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.


Free Cancellation:Get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance on most experiences.

 

Dolphins and Wildlife Kayak Experience from Gulf Shores
Dolphins and Wildlife Kayak Experience from Gulf Shores
Spend a day in the great outdoors and enjoy a kayak tour through the waterways of Gulf Shores, Alabama. After getting your kayak gear, paddle out to remote areas and begin your search for the local wildlife. It’s not uncommon to see several species
Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Foley, and Spanish Fort Attraction Ticket
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
Mobile/ Dauphin Island/ Spanish Fort / Theodore Attraction Ticket
Experience a selection of the best attractions in Mobile/ Dauphin Island/ Spanish Fort/ Theodore – all in one money saving ticket! This pass contains 11 ticketed attractions and information on several attractions that are free to the public.
Goofy Gulf Shores Shuffle Scavenger Hunt1

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..