Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Biloxi, Mississippi to Orange Beach, Alabama
Are you planning a road trip from Biloxi, Mississippi to Orange Beach, Alabama? If so, there are many unexpected places you must stop at along the way. The trip may take around 2 hours, but it's worthwhile to take a few detours. Here are the five unexpected places that you must visit on your drive:
Halfway Point: Mobile, AL
Before we delve into the five unexpected places, we must mention the halfway point - Mobile, AL. Known for its history, culture, and beauty, it is undoubtedly one of the must-visit cities in Alabama. In Mobile, you can visit the famous USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park that showcases numerous aircraft and armored vehicles, a self-guided audio tour, and submarine tours. Additionally, one must head to the Mobile Bay to catch a glimpse of the dolphins and the magnificent sunset.
1. Dauphin Island, AL
On your way to Mobile, you will encounter Dauphin Island, one of the top underrated places along the Gulf Coast. The island is six miles long and one and a half miles wide, but it packs a punch with incredible seafood and the Dauphin Island Sea Lab Estuarium, an aquarium that is home to various sea creatures like jellyfish, stingrays, and sharks. While you're there, grab a bowl of gumbo at Islander's Restaurant. Trust us, it's a must-try!
2. Fairhope, AL
If you're someone who loves to explore small towns with a unique charm, then Fairhope is a place to visit. Located along Mobile Bay, Fairhope's downtown vicinity is ultra-quaint and perfect for a calming stroll while admiring the architecture and Southern hospitality. Additionally, you must visit Page & Palette, a local bookstore that is bustling with local authors, the English Tea Room, and The Warehouse Bakery, which serves delightful pastries and coffee.
3. Gulf State Park, AL
After your leisurely visits to Fairhope, drive to Gulf State Park before heading to Orange Beach. Gulf State Park is a 6,500-acre park that offers an array of recreational activities. From fishing spots and nature trails to outdoor movies and shelling, the park suits every person's unique interests. The beaches of Gulf State Park are breathtaking, and we recommend trying smoked tuna dip at The Lodge, their onsite restaurant.
4. Foley, AL
Foley is an excellent stop for travelers who want to appreciate the arts and antiques! It's home to the famous Tanger Outlets, which offers various stores for you to indulge in some retail therapy. The downtown area of Foley is popular for its antiquing scene. You can find various antique shops that offer a diverse variety of vintage items that are a mix of shabby-chic and southern charm. The must-visit restaurant in Foley is Wolf Bay Lodge, where you can try the signature shrimp and grits.
5. Pensacola Beach, FL
On your way to Orange Beach, you must stop at Pensacola Beach. The beaches at Pensacola Beach are known to be some of the top-ranked beaches in the country! As you make your way there, you will witness sugar-white sand and calm emerald waters. One must visit the National Naval Aviation Museum, where you can catch a glimpse of remarkable aircraft, or explore the boardwalk that offers various souvenir shops, street performers, and restaurants. The go-to restaurant when you're in Pensacola Beach is Peg Leg Pete's, which offers fresh seafood.
The allure of the Southern coastline is undeniable. The drive from Biloxi, Mississippi to Orange Beach, Alabama is a perfect example of that. One must indulge in all the adventures that the Gulf Coast of Alabama and Florida offer. So go ahead and plan your trip, to the five unexpected stops or more that'll make your heart sing!