Things to do in Gulf Shores

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Things to Do in Gulf Shores: Family Fun Beyond the Beach

The beach may be the reason most people come to Gulf Shores, but it is definitely not the only thing to do while you are here.

One of the best parts of staying at The Lou is that guests can enjoy a peaceful Fort Morgan setting while still being close enough to Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Foley, and nearby attractions for a full vacation experience. Whether you are traveling with kids, teenagers, extended family, or a group of friends, there are plenty of fun ways to spend a day away from the sand.

Here are a few favorite Gulf Shores area activities to consider during your stay.

Waterville USA

Waterville USA is a classic Gulf Shores family attraction and a great choice when everyone is ready for a full day of fun. With water slides, a wave pool, lazy river, kiddie areas, mini golf, go-karts, arcade games, escape rooms, and more, it is the kind of place where families can spend several hours without running out of things to do.

It is especially good for hot summer days when the kids still want water, but everyone is ready for something different from the beach.

Best for: families, kids, teenagers, waterpark days, and full-day fun.

The Track Family Fun Park

The Track is a great stop for families who want go-karts, mini golf, arcade games, rides, and a little friendly competition. It has several go-kart options, including the multi-level Wild Woody track, along with attractions for younger kids and older thrill-seekers.

This is a good option for an afternoon or evening activity after a slower morning at the beach.

Best for: go-karts, mini golf, arcades, family competition, and mixed-age groups.

Alligator Alley

Alligator Alley in nearby Summerdale is a fun change of pace from the beach. Guests can walk an elevated boardwalk and see alligators and other wildlife in a more natural setting. It is educational, memorable, and different from the typical beach-day activity.

This is a great choice for families who enjoy animals, nature, and something a little adventurous.

Best for: animal lovers, nature outings, kids, and a unique Gulf Coast experience.

Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is another great family-friendly option in Gulf Shores. It is a good daytime activity when you want a break from the beach, especially for younger kids or guests who enjoy animals.

The zoo is also a nice option when you want something structured but not an all-day commitment.

Best for: families, younger kids, animal lovers, and a beach break.

LuLu’s Gulf Shores

LuLu’s is technically a restaurant, but it feels more like an experience. Located on the Intracoastal Waterway, LuLu’s offers food, music, a fun coastal atmosphere, an arcade, and a ropes course.

It is a great place to go when you want dinner to feel like part of the activity, not just a meal.

Best for: families, casual dinner, live music, kids’ activities, and waterfront atmosphere.

The Hangout

The Hangout is another Gulf Shores spot that is more than a restaurant. It is high-energy, beachy, and built around entertainment. Guests can enjoy food, music, games, family activities, and a fun atmosphere right near the public beach area.

If you want a lively Gulf Shores experience, The Hangout is one of the places that captures that vacation energy.

Best for: live music, high-energy atmosphere, families, groups, and beach-town fun.

Historic Fort Morgan

For something closer to The Lou, Historic Fort Morgan is a great activity on the Fort Morgan peninsula. Guests can explore the historic fort, learn about the area’s military history, and enjoy views near the entrance to Mobile Bay.

It is a good option for families, history lovers, or anyone wanting to mix something educational into the trip.

Best for: history, sightseeing, families, and a close-to-Fort-Morgan activity.

The Wharf

The Wharf in Orange Beach is a great place to spend an evening. Guests can walk around, shop, eat, listen to music, ride the Ferris wheel, and enjoy seasonal events or entertainment.

It is a nice option when you want to get out after a beach day but do not necessarily want a packed schedule.

Best for: evening outings, shopping, dining, music, and family entertainment.

Mini Golf and Arcades

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach have several mini golf and arcade options, which makes them perfect for a relaxed vacation tradition. Whether you play one course after dinner or turn it into a full mini golf challenge, it is an easy activity that works for kids, teenagers, adults, and competitive uncles.

Best for: casual fun, family traditions, rainy-day backups, and friendly competition.

A Simple Way to Plan Your Week

A good Gulf Shores vacation does not have to be over-scheduled. The best trips usually include a balance of beach time, relaxing at the house, and a few memorable outings.

A simple plan might look like this:

  • One waterpark or big activity day

  • One animal or nature activity

  • One evening at LuLu’s, The Hangout, or The Wharf

  • One mini golf or arcade night

  • Plenty of unplanned beach and pool time

That balance gives everyone something to look forward to without making the vacation feel rushed.

Enjoy the Best of Both Worlds

Staying at The Lou gives guests a peaceful Fort Morgan home base with close beach access, while still keeping Gulf Shores attractions within reach. You can spend the morning at the beach, take the golf cart for an easy ride, relax at the house, and still plan a fun outing when everyone is ready for something different.

Whether your family loves waterparks, wildlife, go-karts, live music, history, mini golf, or just a good meal that feels like an event, the Gulf Shores area has plenty to enjoy beyond the beach.