Things to do in Mobile

Mobile might be quite low-key compared to other cities in the United States, yet it has unique charms of its own. Travelling in Mobile is a fun and memorable experience. You can walk around the waterfront to observe various cruising ships and admire art masterpieces by local artists along the way. Its here where seafood and Mardi Gras are best known, while many parks and gardens fill the city with colourful plants and fresh air.

Dauphin Island Park and Beach Board

This famous park and beach is an all-in-one destination for all kinds of fun-filled activities. The Great Dauphin Island Camp Ground offers 150 campsites, located within walking distance of the historic Fort Gaines. The Audubon Bird Sanctuary, an ideal spot for bird-watching in the city, boasts a variety of bird species, gulf beaches and a freshwater lake. Those into fishing can also practice their skills at the fishing pier, while small parks provide a relaxing atmosphere that is perfect for a family picnic.

Fort Conde Museum

Located downtown, adjacent to the citys welcome centre, Fort Conde Museum is a partial replica of the original 18th century French fort. It features many interesting exhibitions; you can explore an African slave ship and be fascinated by stories of brave Civil War soldiers. Those with children should take them to the Discovery Room, which exhibits several interactive displays on local history.

Historic Blakeley State Park

One of the most interesting spots in Mobile, this park is the site of an Appalachee Indian village, an 1820s riverfront town and the site of the last major land battle of the Civil War as well as being a natural site known for its exciting tours of the wilderness. If you want to explore the area, a boat trip on the Delta Explorer is organised through the Mobile-Tensaw, one of Alabamas 10 natural wonders. If you are lucky, you might be able to spot alligators, black bears, the rare red-bellied turtle, osprey bald eagles and water snakes.

Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center and IMAX Theater

An all-time favourite destination for children in Mobile, the Exploreum is an excellent science centre where children can experience a number of hands-on exhibits. There are big screen films on show at the Domed IMAX Theater, which is the only IMAX 3D theatre on the Gulf Coast. The Exploreum is conveniently located in Historic Downtown Mobile.

Kirk House and Gardens

A charming place to relax amid beautiful nature and witness an old, remarkable three-storey Craftsman-style home dating back to 1914, Kirk House and Gardens offers exquisite gardens filled with native and heirloom plants and the studio of ceramic artist Mary Kirk Kelly. Those looking for a one-of-a-kind outdoor location for special occasions will find this place simply irresistible.

Mobile Botanical Gardens

Those into gardens and plants will love Mobile Botanical Gardens, with its several nature trails, herb gardens, Japanese maple garden and texture garden, complete with koi pond and bridge. The place is filled with many great collections of flowers and is an ideal place to walk around and unwind after a long day in the city.

Mobile Museum of Art

The museum boasts state-of-the-art architecture and is already an impressive sight from the outside. It is the largest art museum along the Gulf Coast from New Orleans to Tampa. Fascinating collections of American, European, Asian and African art are displayed in the museum, while artistic visitors can try their hand at Art Adventure in the education wing.

Mobile Zoo

Here, you will see all kinds of wildlife from all over the world. The main buildings feature exhibitions, reptiles and Bubba the Rhesus Macaque. The tour goes on to another part of the zoo, where you can observe non-flying birds, deer and antelope. Walk through a military fort to find cattle, horses and oxen. To finish the tour, visitors are taken to the world where tigers and camels rule. It is a western theme educational adventure for everyone in the family.