Top 10 Must-Visit Attractions for Your Next Workcation

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!

Wild Native Dolphin Kayak Tour Orange Beach

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.

Sunny Lady May Dolphin Cruise Orange Beach

6. 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.

7. 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.

8. 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!

9. 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.