10 Things
To do with Teens
Alabama’s beaches are the perfect destination for a family vacation. With beautiful beaches, exciting outdoor adventures and unique attractions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy – even teenagers. From thrills and one-of-a-kind activities to delicious dining, here are a few things teens will enjoy while visiting Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.
1. Zip Around The Track
If your teenager is searching for adrenaline-pumping fun, The Track in Gulf Shores is the place for them. They’ll race across the multiple go-karts courses, including the Wild Woody, a three-and-a-half-story winding wooden track. After zipping around the park, they'll want to check out the sky coaster and take in the views from 110 feet above. If thrills aren’t your teen’s style, they can head inside to the arcade and enjoy an array of classic and interactive games.
2. Plan an Insta-Worthy Photo Op
Snap a pic and shoot a few Tik Toks at Cool Shots Selfie Museum at The Wharf in Orange Beach. Inside this 4,900 square-foot spot, your teen will discover over 50 unique and eye-catching backdrops perfect for an Instagram-worthy post.
3. Check out the Views from Above
Alabama’s beaches look exquisite from the ground but wait until you see them from above. Have your kids take a ride in the sky with Hang Ten Helicopters or Lost Bay Helicopters to get an amazing aerial view of the area. The highly skilled pilots will point out notable spots during your tour and ensure you and your family have a safe and memorable ride.
4. Dine Tiki-Style by the Water
If you’ve ever dreamed of hanging out inside a tiki hut, here’s your chance! The Tiki Bar at Safe Harbor Sportsman Marina in Orange Beach offers guests incredible views and open-air dining alongside its tasty eats. Play a game of cornhole and listen to the tunes from local musicians as you enjoy a burger or wings. This cool restaurant also serves non-alcoholic drinks like virgin daiquiris and piña Coladas, so teenagers can sip on a frozen treat while taking in the laid-back atmosphere.
5. Have Big Fun at Mini Golf
Mini golf is a quintessential vacation activity, especially at the beach, and Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are home to numerous courses to test your and your teen's skills. Make your way across waterfalls, streams, bridges, and more challenges as you putt-putt through the courses around the beach. If your gang wants to take their mini golfing up a notch, visit Jurassic Golf in Gulf Shores and experience its 5,000 square feet of glow-in-the-dark fun.
6. Find Thrills at OWA
A short drive to Foley will lead you to Tropic Falls at OWA, which features an award-winning theme park and the region's largest indoor water park. Both the theme park and waterpark include thrilling rides perfect for those looking for heart-racing fun. Your teen will love throwing their hands in the air as they zoom up and down on the Rollin’ Thunder roller coaster and holding onto their tube as they twist and turn on the Forbidden Falls slide. Your family will have a blast at both of these exciting parks.
7. Weave through Gulf State Park on a Segway
The beautiful Gulf State Park lies in both Gulf Shores and Orange Beach and is an outdoor paradise filled with local wildlife, lakes, trails, and more. With over 28 miles of trails, making your way through the entire park can be tricky. One of the best ways to explore the park is with a guided tour from Coastal Segway Adventures. These two-hour tours allow you to easily cruise through the park and fit in lots of sightseeing. If your family has never ridden a Segway, don’t worry; each session begins with a riding lesson.
8. Shop, Eat, & Play at The Wharf
The Wharf in Orange Beach is the ultimate spot for all things entertainment. Have your teens immerse themselves into the vibrant gaming world at Outer Limits VR, then play a game of laser tag or bazooka ball at Arena Next Level Arcade. Is your teen searching for excitement? Civil Axe Throwing and Breakout Games provide electrifying fun. After that, grab a delicious powdered sugar-covered treat at Mo’Bay Beignet or a slice (or two) of homemade fudge at Kilwins. On top of all of the unique attractions at The Wharf, there are plenty of fantastic shops and restaurants to keep the fun going.
9. Hang Out at The Hangout
There’s no better place to grab a bite to eat and hang out than The Hangout in Gulf Shores. This beachfront restaurant combines delicious food, great entertainment, and fabulous views to create the perfect atmosphere for chilling out and dining. Running through the bubbles from the foam machine, dancing on top of the tables, and snapping a picture in front of the Shaka are just a few of the unique things to do at this Gulf Shores staple.
10. Ride the Waves with Watersports
Your family came to the beach to see the water and the best way to do that is by trying your hand at one or a few watersports. Whip through the waves on a Jet ski or paddle through the back bays on a kayak. If your teenagers prefer to be in the air rather than the water, go parasailing and feel the rush of the coastal wind brush over them as they soar over the Gulf. You and your teen will discover sensational and serene water activities on Alabama’s beaches.
Check out all the exciting activities and remarkable attractions in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach for more ideas!
