Things to Do

Explore

With our 28 miles of nature trails, the lake, and all the wildlife we have to offer, exploring Gulf State Park holds endless possibilities to escape the hectic pace of your daily life and find relaxation in peaceful surroundings.
Did you forget your bike, kayak, or just prefer not to travel with them? You can rent these, as well as paddleboards and canoes, at:

If you find that adventure is calling your name and you want to explore further, the city of Gulf Shores and the adjacent cities offer a variety of activities for you and your family to enjoy:

Admire

Many artists have found thier way to Gulf Shores and now call our city home. Examples of their work can be found throughout the gulf, whether they are displayed in the hotels and restaurants along the gulf or in the artists own personal shop. To get a closer look at their talents, we recommend visiting:

  • Gulf Coast Arts Alliance where you can view and purchase artwork from our local artists, as well as participate in art classes that focus on photography, watercolor, acrylics, pastels, and pottery.
  • Coastal Arts Center where you can view work from local artists, beautifully on display in a museum like setting, as well as find that perfect piece for your home in their on-site shop. While on their grounds, visit The Hot Shop to make your own hand blown glass creation or The Clay Studio to get behind the wheel and make your own unique pottery design.

Learn

While staying in Gulf State Park, we hope that you experience something new with each visit. If you are like us and believe that knowledge is power, you may enjoy taking in some of the free educational programs we offer throughout the park. These programs focus on subjects such as the nine ecosystems found in Gulf Shores, the history and culture of our city, the flora, fish, and wildlife you may encounter as you travel the park, and the sustainability efforts that are being made to help reduce our carbon footprint on the planet.

  • The Learning Center, located near the park headquarters
  • The Nature Center, located within the campground
  • Interpretive Center, located next to the pavilion
  • Butterfly Garden, located in the middle of the park and active from Spring to Fall
  • Educational Pier, located along the beach