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Fort Morgan, Alabama, has something for everyone when it comes to fun in the great outdoors. Known for its beaches, beautiful bathtub-warm water, and historic destinations, Fort Morgan is a terrific place to plan your next family vacation.
The combination of natural wonders and history come together in Fort Morgan, where there’s no shortage of fun things to do. Built-in the early 1800s, the historical fort stood on guard through the Civil War, Spanish-American War, WWI, and WWII. Now it offers guided tours and provides a nature reserve for birds and wildlife.
There are several nature reserves in the area, so Fort Morgan and the Gulf Coast will not disappoint if birdwatching or photography is a hobby.
From watching alligators swimming in Mobile Bay to catching red snappers on a charter in the Gulf of Mexico, you’re sure to find something to please everyone on the list with this vacation.
1. Have a Few Beach Days
First off, you can’t plan a vacation to the Alabama Gulf Coast without setting aside some beach days. Glistening, sugar-white sand welcomes visitors year-round to this incredible hidden paradise.
The white sand beaches found along the gulf coast are magical. Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Pensacola are just a short drive from Fort Morgan and offer a more resort town feel. Fort Morgan is perfect for a simpler, laid-back stay. A beachfront condo getaway sounds pretty perfect, right?
Your beach vacation rental can put you steps from the sand and surf, so what are you waiting for?
2. Visit Fort Morgan and Fort Gaines Historic Sites
Fort Morgan Historic Site is home to the fort, which stands on the grounds of the original Fort Bowyer. Tours are available and will shed light on the history of this fort.
Used as a defender of Mobile Bay during the Civil War, and finally taken by the North during the Battle of Mobile Bay, Fort Morgan and its sister fort on Dauphin Island, Fort Gaines, are now historical sites with nature reserves and beaches.
110 HWY 180, Gulf Shores, Al 36542
Take the Mobile Bay Ferry for a beautiful ferry ride from Fort Morgan to Dauphin Island to get you to Fort Gaines.
3. Take Your Family to Dauphin Island Sea Lab
While visiting Fort Gaines, be sure to make a day trip of it and see the family-friendly Dauphin Island Sea Lab. The Sea Lab is Alabama’s aquarium and used to be named the Estuarium. They offer a full aquarium experience focusing on local species of fish and marine life.
Excursions are available, so check out their site and book ahead for a chance to go out and experience what it’s like to be a marine biologist for a day. Explore the salt marshes or head out into the dunes with a team of biologists.
102 Bienville Blvd, Dauphin Island, AL 36528
4. Get Wild at Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge
With over 7000 acres, several hiking trails, and an interpretive center to explore, the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge is an excellent way to connect with nature. It’s the last entirely untouched natural habitat along the Alabama coast.
Head here if you want the chance to see alligators. There are several native plant species here that you won’t find anywhere else in the world, so don’t miss this stop.
Spend some time exploring the local waterways in the refuge by renting a kayak and setting out for some adventures. Don’t go out without a map!
12295 State Hwy 180 Gulf Shores, Al 36542
5. Hit the Green at Kiva Dunes Golf Course
There’s always time to fit in 18 holes, right? Especially when the course has the distinction of being ranked the top public course in Alabama.
There is a lot to explore at the Kiva Dunes Golf Course, so take your time and see the sights.
While there, step into the Kiva Grill and have a bite to eat or have a drink. You’ll be glad you did.
815 Plantation Dr, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
6. Take a Hike at Gulf State Park
The Gulf State Park has something for everyone. Trails for hiking, beaches for relaxing, and a fishing pier cover the bases. The park has the most beautiful Gulf Shores beaches and incredible nature trails. The lodge has some of the best viewings of the sunset in the area, so head over and have a drink at the bar. You’ll be happy that you did.
20115 State Park Rd, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
7. Eat Well at Tacky Jacks 2
No Fort Morgan vacation is complete without a visit to Tacky Jacks. There are fun things for the entire family at Tacky Jacks, and the food’s excellent, too.
If you’ve been catching fish in the Gulf, bring them along, and the chef will cook them to perfection.
The views of Mobile Bay gently lapping against the docks is a relaxing addition to the exciting atmosphere of the restaurant. Live music, karaoke, and drinks in the tavern are reasons Tacky Jacks is a favorite of locals and Fort Morgan vacation first-timers alike.
It’s located just off Fort Morgan Road, and you’ll spot it from the overflowing parking lot. It’s a popular hangout spot.
1577 AL-180, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
A Fort Morgan vacation is relaxation at its finest. Lounge by the Gulf and read a book or go on an adventure. Either way, what are you waiting for?
