No matter what your group is interested in, there is an option for you that won’t break the bank, so you’re sure to find something just moments from our rentals in Gulf Shores!

While vacationing can be fun and will create priceless memories, it’s easy to get overwhelmed at the cost of traveling. Between reaching your destination, picking a place to stay, and paying for food and activities, the dollar signs can grow quickly! Luckily, Gulf Shores is packed full of budget-friendly attractions for the whole family to enjoy.

Fort Morgan Historic Site & Military Musuem

History buffs and lovers of the great outdoors should definitely plan a trip to the Fort Morgan Historic Site. Sitting right at the end of Fort Morgan Peninsula, this masonry fort has guarded the entrance to Mobile Bay for over 160 years, playing a crucial role in conflicts from the Civil War to WWII. You can explore the fort's architecture, tunnels, and gun placements, all while enjoying spectacular views of the Bay and the Gulf. Though there is an admission fee to enter the fort itself, exploring the grounds, the nearby beach access, and checking out the adjacent military museum are all free activities worth your time. The museum dives deeper into the area's defense history with artifacts and exhibits. Fort Morgan is located at 51 State Highway 180. Check their official site for current hours.

Gulf Shores Museum

To escape the heat and learn a little about the area, head to Gulf Shores Museum. Originally, this establishment was located in a historic home on West Beach, but following 1979’s Hurricane Frederic, it was donated to the city and had multiple uses before becoming the museum we know today. You’ll also find a gorgeous steeple with a 40-foot mast. Admission is free, as are the multiple events held throughout the year. Find them on Facebook for a full calendar of all the happenings. Gulf Shores Museum is located at 244 W. 19th Avenue. They are open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

Gulf Shores Public Beach

Perhaps the most obvious free activity on Gulf Shores is the beach! This area is full of incredible public beaches for you to spread your towel and enjoy the sunshine. Gulf Shores itself has lots of public access locations, and many of them featuring free parking, including 2nd Street Public Beach, Cotton Bayou, and Romar Beach. Other access points like the Gulf State Park Pavilion Area and Gulf Shores Public Beach charge a small fee for all-day parking. You can also head to nearby destinations like Orange Beach, Perdido Key, or Fort Morgan for even more each access. Beaches are perfect for boating, swimming, and tanning, but they’re particularly great for bird watching, especially if you arrive early. You’re likely to spot species like blue herons, brown pelicans, and maybe even a bald eagle! 

The Wharf 

Head down the shore to Orange Beach to experience The Wharf, a shopping and dining pavilion that’s an experience all its own. While there is certainly the opportunity to spend money here, you can have just as much fun window shopping and enjoying live music and a breathtaking view. The Wharf Amphitheater holds some incredible concerts, while the Marina gives you the best access to the water. You can also check out the Ferris Wheel, arcade, and so much more. The Wharf is located at 23101 Canal Road. Hours may vary by shop.

Even More to Explore!

These are just a few of the great free activities near our Gulf Shores beach house rentals. Other great options include the numerous parks for the kids to enjoy, or the museums dedicated to everything from aviation to medicine to railroads and more. Head to a wildlife refuge to get close to magnificent wildlife or see if there’s a fun festival happening while you’re in town. The possibilities are truly endless, and they prove that you don’t need to break the bank to have an unforgettable vacation!