26 Best & Fun Things To Do In Mobile, AL
The city of Mobile, Alabama, exudes southern charm with its historic residences, charming stores, and rustic way of life.
But there’s a lot more to the city than meets the eye, so don’t be too quick to judge a book by its cover.
Did you know, for instance, that Mardis Gras originated in Mobile?
Did you know that there are still enjoyable, joyous celebrations held locally, ranging from drag performances to parades?
Shopping, eating, drinking, sightseeing, and more are additional activities.
You can put on your hiking boots and go camping in the woods; you can dress up and go to the opera.
Everything is in this city.
1. Mobile Botanical Gardens
Nature’s sights and sounds are often found in the US’s most beautiful spots. But what do you do when you’re in the middle of a busy city like Mobile, Alabama?
The Mobile Botanical Gardens could be a good idea.
The garden is made up of more than 100 acres of flowers, trees, shrubs, and plants. It is right in the middle of Mobile, but the beautiful scenery will take your breath away.
You can also sign up for fun things to do in the gardens, like yoga, art classes, picnics, poetry courses, and flower sales.
The site is also great because it’s open all year and has different plants for each season.
The winter garden has pine trees and holly bushes, while the “rebloom” garden in the spring has flowers, irises, camellias, and fig trees that smell great.
Taiwanese cherries even bloom for a short time in January and February!
If you want to find things to do in Mobile that you can enjoy all year, the Mobile Botanical Gardens are a good choice.
This weekend, you can call them up and ask what’s in bloom right now.
Something always comes up.
Address: 5151 Museum Dr, Mobile, AL 36608, United States
2. Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception
The Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception is one of the oldest Catholic churches on the Gulf Coast. It was built in the early 1800s.
Today, it’s still a great place for religious people, but it’s also open to people who don’t believe in God and just want to see what it’s like inside.
The church is one of the coolest things to do in Mobile for a reason.
There are dozens of painted glass windows on the walls that show different parts of Mary’s life, such as the “Nativity of Jesus” and the “Coronation of Mary, Queen of Heaven.”
There is an old organ in front of each pew for the church.
The church is used for weddings, baptisms, and other events on special days.
You don’t have to be Catholic.
The Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception is beautiful and grand. Anyone can enjoy it, but building fans will really enjoy it the most.
Come see it for yourself in downtown Mobile!
Address: 2 S Claiborne St, Mobile, AL 36602, United States
3. GulfQuest National Maritime Museum of the Gulf of Mexico
At the GulfQuest National Maritime Museum, which is in a metal and glass building right on the water, it’s easy to think it’s a ship.
However, its beautiful design is just the start!
There are almost 100 displays, exhibits, simulators, halls, and theater rooms inside that are all about maritime history and culture.
There are many “decks” of things to do, with everything from educational movies to walks on container ships with fake engines.
The hotel has a restaurant and gift shop where you can get something to eat or buy fun things to remember your trip by.
It’s one of the few places that only shows the past of the Gulf of Mexico and its ships at the GulfQuest National Maritime Museum.
It’s a unique chance for you as a tourist, and crossing it off your list will feel great.
Address: 155 S Water St, Mobile, AL 36602, United States
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4. Spot of Tea
You might see a cute and cozy place like Spot of Tea in a movie about everyday life in New York City.
You don’t have to go all the way to the Big Apple to enjoy it, which is good news.
You can enjoy it in the middle of Mobile, Alabama!
Spot of Tea has a delicious menu with something for everyone, from sweet flatbread sandwiches to filled baked potatoes served with tomato bisque.
As you might expect from a place called “Tea Ceremony,” it has a lot of different kinds of delicious tea.
The shop also has great views of the nearby trees and plants, indoor and outdoor food options, and seating that is pet-friendly.
If you want to know about the best places to visit in Mobile, think about Spot of Tea.
It’s cute and charming, and it serves delicious coffee out of a beautiful old house in the middle of Alabama.
What’s not to love?
Address: 310 Dauphin St, Mobile, AL 36602, United States
5. History Museum of Mobile
The History Museum of Mobile is in the old city hall building. Its stately, off-white design makes it stand out from the rest of the neighborhood.
When seen from downtown Mobile, it really stands out.
The inside is also very nice, just like the outside.
From Egyptian mummies to Native American totem poles, there are a lot of different kinds of displays.
As befits a city museum, there is also a lot of information about the people who helped Mobile become a big city in the state.
There are also tours, classes, workshops, and events for kids.
Every weekend is “Free Sunday,” when there are no fees to get in.
“Night at the Museum” is in the evening and has games, stories, and treasure hunts that the whole family will enjoy.
“Living History Days” even have players in period costumes do things like show how to do laundry and fight with muskets in real life!
If you’re in Mobile and looking for fun things to do, the History Museum of Mobile might be a good choice.
Address: 111 S Royal St, Mobile, AL 36602, United States
6. The Shoppes at Bel Air
The Shoppes at Bel Air are the best place to shop in the south because they are big, wide, and full of different stores.
You might even say they are one of the most interesting places south of the Mason-Dixie line.
What’s so great about this mall?
First, the complex is completely indoors, so you can enjoy it rain or shine.
In terms of square area, it’s more than 1.3 million square feet, which is crazy big. If you want to shop until you drop, this is the place to go.
Another cool thing about the mall is that it has a lot of different stores, including many high-end stores and businesses that you can’t find in Alabama’s rural areas.
With places to shop, eat, and meet new people, the Shoppes at Bel Air is a great place to go on holiday that lives up to its name.
It might not be the real Bel Air, but it’s a lot like the real thing down south!
Address: 3299 Joe Treadwell Dr, Mobile, AL 36606, United States
7. TimberCreek Golf Club
For fun in the country, there’s nothing wrong with small gatherings, but there’s also something to be said for fancy events.
If you’re looking for fancy places to go in Mobile, the TimberCreek Golf Club might be a good choice.
Award-winning planners planned the fairways, which are now very well taken care of.
After a round of golf, there are full-service restaurants, practice areas, and meeting rooms to use.
It’s okay if you’re not a great player.
You can set up lessons or even individual lessons.
For classy vacationers in Alabama, the TimberCreek Golf Club is one of the best places to go.
If you don’t have to worry about money and want to know what to do in the state, spend a relaxing afternoon on the green.
Address: 9650 Timbercreek Blvd, Spanish Fort, AL 36527, United States
8. Cooper Riverside Park
You can still find peace and quiet in places like Cooper Riverside Park if you don’t have time to go into the rough wilds of Alabama.
Cooper Riverside Park is on the water and has three acres of natural beauty that will make you feel like you’re on an island or in a lush botanical garden.
There are beautiful views of the bay, as well as water fountains, experimental outdoor sculptures, and many walks, benches, and other amenities for people who are just passing through.
The park also hosts many events all year long, so if you like fun things like art sales, festivals, and music outside, it might be worth your time to check it out.
Not all things to do in Mobile are flashy.
While you’re on holiday and just want to get away from it all for a while, Cooper Riverside Park can be your urban oasis.
Address: 101 S Water St, Mobile, AL 36602, United States
9. Alabama Contemporary Art Center
What? Things are getting cloudy as you tour the city.
What can you do in Mobile to pass the time and stop getting wet?
One possible answer is the Alabama Contemporary Art Center.
The whole thing is inside, so you won’t get wet or cold.
It’s also interesting, even if you’re not generally very interested in art, so the exhibitions will keep you moving from room to room.
In other words, the art center is not like those old-fashioned museums.
Poetry, music, light, mixed media, and even natural earth elements are used to make cutting edge pieces with a lot of meaning because it only shows modern art.
A quick run under your cover to the Alabama Contemporary Art Center is what you should do in Mobile on a rainy day.
The cool art on it is sure to stick with you, so it will be a fun way to remember your trip to the south.
Address: 301 Conti St, Mobile, AL 36602, United States
10. Airboat Adventures
Take a trip down the Mobile-Tensaw River Delta to get away from the city.
When you go on an Airboat Adventure, you can have a fun and different time on a powered airboat while you take in the sights.
What will you see in the water?
It depends on the time of year, but because there is so much wildlife in the delta, it could be eagles, gators, bears, birds, turtles, and more.
Since you’ll be in an airboat, there won’t be any screens blocking your view. You’ll be able to see the animals in real life while the wind blows through your hair and the water splashes against your face.
Aside from fishing, you can also go on bow fishing tours with the airboats. Plan an all-inclusive trip to catch a flounder or two.
You don’t need to have any experience; the captain can teach you as you go.
Airboat Adventures lets you say goodbye in a beautiful way, but all trips have to end at some point.
One last time, blow a kiss to the beach and look out at the faraway sight of Mobile.
If you’re lucky, an alligator will swim by and give you a great story about your trip when you get back home.
Address: 3775 Battleship Pkwy, Spanish Fort, AL 36527, United States
11. Braided River Brewing Company
One of the greatest places to go in Alabama if you prefer your beer cool is the Braided River Brewing Company.
It is located in an industrial structure just a short distance from the waterfront and is the epitome of a stylish, urban brewery, as evidenced by its clientele.
If you like to take pictures of your thick-bottomed beer cup before you take a swallow of the nectar inside, you’ll be in the company of like-minded people.
The brewery’s lovely views and constantly evolving drink selection are two more alluring aspects.
While some taproom stalwarts are available year-round, others are seasonal or experimental crafts that are only available sometimes because to the brewmasters’ penchant for change.
According to the Braided River Brewing Company, “there’s no place like the Delta,” and their staff goes above and beyond to give it a unique experience for both visitors and locals.
If you’re searching for entertaining places to visit in Mobile, stop by for a drink and a tale.
Address: 420 St Louis St, Mobile, AL 36602, United States
12. Three Georges Candy
Known to the locals as “Three Georges and the Nuthouse,” this confection is regarded as Alabama’s top candy store.
It’s brimming with chocolates, cheesecakes, truffles, fudges, and a host of other delicious treats that make you think of Willy Wonka at his best.
But there are other items on the menu besides sweets.
If you want some gumbo, you can enjoy a great, sit-down lunch at the restaurant.
If you want a Creole twist, you may also request rice and red beans!
Treat yourself to everything from fruitcake dripping with rum to pretzels dripping with white chocolate after you’ve finished your meal.
After all, candy stores are places to indulge.
Try some snacks from Three Georges Candy if you’re in Mobile and have a sweet tooth and aren’t sure what to do about it.
For chocolate lovers traveling through Mobile, it’s undoubtedly among the top ten destinations.
Address: 226 Dauphin St, Mobile, AL 36602, United States
13. Mobile Flea Market
The Mobile Flea Market, which is open all year round to both locals and visitors, is hailed as the biggest flea market on the Gulf Coast and frequently draws between 700 and 800 sellers at a time.
It can be one of those strange experiences that is equal parts strange and unforgettable if you’re the kind of person who likes to go off the usual route!
There are countless stacks of flea market items, and you never know what you might uncover.
Old rugs and even older recordings are present, along with toys, tools, clothing, and candles.
You can look through bookshelves or search through trunks and boxes for hidden gems.
Every vendor has an own stand, and each stall is a tiny universe unto itself.
You could spend the entire day at the flea market because there are other places to go, such toilets, picnic spots, and half a dozen snack stalls.
To get the first pick of the litter, arrive early. After you’ve built up an appetite, indulge in some funnel cakes or hot dogs!
Why don’t you spend some time at the Mobile Flea Market if you’re searching for interesting things to do while visiting Alabama?
It will undoubtedly be a fun way to spend your time in the city because you may leave with anything from intricate floral arrangements to old dollhouses.
Address: 401 Schillinger Rd N, Mobile, AL 36608, United States
14. Wales West Light Railway
The Wales West Light Railway is one of Mobile’s most visited tourist destinations, despite not being physically situated there.
Every year, people swarm to the railroad to enjoy entertaining seasonal excursions like the “Arctic Express” and the “Pumpkin Patch.”
From a distance it would appear to be an oversize toy.
As it chugs along the tracks, it frequently lets out enthusiastic toots from its horn and is painted in a vibrant, upbeat jumble of colors.
But it’s a real railway, and each year it gives families wonderful memories.
You and your children can have a good time on the Wales West Light Railway if you’re searching for family-friendly activities in Mobile.
Address: 13670 Smiley St, Silverhill, AL 36576, United States
15. Crescent Theater
A classic way to see a fantastic movie is at the Crescent Theater, which is situated in downtown Mobile’s entertainment zone.
It features a single screen, making it a very intimate experience, and luxurious recliner seats to keep you comfortable while you munch on popcorn, wine, beer, and other snacks.
The selection of films is varied.
In addition to indie or foreign films, there are occasionally well-known blockbusters.
Local productions are consistently well-liked.
Seasonal movies take center stage throughout the holidays, so Halloween is filled with slashers and Christmas is filled with heartwarming family stories.
Crescent theatrical occasionally hosts live theatrical performances, so if you want to experience some culture while visiting Alabama, this might be the place for you!
While there are plenty of things to do in downtown Mobile, moviegoers should make time to visit the Crescent Theater.
There’s a reason it’s a local landmark.
Address: 208 Dauphin St, Mobile, AL 36602, United States
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16. Chickasabogue Park
Chickasabogue Park is a stunning Alabama tourist destination, with towering trees rising over the tops of foggy lakes.
Because of its extensive range of outdoor sports and activities, it is also one of the state’s most popular tourist destinations.
Active people can play disc golf, launch a boat, or ride a bike.
There are numerous nature trails through the woods and along the water for those who would rather travel the beautiful route.
Birdwatchers can listen to songs from sunrise to sunset; photographers can capture breathtaking images; and campers can take in breathtaking night skies.
Even history enthusiasts will find something to enjoy: One of Mobile’s main attractions for history buffs is its on-site museum, which covers everything from the area’s Native American heritage to its African American community.
One of the best things about Mobile is that you may spend your holiday in both a city and a country setting.
All you need to do is determine where to go when you want to experience that specific ambiance.
For the “outdoor” category, include Chickasabogue Park on your agenda!
Address: 760 Aldock Rd, Eight Mile, AL 36613, United States
17. Colonial Fort Conde
Built in the 1700s, Colonial Fort Conde is one of the oldest of Mobile’s attractions, and it’s changed hands many times over the years with different French, Spanish and British powers.
Thus, it has had many names over the years. It has been called Fort Charlotte, Fort Louis, Fuerta Carlota, and the Fort of Colonial Mobile.
On tours of the fort, you can see both the original, partially rebuilt sections and the fully copied sections that have been built at a 4/5ths size.
People can also walk around the grounds and check out nearby places of interest and conveniences, such as the History Museum of Mobile, Mardi Gras Park, and the old Mobile County Courthouse.
A real fort that is hundreds of years old is the most real thing you can find.
Colony Fort Conde is a must-see for anyone interested in Mobile’s military past.
Address: 150 S Royal St, Mobile, AL 36602, United States
18. USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park
One of Mobile’s most popular tourist attractions is the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park.
Despite being named after its iconic battleship, it also has a lot of historical and military-themed tourist attractions, such as a submarine from World War II.
Tanks, bombers, missiles, fighter planes, and a variety of military artifacts, including the recognizable “skysweeper” cannons from the 1950s, are among the other attractions.
The planes flown by the Tuskegee Airmen are among the military machines with fascinating histories.
Explore the museum’s various interactive displays or take a tour of the grounds to get the most out of your visit.
You can attend a concert, blood drive, sporting event, or holiday festival if you plan your trip appropriately. The grassy park also hosts a number of local community activities.
Whether you’re visiting Mobile this weekend or next summer, it makes no difference.
At the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park, there’s always something entertaining to see!
Address: 2703 Battleship Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36603, United States
19. Mobile Museum of Art
The Mobile Museum of Art is among the top attractions in Mobile for those seeking culture.
It hosts a variety of visiting and rotating exhibits in addition to its more than 6,000 permanent pieces.
Some of its oldest artifacts are thousands of years old!
What does the museum have to offer?
There are countless options.
There are ceramics and sculptures, glass art and wood cutting, paintings, portraits, and art prints.
You’ll discover something that captures the eye, whether you’re interested in shiny metal art installations with contemporary style or antique, meticulously preserved ceramics.
The museum’s creative diversity is yet another fantastic feature.
Although American art makes up the majority of its collection, it also features Asian scrolls and African masks.
To take a walk around the world, you don’t need to travel overseas.
You can have a tiny, convenient, worldwide experience with the Mobile Museum of Art.
Address: 4850 Museum Dr, Mobile, AL 36608, United States
20. Gator Boardwalk
Address: N Main St, Daphne, AL 36526, United States
21. Meaher State Park
It’s interesting that Meaher State Park, which isn’t even inside Mobile’s municipal borders, is one of the most well-known attractions in the city because to its famous wooden boardwalk.
Actually, it’s a little drive to the east that crosses the lake and enters the marshes.
But once you’re there, you’ll see why so many people from Mobile and beyond visit the park.
It’s a great place to go boating, fishing, camping, having a picnic, and more.
While some locations are approved recreational areas with facilities like restrooms and ramps, others are more challenging and intended for serious trekkers who want to explore the 1,300 acres of surrounding natural splendor.
You might wish to take a stroll along the boardwalk.
Perhaps you would want to lie under the stars or swim in the sun.
Meaher State Park should unquestionably be on your shortlist of Alabama’s top tourist destinations.
Address: 5200 Battleship Pkwy E, Spanish Fort, AL 36527, United States
22. Mardi Gras
Make time for some incredibly fun events if you’ll be in Alabama in March or April, as you can’t visit the birthplace of Mardi Gras without witnessing it live and in color!
A number of parade days precede the major event, which kicks off the celebration in early spring.
Smaller events are also common and can range from family-friendly festivals to nights at bars and clubs just for adults.
On Mardi Gras day, you can enjoy food, drink, music, art, fashion, and more almost anyplace in the city.
The floats can be seen from all major locations and will snake for miles.
A Mardi Gras celebration is a necessity when it comes to Mobile attractions.
Naturally, you must be in town at the appropriate time, but other than that, you simply must experience it at least once in your lifetime.
Plan now to ensure you’re ready for the biggest celebration this spring!
Address: Mobile, AL, United States
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23. Mobile Carnival Museum
The Mobile Carnival Museum is the greatest option if you are unable to visit Mobile during Mardi Gras.
You may experience all of the dazzling splendor of the most well-known festivals in the world at the Mobile Carnival Museum without ever leaving Alabama.
It is the only museum of its sort in the world and honors both Carnival and Mardi Gras.
The costumes and crowns of previous pageant queens are on display, as is classic flapper attire.
Relevant subjects like float building and costume design are covered in educational presentations.
Masks, robes, suits, scepters, and jester attire are among the many costumes on display.
Videos from previous parades are available, as are pictures from as far back as 1886.
You may even launch doubloons off floats at several of the activities!
A visit to the Mobile Carnival Museum is unquestionably “yes” for your next travel plans because it’s one of the most unusual things to do in Mobile.
Address: 355 Government St, Mobile, AL 36602, United States
24. Dauphin Street
A little Alabama town may not be the first place that springs to mind when you think about nightlife.
However, Dauphin Street will make you feel more like you’ve arrived in the center of New Orleans than Mobile.
The sidewalks are lined with colorful residences.
People are rushing about with shopping bags, dogs, and children as trendy businesses offer everything from bubble tea to beignets.
However, Dauphin Street truly begins to embrace the Mardis Gras atmosphere at night.
The glistening lights of pubs, clubs, taverns, dance halls, and more will illuminate the darkness.
You can take in live blues music at a cigar bar or go to a drag show.
There are countless options.
Dauphin Street is the place to go if you’re wondering what to do in Mobile after the sun sets.
The best part is that downtown Mobile is just getting started.
For the next street and the next adventure, round the corner!
Address: Dauphin St, Mobile, AL, United States
25. Mobile Opera
The Mobile Opera is not a destination; it is based out of a local music center.
The place isn’t even a tourist destination.
Rather, it’s an opportunity: It’s the chance to witness authentic, southern-style “opry” vocalists performing live.
Venues and show hours change, so you should visit their website to see what’s available.
While tickets for popular events may need to be bought months in advance, some may be a last-minute weekend date night suggestion for couples.
The Mobile Opera’s claim that it is “more than music” is unquestionably accurate.
Live entertainment is the culmination of a whole cultural experience.
Make time for the opera if you want to claim to have seen the South firsthand while in Alabama.
Address: 257 Dauphin St, Mobile, AL 36602, United States
26. Oakleigh Garden Historic District
Have you ever wished you could watch the azaleas blossom while enjoying sweet tea on a covered porch?
If so, you’ve come to the ideal location for fulfilling your enjoyable antebellum dreams.
Grand, exquisite, southern-style houses are the focus of the Oakland Garden Historic District, one of numerous historic districts in this region of Alabama.
The most “modern” were constructed in the 1940s, while the oldest were constructed in the 1820s.
They all had the grandeur and splendor that were expected of hat-wearing ladies and suit-wearing gentlemen who wanted to flaunt their money, even though each has a unique architectural style.
Families still remain in this residential neighborhood, which is devoid of any real activities.
You are welcome to stroll around and take in the sights, though.
Many tourists do!
The Oakleigh Garden Historic District is one of the greatest sites to see in Mobile if you want a taste of classic southern charm, regardless of your interests in culture, history, high society, or just stylish residences.
Address: 300 Oakleigh Pl, Mobile, AL 36604, United States
27. Alabama Pecan Festival
The Alabama Pecan Festival honors the conclusion of the season for the favorite nut in the South and is held annually in November.
Hundreds of people attend the two-day event in Mobile.
The whole family may discover amusement and activities that are age-appropriate thanks to the rides, games, concerts, tournaments, and other events.
Nobody ever gets bored.
And nobody goes hungry.
Only a small percentage of the vendors selling delectable pecan-based foods on the streets actually manufacture the typical pies and pastries you might expect.
Some chefs use pecans in quite inventive ways!
Did we mention that admission to the Alabama Pecan Festival is free?
There is no fee to enter.
The only expenses you have are for the food and games you play.
This event may keep both your wallet and your belly big if you’re looking for things to do on a tight budget.
Address: 5055 Carol Plantation Rd, Mobile, AL 36619, United States
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