10 Things to Do in October
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 10 things to do in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach this October!
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 2024 Alabama Coastal BirdFest, happening October 4-6. 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 4th Annual Freedom Fest on October 4-5. 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 10-13. 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. Get Witchy
Lace up your shores and grab your witches hat for the Haunted Hustle 5K, Fun Run, and Witches on Wheels Ride on Saturday, October 19 at Gulf Place. This race is perfect for getting in the spirit 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!
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 6, 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! 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.
