| December 12, 2022
The history of Gulf Shores is a rich one, filled with colorful characters, exquisite architecture, and experiences that may seem foreign to anyone not from the South. Explained and exhibited in a vast array of Gulf Shores museum, you’ll finish up your Gulf Shores vacation with a deeper appreciation and greater understanding of life in the South after spending time in any of our fascinating museums. Our great staff has compiled a list of museums in Gulf Shores AL for your visiting pleasure—be sure and let us know which was your favorite!
Formerly a beach house, this charming Gulf Shores museum located within Gulf Shores proper is tiny…but mighty! Discover what life was like for early settlers in their “portrait of a fishing village” exhibit; coastal living came with challenges urban dwellers could not have experienced further inland. 244 W 19th Avenue, Gulf Shores.
Housed in what was formerly an old school house constructed in 1910, the Orange Beach Indian & Sea Museum offers a glimpse into the lives of Native Americans who made their homes in this region, as well as another peek into the lives of people making their living in a small coastal fishing village.
Southern architecture recalls sultry summer nights rocking on the veranda with a glass of sweet tea in hand, and the Swift-Coles Historic House is a fine example of this type of home and lifestyle. Two stories high with multiple balconies and verandas, this beautiful home, built in 1892, is famous for its historic Christmas celebrations. It’s about 20 minutes from Gulf Shores, but worth the drive!
Mobile is located about an hour east of Gulf Shores, but the museums found here are worth the trip—especially the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park. Home to submarine exhibits, aircraft exhibits, and, of course, the USS Alabama Battleship, military fans will be thrilled to spend a day exploring here.
Rediscover your youth in this model train museum, featuring elaborate model train displays from generations past. Located about 50 minutes away from Gulf Shores, your Mobile road trip won’t be complete without a stop in this free museum along the way!
As a Gulf Shores historic gem, Fort Morgan Historic Fort is definitely a must-see. Throughout the year, they offer numerous events that showcase the history of the site and local region. Re-enactors from all around gather together to recreate the life of the fort’s men and women. So if you’re looking to delve into a day of history, visit Fort Morgan!
Serving as the world’s largest Naval Aviation museum, come share and enjoy its rich history! With more than 150 beautifully restored aircraft that represent the Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard, you’ll be able to experience pieces of the most crucial parts of our history. Visit today and experience the 350,000 square feet of exhibits and the 37-acre grounds!
Explore the historical side of Gulf Shores, Alabama when you book a luxurious Harris Vacation Rentals vacation home today. Spend your fall days visiting local museums in Gulf Shores and your nights resting comfortably in one of our finest rental homes!
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