mobile alabama tourist attractions

15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Mobile, AL

Written by Lana Law and Lura Seavey Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Set along the Gulf of Mexico at the head of Mobile Bay, Mobile is a historic city with beautiful old homes, lovely squares, and a vibrant cultural scene. This port city is also home to the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park, one of the main attractions along this stretch of coast.

Visitors can spend a day wandering the historic districts, visiting some of the museums, touring Fort Conde or the Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center, or exploring the beaches and small towns along Mobile Bay. Mobile is also known for being the home of the oldest Mardi Gras celebrations in the country, a tradition it still celebrates in a lively fashion each year.

For ideas on places to visit, read through our list of the top attractions and things to do in Mobile, Alabama.

See also: Where to Stay in Mobile

1. Visit the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park

2. explore fort conde, 3. mobile museum of art, 4. history museum of mobile, 5. tour bellingrath gardens and home, 6. gulfquest national maritime museum of the gulf of mexico, 7. gulf coast exploreum science center, 8. richards dar house, 9. experience mardi gras celebrations, 10. tour mobile's historic districts, 11. cathedral basilica of the immaculate conception, 12. oakleigh period museum house, 13. condé-charlotte museum house and the bragg-mitchell mansion, 14. spend a day on mobile bay, 15. the hank aaron childhood home and museum, where to stay in mobile for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in mobile, al, mobile, al - climate chart.

The USS Alabama , a BB-60 battleship nicknamed "the Mighty A," was launched in 1942 and decommissioned after WWII, becoming the centerpiece of Mobile's new veteran's memorial park in 1965. The decks, turrets, mess, berth compartments, bridge, wardroom, and captain's cabin of the USS Alabama are open for tours.

The USS Drum, a historic submarine, is also located in the memorial park and can be toured as well. The park also contains an impressive collection of aircraft including WWII-era craft like a Red-Tail P-51 and Boeing B-52 bomber, as well as a Cold-War A-12 Black Bird spy plane.

Other historic military equipment includes tanks, weapons, and other items from these eras, as well as the Vietnam and Korean wars and Desert Storm conflict. The Battleship Memorial Park is dedicated to Alabama veterans who served from WW II to Operation Desert Storm.

Address: 2703 Battleship Parkway, Mobile, Alabama

Official site: www.ussalabama.com

Built by the French on Mobile Bay in 1702 to defend their colony, the fort was rebuilt in 1723 after a flood, serving as the area's main defense point until 1820. By 1823, all of the fort's buildings had been removed to make way for what is now downtown Mobile, including present-day Theater Street, Government Boulevard, Royal Street, and more. Today's historic fort area covers about one-third of the original space, and was reconstructed using a 4/5 scale to incorporate as many of the features as possible.

Opened in celebration of the nation's bicentennial in 1976, the fort gives tourists a glimpse of life in the fort during the 18th century. The fort also offers fun, family-friendly activities like a colonial-themed photo gallery, a shooting gallery, and a photo set with colonial costumes and props. Visitors can get a copy of the free self-guided walking tour of the grounds and museum by stopping at the Trading Post.

Address: 150 South Royal Street, Mobile, Alabama

Official site: www.colonialmobile.com

The Mobile Museum of Art is located in Mobile's Langan Park . This large facility is home to more than ten thousand works of art, which span a period of 2,000 years. The permanent collection, displayed on a rotating basis due to sheer numbers, features decorative arts, African art, contemporary crafts, and American art.

There is also a large Native American collection, which features both art and artifacts, including baskets, beadwork, textiles, and several early photographs and hand-colored lithographs. Temporary exhibits complement the permanent collection with an ever-changing program.

While most art museums are set up with adults in mind, the Mobile Museum of Art has an entire exhibit hall specifically for kids that is designed to teach youngsters about the elements of art. It includes hands-on exhibits and galleries that engage kids and families. The museum also offers art lessons and workshops for teens and adults, including drawing, clay sculpture, and other media.

Address: 4850 Museum Drive, Mobile, Alabama

Official site: www.mobilemuseumofart.com

The History Museum of Mobile is home to artifacts and exhibits that explore Mobile's fascinating past. Looking back as far as the Native Americans who first inhabited the area, the main exhibits take a journey through time. Through educational displays and artifacts, visitors will learn about the Colonial Period, slavery and the Civil War, Mobile's important role in supporting WWII war efforts, and important events in the Civil Rights Movement. A centerpiece of this exhibit is the 5,000-pound Civil War cannon, which once stood on the decks of the Confederate ship CSS Alabama.

Another interesting collection is found in the Mary Jane Slayton Inge Gallery, which houses a variety of decorative arts and interesting artifacts from Old Mobile's high society, including china, sculptures, and fine crystal. The museum is also home to a unique collection of miniature houses, which depict some of Mobile and Alabama's finest mansions in detail.

Also run by the history museum, the Phoenix Fire Museum on Claiborne Street is housed in the 19th-century firehouse once used by Phoenix Volunteer Fire Company No. 6. This museum includes a gallery with historical information, as well as several restored examples of horse-drawn fire engines and some of the city's first motorized fire-fighting vehicles.

Address: 111 South Royal Street, Mobile, Alabama

Official site: www.museumofmobile.com

The Bellingrath estate occupies 16 acres just outside Mobile and is famous for its fine gardens and historic mansion. In January and February, visitors can enjoy over 400 varieties of camellia, the state flower, and March is a particularly popular time when the garden's 250,000 azaleas bloom. Another special sight are the Cascading Chrysanthemums, in bloom in November.

The 15-room museum home was built in 1935, designed by local architect George B. Rogers. The home's historical significance is in its repurposed elements, many building materials salvaged from other important structures. Features include a brick façade made from the birthplace of Alva Smith Vanderbilt Belmont and iron work from the Southern Hotel before its demolition.

The garage beneath the mansion was converted into the Delchamps Gallery of Boehm Porcelain. Collections feature the work of Edward Marshall Boehm, including many rare and early pieces. The estate also hosts several special events throughout the year, including an Easter egg hunt each spring.

Address: 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road, Theodore, Alabama

Official site: www.bellingrath.org

GulfQuest is home to a wide variety of interactive and educational exhibits, which explore every aspect of the Gulf of Mexico, from its natural habitats and weather to its importance as a maritime trade center. For the youngest visitors, the Junior Mariners play area encourages imagination with costumes, props, and gear that can be used to turn the kid-sized ship into any vessel. Kids will also enjoy the full-wall mural of Mobile Bay, which features movable sea life and boats, so they can create their own scene.

The whole family can enjoy various interactive displays including a steamboat station, navigation game, and the chance to test out navigational skills using a sextant or operate a container ship crane. Other popular things to do include exploring shipwrecks and coral reefs in the submersible simulator and the Take the Helm presentation, which allows a guest to use a boat piloting simulator to navigate Mobile Bay. The museum also offers several multimedia presentations on the area's marine life and history.

Address: 155 South Water Street, Mobile, Alabama

Official site: www.gulfquest.org

Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center is home to interactive science exhibits and an IMAX theater aimed at entertaining and educating young minds. The museum's permanent exhibits cover a variety of topics, including an interactive life science lab where kids can conduct their own experiments while learning about biology and health.

Other areas of the museum look at topics that relate to the Gulf of Mexico, including ocean life and human interaction with nature, like boating and fishing. There is also a play-learning area set aside for kids five years and younger to explore safely. The IMAX theater shows science-based films throughout the day.

Address: 65 Government Street, Mobile, Alabama Official site: www.exploreum.com

Located in the De Tonti Square Historic District, this Italianate townhouse was built in the 1860s for Captain Charles G. Richards and his wife Caroline. Later donated to the city of Mobile, the home was restored in 1973 by the local chapters of the Daughters of the American Revolution and turned into a museum house, which offers daily guided tours and hosts special events.

Highlights include Cornelius chandeliers in the entry and both parlors, a Baccarat crystal chandelier in the formal dining room, four seasons lace ironwork, and delicate Carrara mantels. The home can be rented for special events.

Address: 256 N Joachim Street, Mobile, Alabama

Official site: https://richardsdarhouse.com

Mobile is the home of the oldest Mardi Gras celebration in the United States. Occurring in February, this event is lively and full of color with a traditional parade watched by onlookers who fill up the balconies of surrounding homes and businesses. Storefront windows are decorated, and beads can be found all over the city streets, balconies, and park trees for days after the actual event. Some of the city's premier social events include Mardi Gras masquerade balls. Mardi Gras, or Fat Tuesday, is the day before Ash Wednesday and the start of Lent.

Tourists can get an up-close look at Mardi Gras traditions year-round at the Mobile Carnival Museum . This is one of the most unique things to do in Mobile. Here, you can learn about the history of this annual party, see actual costumes, and learn how the floats are created.

Address: 355 Government Street Mobile, Alabama

Official site: www.mobilecarnivalmuseum.com

Visitors can gain a sense of Mobile's history by walking through the city's romantic historic districts. There are seven designated Historic Districts in Mobile, each with its own unique character and architectural heritage. Self-guided driving or walking tours are available to explore these interesting areas.

One of the highlights is the De Tonti Square in downtown Mobile, with historic buildings in Federal, Greek Revival, Italianate, Queen Anne, and Victorian architectural styles. The clay-brick townhouses and houses were built in the 1850s and 60s along brick sidewalks that still maintain the original gas lamps. The Oakley Garden District , which covers more than 60 blocks, is home to a mix of mansions and cottages characterized by varying architectural details from the 1830s to the 1930s.

The Old Dauphin Way District is west of Mobile. The older structures consist of simple frame cottages, while larger homes line Dauphin Street and Spring Hill Avenue. Church Street East is the most diverse of Mobile's historic districts. Many of the colonial French, Spanish, and English structures were destroyed by fire and then rebuilt in the late 19th century. Lower Dauphin Street is Mobile's only predominantly 19th-century commercial district with two- and three-story brick structures built in the Victorian, Federal, Italianate, and 20th-century Revival styles.

The Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception is a popular tourist attraction for both its history and architecture. Initially established in 1704, the church was moved to its current location in 1711 and has continued to grow ever since. Today, the cathedral is laid out in classic Roman Basilica style, featuring eight Roman Doric columns, a barrel vault ceiling, and two towers.

Several of its features are remarkable, especially the massive stained-glass windows, which were first installed between 1890 and 1910. There are 12, measuring eight feet wide by 23 feet tall, depicting various scenes from the life of Mary. The cathedral's organ is another source of pride, the most recent model, custom-made by Wicks Organ Company, installed in 1957 after the original was destroyed by a fire.

Address: 2 South Claiborne Street, Mobile, Alabama

Official site: www.mobilecathedral.org/cms

The Oakleigh Historic Complex consists of three homes. Oakleigh, a Greek Revival mansion, was built in 1833 for James Roper, a prominent merchant. The house has been restored and furnished with antiques of the early Victorian, Empire, and Regency periods.

Next to the mansion is the Cox-Deasey House , a raised Creole cottage typical of Mobile's middle-class city dwellers in the 1850s. Built by a brick mason for his wife and 11 children, the displays cover the period up to and including WW II.

The third home is Cook's House, built in 1850 as the slaves' quarters. This three-room structure highlights everyday life for craftsmen, laborers, and domestic servants. Interaction between the owners and servants is explained, along with the effect of urban slavery on this commercial city.

Address: 300 Oakleigh Place, Mobile, Alabama

Official site: www.historicoakleigh.com

The Condé-Charlotte Museum House was built in 1822 to serve as the city's first official jail and courthouse, and later renovated and expanded to become the home of the Kirkbride family after its purchase in 1849.

Some rooms are furnished to reflect a period and a nationality, including French Empire, 18th-century English, American Federal, and the Confederate room. Other rooms are authentically restored to illustrate 19th-century life, including the oldest part of the home, its kitchen, which was the original jail structure. The museum also houses a collection of historic artifacts, including the 17th-century Chaudron silver tea set, Bohemian vases, and antique clocks. A walled Spanish garden, designed in an 18th-century plan, complements the house.

On Springhill Avenue, the Bragg-Mitchell Mansion is another fine historic attraction. This grand home was built in 1855 with entertaining in mind, featuring an elegant spiral staircase and double parlors. It is considered one of Mobile's finest antebellum mansions. It was designed in a combination of Greek Revival and Italianate architecture, and during its heyday, the home was the center of a lively social life in the thriving port of Mobile.

The interior displays antiques and draperies, although only a few original items remain. Tours of the home are free and available on the hour throughout the day, offering a glimpse of life in the Old South.

Address: Condé-Charlotte Museum, 104 Theatre Street, Mobile, Alabama

Official site: https://condecharlotte.com

Mobile Bay, on the Gulf of Mexico, has a number of lovely beaches, small towns, and historic sites to explore. At the southwest entrance to Mobile Bay lies the Dauphin Island bird sanctuary, with Fort Gaines , which played a part in the Civil War. From here, visitors can take a ferry to the western point of Pleasure Island, home to Fort Morgan . In the southeastern corner of the bay are the fine bathing beaches of the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach .

Dauphin Island is home to an Audubon bird sanctuary, an important site for bird migration. On the island is a freshwater lake with opportunities for swimming, fishing, and relaxing on the beaches. Also located on Dauphin Island is Fort Gaines, a location that changed control from France to Great Britain and then to Spain, eventually stopping with the United States seizing control in 1813. Fort Gaines was completed in 1861 and played a major role in the Battle of Mobile Bay. The fort was used in WWI as an artillery garrison and in WWII as a US Coast Guard station.

Another point of interest is Fairhope , located high on the bluffs of the Eastern Shore of Mobile Bay. The town is ideal for outdoor activities such as biking, golfing, tennis, and fishing off the Fairhope Pier. The Weeks Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve near Fairhope is home to a diverse habitat with a variety of fish and crustaceans. This living laboratory educates visitors about estuaries. Guided walks or self-guided tours can be enjoyed on the elevated boardwalks, as well as on more than two miles of ground trails.

Built in 1942 by Hank's father Herbert Aaron, this home started with just three rooms before being expanded in 1962 and 1972. Hank's mother Estella lived in the home until 2007, and in 2008, it was moved to its current location at Hank Aaron Stadium , former home of the Mobile Bay Bears.

The home was restored, and in 2010 opened as a museum dedicated to the life and career of baseball legend"Hammerin' Hank." The museum includes exhibits on his family and childhood, as well as memorabilia, including his 1957 Golden Glove award.

Hank Aaron has the distinguished honor of being one of only two Baseball Hall of Fame inductees to have an entire exhibit dedicated to him, the other being Babe Ruth. Visitors should be aware that the museum is closed on weekends unless there is a special event scheduled.

Address: Hank Aaron Stadium, 755 Bolling Brothers Blvd. Mobile, Alabama

Mobile has a lovely downtown area with many revitalized historic buildings. This is also where many of the city's major attractions, including Fort Conde, the Science Center, and several museums are located. For visitors looking to explore the city, this is the best place to stay. Below are some highly rated hotels in good locations:

Luxury Hotels:

• The Battle House Renaissance Mobile Hotel & Spa is one of the city's finest hotels. Set in a beautifully restored historical building, the hotel offers first-class amenities in an excellent downtown location.
• The Renaissance Mobile Riverview Plaza Hotel is ideally situated right on Mobile Bay and just steps from the historic district, great restaurants, and entertainment options.
• Near the Convention Center is the new Hampton Inn & Suites Mobile-Dtwn Hist Dist featuring large rooms and balconies with lovely views.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• In a great downtown location, near the Carnival Museum, the boutique Malaga Inn is housed in two historic antebellum homes and offers rooms with true southern charm.
• The Homewood Suites by Hilton Mobile I-65/Airport Blvd is an all-suite hotel just southwest of downtown. The hotel offers rooms with full kitchens and is a 10-minute drive to the famous Bragg-Mitchell Mansion.
• Just west of downtown, the newly renovated Mobile Marriott is located in Mobile's shopping and entertainment district across the street from the Colonial Bel Air Mall.

Budget Hotels:

• At the upper-end of the budget category and in the heart of downtown, is the Holiday Inn Mobile-Dtwn/Hist. District . Rooms here offer fantastic views over Mobile Bay, and the Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center and IMAX Theater are only a short walk away.
• A little farther out but walking distance from the Mobile Museum of Art is the Wingate by Wyndham , with a pool and complimentary breakfast.
• A 15-minute drive south of downtown and just a short drive from the Carnival Cruise Line port is La Quinta Inn & Suites by Whyndham Mobile – Tillman's Corner .

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Exploring Alabama: Many of Alabama's top attractions can be found in its largest cities, Montgomery and Birmingham. In a little under three hours' drive from Mobile, tourists can find a wide range of attractions and places to visit in Montgomery , including important civil rights landmarks, and in Birmingham , most notable for the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute and historic Civil Rights District.

The Gulf Coast: Located on the Gulf Coast, Mobile is convenient to several seaside tourist destinations. Many of Alabama's best resorts are in the Gulf Shores and cater to families, couples, and everyone else. Just an hour by car from Mobile, the Gulf Shores is known for its white-sand beaches, where you'll find everything from sunbathing to zipline tours over the water.

Pensacola, Florida is also about an hour from Mobile, making it a perfect destination for a day trip to the beach. In addition to its white-sand beaches and laid-back atmosphere, Pensacola has a variety of historic attractions, museums, and things to do for kids.

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27 top things to do in mobile, alabama.

Mobile is known for the oldest Mardi Gras celebration in the U.S., among other historic attractions and events.

Top Things to Do in Mobile, AL

Visit Mobile

Historic Dauphin Street in Mobile, Alabama, preserves the city's French heritage and architecture.

Situated on the Gulf Coast, Mobile, Alabama, is rich in history and culture, and visitors to this port city will find plenty to do, from uncovering the fascinating history of the Clotilda – the last-known slave ship to arrive in the U.S. – to celebrating Carnival at the country's oldest Mardi Gras event. Read on to discover the best things to do in Mobile.

Clotilda: The Exhibition at Africatown Heritage House

Courtesy of History Museum of Mobile

In 1860, a ship carrying 110 Africans illegally entered the U.S. in the middle of the night – more than five decades after international slave trade had been outlawed. Upon arrival, the captives were offloaded and the Clotilda was burned in an attempt to hide the crime. Rumors of the ship's existence lingered until 2019, when the ship was finally discovered in the Mobile River. Now, artifacts from the Clotilda are on display at the newly opened Africatown Heritage House in Mobile. Clotilda: The Exhibit largely focuses on the men, women and children of the Clotilda, including their lives in West Africa, their enslavement in the U.S. and their eventual freedom.

Address: 2465 Winbush St., Mobile, AL 36610

Attend the Mardi Gras festival

Courtesy of Visit Mobile

Every year Mardi Gras – which means "Fat Tuesday" in French – falls the day before Ash Wednesday and caps off the weekslong period of wintertime revelry known as Carnival. While North America's first known unofficial celebration of Mardi Gras took place near present-day New Orleans in 1699, Mobile's first Mardi Gras festival, which took place a few years later, kicked off what's considered the oldest annual Carnival in the U.S.

The celebration in Mobile, which begins two and a half weeks before Fat Tuesday, typically occurs between February and early March, depending on the year. Claim your spot on the street in downtown Mobile early for one of the parades and enjoy the colorful floats as they pass by. Keep an eye and a hand out for Moon Pies and beads, which parade participants toss to observers. Travelers call Mardi Gras in Mobile a fun and family-friendly celebration, especially if you've never seen something like it, and appreciate the intimacy of the festivities when compared to bigger Mardi Gras destinations like New Orleans.

Mobile Carnival Museum

Tad Denson | Courtesy of Visit Mobile

Whether or not you're in Mobile for Mardi Gras, the Mobile Carnival Museum can give you an excellent look into the history of one of the oldest annual festivals in the U.S. You'll get the chance to learn about how locals design their costumes and floats, see historical photographs of the celebration dating back to the 19th century, check out various artifacts – including the crowns, scepters and robes of past Mardi Gras monarchs – and even get a picture of yourself as royalty. Past visitors say the memorabilia has been well preserved and recommend talking to the staff members to learn more about the festival's history.

Address: 355 Government St., Mobile, AL 36602

USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park

The USS Alabama made its first voyage during World War II and was deemed "Heroine of the Pacific." While the federal government outlined plans to scrap the battleship in 1962, Mobile residents and other Alabamians proposed a different outcome, and USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park opened just a few years later.

Visitors can take a tour of the inside of the USS Alabama, as well as the USS Drum, which is currently the oldest U.S. submarine on display to the public. You can also check out tanks, boats and artillery from various wars around the park. Step into the Medal of Honor Aircraft Pavilion and see the collection of planes, vehicles and other artifacts, and be sure to explore the grounds and memorials to veterans from all wars. Parkgoers call this attraction a must if you're planning to be in Mobile and say it offers an incredible perspective of the soldiers who have served in past wars.

Address: 2703 Battleship Parkway, Mobile, AL 36602

Bellingrath Gardens and Home

Located about 25 miles south of Mobile in the town of Theodore, Bellingrath Gardens and Home is a 65-acre estate that includes a conservatory, an Asian American garden, a rose garden, a bayou, a boardwalk and more. You'll be able to visit the Bellingrath Museum Home, where Walter and Bessie Bellingrath, who established the gardens, lived until 1934. If you're traveling with kids, you can download several educational children's guides throughout the gardens, where they can learn about bees, butterflies, birds, geography, plants and more; keep them engaged with a scavenger hunt or two. Past visitors say the gardens are beautiful all year long and recommend doing a tour of the home, though it may be crowded at times.

Address: 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road, Theodore, AL 36582

Cathedral-Basilica of the Immaculate Conception

Courtesy of Cathedral-Basilica of the Immaculate Conception

While Mobile's Cathedral-Basilica of the Immaculate Conception wasn't consecrated for public worship until 1850, the parish it belongs to was established in 1703, making it the first Catholic parish on the Gulf Coast. You can check the cathedral's mass schedule or visit another time to take in the stunning stained glass, custom-built organ and the beautiful architecture. Travelers say the cathedral is reminiscent of old European cathedrals and is a peaceful spot to worship or simply reflect.

Address: 307 Conti St., Mobile, AL 36602

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During the Civil War, Mobile Bay was a key port for the Confederacy; its fall was a major victory for the Union. Today the shallow inlet –⁠ the average depth is just 10 feet –⁠ offers a variety of aquatic activities for the whole family to enjoy. Rent a kayak, paddleboard or canoe and spend a few hours exploring the water. Some operators provide guided tours and cruises on the bay, including sunset, brunch and murder mystery cruises. Mobile Bay also has more than 30 miles of white sand beaches for play and relaxation, but you may want to take a ferry or drive down south to Dauphin Island, one of the best beaches in Alabama . Past visitors say the bay offers beautiful views, particularly at sunset.

Bragg-Mitchell Mansion

This Greek Revival mansion was built in 1855 as a second home for Judge John Bragg and his family, allowing them to enjoy the social season in Mobile when they weren't at their cotton plantation near Montgomery. Donated to the city by its last private owner, the A.S. Mitchell family, the 20-room mansion now serves as a museum depicting life in the South during that time. Guided tours immerse you in the historic furnishings and stories of the previous owners. Past museum patrons highly recommend a tour, saying the guides' narration makes the house come alive and gives an excellent glimpse into the Civil War era. Note that the museum sometimes closes for private events, so consider calling ahead for schedule updates before your visit.

Address: 1906 Springhill Ave., Mobile, AL 36607

Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center

Located on the grounds of the historic Bragg-Mitchell Mansion, the Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center offers several immersive exhibits, both permanent and temporary, that instill a sense of curiosity and imagination in museum guests. You can also step into the dome theater for short films covering topics like ancient caves, nature's predators and the wilderness right in Mobile's backyard. In addition to the theater and hands-on exhibits, the center also hosts various science demonstrations in the Science Squad Headquarters. Past visitors say that the Exploreum is particularly worth visiting if you're traveling with kids but that some of the exhibits may not always be in working order.

Address: 65 Government St., Mobile, AL 36602

Dora Franklin Finley African-American Heritage Trail

With so much cultural and ethnic diversity in Mobile's past and present, take the time to explore some of the area's Black history. The more than 40 stops along the city's African-American Heritage Trail help bring Black stories in the area to life. The trail's historical sites in particular highlight the early Creoles of color; survivors from the Clotilda; newly freed Black people who built and worshipped at some of Alabama's oldest churches; African Americans who settled on what is now Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue; and civil rights advocates who fought for desegregation.

Travelers can traverse this historic trail by taking a self-guided driving or walking tour with online maps and narration . For a guided experience, make a reservation for a docent to lead a walking tour downtown or board your bus to narrate. However you choose to experience these points of interest, you'll get to learn about the former slave market, the community of Africatown and a rural school called the Emerson Institute, which produced a diverse curriculum amid the Jim Crow era, among other sites.

GulfQuest National Maritime Museum of the Gulf of Mexico

At GulfQuest, you'll have your pick of more than 90 interactive maritime exhibits spanning trade routes, Gulf settlements, ship navigation, military history, marine life, coastal environments and more. Watch a film on the WWII history of the Port of Mobile in the Discovery Hull Theater, then take the helm of a ship using one of the museum's simulators to navigate Mobile Bay and surrounding areas in a variety of scenarios. The museum is the only one of its kind dedicated to the traditions, culture and history of the Gulf of Mexico. Guests say that while some exhibits can be down at times, there are many self-guided, hands-on experiences for all ages.

Address: 155 S. Water St., Mobile, AL 36602

Condé-Charlotte Museum

This historic building housed Mobile's first courthouse and jail before it became a family home and then a house museum. Now the Condé-Charlotte Museum is dedicated to preserving the city's rich history. A tour gives you a look at period furnishings, antiques and other artifacts that reflect the diversity of Mobile, which has been under the control of the French, English, Spanish, Confederate and American flags. That complex history is showcased through two Confederate parlors, a British commandant's room, an American Federal dining room, a French sitting room, a Spanish garden and more. Visitors say the guides on these hourlong tours are incredibly knowledgeable and provide a meticulous history of the home and region.

Address: 104 Theatre St., Mobile, AL 36602

History Museum of Mobile

Originally built in 1855 to house the city market and some of the city's government departments, the Italianate-style History Museum of Mobile today maintains more than 117,000 artifacts from the city and surrounding region. Visitors can learn about the history of Mobile, beginning with its first Indigenous inhabitants and traversing periods of slavery, civil rights and more. Permanent exhibits include one of the original cannons from the Confederate ship CSS Alabama; a gallery showcasing some of the finer things of Southern life, including fine porcelain, crystal and artwork; and an exhibit of incredibly detailed miniature houses, among others. There are also rotating exhibits, making the museum worth multiple visits if you plan to be in Mobile more than once. Past guests say the museum offers an impressive glimpse into the history of the city, despite its relatively compact space.

Address: 111 S. Royal St., Mobile, AL 36602

Colonial Fort Condé

This French colonial fort – first built in 1723 mostly by enslaved African men, making it a stop on the African-American Heritage Trail – provided protection to the residents of Mobile for more than 100 years under various colonial powers and names, including Fort Charlotte. The original fort was mostly destroyed, with its remnants rediscovered in 1966. A decade later, a replica of a portion of the fort was completed at a slightly smaller scale. Travelers can visit Fort Condé today by paying admission to the History Museum of Mobile. You'll be able to witness live reenactments involving soldiers, craftsmen and pirates; test your aim at the shooting gallery; visit the armory; and even try to solve an escape room with your kids. Past visitors advise that the fort alone isn't worth the price of admission to the museum, but it can be a great addition to your overall experience at the History Museum of Mobile.

Address: 150 S. Royal St., Mobile, AL 36602

Wintzell's Oyster House

With one location downtown and another in west Mobile, Wintzell's Oyster House began as a oyster bar with a mere six stools in 1938. More than 80 years later, the restaurant is a Gulf Coast tradition, offering an array of fresh seafood and other Southern comfort favorites. It also has family-style meals for takeout if you'd rather avoid the crowds. Foodies call the restaurant a must for seafood enthusiasts, particularly if you enjoy fresh oysters, and point to the ambiance of the restaurant and the attentive staff as well.

Richards-DAR House Museum

This 1860s Italianate-style townhome – built by Captain Charles G. Richards and his wife Caroline Elizabeth Steele – remained in the Richards family until 1946, when it was sold to a cement company. After the home was donated to the city, it was restored by four local chapters of the Daughters of the American Revolution organization in 1973. The DAR-maintained museum is famous for its four seasons iron lace and other elegant furnishings throughout. You can take a guided tour of the 10,000-square-foot home and envision what life was like for the Richards family during their tenure in the home. Past guests say the tour is full of stories for each room of the house and the guides exude Southern hospitality.

Address: 256 N. Joachim St., Mobile, AL 36603

Gator Boardwalk

Courtesy of City of Daphne

This half-mile boardwalk in Daphne – just a 10-mile drive across Mobile Bay – gives you the chance to see alligators, fish and other wildlife native to the area as you walk over D'Olive Creek. There's also a butterfly garden to browse while you're in the area. If you've never seen alligators outside of a zoo or aquarium, Gator Boardwalk can be a great place to see them in their own habitat. Keep in mind that there's no guarantee you'll see any alligators while you're strolling the boardwalk, but visitors say it's enjoyable regardless of whether you're lucky enough to spot one. Just remember not to feed any gators you see.

Address: N. Main St., Daphne, AL 36526

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Historic Oakleigh House Museum

Courtesy of Historic Mobile Preservation Society

The Oakleigh House is the oldest house museum in Mobile. Built in 1833 by James W. Roper, this Greek Revival-style house has witnessed many historical periods and events in Mobile and the surrounding area, including the cotton trade, slavery, the Civil War, Emancipation, railroad expansion, epidemics and more. A guided, hourlong tour leads patrons through the house museum's authentic period rooms, providing a view of Mobile history through the eyes of Oakleigh's inhabitants. You'll also be able to visit the Union barracks, built on the property around 1866, which tell a story of Emancipation and Reconstruction in the post-Civil War South. Past guests say the architecture of the home is simple but beautiful, and the artifacts throughout the home are unique compared to similar museums.

Address: 300 Oakleigh Place, Mobile, AL 36604

Mobile Museum of Art

The city's art museum houses more than 6,400 pieces of fine and decorative art from America, Europe and Asia in its permanent collection (though not all of them are on view at all times). The Mobile Museum of Art's collection includes selections ranging from contemporary artwork all the way back to classical antiquity. The museum also hosts various special exhibitions throughout the year, highlighting select media and artists. If you have the time, you can also check if your visit coincides with any of the art classes offered for adults and children that may focus on pottery, jewelry making, glass fusing or other art forms. Outside, you can walk the sculpture trail, which features a couple dozen sculptures in a variety of media. Museumgoers say you can get through the whole collection in about an hour, but many recommend staying a bit longer to get the full experience.

Address: 4850 Museum Drive, Mobile, AL 36608

Meaher State Park

Fewer than 10 miles east of downtown Mobile, Meaher State Park is a great place to experience the Mobile Bay wetlands for the day or even overnight. The park is just one stop on the Coastal Alabama Birding Trail, so you can hike as little or as long as you'd like before enjoying opportunities for boating and picnicking. Fishing on the 300-foot pier is often another traveler favorite (though the pier was closed for repairs at the time of publication). You can go to Meaher State Park just to take in the natural wonder of the Mobile-Tensaw River Delta, the second largest delta in the contiguous U.S., known as "America's Amazon" because it's the most biodiverse river system in North America. Note that there's a modest park entry fee for day use. If you want to stay overnight, the state park has improved tent sites and RV sites. Past visitors appreciate Meaher State Park's beautiful views and quiet, peaceful atmosphere.

Address: 5200 Battleship Parkway E., Spanish Fort, AL 36527

Mobile Flea Market

Billed as the largest flea market on the Gulf Coast, the Mobile Flea Market hosts more than 800 vendors every weekend year-round. Browse a wide variety of wares from all over the world; there are also six concession stands so you don't have to leave to get a bite to eat. Note, however, that the market is not pet-friendly and charges a small fee to enter. Some past visitors say the market has a vibrant atmosphere with a lot of fascinating items, but others say that the quality and price of goods can be hit or miss.

Address: 401 Schillinger Road N., Mobile, AL 36608

Mobile Botanical Gardens

Established in 1974, the 106-acre Mobile Botanical Gardens claims to have the largest collection of plants on the Gulf Coast. As you walk the various trails in the gardens, admire the collection of azaleas, the pollinator garden, Japanese maples and camellias, among other sights. There's also 35 acres of conservation forest area growing the second generation of pines that were logged in the early 1900s: The land on which the gardens are situated used to be part of a massive longleaf pine forest. Before you go, check the event calendar for occasional botanical art classes or join in on the weekly garden sketch club. If you're traveling with children, ask for some fish food at the office so your youngsters can feed the fish in the koi pond – as well as a kids activity backpack, complete with scavenger hunts, fun facts, a sample of honey from the botanical gardens and more. Past visitors say the shaded trails and lovely flora are made more pleasant by the friendly and helpful staff.

Address: 5151 Museum Drive, Mobile, AL 36608

Cooper Riverside Park

This 3-acre waterfront park sits near the Mobile History Museum, Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center and GulfQuest Maritime Museum, offering an outdoor haven to sit and relax after your tours. Cooper Riverside Park features sculptures, benches and lush green grass, along with a view of the bustling ship traffic in the Mobile port. The park is also home to a U.S. Coast Guard Monument, which is dedicated to the people who have served in that branch of the armed forces and its predecessor agencies in Mobile since 1819. Both locals and tourists enjoy stepping away from the downtown area to take a break at the park, lounging and watching the water traffic.

Address: 101 S. Water St., Mobile, AL 36602

Alabama Contemporary Art Center

Courtesy of Alabama Contemporary Art Center

Located in the heart of Mobile's historic downtown, the Alabama Contemporary Art Center is dedicated to highlighting and supporting the work of living artists. The center is a noncollecting museum, which means it doesn't have any permanent exhibits. Instead, this attraction typically has a few temporary exhibits running at a time, so if you travel to Mobile regularly, you'll experience something different every time. Museum programming may include performances, talks, dance parties, panel discussions and programs for children; consult the museum's website for upcoming events. Past guests say the art center has a low-key atmosphere and can have some unique exhibits, but some suggest checking before your visit to determine if the current exhibitions are to your taste.

Address: 301 Conti St., Mobile, AL 36602

Hank Aaron Childhood Home and Museum

Note: The Hank Aaron Childhood Home and Museum is currently closed. It will be moved from Hank Aaron Stadium (which closed in 2022) to a new location and will reopen for tours at a later date.

If you're a fan of America's pastime, you can't miss the childhood home of baseball legend Hank Aaron, who grew up in Mobile. Visit to learn about Aaron's life, his family and the history of baseball in Mobile. You'll also be able to see memorabilia from Aaron's professional baseball career, including his Golden Glove Award, home-run record trophy and original Louisville Slugger bat design.

Visitors say the museum provides an inspiring and charming tribute to one of the top baseball players of all time. You can also spend some time in Henry "Hank" Aaron Park, a couple blocks from where his childhood home originally sat, to further honor this famed Black player.

Airboat Adventures

For a unique experience on the Mobile-Tensaw River Delta, check out Airboat Adventures in Spanish Fort, a little more than 5 miles east of Mobile. A ride on an airboat can bring you up close to some of the delta's diverse wildlife, which includes alligators, egrets, turtles, snakes, eagles and many other species. The operator provides 30-minute or hourlong tours, with the latter option giving you the chance to stop for pictures and get more education about the area.

Sometimes, Airboat Adventures may also offer night tours, where you'll have a better chance to see alligators, as well as sunset tours; bowfishing from an airboat can also be a fun experience when it's available. Note that each tour type has its own requirement for a minimum number of guests, starting at four people. Past guests rave about the captains' knowledge and stories of the delta and say that while the tour goes by quickly, it's well worth the price.

Address: 3775 Battleship Parkway, Spanish Fort, AL 36527

Braided River Brewing Company

Courtesy of Braided River Brewing Company

Whether you're a craft beer connoisseur or just looking for a place to unwind with a cold brew, consider stopping by Braided River Brewing Company. The brewery offers a number of year-round beers, seasonal options and limited releases. India pale ales, hazy pale ales and German-style ales are always on the menu at the taproom, and depending on the time of year, you may also see sour ales, stouts, amber ales and others.

Braided River is especially known for its environmental sustainability efforts, including donations to local environmental agencies, plastic reduction, and repurposed grain sacks and grains, among others. Visitors say the taproom has a good selection of options for all tastes and it's easy to order food from nearby restaurants for a complete meal.

Address: 420 Saint Louis St., Mobile, AL 36602

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Things to Do in Gulf Shores
• The Best Things to Do in Birmingham
• The Best Weekend Getaways in the South

17 Top Gulf Coast Beaches to Visit

Tags: Travel , US Vacations , Southeast Vacations

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THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Mobile

Things to do in mobile, explore popular experiences, tours in and around mobile.

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• USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park
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27 Best & Fun Things To Do In Mobile (Alabama)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: October 26, 2021  - Last updated: May 3, 2024

With its historic homes, quaint shopfronts and country-style living, there’s a lot of southern charm in the city of Mobile, Alabama.

Don’t be too quick to judge a book by its cover, however, because there’s a lot more to the city than what meets the eye.

For example, did you know that Mobile is the original birthplace of Mardis Gras?

Did you know that it’s still celebrated locally with fun, festive events that include everything from parades to drag shows?

Other activities include shopping, dining, drinking, sightseeing and more.

You can put on a fancy dress and visit the opera; you can put on your hiking boots and go camping in the wilderness.

This city has it all.

Let’s talk about some of the most epic things to do in Mobile, Alabama.

While this isn’t an exhaustive list by any means, it can be a good starting point to help you realize just how dynamic and vibrant life is in Mobile!

Table of Contents

1. USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park

USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park

The USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park is one of the biggest sightseeing destinations in Mobile.

While it’s named after its signature battleship, it also offers many military- and history-related tourist attractions, including a WWII-era submarine.

Other attractions include tanks, bombers, missiles, fighter planes and a wide range of military memorabilia such as the iconic 1950s “skysweeper” guns.

Some of the war machines have exciting stories behind them, including the planes flown by the Tuskegee Airmen.

To get the fullest experience at the museum, take a tour of the grounds or explore their many interactive exhibits.

The grassy park also plays host to a number of local community events, so if you schedule your trip right, you can catch a concert, blood drive, sports event or holiday festival.

It doesn’t matter whether you’re traveling to Mobile this weekend or next summer.

There’s always something fun to see at the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park!

Address: 2703 Battleship Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36603, United States

2. Mobile Museum of Art

Carol M. Highsmith , Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

If you’re looking for culture, the Mobile Museum of Art is one of the best things to do in Mobile.

It houses more than 6,000 permanent works while also playing host to a number of traveling and rotating exhibits.

Its oldest pieces date back thousands of years!

What can you see at the museum?

The possibilities are endless.

There are paintings, portraits and art prints; there are sculptures and ceramics; there are wood cuts and glass art.

Whether you’re interested in ancient, carefully preserved pottery or gleaming metal art installations with modern chic, you’ll find something that catches the eye.

Another great thing about the museum is its artistic diversity.

While the lion’s share of its collection is focused on American artwork, it also displays everything from African masks to Asian scrolls.

You don’t have to go abroad to take a walk around the world.

With the Mobile Museum of Art, you can enjoy a global experience on a small, convenient scale.

Address: 4850 Museum Dr, Mobile, AL 36608, United States

3. Gator Boardwalk

Gator Boardwalk

Have you truly visited the Gulf Coast if you haven’t seen any alligators?

Make sure that you cross this activity off your bucket list with a trip to Gator Boardwalk.

Consisting of wooden boardwalks that descend deeper and deeper into a tall-grassed swamp, Gator Boardwalk is a popular hangout for local critters.

Alligators aren’t the only species that creeps around the water.

You’ll also be able to spot birds, frogs, lizards and other kinds of wetland wildlife.

You might be wondering about safety.

As long as you stay behind the railings, it’s perfectly safe to visit Gator Boardwalk.

Even kids are welcome, and seeing an alligator in the flesh should definitely be a formative memory for them!

Though it’s located about 10 minutes outside of the city, Gator Boardwalk is considered one of the principal points of interest of Mobile, so it’s a must-do for anyone passing through the city.

Address: N Main St, Daphne, AL 36526, United States

4. Meaher State Park

Meaher State Park

With its iconic wooden boardwalk, Meaher State Park is one of the most recognizable of Mobile’s attractions, which makes it rather funny that it isn’t even located within Mobile’s city limits.

It’s actually a short drive east over the water and into the wetlands.

Once you’ve arrived, however, you’ll quickly realize why the park attracts so many people from Mobile and beyond.

It’s a prime destination for boating, fishing, camping, picnicking and more.

Some spots are designated recreational sites with amenities like ramps and restrooms; others are more rugged, and they’re meant for serious backpackers who are keen to explore the 1,300 acres of natural beauty all around them.

Maybe you want to walk the boardwalk.

Maybe you want to swim under the sun or lay under the stars.

If you’re wondering about the best things to do in Alabama , you should definitely put Meaher State Park on your shortlist.

Address: 5200 Battleship Pkwy E, Spanish Fort, AL 36527, United States

5. Mardi Gras

Mardi Gras ( Pieter Morlion / flickr )

You can’t visit the birthplace of Mardi Gras without experiencing it live and in color, so if you’ll be in Alabama during the months of March and April, make time for some awesomely festive celebrations!

The party starts in early spring with several parade days leading up to the main event.

There are often smaller celebrations as well, and they can be everything from family-friendly festivals to adults-only nights at bars and clubs.

On Mardi Gras day, you can go pretty much anywhere in the city to enjoy food, drink, music, art, fashion and more.

The floats will snake for miles and can be observed from all major destinations.

In terms of Mobile attractions, a Mardi Gras celebration is a must.

You’ll have to be in town at the right time, of course, but otherwise, it’s something that you just can’t leave without experiencing at least once in your life.

Make plans today and be prepared for the ultimate party in spring!

Address: Mobile, AL, United States

Visiting other parts of Alabama? Why not check out some of the things to do in Huntsville, AL ?

6. Mobile Carnival Museum

Mobile Carnival Museum

If you can’t make it to Mobile during Mardi Gras, the next best thing is the Mobile Carnival Museum .

At the Mobile Carnival Museum, you can enjoy all of the splashy wonder of the world’s most famous festivals without ever leaving Alabama.

It’s dedicated to both Mardi Gras and Carnival, and it’s the only museum of its kind in the entire world.

The exhibits cover everything from vintage flapper fashion to the gowns and crowns of past pageant queens.

Informative displays talk about relevant topics such as costume design and float construction.

A wide range of costumes are showcased, including masks, dresses, suits, scepters and jester outfits.

There are videos from past parades; there are photographs dating all of the way back to 1886.

There are even attractions where you can launch doubloons off floats!

All things considered, a trip to the Mobile Carnival Museum is one of the most unique things to do in Mobile, so it’s a definite “yes” for your future travel plans.

Address: 355 Government St, Mobile, AL 36602, United States

7. Dauphin Street

Dauphin Street

When you think about nightlife, a little town in Alabama might not be the first destination that comes to mind.

On Dauphin Street, however, you’ll feel like you’ve traveled to the heart of New Orleans rather than Mobile.

Colorful houses line the sidewalks.

Trendy businesses advertise everything from beignets to bubble tea, and crowds bustle around with kids, dogs and shopping bags.

It’s at night, however, that Dauphin Street really starts to embrace the Mardis Gras spirit.

The darkness will come alive with the glittering lights of bars, clubs, pubs, dance halls and more.

You can attend a drag show; you can enjoy live blues music in a cigar bar.

If you’re wondering what to do in Mobile when the sun goes down, Dauphin Street is the answer.

The best part is that it’s only the beginning of downtown Mobile, too.

Turn the corner for the next street and the next adventure!

Address: Dauphin St, Mobile, AL, United States

8. Mobile Opera

Mobile Opera

Based out of a local music center, the Mobile Opera isn’t a destination.

It isn’t even a tourist attraction.

Instead, it’s a opportunity: It represents the chance to see real, southern-style “opry” singers doing their thing on their home stage.

Show times vary, and so do venues, so you’ll want to check out their website to see what’s available.

Popular shows might require tickets to be purchased months in advance while others might be a last-minute date night idea for couples this weekend.

The Mobile Opera advertises itself as “more than music,” and that’s definitely true.

It’s an entire cultural experience wrapped up in the form of live entertainment.

If you want to say that you’ve truly lived and breathed the south while in Alabama, make time for the opera.

Address: 257 Dauphin St, Mobile, AL 36602, United States

9. Oakleigh Garden Historic District

Oakleigh Garden Historic District ( Jimmy Emerson, DVM / flickr )

Have you ever dreamed of sipping sweet tea on a covered porch while watching the azaleas bloom?

If so, you’ve just found the perfect place to live out your fun antebellum fantasies.

The Oakleigh Garden Historic District is one of several historic districts in this area of Alabama, and it’s dedicated to grand, beautiful, southern-style mansions.

The oldest date back to the 1820s while the most “modern” were built around the 1940s.

Each has its own distinct architectural style, but they all have the splendor and grandeur that was expected of hat-topped ladies and suit-wearing gentlemen looking to show off their wealth.

There are no actual activities in this neighborhood; it’s a residential area where families still live today.

However, you’re free to walk around and gawk.

Plenty of visitors do!

Whether you’re into culture, history, high society or just cool-looking homes, the Oakleigh Garden Historic District is one of the best places to see in Mobile for a taste of old southern charm.

Address: 300 Oakleigh Pl, Mobile, AL 36604, United States

10. Alabama Pecan Festival

Held every year in November, the Alabama Pecan Festival celebrates the end of the season for the south’s favorite nut.

Hundreds of people gather in Mobile for the two-day event.

There are rides, games, concerts, competitions and all other kinds of activities, so the whole family can find age-appropriate activities and entertainment.

No one is ever bored.

No one goes hungry, either.

Vendors absolutely line the streets with delicious pecan-based dishes, and only a fraction of them make the traditional pies and pastries that you’d expect.

Some cooks get crazy-creative with how they use pecans!

Did we mention that the Alabama Pecan Festival is completely free?

There’s no admission charge.

You only have to pay for the food that you eat and the games that you play.

If you’re wondering what to do while on a budget, this festival can keep your wallet and your waistline nice and fat!

Address: 5055 Carol Plantation Rd, Mobile, AL 36619, United States

Planning to explore other parts of Alabama? Why not check out some of the fun things to do in Birmingham, AL ?

11. Braided River Brewing Company

Braided River Brewing Company

If you like your beer ice cold, the Braided River Brewing Company is one of the best destinations in Alabama.

Housed in an industrial building a short ways from the waterfront, it’s exactly what you’d expect from a chic, urban brewery, and its clientele reflects that.

You’ll be among like-minded folks if you’re the type to snap a picture of your thick-bottomed beer mug before you take a gulp of the nectar inside.

Other attractive features of the brewery include its nice views and its ever-changing drink menu.

The brewmasters like to shake things up, so while some staples flow from the taproom year-round, others are experimental or seasonal crafts that you can only get then and there.

“There’s no place like the Delta,” says the Braided River Brewing Company, and its team goes the extra mile to make it a one-of-a-kind experience for locals and tourists alike.

Stop by for a swig and a story when you’re looking for fun places to visit in Mobile.

Address: 420 St Louis St, Mobile, AL 36602, United States

12. Three Georges Candy

Three Georges Candy

Known to locals as “Three Georges and the Nuthouse,” this sweet destination is considered the best candy house in all of Alabama.

It’s overflowing with truffles, fudges, chocolates, cheesecakes and many other delectable desserts that are reminiscent of Willy Wonka at his finest.

Sweet things aren’t the only things on the menu, however.

You can have a nice, sit-down lunch at the restaurant if you fancy some gumbo.

You can also order red beans and rice if you want a Creole kick!

After you’ve filled your stomach, treat yourself to everything from rum-soaked fruitcake to white chocolate dripped pretzels.

Candy houses are places of indulgence, after all.

If you have a sweet tooth in Mobile and you’re wondering what to do about it, try some snacks from Three Georges Candy .

It’s easily a top 10 destination for chocoholics passing through Mobile.

Address: 226 Dauphin St, Mobile, AL 36602, United States

13. Mobile Flea Market

Mobile Flea Market

Hailed as the largest flea market on the Gulf Coast, the Mobile Flea Market routinely attracts anywhere from 700 – 800 vendors at a time, and it’s open year-round for locals and tourists alike.

If you’re the type who enjoys traveling off the beaten path, it can be one of those weird things to do that’s equal parts bizarre and unforgettable!

There’s no telling what you might find among the stacks and stacks of flea market goods.

There are toys and tools; there are clothes and candles; there are old rugs and even older records.

You can browse bookcases or go digging for hidden treasures within boxes and trunks.

Each vendor has their own stall, and each stall is a miniature world of its own.

Other places to go in the flea market include restrooms, picnic areas and a half-dozen concession stands, so you could make an entire day trip out of your visit.

Get there early to get the first pick of the litter; then, enjoy some hot dogs or funnel cakes once you’ve worked up an appetite!

If you’re looking for cool things to do while traveling through Alabama, why don’t you stop at the Mobile Flea Market for awhile?

You could walk out with everything from vintage dollhouses to elaborate floral arrangements, so it’ll definitely be an entertaining way to spend your time in the city.

Address: 401 Schillinger Rd N, Mobile, AL 36608, United States

14. Wales West Light Railway

Wales West Light Railway

While not technically located in Mobile, the Wales West Light Railway is one of its most popular tourist attractions.

People flock to the railroad every year to experience fun seasonal rides such as the “Pumpkin Patch” or the “Arctic Express.”

It might look like an oversized toy from a distance.

It’s painted in a bright, happy mishmash of colors, and it often delivers cheerful toots from its horn as it chugs along the tracks.

It’s a real railway, however, and it creates happy memories for families every year.

If you’re looking for things to do in Mobile that are suitable for all ages, you and your kids can have a jolly old time aboard the Wales West Light Railway.

Address: 13670 Smiley St, Silverhill, AL 36576, United States

15. Crescent Theater

Crescent Theater

Located in the entertainment district of downtown Mobile, Crescent Theater is an old-fashioned way to enjoy a good flick.

It has a single screen, so the experience is very intimate, and there are plush reclining seats to keep you comfortable as you snack on beer, wine, popcorn and other treats.

The range of movies is diverse.

Sometimes, there are big-name blockbusters; other times, there are independent or international films.

Local productions are always popular.

On holidays, seasonal films take center stage, so Halloween sees a lot of slashers while Christmas deploys a lot of feel-good family tales.

Crescent Theater also plays host to live theater acts from time to time, so if you’re looking to get a little culture while you’re in Alabama, this could be a place to do it!

There are many things to do in downtown Mobile, but movie buffs should definitely carve out some time for a trip to the Crescent Theater.

It’s a local landmark for a reason.

Address: 208 Dauphin St, Mobile, AL 36602, United States

Visiting other parts of Alabama? Why not check out some of the fun things to do in Gulf Shores  & some of the fun things to do in Montgomery, AL ?

16. Chickasabogue Park

Chickasabogue Park ( faungg’s photos / flickr )

With tall trees rising over the tops of misty lakes, Chickasabogue Park is a gorgeous sightseeing destination in Alabama.

It’s also one of the state’s biggest tourist attractions thanks to its huge roster of outdoor sports and activities.

Active folks can ride a bike, launch a boat or play a round of disc golf.

Those more interested in taking the scenic route can explore the many nature trails around the water or through the woods.

Photographers can snap amazing shots; campers can enjoy stunning night skies; birdwatchers can listen to songs from sunup to sundown.

There’s even something for history buffs: An on-site museum explores everything from the region’s Native American ancestry to its African American community, so it’s one of Mobile’s major points of interest for those interested in the past.

One of the great things about Mobile is that you can enjoy a city and a country atmosphere during your vacation.

You just have to figure out where to go when you’re in the mood for that particular atmosphere.

Put Chickasabogue Park on your itinerary for the “outdoor” column!

Address: 760 Aldock Rd, Eight Mile, AL 36613, United States

17. Colonial Fort Conde

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.

As such, it’s also gone by a variety of names, so you might see it listed as Fort Charlotte, Fort Louis, Fuerta Carlota or the Fort of Colonial Mobile.

Tours of the fort include a trip through the original, partially-reconstructed sections as well as the fully replicated sections that have been built at a 4/5ths scale.

Visitors can also wander the grounds to visit nearby attractions and amenities, including the History Museum of Mobile, Mardi Gras Park and the old Mobile County Courthouse.

It doesn’t get more authentic than a real, centuries-old fort.

If you’re interested in the military history of Mobile, you won’t want to miss Colonial Fort Conde.

Address: 150 S Royal St, Mobile, AL 36602, United States

18. Mobile Botanical Gardens

Mobile Botanical Gardens

The most beautiful places in the US are often filled with the sights and sounds of nature, but what do you do when you’re in the middle of a thriving metropolis like Mobile, Alabama?

One solution is to hit up the Mobile Botanical Gardens .

Covering more than 100 acres, it’s a sprawling landscape of flowers, trees, shrubs and succulents, and it will fill your heart with awe as you take in its glorious scenery right in the middle of Mobile.

You can also sign up for fun events within the gardens like picnics, art lessons, yoga sessions, poetry workshops and floral sales.

Another nice thing about the attraction is that it’s open year-round with different seasonal plants.

For example, the wintergarden has pines and holly bushes while the spring “rebloom” garden fills the air with the scents of daffodils, irises, camillas and fig trees.

There’s even a brief period in January and February when Taiwanese cherries bloom!

If you’re looking for places to visit in Mobile that you can enjoy any time of the year, consider a trip to the Mobile Botanical Gardens.

You can literally call them up this weekend and ask what’s currently flowering.

There’s always something!

Address: 5151 Museum Dr, Mobile, AL 36608, United States

19. Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception

Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception

Built in the early 1800s, the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception is one of the oldest houses of worship for Catholics on the Gulf Coast.

It’s still a great place for religious folk today, but it’s also open to tours and walkthroughs for secular visitors who just want to see what it’s like inside.

As for that question, there’s a reason why the basilica is one of the coolest things to do in Mobile.

Dozens of stained glass windows line the walls, and they depict a series of events in Mary’s life, including “Nativity of Jesus” and “Coronation of Mary, Queen of Heaven.”

An old-fashioned organ sits in front of the pew for the parish.

On special days, couples use the church for weddings, baptisms and other ceremonies.

It’s okay if you aren’t Catholic.

The glory and majesty of the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception is something that can be appreciated by all, especially those who appreciate architecture.

Swing by downtown Mobile to see it for yourself!

Address: 2 S Claiborne St, Mobile, AL 36602, United States

20. GulfQuest National Maritime Museum of the Gulf of Mexico

GulfQuest National Maritime Museum of the Gulf of Mexico

Housed in a metal-and-glass building on the very edge of the water, the GulfQuest National Maritime Museum could be easily be mistaken for a ship.

However, its spectacular architecture is only the beginning!

Inside, there are almost 100 displays, exhibits, simulators, galleries and theater rooms dedicated to maritime heritage and culture.

You can explore multiple “decks” of attractions that include everything from informative films to treks on container ships with replica engines.

When you need a break from your wandering, you can hit up the on-site restaurant or gift shop to grab a bite to eat or find fun souvenirs.

The GulfQuest National Maritime Museum is one of the only places to go that’s devoted exclusively to the Gulf of Mexico and its unique maritime history.

It’ll be a rare opportunity for you as a traveler and a great bucket list item to cross off.

Address: 155 S Water St, Mobile, AL 36602, United States

Have more time? Why not check out some of the things to do in Orange Beach, AL ?

21. Spot of Tea

Spot of Tea ( Jimmy Emerson, DVM / flickr )

Spot of Tea is one of those quaint, cozy sites that you’d expect to see in a slice-of-life movie about New York City .

The good news is that you don’t have to travel all of the way to the Big Apple to experience it.

You can enjoy it right in the heart of Mobile, Alabama!

Offering everything from dainty flatbread sandwiches to loaded baked potatoes served with tomato bisque, Spot of Tea has a delectable menu that’ll suit every craving.

As befitting its name, it also offers many wonderful flavors of tea that can be served to you with full tea ceremony.

Other attractive features of the shop include indoor/outdoor dining facilities as well as pet-friendly seating and great views of the local greenery.

If you’re looking for the top places to visit in Mobile, consider Spot of Tea.

It’s cute; it’s charming; it serves delicious cuppas out of a beautifully historic building situated in the heart of Alabama.

What’s not to love?

Address: 310 Dauphin St, Mobile, AL 36602, United States

22. History Museum of Mobile

History Museum of Mobile

Housed in the old city hall building, the History Museum of Mobile is easily distinguished from the rest of the neighborhood with its stately, ivory-white architecture.

It cuts a truly impressive figure in downtown Mobile.

The interior is just as nice as the exterior, too.

There are a wide range of exhibits that showcase everything from Egyptian mummies to Native American totem poles.

As befitting a city museum, there’s also plenty of information about locals who pioneered the emergence of Mobile as a major player in the state.

Other stuff to do includes tours, classes, workshops and kids’ activities.

“Free Sunday” takes place every weekend and waives admission fees.

“Night at the Museum” takes place in the evening and is fun for the whole family with games, stories and scavenger hunts.

There are even “Living History Days” with costumed actors who partake in everything from laundry demonstrations to live battles with muskets!

If you’re looking for interesting things to do in Mobile, consider taking a trip through the past with the History Museum of Mobile.

Address: 111 S Royal St, Mobile, AL 36602, United States

23. The Shoppes at Bel Air

NitekMobilian , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

With size, scale and variety, the Shoppes at Bel Air are a premiere shopping destination in the south.

In fact, you could even call them one of the biggest points of interest south of the Mason-Dixie line.

What makes this mall so special?

For starters, it’s an entirely indoor complex, so it can be enjoyed rain or shine.

It’s also staggeringly huge; its square footage tops more than 1.3 million feet, so if you’re looking to shop ’til you drop, this is definitely the place for it.

Other cool things about the mall include its wide variety of shops, including many upscale shops and boutiques that you can’t find in the more rural areas of Alabama.

Between shopping, dining and socializing, the Shoppes at Bel Air can offer a luxurious vacation experience that more than lives up to its namesake.

It might not be the real Bel Air, but it’s certainly the southern version of it!

Address: 3299 Joe Treadwell Dr, Mobile, AL 36606, United States

24. TimberCreek Golf Club

TimberCreek Golf Club

While there’s nothing wrong with the down-home fun of small country festivals, there’s something to be said about luxurious experiences as well.

If you’re looking for upscale places to visit in Mobile, you might like the TimberCreek Golf Club .

Beautifully cultivated fairways were designed by award-winning architects.

Full-service restaurants, practice areas and meeting rooms are available when you’re done on the green.

If you aren’t a master golfer, that’s okay.

Lessons and even private instruction can be arranged.

The TimberCreek Golf Club is one of the best vacation spots for classy travelers in Alabama.

If you’re wondering what to do in the state when money isn’t an object, enjoy a refreshing, all-inclusive afternoon on the green.

Address: 9650 Timbercreek Blvd, Spanish Fort, AL 36527, United States

25. Cooper Riverside Park

Cooper Riverside Park

If you don’t have time to hit the rugged terrain of Alabama’s wilderness, you can still enjoy a moment of peace and tranquility in a place like Cooper Riverside Park.

Located on the waterfront, Cooper Riverside Park offers three acres of natural scenery that will make you feel like you’re in the middle of an island or a lush botanical garden.

In addition to fantastic views of the bay, there are also picturesque water fountains, experimental outdoor sculptures and a wide variety of trails, benches and other amenities for those passing through.

The park also plays host to different events throughout the year, so if you enjoy fun things like festivals, art sales and outdoor concerts, it can be a venue worth checking out.

Not all Mobile attractions are flashy things.

If you’re just looking for a quiet place to take a breather in the middle of a hectic vacation, Cooper Riverside Park can be your urban oasis.

Address: 101 S Water St, Mobile, AL 36602, United States

26. Alabama Contemporary Art Center

Alabama Contemporary Art Center

Oh no! The clouds are brewing during your tour of the city.

What are some things to do in Mobile that’ll keep you dry and entertained?

The Alabama Contemporary Art Center is one potential solution.

It’s completely indoors, so you won’t get soaked or chilled.

It’s also captivating even if you aren’t usually an art connoisseur, so its exhibitions will keep you wandering from room to room with interest.

You see, the art center isn’t one of those old, traditional museums.

If focuses only on contemporary pieces, so it utilizes things like poetry, music, light, mixed media and even natural earth elements to produce cutting-edge pieces with lots of meaning.

If you’re wondering what to see in Mobile on a rainy day, dash under your umbrella to the Alabama Contemporary Art Center.

Its trendy artwork is sure to make an impression, so it’ll leave you with a fun vacation memory of your time in the south.

Address: 301 Conti St, Mobile, AL 36602, United States

27. Airboat Adventures

Airboat Adventures

Say goodbye to the city with a trip down the Mobile-Tensaw River Delta.

With Airboat Adventures , you can enjoy a fun, unique experience on a motorized airboat even as you cruise down the water and take in all of the sights.

What will you see on the water?

It depends on the season, but since wildlife is aplenty in the delta, it could include gators, bears, hawks, turtles, eagles and more.

Since you’ll be on an airboat, you won’t have windows limiting your view; you’ll see the critters live and in the flesh as the wind whips through your hair and the spray of the water hits your face.

Bow fishing tours are also available with the airboats, so if you want to bag a flounder or two, book an all-inclusive trip.

No experience is necessary; the captain can teach you on the fly.

All vacations must come to an end, but with Airboat Adventures, at least you can say farewell in a lovely way.

Blow a kiss to the shoreline as you gaze out at the distant sight of Mobile one last time.

If you’re lucky, an alligator will swim by to give you an awesome vacation story once you’re back home!

Address: 3775 Battleship Pkwy, Spanish Fort, AL 36527, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Mobile

These are just a few good things to do in Mobile, Alabama.

Whether you’re planning an elaborate vacation or simply passing through during a longer trip, use these destinations to have a great time while you’re in town!

Happy travels.

• Things to Do