Discover Free Adventures
Enjoy a budget-friendly vacation in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach with free activities for families and couples. From beaches to museums, explore these attractions near Gulf Shores Alabama hotels.
Top Free Things to Do in Gulf Shores
- Relax at Gulf Shores public beach accesses (#1–#5)
- Stroll the Gulf State Park fishing pier
- Hike the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail
Orange Beach Free Attractions
- Visit Orange Beach Waterfront Park
- Walk the beach at Phoenix East
- Enjoy Tacky Jacks’ dockside atmosphere
Suggested Free Itinerary
- Morning walk along Gulf Shores beach
- Mid-day picnic at Gulf State Park beach pavilion
- Sunset at Gulf Shores Fishing Center boardwalk
Free Activity Highlights
Escape To The Beaches
Enjoy sunrise strolls or build sandcastles on Gulf Shores’ public beaches, steps from Gulf Shores condos.
Orange Beach Waterfront Park
Relax on Wolf Bay with paths and a pier, perfect for sunset photos near Gulf Shores Alabama resorts.
Orange Beach Arts Center
Visit Alabama’s only public glass-blowing studio and try pottery in the Clay Gallery.
Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail
Hike 15+ miles of paved trails through dunes and butterfly gardens, near your rental.
Orange Beach Indian & Sea Museum
Explore fishing history in a restored schoolhouse with local artifacts.
Foley Model Railroad Museum
Discover model train displays in Foley’s historic depot, a short drive away.
Holmes Medical Museum
Step into Baldwin County’s first hospital with vintage medical gear and ghostly tales.
Gulf Shores Museum
Learn about shrimpers and local history through interactive exhibits.
Baldwin County Heritage Museum
Explore farming artifacts and a working windmill on five acres.
Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge
Spot wildlife on 7,000 acres of trails and beaches, perfect for nature lovers.
National Naval Aviation Museum
Discover historic aircraft in Pensacola’s massive free museum, an hour from your rental.
Civil War Trail
Hike historic battlefields and riverbanks where Civil War troops marched.
Magnolia Cemetery
Explore Victorian-era sculptures and historic graves of notable figures.
Alabama Coastal Birding Trail
Spot colorful migratory birds across two counties with binoculars and a camera.
Alabama's Coastal Connection
Drive a scenic byway with forts, shell mounds, and stunning Gulf Coast views.