![The Wharf Ferris Wheel](/sites/default/files/styles/new_hero_xs/public/2021-11/the_wharf_ferris_wheel_36_2_0.jpg?h=9dcb53d8&itok=JLGS6jLF)
With dozens of activities and attractions in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, you're sure to find something memorable for you and the whole family. With thrilling helicopter rides to relaxing boat charters, big game fishing to bird watching and nature trails, we offer a variety of fun outdoor activities for our many sunny days in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. We even offer unique rainy day activities for the few rainy days we might encounter. From mini golf and arcades to historical sites and art centers, our area offers something for everyone. Book a place to stay directly on our site and discover local attractions near your lodging.
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Discover Attractions Along Alabama's Beaches
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Fort Gaines Historic Site
The well-preserved ramparts of Fort Gaines have guarded the entrance to Mobile Bay for more than 150 years. Today, the...
Exploreum Science Center
With numerous interactive exhibits, thought-provoking larger-than-life Giant Screen films, and fun, hands-on educational programming, the Exploreum Science Center aspires to...
The Axe Hole
Enjoy an anger-management experience like no other- whether your friend stabbed you in the back, you wanna release your inner...
Escape House Waterville
Need an escape? We’ve got two game rooms to put your team to the test! Can you survive an approaching...
Mobile Carnival Museum
Immerse yourself in the rich history and traditions of carnival. See firsthand the intricate designs and artistry of majestic crowns...
Tanger Outlet Center
Tanger Outlets Foley 100s of brands, unbeatable values. Fashions for the entire family, accessories, footwear, gifts and more, you’re sure...
National Naval Aviation Museum
The National Naval Aviation Museum is the world’s largest Naval Aviation museum and one of the most-visited museums in the...
Gulf State Park Fishing and Education Pier
There is covered seating for the concession area and indoor retail shop with tackle and souvenirs. Signs along the pier...
Alabama's Coastal Connection Scenic Byway
Beautiful beaches, authentic downtowns, wildlife preserves, historic sites and fresh-off-the-boat seafood are all yours to enjoy along Alabama’s Coastal Connection...
Weeks Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve
This public research and education facility encompasses over 9,000 acres of protected estuarine habitats bordering Weeks Bay and Fish and...
Alabama Gulf Coast Music Hall
The Alabama Gulf Coast Music Hall is available for large and small groups, corporate meetings, weddings and special events. We...
Historic Oakleigh
The Historic Oakleigh House Museum is a circa 1833 country villa built by Virginian James Roper. A raised T-Shaped Greek...
Coastal Cuties Play Cafe
Designed by parents for parents, Coastal Cuties was developed for little ones ages 0-6 as a place to let their...
Shrimpy's Grill and Golf
Come play a round or two of putt-putt golf at Shrimpy’s Mini Golf and then enjoy some delicious food and...
Popular Attractions
![The Wharf Orange Beach, AL](https://www.gulfshores.com/sites/default/files/styles/single_column_image_medium/public/2023-05/thewharfgulfshores_-2_0.jpg?itok=8Zwy_P8N)
Action at The Wharf in Orange Beach
You won’t know what to do first at The Wharf in Orange Beach. For starters, the Wharf is home to one of the largest Ferris wheels in the Southeast. There are also laser tag, bazooka ball, and excursions from the marina. If you need a break from all that activity, sit back and enjoy live performances in the Wharf Amphitheater. Wherever you find yourself on the Wharf, there's enjoyment, dining, and entertainment waiting.
![The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo Gulf Shores, AL Marmoset](https://www.gulfshores.com/sites/default/files/styles/single_column_image_medium/public/2023-05/Marmoset%20Twins%202.jpg?itok=lnwzBOGE)
The Wild Side of Nature
Many people vacation to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach to enjoy not only our beaches, but also bear witness to our unique nature and exotic animals. The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is home to over 500 exotic animals including lions, tigers, primates, wolves and reptiles. You can even get close and personal with animals like kangaroos, lemurs, snakes and sloths.
![Gulf State Park Bird Gulf Shores, AL](https://www.gulfshores.com/sites/default/files/styles/single_column_image_medium/public/2023-05/back_country_trail_cb_gms2016-5629_1.jpg?itok=mAaNLsNN)
Migrations at Gulf State Park
Bird-lovers from across the country also flock to the Gulf Coast to enjoy the different Orange Beach and Gulf Shores birds. The Alabama Coastal Birding Trail features several bird-spotting locations including the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail, which has recently been extended and now winds more than 27 miles through Orange Beach to the pristine sands of Gulf State Park (where you will find the Pier, the perfect place to cast a line for some Gulf Shores fishing). The Branyon area is one of the last intact maritime forests in coastal Alabama and an important stopping point for millions of migrating birds each spring and fall. Keep your binoculars handy for everything from tiny hummingbirds to majestic herons.
Fun and Games
![USS Alabama Battleship Mobile, AL](https://www.gulfshores.com/sites/default/files/styles/single_column_image_medium/public/2023-05/uss_al_tf06052015_gms421c.jpg?itok=zxb8pbLo)
Local History
For the history expert, there are several Orange Beach Gulf Shores museums.Visit the historic Fort Morgan for historical tours or marvel at the massive antique ship at USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park.
![Waterville USA Gulf Shores, AL Slide](https://www.gulfshores.com/sites/default/files/styles/single_column_image_medium/public/2023-05/Waterville_cb_GMS%202017-0610.jpg?itok=P4D8TuiS)
Slides Rule
With names like Triple Dog Dare, Jet Stream and Screamin’ Demon, you know some serious water slides are waiting, and Waterville USA delivers with high-speed thrills. Slow it down on a lazy river, challenge the wave pool or channel your inner dude on a surfboard. Separate children’s areas include Wa Wa World, while landlubbers enjoy mini golf, a rollercoaster, go-karts and an Escape House.
![The Track Gulf Shores, AL](https://www.gulfshores.com/sites/default/files/styles/single_column_image_medium/public/2023-05/woody4_img_2613_1.jpg?itok=YCDoWzZb)
Fun and Games
Steer into excitement at The Track Recreation Center, featuring go-karting, bumper boat rides and the heart-stopping Skycoaster which simulates skydiving (but with a safety harness) and reaches speeds of 70 mph.
For kids and the young at heart, the sheer joy of jumping is multiplied at The Factory, whose indoor trampoline park covers 12,000 square feet. But there’s much more for those who came to play – trapezes, slides, foam pits, dodgeball, arcade games and flight simulators.
Groups and families up for a little friendly competition can tee off on one of many mini-golf courses in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.