THE WHARF IN ORANGE BEACH

Harris Vacations Staff Writer | December 8, 2022

What’s on your agenda for a fun-filled vacation? Restaurants, spas, concerts, family fun? What if we told you all of this was less than a hop, skip, and a jump away? And not only that, it’s all in the same area? This wonderful area is The Wharf in Orange Beach, Alabama.

If you’re at a loss for what to do in Gulf Shores, whether because people can’t agree on where to go or you just don’t know the area, the The Wharf in Orange Beach is where you should start. With restaurants, entertainment, games, and more here, you could spend the entire day here and come back the next day for more.

The Essentials of a Day Out

Nothing in particular on your mind? Come here for everything you need to enjoy a day out. The wide array of restaurants is sure to please, especially if you’re in the mood for fresh seafood. From fine dining to casual family-friendly dining, from burgers to tacos to lasagna, there’s something here for every taste. Looking for a family-friendly, casual dining experience? Try STKburger (burgers, wings, and lobster rolls!), Ginny Lane Bar and Grill (fresh, local seafood and Certified Black Angus Beef, a kids’ menu, craft brews and cocktails with a great waterfront view), or The Southern Grind Coffee House (specialty coffees, sandwiches and salads, pastries, and their special gelato). Or try the Villaggio Grill for fine Italian-inspired dining. Just need dessert? You’re sure to find what you crave at Dippin’ Dots, Kilwins (serving delicious confections since 1947) or the Sugar Shack. How about a quick snack? Gulf Coast House of Jerky has so many interesting flavors of jerky, you’ll want to try them all: beef, buffalo, fish, pineapple, pork, turkey, alligator, shark, python, elk, venison, kangaroo and more.

After you’ve got the kids some ice cream, don’t forget a cool adult beverage for yourself! Island Time Daiquiris, Kentucky Mist Distillery, and YoHo Rum and Tacos (custom cocktails and tacos!) will keep your thirst quenched. Or hit The Sandshaker, home of the original Bushwacker! They have live music and are open late!

The spas and parlors at The Wharf are a great place to treat yourself for an hour and feel like a new person. And of course, there’s shopping too. Stores here fill every niche, from fashion to sports gear, and work by local artists so you’re sure to find a souvenir for folks back home!

Diversions and Excitement

The fun here never stops—or at least, not until early morning. Take a cruise around the gulf on one of the charter boat services to enjoy the sea breeze up close. The Marina at The Wharf offers everything from dolphin watching tours and sunset cruises to deep sea fishing adventures. Go for a round of mini-golf and test your skills in a fun environment.

If you’re looking for something more fast-paced, check out Arena: The Next Level for laser tag and more! Try out the newest arcade games, play Bazooka Ball, and if you dare, check out the Outer Limits VR arcade, with five fully immersive rides you won’t believe. Grab your group and head for the Breakout Orange Beach escape room, choose from several different scenarios (including The Kidnapping, Hostage and Operation: Casino) and try to break out in time!

Looking for more excitement? Get in line for the Hummingbird Zipline Course! Zip across the area via eight tower spots covering over 6,000 feet. And the zipline’s photographer will be sure to have taken a great souvenir pic of you zipping through the trees!

And of course, nothing beats a leisurely ride on the Ferris wheel to enjoy the views. One of the tallest Ferris wheels in the Southeast, this landmark attraction is a great way to end your day. After sunset, many places are still open for you to carouse and enjoy the evening. Stick around for The Wharf’s free sound and light show – SPECTRA! Free to the public, this nightly show features popular music and synchronized lighting effects, all on The Wharf’s Main Street.

The Entertainment District even allows you to take your drinks with you when you leave! You could spend most of your vacation visiting just The Wharf in Orange Beach, Alabama!

A Cultural Hub

Check the calendar for the The Wharf in Orange Beach and you’ll see major events that bring people from across the southern shores. The Wharf Orange Beach hosts big events such as egg hunts for Easter and shows for Independence Day.

Time for movie night? Head to the AMC Classic Wharf15 for classic movies like A League of Their Own, Clueless and more. And The Amphitheater brings in some huge names in the entertainment industry, such as Jimmy Buffet, Chicago in Concert, Luke Bryan, Journey in Concert, Tedeschi Trucks Band, and Green Day. If you can, check out when these names are playing and plan around them!

Happy Days with Harris Vacation Rentals

If all this sounds great to you, then you should get a rental with Harris Vacation Rentals. You’ll not only be less than a half hour from The Wharf in Orange Beach, Alabama, but you’ll also be near great nature sites like the Alabama Birding Trail and great historic sites like Fort Morgan. Plus, you’ll be living in style with our rental properties! You can have it all—just call 1-877-446-4853 to discover what a great vacation you can have in Gulf Shores, Alabama!


RESOURCES

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