A Roaring Start at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

Our family adventure began at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, a place that promised to be a delightful introduction to the Gulf Shores Multi-Attraction Pass. As we entered, the kids’ eyes widened with excitement at the sight of the giraffes stretching their long necks towards the sky. The zoo, though smaller than some we’ve visited, was packed with charm and a variety of animals that kept us entertained for hours. We took a leisurely stroll through the walkthrough aviary, where colorful birds flitted around us, and the sustainable garden, which was a lovely spot for a quick family photo.

The highlight for the kids was undoubtedly the hands-on adventures. We opted for the South American Adventure, where we got up close with sloths and macaws. The kids were thrilled to feed the giraffes, and I must admit, I was just as excited! The zoo’s compact size made it easy to navigate, especially with little ones in tow, and we appreciated the friendly staff who were always ready to share fun facts about the animals.

All Aboard at the Foley Railroad Museum

Next on our itinerary was the Foley Railroad Museum & Model Train Exhibit. This charming museum, free to the public, was a hit with our train-loving family. The depot, built in 1909, was a fascinating glimpse into the past, and the model train exhibit was nothing short of mesmerizing. With over 84 freight cars and a quarter mile of track, the kids were captivated by the intricate details and the trains chugging along the tracks.

We spent a good amount of time exploring the museum, learning about the history of Foley and the role the railroad played in its development. The kids loved the interactive elements, and it was a great educational stop that didn’t feel like a typical museum visit. It was a perfect blend of history and fun, and we left with a newfound appreciation for the area’s rich heritage.

Anchors Aweigh at USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park

Our final stop was the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park, a must-see for any history buff. The battleship itself was awe-inspiring, and we spent hours exploring its decks and learning about its storied past. The kids were particularly fascinated by the massive guns and the stories of the sailors who once called the ship home.

However, a word of caution for those considering a visit to the submarine USS Drum: it’s a tight squeeze! My husband, who is on the taller side, found it a bit challenging to navigate the narrow passages. But for the rest of us, it was an exciting adventure, and the kids loved pretending to be submariners on a mission.

The park also offered a chance to see vintage military vehicles and historic aircraft, which added to the day’s excitement. We wrapped up our visit with a picnic on the grounds, enjoying the beautiful weather and reflecting on the incredible experiences we’d had. The Gulf Shores Multi-Attraction Pass truly delivered a day of fun, learning, and family bonding that we won’t soon forget.