Things to Do in January
in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
Planning on taking a trip to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach this winter? January on Alabama's Beaches is an excellent time to visit the beach. The comfortable temperature mixed with fewer crowds makes it the ultimate vacation destination, and the month of January is full of indoor and outdoor activities for those of all ages to enjoy. Check out all the fun things to do in January in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.
Joining us along Alabama Beaches in January? Here are some fun things to do!
1. Get Wild at the Zoo
Ever wanted to hold a sloth or feed a giraffe? At the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, you can! This 25-acre zoo located in Gulf Shores is home to over 300 animals. A day spent here includes interactive shows, on-site dining, theme-park rides, and the chance to interact with some of the animals. You’ll definitely want to take advantage of the zoo’s animal encounters while you’re here for an unforgettable experience.
2. Have Prehistoric Fun
Everyone loves a game of mini golf while on a beach vacation, but have you ever experienced putt putt with dinosaurs? Jurassic Golf in Gulf Shores is a glow-in-the-dark indoor mini-golf course with 18 holes and lots of prehistoric creatures. You’ll see Triceratops, Pterodactyls, and even a Tyrannosaurs Rex as you move through this exciting black-light course.
3. get your morning brews
Keep warm by sipping a cup (or two or three) of coffee at one of the local coffee shops in the area. Grab a pastry or breakfast too and make it a meal or stop by in the afternoon for a midday pick-me-up. Whether you like it sugary sweet or black, you'll find a place to get your caffeine fix on our shores.
4. Go to the Next Level
If you’re looking for a thrilling activity to do during your stay, check out Arena The Next Level at The Wharf. This fun-filled spot features a 4,000 sq ft. laser tag arena and bazooka ball. If that’s not enough, there’s also an arcade filled with new and classic games. It’s the perfect place for a family outing.
5. Run the Beach
Grab your running shoes and head to the beach this January for the Big Beach Marathon, Half-Marathon, and 7K. This Boston Marathon qualifier boasts delightful scenery as runners wind through Gulf State Park and along the beach road. The 7K takes place on January 25, while the marathon and half marathon happen on the following day.
6. Try Glass Blowing
It may be a little chilly outside, but things are heating up at The Hot Shop. This glass-blowing studio is home to incredible artists who create stunning glass art at The Coastal Art Center in Orange Beach. The facility is open for guests to watch these glass-blowing experts while they work and browse their previous creations. If you’re feeling artistic, you can even sign up for a class led by one of the artists and make your own piece.
7. Jump, Climb, & Flip
If you’ve got energy to burn, The Factory is the spot for you! This fun trampoline park offers 12,000 square feet of world-class trampolines to jump on. Not only that, but The Factory also has foam pits, trampoline dodgeball and basketball, batting cages with pitching machines, and an arcade. With so much to do, you’re guaranteed to have a good time here!
8. Savor Greek Cuisine
In the mood for baklava or spanakopita? The St. Athanasios Greek Orthodox Church of Gulf Shores is hosting a Greek Dinner at the Orange Beach Event Center. The menu includes dolmathes, greek salad, roasted lamb, and more delicious food. Tickets are $85 and include your meal, plenty of tasty pastries, live music, and dancing!
9. take a Segway tour
You can enjoy outdoor activities all year here on the Gulf Coast. However, the cooler weather that winter brings to the coast makes January a great time to enjoy the natural beauty of the area without breaking a sweat. With 6,150 acres, Gulf State Park is a great place to explore, and one of the best ways to do that is with a guided Segway tour. Each tour begins with a lesson on how to operate the Segway, so you’ll ride with ease and confidence as you experience the park.
