If you are looking for a break from the sand and surf of
Gulf Shores, Alabama, there are plenty of great day trip options in the
surrounding area. From state parks to historic landmarks, there is something
for everyone within a short drive of Gulf Shores. Here are five fantastic day
trips to consider on your next vacation.
1. Big Lagoon State Park in Perdido Key, Florida
30 minute drive from Gulf Shores
Located just over the state line in Florida, Big Lagoon
State Park is a beautiful and peaceful destination for a day trip. The park is
home to a variety of wildlife, including dolphins, sea turtles, and alligators.
Visitors can hike, fish, kayak, and enjoy stunning views of the lagoon and Gulf
of Mexico.
Address:
12301 Gulf Beach Hwy, Pensacola, FL 32507
Hours:
8am to 6pm daily
Admission:
$5.00 - $10.00 per vehicle, depends on number of occupants
2. USS Alabama War Ship Tour in Mobile, Alabama
1 hour drive from Gulf Shores
For a glimpse into America's military history, head to the
USS Alabama War Ship in nearby Mobile. This battleship served in World War II
and is open to the public for tours. Visitors can explore the decks, see the
guns up close, and learn about the brave men who served aboard the ship.
Address:
2703 Battleship Parkway | Mobile, AL 36602
Admission:
$15.00 or less per person, $4.00 parking fee
Summer Hours:
April-September
8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Winter Hours:
October – March
8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
3. Fairhope, Alabama
45 minute drive from Gulf Shores
Just a short drive from Gulf Shores, Fairhope is a charming
town with plenty of shops, restaurants, and art galleries to explore. Take a
stroll down the tree-lined streets and admire the historic homes, or head to
the pier for a beautiful view of Mobile Bay. See my complete post on Fairhope here.
4. Dauphin Island (Fort Morgan, Mobile Ferry, Fort Gains, Sea Lab)
35 minute drive + 40 minute ferry ride from Gulf Shores
Leave early morning to see all of these in one day.
Fort Morgan State Historic Site
Dauphin Island is a barrier island located just off the
coast of Alabama, and it is packed with history and natural beauty. Visit Fort
Morgan, a historic fort that played a key role in the Civil War, or take a
ferry across Mobile Bay to Fort Gains on the island. Do not miss the Dauphin
Island Sea Lab, a marine research facility that offers tours and educational
programs.
Address:
110 AL-180, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Hours:
Seven Days A Week
9AM-4:30PM
Admission:
Adult $8
Seniors/child $5
Mobile Bay Ferry
For a unique and scenic day trip, take a ride on the Mobile
Bay Ferry. This ferry service connects Dauphin Island to Fort Morgan, and the
trip offers stunning views of the bay and surrounding landscape. Keep your eyes
peeled for dolphins and other wildlife along the way.
Address:
Fort Morgan Side
110 AL-180, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Dauphin Island Side:
111 Bienville Blvd., Dauphin Island, AL 36528
Schedule:
Varies, check here
Fees:
Regular automobile and driver is $16 + $5 for each
passenger.
Fort Gaines
Established in 1821, Fort Gaines known is for its role in the Battle of Mobile Bay during the American Civil War.
Address:
51 Bienville Blvd, Dauphin Island, AL 36528
Hours:
9AM – 5 PM daily
Admission:
Children (Ages 5 -12) are $5.00
Adults (Ages 13+) are $9.00
Admission:
Dauphin Island Sea Lab Estuarium
Dauphin Island Sea Lab Estuarium is an educational public aquarium exhibiting the four key habitats of coastal Alabama.
Address:
102 Bienville Blvd, Dauphin Island, AL 36528
Hours vary from winter and summer.
Check here https://www.disl.org/estuarium
$6 - $12
Dauphin Island
At only 14 miles long and 2 miles wide, Dauphin Island lays
at the entrance of Mobile Bay.
This is a great place to enjoy beaches without many people
on them.
Bienville Beach (1501 Bienville Blvd)
West End Public Beach (Drive west on Bienville Blvd to the
very end)
5. Pensacola, Florida Snorkeling & Fort Tour
45 minute drive from Gulf Shores
Escambia County Bay Snorkel Reef
Located approximately 50 ft. off shore in Park West, just
before the entrance of Fort Pickens. Great for beginner snorkeler.
Address:
Park West, Gulf Breeze, FL 32561
Fort Pickens State Park
This 1834 pentagonal historic United States military fort is
located at the west end of Santa Rosa Island. It is named after American
Revolutionary War hero Andrew Pickens.
After visiting the fort, enjoy some of the 10 miles of gulf
and bay beaches leading to the fort. It's also one of the few places in the
Pensacola area to find seashells.
Address:
1400 Fort Pickens Rd, Pensacola Beach, FL 32561
Hours:
March 1 - October 31: 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. (last entry at
8:00 p.m.)
November 1 - February 28: 5:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Hours:
Historic Fort: 8:00 a.m. to sunset
Admission:
Per person (pedestrian, cyclist, etc.)
............................$15
Motorcycle....................................................................$20
Private vehicle (capacity <15)
.......................................$25
Happy Travels!
Happy Travels!