Sightseeing in Mobile, Alabama

Nestled along Alabama's Gulf Coast, Mobile is a great place to plan a day trip. It's a lively city that's bursting with history. From colonial forts to botanical gardens and battleships, there's not much that you can't find in Mobile.

Seeing the sights in the Azalea City is easy when you stay at Sun Outdoors Orange Beach, located just 50 miles southeast in Orange Beach. During your day trip, make sure you check out the following 10 activities in Alabama's Gulf Coast city.

10 Activities for a Day Trip to Mobile, AL

1. GulfQuest National Maritime Museum of the Gulf of Mexico

Nestled next to the Mobile River, the GulfQuest National Maritime Museum of the Gulf of Mexico is a life-sized replica of a container ship. Numerous exhibits and simulators detail the heritage of Mobile's maritime history. While fascinating for adults, GulfQuest is also great fun for kids!

2. U.S.S. Alabama

Created for World War II, the U.S.S. Alabama was decommissioned in 1947 and preserved as a museum. Now, it's permanently docked in Mobile Bay, and has become one of the biggest attractions in Mobile. The public is welcome and can tour the Alabama, getting a rare look at what life is like aboard a battleship.

3. Mobile Museum of Art

Nestled in a wooded park, the Mobile Museum of Art has a fine collection of American and international artwork. You'll find sculptures, painting, drawings, and much more. Plus, the art extends outdoors along the Sculpture Trail.

4. Mobile Botanical Gardens

Along the same street as the art museum is the Mobile Botanical Gardens. Native plants make up the bulk of the preserve and there's also a beautiful Longleaf Pine forest onsite. We recommend strolling the trails for a relaxing afternoon activity.

5. Dauphin Street

Looking for a lively strip of restaurants? We recommend grabbing dinner on Dauphin Street during your day trip to Mobile. As the main drag in the downtown area, Dauphin Street is known for a New Orleans feel with restaurants, bars, and shops. No stop in Mobile is complete without walking Dauphin Street!

6. History Museum of Mobile

Looking over Mardi Gras Park is the History Museum of Mobile. This building was once City Hall but has been converted to a museum detailing the history of Mobile and the Gulf Coast. Major historical objects, such as Egyptian mummies, also come through for special exhibitions.

In addition to the history museum, this site is also home to Colonial Fort Condé. While original remnants are in Mardi Gras Park, a replica was constructed in 1976 to celebrate the Bicentennial. Admission to the history museum includes admission to the fort, so you can tour both during your visit.

7. Mobile Carnival Museum

One of the most beloved attractions in town is the Mobile Carnival Museum. Mobile is the birthplace of Mardi Gras and the rich history is preserved in this historic mansion. No day trip to Mobile is complete without honoring Mardi Gras, so be sure to visit the Carnival Museum!

8. Conde-Charlotte Museum

We know, we know, there are a lot of museums. But Mobile is rich in history! The Conde-Charlotte Museum is a stunning mansion that's served stints as both a courthouse and jail. Tours are available and it's also right by the history museum, so you can visit both in the same day.

9. Bragg-Mitchell Mansion

Continuing the trend of historic homes, Bragg-Mitchell Mansion is an antebellum home. This picturesque 1855 mansion features period furniture and artwork, with guided tours offered by knowledgeable volunteers. Do call ahead, though, as the mansion is often rented for private events.

10. Cathedral-Basilica of the Immaculate Conception

Rounding out our list of activities for a day trip to Mobile is the Cathedral-Basilica of the Immaculate Conception. Dating back to 1703, the cathedral was established as the first Catholic Parish on the Gulf Coast. Today, it remains a functioning church and a popular wedding venue. You can view the exterior from Cathedral Square or call the cathedral to inquire about an interior tour.

Camping near Mobile, AL 

Just 50 miles southeast of Mobile is Sun Outdoors Orange Beach. Situated near the Gulf Shores in Orange Beach, Sun Outdoors Orange Beach provides a convenient location for a day trip to Mobile, shopping at The Wharf, or hiking at Gulf State Park. RVers can camp on spacious, landscaped sites that include full hookups, cable TV, WiFi, and views of the lake.

Many convenient amenities are available for guests of Orange Beach. Here's a small sample of what to expect during your stay:

• Fitness center
• Golf cart rentals ($)
• Swimming pool and hot tub
• Dog park
• And much more!

  With historical attractions and plenty of fun, a day trip to Mobile is a must during your Gulf Shores vacation. Remember to stay at Sun Outdoors Orange Beach, where you're perfectly positioned to enjoy the best activities in the area. And don't leave without sharing this post with your travel buddy. They'll want to come too!

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