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.
National Naval Aviation Museum
The National Naval Aviation Museum is the world’s largest Naval Aviation museum and one of the most-visited museums in the...
Gulf Bowl
This family owned and operated attraction has been providing fun since 1959. We are a 35,000 square foot family entertainment...
AMC Classic Wharf 15
Experiencing a rainy day at the beach? Then come see the latest movie releases at AMC Classic Wharf 15. It...
Flight Works Alabama
Spearheaded by Airbus and the State of Alabama, Flight Works Alabama is a comprehensive aerospace exhibition and education center, now...
The Factory Gulf Shores
At The Factory, you can jump around on over 12,000 square feet of connected, world-class trampolines. But we are much...
Foley Railroad 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...
Orange Beach History Museum
The building that houses the Orange Beach History Museum was originally built in 1910 as a schoolhouse. It has served...
CMX Pinnacle 14 Theatres
Featuring 14 auditoriums with wall-to-wall screens, Pinnacle 14 offers true stadium seating, Dolby digital surround sound, five RealD 3D theaters...
Gulf State Park Nature Center
Gulf State Park's Nature Center is a living museum of plants and animals that are native to the Gulf Coast...
Tanger Outlet Center
Tanger Foley is Baldwin County's upscale, open-air outlet shopping destination, featuring a coveted collection of top brands and local shops.
Hawaii Fluid Art
Embrace your artistic side! We are an art studio dedicated to providing artists of all ability levels with the opportunity...
Adventure Island
Adventure Island features rides and thrills for the entire family. Ride go-karts, bumper boats, and play glow golf. Experience adventure...
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...
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...
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!
