10 Fun Family Activities in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach

April 1, 2022

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?

This list will help make this year’s vacation planning easy with our ten fun family activities in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.

Take a Course in Sandcastle Building

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!

Get a Bird’s Eye View of the Area

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.

Bike the Trails

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!

Meet Some Wild Friends

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!

Explore Historic Fort Morgan

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.

Explore the Water by Paddleboard

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.

Take a Dolphin Cruise

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!

Hit the Mini-Golf Course

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.

Fly Over the Beach

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.

Find Speed, Thrills, and Family Fun

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.