Things to Do in Gulf Shores

Top 10 Things To Do in Gulf Shores, Alabama on a Family Vacation

If you're planning a family trip to Gulf Shores, Alabama, there is much more than just beach time. Families can mix outdoor adventures, wildlife, water parks, history, and entertainment throughout the week. Gulf Shores and nearby Orange Beach offer activities for toddlers, teens, and adults alike.

• Gulf State Park

  Address: 20115 State Park Rd, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
  What it's about: One of the top family attractions on the Alabama coast. Families can bike over 28 miles of scenic trails, kayak on Lake Shelby, enjoy nature programs, visit playgrounds, and fish from the pier. Great for spotting alligators, birds, and coastal wildlife.

• Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

  Address: 20499 Oak Rd E, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
  What it's about: Known as "The Little Zoo That Could," this zoo offers close-up animal experiences including giraffe feedings and encounters with kangaroos, reptiles, lions, and monkeys. A great half-day family activity.

• The Track Family Fun Park

  Address: 3200 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
  What it's about: Go-karts, mini golf, bumper boats, arcade games, rides, and the famous elevated Wild Woody track. Kids and parents can easily spend several hours here.

• Waterville USA

  Address: 906 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
  What it's about: Family water park featuring lazy rivers, wave pools, waterslides, kid zones, escape rooms, and arcade attractions. Excellent for hot summer afternoons.

• Gulf Shores Public Beach

  Address: 101 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
  What it's about: White quartz sand, gentle surf, volleyball courts, and family-friendly beach areas. Perfect for sandcastle building, swimming, shell collecting, and sunset walks.

• Historic Fort Morgan

  Address: 110 AL-180, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
  What it's about: Explore tunnels, cannons, military fortifications, and Civil War history. Kids enjoy climbing through the fort and seeing Mobile Bay views.

• The Wharf

  Address: 23101 Canal Rd, Orange Beach, AL 36561
  What it's about: Features shopping, restaurants, entertainment, nightly light shows, and one of the Southeast's tallest Ferris wheels. Families love visiting after dinner for ice cream and evening activities.

• Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge

  Address: 12295 State Highway 180, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
  What it's about: Nature trails, wildlife viewing, bird watching, and coastal ecosystems. Families can spot sea turtles, migratory birds, and native wildlife.

• Cetacean Cruises Dolphin Tours

  Address: 4673 Wharf Pkwy W, Orange Beach, AL 36561
  What it's about: One of the area's most popular family excursions. Kids love seeing dolphins swimming beside the boat while learning about marine life.

• OWA Parks & Resort

  Address: 1501 S OWA Blvd, Foley, AL 36535
  What it's about: Located minutes from Gulf Shores, OWA combines amusement park rides, roller coasters, shopping, restaurants, and family entertainment. Great option for a non-beach day.

These attractions create an ideal Gulf Shores family itinerary: beach days, wildlife, water fun, outdoor adventures, and evening entertainment without running out of things to do.