Are you visiting us on the Gulf Coast for your Spring vacation? While our beautiful, white-sand beaches may be what got you here, there are plenty of other things to do and places to see on the Gulf. If you are thinking of doing something out of the box while on your vacay, check out our 4 favorite ways to day trip on the Gulf Coast! With Gulf Shores and Orange Beach as your home base, daytripping to surrounding areas is a breeze.
1. By Car
Hop in the car and head toward our neighboring town of Pensacola, Florida to the National Naval Aviation Museum, featuring more than 150 vintage aircrafts. If the Blue Angels are in town the same time as you are, you might even get to catch their spectacular aerial show!
Head the other direction towards Mobile, Alabama and the attractions keep coming! Explore the USS Alabama, awarded 9 battle stars for her service and becoming a National Historic Landmark in Mobile. You can also visit the rest of Battleship Memorial Park, the 65-acre estate garden and museum Bellingrath Gardens and Home, and GulfQuest National Maritime Museum, offering all things aquatic - from marine archaeology to shipwrecks and hurricanes.
2. By Bike
For more "go with the flow" type of travelers, a bike journey on the coast might just be your perfect fit! Begin your journey at the beautiful Fairhope Pier, and travel the Eastern Shore Bike Trail - taking you from the pier to Weeks Bay. You'll get to pass lots of historic sites and get a fantastic view of Mobile Bay as you ride. Stop along the way to catch the dreamiest of waterfront views!
3. By Foot
While walking along the beach is an obvious favorite, you can also travel the seven trails of the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores. Discover beautiful views and unique wildlife through over 15 miles of winding trails. This picture-perfect journey is one you're sure to love! (You can also travel the trails by bike if that's more your style.)
4. By Water
Watersports are a hugh fan-fave on the Gulf - but we are talking about a larger vessel here. From Gulf Shores, you can hope on the ferry to Dauphin Island where you can visit the Dauphin Island Sea Lab! The whole family will love the interactive exhibits like the stingray touch pool and over 31 aquariums. As an added bonus, the ferry even travels between Fort Morgan and Fort Gaines, treating you to beautiful views of the two forts that guard Mobile Bay.
So, which way do you plan to day trip on the coast this Spring? Book your stay with us today!