15 Best Things To Do in Mobile, Alabama

Nestled along the Gulf Coast, Mobile, Alabama, boasts a rich history and diverse attractions for residents and visitors alike. As you prepare to explore this charming Southern city, let’s delve into some of the must-see spots and activities awaiting you.

The great outdoors beckons in Mobile, with many parks and scenic spots perfect for leisurely strolls, picnics, or just soaking up the sunshine. For history buffs, a visit to the historic sites in the city is essential. With grandiose mansions, thriving museums, and storied streets dating back centuries, Mobile invites you to step back in time and immerse yourself in its captivating past.

To further enhance your Mobile experience, be sure to attend the lively array of local events, including the oldest Mardi Gras celebration in the United States. The city also plays host to numerous music festivals, cultural and theme tours, and a bustling downtown food scene.

Things to Do in Mobile, Alabama

Historical Attractions

Mardi Gras and Mobile Carnival Museum

Mobile, Alabama is known for its rich history and vibrant culture, especially when it comes to Mardi Gras. The city’s celebrations predate New Orleans‘, dating back to the early 18th century. To delve into the traditions and history of Mardi Gras in Mobile, a visit to the Mobile Carnival Museum is a must. This museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the festive spirit of the season. It features exhibits on elaborate floats, intricate costumes, and other artifacts related to the annual event. A guided tour offers insights into the long-lasting Mardi Gras customs unique to Mobile.

History Museum of Mobile

The History Museum of Mobile is another essential destination for history buffs visiting Alabama’s oldest city. Located in the heart of downtown Mobile, this museum showcases the city’s rich past through various exhibits and artifacts spanning over 300 years of history. From Native American civilizations to European colonization and World War II, the museum covers a wide range of topics and events that have shaped Mobile’s heritage. Interactive exhibits and educational programs provide an engaging experience for visitors of all ages.

Fort Conde

Fort Conde is an important historical site in Mobile, dating back to the early 1700s. Originally built by the French to defend the city, it has changed hands multiple times between various European powers and the United States. Today, a reconstructed version of the fort allows visitors to explore this key location in Mobile’s history. Complete with period furnishings, cannons, and exhibitions on military life, Fort Conde offers a glimpse into the tumultuous past of the city and its role in Alabama’s development. With costumed staff and guided tours, you can step back in time and immerse yourself in the fort’s storied past.

Museums and Art

USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park

USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in military history. This park features the USS Alabama, a World War II battleship, and the USS Drum, a WWII submarine, both available for self-guided tours. Additionally, the park includes Medal of Honor Aircraft Pavilion, which displays various military aircraft and vehicles. The park not only provides insight into life on a battleship and submarine, but it also pays tribute to the brave individuals who served during these historical events.

Mobile Museum of Art

Mobile’s art scene is showcased at the Mobile Museum of Art, which offers visitors a chance to view and appreciate a diverse collection of art. The museum features various types of artworks, including sculptures, ceramics, and painting. The permanent collection, combined with rotating exhibitions, ensures that there is always something new to discover and explore. With its blend of regional and international pieces, the Mobile Museum of Art provides a captivating glimpse into the world of fine art.

Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center

The Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center is the perfect destination for curious minds of all ages. This interactive museum offers hands-on exhibits, educational programs, and special events to engage and inspire visitors. From unique installations and engaging science demonstrations to a massive IMAX Dome theater, the Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center promises an entertaining and educational day for everyone.

Bellingrath Museum Home

Located in Mobile Bay, the Bellingrath Museum Home offers a blend of history and elegance that makes it a must-visit attraction. This beautiful, historic residence lets visitors step back in time to experience the life of the Bellingrath family. The 10,500 sq. ft. home is adorned with stunning antiques and numerous pieces of artwork that provide insight into the region’s past. In addition to the captivating interior, the Bellingrath Museum Home is surrounded by exquisitely maintained gardens and walking paths, offering a serene escape from the bustling city.

Outdoor Activities

When visiting Mobile, Alabama, you’ll find a variety of outdoor activities to suit all interests along the Gulf Coast. This city offers excellent opportunities for fishing, boating, and alligator watching, among other outdoor pursuits.

Fishing and Boating

Frequenters of the Mobile Bay area love to indulge in fishing and boating activities. The bay is teeming with various fish species, making it an exciting destination for anglers looking to cast their lines. For boating enthusiasts, options range from kayaks and canoes to larger vessels for exploring the multiple waterways in the area. Be sure to pack your fishing gear, hop on a relaxing boat tour, or take part in one of the numerous guided tours available.

Meaher State Park

Meaher State Park is an excellent location for those seeking outdoor adventures and relaxation. Covering 1,327 acres, the park offers a range of activities, such as fishing, picnicking, and bird watching. With numerous wooden boardwalks stretching over the marshland, the park provides serene views and the opportunity to connect with nature. Don’t forget to bring your binoculars to witness the park’s diverse array of birds and wildlife.

Gator Boardwalk

One of the unique highlights of the region is the Gator Boardwalk. This fascinating elevated walkway provides a thrilling alligator-watching experience for visitors to Mobile. Observe these fascinating reptiles up-close as they bask in the sun or swim in their natural habitat. For those looking to learn more about these incredible creatures, guided tours are available to educate visitors about the alligator’s ecosystem and habits.

Culture and Entertainment

Mobile Opera

The Mobile Opera is a cultural staple of the city, offering high-quality classical music performances to the community. With a rich history dating back decades, the Mobile Opera puts on a variety of shows throughout the year, featuring both local and international talents. The performances encompass various styles, languages, and periods, ensuring that audiences can enjoy a diverse range of operatic experiences.

Saenger Theatre

The Saenger Theatre, also known as “Mobile’s Grand Dame,” has been an iconic venue for entertainment and cultural events since its establishment in 1927. This historic building is the perfect place to catch a live music performance, a classic movie screening, or even a comedy show. The Saenger Theatre also hosts a variety of local and national touring acts, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the vibrant entertainment offerings of Mobile.

Live Theater

Mobile boasts a thriving live theater scene that caters to fans of diverse genres, including drama, comedy, musicals, and innovative new works. The Joe Jefferson Playhouse and the Chickasaw Civic Theatre are two local theaters that regularly stage a variety of productions, providing ample opportunities for residents and visitors to enjoy fine art and live performances. Community involvement is a significant aspect of Mobile’s theater culture, with many opportunities for aspiring actors, directors, and stage crew to participate in local productions.

In summary, Mobile, Alabama is a city rich in culture and entertainment, with a variety of venues and events that celebrate its diverse artistic offerings. With options like the Mobile Opera, Saenger Theatre, and local live theaters, there’s no shortage of ways for residents and visitors to engage in sightseeing, enjoy fine art, and immerse themselves in the vibrant cultural scene that Mobile has to offer.

Events and Festivals

Mobile, Alabama is known for its lively and diverse events and festivals that cater to a wide range of interests. As a city that loves to celebrate, you can expect plenty of opportunities to enjoy and immerse yourself in its vibrant atmosphere.

Mardi Gras is one of the most famous events in Mobile, as it is the birthplace of this colorful celebration in the United States. With a rich history dating back to the early 1700s, Mardi Gras has become an integral part of the city’s culture. Parades, dazzling floats, and costumed revelers fill the streets during this multi-week extravaganza.

Another notable event in Mobile is the annual Joe Cain Day. Held during the Mardi Gras season, this unique celebration pays homage to Joe Cain, the man who revived the city’s Mardi Gras after the Civil War. Locals honor his memory with a procession of decorated vehicles, playful costumes, and lively music.

The Moon Pie Drop has become a Mobile New Year’s Eve tradition, attracting locals and tourists alike. As the clock strikes midnight, a giant illuminated Moon Pie is dropped, followed by a spectacular fireworks display and live entertainment.

Sports enthusiasts can look forward to the Reese’s Senior Bowl, an annual event showcasing the talents of college football stars as they compete in their final collegiate game. This highly anticipated event is a must-see for football fans and serves as an excellent showcase of the city’s love for sports.

Mobile’s event calendar is filled with a variety of other happenings, such as art shows, street parties, concerts, and symphonies. Whether you’re into history, culture, music, or sports, the city offers a diverse array of events to suit every taste and interest. Be sure to plan your visit to coincide with these unforgettable experiences and become a part of Mobile’s rich and lively atmosphere.

Dining and Shopping

Mobile, Alabama, offers a diverse dining scene with a range of flavors that cater to different tastes. Seafood is a highlight, especially the local oysters which are a must-try for anyone visiting the area. Apart from oysters, diners can also enjoy various types of fish and shellfish delicacies. As a city with a rich culinary history, Mobile’s restaurants also offer Southern cuisine with a particular focus on pecans. They can be found in various dishes, from savory entrees to sweet desserts.

Downtown Mobile is teeming with a variety of restaurants, from casual eateries to fine dining establishments. Some popular dining options include the scenic Dauphin’s, which offers an upscale dining experience with beautiful views of the city, and the classic Southern fare at Spot of Tea. For a taste of the local oyster scene, consider a visit to the Blind Mule or Wintzell’s Oyster House, both known for their fresh seafood offerings.

In terms of shopping, Mobile has something for everyone. The city is home to numerous specialty shops and boutiques where shoppers can find unique items, such as handmade arts and crafts, clothing, and souvenirs, all within the heart of downtown. Notable shopping destinations include:

• The Shoppes at Bel Air: A shopping mall with a variety of fashion, home goods, and dining options.
• Antique Shops: For those seeking vintage items, the 18,000 square feet of retail space housing antiques and collectibles is worth exploring.
• Cloverleaf Plaza: Located in Tillmans Corner, the plaza boasts over 13 stores catering to various needs, from fashion to home essentials.

From fine dining experiences to diverse shopping opportunities, Mobile, Alabama, truly has something to offer everyone. Whether indulging in mouth-watering oysters, savoring pecan-flavored dishes, or seeking out a unique shopping find, visitors are bound to create lasting memories in this vibrant Southern city.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top attractions in downtown Mobile at night?

Downtown Mobile offers a variety of nighttime attractions. You can explore the lively food and drink scene by joining a Downtown Mobile Food Tour. The nightlife in Mobile also includes bars, clubs, and live music venues, where you can enjoy live performances or simply relax with a drink in hand.

Which events should I attend in Mobile Alabama?

Mobile is known for hosting the oldest Mardi Gras celebration in the U.S., so attending this annual event is a must. Other notable events include the Mobile International Festival, which celebrates the cultural diversity of the city and the surrounding region, and the Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival, showcasing beautiful hot air balloons and offering family-friendly fun.

What are some must-visit beaches near Mobile?

While Mobile Bay does not have typical sandy beaches, there are nearby beaches on the Gulf Coast within driving distance. Dauphin Island and Gulf Shores are popular beach destinations just an hour’s drive from Mobile, offering pristine beaches, watersports, and other recreational activities.

What is the main highlight of the Mobile Carnival Museum?

The Mobile Carnival Museum showcases the history and extravagance of the Mobile Mardi Gras celebration. The museum’s main highlight is the collection of royal attire, intricate costumes, and historic parade floats that have been a part of Mobile’s Mardi Gras festivities over the years.

What are the top things to do in Fairhope, AL?

Fairhope, located just across the bay from Mobile, is a charming small town with a vibrant arts community. Top things to do in Fairhope include visiting the Fairhope Municipal Pier, exploring the local art galleries, and taking a stroll through the beautiful downtown area filled with boutique shops and restaurants.

What are some highly recommended restaurants in Mobile?

Mobile has a diverse culinary scene, offering everything from Southern comfort food to international cuisine. Some highly recommended restaurants in Mobile include NoJa, which offers Mediterranean-Asian fusion dishes, and The Noble South, known for its farm-to-table Southern cuisine. For seafood lovers, check out Wintzell’s Oyster House, a local favorite for fresh Gulf seafood.