27 Things To Do in Gulf Shores, AL with Kids [2024 Edition]
My family loves going to the beach and we especially love a kid-friendly beach (because there are plenty that are NOT). One of our favorite Gulf Coast spots is Gulf Shores! The beaches are beautiful and clean. The water is beautiful and clean. Best of all, there are so many things to do in Gulf Shores, AL with kids in tow. So. Many.
We made a list of our favorites because, over the years, we have found some pretty neat things to do with our toddlers/younger kids. Most of our list is actually for kids of all ages but there are a few things that we have specified for kids that are a little older (6+). Check it out below!
Our List of Awesome Gulf Shores Activities for Kids
The Beach
If you are thinking about what to do in Gulf Shores, AL with kids then hitting the sand should probably be #1 on your list. The beach is obviously not one of the most unique things to do in Gulf Shores but it is definitely one of the most entertaining for toddlers and kids!
Gulf Shores has 11 public beach access points. We typically use Lagoon Pass Beach access because it offers restrooms, showers, and a fishing pier so we are good to go for the day if needed.
Check out their list of public access points here and find one that’s closest to your accommodations!
Gulf State Park & Nature Center
Speaking of beach access points, Gulf State Park is one of the most popular! They offer air-conditioned restrooms (a huge plus during the summer), shady pavilion areas for picnics, private showers, and even a large fireplace for wintry days. It’s no wonder that its the most popular beach spot for visitors.
In addition to the beach, Gulf State Park offers campgrounds, lodging, cabins, and a nature center! The nature center is our favorite part of the park because they offer encounters with some of the animals native to the area. You could see baby alligators, turtles, owls, snakes, and more. Check out their activities calendar here to see what they have planned during the days you will be visiting.
Address: 20115 State Park Rd, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Cost: Free!
Website: Check out their website here.
Gulf State Park Fishing Pier
Separate from the nature center is the fishing pier at Gulf State Park. My husband and son think this is one of the more enjoyable gulf shores activities! They love fishing together and have had good luck on this pier. Not only is this pier Alabama’s only public pier for fishing, it is also the large fishing pier in the Gulf of Mexico! Pretty neat. You can purchase a saltwater fishing license, bait, and tackle from the pier as well!
Address: 20115 State Park Rd, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Cost:Free!
Website: Check out their website here.
Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
We look for a zoo or animal sanctuary everywhere we go because our kids love animals! The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo offers special animal encounters that allow you to hold and feed certain animals at the zoo. Our kids were happy with the petting zoo so we opted for that “encounter” instead. With a regular zoo admission you get to see leopard, tigers, camels, lions, a reptile house, and so many more. They have over 300 animals!
If you were hoping for a Gulf Shores aquarium instead of a zoo, you can take a 2 hour ride east to Dauphin Island and visit the Alabama Aquarium there! Although, our kiddos were perfectly happy with the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo.
Address: 20499 Oak Rd E, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Cost: $19.95 for adults / $14.95 for children ages 3-12 / Free for ages 2 and under
Website: Check out their website for more information.
Rolled Ice Cream : Visit Cowbell!
Is anyone else new to rolled ice cream? I know this is not technically an activity but is definitely an experience!
We randomly searched for ice cream places close to our restaurant one night and stumbled upon some of the coolest ice cream we have ever had. Gulf Shores’ first rolled ice cream shop is called Cowbell.
They have a menu board with over 20 possible combinations that they have created but you are also allowed to design your own. After choosing your ice cream and toppings, the workers begin making ice cream in front of you over a surface that is chilled to 16 degrees.
After they have mixed and mashed for 1-2 minutes, they flatten it out, add all of your toppings, and then scrape it into rolls. HOW COOL IS THAT?
Address: 2200 E 2nd St STE D, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Cost: About $8 per cup of ice cream (we got two different cups and shared between the 4 of us-they are large).
Website: Their Facebook has up to date information on specials and new flavors.
Bon Secoure National Wildlife Refuge
Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge is a protected coastal barrier habitat that allows visitors the opportunity to get up close with some native species. If you or your kids like birds then there are plenty of bird watching opportunities for you to take advantage of.
The trails that wind through the refuge showcase the plants and animals native to the area. Our kids loved seeing turtles in their natural habitats! Word of warning: bring plenty of bug spray.
There is so much stuff to do in Gulf Shores but this is a great way to get back to nature and just explore.
Address: 12295 State Highway 180Gulf Shores,AL36542-8203
Cost: Free to enter!
Website: Check out their website here.
Website: Check it out!
Fort Gaines Historic Site
If you or your older kids are really into history then this may be a must-see for your family! Historic Fort Gaines is located on the very tip of Dauphin Island so it will require a little drive from Gulf Shores. However, history buffs will love seeing the reenactments, getting to interact with the fort, and learn some really neat American history.
Fort Gaines Historic Site aims to educate visitors about the Battle of Mobile Bay by providing guided tours with soldiers in period uniform. So cool! You will be able to explore kitchens, tunnels, original cannons, blacksmith shops, a museum, and even a gift shop.
Address: 51 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL 36528
Cost: Free for ages 4 and under // $5 for ages 5-12 // $9 for ages 13+
Dolphin Cruise
Gulf Shores offers a wide variety of dolphin cruises that are great for family outings. They range from 1 hour to 2 hours in length and usually require an advanced booking. These tours tend to sell out, especially during the summer months.
If you are looking for a sunset dolphin cruise in Gulf Shores then check out our comparison post HERE.
Bellingrath Gardens and Home
Come visit the home of one of the first Coca-Cola bottlers in the southeast! Walter Bellingrath’s 1930s historic estate and gardens have been preserved and meticulously maintained. All original furniture and decor (even the china!) are on display for visitors wanting to visit the home.
As a visitor you can choose to visit the home + gardens, or just the gardens by themselves. Their website describes their gardens perfectly: “Stroll along the Great Lawn, relax at Mirror Lake, learn about the wildlife and ecology of Fowl River on the Dwight Harrigan/ExxonMobil Bayou Boardwalk, wander through the Gazebo Garden and discover the peacefulness of the Asian-American Garden.” There is truly so much to see here!
Address: 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, AL 36582
Cost: The cost depends on the chosen package.
Website: Their website has up to date information on what is in bloom in the gardens.
One of the best things to do in Gulf Shores, Al with kids: Fishing!
There are tons of amazing fishing spots in Gulf Shores (says my husband). If you are looking for productive spots to cast a line, check out Little Lagoon, Mobile Bay, Wolf Bay, Perdido Bay, and Terry Cove. If you want to fish on the shore, check out Alabama Pointe or any of the piers.
We found a great local spot/hidden gem. The best way I can tell you to get there is to use this address: 3454 SR-180, Gulf Shores, AL. However, instead of turning towards the houses/ocean, turn across the street to the bay. My husband and son caught redfish, trout, and flounder in the bay waters.
Waterville USA
Need I say more? Well, I’m going to anyway.
Waterville USA is a huge waterpark located in Gulf Shores that offers 12 different water rides and a crystal waters river (for those wanting a more relaxing experience). Their website details age/height requirements for certain rides so be sure to check before planning your trip.
We have not braved a water park with our tiny kiddos yet but I know quite a few friends who give this place two thumbs up. If your family enjoys water parks then add this to your list of things to do in Gulf Shores!
Address: 906 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Cost: Free for ages 2 and under // $25.95 for children under 42″ // $33.95 for all other admissions
Website: Get tickets here!
Pirate Island Adventure Golf
Mini golf is always a “must-do” for us while at the beach. Our kids love it because you really can’t do it wrong. Plus, the courses are so entertaining and kid friendly. Pirate Island Adventure Golf is no different! They are also very convenient to all of the Gulf Shores restaurants so you can make a stop before or after eating.
Address: 3201 Gulf Shores Pky Gulf Shores, AL
Cost: Children 12 and under are free per paying adult (use coupon on website)! Adult price is $10.50.
Website: Check out their website here.
Fort Morgan Road Trail
Fort Morgan Road Trail is a 5-mile paved trail that extends from Gulf State Park in a southwest direction. On the eastern end of the trail, Lagoon Park (18068 Fort Morgan Road) offers parking, restrooms, and drinking water. The park is located on the south side of Fort Morgan Road (Highway 180), 1.8 miles west of Highway 59.
Wade Ward Nature Park
Wade Ward Nature Park is a really cute little park that gives visitors an up close encounter with some of the awesome wild life living in the coastal barrier. The park uses a boardwalk to take visitors in the heart of the plants and natural habitats.
The boardwalk is very accessible for jogging strollers (which we took advantage of) but it is also very doable for younger kids who want to walk. Bonus: the side slats are perfectly spaced so that nobody can fall through. Free public parking can be found just a short walk south one block walk on Highway 59 and then one block east on E. 1st St.
Alabama Coastal Birding Trail
Birding is a great thing to do with little ones because there are so many species to investigate. Gulf Shores offers some of the best birding experiences via their coastal birding trails. Although they offer many, we recommend the Fort Morgan Loop.
The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service gives these recommendations for parking: “The Fort Morgan Loop begins at the intersection of AL 59 and AL 180 in Gulf Shores. Much of the Fort Morgan Peninsula is in the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, and the extreme western end is in the Fort Morgan Historical Park.”
Chocolate Corner
We obviously eat a lot of dessert on vacation since this is the second ice cream shop I am recommending in this list. Chocolate Corner is located right on the corner of one of the biggest intersections in Gulf Shores, making it very convenient to all travelers to the area. It is also right across the street from the zoo and a ton of restaurants. You could easily make a day out of this one intersection!
Chocolate Corner offers homemade truffles, chocolate treats, coffee beverages, and Blue Bell Ice Cream. The ice cream itself is not handmade but they have a ton of options for toppings that are handmade. The shop is locally owned and operated so go shop local for some dessert!
Address: 200 W Fort Morgan RdGulf Shores, AL 36542
Website: Chocolate Corner website.
The Factory
The factory is an indoor trampoline park, rock climbing wall, and arcade which is perfect for rainy beach days. This place is huge and each of the activities mentioned has its own designated area. So, if you are only interested in one then you can easily stick to that part of the building.
As a mom of two toddlers I would say this place is mainly geared towards kids 6+. However, they do host little people time on some weekday mornings so check their website for upcoming events!
Address: 18948 Oak Road W Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Cost: Cost depends on ticket purchased and age. See website for various admission options.
Website: Check out their website for tickets and other info!
Souvenir City : Go Shopping!
Even if you don’t need to do any shopping, Souvenir City in Gulf Shores is a great place to go for a fun photo opportunity. The entrance to the store is a huge shark’s mouth that you can stand inside! My kids thought it was the absolute coolest to be “inside a shark.”
Aside from the awesome entrance, Souvenir City is a great place to go if you’re looking for beach essentials (they have it ALL), souvenirs for friends and family, or something sweet for the ride home. Their Country Store is fully stocked with old time candy, saltwater taffy, lollipops, chocolate bars, and more.
Address: 217 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Website: Their facebook page highlights current specials and new products.
The Track Family Fun Park: Go Karts & Bumper Boats
Go-kart racing was something we always did when I was a kid. We did it at the beach, in the mountains, pretty much anywhere we went on vacation that had a typical “strip.” Our tiny kiddos aren’t quite old enough to enjoy the thrill of running into your family members with a go-kart but our time is coming soon.
The Track is truly a family fun park. They have a smaller kid area with a few tiny rides like a train, carousel, etc. They have mini golf and also an arcade. Then they have the main events: the go-karts and bumper cars.
The Track does not have an admission cost for entry. However, you pay per ride using a point system. If you buy points online (ahead of time) then your rides cost less because you got more points for less money. You can also pay for rides a la carte as you approach them using the kiosks in the park and your phone.
Address: 3200 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Cost: Depends ont he number of points you intend to buy/use.
Website: Use their website to plan your rides and buy points accordingly!
Lambert’s Cafe: Throwed Rolls
Lambert’s Cafe is definitely at the top of the list of most unique things to do in Gulf Shores. Bonus points: it is so kid friendly! This family owned and operated restaurant (for 4 generations!) does something really neat; they throw their dinner rolls to you. The cafe is decorated with some of the coolest and most unique decorations from all over the country. We had no shortage of conversation topics while we waited for our food.
In addition to throwing rolls at you (which are fresh from the oven, btw), Lambert’s also has “pass arounds.” Servers walk around holding huge bowls of freshly prepared sides that you can have as little of or as much of as you like. These include fried okra, black eyed peas, apple butter and molasses (for the rolls), potatoes and onions, cucumber and onions, and macaroni and tomatoes.
We have eaten here a few time over the last 10 years and I have honestly never had a bad thing here. I would highly recommend a trip to Lambert’s!
Address: 2981 S. McKenzie Foley, AL 36535
Website: Check out their website for full menu!
Zooland Mini Golf
Zooland Mini Golf has a claim to fame: $5 mini golf. For everyone. Bonus: it includes unlimited golf! If you’re looking to spend an afternoon playing mini golf then this might be your most economical option. Zooland mini golf is not the most exciting putt-putt course and hasn’t been update in a few years. However, what it lacks in lustre it makes up for in value.
Address: 1204 Gulf Shores Pkwy. Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Cost: $5 for everyone
Website: Check out this website for more information.
Kids Park
Kids Park is a great, shaded playground in Gulf Shores. They also provide tunnel slides, baby swings, tire swings, a rope bridge, and so much more. It is a great place to go for lunch if you are looking for a quiet spot to have a picnic while the kids play!
Address: 348 W 19th Ave, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Cost: Free!
Website: Check out the Gulf Shores Tourism website for more info.
Tumble Beez in Foley
Tumble Beez in Foley is an indoor playground that has designated toddler time every Tuesday!! Check this place out f you are stuck inside on a rainy beach day and need an awesome place to play. Or if its a sunny day and too hot. Or if you just want to wear your kids out. You can’t go wrong!
Tumble Beez is a gymnasium designed for younger kids as well as older kids (I would say 10 and under). They have a ball pit, tunnels, climbing equipment, basketball hoops, obstacle courses, etc. All of these activities are geared toward children so they are soft/squishy and on a lower level.
Toddler Tuesday is from 10am-12pm for ages 4 and under. Toddlers are $10.
Address: 8097 AL-59, Foley, AL 36535
Cost: $20 ages 2 and up for daily admission // $15 for babies under 2 //Toddler Tuesday discount=$10 for children ages 4 and under //adults are free with paid child admission
Website: Check out their Facebook page for daily updates and specials.
Meyer Park
You guys know I love a free park. Meyer Park is a local park in Gulf Shores that includes a pretty sweet playground that happens to be new! They have shaded picnic tables, a basketball court, and plenty of grass for running and picnics. Meyer Park is home to concerts and big screen movies during the summer so check their list of events before heading out there.
Address: 400 East 22nd Avenue Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Cost: Free!
Website: Get more information here!
Ferris Wheel at the Wharf
If you have not taken your kids on a ferris wheel yet then I would highly recommend this one…at night! It has the absolute coolest colored lights when it’s dark outside! Our kiddos were super impressed with this giant ferris wheel (it is actually one of the largest in the southeast). This really is one of the most underrated Gulf Shores activities!
Address: 23101 Canal Rd.Orange Beach, AL 36561
Cost: $ per person for ages 4 and up // Free for ages 3 and under
Website: Check out their website for hours and events.
Sand Castle Course at Sand Castle University
I know it sounds silly but there are some legitimate sand castle builders out there who know a thing or two about sand structures. The sand castle course is FUN and a great activity for families. Sand Castle University provides all of the tools needed to build an awesome sand castle.
They charge by group size so you will need to let them know how many people you have in your party in order to get a quote. Children age 3 and under are free! The instructor will meet you at your rental (if on the beach/within walking distance) or at a public beach closest to you.
Check out their website here to book your course!
Pirate Ship Cruise (Orange Beach)
The Pirate ship adventure cruise is definitely one of the most unique things to in Gulf Shores! Although, this would technically fall under the category of things to do in Orange Beach given the address but it is literally right next door to Gulf Shores!
As pirates, you will board the real wooden pirate ship and sail out to sea for about 2 hours. The cruise includes face painting, hats, games, a limbo contest, and lots of fun trivia. Sometimes you even see dolphins!
Life jackets are provided and required for anyone 8 and under. If you are bringing a baby or young toddler who weighs less than 30 lbs then you will need to provide your own life jacket.
Address: 4575 S. Wilson Blvd.Orange Beach, AL 36561
Cost: $29 for ages 2-12 / $39 for ages 13-64 / $31 for ages 65+
Website: Check out their website for booking information.
FAQs About Gulf Shores
We get asked a lot of questions about Gulf Shores, specifically related to family travel and safety. See some of the most commonly asked below.
Is Gulf Shores, Alabama good for families / Is Gulf Shores a good family vacation spot?
100%. Gulf Shores is one of our all-time favorite beach spots. It is clean, well-maintained, and truly family oriented. There are more kid activities than adult activities! So, not only is Gulf Shores good for families, it is made for families.
Is there a Gulf Shores Aquarium?
Sadly, there is not a Gulf Shores aquarium. The closest true aquarium is the Alabama Aquarium located on Dauphin Island. If you are looking for fun animal encounters, I would recommend the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo and the Gulf State Park Nature Center (see above).
Is Gulf Shores or Destin better for kids?
This question obviously depends on your family’s personal preference. Destin has more variety in every way. There are more lodging options, more restaurant options, and more activity options. So if you are planning to stay for a week or two and want to do something different every day, then I would recommend Destin.
However, if you like to keep it low-key, avoid a ton of traffic, and have the ability to truly relax then I would recommend Gulf Shores. There are some great local spots to eat in the area but not a ton of choices. They obviously have a wide variety of activities but they also have a lot less people trying to do them. Food for thought.
What is there for a 3 year old to do in Gulf Shores?
Just about everything on our list is appropriate for a 3 year old. We noted the activities that we felt were a little “older.” Comb through this list of Gulf Shore activities and see if anything strikes your fancy.
[Wrap-Up] Gulf Shores, Alabama : Things To D0
When planning your list of what to do in Gulf Shores, please let us know if you come across anything cool. There really are some unique things to do in Gulf Shores and there are tons of things to do in Orange Beach as well. We’d love to hear from you! Happy traveling.
