DAY TRIPS

BELLINGRATH GARDENS

Take a trip either by Ferry at the Fort Morgan historical site or travel the traditional route across Mobile Bay to Bellingrath Gardens & Home. Created by Walter Bellingrath and his wife are 65-acres of extraordinary blooms reflecting the landscapes of European gardens on a Southern estate. Alabama’s coastal temperatures are inviting to an abundance of flowers in bloom throughout the year and can be enjoyed on the labyrinth of meandering paths.  Plan a trip to the Bellingrath Museum home for a tour rich in history, take a scenic river cruise or visit the estate for one of its many special events, including ‘Magic Christmas in Lights’. A breathtaking display of over 3 million lights and nearly 1,000 displays illuminating the gardens.

GULF COAST EXPLOREUM SCIENCE CENTER & IMAX THEATER

Venture to Mobile, Alabama for a day of family fun and entertainment at the Exploreum. Visitors can experience more than 150 hands-on science adventures in three permanent galleries: Hands on Hall, Wharf of Wonder and My Body Works, the most advanced health exhibit in the nation. Also featured are science demonstrations in the science squad headquarters and films in the larger than life J.L. Bedsole IMAX Dome Theatre.

USS ALABAMA BATTLESHIP MEMORIAL PARK

The USS Alabama, winner of nine battle stars in World War II, was towed more than 1,000 miles to her current mooring on the shores of Mobile Bay and opened to the public on January 9, 1965. Shortly following, in 1969, another World War II vessel joined, the submarine USS Drum. Individually they are considered some of our nation’s most historic warships and together they anchor the core of a fascinating Memorial Park. In addition, the park and the Medal of Honor Aircraft Pavilion are host to a collection of 25 rare and historic aircrafts such as the Mach 3 A-12, Blackbird spy plane, B-52 Calamity Jane and a plane flown by a Tuskegee Airman. Live history and be touched by military pride on this unforgettable adventure!

DOWNTOWN FAIRHOPE

Known as the jewel of the Eastern Shore, Fairhope presents a flower filled downtown shopping district painted with over 80 unique shops, art galleries and a collection of eclectic culinary eateries. This charming, quaint historic town is home of acclaimed public art, festivals, bay front parks and walking trails. The Fairhope Pier, known to locals as the “town square” extends a mile over the Bay and is the perfect location to picnic lunch, feed the ducks or enjoy a coastal sunset.