As the days grow warmer and the sun lingers a little longer, spring break calls for adventure, relaxation and making the most of the Gulf Coast's best attractions.
Whether you're craving outdoor …
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Whether you're craving outdoor exploration, up-close encounters with wildlife or family-friendly fun, Baldwin County has something for everyone. With the results of the Best of Baldwin 2025 contest in (with the entire list found at www.gulfcoastmedia.com/bestof/), locals and visitors alike now have a definitive guide to the top spots for an unforgettable spring break.
Spanning 28 miles through Gulf State Park, this multi-use trail connects Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, offering a scenic journey through diverse ecosystems. The trail features nine distinct environments, including salt marshes, pine forests and wetlands, providing a chance to encounter local wildlife like deer, birds and alligators.
In addition to walking and biking, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities along the trail, such as birdwatching, fishing and picnicking. The trail's accessibility makes it suitable for cyclists, joggers and walkers alike. Along the way, guests can stop at points of interest like the Butterfly Garden and the Nature Pavilion, which provides educational displays on local flora and fauna.
The path follows old logging roads used by settlers, including the mysterious Catman Road, a popular legend tied to the area. Guided tours are available, allowing participants to learn about the park's history, ecosystems and wildlife from knowledgeable guides.
Alligator Alley in Summerdale offers a unique adventure where visitors can observe and interact with rescued alligators in a safe, natural setting.
Founded in 2004 by Wes Moore, Alligator Alley is home to more than 600 alligators, all of which were relocated from areas where they were considered "nuisance animals." These reptiles had lost their natural fear of humans, making them a potential danger. Rather than being euthanized, they have been given a second chance at life in a controlled, safe environment.
Visitors begin their self-guided tour on an elevated boardwalk, offering a bird's-eye view of the alligators sunbathing, nesting and swimming below. Along the way, you may spot other native wildlife, including turtles, ospreys, owls and bullfrogs. The highlight for many is the opportunity to hold a baby alligator in the air-conditioned gator station — perfect for a memorable photo op.
For those seeking a more interactive experience, feeding times take place daily at 11 a.m., 1 and 4 p.m. Guests can even purchase alligator chow to feed the reptiles under the guidance of trained staff. The park is family-friendly, handicap accessible and features a shaded picnic area for visitors to enjoy a break.
The center features two 18-hole miniature golf courses, a high-speed go-kart track, batting cages, an arcade and more.
Mini-golf lovers can choose between two courses. The Seaside Course takes players through a cave and past waterfalls, offering scenic views along the way. The Creekside Course is designed to feel more like a traditional golf experience with fewer gimmicks but just as much fun.
My family tried both courses this past weekend and had a blast. I got a hole-in-one on the very first hole of the Creekside Course (with my luck running out soon after), and while both courses were fun, I preferred the Creekside Course for its classic golf feel. The Seaside Course, however, had plenty of fun sights along the way, making both a great experience. We'll be back for sure.
Creekside's go-kart track is one of the longest and most advanced in Alabama. Designed for all skill levels, it's perfect for families or competitive racers. After mini-golf or racing, the arcade offers a variety of classic and modern games.
New features are being added, with batting cages coming soon. The facility is conveniently located near major attractions like OWA, Foley Sports Complex and the Tanger Outlet Mall.
Waterville USA offers 20 acres of water slides, amusement rides and escape rooms just minutes from the beach. With a mix of adrenaline-pumping attractions and family-friendly fun, this park has been a staple of the area since 1986.
While the water park opens in mid-May, the amusement park is already in full swing. Visitors can enjoy Nascart go-karts, a 36-hole miniature golf course, a trampoline launch pad, an arcade and the Flowrider surf simulator. Attractions are pay-per-ride, allowing guests to customize their visit without an admission fee.
Waterville USA also features the Escape House, where players have 60 minutes to solve puzzles and uncover hidden clues to escape the room. The experience is designed for groups of two to eight people, making it a great activity for families, friends or team-building events.
The park hosts birthday parties, corporate outings and private events.
OWA Parks & Resort delivers nonstop fun with theme-park rides, water attractions, live entertainment and shopping, all within a close drive to Alabama's beaches.
The highlight of OWA is Tropic Falls, an indoor water park with a convertible glass roof that creates a tropical paradise year-round. The park features towering 75-foot water slides and Big Water Bay, a massive wave pool with a surf simulator. Just outside, the theme park offers 23 rides, from high-speed roller coasters to family-friendly attractions.
Beyond the amusement park, Downtown OWA provides a lively mix of dining, shopping and entertainment. Guests can catch a performance at the OWA Theater or Brandon Styles Theater, enjoy flyBAMA helicopter tours or even try their hand at pickleball at the new indoor center.
OWA is open seven days a week. Visitors are encouraged to check the website for the latest hours, events and special offers.
So what are you waiting for? Get out there and explore!
