and includes small arts vendors and business, street performers, musicians, food businesses and vendors and artisans showing their wares.

The Gulfport Casino is the major venue in the city and has a large ballroom which hosts many events throughout the year including dance competitions and festivals. This facility has a 5000 SF authentic 1930s dance floor which is second to none.

Gulfport is also the home of the Law Campus of Stetson University where top students from all over the world learn the law and study to become trial attorneys. The school was moved there in 1954 from the main campus in DeLand Florida.