With a coastal city like Gulf Shores, the main attraction many come to town for is naturally the beach. But Gulf Shores has so much more to it than water sports and seafood. There are an abundance of unique activities and attractions in Gulf Shore that you may not have considered trying. This blog will explain what they are. The results might surprise you since they range from animal attractions to live music. One thing’s for sure, visiting Gulf Shores is never boring! Choosing to stay at a vacation rental from Alabama Beach Vacation Rentals will keep you close to these unique attractions and so much more. Let’s get into some of the best hidden gems of Gulf Shores.
Walk on the Wild Side at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
Did you know Alabama even had a zoo? It’s affectionately called the “Little Zoo That Could.” This zoo is home to over 500 animals from various species, including big cats, giraffes, lemurs and capybaras! One of the highlights of the zoo are the premium experiences, where you can get up close and personal with your favorite animals, feed them, pet them and even train them. You can have a hands-on course on what it’s like to be a zookeeper for a day! The zoo is one of those unique attractions that you don’t mind spending an afternoon at. Don’t miss it!
Visit Alligator Alley
The wilderness walk continues with our next unique attraction you didn’t think to try. Would you ever get up close and personal with an alligator? Our guess is probably not. But at Alligator Alley it’s just the thing to do! You can take a guided tour to safely admire these amazing reptiles. While alligators are the star of the show there are other animals that call this refuge home. The knowledgeable staff at Alligator Alley will teach you all about the ecology of the area and what special role alligators play in the ecosystem of Gulf Shores. Alligator Alley is a must-see when visiting Gulf Shores.
Hike the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail
Are you sensing a theme here? There are so many unique activities you didn’t think to try in Gulf Shores that are outside! If you love hiking, then you’ll appreciate our next activity: hiking the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail. This trail system consists of 26 trails that make up 28 miles of pathways. As you walk along the trail, you’ll find that this trail weaves through pine forests, wetlands, and coastal sands. The Backcountry Trail is also bike-friendly, perfect for exploring on two wheels if you prefer.
Enjoy the Show at The Hangout
Our next unique attraction to see a live show at The Hangout. Many come here to enjoy live music, eat great food, and enjoy the vibes. The best part is that the concerts are free and also include beach games and other fun events throughout the year. Eat your share of yummy seafood, sip cocktails and dance the night away. It’s always a party at the Hangout! If you’re lucky enough to be in town during one of their special events, you’re sure to have a great time.
Staying with Alabama Beach Vacation Rentals
Now that you know which unique activities and attractions to add to your Gulf Shores itinerary, you need a home base to keep you central to the action. Alabama Beach Vacation rentals can help with that! Their selection of rentals is conveniently located near the best Gulf Shores adventures including these unique activities and attractions.
Comfortable and Inviting Interiors
Each vacation rental from Alabama Beach Vacation Rentals is designed for maximum comfort. It’s supposed to feel like home, but better. Come lounge in the living room after a day full of sightseeing. The couches are perfect for kicking back and relaxing with a movie and your family by your side. When you’re not eating the delicious food served up at a variety of Gulf Shores restaurants, you’ll appreciate being able to cook food in your own full kitchen. Many properties also feature balconies or decks. These spots are perfect for relaxing outside in the sunshine.
Luxury Amenities
Vacation rentals from Alabama Beach Vacation Rentals come with all the amenities that make your vacation easier. Do you like sticking to your fitness routine while on vacation? Then be sure to reserve a rental with a fitness room and sauna! If you being active outside is more your speed, some properties are nearby golf courses or tennis courts, offering additional ways to enjoy your stay in Gulf Shores. And who wouldn’t appreciate having beach access, where you can walk to the shore right outside your rental without having to drive anywhere. That’s real luxury!
Book Your Gulf Shores Getaway Today
Gulf Shores has so many unique attractions and activities to explore, offering something unique for every traveler. Whatever you’re into, you can find something to enjoy here in Gulf Shores. But don’t just take our word for it. Come see these attractions and much more by booking a vacation rental with Alabama Beach Vacation Rentals today!
Spring, and Easter, are just around the corner. If you’re looking to take a break with friends or family this year, Alabama and its many beach towns offers a breath of fresh Gulf air and a unique locale. This includes the beach towns of Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan, just to name a few. You’ll find plenty of fun and exciting Easter and year-round Easter activities to create a one-of-a-kind Easter trip for you and your loved ones!
Beach Time
You’ve planned plenty of beach time just by coming to a beach destination. Fill your days with activities like laying out and sunbathing, plant a beach umbrella and spread out a blanket and read or have a picnic, swim in the Gulf, or take a run or walk on the beach for a change in your exercise routine. Pump up the adrenaline with activities like parasailing, SCUBA diving, snorkeling, deep sea fishing, and more!
Easter Dinner
Take a vacation from preparing the elaborate holiday meal and let a professional chef at one of the many delicious area restaurants make the feast. There are various restaurants in the area that will be serving up the traditional Easter meal in addition to their normal fare. Contact your restaurant of choice to find out the details like date, time, reservations, and whether they allow pick up or delivery of the special meal.
Easter Services
Vacation doesn’t mean taking a vacation from the celebration of the most important day of your trip. The churches of Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, Fort Morgan, and the surrounding area are hosting services in observance of the day. Contact your preferred place of worship and inquire about dates, times, and locations of services, as some may hold beachfront services and services at other locations.
Fort Morgan Road Trail
Lace up your hiking shoes, grab a bottle of water and your sun gear, and head out. The 5.6-mile Fort Morgan Road Trail is asphalt and starts just outside the western border of Gulf State Park and stretches west through Gulf Shores. The path runs parallel to Fort Morgan Road/Highway 180, through tree-lined areas and neighborhoods, ending at the Peninsula Golf Club. The trail is an easy hike or bike, as it’s mostly a flat asphalt surface, but the eastern end of the trail has only a few gentle climbs – making it easy for groups of all skill levels to enjoy. Add some difficulty when you continue on through Gulf State Park’s Hugh Branyon Backcountry Trails.
The Wharf
Head to the official Entertainment District of Orange Beach this Easter. There are hundreds of family-friendly events throughout the year, including Easter. Cure your hunger or score some souvenirs in the many shops and restaurants or take a ride on one of the Southeast’s largest Ferris wheels!
Gulf Shores Museum
If you didn’t know much about Gulf Shores and the surrounding area before you arrived, make a stop at the museum. The Gulf Shores Museum is located in a house that dates back to before World War II and stood as the beach house of Valerie Cole’s family from Mobile. The house was originally built in West Beach, but the family donated the structure, and it was moved from that original location to its current home after Hurricane Frederic in 1979. The museum’s many permanent and temporary exhibits tell the story of Gulf Shores’ history and offers various programs and activities for all ages and many interests throughout the year.
Spa Day
Get some well-deserved and much-needed R&R during your Easter respite to the area. There are several spas throughout Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, and Fort Morgan that are ready to help you make that total relaxation a reality this Easter. Choose from an array of services like mani/pedis, body wraps or scrubs, scalp treatments, and much more. Some spas even offer special just-for-men services that pamper them in the ways they need most.
Plan an Easter Getaway
When you and book an Easter getaway with Alabama Beach Vacation Rentals, you won’t be short on amazing activities to fill your time this Easter. Enjoy the water, lounge around your rental, or experience the myriad of Easter and other activities available to help build a vacation that is uniquely yours with memories to last a lifetime. For an intimate stay, choose a one-bedroom unit, or bring a larger group and spoil everyone this Easter when you book a four-bedroom unit. Savor the taste of home when you prepare a home-cooked meal, from daily meals to the elaborate Easter dinner, in the unit’s fully equipped kitchen. Spread out in spacious living areas and private outdoor spaces like patios and balconies. Unwind in your own private bedroom or gather some snacks and enjoy your favorite movie or TV show together on a flat screen TV.
Contact us today to book an Easter trip to remember for a lifetime!