Top Places Along the Coastal Connection Scenic Byway

Alabama’s Coastal Connection Scenic Byway runs along the state's southern end and features many wildlife preserves, historic sites, and endearing small towns. Today, we are sharing the top coastal towns you should consider visiting if you happen to be driving along this lovely scenic byway. 

Dauphin Island

Dauphin Island has several attractions, including the Dauphin Island Audubon Bird Sanctuary. Bring your binoculars and get ready to do some birdwatching while you're here. This 14-mile gulf coast island is one of the top places people visit during the annual springtime migration. Take a stroll on the beach or enjoy a fishing charter while you’re at it; there are several options to choose from when it comes to fishing near Dauphin Island. This is a great place to slow down and soak in the beauty of the earth.

Mobile

In Mobile, one of the top attractions is the historic USS Alabama warship that fought during WWII. Since 1965, this historic military aircraft, tanks, and a submarine have been open for public tours at the Battleship Memorial Park. Those who enjoy the arts should stop by the Mobile Museum of Art, which houses over 10,000 different art pieces. They have a permanent collection and cycle through temporary collections to allow guests to see something new when they visit. If you want to learn the history of Mardi Gras, look no further than the Mobile Carnival Museum featuring elaborate costumes and masks that have been worn to celebrate Mardi Gras. This city has several historic homes and an amazing downtown historic center where you can see various architectural styles dating back as early as the 1850s. Don't forget to look at Mobile Bay before heading east to the next destination.

Spanish Fort

Hands down, one of the best places to visit in Spanish Fort is Historic Blakely State Park. It is one of the biggest and most diverse areas found on the gulf coast and is open year-round from 8 am to dusk. Within Blakely State Park, you can see where the largest Civil War battle occurred in Alabama and Native American villages from thousands of years ago. Consider booking a cabin, campsite, or RV site to extend your stay at the park and enjoy even more outdoor activities such as a river cruise tour, hiking, boating, and biking. 

Fairhope

This quaint town offers southern hospitality and delicious cuisine to everyone who sets foot here. There are golf clubs, museums, and plenty of parks to visit too. A top-rated place on the southern end of town is called Oak Hollow Farm. This is where guests can take a leisurely horseback ride through the forest. The horses are calm enough for both children and adults to have a wonderful time. Be sure to take a sunset stroll along the Fairhope Pier to unwind at the end of the day.  

Foley

Stop by Foley, which is located 10 miles north of the gulf coast. Downtown Foley is a place where you will find antique shops, music halls, museums, and the OWA. OWA has an amusement park and hosts concerts and special events throughout the year. If you have time to spare, stick around OWA for a bite to eat or do some window shopping for a while. Nearby, you can also visit Graham Creek Nature Preserve for a moment of peace and tranquility. This preserve covers 500 acres of land, so there are plenty of things to capture if you want to bring a camera with you. You won’t regret stopping by Foley, Alabama, during this scenic road trip.

Gulf Shores

Of all the places to see in Gulf Shores, a must-see is the Gulf State Park. This state park features miles of beachfront, campsites, and hiking trails. There is something for everyone who visits, so you certainly won’t find boredom here. Enjoy the warm gulf coast waters and picturesque white sandy beaches if you need a place to relax for a while. Family-friendly attractions within the town include the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo and the Waterville USA water park. No matter where you go, Gulf Shores offers fun and adventure for all ages.

From all of us at Go Wandering, we hope you have a fun time cruising through the heart of dixie. We encourage you to consider adding Alabama’s Coastal Connection Scenic Byway to your bucket list of U.S. road trip adventures. If you love the southern United States, check out this itinerary to give you inspiration for your next road trip.