The Beautiful Gulf Coast Of Alabama…

is there a more beautiful location in the state of Alabama than its glorious Gulf Coast?

There are many who would say you would be hard pressed to find a more stunning beach than the sugar white sandy beaches found in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores.

Just feeling the fine sand between your toes makes you long to make this slice of heaven your new home.

There are many things to do in the Gulf Coast of Alabama.

Families adore the winner of the 2006 Alabama Tourism’s Director’s Award which is none other than the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo.

Set on 16 acres and home to lions and tigers and bears, oh my, this zoo is home to over 300 animals enjoying their natural habitat and just waiting for your visit. The zoo boast of paved pathways throughout the and elevated observation decks allowing you to enjoy the beautiful and majestic animals without anything blocking your view.

Another of the Gulf Coast of Alabama’s gem cities is Mobile, Alabama.

This grand dame of cities is home to the very first American Mardi Gras!

Who knew!

Mobile and not New Orleans hosted the original Mardi Gras. Celebrating for weeks preceding the actual day of Mardi Gras, those in Mobile take this event seriously and have enjoyed celebrating it to the fullest since French soldiers brought the tradition to America over 300 years ago.

Mobile also is home to several museums including the Richard DAR House and the Oakleigh’s Historic House Museum. The Dar House is an1860 antebellum townhouse located at 256 N. Joachim Street in Mobile.

This home is a striking example of Italianate style and the walled in garden, marbled mantles hovering above the majestic fireplaces and the cantilevered staircase will simply take your breath away. The Oakleigh’s Historic House Museum is actually a collection of three different homes.

First there is the Oakleigh, a lovely Greek revival home, which has been recognized as Mobile’s official antebellum museum. Also on the complex you will find the Cox-Deasy, a Creole cottage thought to have been built around the 1850s. Finally you will enjoy the Mardi Gras Cottage complete with a collection of 19th- and early 20th century furnishings.

You absolutely must take the time to visit the Battle House Hotel which is back on the scene in Alabama’s Gulf Coast after being closed for 25 years. Originally built in 1908, this renaissance hotel located on Battle street reopened to happy guests and locals alike. Its beauty will leave you with a feeling of admiration for the workmanship in this beautiful hotel.

So you want to enjoy the beach on your vacation? Well you have made the right choice. Check out the crystal clear waters, the vividly colored sunsets, the miles and miles of white-sand beaches, championship golf courses, and numerous city parks and preserves and you have Orange Beach and Gulf Shores both of which can give you the perfect spot for that memorable vacation.

Don’t forget to set aside some time for shopping in Foley’s incredibly variety of outlet stores. The Tanger Outlet Stores located on South McKenzie Street present you with over 100 true outlet shops that brag about the fact that they give you 20-70% off retail prices. So grab your bag and get shopping. You can take home more than just memories of the beach!

Yes the Gulf Coast of Alabama has such variety and is bound to keep you entertained throughout your vacation. Whether it is lying on the beach or shopping at the outlet store or even getting a history lesson at one of the many museums, the Gulf Coast of Alabama is a great place to visit.

My guess is that once you’ve made one visit, you will be sure to return again and again.