Things to Do in October in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach

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Coming to visit in October? Here are some fun things to do during your stay!

1. Go Birdwatching

Bring your binoculars to the coast for the 2023 Annual John L. Borom Alabama Coastal BirdFest, happening October 4-7. This four-day event highlights great bird-and nature-watching spots throughout Baldwin and Mobile counties. You'll have the opportunity to discover many native species of birds and a variety of local wildlife, such as alligators, dolphins, turtles, and other creatures. Five Rivers Delta Center is also offering multiple workshops throughout the event.

2. 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!

3. Attend Freedom Fest

Celebrate a red, white, and blue weekend at The Wharf. Orange Beach is hosting its 3^rd Annual Freedom Fest on October 6-7. This two-day event includes Bama Coast Cruisin's fall car show, arts and crafts booths, food vendors, live music, and children's activities.

4. 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

5. Enjoy Fresh Gulf Shrimp

Bring your appetite to the beach this fall and get ready for the National Shrimp Festival on October 12-15. 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.

6. Ride the Ferris Wheel & Train

Head to The Wharf and ride on one of the tallest Ferris wheels in the Southeast. You can watch as this Ferris wheel lights up the sky with vibrant colors if you visit at night. The little ones will love taking a ride on The Wharf Express. This charming train drives around Main Street, allowing passengers to discover The Wharf.

7. Hear Willie Nelson Live

On Saturday, October 8, The Outlaw Music Festival is coming to The Wharf Amphitheater. Headlining the fest is none other than the iconic outlaw himself, Willie Nelson. The night will also include performances from The Avett Brothers, Gov't Mule, Elizabeth Cook, and Particle Kid. Grab tickets to this festival before they sell out!

8. Discover the Wildlife at the Zoo

Say hello to some of the wild residents of Gulf Shores at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. This zoo provides visitors with up-close encounters with a few of its residents, such as sloths, lemurs, and kangaroos. 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!

9. Celebrate Oktoberfest

You can't let the month pass by without celebrating Oktoberfest! Flora-Bama hosts its celebration on Sunday, October 9, 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!

10. Get Spooky for Halloween

There is no shortage of ways to celebrate Halloween on Alabama's beaches! Dress up and run or bike the Haunted Hustle 5K in Gulf Shores on October 21. 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.