Taking a Day Trip From Gulf Shores to Fairhope

Exploration is one of the most rewarding aspects of a vacation. You meet new people, find cool restaurants, and who knows, you may even cross a few things off your bucket list. For those of you with wanderlust planning a stay with Brett/Robinson, you’ll be tickled pink to know that we have an ideal central location near several other attractive towns and cities. Fairhope, Alabama, is a place that repeatedly comes to mind when guests ask us about nearby places to go because of its proximity and charming quaintness. So, in this blog, we will give you some ideas for taking a day trip from Gulf Shores to Fairhope!

How to Get From Gulf Shores to Fairhope

The nice thing about going from Gulf Shores to Fairhope is that it’s super easy. We’ll give you a scenic route that goes by the Weeks Bay Nature Reserve. Just hop on 59 and head north to Foley until you reach Highway 98, where you’ll want to turn left at the Holmes Medical Museum. Then, just head west on 98, Alabama’s Coastal Connection, until you see the Food Mart and take a right. Drive for about eight more miles north; boom, you’ll be in friendly Fairhope!

Where to Eat in Fairhope, AL

You may have already heard, but it’s worth mentioning that Fairhope is home to two renowned eateries featured on Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives—Panini Pete’s and Sunset Pointe Restaurant. Both establishments are run by “Panini” Pete Blohme. As you can guess, Panini Pete’s specializes in scrumptious heat-pressed sandwiches, but they also offer several other delectables, such as breakfast bowls, frittatas, and world-famous beignets. Meanwhile, Sunset Pointe is another unassuming joint showcasing an eclectic menu with creative culinary creations like Seared Tuna Nachos and Eastern Shore Bouillabaisse. Another awesome restaurant is Gambino’s Original Italian Grill, where you’ll find iconic Italian classics like Fettuccine Alfredo and lasagna alongside distinct original entrees like Seafood Palermo, Pesce Verona, and Veal Rocco.

10 Things to Do in Fairhope

Although not as bustling as Gulf Shores, there are a lot of things to do in Fairhope, so we’re just going to offer a few suggestions to get your creative gears turning. You’ll likely stumble across a few gems of your own along the way!

• The Fairhope Municipal Pier may not immediately seem like a cool place to visit, but with its sweeping views of Mobile Bay, we can’t help but recommend it for a nice stroll or picnic.
• The Tolstoy Park “Hermit Hut” is where you can learn about Henry Stuart, the man who traveled from Idaho to Alabama in search of relief from his debilitating tuberculosis. Originally thought to be dead in a matter of months, Stuart lived another 22 years 
• Downtown Fairhope is a charming business district lined with unique ma and pa shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes where you can amble along enjoying top-tier window shopping and yummy eats.
• While you’re downtown, you may as well check out the French Quarter for a taste of ‘Nawlins. Here, you’ll find specialty shops and art galleries; what more do you need?
• Stop into the Fair Hope Museum of History for a deep dive into the city’s rich cultural heritage.
• Head to the Fairhope Store for fun souvenirs like apparel, tote bags, and coasters.
• If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a bike at the Fairhope Store and cruise around town or the Eastern Shore Trail.
• Take in some live music brought to you by Live at Five at Fairhope’s premier venue, The Halstead Amphitheater.
• Pay a visit to Warehouse Bakery & Donuts for some sweet treats like cupcakes, cookies, and, of course, DONUTS!
• If you’re there on a Friday, indulge in some local beers and take a tour at the Fairhope Brewing Company.

Gulf Shores Luxury Hotels, Condos, and Vacation Rentals

Going from Gulf Shores to Fairhope is a fun side mission when staying with Brett/Robinson. It’s so much fun, in fact, that you may find yourself visiting more than once. As much as we love our coastal community, all we really care about is knowing you had a blast wherever you go! So what are you waiting for? Visit us online, browse our rentals, and plan your coastal getaway today!