Wade Ward Nature Park: Gulf Shores' Natural Oasis
Discover a natural oasis in Gulf Shores: Wade Ward Nature Park, a haven for birdwatching and tranquil wetland views.
Wade Ward Nature Park is a 12-acre natural area in the heart of Gulf Shores, Alabama, offering a peaceful escape with scenic boardwalks, diverse wildlife, and beautiful views of the wetlands connecting Little Lagoon and Lake Shelby [2, 6]. It's a prime spot for birdwatching and a serene retreat from the bustling city [4, 6].
A brief summary to Wade Ward Nature Park
- 500 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, Alabama, 36542, US
- +1251-968-1420
- Visit website
Local tips
- Bring binoculars for optimal bird watching and wildlife viewing opportunities [4, 6].
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking the trails and boardwalks [4].
- Pack sunscreen, a hat, and bug spray to protect yourself from the elements [1].
- Visit during the spring or fall for milder weather and increased animal activity [4].
- Be aware of alligators and keep a safe distance. Do not feed the alligators [1, 12].
Getting There
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Walking
Wade Ward Nature Park is located a short walk north of Gulf Place. From the main public beach, walk two blocks north on Highway 59. The park entrance is accessible from a sidewalk on Highway 59 [3]. Free public parking is available a block south of the park, one block east of AL 59 between East Second and East First Avenue [2, 3].
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Driving
From Highway 59 in Gulf Shores, turn east onto E 1st St. Turn left onto Gulf Shores Pkwy/Highway 59. The park will be on your right. Note that parking is not directly at the park; free public parking is available a short walk south, one block east of AL 59 between East Second and East First Avenue [2, 3]. Limited parking is available.
Discover more about Wade Ward Nature Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Souvenir City
0.2 km
A Gulf Shores tradition since 1956, Souvenir City offers a wide array of souvenirs, beachwear, and unique gifts, all under the iconic shark's mouth.
Gulf Shores Alabama
1.8 km
Discover sugar-white beaches, emerald waters, and family-friendly fun in Gulf Shores, Alabama – a captivating coastal escape on the Gulf Coast.
Grass Island
1.8 km
Escape to Grass Island in Gulf Shores: An uninhabited coastal paradise offering pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and abundant wildlife for a serene and unforgettable nature retreat.
Seacrest
2.6 km
Gulf-front condos in Gulf Shores offering a revitalizing beach retreat with panoramic views, plentiful amenities, and a prime shoreline location.
Pottery Central World Headquarters
2.9 km
Discover handcrafted pottery and artistic expression at Pottery Central World Headquarters, a Gulf Shores gem since 1982.
Harris Vacations
3.8 km
Experience the joy of a perfect beach vacation with Harris Vacations, offering exceptional home rentals in Gulf Shores, Alabama.
BeachFlight Aviation
3.8 km
Experience Gulf Shores from a new perspective with BeachFlight Aviation, offering unforgettable gyroplane flights over Alabama's stunning coastline.
Brett/Robinson Vacation Rentals
4.0 km
Discover the perfect escape at Brett/Robinson Vacation Rentals in Gulf Shores, Alabama, where stunning beaches and comfort await you.
Gulf Shores Welcome Center
4.4 km
Your first stop for planning the perfect Gulf Shores vacation: information, brochures, and friendly advice for an unforgettable coastal experience.
WildNative Tours
5.6 km
Discover the stunning landscapes and wildlife of Gulf Shores with WildNative Tours, your gateway to unforgettable outdoor adventures.
Original Romar House B & B Inn
6.4 km
Discover the charm of Original Romar House B & B Inn, a serene retreat on Perdido Beach, blending Southern hospitality with coastal relaxation.
Escapes! To The Shores
7.3 km
Experience the beauty of Orange Beach at Escapes! To The Shores, your premier vacation home rental agency offering stunning beachfront properties.
The Wharf
7.4 km
Experience the ultimate coastal getaway at The Wharf, where shopping, dining, and entertainment await you in beautiful Orange Beach, Alabama.
City Of Gulf Shores Wetlands Park
7.4 km
Escape to nature at Gulf Shores Wetlands Park: trails, wildlife, and serene beauty await. Open daily 6 AM - 8 PM. A perfect outdoor adventure!
Ferris Wheel
7.4 km
Soar high above Orange Beach with a ride on the Ferris Wheel, offering stunning views and unforgettable memories for the whole family.
Unmissable attractions to see
Gulf Shores Public Beach
0.5 km
Discover the pristine beauty of Gulf Shores Public Beach, where sun-kissed sands and azure waters await every traveler in Alabama's coastal paradise.
Waterville USA/Escape House
0.7 km
Gulf Shores' ultimate family fun destination: Waterville USA, where water thrills meet amusement park excitement!
Gulf Shore
1.3 km
Discover Alabama's Gulf Coast: Pristine beaches, family fun, and Southern charm await in Gulf Shores. Your perfect getaway starts here!
Park Headquarters
1.8 km
Discover Alabama's Gulf Coast: Information hub for exploring Gulf State Park's trails, beaches, and natural wonders.
Gulf State Park Pier
2.2 km
Experience the thrill of fishing and breathtaking Gulf views at Alabama's iconic Gulf State Park Pier, a landmark of resilience and beauty.
Coastal Segway Adventures
2.2 km
Discover the scenic beauty of Gulf Shores, Alabama, with Coastal Segway Adventures—an unforgettable journey through nature's wonders on two wheels.
Gulf Shores Museum
2.3 km
Discover Gulf Shores' past at this charming museum, featuring exhibits on local history, fishing heritage, and hurricane resilience.
Kids Park
2.4 km
A vibrant, community-built playground in Gulf Shores offering diverse play structures, shaded areas, and green spaces for a fun family experience.
Johnnie Sims Park Pavilion
2.5 km
A versatile outdoor venue in Gulf Shores, perfect for family gatherings, parties, and recreational activities in a scenic park setting.
Mo's Landing Park
2.6 km
Discover a peaceful waterfront escape at Mo's Landing Park in Gulf Shores, offering boat ramps, picnic areas, and scenic views of Little Lagoon.
Wedgewood Marble Kids
2.6 km
Experience family-friendly fun and tranquility at Wedgewood Marble Kids Garden in Gulf Shores, Alabama, a perfect escape into nature for all ages.
Branyon Beach
3.4 km
Discover a serene coastal escape at Branyon Beach in Gulf Shores, AL, with soft sands, clear waters, and access to scenic trails.
Pirate's Island Adventure Golf
3.8 km
Experience a swashbuckling adventure for the whole family at Pirate's Island Adventure Golf in Gulf Shores, Alabama! Open daily, fun for all ages!
The Track - Gulf Shores
3.8 km
Experience high-octane thrills and family fun at The Track in Gulf Shores with go-karts, rides, mini golf, and a huge arcade!
Gulf Oak Ridge Trailhead West
3.9 km
Discover a serene escape amidst ancient oaks and diverse wildlife on Gulf Oak Ridge Trail, a gem within Gulf State Park's natural beauty.
Essential places to dine
Papa Rocco's
0.1 km
Discover Papa Rocco's in Gulf Shores – where delicious pizza meets vibrant bar vibes in a casual coastal setting.
Sunliner Diner
0.1 km
Discover Sunliner Diner in Gulf Shores – A nostalgic spot serving delicious breakfast classics and irresistible ice cream treats.
Shrimp Basket
0.2 km
Discover delicious seafood delights at Shrimp Basket in Gulf Shores - where freshness meets flavor in every bite!
Shrimpy's Grill and Golf
0.2 km
Experience delicious dining and family-friendly fun at Shrimpy's Grill and Golf in Gulf Shores—where great food meets engaging mini-golf!
Mikee's Seafood
0.2 km
Experience authentic Southern seafood at Mikee's Seafood in Gulf Shores – where freshness meets flavor in a relaxed coastal setting.
Original Oyster House Boardwalk
0.2 km
Experience fresh seafood and breathtaking views at Gulf Shores' Original Oyster House Boardwalk - where coastal dining meets vibrant atmosphere.
Picnic Beach Bar & Grill
0.3 km
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The Steamer Baked Oyster Bar
0.3 km
Experience the best of Gulf Shores at The Steamer Baked Oyster Bar - where fresh seafood meets Southern hospitality in a vibrant coastal setting.
De Soto's Seafood Kitchen
0.4 km
Discover De Soto's Seafood Kitchen in Gulf Shores: Fresh seafood delights paired with warm Southern hospitality in a charming coastal setting.
Gulf Island Grill
0.4 km
Experience Caribbean flavors at Gulf Island Grill in Gulf Shores—where fresh seafood meets vibrant island culture.
The Hangout Gulf Shores
0.4 km
Savor fresh seafood while enjoying live music and beachfront views at The Hangout Gulf Shores – where fun meets flavor!
Pink Pony Pub
0.5 km
Experience delightful seafood dining at Pink Pony Pub in Gulf Shores – where flavor meets coastal charm!
Island Pancake House
0.6 km
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Hog Wild Beach & BBQ
0.6 km
Discover mouthwatering barbecue at Hog Wild Beach & BBQ in Gulf Shores – where Southern flavors meet coastal charm.
Burro Azul
0.6 km
Discover Burro Azul in Gulf Shores for an unforgettable Mexican dining experience with family-friendly vibes and vibrant flavors.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Tiki Island Boutique
0.0 km
Explore Tiki Island Boutique in Gulf Shores for unique gifts, stylish clothing, and adorable baby outfits that capture the coastal charm of Alabama.
Island Girl Jewelry & Souvenirs
0.1 km
Explore the charm of Gulf Shores with unique jewelry, clothing, and souvenirs at Island Girl Jewelry & Souvenirs.
Surf Style 206: Surf, Swimwear, Sporting Goods in Gulf Shores
0.1 km
Discover the ultimate beach shopping experience at Surf Style 206 in Gulf Shores, featuring swimwear, sporting goods, and unique souvenirs for every beachgoer.
Gulf Shores Jerky Store
0.2 km
Discover delicious jerky and unique southern flavors at Gulf Shores Jerky Store, a must-visit destination for meat lovers in Alabama.
Beach Bazaar
0.2 km
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Purple Octopus
0.2 km
Explore the vibrant collection of unique T-shirts and coastal souvenirs at Purple Octopus, your must-visit store in Gulf Shores.
Gulf Shores Souvenirs & Gifts
0.2 km
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T Shirt Factory Inc
0.2 km
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Geez Louise Boutique
0.3 km
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Surf Style 207: Surf, Swimwear, Sporting Goods in Gulf Shores
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Alvin's Island - Gulf Shores #19
0.4 km
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Gulf Shores Beach Trading Company
0.4 km
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One-Stop-Fun-Shop
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Island Outfitters
0.9 km
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Maravelle's
1.2 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Mudbugs Dive Bar
0.2 km
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Ice House Taproom
0.2 km
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High Tide Daiquiris & Mimosas LLC
0.4 km
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Hooters
0.5 km
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The deck
1.3 km
Experience the charm of Gulf Shores at The Deck, where refreshing drinks and stunning coastal views create the perfect getaway.
Roasted Oak
2.4 km
Discover Roasted Oak, a delightful bar and coffee shop in Gulf Shores, offering exquisite drinks and stunning views in Gulf State Park.
The Galway Irish Public House
2.7 km
Discover the heart of Ireland in Gulf Shores at The Galway Irish Public House, a cozy pub with delicious food, drinks, and live entertainment.
Big Beach Brewing
3.0 km
Explore the craft of local brewing at Big Beach Brewing in Gulf Shores, where every sip tells a story of passion, quality, and community spirit.
Hibas Gulf Shores Karaoke & Arcade Bar
5.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Hibas Gulf Shores Karaoke & Arcade Bar, featuring karaoke, arcade games, and a lively bar atmosphere.
Bar 45
6.6 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Bar 45 in Gulf Shores, where delicious food, sports, and entertainment come together for an unforgettable experience.
8 Reale OBAL
7.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at 8 Reale OBAL in Orange Beach, where refreshing drinks and a lively atmosphere await every tourist.
The Port
7.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Port in Orange Beach, Alabama - the perfect bar for relaxation and socializing.
Sandshaker at the wharf
7.5 km
Discover the lively Sandshaker at the Wharf, a premier bar in Orange Beach offering delicious drinks, live music, and stunning waterfront views.
Red Or White at The Wharf
7.5 km
Experience the art of wine at Red Or White, where local flavors meet an exquisite selection in the heart of Orange Beach.
Pour Smart Bar
7.5 km
Discover Pour Smart Bar in Orange Beach, AL, where delightful drinks and a lively atmosphere await you at this coastal gem.
