Things to Do in October
in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
The fun on Alabama's Beaches doesn't stop when summer is over, as fall brings a myriad of seasonal activities to the Gulf Coast. Check out these events and things to do in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan this October!
October Events & Activities on Alabama's Beaches
Savor Fresh Seafood at Shrimp Fest
Bring your appetite to the beach this fall and get ready for the National Shrimp Festival on October 8-11. This mouthwatering event features more than 50 vendors serving delicious Gulf seafood every day. There will also be live music, over 200 artist booths, kids' activities, and a 5K and 10K run. Whether you like your shrimp boiled, steamed, or fried, you'll find irresistible eats here.
Hit the Mini-Golf Course
Practice your putting skills when you hit the mini-golf course! Our area offers various putt-putt attractions, each with its own unique course and amenities. It's a fun activity for the entire family and a great way to get out and enjoy the fantastic fall weather!
Grab Your Lederhosen for Flora-Bama's Oktoberfest
You can't let the month pass by without celebrating Oktoberfest! Flora-Bama hosts its annual celebration on Sunday, October 11, complete with complimentary German food, live polka music, and a stein-hoisting contest. Grab your lederhosen and head to this party, as it's sure to be a gute Zeit!
Catch a Show Under the Stars at The Wharf
On Saturday, October 3, the iconic Weird Al Yankovic hits the stage at The Wharf Amphitheater. Grab a ticket to see this comedy legend perform in Orange Beach. The comfortable weather of the season makes this the perfect time for an outdoor show under the stars.
Bike Through Gulf State Park
October brings cooler weather to the Gulf Coast, making it ideal for exploring the area on bikes. Gulf State Park offers 28 miles of trails for bikers to traverse and discover native plants and wildlife. If you don't have a bike, you can take advantage of the park's free bike-sharing program! More than 50 bikes are located throughout Gulf State Park for visitors to use
Ride the Ferris Wheel & Train at The Wharf
Head to The Wharf and ride on one of the tallest Ferris wheels in the Southeast. You can watch this Ferris wheel vibrantly light up the sky at night. The little ones will love taking a ride on The Wharf Express. This charming train runs up and down Main Street, making it the perfect attraction for toddlers and young kids.
Attend Meeting of the Minds
If you're a Jimmy Buffett fan, you won't want to miss this year's Meeting of the Minds from October 21-25. Parrotheads from across the country flock together on our shores for a week of live music, fabulous seafood, and coastal camaraderie. Find your cheeseburger in paradise at the beach!
Discover the Wildlife at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
Say hello to some of the wild residents of Gulf Shores at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. This zoo offers visitors up-close encounters with a few of its residents, including sloths, lemurs, and giraffes. You'll also have the opportunity to see over 300 animals while here. There are plenty of unique creatures to marvel at, from reptiles and felines to primates and bears!
Run the Haunted Hustle 5K
Lace up your shoes and grab your witches' hat for the Haunted Hustle 5K, Fun Run, and Witches on Wheels Ride on Saturday, October 17, at Gulf Place. This race is perfect for getting in the spirit of Halloween while also getting a little exercise in. Participants are encouraged to dress up as witches, ghosts, monsters, or any other ghoulish creature they like!
Get Spooky for Halloween
There is no shortage of ways to celebrate Halloween on Alabama's Beaches! Grab the kiddos and check out The Wharf's trunk-or-treat celebration on the evening of Halloween. Then, be sure to put together your best costume because Flora-Bama is hosting its annual costume contest on Halloween night with live music, delicious drinks, and lots of fun.
Coming to visit in October? Here are some fun things to do during your stay!
Explore Rentals on Alabama's Beaches
Whatever your vacation style, Alabama’s Beaches have the perfect spot for you. Start planning by choosing your dates and group size, and explore the best vacation rentals in Gulf Shores, comfortable places to stay in Orange Beach, or the charming rentals of Fort Morgan. With verified listings, secure payments, and real support, there are plenty of reasons why you should book with us.
Sydnie Lee
A Gulf Coast native and Travel Marketing Professional, Sydnie is Alabama's Beaches Content Specialist (AKA taste tester and destination researcher.) She spends time visiting restaurants, attractions, activities, and events in the area to get the inside scoop on all things happening in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan.
Autumn
Looking for one of the best fall beach vacations in the US? Discover the beauty and peace of Alabama's Beaches, where sugar-white sand and tranquil shores create the ultimate quiet beach vacation.
In this video, we take you on a relaxing journey through Alabama’s white sand beaches, perfect for a serene autumn escape. Whether you're planning a trip in October or November, Alabama’s Beaches offers some of the best fall beach vacations in the US, without the crowds. Imagine cool breezes, warm sun, and stunning Gulf views, all part of your dream quiet beach vacation.
From the peaceful vibes to the natural beauty, Alabama's Beaches is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. If you’re seeking a unique destination with some of the best white sand beaches in the US, this is your sign to start planning.
