Spend a Day Off the Beach in Historic Downtown Mobile
Take a two-hour road trip for a day filled with history, science and exquisite cuisine.
While our sugar-white sand beaches can be hard to tear yourself away from, it’s nice to get a break from the sun every now and again. We suggest taking a short drive to nearby Mobile to experience their one-of-a-kind attractions.
Here are some of our favorite things to do in historic downtown Mobile.
Museums and Attractions
Did you know that Mobile is the original home of Mardi Gras? You’ll learn all about the unique history of the Gulf Coast’s favorite holiday at the Mobile Carnival Museum. Here you’ll discover photographs that date back to 1866 and the majestic crowns and dresses of past queens of Carnival. The kids can enjoy a Mardi Gras float and costumes to experience what it’s like to be ‘behind the mask.’
The city of Mobile is home to a vibrant history that’s on full display at the History Museum of Mobile. Located in the 1857 Old City Hall National Historic Landmark, the museum houses more than 90,000 artifacts, including a baseball signed by the legendary Hank Aaron and a cannon from the CSS Alabama. The museum offers several permanent exhibits as well as special exhibits that rotate throughout the year.
Colonial Fort Conde
Colonial Fort Conde sits on the historic fort site built in the early 1700s. Known as the entry point to Mobile, it has guarded the city for over 100 years. This replica of the original fort and castle opened in 1976. Both kids and history buffs will enjoy checking out this historic spot.
GulfQuest Maritime Museum
GulfQuest is the world’s first museum dedicated to the rich maritime traditions found on the Gulf Coast. The interactive museum has nearly 100 exhibits, simulators, theaters and displays. With plenty of hands-on experiences, this is a fantastic place to bring the kids to help them understand and appreciate the national treasure that is the Gulf of Mexico.
USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park
Dive into history and explore the “Mighty A” at Battleship Memorial Park. Located on the Causeway, the roadway leading to downtown Mobile, the park is a testament of honor and respect for those who have served in the United States military. Visitors can explore the USS Alabama (a WWII battleship), the USS Drum submarine, more than 25 military aircraft and several war memorials.
Exploreum Science Center
Voted one of Alabama’s top attractions, the Exploreum Science Center offers something for visitors of all ages. The center boasts more than 150 interactive exhibits, educational IMAX films and hands-on programming for school groups and families. If your family is all about science, this is the spot for you!
Outdoor Adventures
In nearby Theodore, Ala., a 65-acre garden offers a variety of blooms and an immense amount of beauty no matter what day or season you choose to visit. The gardens and grounds include the 1935 home of Walter and Bessie Bellingrath. Visitors can tour the home to learn more about the gardens and the family that created them. It’s the perfect stop for floral fanatics, nature lovers and history buffs alike.
Dauphin Island
If you’d prefer a shorter day trip to Mobile, consider hopping aboard the Mobile Bay Ferry to spend the day on Dauphin Island. Departing Fort Morgan at varying times throughout the day, your family can drive onto the ferry to enjoy one of the destination’s most scenic commutes. Then, once you’re on the island, there is much to be explored, including Fort Gaines, the Audubon Bird Sanctuary and The Estuarium at The Dauphin Island Sea Lab.
Planning your next trip to the Alabama Gulf Coast? Mobile offers many unique and fun attractions. It's just a short drive away from our beaches, and for many, is a great place to stop on your way to the beach.
