5 Things to Do with Kids in Gulf Shores, AL


The Wharf in Orange Beach has plenty of things to do with kids!


If you’re planning a vacation to Orange Beach, Alabama, the options of things to do seems endless, especially when it comes to the little ones in your group.

Sitting on the beach all day is definitely allowed (and encouraged!), but if you want to venture into the range of kid-friendly attractions along the Gulf Coast, this list is for you!


From adrenaline-pumping attractions to wild animal encounters, these activities are guaranteed to make them look up from their phones and enjoy every memory-making moment!


Get Wild at The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo (lovingly known as The Little Zoo that Could) is moving and opens at its new location in mid-November of 2019. Enjoy the 25 acres of natural beauty featuring more than 600 animals. Plan to dine in the new restaurant, the Safari Club Gulf Shores and don’t miss out on the unique up-close animal encounters. Start planning your trip to the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo.

Play at The Wharf

If you have little ones, The Wharf has plenty of ways to entertain them (hello Build-a-Bear, movie theater, giant boats coming through the Intracoastal, and kid-friendly restaurants), but it’s that tall, shiny Ferris Wheel, the choo choo of the train, and the draw of a round of putt putt golf that really gets them excited. Get a combo pass for only $12 so that they can do all three!

Want an even bigger thrill? Soak up some amazing views of the Gulf Coast and really get your heart racing as you fly from tower to tower on the Hummingbird Zipline course at The Wharf. Make your reservation before you go!

Get more information on things to do with kids at The Wharf at ALWharf.com.

Escape Before Time Expires

If you’ve never been to an escape room before, your family vacation is the perfect time to try it! Family bonding? Check. Serious fun? Yep. Thrilling adventure? You’ve got it! Try Breakout Games in Orange Beach for a variety of themed rooms with plenty of twists and turns.

Head to the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail

Weaving through Gulf State Park in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry trail offers more than 15 miles of trails for biking, hiking, riding segways, birding, and more! Guests of the trail will find a butterfly garden and pavilion, a kid’s boulder park, unique flora and fauna, plus plenty of animals along the way. Visit BackcountryTrail.com for a trail map.

Hit the Arcades

If you need to beat the heat, beat the rain, or are just looking for come competitive fun, an arcade day (or night) is the way to go! Try Arena The Next Level at The Wharf, Fat Daddy’s Arcade, or Adventure Island for fun and games including modern day favorites and the classics you remember from your childhood.

There are plenty of things to do with kids in Orange Beach, AL! Don’t forget our favorites: lounging by the pool, doing nothing on the beach, and enjoying fabulous Orange Beach events. Are you ready to start planning your Orange Beach vacation? Be sure to check out all of the special savings at WharfCondos.com!