10 Free Things to Do in Gulf Shores, Alabama

Gulf Shores, Alabama, is a popular vacation destination on the Gulf Coast of the United States. The area is known for its stunning white-sand beaches, clear blue waters, and laid-back atmosphere. There are plenty of activities in the area to keep visitors of all ages entertained, and many of them are free. From exploring the outdoors to discovering local culture, here are 10 free things to do in Gulf Shores, Alabama.

Visit Gulf State Park

Gulf State Park is the perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts. The park spans over 6,000 acres of coastal land, and visitors can explore the area on foot, by bike, or by boat. There are three miles of beaches, nature trails, fishing areas, and campgrounds. Visitors can also take part in educational programs, such as bird watching, guided hikes, and beach walks. Gulf State Park is the perfect place to explore the great outdoors.

The park also offers a variety of recreational activities, such as kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddle boarding. Visitors can also rent a beach chair or umbrella for a relaxing day in the sun. Whatever your outdoor preference is, Gulf State Park is sure to provide plenty of activities to keep you entertained.

The park is open year-round, and admission is free. However, there is a fee for camping and other activities.

Explore the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge

The Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge is a 7,000-acre refuge on the Gulf Coast of Alabama. This diverse area is home to over 300 species of birds, as well as other wildlife. Visitors can explore the refuge on foot, by bike, or by boat. There are several trails to explore, as well as observation decks and viewing areas. The refuge is the perfect spot for bird-watchers and nature lovers.

The refuge also offers a variety of educational programs and activities. Visitors can take part in guided hikes, bird-watching tours, and even a Junior Ranger program. The refuge is open year-round, and admission is free.

The refuge also has a variety of amenities, such as picnic areas, restrooms, and a gift shop. Visitors can also take part in wildlife photography tours.

Explore the Gulf Shores Beach

Gulf Shores has some of the most beautiful beaches in the United States. The white-sand beaches stretch for miles along the Gulf Coast, and they provide the perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. Visitors can also take part in beach volleyball, beachcombing, or even skimboarding. There are plenty of activities to keep visitors of all ages entertained.

The beach is open year-round, and admission is free. Visitors can also rent beach chairs and umbrellas for a relaxing day in the sun.

The beach also has a variety of amenities, such as restrooms, showers, and snack bars. Visitors can also take part in a variety of water sports, such as jet skiing, parasailing, and kayaking.

Attend a Festival or Event

Gulf Shores is home to a variety of festivals and events throughout the year. From music festivals to art shows, there is something for everyone. Some of the most popular events include the Shrimp Festival, the Hangout Music Festival, and the Oyster Cook-Off. These events are free to attend and provide a great way to experience the local culture.

The festivals and events are also a great way to experience local cuisine. Visitors can sample the area’s seafood specialties, such as shrimp, oysters, and crab. The festivals and events are also a great way to meet locals and make new friends.

The festivals and events are free to attend, but visitors should check the website for a full list of events and dates.

Visit the Gulf Shores Museum

The Gulf Shores Museum is the perfect spot for history buffs. The museum is housed in a historic building and features exhibits on the area’s history and culture. Visitors can learn about the area’s Native American history, its role in the Civil War, and its development as a resort town. The museum also features interactive exhibits, such as a virtual tour of the area’s beaches.

The museum also hosts a variety of events, such as lectures, film screenings, and workshops. Visitors can also take part in guided tours and other educational programs. The museum is open year-round, and admission is free.

Take a Self-Guided Tour of Historic Downtown

Downtown Gulf Shores is home to a variety of historic buildings and sites. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the area to learn about its past. The tour includes stops at historic buildings, such as the Baldwin County Courthouse and the Gulf Shores Hotel. Visitors can also learn about the area’s maritime history at the Old Navy Base. The tour is a great way to explore the area’s past.

The tour is free to take, but visitors should check the website for a full list of sites and dates.

The downtown area also has a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars. Visitors can explore the area to find unique souvenirs and sample the local cuisine.

Visit the Hangout

The Hangout is a popular beachfront bar and restaurant in Gulf Shores. The bar features live music, DJs, and other entertainment. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of signature cocktails and craft beers. The Hangout is the perfect spot to grab a drink and relax with friends.

The Hangout is open year-round, and admission is free. Visitors should also check the website for a full list of events and dates.

Take a Boat Tour

Gulf Shores is home to a variety of boat tours. Visitors can explore the area by boat and take in stunning views of the Gulf Coast. The boat tours offer a variety of activities, such as fishing, snorkeling, and dolphin watching. Visitors can also take part in educational programs, such as a guided tour of the area’s wildlife. The boat tours are a great way to explore the area from a different perspective.

The boat tours are free to take, but visitors should check the website for a full list of tours and dates.

Take a Hike

Gulf Shores is home to a variety of hiking trails. Visitors can explore the area’s forests, beaches, and marshes. The trails offer stunning views of the area’s natural beauty and provide the perfect spot for bird-watching. The trails are also a great way to get some exercise and take in the fresh air.

The trails are free to explore, but visitors should check the website for a full list of trails and dates.

Explore the Local Art Scene

Gulf Shores is home to a vibrant art scene. Visitors can explore the area’s galleries, studios, and museums to experience the local culture. The area is also home to a variety of festivals and events that celebrate art and culture. Visitors can also take part in art classes and workshops.

Most of the galleries and museums are free to visit, but visitors should check the website for a full list of events and dates.

Check Out the Local Farmers Market

Gulf Shores is home to a vibrant farmers market. The market is held every Saturday and offers a variety of locally grown produce, meats, cheeses, and more. Visitors can also sample the area’s specialty foods, such as shrimp and oysters. The farmers market is the perfect spot to pick up gifts and souvenirs.

The farmers market is free to visit, but visitors should check the website for a full list of vendors and dates.

Summary

Gulf Shores, Alabama, is the perfect spot for a beach vacation. The area offers plenty of activities to keep visitors of all ages entertained, and many of them are free. From exploring the outdoors to discovering local culture, visitors can find plenty of activities to enjoy. From visiting Gulf State Park to exploring the local art scene, there are plenty of free things to do in Gulf Shores, Alabama.