Venture Out

May 15-17

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Snowbirds walking in the Gulf State Park on Alabama's Beaches
Eco Center Ropes Course

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 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.

Venture Out
GSP Pier
GSP trail

2026 Venture Out

Family interacting with local wildlife at the Nature Center in Gulf State Park

Locations

Locations

Venture Out will take place at several locations within Gulf State Park, such as the Learning CampusLake ShelbyNature Center, and the Gulf Coast Eco-Center.

Person riding their bike in GSP

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 bio blitz.

Worker of the eco-center teaching visitors about different vegetation on the campus

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.

artist working at the Gulf Coast Arts Alliance in Gulf Shores

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 1-6 pm on Sunday afternoon.

Family exploring Gulf State Park

Event Schedule

Event Schedule

Venture Out offers a packed, easygoing schedule with activities happening throughout the day, from morning bike rides and nature walks to afternoon workshops and hands-on experiences. You can jump into guided tours, wildlife adventures, or family-friendly fun at different spots around Gulf State Park. 

View Event Schedule

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

Gift Card

Book your May stay and get a free $200 Visa gift card! Consider it a little extra sunshine on us. Click here for details on qualifying stays and how it all works.

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