Looking for fun ways to spend your summer vacation on the Alabama Gulf Coast? We’ve got you covered! From nature walks and parasailing adventures, to amusement parks and more, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
Make some new friends at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, “The Little Zoo That Grew,” when you make a trip to Gulf Shores. This popular attraction is home to more than 100 species of wildlife, including nearly two dozen species of critically endangered, endangered, vulnerable, and near-threatened species.
Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo FB Page
Whether you’re a family looking for adventure or a couple wanting to take a leisurely stroll through the big cat exhibit, you’ll never get bored.
You can also get up close and personal with their Animal Encounters and hang out with the lemurs, kangaroos, and sloths. Talk about hands-on learning! It’s easy to see why The Gulf Coast Zoo was voted the #1 Zoo in Alabama for two years running!
OWA
One of the newest additions to the state and the Alabama Gulf Coast is definitely making a splash in Foley! OWA has everything from roller coasters, amusement park rides, and a splash pad, to a downtown shopping and entertainment area.
OWA FB Page
In early 2021, the park also added the Aqua Play and Wake Park—the first of their kind in Coastal Alabama—where kids can wakeboard, wakeskate, kneeboard, water ski or go tubing in a safe and controlled environment.
The Park at Owa features more than 20 thrilling rides, including classic ones the littlest of thrill-seekers will love; family-friendly rides that mom and dad will enjoy, too; and thrill rides for the extra adventurous.
When it’s time to take a break from all the thrilling fun, head over to the park’s downtown area, filled with a wide variety of shops and restaurants. Adults can indulge in moonshine tastings at Murder Creek Distillery, while kids test their game skills in the Groovy Goat arcade. Air hockey, anyone?
Graham Creek Nature Preserve
For the outdoor enthusiast, Foley’s Graham Creek Nature Preserve is the perfect place for getting back to nature. With almost 500 acres of land—including forests, tidal marshes, and savannahs—there’s plenty of terrain to explore.
Graham Creek Nature Preserve FB Page
The nature preserve also has a canoe and kayak launch on site where paddlers can set out for Wolf Bay, and there’s also a bike trail, cross country trail, and walking trail for cyclists and hikers.
If you aren’t one who likes to explore as much and are looking to stay in one area, there is still plenty for you to do. The preserve boasts three disc golf courses and various picnic spots and areas for bird-watching.
The preserve’s expansive property is not only great for outdoor exploration, but for also hosting special events at the on-site pavilion and Interpretive Center. So next time you’re planning a wedding, consider taking a more “natural” route.
Gulf State Park
Gulf State Park, located in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, is another fan-favorite way to spend the day. Rent a bike or book a Segway tour and make your way around the 6,150-acre outdoor destination.
Gulf State Park FB Page
For a fun time out on the water, head to Lake Shelby, a freshwater lake that lies in the center of Gulf State Park that’s ideal for fishing, swimming, and boating. Don’t worry about leaving your furry friends at home either, because the park is pet-friendly and Fido can enjoy swimming, too.
Love to fish? The state park's fishing pier is a hot spot for beginning and seasoned anglers alike. Cast a line and reel in a wide variety of species, including Sheepshead, Red Drum, Spanish Mackerel, Flounder, Florida Pompano, Cobia, King Mackerel, and more.
Waterville USA
Beat the heat on your next visit with a trip to Waterville USA in Gulf Shores. Located less than a mile from the beach, it’s hard to top this family-fun attraction with its escape rooms, arcade, countless water rides, and more!
Waterville USA FB Page
Test your skills on the Flowrider, a simulated surfing attraction, or see who comes in first place when you compete against others to make it down the Dune Racer, a six-lane mat racer slide.
While the kids are playing, take some time to relax in the water park’s Cabana Cove. The private cabanas can be rented and have a server available on site to take your food and drink order. Each cabana seats up to six people and includes towels you can take back home.
Waterville USA is all about having fun and making the most out of your vacation, so don’t miss out on this local spot—start planning your next visit today.
Tanger Outlets
A day of shopping is never a bad idea, and you can’t beat the Tanger Outlets in Foley! As one of the first stops visitors make on their way down to the beaches of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, shopping Tanger Outlets has always been considered a fun activity, rain or shine.
Tanger Outlets FB Page
Whether you’re shopping for the kids, looking for homeware, or scoping out a good place to eat, you’ll find it here. People from all over the country flock to the outdoor shopping center year after year for its casual vibe, great deals, and wide array of shopping and dining options.
Whatever your interests, hobbies, or favorite pastimes may be, the Alabama Gulf Coast offers a range of fun activities and attractions for you and your family to enjoy to guarantee a memorable summer vacation.