Gulf Shores, AL, is a resort community known for its beautiful white beaches and soothing, warm turquoise water. But the city has so much more to offer.
If you’re planning a Gulf Shores getaway, a visit to the amusement park, wildlife refuge, or zoo would be fun for the whole family. Going on a tour in a historic site or a dolphin cruise would be an amazing adventure for couples or if you’re vacationing with friends.
And, of course, a trip to this tourist location won’t be complete without enjoying the many dining and shopping options.
With so many places to explore, preparing your itinerary might be a challenge. This article enumerates the top 10 things to do in Gulf Shores, AL, to help you get started!
Let’s dive in.
Credit: Image by Tim Mossholder | Unsplash
1. Gulf State Park
There is something for everyone in Gulf State Park, with a plethora of activities, such as hiking, biking, fishing, exploring, geocaching, and paddling.
Nestled right in the center of the park, Lake Shelby is a 900-acre freshwater lake where you can enjoy water activities like kayaking, swimming, fishing, and jet skiing.
The Pavilion is one of the many beach accesses within the park. It features air-conditioned restrooms, private showers, a snack bar, and shaded picnic areas to eat and cool off.
The Gulf State Park Pier is a great fishing spot and a place to catch amazing views of the sunset. Nature lovers will enjoy the local wildlife along 2,448 feet of railing, such as pelicans, dolphins, and other marine life.
2. Fort Morgan Historic Site
Completed in 1834, the iconic Fort Morgan Historic Site is famous for being the place where Union Rear Admiral David bellowed the now-historic battle cry, “Damn the torpedoes, full speed ahead!” during the Battle of Mobile Bay.
You can take a self-guided tour and explore the fort’s massive structure made of 40 million bricks — a true testament to the skilled masonry of the era.
The museum features various exhibits on weapons, uniforms, letters, and photographs from soldiers who served at the fort.
Credit: Image by April Walker | Unsplash
3. Waterville USA
The whole family will have lots of fun in Waterville USA, with 20 sprawling acres of exciting things to do in Gulf Shores with kids.
This massive water park opened in 1986 and quickly became one of the most iconic attractions in Alabama because of its large selection of rides that cater to kids and kids at heart.
Some of the park’s popular attractions include:
- 55-foot-tall slides
- Simulated surfing, body boarding, snowboarding attraction
- An enclosed body slide over 350 feet
- 25,000-square-foot mammoth wave pool
- Colorful Rainbow Falls
- Interactive water playground
- Little pirates’ waterpark for children 42 inches tall and below
- Bungee trampoline
- Merry-go-round and mini-train ride
- An arcade
- Mini-Golf
- Go Kart racing
- Escape Rooms
- Lagoon Bar
4. Local Cuisine and Dining
Enjoying dinner with a view is one of the best things to do in Gulf Shores for couples. The Gulf restaurant in Orange Beach is a great spot to enjoy a meal and drinks while watching boats come and go in the Perdido Pass.
Lulu’s offers breathtaking waterfront views of the Intracoastal Waterway and is also accessible by boat. The restaurant boasts an extensive menu of allergy-friendly dishes, including dairy-free, egg-free, gluten-free, shellfish-free, soy-free, seafood-free, sesame-free, and nut-free options.
Tacky Jack’s is a favorite local hangout for Southern-style seafood and cold beverages with beautiful waterfront views. Patrons love their famous smoked tuna dip, “Tacky” shrimp, crawfish, oyster, and flakey fish po’boys prepared using their secret spices.
Credit: Image by Daiga Ellaby | Unsplash
5. Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is home to over 300 animals and 199 sub-species, including over 50 primates.
You can have a more personal experience for an extra fee, which will allow you to pet sloths and kangaroos. You can also feed lettuce to the giraffes! For families, the zoo’s Contact Barn allows kids to interact with goats, sheep, donkeys, and deer.
6. Shopping in Gulf Shores
Gulf Shores offers a great shopping experience to visitors with its unique boutiques and specialty shops.
One of the most popular stores in the area is Souvenir City. This souvenir store has been locally owned since 1956 and sells a wide range of apparel and beach accessories.
At Salt Coastal Outfitters, you’ll find unique offerings like local pottery, jewelry, housewares, gifts, and art, in addition to beautiful summer dresses, jewelry, handbags, and sandals.
Credit: Image by Kieran White | Unsplash
7. The Wharf
The Wharf is a retail paradise, with a wide variety of shops, from beachwear and jewelry to home décor. Walking for hours hopping from one shop to another is one of the best things to do in Gulf Shores.
The Wharf is also home to a lot of acclaimed restaurants, including Ginny Lane Bar and Grill, Villaggio Grille, and the Southern Grind Coffee House.
There are tons of entertainment spots as well, including AMC Theatre, an 18-hole mini-golf course, boat rentals, Orange Beach Breakout Games, and The Wharf’s Ferris wheel.
8. Dolphin Cruises
A trip to the Gulf Shores won’t be complete without going on a dolphin cruise. Experience first-hand views of dolphins and sea turtles with sugar-white sand beaches and ultramarine-blue waters as a backdrop.
One of the most beautiful times of the day to go on a dolphin cruise is in the early evening. The scenic Gulf shoreline is more picturesque as the sun is setting, and the golden hour offers cooler temperatures and a comfortable breeze.
Credit: Image by Nellie Adamyan | Unsplash
9. Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge
The Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge spans approximately 7,000 acres of coastal lands, ranging from beach dunes that are constantly changing to rolling pine-oak woodlands.
A natural oasis of wildlands where wildlife can exist without harm, the refuge has something for everyone, from a quiet stroll among the dunes to world-class birding opportunities.
10. Seasonal Events and Festivals
Both locals and visitors can look forward to fun and exciting events and festivals in the Gulf Shores year-round.
The Hangout Music Festival is an annual event that happens every May. It’s a three-day festival where thousands of music lovers gather on the white sands of the Gulf Coast.
Enjoy food, music, art, and more at the Annual National Shrimp Festival. This festival is held during the second weekend of October every year. It offers free admission and draws over 200,000 guests.
Note: This image may include elements generated by artificial intelligence (AI).
Conclusion
There you have it — 10 best things to do in Gulf Shores to help you get started with your getaway planning.
If you have any questions about the area, feel free to give us a call at (251) 270-6400 or send us an email at hollie@localpropertyinc.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
What activities are available for families in Gulf Shores?
Waterville USA and Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo offer numerous fun activities for families, such as go-kart racing, mini golf, wave pools, and a petting zoo.
Are there any historical sites to visit in Gulf Shores?
Yes, the iconic Fort Morgan Historic Site is one of the famous historic sites you must visit when in Gulf Shores.
What are the top dining options in Gulf Shores?
The Gulf restaurant in Orange Beach, Lulu’s, and Tacky Jack’s are some of the best restaurants in Gulf Shores.
