road trip to gulf shores

Jan 11 2022

The Best Guide To Traveling From Huntsville, AL, to Gulf Shores, AL

People from all over Alabama travel south to the coast for relaxing and fun-filled beach getaways. One popular city that we have a lot of guests from is Huntsville. If you’re traveling from Huntsville, AL, to Gulf Shores, AL, we’ll help you plan your trip every step of the way. Whether you’d prefer to drive or fly, we’ve got you covered!

How will you make the most out of your vacation in Gulf Shores, Alabama? Stay with us at Harris Vacation Rentals and bypass scrolling through Google to find the activities and services you may need. Let our team do the searching for you, so you can focus on what matters most: making unforgettable memories with your loved ones.

All About Traveling from Huntsville, AL, to Gulf Shores

If you’re planning a road trip from Huntsville or you’re considering flying, we’ll help you make your vacation planning go off without a hitch!

Pack the Car and Hit the Road

The driving distance from Huntsville, AL, to Gulf Shores is about 375 miles, with the travel time being less than six hours. The cost to drive between cities is cheaper than booking a flight, so this is a popular transportation option among our guests.

If the driving time from Huntsville to Gulf Shores is a little long for you, consider making some pit stops along the way. Halfway between Huntsville, AL, and Gulf Shores, you’ll find Montgomery, AL. Stop here to stretch your legs and grab a bit to eat, or spend the night here. Montgomery is the capital of Alabama and home to lots of unique attractions, such as the Civil Rights Memorial Center, Rosa Parks Library and Museum, Hank Williams Museum, and Montgomery Zoo.

Fly in the Sky

If saving money on gas prices isn’t one of your concerns, consider flying to the Alabama Gulf Coast. Huntsville is home to an international airport (HSV), and the closest international airport to Gulf Shores is located in Pensacola, Florida (PNS). The flight distance between the cities is only 300 miles; however, there aren’t currently any direct flights offered. That means that flight time can be increased (depending on how long your layover is), so keep that in mind.

Once you arrive in Pensacola, you can rent a car or take a rideshare service to Gulf Shores. You’ll be less than 40 miles, from your final destination and the trip will only take about an hour. Before you know it, you’ll be at your dream vacation spot!

Stay at One of the Best Vacation Rentals on the Gulf

Whether you want to drive from Huntsville, AL, to Gulf Shores or book a flight, a fun-filled, unforgettable adventure is in your future! Where will you make your home base during this exciting time? Harris Vacation Rentals is here for you! We offer top-notch vacation rentals throughout the Alabama Gulf Coast, and we’d love to host you and your group.

No matter which one of our properties you choose to stay in, you’ll always be close to all the best things about Gulf Shores. If you’re interested in fishing, hitting the beaches, renting a boat, or exploring delicious restaurants, you’ll be good to go!

Dec 02 2021

Experience the Best Vacation From Chicago to Gulf Shores, AL

It’s no secret that Chicago is known as “The Windy City” and has lots of chilly weather? Are you craving a getaway to the warm and sunny Gulf Coast? Pack your bags and head to Gulf Shores, Alabama! Our quirky beach town is filled with fun-filled adventures, lively bars, and a delicious culinary scene. It doesn’t get any better than that! Learn how you can have the ultimate escape from Chicago to Gulf Shores.

After reading this blog, you’ll know all the details about the trip from Chicago, IL, to Gulf Shores, AL. Now you need to start figuring out the rest of the exciting details! Check out our accommodations to find the perfect vacation home for your stay. Plus, let our team do the activity searching for you, so you can focus on what matters most: making unforgettable memories with your loved ones.

Getaway From Chicago to Gulf Shores

With our help, planning a trip from Chicago to Gulf Shores is as easy as 1, 2, 3!

1. Reserve Your Dream Vacation Rental

You can’t plan a trip without a place to rest your head and make your home base. When it comes to vacation rentals in Gulf Shores, Harris Vacation Rentals is your headquarters. We offer top-notch vacation rentals in beach towns along the coast, including Gulf Shores, Fort Morgan, and Orange Beach. Each property ranges in size and price, so it’s easy to find the perfect place for you.

Each of our rental properties features five-star amenities to make you feel at home. Whether you want a private pool, elevator, covered deck, game room, or breathtaking beach views, we’ve got you covered here. With the help of Harris Vacation Rentals, the ultimate getaway awaits!

2. Book Your Travel

Now it’s time to figure out your travel plans. The distance from Chicago to Gulf Shores is about 940 miles. So that means the driving time is roughly 14 ½ hours long. That is a bit of a long road trip—but if that’s your preferred journey, then go for it! If the drive from Chicago to Gulf Shores is too much for you, booking a flight is your best move.

The best way to fly from Chicago to Gulf Shores is to leave from O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and fly into Pensacola International Airport (PNS). You’ll find an array of airlines to choose from that offer connecting flights between the two airports. These airlines include United, Delta, Spirit, Southwest, and more.

After you arrive at the Pensacola airport, it’s time to make your way to Gulf Shores. The driving distance from Pensacola to Gulf Shores is just under 40 miles and only about an hour long. Rent a car, hop in a cab, or order an Uber and head for the coast!

3. Make the Most Out of Your Stay at the Beach

You did it! You’ve arrived in our one-of-a-kind beach town of Gulf Shores. How will you make the most out of your stay here? Our town is filled with endless things to do and see. Whether you’re focused on relaxing in the sand, indulging in the delicious local food scene, or checking out unique attractions and outdoor adventures, we’ve got you covered here. These are some of the most popular things to do in Gulf Shores:

Soar through the blue skies over the ocean and go parasailing
Get up close and personal with nature on a dolphin cruise
Try deep-sea fishing or go fishing along the coast
Cool off at a local waterpark
Explore the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
Sip on a local lager at Big Beach Brewing Company
Play beach games at Gulf State Park
Get a birds’ eye view of the area with a helicopter tour
Go paddleboarding or kayaking through our back bays

One of the best parts of any trip is indulging in new restaurants. After all, calories don’t’ count when you’re on vacation—right?! Some of the most popular eateries in the area include:

Lulu’s, Gulf Shores
The Hangout, Gulf Shores
S&S Seafood Market, Gulf Shores
Bahama Bob’s Beach Side Café, Gulf Shores
Doc’s Seafood Shack & Oyster Bar, Orange Beach
Fisher’s Upstairs at Orange Beach Marina, Orange Beach
Kitty’s Kafe, Gulf Shores
Duck’s Diner, Orange Beach
And so many more!

Make Your Getaway Happen

Now you know everything about the perfect vacation from Chicago to Gulf Shores. It’s time to make it happen! Browse our collection of vacation rentals and find the perfect one for you. We can’t wait to host you on your Alabama Gulf Coast retreat!

Nov 04 2021

Mobile, AL, to Gulf Shores: Your Guide to the Best Road Trip Ever

Road trips are always a fantastic idea, especially if the destination is as exciting as Gulf Shores, Alabama. One of the areas that we get the most travelers from is Mobile, AL. If you’re from that area and you’re ready to head south for an unforgettable beach getaway, you’re in the right spot! We’ll tell you how to plan the ultimate road trip from Mobile, AL, to Gulf Shores.

After reading this blow, you’ll know all the details about the trip from Mobile, AL, to Gulf Shores, AL. Now you need to start figuring out the rest of the details. Check out our accommodations to find the perfect vacation home for your group. Also, bypass scrolling through Google to find the activities and services you may need. Let our team do the searching for you, so you can focus on what matters most: making unforgettable memories with your loved ones.

Getaway From Mobile, AL, to Gulf Shores

With our help, it’s easy to start planning a road trip from Mobile to Gulf Shores. The ultimate adventure awaits!

Load up the Car and Hit the Road

The distance from Mobile to the Alabama Gulf Coast is approximately 55 miles. That means that the driving time is only about an hour to get to Gulf Shores. It’s the perfect location for a quick weekend escape or a weeklong vacation. All you have to do is follow I-10 East and Baldwin Beach Express to Foley Beach Express in Baldwin County. You’ll continue on Foley Beach Express until you reach your destination in Gulf Shores.

If you’d prefer to drive along the coast, an alternative route is taking US-98 East. When you go that way, you can stop halfway between Mobile, AL, and Gulf Shores in Fairhope, AL. It’s the best choice for a pit stop for using the bathroom or getting a snack. Fairhope is a vibrant town that’s known for its picturesque parks and panoramic views of Mobile Bay. Stop in one of their charming waterfront eateries and grab lunch before you hit the road again.

Make the Most Out of Your Stay in Gulf Shores

You did it! You’ve arrived in our lively beach town of Gulf Shores. How will you make the most out of your stay? Our town is filled with exciting things to do and see. Whether you’re focused on relaxing on the beach, indulging in delicious seafood, or checking out unique attractions, we’ve got you covered here. These are some of the most popular things to do during a Gulf Shores getaway:

Soar through the blue skies over the ocean and go parasailing
Get up close and personal with nature on a dolphin cruise
Try deep sea fishing or go fishing along the coast
Cool off at a local waterpark
Treat yourself to delicious, fresh-caught seafood
Explore the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
Sip on a local lager at Big Beach Brewing Company
Play beach games at Gulf State Park
Get a birds’ eye view of the area with a helicopter tour
Go paddleboarding or kayaking through our back bays

The Perfect Destination Deserves the Perfect Vacation Rental

As you’re planning your vacation in Gulf Shores, you’ll need somewhere to make your home base. Harris Vacation Rentals offers the biggest and best collection of vacation rentals along the Gulf Coast. We offer properties of all sizes in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan. No matter how big or small your group is, we’ve got you covered. Plus, we offer five-star amenities, including private pools, beach access, game rooms, elevators, pet-friendly properties, and more!

Aug 18 2020

How To Make the Amazing Trip From Atlanta, GA, To Gulf Shores, AL

Are you craving an escape from the hustle and bustle of the big city? Make the trip from Atlanta, Georgia, to Gulf Shores, Alabama. With its white sandy beaches, family-friendly atmosphere, and fantastic vacation rentals. There’s nowhere better to go than Gulf Shores! Keep reading to how you can embark on a trip from Atlanta, GA, to Gulf Shores, AL.

When you arrive in Gulf Shores, you’ll want to explore everything that this charming coastal area offers. To book fun-filled activities at affordable prices in one convenient place, use TripShock. Our program makes booking Gulf Coast adventures easy!

Head From Atlanta, GA, To Gulf Shores, AL

The distance from Atlanta to Gulf Shores is approximately 348 miles. This makes it the perfect spot for a convenient getaway with manageable travel times. Whether you prefer to fly or drive, there are options to make this trip perfect for you.

Road Trip

Pack the car and take a road trip down south. The drive from Atlanta, GA, to Gulf Shores, AL, only takes about five and a half hours. The route is relatively straight and follows along I-85 South and I-65 South.

If you want to break up the trip, Montgomery, AL, is the perfect place for a pit stop. After leaving Atlanta, you’ll reach Montgomery in just under two and a half hours. As the capital of the state, there’s plenty of things to see and do in this city. Some of the most popular things to do in Montgomery include visiting the Rosa Parks Library and Museum, Montgomery Zoo, and Hank Williams Museum.

Flying

If you’d prefer to fly instead of driving, that’s a viable option. You can fly out of the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) and into the Pensacola International Airport (PNS). The flight only takes a little over an hour. Once you land, you can rent a car or take a transportation service to Gulf Shores. That car ride is approximately one hour long.

Explore Everything That Gulf Shores Has To Offer

You did it! You’ve made it to the Gulf of Mexico. Make the most out of your vacation and explore everything that this one of a kind area has to offer.

Hit the Beach

When you live in Atlanta, you’re landlocked. Luckily for you, Gulf Shores isn’t far away, and it’s home to incredible beaches. Voted one of the best beaches by Coastal Living magazine, Gulf Shores Beach is famous for its unbelievably sugary-white sands. Spend your days relaxing by the shoreline, building sandcastles with your family, or taking a dip in the ocean. From jet skiing to parasailing to beach volleyball, there’s always fun to be had at the beach!

Experience Alabama Gulf State Park

One of the most gorgeous places to visit in Gulf Shores is Alabama State Park. The park has a variety of incredible sights and activities for people of all ages to enjoy. Gulf State Park is home to Hugh S. Branyon Back Country Trail, the largest paved trail network in the United States. It weaves its way through the town and links to a series of hiking and biking trails. The park also features a scenic golf course where you can practice your swing.

Have a Blast at an Amusement Park

Head just a few minutes up the road and make your way over to The Park at OWA. This unbelievable amusement park features 23 different attractions, thrilling rides, can’t miss events, and some of the most delicious park food you have ever experienced. It also offers 10000 square feet of water park fun. Whether you’re young or old, The Park at OWA has something for everyone.

Gulf Shores is home to more than one amusement park. Since its opening, Waterville USA became one of the premier entertainment destinations for families vacationing along the Alabama Gulf Coast. The excitement never stops at this park. One of the most popular attractions is the Flowrider. Channel your inner surfer and ride over a continuous wave. You can practice all your tricks on a perfect wave with no fear of falling or injury! If you’re a thrill–seeker, then you’ll want to get in line for Great White. This world-class one, two, and three passenger tubing adventure sends you through the jaws of a Great White Shark, a tunnel, a waterfall, and a quick drop to the lagoon below. This ride is the Gulf Coast’s most awesome tube ride.

Stay in a Luxurious Vacation Rental

When you arrive in Gulf Shores, you’ll need somewhere to rest your head and make your home away from home. Here at Harris Vacation Rentals, we’ve been making dream vacations a reality for over three decades. We’re happy to offer vacation homes of all shapes and sizes and varying amenities for whatever your group needs. We provide pet-friendly rentals, homes with private pools, and more. We even offer properties in Fort Morgan and Orange Beach, in addition to Gulf Shores.

One of our standout properties is 50 Shades of Blue. This 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home is perfect for any beach lover. Located right in the heart of Gulf Shores, guests will be able to access the area’s best attractions easily. It’s situated directly across from the beach and features two decks, giving it the ultimate coastal appeal. This pet-friendly home offers a fully-equipped kitchen, spacious bedrooms, a laundry room, and more!

There’s no time to waste! Check our availability and find the perfect vacation rental for you. We can’t wait to see you in Gulf Shores!

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