Day trips

Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Day Trips

When you’re ready for a little more action, Gulf Shores’ parks, attractions and restaurants are roughly 14 miles east.

Head east on Highway 180 (Fort Morgan Road) to Highway 59: about 14 miles to the heart of Gulf Shores.

Fort Morgan guide

Gulf State Park

Alabama’s southernmost state park sits between Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, with beaches, lakes, a nature center and a butterfly garden.

About 28 miles of paved trails for biking and walking through coastal forest, marsh and dunes.

One of the longest fishing piers on the Gulf, great for spotting pelicans and dolphins.

Fort Morgan guide

A 25-acre zoo just north of the beaches, with big cats, bears, a reptile house and a petting zoo.

A water park and amusement park in Gulf Shores; the water park runs in summer.

Orange Beach’s entertainment district with a giant Ferris wheel, marina, movie theater, shopping and a concert amphitheater.

A theme park and indoor water park in Foley, good for a rainy day.

Fort Morgan guide

The beachfront Hangout at the public beach is a Gulf Shores institution for casual food, drinks and live music.

Lucy Buffett’s open-air restaurant on the Intracoastal Waterway, with seafood, live music and a sandy play area for kids.

Pets aren’t allowed on Gulf Shores or Orange Beach public beaches; save beach time with your pup for Fort Morgan.

Tips

Traffic on Highway 59 and the Beach Express can be heavy on summer Saturdays; plan around check-in day.
Check attraction hours before you go; many run shorter seasons in fall and winter.

Hours, prices and schedules change. Check the official source before you go: Visit Gulf Shores & Orange Beach.

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Sleeps 12 · 3 king suites · private hot tub · a short walk to the private beach.