The Wharf

In Orange Beach, The Wharf is a shopaholic’s dream come true. Encompassing 350,000 square feet of retail space, there are premier stores and boutiques on Main Street, Wharf Parkway, plus shopping on the Boardwalk at the Marina. With a wide choice of excellent restaurants and eateries, you can spend the entire day and never miss a meal. Visit www.thewharfal.com.

Head over to San Roc Cay Marina & Shopping Plaza and browse eclectic boutiques featuring beachwear, swimwear, fashion, accessories and more. You’ll love the laid-back pace of the Blue Lagoon, Ocean Eddies, Dunia-Exotica and other unique shops. When you’re ready for a lunch break, San Roc Cay offers a choice of restaurants including Cafe Grazie, Louisiana Lagniappe, and Gulf Shores Steamer. Visit www.sanroccay.com.

Alvin’s Island

Alvin’s Island is a one-of-a-kind tropical department store with unique gifts, souvenirs, swimwear, casual sportswear and more. Visit one of their two locations: 100 West Beach Blvd, Gulf Shores, or 24949 Perdido Beach Blvd., Orange Beach.

Souvenir City & Bizarre Bazaar

When it’s time to shop for funky souvenirs and tee-shirts for the folks back home, there’s the famous Souvenir City. Family-owned since 1956, they offer two locations. Don’t miss the Shark’s Head “photo op” at the entrance of the 217 Gulf Shores Parkway store. Or, stop in the second location at 24644 Perdido Beach Blvd. Bizarre Bazaar, located at 25405 Perdido Beach Blvd., is another place for souvenirs, wild gifts, unusual games, nautical gifts and more.

Hollis Ole Crush Antique Mall

Just a few minutes north of Gulf Shores, the town of Foley is a haven for antique collectors. One of the most popular is Hollis Ole Crush Antique Mall. Crowded with curios and memorabilia, you’ll feel like you’re poking around great-grandma’s attic. Foley also offers some great second-hand stores where you might just find an overlooked treasure for sale. Before you leave, shop for fantastic bargains at Tanger Outlet Center located at 2601 S McKenzie Street.

Fairhope

In the nearby town of Fairhope, charming streets are lined with antique stores, art galleries and one-of-a-kind shops. Stop in the Eastern Shore Art center to see museum-quality paintings and sculptures by local artists (www.esartcenter.com). You’ll also enjoy taking a stroll around the town’s scenic French Quarter.

Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

Learn Meet the stars of the 2006 Animal Planet Show, “The Little Zoo That Could.” The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is home to over 300 animals including lions, tigers, bears, monkeys and more. Other highlights include a petting zoo, reptile house, aviary, animal shows and special exhibits. Just blocks from the beach, the zoo is located at 1204 Gulf Shores Parkway. For admission fees and exhibit information visit www.alabamagulfcoastzoo.org.
For a casual lunch, Doc’s Seafood Shack is a short walk from the zoo, located at 1140 Gulf Shores Parkway. Doc’s is famous for fried oysters, “PoBoys,” grilled shrimp and other regional classics. Or, just across the street at 1137 Gulf Shores Parkway, King Neptune’s Seafood Restaurant offers a wide choice of fish, shrimp and regional specialties.

The Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge

If you prefer to commune with nature in native habitats, visit The Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge. Located on the Fort Morgan Peninsula down Highway 180, this 7,000-acre wildlife sanctuary features refuge beaches and a variety of hiking trails ranging from one mile to over four miles long. For complete information go to www.fws.gov/bonsecour.

Pastry Box

In the mood for a quick snack with a wild photo op on the side? Head for Pastry Box, located at 1140 Gulf Shores Parkway. Just outside, beyond the fence overlooking the lagoon, local marsh alligators show off for visitors and smile for the camera.

Alligator Alley

True gator lovers should head out to Alligator Alley to see a feeding-time performance by their record-breaking star, Captain Crunch. Holding the world record at over 13-feet long and 800-plus pounds, this 38-year-old king of the Alabama swamplands has the strongest bite ever recorded. Alligator Alley features over 150 snakes, reptiles and gators plus an elevated walking pier that leads you through the Cypress swamps. For admission rates and feeding schedules, go to www.gatoralleyfarm.com.

Estuarium at Dauphin Island Sea Lab

The Estuarium at Dauphin Island Sea Lab is a place to learn about creatures of the deep blue sea. Tanks are brimming with fish, turtles, jellyfish and octopus. Visit www.sealabestuarium.org for complete information. Before you leave Dauphin Island, stop at the Audubon Bird Sanctuary and walk Alabama’s Osprey Nesting trail. There are other peaceful paths to hike plus boardwalks with scenic views of the lake and woodlands. Go to www.dauphinisland.org.

LuLu’s at Homeport Marina

When dinnertime rolls around, order a cheeseburger in paradise at LuLu’s at Homeport Marina. Owned by Jimmy Buffett’s little sister, LuLu Buffett, this is the place for LuLu’s famous gumbo, fried oysters, seafood specialties, and signature Margaritas. There’s also a great kids’ menu and an outdoor playground to keep them busy while Mom and Dad linger over dessert. With a specialty shop, evening entertainment and more, LuLu’s is an attraction in itself. For directions and to see the complete menu go to www.lulusathomeport.com.

The Battleship USS Alabama Memorial Park

Experience The Battleship USS Alabama Memorial Park located at 2703 Battleship Parkway. Here you can walk the decks of the famous “Mighty A” and explore the USS Drum, a valor award-winning submarine that served in the days after the Pearl Harbor attack. The park also features a collection of combat aircraft from WWI, WWII, Korea and Viet Nam, plus an array of tanks, a Vietnam River Patrol Boat and more. For complete information, admission rates and directions go to www.ussalabama.com.

The Civil War Trail

The Civil War Trail offers an opportunity to explore the riverbanks where troops gathered and camped on their journey north. Running through the site of the 1864 Battle of Mobile Bay, the Civil War Trail spans over 90 miles, from the Gulf of Mexico to north Mobile County. While you’re in Mobile, head downtown to the Fort Condé Museum, a partial replica of an original 18th century French fort where costumed guides lead intriguing tours. Go to www.mobile.org.

Fort Morgan

See Fort Morgan – the guardian of Mobile Bay. Guides in Civil War costumes will intrigue you with tales of heroism as you enjoy vignettes based on actual historic events. Famous for the pivotal role it played in the Battle of Mobile Bay, Fort Morgan also served in the Spanish-American War, World War I and World War II. In fact, many consider Fort Morgan to be one of finest examples of military architecture in the country. For details information about the guided Candlelight Tours go to www.ft-morgan.com.

Fort Gaines

Set on Dauphin Island overlooking Mobile Bay, Fort Gaines boasts a history that spans three centuries. Since its construction, control of the fort passed from France, to England, to Spain, and finally to the United States in 1817 when the government seized the territory around Mobile Bay. Fort Gaines also played a pivotal role in the famous Battle of Mobile Bay. For complete information go to www.dauphinisland.org.

Blakeley State Park

Blakeley State Park, in Spanish Fort, AL, is a fusion of natural beauty and Civil War history. Here, 26,000 soldiers fought in the last significant Civil War battle, six hours after General Robert E. Lee surrendered at Appomattox. Set beside the scenic Tensaw River, the park features 10.5 miles of hiking trails, prehistoric Indian mounds and a Ghost Town – the 1814 City of Blakeley. For admission rates and guided tour information go to www.blakeleypark.com.

National Naval Aviation Museum

Enjoy free tours at the National Naval Aviation Museum in Pensacola, FL. Encompassing over 300,000 square feet, it’s one of the largest aviation museums in the world. See over 150 historic aircraft, thousands of artifacts and compelling exhibits. For IMAX movie ticket information, go to www.navalaviationmuseum.org. Don’t forget to check the calendar for free concerts by the “Air National Band Of The South” and free Blue Angels Air Shows.

Tacky Jack’s Tavern & Grill

Before exploring the great outdoors, start off with the hearty Farmers Omelet at Tacky Jack’s Tavern & Grill on Safe Harbor Drive. Famous for their breakfast selection, the plate-sized pancake is big enough for two. See what else is on the menu at www.tackyjacks.com.

The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail

Work off those breakfast calories with a hike along The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail. Dating back centuries, historic points are marked along the way and you may catch a glimpse of the legendary "Catman" who lurks in the woodlands and swamps. To download a trail map go to: www.obparksandrec.com.

Alabama Coastal Birding Trail

Another great option is the Alabama Coastal Birding Trail. Spanning two counties, there are miles and miles of trails loops to explore as you look for native and migrating bird species. To download a free birding guide, visit www.alabamacoastalbirdingtrail.com.

Cosmo’s Restaurant & Bar

When it’s time for lunch, the Orange Beach area offers a wide range of options. But don’t go home before you experience Cosmo’s Restaurant & Bar on Canal Road. Famous for great food at good prices, it’s a long-time favorite among locals and visitors alike. Visit www.cosmosrestaurantandbar.com.

Orange Beach Kayak & Canoe Trail

If you prefer an adventure on the water, the Orange Beach Kayak & Canoe Trail offers a self-guided tour with 10 official launch points around Orange Beach. For kayak rental information and to download maps, go to www.orangebeach.ws.

Kayak Tours

For kayak tours, there’s a great choice of adventures, reasonably priced and including all equipment. The Beach'n River Canoe & Kayak Rental offers self-guided tours featuring on-site launching just 100 yards from the breathtaking Bon Secour River (see beachnriverkayakrentals.com/). Alabama Kayak Adventures offers guided Eco-Tours along Alabama’s back bays and estuary systems (see www.alabamakayakadventures.com). At the Five Rivers Bartram Canoe & Kayak Landing, guided tours include adventures along the beautiful Mobile-Tensaw Delta, the second biggest river delta in the USA (see www.outdooralabama.com).

The Hangout

When it’s time for dinner, continue that great outdoors feeling at The Hangout. Here, great food is served in an open-air dining area overlooking the beach. The Hangout features three outdoor bars; a 50-foot tower with a movie screen, plus an outdoor stage with live music and entertainment. There’s also a patio area with picnic tables, a fire pit and a huge playground for the kids. For more information go to www.thehangoutal.com.

Waterville USA

Set within 20 acres, Waterville USA is considered the biggest and best water park in the South. Thrill seekers will love the awesome wave pool, exciting water slides, the amazing FlowRider and more. For younger kids there are rides, play areas and pint-sized water slides. Out-of-the-water attractions include a rollercoaster, a video arcade, go-carts, 36-holes of mini-golf and more. Located at 906 Gulf Shores Parkway, go to www.watervilleusa.com for ticket information.

Adventure Island

Adventure Island truly lives up to its name. See a five-story high erupting volcano. Race the go-kart track, ride bumper boats and play laser tag. There’s an arcade with over 100 video games, a Max Flight Simulator, plus mini-golf, rock-wall climbing, plus rides just for little kids. Located at 24459 Perdido Beach Blvd., for more information visit www.adventure-island.com.

The Track Recreation Center

Head to The Track Recreation Center and experience the Skycoaster -- a 110-foot free-fall skydive that can reach speeds of 70 miles-per-hour. Race the Wild Woody -- a three-story track with lots of twists and turns. Ride Blaster Boats -- where water cannons give you a good soaking as you bob along. The Track also boasts the most rides in town for littlest adventurers, plus mini-golf, a video arcade and more. Located at 3200 Gulf Shores Parkway, go to www.gulfshorestrack.com for complete information.

The Ferris Wheel at The Wharf

The Ferris Wheel at The Wharf is the largest in Alabama. Soaring over 112-feet high, it has 24 gondolas and can hold up to 140 people at a time. While you’re there, buy tickets to the Wharf’s 175-foot long water slide, The Hippo. Visit www.thewharfal.com.

The Exploreum

The Exploreum in Mobile offers ways to play like a kid while learning about science and nature. Hands-onsite interactive exhibits include the Body Works Exhibit, Ciba Lab, Minds On, a Bio Lab and more. There’s also an IMAX theatre presenting an ever-changing line-up of intriguing films. Visit www.exploreum.com for directions and complete information.

Mini Golf

If you’re just in the mood for a round of mini-golf, Gulf Shores has a great selection of places to go. Pirates Island Adventure Golf, Zooland Mini Golf and, for those rainy days, Paradise Indoor Mini Golf. For addresses and directions, go to www.gulfshores.com.

Eden Spa & Salon

Eden Spa & Salon in Orange Beach offers Spa Day packages plus complete hair salon services, nail care and waxing. Licensed therapists and aestheticians provide facial treatments such as deep cleansing, exfoliation and hydration. Plus a range of body treatments including massage, aromatherapy, body wraps and more. Call for directions and an appointment at 251-981-8600.

C.C.'s Full Service Salon

C.C.'s Full Service Salon in Gulf Shores will pamper you with a full range of delights including: facials, massage, manicures, pedicures, waxing, cuts, colors, make-up and more. It's a great option for weddings and girls' day out. Walk-ins are welcome. Call 251-968-2077 for more information.

Fusion Spa Salon

Located in Orange Beach at The Wharf, Fusion Spa Salon, an exclusive AVEDA spa, features a comprehensive range of treatments and packages from head to toe, plus an extensive selection of fine facial, hair care and beauty products. Call 251-224-HAIR for complete information.

Spa of Paradise at SanRoc Cay

Get rejuvenated at the Spa of Paradise, located at SanRoc Cay in Orange Beach. Book a massage therapy session and watch your stress melt away. Then treat yourself to a new hair style, and a polished look with a manicure and pedicure. Call for more details at 251-979-8585.