Museums & Historical Sites On Alabama's Beaches

historic fort Morgan gulf shores attraction
History Museum of Mobile attraction in Downtown Mobile

Forts, Museums, & Stories from the Coast

Today’s coastal Alabama is a sandy, southern enclave of beautiful beaches, welcoming accommodations, and family-friendly attractions in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Fort Morgan. But behind the activities and amenities of modern life is a thrilling Gulf Coast history that lives on in local museums, historic forts and heritage sites.

Spend time at the Gulf Shores Museum and Orange Beach History Museum to learn how hurricanes, fishing families and everyday coastal life shaped Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. For a look at the area’s military and maritime past, visit Historic Fort Morgan, Fort Gaines, or USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park.

Learn More About Historic Fort Morgan

More Than 450 Years of History

You might already know that Alabama joined the Confederate States of America in 1861 and that Civil War sites still dot the coastline. But if you thought the area’s military history went back no further, you’d be off by about 300 years.

Spanish explorer Tristán de Luna arrived at Pensacola Bay, just east of Orange Beach, in 1559. That first colony was wiped out by a hurricane, but the Spanish returned in 1698 to establish Presidio Santa Maria de Galve, the first permanent settlement and military outpost on Pensacola Bay. That same stretch of land became Naval Air Station Pensacola, now home to the National Naval Aviation Museum. Nearby are Fort Pickens and Fort Barrancas, the latter used during both the Civil War and the Spanish-American War. 

Discover Our Top Historical Sites

Mobile Bay

Journey Along the Mobile Bay Civil War Trail

Follow coastal Alabama’s Civil War story beyond Fort Morgan along the Mobile Bay Civil War Trail. Set at the end of Highway 180 in Gulf Shores, Fort Morgan Museum marks the southernmost stop along the Mobile Bay Civil War Trail, which stretches more than 90 miles from the Gulf to Mobile County. There are more than a dozen Civil War sites on this trail, including Fort Gaines on Dauphin Island, where Admiral Farragut shouted, “Damn the torpedoes! Full speed ahead!” The trail also includes Magee Farm, known as “The Last Appomattox,” where Confederate General Richard Taylor surrendered 47,000 troops to the Union.

Explore Local History in Any Season

Whether you need a break from the summer heat, an indoor rainy-day activity, or a relaxed outing during the cooler months, the museums and historical sites on Alabama’s Beaches are an ideal stop any time of year. Both the Gulf Shores Museum and the Orange Beach History Museum are free attractions that highlight the area’s local history. Located on the west end of the peninsula, Historic Fort Morgan guards Mobile Bay and is a great outdoor stop for families, history lovers, and snowbirds.

Find History & Museums Attractions

Discover the rich history of the Gulf Coast by visiting museums and historic sites in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Fort Morgan and nearby communities.

 

Filter
Areas
General
play_arrowYouTube Video Thumbnail

Fly Over The

Fort

Dating back to the early 19th Century, Fort Morgan has been a key defense fort in a number of historic battles, including the Civil War, the Spanish-American War and both World Wars. This National Historic Landmark is best known for its role in the Battle of Mobile Bay.

FAQs About Museums & Historical Sites

Are the museums in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach free to visit?

Yes. The Gulf Shores Museum and Orange Beach History Museum are free to visit.

What museums and historical sites are best for children?

Historic Fort Morgan, the Foley Railroad Museum & Model Train Exhibit, Exploreum Science Center, and USS Alabama Battleship are great attractions for families with kids. 

Are the museums on Alabama’s Beaches wheelchair and stroller accessible?

Yes. The Gulf Shores Museum, Orange Beach History Museum, Baldwin County Heritage Museum, Foley Railroad Museum and Model Train Exhibit, National Maritime Museum of The Gulf, History Museum of Mobile, and National Naval Aviation Museum are wheelchair-accessible.

Is Historic Fort Morgan mostly indoors or outdoors?

Historic Fort Morgan is an indoor and outdoor attraction. The fort’s tunnels are covered; however, guests must walk outside to reach the fort and explore the grounds. 

Do I need to buy tickets in advance for any museums on Alabama’s Beaches?

No. Most museums in and around Alabama’s Beaches are free. Advance tickets are only recommended for special events, such as reenactments held at Historic Fort Morgan and Fort Gaines.

Plan Your Stay

Ready to get acquainted with Alabama’s Beaches and its rich history? Request a vacation guide and build your plans to tour our local museums, historic forts and heritage sites! Be sure to book your Gulf Shores hotel or Orange Beach condo rental today! 

Book Your Stay

Alabama's Instagrammable Moments

Girl swimming in ocean

Trip Planning Resources

Your journey to Alabama's Beaches begins here.

Request a Free Guide
Book Now

USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park

Details