Gulf Shores

Gulf Shores, Alabama, United States

At the top of everyone’s planning-for-vacation list comes the question—how can I entertain everyone in the family, from toddlers to teens? Alabama’s Beaches are the perfect spot for a family vacay because there is something for every age and stage.

3900 Bayou Rd
Orange Beach, AL

From water activities and nature adventures to competitive attractions and animal encounters, your family will have a blast in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.

East Gulf Place

Gulf Shores, Alabama, United States

You’re bound to hit the beach a few times during your visit and make a few sandcastles. While you’re playing in the sand, take a lesson from the pros at Sand Castle University and learn how to craft the perfect sculptures. All ages and skill levels are welcome to this unique experience that helps everyone become an expert in this beach pastime. Sand Castle University will provide all the equipment and expertise needed and every class includes a free time-lapse video of your group’s activity. Hop out of your beach chair and dig your hands and feet in the sand!

23101 Canal Rd
Orange Beach, AL

The Ferris Wheel at The Wharf is a great spot for the entire family. Both kids and adults will enjoy the view from atop one of the largest Ferris Wheels in the southeast. Check it out at night to admire the dazzling lights of the Ferris Wheel.

20115 State Park Rd
Gulf Shores, AL

Biking is a popular pastime for everyone who visits our area and is an ideal activity for the whole family. Gulf State Park features more than 28 miles of trails that run throughout both beach towns and offers fantastic views. From the beach to the woods, you’ll explore areas off the beaten path when you ride your bike in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. You can rent bikes for free with our bike share program or bring your own. Grab the family and hit the trails!

20499 Oak Rd E
Gulf Shores, AL

Load up the whole gang and head to the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo where you can get up-close-and-personal with over 118 species of animals. Stroll through over 25-acres of exhibits and learn what the animals eat, where they live and how they interact. You can even hold and play with some of the creatures with the zoo’s animal encounters. If you’ve ever wanted to feed a giraffe or hold a lemur, this is the place for you and your family!

110 AL-180
Gulf Shores, AL

If you have a history buff in your family or kids that love to explore, Historic Fort Morgan is the place to bring your crew. This third system masonry fort was built in 1834 and played an important role in several wars, including the Battle of Mobile Bay during the Civil War. Your family will love checking out the barracks, tunnels, bowyer and more of the Fort’s features. Get ready to travel back in time and discover this historic spot.

Gulf Shores, AL

Paddle boarding is a great way to experience the beautiful waters of the Coast. Explore the calm inland waters of the area such as Lake Shelby in Gulf State Park. Older children will love paddling through the area as well as adults.

24565 Perdido Beach Blvd
Orange Beach, AL

Whether your family is competitive or just loves to play, they’ll have a blast at Fat Daddy’s. This giant arcade has over 80 games, including traditional arcade favorites, claw machines, shooting and racing games, dueling basketball hoops, interactive action games, and lots more. It’s a fantastic spot to cool off during the warmer months or escape the rain.

3190 Airport Dr
Gulf Shores, AL

Soar above the shore and get an aerial view of the destination with a helicopter tour. This unique experience offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to view the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach area from above. Your experienced pilot will point out noteworthy spots in the area during your trip. Choose from Lost Bay Helicopters, Hang Ten Helicopters, BeachFlight Aviation or Aeropro LLC and get ready for a memorable ride.

4673 Wharf Pkwy W
Orange Beach, AL

Create family memories that will live forever by taking a dolphin cruise. The guide of your excursion will take you and your family to spots where these friendly creatures hang out. They’ll also tell you all about the lives of the dolphins who live on the Gulf Coast. You’ll watch as the dolphins pop out of the water to say hello. Be sure to take your phone or camera so you can snap some pictures!

3201 Gulf Shores Pkwy
Gulf Shores, AL

Putt-putt is a perfect family activity, and there’s no shortage of mini-golf spots on Alabama’s beaches! Each of these courses offer unique experiences and features like arcades, ice cream shops, and laser tag. Bring the family and play a round or two of mini-golf.

906 Gulf Shores Pkwy
Gulf Shores, AL

Get wet and wild at Waterville USA. This family-friendly attraction has been a destination staple for almost 40 years. Waterville boasts a vast waterpark, a mini golf course, go-karts, escape rooms, and an impressive arcade with a Top Golf simulator and bowling lanes. Inside the waterpark, you’ll find thrilling slides, a lazy river, a wave pool, water playgrounds, and a surf simulator, the perfect ways to keep cool during the summer.

27075 Perdido Beach Boulevard
Orange Beach, AL

You don’t have to own a boat to cruise the Gulf. With a sailing adventure, you can glide across our gorgeous waterways and take in the sights from offshores. These spacious sailboats offer plenty of room to sunbathe and relax in the coastal breeze. While out, you’ll have the opportunity to see marine life like dolphins. Most sailing tours allow you to bring snacks and drinks onboard so you can enjoy a picnic on the water.

3200 Gulf Shores Pkwy
Gulf Shores, AL

The Track Family Fun Park is a staple for many of those who come to Alabama’s beaches because there is fun for all ages! Here you’ll find thrill rides like the Skycoaster and Spinning Coaster as well as family favorite activities like mini-golf, bumper boats and an arcade. The Track’s most popular attraction is its multi-level go-kart track, where drivers race up three and a half stories and circle back down again ending with an exciting drop! Whether you’re looking for hair-raising excitement or classic family fun, you’ll find it at The Track.

Orange Beach

Orange Beach, Alabama, United States

Ready for family-friendly fun? Start planning your vacation to Alabamas's Beaches.