Top 12 Things To Do in Mobile, Alabama

Top 12 Things To Do in Mobile, Alabama

by Leslie Brashear | Feb 17, 2024 | Alabama, Gardens, History, Museums | 0 comments

Your Ultimate Guide to Discovering the Best of Mobile

Mobile, Alabama is a treasure trove of culture, brimming with Southern hospitality and a rich tapestry of history waiting to be explored. Adventure seekers will find no shortage of thrilling escapades, from kayaking the serene waters of the Mobile-Tensaw Delta to exploring the enchanting beauty of the Bellingrath Gardens and Home. History enthusiasts will be transported back in time as they stroll through the historic districts, with their splendid antebellum architecture and the shadows of the Civil War resonating through the cobblestone streets. For those who savor culinary exploration, visiting Mobile’s food scene is a delightful journey through the flavors of the Gulf Coast, offering everything from fresh seafood to authentic Creole dishes. The sun-kissed parks invite leisurely picnics under the canopy of ancient live oaks, while the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park stands as a sentinel of American history, offering an immersive glimpse into the heroic tales of the WWII era. Mobile is not simply a destination; it’s an experience where every turn reveals a piece of a mosaic that makes up the city’s vibrant story — a place where the allure of the past harmoniously blends with the pulse of modern life, creating an array of activities that promise captivating experiences for visitors and locals of all ages.

Table of Contents

• Visit the Mobile Carnival Museum
• Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center
• USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park
• Mobile Museum of Art
• Enjoy the Street Art in Mobile, Alabama
• The Condé-Charlotte Museum — a Historic Antebellum House in Mobile
• Take a Stroll on the Mobile Community Oyster Trail
• Go on a Delta Wildlife Kayak Tour
• Visit the History Museum of Mobile
• Check Out the Old Homes in the Oakleigh Garden Historic District
• Go on a Downtown Mobile Food Tour
• Visit Mobile Botanical Gardens

Visit the Mobile Carnival Museum

At the heart of Mobile’s festive spirit lies the Mobile Carnival Museum, a vivid celebration of the city’s Mardi Gras tradition. Often overlooked in favor of its more famous New Orleans counterpart, Mobile’s Mardi Gras predates it and is steeped in its own unique customs and vibrant history. The museum is housed in the historic Bernstein-Bush mansion, which adds to the mardi gras museum magic with its beautiful turn-of-the-century architecture. Visitors are engulfed in a world of opulence as they wander rooms filled with intricate gowns, regal crowns, and scepters that tell tales of festivals past.

Interactive exhibits within the Mobile Carnival Museum immerse guests in the pageantry and folklore that is quintessential to Mobile’s Mardi Gras celebration. One can almost hear the echoes of revelry as they view the splendid array of floats that parade down the gallery halls. There’s also an opportunity to learn about the societal organizations, known as mystic societies, that organize the parades and balls, which have become a central social fabric of the city. The Mobile Carnival Museum isn’t just a showcase of costumes and artifacts; it’s an educational pilgrimage into the heart of Mobile’s most cherished festivities, encapsulating the jubilant spirit that has danced through the city’s streets for centuries.

Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center

A beacon of discovery located in the heart of downtown Mobile, the Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center offers an interactive haven for curious minds of all ages. With a mission to inspire a lifelong appreciation for science through engaging exhibits and educational programs, the Exploreum is a must-see for anyone looking to delve into the wonders of the natural world. The facility boasts a variety of permanent and traveling exhibits, as well as an impressive IMAX Dome theater, providing a dynamic and immersive learning environment that ignites the imagination.

The science center is not only a hub for scientific exploration but also connects visitors to the broader context of global and local environmental issues. Among its many features, the Gulf Quest National Maritime Museum of the Gulf of Mexico, located within the center, is a unique attraction that celebrates the historical, cultural, and economic significance of the Gulf of Mexico. Its interactive exhibits allow guests to explore everything from marine wildlife and ecosystems to the technology used in sea exploration and shipping. The Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center is a place where fun and knowledge converge, making science accessible and entertaining for explorers of all backgrounds.

USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park

A commanding presence on Mobile Bay, the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park offers an awe-inspiring look into America’s military might during World War II. The centerpiece of the park, the USS Alabama, also known as the “Mighty A,” inspires reverence and patriotism as soon as visitors set eyes on her. This historic battleship, a South Dakota-class warship, was commissioned in 1942 and served with honor in both the Atlantic and Pacific Theaters. Today, the USS Alabama stands as both a museum and a memorial, allowing visitors to tread the decks and corridors where brave sailors once stood vigil over the seas. Her guns, silent now, still point towards the horizon, a stalwart reminder of the sacrifices made for freedom.

The park extends beyond the battleship itself, offering an up-close look at a variety of military aircraft and watercraft that played vital roles in American warfare. The Medal of Honor Aircraft Pavilion pays homage to the heroes of flight, housing an impressive collection of vintage aircraft, including the iconic B-52 bomber and the A-12 Oxcart. Visitors have the unique opportunity to explore the USS Drum, a World War II submarine, and walk the grounds where vintage tanks and artillery are displayed, each telling its own story of service and valor. The USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park stands not just as national historic landmark and as a collection of military artifacts, but as an immersive educational experience dedicated to preserving the memory of those who fought for peace across the globe.

Mobile Museum of Art

Nestled in the verdant surroundings of Langan Park, the Mobile Museum of Art stands as a sanctuary of creativity and a treasure trove of artistic expression. As the largest art museum along the Gulf Coast, it offers visitors an expansive look at fine arts ranging from traditional European works to contemporary American pieces. The museum’s engaging collection spans centuries, housing over 10,000 works of art that include paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. Its galleries are thoughtfully curated, providing thematic exhibits that reflect both the diversity of art and the common threads that weave through the cultural fabric of various eras and regions.

The Mobile Museum of Art doesn’t only serve to display an array of international masterpieces; it also dedicates significant space to showcasing local Southern artists and the heritage of the Gulf Coast. Exhibitions such as “The Art and Design of Mardi Gras” highlight the vibrant, festive culture unique to Mobile, capturing the lively spirit and painstaking craftsmanship behind the city’s most famous celebration. The museum also provides educational programs and workshops, inviting guests of all ages to engage directly with art and discover their own creative talents. Through community outreach and special events, the Mobile Museum of Art stands as a beacon of inspiration, connecting people with the rich artistic legacy of Mobile and the greater Gulf region.

Enjoy Mobile’s Street Art

Mobile’s thriving arts scene extends beyond its museums and galleries, spilling into the city’s streets and transforming them into a public canvas showcasing vibrant street art. In neighborhoods like the Lower Dauphin Street (LoDa) Arts District, visitors can witness the creativity of local and international artists displayed on building facades, turning a simple stroll into an inspiring journey. Murals of all sizes and styles tell stories of the city’s heritage mobile history, culture, and community, with colors that pop against the Southern sun. This open-air gallery provides a spectrum of visual treats, from thought-provoking abstract pieces to breathtakingly lifelike portraits, offering a free, ever-evolving exhibition to all who pass by.

The interplay of art and architecture creates a unique urban tapestry, as contemporary works echo Mobile’s rich history while also pointing towards its future. Seasonal arts events, like the Mobile Arts Council’s “ArtWalk,” further illuminate the city’s street art landscape, turning the downtown area into a festive gathering of artists and art lovers alike. During such events, the streets pulsate with energy, live music fills the air, and interaction with the artists offers insight into the creative process. Mobile’s street art is not just an aesthetic addition; it’s a vibrant component of the city’s heartbeat, a display of community pride, and a cultural dialogue crafted in brushstrokes and shared with all who wander its lively thoroughfares.Take a Stroll on the Mobile Community Oyster Trail.

The Condé-Charlotte Museum — a Historic Antebellum House in Mobile

The Condé-Charlotte Museum, also known as the Kirkbride House, is a historical gem that reflects the architectural splendor and complex past of Mobile, Alabama. Situated in the city’s picturesque historic district, this antebellum home has stood the test of time, having been built in 1822 as the city’s first courthouse and later transformed into a family residence. The museum now opens its doors to the public, offering a glimpse into the life of the 19th-century South. Each room is meticulously restored and furnished in the style of different periods, ranging from French Empire to American Federal, telling a layered story of the cultural and historical influences that have shaped Mobile.

Visitors marvel at the house’s lush garden and the original brickwork, which has witnessed the ebb and flow of centuries. Stepping inside the Condé-Charlotte Museum is akin to walking through the pages of a Southern gothic novel, where the air seems imbued with tales of yesteryears. The museum doesn’t shy away from the harsher aspects of the era it represents, superbly capturing the realities of life in the antebellum South, including the history of slavery. It serves as a vivid educational tool, providing context for understanding the evolution of social and cultural norms in Mobile and the American South at large.

Take a Stroll on the Mobile Community Oyster Trail

Set against the backdrop of Mobile’s historic downtown, the Mobile Community Oyster Trail beckons visitors on an immersive journey. This unique trail celebrates the city’s rich maritime heritage and its longstanding oyster industry. As you stroll along, you’ll encounter a series of striking oyster sculptures, each intricately painted by local artists to tell stories of the community and its connection to the sea. Not only does the trail offer a window into local culture and artistry, but it also serves as an interactive educational experience, highlighting the importance of oyster reefs for coastal ecosystems.

Go on a Delta Wildlife Kayak Tour

Embark on an unforgettable Delta Wildlife Kayak Tour to experience the natural beauty and ecological diversity of Mobile’s waterways. Paddle through the serene Mobile-Tensaw Delta, where the quiet splashing of your kayak melds with the sounds of chirping birds and rustling reeds. As you navigate the peaceful tributaries and lush wetlands, keep your eyes peeled for glimpses of alligators basking in the sun, otters playing at the water’s edge, and a variety of bird species that call the delta home. Guided tours enlighten paddlers about the local flora and fauna, turning a day on the water into an educational journey as much as a recreational adventure.

Visit the History Museum of Mobile

Step back in time with a visit to the History Museum of Mobile, where the rich tapestry of the city’s past is artfully displayed in a majestic, Greek Revival building that once served as City Hall. Each exhibit delves into a different facet of Mobile’s history, from its Native American beginnings to its role in the Civil War and its evolution into the vibrant city it is today. Artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays bring to life the stories of the people and events that shaped Mobile. Don’t miss the mobile history museum”s crown jewel, the Clotilda exhibit, which recounts the tale of the last known ship to bring enslaved Africans to America — a poignant chapter in the nation’s complex history.

Check Out the Old Homes in the Oakleigh Garden Historic District

The Oakleigh Garden Historic District is a picturesque walk through Mobile’s history, told through its lovingly preserved antebellum homes. Stroll the oak-lined streets, where each home speaks to a bygone era with its unique architectural features, from sprawling Greek Revival mansions to charming Victorian cottages. The highlight is the Oakleigh House Museum, a grand example of Greek Revival architecture that now serves as a house museum, its rooms adorned with period furnishings that offer a window into the life of Mobile society in the 19th century. This district is more than just state park or a collection of old homes; it is a living neighborhood where the echoes of the past meet the vibrancy of modern life.

Go on a Downtown Mobile Food Tour

Indulge in the flavors of the South on a Downtown Mobile Food Tour, a culinary journey that guides your taste buds through the city’s best eateries. Discover the rich blend of French, Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences that define Mobile’s unique cuisine. From hearty gumbo and fresh Gulf seafood to aromatic jambalaya and sweet beignets, each stop on the tour offers a sample of local delicacies. Along with tasting delectable dishes, you’ll absorb stories about the history and culture of Mobile’s dining scene, making this a treat for both foodies and history buffs alike.

Visit Mobile Botanical Gardens

Escape into the verdant oasis of Mobile Botanical Gardens, a tranquil retreat that showcases the lush biodiversity of the Gulf Coast region. Spanning over 100 acres, the gardens comprise various areas designed to celebrate different plant species and ecosystems — like the Rhododendron Garden, Longleaf Pine Habitat, and the fragrant Rose Garden. Meander down shaded paths, admire the colorful floral displays, and relax by serene ponds. It’s not only a place for quiet reflection but also an educational resource, offering workshops and guided tours that teach visitors about plant conservation and the importance of biodiversity.

As we wrap up our exploration of Mobile, Alabama, it’s evident that this city is a hidden gem teeming with a rich cultural heritage, mouth-watering cuisine, and natural beauty. Whether you’re delving into the heart of history at the museums, reveling in the artistry of the local scenes, savoring the culinary delights on a food tour, or unwinding amidst the botanical beauty, Mobile extends a warm Southern welcome that leaves a lasting impression. So pack your bags and set your sights on this charming coastal city, where every corner promises a new adventure and every moment becomes a cherished memory.

Leslie Brashear

Creator of Beach Bux and Out of Atlanta. Web designer, marketer, dog mom (RIP Cookie), traveler, and food explorer.