Gulf Shores is located on the southern border of Alabama, about 50 miles south of Mobile. The city's location on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico makes it a vacation destination for many travelers. The city is mostly made up of hotels, restaurants, shops and other tourist attractions lining the large white sand beaches. There are a variety of activities available in Gulf Shores that appeal to visitors.
This popular zoo was first opened in June 1989 as an animal park, which was expanded to the present 17-acre zoo in 1991. The zoo has more than 290 animals, including monkeys, lions, tigers, bears and macaws. Among the zoos attractions are a reptile house, aviary, daily animal shows and a petting zoo. A number of events and special exhibits are held throughout the year, all of which are listed on the zoo's website. The zoo is open every day of the year except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's. As of 2010, the admission price is ten dollars for adults, eight dollars for seniors and seven dollars for children (ages 2 and under are free). A gift shop with souvenirs, toys and apparel is located on site.
Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
1204 Gulf Shores Parkway
Gulf Shores, AL 36542
(251) 968-5731
alabamagulfcoastzoo.org
Pelican Place at Craft Farms is a large shopping center located about four miles from the beach. With over 30 popular stores, including Target, Sun Rays Sunglasses Center, Bed, Bath & Beyond and Hibbett Sports, this is one of the top shopping destinations in Gulf Shores. A number of restaurants and eateries are also located on site, including Papa's Pizza, Subway, Longhorn Steak House and Cold Stone Creamery. The Pinnacle Theatre has 14 movie theaters playing the latest releases.
Pelican Place at Craft Farms
3800 Gulf Shores Pkwy
Gulf Shores, AL 36542
thepelicanplace.com
The Track Family Recreation Center is located just north of the canal bridge leading to the beachfront hotels in Gulf Shores. Among the many attractions at this fun location are go-karts, mini-golf and bumper boats. For little ones who are too small for other rides, the Kids Country at the Track has a few rides with no height or weight requirements. Visitors that are more daring may want to try the Skycoaster, a skydiving-like experience where riders free fall from 110 feet and reach speeds of up to 70 miles per hour. An arcade is also on site and features a variety of video games for different ability levels. As of 2010, admission to this park is free as visitors buy tickets for the specific rides or attractions of their choosing.
The Track Family Recreation Center
3200 Gulf Shores Parkway
Gulf Shores, AL 36542
(251) 968-8111
gulfshorestrack.com
