Get Away to the Alabama Gulf Coast

If you're looking for a great family vacation destination, consider one (or more) of the great places along the Alabama Gulf Coast.

From the white sand beaches of Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, and Dauphin Island to the historical beauty of the city of Mobile and surrounding towns and communities, southern Alabama is a great place to travel any time of the year.

If you like the idea of spending your vacation at a beach resort community, consider traveling to Orange Beach or Gulf Shores, both located in south Baldwin County. These Gulf of Mexico beaches are among the most beautiful you'll find anywhere, and you can enjoy all types of water-related activities.

You'll find all kinds of accommodations in these communities, ranging from rental beach homes and condominiums to hotel and motel rooms and campsites. There are plenty of great seafood (and other types) of restaurants, as well as fun activities (like the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo and Waterville, USA) and interesting places to shop.

If you prefer a less hectic beach experience, consider Dauphin Island, located in Mobile County. Also located on the Gulf of Mexico, "The Island" (as locals call it) is a great way to get away from it all and spend time enjoying the waterfront. There are beach houses and condos are available for rent here, as well as a few places to enjoy tent and RV camping.

\Mobile, Alabama is a beautiful southern city with a rich history that you can experience firsthand by viewing the amazing architecture in the historic districts and visiting various historically significant attractions, including Battleship Memorial Park and Bellingrath Gardens and Home.

Battleship Memorial Park

At Battleship Memorial Park, you can walk in the footsteps of soldiers who fought in World War II onboard the Battleship U.S.S. Alabama and submarine U.S.S. Drum. You can also view an impressive collection of military aircraft from various periods throughout history.

Bellingrath Gardens and Home

Visit the unique beauty of Bellingrath Gardens and Home. The estate sits on 65 waterfront acres and is home to some of the most beautiful scenery you'll find anywhere in the Deep South. Depending on the time of year you visit, you may have an opportunity to view blooming azaleas, camellias, roses, and much more. During December, the property is transformed into a holiday wonderland for the "Magic Christmas in Lights" event.

The home itself is not to be missed. Built in 1935, the dwelling is more than 10,000 square feet and provides a unique look at southern architecture and décor from decades gone by. While you are there, consider taking a water tour of the area onboard the Southern Belle River cruiser docked behind the home (in season).

There are many other great activities and attractions to enjoy along the Alabama Gulf Coast. A selection of the many terrific things to do and places to visit include:

• American Sport Art Museum and Archives
• Antebellum House Museums
• Blakely State Park
• Boat Tours
• Charter Fishing
• Dauphin Island Sea Lab Estuarium
• Eastern Shore Art Center
• Foley Railroad Museum
• Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center
• Magnolia Grove Golf Course, part of the famed Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail
• Meaher State Park
• Mobile Carnival Museum
• Mobile Greyhound Park
• Mobile Museum of Art
• Museum of the City of Mobile
• Tanger Outlet Center
• Many additional options

Are you ready to plan your trip to the Alabama Gulf Coast? Keep in mind that these are only a few of the many activities that you and your family can enjoy when you visit this beautiful part of the United States. For more information about what to see and do in the area, visit Mobile.org, the official website of the Mobile Bay Convention and Visitors Bureau.