Notably, the museum is one of the few free things to do in town and its a great way to spend an hour in Gulf Shores. These cool boat tours are interactive as you engage with your captain and get to know the residents of this beautiful body of water. Theres no doubt most come for the food, but the event also offers great music and a number of artistic events. The beach extends all the way to neighboring Orange Beach for a total of over three miles of space to sunbathe, play, and enjoy your day out. Address: 24037 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, AL 36561, United States. Bon Secour NWR is one of the best kept secrets on the entire Alabama Gulf Coast. 1. You can enjoy an endless array of sights, activities and natural beauty. A fun place to visit tomorrow or this weekend, be sure to add a stop at Lulus to your itinerary. Check out more events happening this spring and make a break for the beach! Peninsula Golf and Racquet Club recently underwent a multi-million dollar golf course renovation that added world-class bunkers and paths to improve the overall experience. The Refuge consists of a really nice Nature Center and two great hiking trails. There are also regular reenactments conducted here, as well as special events and guided tours available. Like this US Gulf Coast Travel article? The refuge has four distinct trails of varying lengths and terrains. That makes them a lot easier to fly than regular planes and you can experience that for yourself once your flight instructor hands you the controls as you fly over the beautiful coastline and try to catch sight of dolphins. If youre looking for one of the most epic water experiences when youre visiting Alabama, be sure to book a charter with Sailaway Charters Eco-Tours. 31 Best & Fun Things To Do In Napa Valley (California), 32 Best & Fun Things To Do In Providence (Rhode Island), 30 Best & Fun Things To Do In Frankenmuth (Michigan), 21 Best & Fun Things To Do In Athens (Georgia), 31 Best & Fun Things To Do In Bentonville (Arkansas), 20 Best & Fun Things To Do In Tybee Island (Georgia), 30 Best & Fun Things To Do In Jackson (Mississippi). If youre looking for unique things to do in Gulf Shores, be sure to book an Orange Beach Cat Boat Tour. Notably, Navy Cove oysters are medium in size, buttery in texture, and moderate in brine content. Address: 24559 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, AL 36561, United States. So, yes, you simply must visit Florabama to see what the fuss is about whether for its biggest event, the Mullet Toss, or surprise . For comfort with lots of amenities and four-star luxury, The Lodge at Gulf State Park is your best option. Youll get to see a glimpse of nature as you ride under the guidance of a professional instructor. Looking for things to do in Gulf Shores that wont break the bank? Banana boats are connected to a high-powered WaveRunner, which will pull you through the Gulf for about 10 minutes of non-stop thrills. Today, the ruins of the fort offer plenty of photo opportunities as you walk through the tunnels, stop by the cannons, and visit the many exhibits and plaques around. Gulf State Park. This weekend party runs from April 28 through 30 as participants compete to see who can throw a mullet furthest over the state line. Gulf Shores home to Alabama's most . There are even toy boxes on the beach, where you can grab a beach toy to keep kids entertained (or leave one behind when youre ready to leave). Concerning the museums exhibits, some of the interesting exhibit themes cover local fishing villages, a Gulf Shores commemorative exhibit, and an exhibit on local hurricanes. Colorful lights line the kayaks, making the tour extra fun. 1. There are ninja obstacle courses and climbing walls available, and you can even try rope swinging if youre up for it. Within the trail system, theres a picnic pavilion, dog park, restrooms, and tennis courts. I do like the place. Alligators at the farm come in all shapes and sizes and all live in large natural spaces that mimic their natural habitat. Gulf Shores & Orange Beach January 30, 2023 People always say, "April showers bring May flowers," but on the Alabama Gulf Coast, April brings lots of fun! Choose a budget 5-minute flight over the beach or a longer 12-minute flight that continues above the coastline. There are many different cruise offerings to fit any budget and needs, but most boats come equipped with open decks, comfortable seating, air-conditioned cabins, and a snack bar. Finally, the areas only glassblowing studio, The Hot Shop, and a clay studio are both situated on the same campus. Gulf State Park 1,425 State Parks Beaches Open now By Bilaspur This 6,500 acre park has remarkable infrastructure and facilities for RV camping; cabins in the woods and on the water 2023 2. Or try one of the two 60-minute escape rooms: a room filled with magic tricks and a hurricane room where you have to work to get into a safe shelter before the storm comes. Go to Alligator Alley Alligator Alley is one of the top attractions in the area and it's a must-see, even if your time is limited. Furthermore, the beach is surrounded by lovely restaurants as well as spots for watersport rentals. The park is home to spacious campgrounds with a welcoming visitors lodge as well as tons of opportunities for scenic, outdoor recreation. Address: 110 HWY 180, Gulf Shores, AL 36542, United States. 28. The waters here offer a great variety of fish, including tigerfish, napper, grouper, and more. Its a stupendous restaurant with great food, smashing drinks, loads of entertainment, and beyond. Gulf State Park boasts two miles of powdery sands, with the largest fishing pier on the Gulf of Mexico jutting out into azure waters. The zoo offers animal encounters that allow you to get up close and personal with adorable two-toed sloths as well as other animals. Sitting under a convertible glass roof, youll find lazy rivers, racing parallel slides, body slides, and a plunge slide with an impressive floor drop and a 360-degree loop. Things to Do in April | Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are also largely defined by our many points of interest! This is one university youll definitely want to attend when youre on vacation! Notably, the refuge was established in 1980 to protect endangered neotropical animals and threatened species. Customized sailing and catamaran cruises are available for a romantic evening out or if you want privacy with friends or family. It offers a mix of local cuisine, American fare, and lots of seafood. #1 in Gulf Shores Address: 20115 State Highway 135 Beaches, Natural Wonders, Free, Parks and Gardens, Sports, Hiking, Recreation, Swimming/Pools TYPE Half Day to Full Day 12295 State Highway 180 Website Price & Hours Free Details Beaches, Natural Wonders, Free, Parks and Gardens, Hiking, Recreation Type 2 hours to Half Day Time to Spend scorecard 5.0Value. US Gulf Coast Travel tip: Flora-bama hosts church services every Sunday at 9am and 11am, and it is not unusual to attend service with a frosty adult beverage (a Flora-bama Bushwhacker is the popular choice). 12 Best Things to Do in Gulf Shores | U.S. News Travel One of the coolest Gulf Shores attractions for children, The Factory curates amazing recreational activities. Get a birds-eye view over this beautiful coastal city and its surroundings as you board a helicopter and let a professional pilot take you to the best spots. With hotels central to tons of action and entertainment, you wont regret staying proximally to The Wharf. Flora-bama Lounge and Oyster Bar is a classic roadhouse style bar known for live music and good times. The weekend also includes live music, door prizes, vendor booths, cash giveaways and a parade cruise. Ride the whitewater gauntlet, try some carnival games, or scream on your way down on the parks looping coaster. For a quick meal, stop by Bahama Bobs Beach Side Cafe and try their many specialties from alligator bites to buffalo wings to seafood gumbo. Less than an hour away, Pensacola is famous for its world-class beaches that attract visitors from all over the country. The cruises take guests through Perdido Pass into the Gulf of Mexico where youll observe colorfully splendid sunsets. Furthermore, Lulus hosts live music acts every day of the week. Situated just a stones throw away from Orange Beach, a visit to Adventure Island is the best way to end a beach day. Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge. Rife with adventure, entertainment, and all-out fun, The Wharf is one of the best places to visit in Alabama. Things to do in Gulf Shores Alabama include visiting the spectacular Alabama Beaches, exploring Orange Beach and Gulf Shores, and dining at amazing Alabama coast restaurants. Do not worry, that water is not bloody or even dirty. Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge Reviews | U.S. News Travel This massive park is laid out so that you can see alligators starting from the youngest to the oldest. Youll even have your own captain and crew to ensure a smooth sail just bring your own food and drinks (a small cooler is great), a change of clothes if you want to clean up at the end of the trip, and plenty of sun protection. Longer experiences include 20-minute flights over the golf in search of dolphins, sea rays, and turtles. Some article links may be affiliate links where we receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. In addition to large mammals like Bengal tigers and American black bears, the zoo also has a large reptile house, camels, a significant number of primates, and a petting zoo where you can make friends with a donkey or a sheep. Or you can tour Navy Cove, where the oysters are farmed every Monday. There is a small entrance fee but it is worth it for the sugar-white sand beach and crashing waves. Furthermore, The Wharf is home to an amphitheater that hosts top entertainers throughout the year. Top Things to Do in Gulf Shores, Alabama | Evolve 10 Cheap & Free Things To Do in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach. Smaller cruises like the Sunny Lady offer a more intimate setting that allows for better visibility and photo ops. Whats more, a fun activity to do while youre in town is visiting the oyster farm for a unique tour. Gulf State Park Beach If you are looking for a fantastic Gulf Shores beach, then Gulf State Park is the place for you! There are three major exhibitions set up here, which include a closer look into the 19th-century fishing village that once stood here and the families that called it home. Moreover, the trail is popular for birdwatching and nature observance in sanctuaries such as the Butterfly Garden. For those hoping to catch sight of some of those birds, the Alabama Coastal Birding Trail is a must-visit. An art gallery, multiple restaurants, private beaches, a clubhouse, and shopping, are some of the other fine amenities on the property. The farm also offers an Alligator Alley Adventure, where visitors can hold a baby alligator for a photo and interact with staff members to find out more about these misunderstood creatures. Charters offer trips that last anywhere from two to six hours depending on your needs. Nearby Bear Point Marina is a great place to find exactly. Although it can get crowded on weekends (especially if there are special events nearby), it tends to offer plenty of space during the week, especially if you arrive in the morning. Address: Gulf Shores, Alabama, United States. The resort has both indoor and outdoor pools as well as a fitness center and a nearby hiking trail. Try some chocolate bark, grab their famous pecan caramel, or give their signature real butter fudge a try. You can buy a climb or a jump experience (or a combination ticket to try everything The Factory has to offer) for either 2 or 3 hours. Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. Tickets sell out quickly, especially to big-star concerts, so get yours in advance if your favorite star is coming to town. A more accessible space offering equipment rental, carts, and spectacular views all around, the Gulf Shores Golf Club is open seven days a week. As such, you can trust them to sell you fresh, quality seafood every time you visit. Theres a convenient picnic pavilion, a fishing pier, and a lovely waterfront park. Shrimp Basket is another great seafood destination, a diner-like setup that offers some of the best fried seafood in town. Harris Propertiesand Southern Vacation Rentals hosted us in convenient 2 bedroom condos in beachfront buildings. There are also flights over the Gulf State Park and flights over the picturesque islands of Ono, Robinson, and Walker. Although nothing remains of that settlement, the place where it once stood is marked by a plaque commemorating the arrival of some of the Spanish explorer Hernando DeSotos men to the area. 1. The Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge offers over five miles of trails and plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife. Teaching different styles of art that employ an array of artistic mediums, the center is the perfect place for budding artists to learn new techniques. While in Gulf Shores Alabama, be sure to savor luscious, soft, white, sugar sand US Gulf Coast Beaches, explore historic and natural attractions, and experience one of USAs most unique adventure activities. Top 100+ Attractions in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach 2023 11 Best Gulf Shores, AL Spring Break Activities 2023 - TripShock No matter your budget or what you want to see, theres a flight perfect for your needs. Inside Gulf State Park there is a championship golf course, beach pavilion, tennis courts, hiking . The fort has been designated a National Historic Landmark. You can charter a 65-foot fishing boat (complete with an air-conditioned cabin and bathroom) for anywhere between four and 10 hours. Here are ten things to do in April in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Step into a tropical world where pirate ships, bodies of water, and bridges await. At the event, unique and spectacular classic cars line Main Street at The Wharf as spectators admire them from up close. Craving more adrenaline? One of the worlds few singing impressionists who can switch through many voices and mannerisms in a single song, Brandon Style has been performing in Alabama for a long time. This small city along the shores of the Gulf of Mexico and adjacent to Orange Beach boasts some of the best beaches in the nation. The soft white sugar sand draws visitorshuman and animalsall year round. For the ultimate thrill, try the elevated tracks, where you head up three stories up, get in your cart and slide down the hill at heart-pumping speeds. During these tours, youll choose from a chartered, captained boat, a kayak experience, or a delta charter. Golfing -10. 2001 W 1st St. Gulf Shores, AL 36542. First up is the 25th Annual Mullet Man Triathlon on April 22. Experience the Hangout Music Festival in Gulf Shores, or celebrate all things strawberry at the Baldwin County Strawberry Festival. Dont forget to take a selfie inside the mouth of the beast before you head back to your hotel! If youre wondering what to do in Gulf Shores for a taste of local history, make sure to check out Gulf Shores Museum. Glendale Rosal Mar 9, 2023 11 min read Pugalenthi Iniabarathi / shutterstock.com Gulf Shores is a well-rounded vacation destination in Alabama. Visit the Zoo -11. Specializing in intimate sunset cruises and exciting family adventures, these cruises are one of the top Gulf Shores attractions. If youre an experienced paddler, you can rent your own tandem kayak to take on the Little Lagoon in the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, just minutes away from Gulf State Park. Highlight: The squeaky white sand that the Gulf Shores is famous for makes for a fun day at the beach. Plenty of rental companies can set you up with kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards for stints of up to eight hours. However, there are plenty of potential wildlife sightings whenever you decide to go. Here you can pick up all the fresh seafood fixings you need to enjoy a classic coastal dinner. The Mobile Bay Civil War Trail runs 90 miles and stretches from the Gulf of Mexico to north Mobile County. Feet getting too tired? Sailing trips range in length from two to three hours and can accommodate up to six passengers. Situated near Gulf Shores on Mobile Point is Fort Morgan, a historical site worth visiting. Rotating exhibits focus on issues and events important to the area. Food trucks are regularly set outside the brewery to grab a bite or you have food delivered to the brewery if you want to enjoy dinner with a drink (the brewery doesnt have a kitchen). Founded in 1972, this community theater is a great place to enjoy the dramatic arts in a more intimate way. Get a sense of the Gulf Shores itself as you see local people of all ages and all walks of life present great plays, musicals, and other fun shows. You can choose from 20 40 or 60-minute-long flights. Chartering one of these unique boats takes you on a guided tour as you explore the Gulfs warm waters, the Orange Beach coastline, and the intercoastal waterway. If you want to make your tour extra special, opt for a cruise at sunset. Fun in the Sky in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach | Helicopter Tours, Gyroplanes, Parasailing, & More! From the Gulf of Mexico to the back bays, lagoons and freshwater lakes, there are countless waterways to cast your line when fishing on the Alabama Gulf Coast. Most of the suites at the resort come with epic views of the Gulf of Mexico as well as the warm sea breezes that are guaranteed all summer long. Finally, while some of the trails pass along the Gulf of Mexico, there are also three incredible lakes around which the trails interweave. After youve checked out the coastlines best spots, head out to Pensacola in neighboring Florida. In addition to watersports, you can also acquire equipment for land sports too. Watch the 360-degree video for Wind & Water Learning Center. Go ahead and book a ticket for a fun, relaxed evening enjoying a show like youve never seen before. Stay till the sun starts to go down for some great golden sky colors with the fort as your background. Whats more, The Factory has an arcade that features epic games, batting cages, a flight simulator, and ice cream machines. Gulf State Park Courtesy of Eric - Fotolia.com A must-see on your weekend getaway, Gulf State Park is a 6,500-acre park located along the Gulf of Mexico between Highways 59 and 161 that is managed by the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. A 4-person scramble, this tournament is a favorite among golfers. One of the greatest points of interest for family fun, The Track Family Fun Park is a must-see. Christie Shannon is the museum administrator and is VERY knowledgeable about everything inside and out of her charges. You can choose between private sails to visit the spots of your choice or group sailing if you have a smaller budget or prefer to leave the planning to others. Encompassing some of the state's last remaining undisturbed coastal habitat, Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge(BSNWR) is the perfect place for nature enthusiasts vacationing along our shores. Furthermore, Orange Beach is surrounded by many fun attractions. The waterfront city is also a great destination for its amusement parks, sports, and arts and culture. One of the top 10 ways to spend a beach day in Gulf Shores is by booking a class with the experts at Sand Castle University. Why not check out some of the things to do in Mobile, AL? Visit one or get a combination ticket for all-day-long fun and thrills. Address: 26389 Canal Rd, Orange Beach, AL 36561, United States. 10 Things to do in Gulf Shores, AL for First Time Visitors - Money Inc Tours last two hours and include a walk on the beach. 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Please add it to your favorite Pinterest board. Watch on While driving to Fort Morgan, make sure you allow time to hike the Jeff Friend Trail in the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge. Local Gulf Shores cuisine experiences we love include eating Royal reds (local shrimp) at The Steamer, sampling craft beer at Big Beach Brewing, dining on fresh grilled seafood and rum drinks at LuLus (Jimmy Buffetts sister), local BBQ (amazing) at Hog Wild, and happy hour at Bills by the Beach (now closed). All equipment is included. You can even find merchandise (shrimp-inspired T-shirt, anyone?) From adventurous tours to exciting amusements and unassuming eateries to art spots galore, this quaint beach town delivers. Order their famous coconut shrimp basket or one of their many deep-fried specialties for a quick but delicious meal that wont break the bank. Beach day Can't get over these water views in Gulf Shores Okay when you first arrive in a gorgeous beachy spot like this, you'll want to hit the beach right away.

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