Top 9 Free Things to Do in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores

Pro tip: For a more comfortable visit, make sure to bring water, sunscreen, and insect repellent.

2. The Foley Model Railroad Museum

Ih you're a train enthusiast, or just a curious type, this hidden gem showcases intricate miniature worlds. The museum houses one of the largest model railroad displays in the southeastern United States, spanning an impressive 24,000 square feet.


⭐ Highlights:

• Meticulously crafted landscapes recreating scenes of America's bygone railroad era.
  
  
• The main HO-scale layout features over 100 scale miles of track, while a separate G-scale display adds whimsy with giant figurines.
  
  
• Volunteer engineers keep the trains running smoothly, often sharing fascinating railroad history tidbits.
  
  
• Interactive elements, like pressing buttons to activate lights, sounds, and moving parts throughout the displays.
  
  
• I Spy" game that challenges visitors to find hidden details.
  
  
• Impressive collection of railroad memorabilia, vintage toys, and local artifacts.
  
  
• Themed areas transport visitors through different eras and regions of American history.
  
  
  

3. The Orange Beach Waterfront Park

This scenic 5.5-acre park offers stunning views of Cotton Bayou and Wolf Bay without costing you a penny.


⭐ Highlights:

• Expansive playground featuring climbing structures, swings, and slides. 
  
  
• Paved walking path winding through the park, perfect for strolls or jogs while enjoying waterfront breezes.
  
  
• 400-foot fishing pier extending into Wolf Bay —It's an excellent spot to catch speckled trout, redfish, and flounder.
  
  
• Cleaning stations for your catch, making it convenient for impromptu picnics.
  
  
• Covered pavilions equipped grills offer shaded spots for outdoor meals.
  
  
• Butterfly garden, attracting colorful insects and providing educational signage about native plants.
  
  
• Benches throughout the park invite relaxation and dolphin-watching – keep your eyes peeled for fins breaking the water's surface.
  
  
• Free events throughout the year, including concerts and holiday celebrations.
  
  
• Ample parking 

Pro tip: Consider packing binoculars to observe shorebirds and boats in the distance. Sunrise and sunset are particularly magical times to visit, offering spectacular photo opportunities.

4. Magnolia Cemetery

historic graveyard dating back to 1908

Magnolia Cemetery in Foley, just a short ride from Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, is a historic graveyard dating back to 1908 and offers a fascinating glimpse into Gulf Shores' past.


⭐ Highlights:

• Old and new gravestones telling unique stories. 
  
  
• Ornate Victorian-era monuments and simple, weathered markers alike.
  
  
• Towering magnolia trees provide shade and photo ops for visitors.
  
  
• Self-guided tours to learn about prominent citizens buried here and uncover forgotten tales.
  
  
• Tranquil atmosphere inviting quiet reflection.
  
  
• Excellent destination for those interested in genealogy, local history, or simply enjoying a contemplative stroll.

Heads up: Remember to be respectful of this sacred space and follow any posted guidelines. 

5. Alabama's Coastal Connection

This free activity is one of my favorites: exploring the natural beauty and cultural riches of Alabama's Gulf Coast along the Alabama Coastal Connection Scenic Byway. 

This 130-mile route winds through charming coastal communities, showcasing stunning vistas and hidden treasures. Start your journey in Grand Bay and meander south to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. The scenic drive itself costs nothing, allowing you to create a personalized coastal adventure on any budget.

⭐ Highlights:

• Along the way, you'll encounter diverse landscapes - pristine beaches, lush wetlands, and maritime forests.
  
  
• Plenty of opportunity to spot wildlife like herons, alligators, and even bottlenose dolphins.
  
  
• The byway passes by numerous free attractions, including public beaches, nature preserves, and historic sites.
  
  
• Stop at Bayou La Batre to see shrimp boats and absorb the area's maritime heritage.
  
  
• In Dauphin Island, visit the Audubon Bird Sanctuary for excellent birdwatching opportunities.
  
  
• As you approach Gulf Shores, pause at Gulf State Park's public beaches or interpretive center.
  
  

Pro tip: Pack a picnic, bring your camera, and prepare to be amazed by Alabama's coastal wonders.

6. The Civil War Trail

Delve into Alabama's Civil War history by following the Gulf Coast area's Civil War Trail. This self-guided tour takes you to significant sites that played a role in the conflict, offering a deeper understanding of the region's past. 

The trail offers history enthusiasts a chance to walk in the footsteps of soldiers and civilians who experienced this tumultuous period firsthand


⭐ Highlights:

• Begin your journey at Fort Morgan, a star-shaped fortress that guarded Mobile Bay. Though entrance to the fort requires a fee, you can view its impressive exterior and nearby batteries for free.
  
  
• Continue to Blakeley State Park, site of the last major battle of the Civil War. While park admission is charged, you can explore the surrounding area and read informative markers about the battle.
  
  
• In Mobile, visit the Confederate Rest and Magnolia cemeteries, final resting places for many Civil War soldiers. These graveyards provide poignant reminders of the conflict's human toll.

Pro tip: As you travel between sites, keep an eye out for historical markers detailing lesser-known events and skirmishes.

7. The Orange Beach Indian & Sea Museum

This fascinating museum offers you a glimpse into the rich history of Orange Beach. Located in a 1910 schoolhouse, it showcases artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Native American tribes who once inhabited the area.

⭐ Highlights:

• Impressive collection of arrowheads, pottery shards, and other archaeological finds that shed light on indigenous cultures.
  
  
• The maritime section of the museum featuring displays of vintage fishing equipment, boat models, and photographs documenting the evolution of the local fishing industry.
  
  
• Extensive shell collection, featuring specimens gathered along the Alabama coast.
  
  
• Historical documents, maps, and personal accounts that bring Orange Beach's past to life.
  
  
• Knowledgeable volunteers staff ready to answer questions and share interesting facts about the exhibits.

8. The Orange Beach Arts Center

Art enthusiasts will love the Orange Beach Arts Center, a hub of creativity in the heart of the city. This free attraction showcases the talents of local and regional artists through rotating exhibitions. The gallery space features a diverse array of mediums, including paintings, sculptures, photography, and mixed media works.

⭐ Highlights:

• Special events and art shows that highlight different themes or artistic styles.
  
  
• Art classes and workshops for all ages and skill levels.
  
  
• Demonstrations and talks are available to the public (sometimes they may come with a fee).
  
  
• Many exhibits and programs explore themes related to coastal life, Gulf Coast ecosystems, and the region's history.
  
  
• The Arts Center's gift shop features handcrafted items by local artisans.

9. Escape To The Beaches

The pristine beaches of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are the ultimate free escape into nature's beauty. Miles of soft, white sand stretch along the Gulf of Mexico, inviting you to relax, play, and explore. 

⭐ Highlights:

•  Sandcastle building.
  
  
• Seashells collecting.
  
  
• Swimming and bodysurfing. 
  
  
• Long walks or jogs.
  
  
• Frisbee or beach ball for some active fun on the sand.
  
  
• Wildlife watching — dolphins often swim close to shore, and seabirds like pelicans, gulls, and terns usually soar overhead or hunt for fish in the surf.

While both cities offer beautiful beaches, Gulf Shores tends to be more family-oriented and budget-friendly. It features more casual dining and accommodations. Orange Beach leans upscale, catering to luxury travelers and fishing enthusiasts. Orange Beach has more high-rise condos and resorts, while Gulf Shores maintains a small-town atmosphere despite significant tourism.

Wondering Where to Stay During Your Trip to the Gulf Coast?

With years of experience in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, we at Vacation Homes Collections don’t just know about making the best free attractions in the region — we’re also experts in crafting unforgettable experiences.

Our, vacation rentals, ranging from beachfront homes to high-rise condos, provide the perfect home base for your next Alabama Gulf Coast getaway. When you stay with us, all you need to do is soak in the coastal beauty and let it whisk you away — because it surely will! ✨