During your stay at Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, you might find yourself in need of something to do on a rainy day or as respite from the heat. This destination isn't just sugar sand beaches and clear water. Learn more about some of our favorite Gulf Shores and Orange Beach indoor activities below.
Weeks Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve
This public research and education facility encompasses over 9,000 acres of protected estuarine habitats bordering Weeks Bay and Fish and...
Outer Limits VR Game Room
Outer Limits gives you the unimaginable experience of VR gaming along with the full thrill rides of each game. Explore...
City of Foley Depot Museum and Model Train Exhibit
This museum is located in the Louisville and Nashville railroad depot that was built in Foley in 1909. In the...
City of Gulf Shores Public Library
Open Mon - Fri 10am - 6pm - Building capacity is 50 - 4 computers available in the computer lab...
Mobile Carnival Museum
Immerse yourself in the rich history and traditions of carnival. See firsthand the intricate designs and artistry of majestic crowns...
XIT Escape Room
XIT Escape Room is the premier live escape game in Gulf Shores. With four different themed escape rooms, you are...
Tanger Outlet Center
The outlets have over 120 brand name and designer stores. From fashions for the entire family to accessories, footwear, gifts...
Fairhope Museum of History
We are located in the heart of downtown in Fairhope’s 1928 Spanish Mission-style city hall building. The museum includes the...
Bellingrath Gardens and Home
Come experience Bellingrath Gardens and Home, the naturally breathtaking historic manor home and pleasure gardens located in southern Mobile County...
Gulf Coast Arts Alliance
The Gulf Coast Arts Alliance is a non-profit organization with the purpose of expanding the arts in Gulf Shores and...
Fat Daddy's Arcade
Fat Daddy’s Arcade in Orange Beach is one of the area’s top attractions for family-friendly entertainment, featuring more than 80...
Pensacola Lighthouse & Maritime Museum
Climb the 177 steps up to the historic Pensacola Lighthouse & Maritime Museum for one of the most beautiful views...
The Alabama Aquarium at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab
The Alabama Aquarium, formerly known as the Estuarium, will give you a hands-on learning experience exploring the habitats of coastal...
USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park
The public is invited to tour the grounds and monuments, utilize the picnic area, fish from the fishing pier, and...
Learning and Creating
Learn more about the local ecosystem when you take a trip to the Estuarium, with over 100 coastal species to see up close. The facility has 31 aquariums, exhibits, hands-on activities and experts to answer your questions. Another great way to spend the day indoors is to get creative and learn a new skill. There are ample opportunities to take art classes in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Try your hand at jewelry making at Blue Girl Beading or have some fun while making a painting to take home with Christie's Paint n Shop. The Coastal Arts Center in Orange Beach is known for glass blowing. It offers classes and demonstrations, as well as pieces for sale.
Museums
Do you have history lovers in your group? They might be interested in stopping by the museums in the area. The Gulf Shores Museum has free admission to explore a historical home. Visit during a rainy day, and learn about the history of the city from friendly guides. The museums often host lectures and show movies highlighting events in Gulf Shores history.
Art and Culture
Whether you like looking at art, or you're looking for a piece to purchase and bring back home, you'll enjoy the local artists that call Gulf Shores home. Gulf Coast Arts Alliance is a great place to start, with a gallery that features over 50 local artists. You'll find several other small galleries and art shops throughout the area, each with incredible, unique pieces that showcase the style, culture and flair of the area.
Fun and Games
Looking for a family-friendly activity that doesn't involve being outdoors? There's still fun to be had away from the beach. Visit Fat Daddy's Arcade for arcade games that the whole family can enjoy. Adventure Island is home to over 100 games, a rock wall, and a roller coaster simulator - allowing you to enjoy the thrill of amusement park rides while staying indoors.
Shopping
If you're in the mood for retail therapy, you're in luck. Spend an afternoon out of the elements checking out local shops and well known stores. The Tanger Outlets offer over 120 stores to visit, including favorite brands at discounted prices. For some local gulf flavor, visit the smaller shops around town where you'll find everything from handmade jewelry to cute souvenirs that will remind you of your trip to Alabama.
Rain or shine, you'll always have a good time at Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Be sure to look at the calendar of events to see what will be happening around town while you're visiting the area and start making your list of rainy day activities. Request a vacation guide to find out what else the area has to offer and plan a Gulf Coast vacation today!
