By Captain Matt Swiggum | Back Bay Charters
Most people come to Orange Beach, Alabama, for the beaches.
And I understand why.
The white sand, warm summer water, and beautiful Gulf Coast scenery are some of the biggest reasons families return year after year.
But after a few days of swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles, you might find yourself wondering:
What else is there to do in Orange Beach besides the beach?
Quite a bit, actually.
You can explore coastal nature trails, watch wild dolphins from a boat, visit a local art gallery, learn about the area’s fishing history, enjoy family attractions, or spend an evening at The Wharf.
And some of the best activities aren’t even directly on the beach.
I’m Captain Matt with Back Bay Charters. I spend much of my working time on the waterways around Orange Beach, and I believe one of the best things about this area is how much variety it offers.
Whether you’re visiting with young children, teenagers, grandparents, or just your spouse, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the Alabama Gulf Coast beyond sitting in a beach chair.
In this guide, I’ll share my recommendations for things to do away from the sand, including activities for rainy days, families, couples, and visitors who want to experience a different side of Orange Beach.
I’ll also explain how to plan your days without spending your entire vacation driving between attractions.
If you’re still deciding when to visit, our Orange Beach Travel Almanac explains how the weather, attractions, wildlife, and general vacation experience change throughout the year.
1. Explore The Wharf in Orange Beach
One of the easiest places to start is The Wharf.
Located along Canal Road in Orange Beach, The Wharf is an entertainment district with restaurants, shopping, attractions, and seasonal events.
It’s a good choice when your family wants a change of scenery without spending an entire day on an excursion.
You can walk around the shopping district, grab ice cream, enjoy a meal, or check out the Ferris wheel.
Depending on the schedule, there may also be concerts, festivals, or other special events.
Why Families Enjoy The Wharf
The Wharf works well for families because you can make the outing as short or as long as you want.
Some visitors spend a couple of hours shopping and eating.
Others come specifically for entertainment or a scheduled event.
For families with younger children, it can be a convenient afternoon activity after a relaxing morning.
For couples, it’s a nice place for dinner and an evening walk.
What About Rainy Weather?
The Wharf has indoor businesses and entertainment options, but its shopping district is largely outdoors.
It’s worth visiting during a cloudy or cooler day, but don’t assume every attraction will be enjoyable during heavy rain or lightning.
Check the official Wharf website for current merchants, events, and operating information.
Best for: Families, couples, shopping, restaurants, and relaxed afternoons.
2. Visit the Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach
One attraction that deserves more attention is the Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach.
Located on Canal Road overlooking Wolf Bay, the center gives visitors an opportunity to explore the area’s creative side.
Its art gallery features work by Gulf Coast artists, and the campus includes studios devoted to glass and clay.
This is a completely different experience from spending the day on a boat or at the beach.
Watch Glassblowing or Explore the Gallery
The Hot Shop is a particularly interesting feature.
Visitors may be able to watch glass artists working, and hands-on glass experiences are offered by appointment.
The gallery is also worth exploring for visitors interested in local art.
Can Kids Participate?
Some creative experiences have minimum-age requirements.
For example, the center lists a minimum age of eight for its glassblowing lessons, while other programs may have different eligibility requirements.
Don’t assume you can walk in and immediately participate in a class.
Appointments are required for certain activities, and studio availability can change.
Visit the Coastal Arts Center’s official page before planning a class.
Captain’s tip: This is a great activity to consider when someone in the family wants a break from sun and saltwater but still wants to experience something unique to Orange Beach.
Best for: Couples, art lovers, older children, and visitors interested in hands-on experiences.
3. Discover the Orange Beach History Museum
For visitors who enjoy local history, the Orange Beach History Museum is worth considering.
The museum is housed in a historic schoolhouse dating to 1910 and focuses on the area’s heritage.
Its exhibits include materials connected to local fishing families, early coastal life, and Native American history.
I think this is an especially worthwhile stop for people who want to understand that Orange Beach existed long before the condos, restaurants, and vacation attractions arrived.
Fishing, boating, and life on the water have been part of this area for generations.
Why It’s Worth Visiting
The museum provides a look at the community’s past without requiring a long excursion.
It’s a smaller, focused experience rather than an enormous museum complex.
According to the City of Orange Beach, admission is free.
The museum generally operates on weekdays, so check the schedule rather than assuming it’s open every weekend.
You can find current information on the Orange Beach History Museum website.
Best for: History enthusiasts, curious families, older children, and visitors interested in local fishing culture.
4. Walk or Bike the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail
If you enjoy being outdoors but want something different from the beach, the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail is one of my favorite recommendations to consider.
The trail system extends through Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, and Gulf State Park.
Instead of open sand and Gulf surf, you’ll experience coastal forests, wetlands, freshwater environments, and other natural habitats.
Visitors can walk, bike, watch birds, and enjoy the scenery.
What Wildlife Might You See?
Depending on the season and location, visitors may encounter turtles, coastal birds, butterflies, and other wildlife.
Alligators also inhabit some of the area’s freshwater environments.
Wildlife should always be observed from a safe distance.
Never attempt to feed, approach, or handle an alligator.
Is the Trail Good for Kids?
Yes, provided you choose a suitable route and distance.
A short walk may be perfect for a family with younger children.
Older kids and active adults may enjoy a longer bicycle ride.
The trail includes different access points, so review the map and plan where to begin before leaving your accommodations.
Bring drinking water, particularly during summer.
Check the official Backcountry Trail information for maps and trail details.
Best for: Active families, nature lovers, cyclists, birdwatchers, and visitors who enjoy exploring beyond the tourist areas.
5. Spend a Day at OWA and Tropic Falls in Foley
If your family is looking for a full day of entertainment away from the beach, OWA Parks & Resort in nearby Foley is a strong option.
OWA includes shopping, dining, entertainment, and Tropic Falls, which combines theme-park attractions with an indoor waterpark.
This can be especially appealing for families visiting for a week who want an activity completely different from a traditional beach day.
Tropic Falls
Tropic Falls offers indoor water attractions as well as rides and other entertainment.
The indoor waterpark provides a different environment from swimming in the Gulf.
However, operating schedules vary throughout the year, and outdoor attractions may close because of weather.
Check height requirements and age restrictions before promising your children a particular ride or slide.
Downtown OWA
The larger OWA complex also offers restaurants, shopping, and entertainment.
You don’t necessarily have to spend the entire day at the waterpark to enjoy the destination.
Important: An indoor attraction isn’t automatically open during severe weather. Storm-related closures can affect an entire property, including normally indoor facilities.
Review OWA’s official calendar before driving to Foley.
Best for: Families with children, teenagers, theme-park fans, and visitors who want a major attraction away from the beach.
6. Take a Private Dolphin Cruise
I know this article is about activities besides the beach, but that doesn’t mean you have to stay off the water.
One of the best ways to experience Orange Beach is to leave the shoreline behind and explore its bays and coastal waterways by boat.
A private dolphin cruise gives visitors an opportunity to observe wild bottlenose dolphins in their natural environment.
It also provides an entirely different perspective of the area.
You can enjoy views of islands, shorelines, marinas, and the local waterways while spending time together.
Why Dolphin Cruises Are Worth Considering
A dolphin cruise can work well for families with different ages because passengers remain aboard the boat.
At Back Bay Charters, our standard private dolphin cruises last two hours and accommodate up to six guests.
Your group has the boat to itself rather than sharing the trip with a large public crowd.
Dolphins inhabit the area year-round.
We report approximately 99% historical dolphin-sighting success, although no individual trip can be guaranteed.
Dolphins are wild animals, and responsible operators should observe them without chasing, feeding, or disturbing them.
When Should You Go?
During summer, I often recommend considering a morning departure because temperatures may be more comfortable.
But the actual forecast and wind conditions matter more than any fixed departure time.
If you’re trying to decide when to book, see our Best Time for a Dolphin Cruise in Orange Beach.
Best for: Families, couples, grandparents, first-time visitors, and people who enjoy wildlife.
Explore private dolphin cruises.
7. Visit the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
Located in nearby Gulf Shores, the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is a good choice for families who enjoy animals.
It offers an opportunity to see a variety of species while giving children a different kind of wildlife experience from dolphin watching.
For younger children, the zoo can be a memorable outing because they get to see animals they may have previously encountered only in books or on television.
It’s also useful for families looking to break up several days of beach activities.
Planning Your Zoo Visit
Treat the zoo primarily as an outdoor attraction.
Bring sun protection and drinking water, and plan breaks if you’re visiting with young children.
Special animal experiences may have separate schedules, rules, or fees.
Check current hours and attraction information before visiting.
The zoo is not an appropriate substitute for an indoor rain plan during lightning or severe storms.
Best for: Families with younger children, animal lovers, and visitors who prefer a relaxed sightseeing activity.
8. Visit Alligator Alley in Summerdale
Alligator Alley, located in Summerdale, is another wildlife attraction worth considering.
It gives visitors opportunities to observe alligators from designated viewing areas.
For families who have never seen alligators in a coastal wetland environment, it can be a very memorable experience.
The attraction is different from a traditional zoo, and children interested in reptiles may particularly enjoy it.
What Should Families Know?
Plan for an outdoor visit.
Keep children close, respect all barriers, and follow staff instructions.
Do not reach toward or attempt to touch wildlife except in specifically authorized, supervised activities.
Because Summerdale is inland from Orange Beach, I recommend treating this as part of an inland outing rather than driving back and forth between the attraction and the beach several times.
Best for: Wildlife enthusiasts, families with school-age children, and visitors interested in reptiles.
9. Explore Historic Fort Morgan
If you enjoy history and don’t mind a longer drive, Historic Fort Morgan is another worthwhile excursion.
Located at the western end of the Fort Morgan peninsula, the site is associated with the Battle of Mobile Bay and coastal defense history.
Visitors can explore historic fortifications and learn about the area’s military significance.
This is quite different from the busy beaches and entertainment districts around Orange Beach.
Is Fort Morgan Good for Families?
It can be, especially for children who enjoy history and exploring unusual structures.
However, the site involves outdoor walking, uneven surfaces in some areas, and exposure to the weather.
Wear suitable shoes, bring water, and supervise younger children carefully.
Check the site’s current access rules, operating schedule, and any restoration restrictions before visiting.
Captain’s tip: Don’t try to squeeze Fort Morgan into a short afternoon between other major attractions. The drive makes it better suited to its own sightseeing outing.
Best for: History lovers, families with older children, and visitors interested in the Gulf Coast’s past.
10. Go Fishing Along the Alabama Gulf Coast
Fishing is one of the activities that has helped define this part of Alabama for generations.
Orange Beach offers inshore, nearshore, and offshore fishing opportunities.
Depending on the season and conditions, anglers may pursue redfish, speckled trout, Spanish mackerel, king mackerel, snapper, and many other species.
Regulations and fishing seasons affect which fish can be retained.
Fishing with Kids
For younger children and beginners, a shorter inshore fishing trip is often a sensible choice.
It may involve less travel time and more protected water than an offshore excursion.
For older kids and serious anglers, offshore fishing may be the highlight of the vacation.
The right trip depends on interest, experience, budget, and weather.
Fishing success is never guaranteed, and a longer offshore trip isn’t necessarily better for every family.
Best for: Anglers, teenagers, families interested in fishing, and visitors wanting to experience local coastal traditions.
11. Enjoy Local Restaurants and Waterfront Dining
Sometimes the best activity away from the beach is simply enjoying a good meal.
Orange Beach and nearby Gulf Shores offer a variety of seafood restaurants, casual dining spots, and special-occasion restaurants.
A few options worth considering include:
GTs on the Bay: A waterfront restaurant that works well for a relaxed family meal.
Coastal Orange Beach: A dining option near the Gulf for visitors who enjoy coastal scenery.
Mikee’s Seafood: A casual seafood option in nearby Gulf Shores.
Villaggio Grille: A convenient restaurant when exploring The Wharf.
Jesse’s on the Bay: Worth considering for a special dinner.
Voyagers: Another option for visitors planning a more upscale dining experience.
Mile Marker 158: A local dining option worth including in your restaurant plans.
My Restaurant Planning Advice
During busy vacation weeks, restaurants can have long waits.
If you’re traveling with younger children, eating before the busiest dinner period can make the experience more enjoyable.
For couples planning a special evening, check reservations well before your trip.
Don’t assume seasonal hours or availability remain unchanged throughout the year.
Best for: Everyone—especially after a full day exploring the Gulf Coast.
12. Enjoy an Evening at Flora-Bama
For adults who want to experience some Gulf Coast nightlife, Flora-Bama is one of the area’s best-known landmarks.
Located near the Alabama–Florida state line, it’s famous for live music, coastal culture, and its long history as a gathering place.
It’s not the same type of attraction as The Wharf or a family waterpark.
Visitors should check the venue’s current performance schedule, age restrictions, and admission policies before going.
Depending on the event and time of day, the atmosphere can vary significantly.
For adults who enjoy live music and a casual coastal setting, it can be an interesting addition to a vacation.
Best for: Adults, music lovers, and visitors interested in Gulf Coast nightlife.
13. Try Mini Golf, a Movie, or Indoor Entertainment
Not every vacation activity needs to be a major excursion.
Miniature golf, movies, arcades, and other entertainment venues can be excellent alternatives when your family wants a break from the beach.
For many children, an afternoon at an arcade or a round of mini golf is just as exciting as a major attraction.
These activities also work well between larger outings.
Good Options for Rainy Weather
Movies, some arcades, and other genuinely indoor attractions may be useful when ordinary rain makes the beach less appealing.
Mini golf is generally outdoors, so check the weather and the particular venue.
The Wharf includes entertainment options such as a movie theater, although operating schedules vary.
If severe weather threatens, follow local safety instructions rather than attempting to travel to another venue.
Best for: Families, couples, teenagers, and visitors looking for low-effort entertainment.
What to Do in Orange Beach When It Rains
This is one of the most important parts of planning a Gulf Coast vacation.
During summer, afternoon thunderstorms can disrupt outdoor activities.
At other times of year, cold fronts or tropical weather can make boating and beach plans unsuitable.
The solution is to build flexibility into your schedule.
Better Options for Ordinary Rainy Days
When conditions are safe for travel and attractions are operating, consider an indoor movie, an available indoor attraction at Tropic Falls, gallery browsing at the Coastal Arts Center, the Orange Beach History Museum, or a relaxed restaurant visit.
Check the schedule first.
The History Museum and Coastal Arts Center aren’t necessarily open on weekends or holidays.
And remember that The Wharf is largely outdoors, while the zoo, Alligator Alley, and Fort Morgan aren’t suitable as fully indoor rain alternatives.
When the Weather Is Severe
A hurricane, tropical storm, tornado warning, flood, or lightning emergency is not simply an inconvenient rainy vacation day.
If dangerous weather threatens, follow official warnings, local emergency instructions, and evacuation orders when issued.
Attractions may close even if their facilities are indoors.
Don’t drive around seeking entertainment when conditions are unsafe.
The best rainy-day backup plan is one you can use safely—not one that forces you to travel during severe weather.
Best Things to Do Besides the Beach by Season
Orange Beach offers activities throughout the year, but the best choices change with the seasons.
Spring: March Through May
Spring can be excellent for nature trails, dolphin cruises, fishing, historic sites, and outdoor sightseeing.
Temperatures begin warming, although windy weather and fronts can still affect plans.
April and May are particularly appealing if you’d rather avoid the strongest midsummer heat.
Explore our April in Orange Beach guide for seasonal details.
Summer: June Through August
Summer brings the busiest family vacation season.
Waterparks, boating, indoor entertainment, restaurants, and attractions are popular alternatives when families want a break from the beach.
Afternoon thunderstorms and heat should be considered when planning outdoor activities.
For more details, read our July in Orange Beach Almanac.
Fall: September Through November
Fall can be one of the most enjoyable times to explore the area away from the beach.
Cooler temperatures often make walking, biking, historic sites, and sightseeing more comfortable.
September may still feel like summer, while October generally brings a different atmosphere.
Tropical weather and cold fronts remain important considerations.
Our October in Orange Beach guide explains what visitors can expect.
Winter: December Through February
Winter is a good season for exploring the quieter side of Orange Beach.
Museums, galleries, restaurants, suitable nature-trail outings, and sightseeing can all be appealing.
Dolphin cruises remain an option on suitable weather days.
Some attractions operate reduced seasonal schedules, so checking in advance is particularly important.
See our January in Orange Beach guide for winter travel information.
The Perfect One-Day Orange Beach Itinerary Without Spending the Day on the Beach
If you’ve already enjoyed the sand and want something different, here’s the kind of day I’d recommend.
Morning: Explore Local History or Take a Nature Walk
Start with the Orange Beach History Museum or a manageable walk along part of the Backcountry Trail.
Choose based on the weather, your family’s interests, and the attraction’s hours.
If you’d rather make a private dolphin cruise your main experience, you can choose that instead.
Midday: Lunch at a Local Restaurant
Enjoy lunch at GTs on the Bay or another convenient restaurant.
Give everyone some time to relax before the afternoon.
Afternoon: The Wharf or Coastal Arts Center
Spend the afternoon exploring The Wharf, or visit the Coastal Arts Center if it’s open.
If you’re planning a glass or clay activity, check age restrictions and book your appointment ahead of time.
Evening: Dinner and a Relaxed Finish
Enjoy dinner and take in the evening scenery.
If a sunset dolphin cruise is your family’s main priority, make that the one major boating experience of the day and keep your morning on land.
My recommendation: Don’t try to fit a morning charter, a full-day attraction, and another sunset charter into one schedule.
A vacation should leave room to relax.
For more complete itineraries, read our How to Plan the Perfect Family Vacation in Orange Beach guide.
How to Avoid Spending Your Entire Vacation Driving
One planning mistake visitors sometimes make is treating every attraction in the region as if it’s just around the corner.
Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, Foley, Summerdale, Fort Morgan, and Dauphin Island are all part of the broader coastal area, but they’re not the same location.
Try to organize activities by area.
A visit to OWA can be combined with other Foley attractions.
The Wharf and Coastal Arts Center are both in Orange Beach.
The Backcountry Trail provides multiple access points between Orange Beach and Gulf Shores.
Fort Morgan is better treated as a separate sightseeing outing.
You don’t need to experience every destination during one vacation.
Choose a few that fit your interests and leave room for something unexpected.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best things to do in Orange Beach besides the beach?
Popular options include The Wharf, dolphin cruises, the Coastal Arts Center, Orange Beach History Museum, Backcountry Trail, Gulf State Park, OWA and Tropic Falls, fishing, wildlife attractions, restaurants, and live entertainment.
Is there anything to do indoors in Orange Beach?
Yes. Options may include the History Museum, parts of the Coastal Arts Center, movies, and other indoor entertainment. Nearby Foley has the indoor waterpark at Tropic Falls when it’s operating. Always confirm current hours and any weather-related closures.
What can couples do besides the beach?
Couples may enjoy a sunset cruise, a visit to the Coastal Arts Center, a special dinner, local entertainment, nature trails, or exploring The Wharf.
What can families do besides swimming?
Dolphin cruises, wildlife attractions, The Wharf, OWA, mini golf, nature trails, and museums provide alternatives to swimming.
Are there free things to do in Orange Beach?
Some public walking areas and nature activities may be free or low cost, although parking or facility fees can apply. The Orange Beach History Museum currently lists free admission.
Is The Wharf good for children?
Yes. The Ferris wheel, dining, shopping, and seasonal entertainment make it a flexible family attraction. Individual activities may have separate prices and schedules.
Can you watch the Blue Angels from Orange Beach?
The Blue Angels operate according to published flight schedules, and viewing opportunities depend on the event. Check official dates and locations rather than assuming aircraft will be visible every day.
Is Orange Beach worth visiting in winter?
Yes, especially for visitors who enjoy restaurants, sightseeing, nature trails, and a quieter vacation atmosphere. Weather conditions may limit swimming and some boating activities.
Is Gulf State Park worth visiting if we don’t want the beach?
Yes. Its extensive trail system and natural habitats provide walking, cycling, and wildlife-viewing opportunities away from the Gulf shoreline.
Can I visit the Coastal Arts Center without taking a class?
The center has a public art gallery, but specific studios, demonstrations, and hands-on activities have their own requirements and schedules. Check before visiting.
How many days do you need in Orange Beach?
Three days is enough for a memorable short visit, but five to seven days gives families more flexibility to explore attractions, enjoy the beach, and adjust plans around the weather.
Final Thoughts: Orange Beach Has More to Offer Than the Sand
The beaches may be the main reason people discover Orange Beach, but they’re certainly not the only reason to visit.
From historic sites and nature trails to art galleries, dolphin cruises, fishing, family attractions, and waterfront restaurants, there’s plenty to experience beyond the shoreline.
One of the things I enjoy about the Alabama Gulf Coast is how many different kinds of vacations people can have here.
A family might spend the week visiting attractions and exploring the waterways.
A couple might prefer good restaurants, nature walks, and quiet evenings.
And someone visiting during the cooler months may discover that they enjoy Orange Beach just as much without ever getting into the Gulf.
My recommendation is to choose activities that genuinely interest you, group them by location, and leave yourself enough time to enjoy the experience.
For more inspiration, explore our 25 Best Things to Do in Orange Beach.
And if you’d like to experience the waterways from a different perspective, our private boat charters in Orange Beach offer personalized trips for groups of up to six guests.
We’d love to welcome you aboard.
Captain Matt Swiggum
Back Bay Charters