Kids jumping on a trampoline at The Factory trampoline park in Gulf Shores

Things to Do in January

in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach

October 31, 2025

Planning on taking a beach trip this winter? January is an excellent time to visit Alabama's Beaches. The comfortable temperature mixed with fewer crowds makes it the ultimate vacation destination with indoor and outdoor activities for those of all ages to enjoy. Check out all the fun things to do in January in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan.

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Joining us along Alabama Beaches in January? Here are some fun things to do!

January Activities & Events on Alabama's Beaches

sloths at the Alabama Gulf Coast zoo in gulf shores

Get Wild at the Zoo

Ever wanted to hold a sloth or feed a giraffe? At the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, you can! This 25-acre zoo is home to over 300 animals. A day spent here includes interactive shows, theme-park rides, and the chance to interact with some of the animals. You’ll definitely want to take advantage of the zoo’s animal encounters while you’re here for an unforgettable experience.

Family playing mini golf at Jurassic Golf indoor, blacklight putt putt

Have Prehistoric Fun

Everyone loves a game of mini golf while on a beach vacation, but have you ever experienced putt putt with dinosaurs? Jurassic Golf in Gulf Shores is a glow-in-the-dark indoor mini-golf course with 18 holes and lots of prehistoric creatures. You’ll see Triceratops, Pterodactyls, and even a Tyrannosaurs Rex as you move through this exciting black-light course.

cappuccino machine pouring a fresh cup of coffee at Foam craft coffee shop in Gulf Shores

Get Your Morning Brews

Keep warm by sipping a cup (or two or three) of coffee at one of the local coffee shops in the area. Grab a pastry or breakfast too and make it a meal or stop by in the afternoon for a midday pick-me-up. Whether you like it sugary sweet or black, you'll find a place to get your caffeine fix on our shores.

Arcade games at Arena the Next Level Arcade at The Wharf in Orange Beach

Go to the Next Level

If you’re looking for a thrilling activity to do during your stay, check out Arena The Next Level at The Wharf. This fun-filled spot features a 4,000 sq ft. laser tag arena and bazooka ball. If that’s not enough, there’s also an arcade filled with new and classic games. It’s the perfect place for a family outing.

Runners racing in the Big Beach Marathon in Gulf Shores

Run the Beach

Grab your running shoes and head to the beach this January for the Big Beach Marathon, Half-Marathon, and 7K. This Boston Marathon qualifier boasts delightful scenery as runners wind through Gulf State Park and along the beach road. The 7K takes place on January 24, while the marathon and half marathon happen on the following day.

Artists creating glass blown ornaments at The Hot Shop in Orange Beach

Try Glass Blowing

It may be a little chilly outside, but things are heating up at The Hot Shop. This glass-blowing studio is home to incredible artists who create stunning glass art at The Coastal Art Center in Orange Beach. The facility is open for guests to watch these glass-blowing experts while they work and browse their previous creations. If you’re feeling artistic, you can even sign up for a class led by one of the artists and make your own piece.

Teens climbing at The Factory trampoline park in Gulf Shores

Jump, Climb, & Flip

If you’ve got energy to burn, The Factory is the spot for you! This fun trampoline park offers 12,000 square feet of world-class trampolines to jump on. Not only that, but The Factory also has foam pits, trampoline dodgeball and basketball, batting cages with pitching machines, and an arcade. With so much to do, you’re guaranteed to have a good time here!

woman riding a Segway along the boardwalks in Gulf State Park during a Coastal Segway Adventures tour

Take a Segway tour

You can enjoy outdoor activities all year here on the Gulf Coast. However, the cooler weather that winter brings to the coast makes January a great time to enjoy the natural beauty of the area without breaking a sweat. With 6,150 acres, Gulf State Park is a great place to explore, and one of the best ways to do that is with a guided Segway tour. Each tour begins with a lesson on how to operate the Segway, so you’ll ride with ease and confidence as you experience the park.

Have a Snowball Fight

No, we don't have snow on the beach. (Other than that one time in January 2025). However, you can still have a snowball fight on the shore! Bahama Buck's offers coolers of snowballs in addition to its delicious snow cone offerings. Grab a pack and head to the beach for a Gulf-front fight. The cooler weather makes it an ideal time as the snow balls won't melt as fast.