Gulf Coast: Beaches and Historic Sites in Alabama, From New Orleans

Louis Armstrong New Orleans International (MSY) is accessible from many major destinations. Pick up a rental and head into one of the most historic cities in the South. Although its reputation centers on its festivals and nightlife, New Orleans has something for every interest. Explore the compact French Quarter on foot to see its quintessential landmarks: photo-worthy St. Louis Cathedral and Jackson Square and shopping plus dining at the French Market. Must-see museums include the Cabildo, the Presbytère, the 1850 House and the Jazz Museum. Board the St. Charles Streetcar – the oldest continuously operating streetcar in the USA – and snap pictures of historic districts, stately mansions and oak-lined avenues. Food fanatics of all persuasions will find it impossible to even scratch the surface of what the Crescent City has to offer. Hearty gumbos, spicy jambalaya, seafood-stuffed po’ boys, massive muffaletta sandwiches, sweet pralines and warm beignets are just some of the essential local flavors. When the sun goes down, live music and craft cocktails lure party-goers to the streets. Be sure to rest up for the drive eastward to Mobile. Opt to take the Causeway over Lake Pontchartrain. It’s the longest continuous bridge over water in the world and it adds just a few minutes to your drive.

You might be surprised to know that Mobile – not New Orleans – is where Mardi Gras in America started in 1703. Mobile’s annual celebration lasts for two-and-a-half weeks before Ash Wednesday, so it’s perfectly acceptable to hit the party in New Orleans and Mobile – no judgement! Cultural influences from Mobile’s former French, British and Spanish occupants can be seen throughout the seven National Register Historic Districts. Tour the meticulously furnished 1860 Richards DAR House Museum, the circa-1833 Historic Oakleigh House or the hauntingly beautiful Magnolia Cemetery. For the hungry traveler, Mobile’s food scene won’t disappoint. Whether it’s Southern soul food, fresh-from-the-boat Gulf seafood or tender barbecue, you’re sure to delight in it here. Try Wintzell’s Oyster House for a casual atmosphere, or go upscale with steak and seafood at Dauphin’s – the views of Mobile can’t be beat. Dauphin Street is great for after-hours drinks and dancing. Get up early for a trip into America’s Amazon: the Mobile-Tensaw Delta.

Much to everyone’s amazement, you don’t have to leave the city’s vicinity to feel like you’re a world away. The Mobile-Tensaw Delta is one of the most biologically diverse areas of North America with an astounding range of flora and fauna. With more than 300 species of birds, it’s a bird-watcher’s paradise. Kayakers and canoers can paddle the 300+ kilometer Bartram Canoe Trail, while fishing fans can angle for bass, trout and catfish. Rentals, guided kayak tours and eco-tours via pontoon boat are offered through local vendors by reservation at the 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center. The delta is a perfect half-day outing before driving to Fairhope, just 30 minutes south.

Some might call Fairhope “sleepy.” Perhaps, it is, but in the best possible way. Southern Living called it the Best Small Town in the South in 2016, and you’ll certainly be charmed by this coastal haven. There are hiking, biking and equestrian trails at Historical Blakely State Park, the site of Alabama’s largest Civil War battle. Stroll down Fairhope Avenue, lined with charming shops and boutiques, galleries, cafés and antique stores. It’s the ideal place to pick up a unique souvenir and stop for a bite to eat. Follow Fairhope Avenue to the waterside to watch the sunset on the pier. Splurge on an overnight stay at the the AAA Four Diamond-rated Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection, in the neighboring town of Point Clear. With a luxurious spa, two golf courses, upscale dining and bay views, it’s no wonder it was named the 2015 top resort in Alabama by Travel + Leisure. Relaxed and ready? Good. Time to head on to Foley.

Just a short drive from Mobile Bay, the small town of Foley offers a few quaint attractions – a clever model train exhibit, an old train-depot-turned-museum and tranquil outdoors activities at Graham Creek Nature Preserve – but Foley is a shopper’s paradise, especially for those who love a good bargain. Find deals and discounts galore at Tanger Outlets, featuring name brands such as Nike, Michael Kors, Kate Spade, Under Armour and Coach. If you’re a thrift-store fan, explore the locally owned shops along Foley’s Bargain Hunter’s Thrift Trail. Need to pick up the speed? You’ll find it at OWA Amusement Park, where the rides range from kid-friendly amusements to thrill rides like Rollin’ Thunder, a roller coaster of twists, turns, loops and inversions. You can easily make it to Gulf Shores in the evening to finish out your coastal Alabama tour.

Alabama’s beaches are some of the best in the USA. Just 20 minutes away, you’ll be greeted by sugar white sand beaches and the soothing warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Gulf Shores and nearby Orange Beach are twin resort destinations with plenty of sun and fun throughout the year. Go fishing, hiking, biking, kayaking or swimming at Gulf State Park. To stay overnight here, you can camp or rent cabins near the park’s lake or stay on the beach at The Lodge at Gulf State Park.

Visit in May for a weekend of live music on the beach at the Hangout Music Festival. Socialize with locals and other travelers at a beachfront restaurant with some just-caught seafood and a tropical drink. Traveling with kids? Don’t miss LuLu’s, where the food is served with live music, a ropes course and an arcade right on-site. After sunset, head to the Pink Pony Pub for drinks and nightlife. Tanned and rested, you’ll be ready for your return flight home from New Orleans International.