8 Things to Do in January

Gulf Shores & Orange Beach

September 30, 2023

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

1. Get Wild at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

Ever wanted to hold a sloth or feed a giraffe? At the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, you can! This 25-acre zoo located in Gulf Shores is home to over 300 animals. A day spent here includes interactive shows, on-site dining, 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.

2. 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.

3. Explore Gulf State Park by Segway

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.

4. 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.

5. 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 27, while the marathon and half marathon happen on the following day.

6. Up Your Selfie Game

Cool Shots Selfie Museum is the ideal spot for your next Instagram post or TikTok. This visual gallery features over 50 unique and interactive scenes, backdrops and exhibits that take selfies to the next level. Food and drink are welcome in the museum, as well as pets. Grab your camera or phone for your next Insta-worthy selfie.

7. Jump, Climb & Flip

If you’ve got energy to burn, The Factory in Gulf Shores 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!

8. 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.