historic fort morgan

How To Have the Best Vacation in Gulf Shores in September

When you visit the Alabama Gulf Coast during the summer months, you’ll find that area is bustling with lots of vacationers. If you want to explore our charming beach town during a calmer time, you should visit Gulf Shores in September. This is one of our favorite times of the year here, and we’ll tell you why! 

Start getting excited about your getaway to Gulf Shores in September! Let our team do the searching for you, so you can focus on what matters most: making unforgettable memories with your loved ones. You can experience sunset cruises, sailing charters, parasailing, and more! 

Have a Blast in Gulf Shores in September 

No matter what time of the year you visit, there’s always something fun going on in Gulf Shores—and September does not fall short! 

Labor Day 

One of the most anticipated days in Gulf Shores in September is Labor Day! Take advantage of the three-day weekend and head to the coast. One of the best ways to celebrate the holiday is to head to the sand for a relaxing beach day. Whether you prefer to swim in the water, work on your tan, or play beach games, you’ll have the best day ever at our picturesque white-sand beaches 

Bulls on the Beach 

Do you want to attend an adrenaline-filled evening that’s exciting for the whole family? Head to Bulls on the Beach at Flora-Bama Lounge & Oyster Bar and experience thrilling rodeo action. This event spans over three nights and is one of the area’s most anticipated events of the year. Bulls on the Beach features professional bull riding, mechanical bulls, and contests for children.  

CSpire Concert Series 

There’s nothing like attending an amazing concert by the beach. Each year, The Wharf Amphitheater hosts impressive live shows featuring top-notch artists. In past years, the CSpire Concert series has welcomed Luke Combs, Zac Brown Band, Jim Gaffigan, and Hootie and The Blowfish. This year, you can look forward to all-star lineups, including Chris Stapleton, Jimmy Buffett, and more! 

Gulf State Park Turtle Fest 

Sea turtles are fascinating creatures that call our Gulf Coast beaches home. You can learn all about these beautiful animals at the Gulf State Park Turtle Fest. The festival includes sea turtle education classes, pier walks, sea turtle nest demos, a TED exhibit, crafts, and more! This event is only $3 to attend and is held annually at the Gulf State Park Fishing and Education Pier 

Fort Morgan Ghost Investigation and Historical Haunted Tour 

Do you have a love for the supernatural and paranormal? We’ve got the perfect activity for you! This September, join the members of Second Sight Paranormal TV for a full-blown ghost and paranormal investigation at Fort Morgan—one of Alabama’s most haunted places. The Fort Morgan State Historic Site guides will educate guests on the fascinating historical background of the fort. Then, you’ll get handed state-of-the-art ghost hunting equipment and start your spooky evening. Reservations are required for this event! 

Stay With Harris Vacation Rentals 

Perdido Key Luxury Rentals

Whether you want to visit the Gulf Coast during spring, summer, fall, or winter, Harris Vacation Rentals will have the perfect vacation home for you! We offer properties throughout Fort MorganGulf Shores, and Orange Beach, ranging in size and shape. If you’re looking for a home with a private pool, elevator, deck, or beach views—we’ve got you covered! 

 

How To Have the Best Pet-Friendly Vacation in Gulf Shores, Alabama

A vacation to the Alabama Gulf Coast has something fun for everyone in the family, including your four-legged family members! Here at Harris Vacation Rentals, we offer a wide array of pet-friendly vacation rentals in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort MorganIf you want to get out and about during your trip, you don’t have to leave your dog at home. There’s plenty of activities throughout the area where you can bring Fido. Keep reading to learn how you can have the best pet-friendly vacation in Gulf Shores 

As you get excited about your Gulf Shores getaway, you’ll want to start booking fun-filled activities to enjoy during your vacation. You can book all your excursions in one convenient place with OnceThere 

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Your PetFriendly Vacation in Gulf Shores 

Whether you want to spend the day on the beach sunbathing and swimming, explore the great outdoors, or sit down for a delicious bite to eat, there’s plenty of ways that your dog can get in on the fun with you during a pet-friendly vacation in Gulf Shores 

Dog-Friendly Beaches and Parks Along the Alabama Gulf Coast 

dog on beach

  • Fort Morgan Beach – Compared to beaches in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Fort Morgan Beach is considerably more serene and private. If you want to spend the day in the sugar-white sand, your leashed pooch is welcome to join you. Dogs are permitted between the Old Fisherman’s Warf and Fort Morgan Pier.  
  • Orange Beach Waterfront Park – This gulf-front spot is a fantastic place to spend the day with your human and fur kids. The park features a 400-foot fishing pier, scenic walking paths, picnic areas with grills, and restrooms.  
  • Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail – Reconnect with Mother Nature and head to the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail. This area consists of interconnected nature trails that span over 27 miles. Your pup will have a blast exploring the trails and roaming through swamplands, freshwater marshes, and lush forests.  
  • Gulf State Park – At Gulf State Park, your dog can join you for hikes along their nature trails. If you want to let your pup run free off-leash, that’s an option at their Dog Pond. Here, you’ll find obstacles for agility training, communal toys like tennis balls and hoops, and an exercise course that includes jumps, weaves, tunnels, and more! 

Other Dog-Friendly Attractions 

  • Tiki’s Mini Golf – indulge in a bit of friendly competition with a round of miniature golf. At Tiki’s Mini Golf, well-behaved canines on leashes are welcome. This 18-hole course is shaded by majestic oak trees, keeping you and your dog cool during hot summer days.  
  • Historic Fort Morgan – Go back in time and visit this fascinating Civil War-era fort. Your leashed dog is welcome to join you as you explore the barracks and watch live re-enactments. Fort Morgan guards the entrance to Mobile Bay, which has sandy beaches for dogs to explore.    

Dog-Friendly Restaurants Near Gulf Shores 

dog at restaurant

Pick Your Gulf Shores Pet-Friendly Rental 

house

When it comes to pet-friendly vacation rentals, we’ve got you covered. We know that pet-sitters and kennels can be expensive, so why not bring man’s best friend along with you? Harris Vacation Rentals offers pet-friendly house rentals throughout Gulf ShoresOrange Beach, and Fort Morgan. Many of these homes feature Gulf viewsprivate pools, hot tubs, game rooms, and more!  

Check our availability and start planning your Alabama Gulf Coast vacation. We can’t wait to host you!

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Here Are 5 of the Best Things to Do in Fort Morgan

Does anything sound better than a relaxing getaway to a beautiful beach on the Gulf Coast? We don’t think so! You’ll find exactly what you’re looking for in Fort Morgan, a secluded and charming vacation destination just 30 minutes from Gulf Shores. There are so many awesome things to do in Fort Morgan, like hitting the beach, enjoying nature, and experiencing the community’s history. Read on to discover our favorites! Then, book the ultimate family vacation rental with Harris Vacation Rentals.

Book Your Family Vacation Today!

Don’t Miss These 5 Fun Things to Do in Fort Morgan, Alabama

 

1. Dine at Tacky Jack’s

Tacky Jack’s offers delicious waterfront dining for a fraction of the cost. The restaurant is open for three meals a day and is a favorite hangout for locals. Tacky Jack’s serves up tasty Southern seafood dishes with a side of stunning ocean views! This no-frills, family-friendly eatery is one of our favorite Fort Morgan restaurants.

2. Take a Class at Sand Castle University

Take your sandcastle building skills to the next level with a lesson at Sand Castle University! These expert sandcastle builders meet you on the beach with their specialty sand tools to create unique and memorable sculptures. They offer two different classes, so if you love your first session, you can sign up for another. Going to school has never been so fun!

3. Explore the Fort Morgan Road Trail

Strolling this 11-mile converted rail line is one of the best free things to do in Fort Morgan. We recommend starting on the east side of the trail at Cafe Beignets. Enjoy a tasty breakfast pastry and then continue west toward the Peninsula Golf & Racquet Club. Hike or bike along the Fort Morgan Rail Trail and admire the town’s picturesque scenery.

4. Visit the Fort Morgan Historic Site

At the tip of the Fort Morgan Peninsula, you’ll find the Fort Morgan Historic Site, a Third System masonry fort first used during the Civil War. There are plenty of events to check out at the fort as well, including guided tours, photo exhibits, and arms demonstrations. The fort is open every day and is also pet-friendly, making it the perfect stop for the history buff in your family.

5. Enjoy a Fort Morgan Sunset

One of the top five sights around Gulf Shores is a Fort Morgan sunset. We recommend parking past the Mobile Bay Ferry terminal and walking down to the beach in the evening. Bring a blanket, sink your toes into the sand, and watch the sun dip into the water. You’ll have an excellent view of Mobile Bay to the north and the Gulf of Mexico to the south.

Find Your Perfect Fort Morgan Vacation Rental

Barefoot Beach Rental

After you’ve experienced the best things to do in Fort Morgan, come back and relax at your Harris Vacation Rentals vacation rental! With such a wide variety of accommodations, you’re sure to find the right home for your family. 

Want to treat yourself and your loved ones to a luxurious property right on the beach? Barefoot is the rental for you! The home’s private pool is perfect for lounging and enjoying ocean views. Bonus: the pool is heated, making it ideal for off-season trips as well. The house also has a fully stocked gourmet kitchen, charcoal grill, elevator, and outdoor shower for your use. Why wait for your dream vacation? Check our availability and book today!
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