Brief History of Gulf Shores
The completion of the Intracoastal Waterway in 1937, and the opening of the Gulf State Park in 1939, were both crucial factors in attracting people to the Gulf Shores area. The first post office opened in 1947. Previous to that time, the area was sparsely populated with the exception of a small fishing community which dates back to the early 1800s. Incorporation activities began in 1956 with the Town of Gulf Shores finally receiving validation for the incorporation by the judicial system in 1958.
The Intracoastal Canal
Originally the town encompassed some 206 acres geographically located along the banks of the Intracoastal Canal. The 700 feet on the north side of the canal was joined to the larger section on the south side by a cantilever bridge. Development began shortly thereafter, and by the 1960s the town was thriving with family owned grocery stores, restaurants, cottages, and motels for the summer tourists. During the fall and winter months, the town was virtually deserted. In an effort to generate business for these seasons the community arranged fishing rodeos and a National Shrimp Festival began in 1971. Held in October, it has now become a national tourist attraction with upwards of 200,000 people in attendance over a four-day extended weekend.
In 1979, Gulf Shores took a direct hit from Hurricane Fredric. In the aftermath, development surged with increased construction of condominiums, restaurants, and retail outlets. It was during this time the town became the City of Gulf Shores.
Attractions & Sightseeing Tours in Gulf Shores
Below are Sightseeing Activity Tours & Attractions in Gulf Shores, Alabama, USA. Visit Bars, Pubs and Night Clubs in Gulf Shores with our Nightlife Tours which include Wine Tasting, Dining Experiences in some of Gulf Shore’s Finest Restaurants.
Dolphins and Wildlife Kayak Experience from Gulf Shores
Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Foley, and Spanish Fort Attraction Ticket…
Do more as you experience a selection of the best attractions in Gulf Shores/ Orange Beach/ Foley/ Spanish Fort, all on one money saving ticket.all on one money saving ticket. This ticket contains 7 ticketed attractions and information on several attractions
Mobile/ Dauphin Island/ Spanish Fort / Theodore Attraction Ticket
Goofy Gulf Shores Shuffle Scavenger Hunt
Our very unique, immersive adventures are the only ones of their kind. We, unlike other companies, provide your very own remote, interactive, live host to assist and encourage you along. We are an Austin, TX-based global custom event design company offering scavenger hunts..