10 Must-Experience Attractions for Your Next Workcation
Looking for the best places to visit during your next trip to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach? We’ve compiled the perfect list to make planning simple and fun.
1. Animal Encounters at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
Fall in love with some of the gentlest and friendliest creatures during a one-on-one, interactive setting that won’t soon be forgotten. Learn about the animals’ behaviors, diet and care during these exciting encounters at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo.
2. Coastal Arts Center
Browse the gorgeous fine arts gallery, blow your own glass in The Hot Shop, or make your own clay creations in The Clay Studio. The Coastal Arts Center offers a beautiful waterfront experience for everyone. Fun fact: It is a beautiful meeting or wedding location!
3. Dolphin & Wildlife Kayak Experience in Gulf Shores
Your team will be immersed in the coastal wilderness in one of the prettiest classrooms on the planet. During this three-hour guided kayak experience, attendees will learn about the habitat, history, feeding behaviors, intelligence, and communal nature of the bottlenose dolphin and other local wildlife.
4. Gulf State Park
An abundance of things to see and do is available within the park’s 6,150 acres. The Gulf State Park Fishing and Education Pier extends into the Gulf of Mexico and features 2,448 feet of fishing space. Looking to catch a few rays between meetings? Enjoy three miles of beautiful beach access at the Gulf State Park Beach Pavilion. Other activities at the park include biking, kayaking and visiting the nature center.
5. The Wharf
Enjoy boutique and specialty shopping or dining with views of the Intracoastal Waterview or the lively Main Street area. The Wharf is the place to catch a movie, ride on a Ferris wheel, play at an arcade or even take an on-the-water excursion. This complex also features the 18,000-square-foot Orange Beach Event Center, ideal for various meetings and events, as well as off-site team-building activities.
6. Guided Pier Walk at Gulf State Park
Experience firsthand the vast biodiversity of the region during a journey along Gulf State Park’s 1,540-foot pier. Expert naturalists from the Gulf State Park Nature Center will familiarize you with the pier, marine wildlife, and conservation efforts of the park.
7. Dolphin Cruises
Itching for an adventure? Get out on the water and experience the local wildlife for yourself with some local guides. Cetacean Cruises, Sail Wild Hearts, and the Pirate Ship Cruise are a few of the many great options to choose from.
8. Chef’s Table at Orange Beach Concierge
Treat your attendees to an intimate, upscale, one-of-a-kind dining experience. This multi-course tasting event features information and expert preparation by Chef David Pan.
9. Beachy Nightlife
You can find lots of exciting nightlife in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach! Start your evening at Big Beach Brewing Company – the place to be for all craft beer connoisseurs. All beers on tap are created within the 10-barrel brewhouse and kept just above freezing temperature. Play games on the front lawn, enjoy live music, or catch a football game inside on the big screen. Finish the night off at the Flora-Bama. Between the five stages and ice-cold signature cocktails – including their famous bushwacker – your group is guaranteed a good time dancing the night away to live music!
10. Destinations Within a Destination
Many restaurants in the area are more than just restaurants – they are one-of-a-kind experiences. Between the family-friendly DJ, hourly foam pit, live music and great food, The Hangout is definitely a place that’s fun for all ages. LuLu’s is also a family favorite and a must-add to your list. Travelers with food sensitivities find comfort in the plethora of options for gluten-free, shellfish-free, seafood-free, egg-free, soy-free and dairy-free needs. Between the arcade, ropes course and sandpit, waiting for a table at LuLu’s is a blast! And don't miss GTs on the Bay. Located on Wolf Bay in Orange Beach, its picturesque views with a large outdoor deck and generous play area for the kids, paired with the family-friendly fare, make for a fun night out for your whole group.
For a full list of the area’s top attractions and even more assistance with planning your next trip, be sure to check out our meeting planner marketing toolkit.
