Let's Adventure
Gulf State Park is hosting its first ever Venture Out event on May 15-17. This three-day festival will feature a variety of nature and outdoor-focused activities, workshops, and tours throughout the park and along the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail. The family-friendly event is a collaboration between Gulf State Park, the Gulf Coast Eco-Center, Valor Hospitality, the City of Gulf Shores, and the City of Orange Beach.
2026 Venture Out
Locations
Locations
Venture Out will take place at several locations within Gulf State Park, such as the Learning Campus, Woodside Restaurant, Lake Shelby, Nature Center, and the Gulf State Park Fishing & Education Pier, as well as the Gulf Coast Eco-Center.
Activities
Activities
Outdoor lovers will have abundant opportunities to explore the natural wonders of Gulf State Park throughout the festival. Event activities include bike rides, guided tours, rope course sessions, beach and nature walks, a cookout, and a scavenger hunt.
Workshops & Classes
Workshops & Classes
From coastal ecosystems and native wildlife to bicycles and storms, Venture Out will feature educational workshops on a variety of topics. These hands-on sessions are open to residents and visitors to help them learn about our local environment and the best ways to enjoy it.
Art Exhibit - Plein Air Paintings
Art Exhibit - Plein Air Paintings
A dozen local and regional artists will be along the trails throughout the event, creating live paintings of the park. The final pieces will be on display at The Lodge from 1-5 pm on Sunday afternoon.
Closing Reception
Closing Reception
The event will wrap up on Sunday, May 17, at The Lodge with a closing reception to celebrate the award-winning Hugh S. Branyon Trail. During the ceremony, guests will have the opportunity to meet with State Park officials, local dignitaries, and the exhibit artists.
Event Schedule
Event Schedule
A full schedule of events will be released closer to the festival.
Admission & Parking
Admission & Parking
Coming for an Event? Book Your Stay!
Whatever your vacation style, Alabama’s Beaches have the perfect spot for you. Start planning by choosing your dates and group size, and explore the best vacation rentals in Gulf Shores, comfortable places to stay in Orange Beach, or the charming rentals of Fort Morgan. With verified listings, secure payments, and real support, there are plenty of reasons why you should book with us.
$200
VISA GIFT CARD
Book Now >Book your stay on our site (AlabamasBeaches.com) to visit during the month of May and receive a free $200 VISA gift card. Please see our disclaimer page for more details.
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