Wade Ward Nature Park: A Coastal Wetland Escape
Discover a hidden gem in Gulf Shores: Wade Ward Nature Park's scenic boardwalks, diverse wildlife, and tranquil wetlands await!
Wade Ward Nature Park, nestled in the heart of Gulf Shores, Alabama, offers a serene 12-acre escape into a natural wetlands environment [4, 11]. Featuring elevated boardwalks, the park provides stunning views of the waterways connecting Little Lagoon and Lake Shelby, making it a prime spot for birdwatching and wildlife observation [4, 7].
A brief summary to Wade Ward Nature Park
- 500 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, Alabama, 36542, US
- +1251-968-1420
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-10 pm
- Thursday 6 am-10 pm
- Friday 6 am-10 pm
- Saturday 6 am-10 pm
- Sunday 6 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Bring binoculars for optimal birdwatching and wildlife viewing opportunities [3, 11].
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking the trails and boardwalks [3].
- Pack sunscreen, a hat, and bug spray to protect yourself from the elements [5].
- Be aware of alligators and keep pets on a leash [5].
Getting There
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Walking
Wade Ward Nature Park is located a short walk from Gulf Place, the main public beach in Gulf Shores [4, 6]. From the intersection of Highway 59 and Beach Boulevard, walk north on Highway 59 for two blocks [4]. The park entrance is on the east side of the road [4]. Sidewalks lead directly to the park entrance [4, 6]. Free parking is available one block east of Highway 59 on East 1st Street [4, 5, 6].
-
Driving
From Highway 59, turn east onto East 1st Avenue or East 2nd Street [4, 15]. Turn right onto East 1st Street [4, 5]. Free public parking is available on East 1st Street, a short walk from the park entrance [4, 5, 6]. Parking is free. Note that paid parking is in effect in many areas of Gulf Shores from March 1 through November 30 [15].
Discover more about Wade Ward Nature Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Souvenir City
0.2 km
Gulf Shores' iconic souvenir emporium with a giant shark entrance, offering a vast selection of beach-themed merchandise and memorable photo opportunities.
Gulf Shores Alabama
1.8 km
Discover sugar-white beaches, turquoise waters, and family-friendly fun in Gulf Shores, Alabama. Your perfect Gulf Coast getaway awaits!
Grass Island
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Seacrest
2.6 km
Beachfront condos in Gulf Shores, AL, offering stunning Gulf views, a pool, and easy access to local attractions for a perfect coastal getaway.
Pottery Central World Headquarters
2.9 km
Explore the rich artistic heritage at Pottery Central World Headquarters, where stunning handcrafted pottery meets Gulf Shores' vibrant culture.
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
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Experience the thrill of gyroplane flight over Gulf Shores with BeachFlight Aviation. Tours & training for unforgettable aerial adventures!
Brett/Robinson Vacation Rentals
4.0 km
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Gulf Shores Welcome Center
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Your first stop for an unforgettable Gulf Shores vacation! Get free maps, brochures, and expert advice to discover the best of the Alabama Gulf Coast.
WildNative Tours
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Original Romar House B & B Inn
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Escapes! To The Shores
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The Wharf
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City Of Gulf Shores Wetlands Park
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Ferris Wheel
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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
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Waterville USA/Escape House
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Gulf Shore
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Park Headquarters
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Gulf State Park Pier
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Coastal Segway Adventures
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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
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Kids Park
2.4 km
A vibrant and inclusive playground in Gulf Shores, offering a safe and fun environment for kids to play, explore, and make lasting memories.
Johnnie Sims Park Pavilion
2.5 km
A versatile outdoor venue in Gulf Shores, perfect for picnics, reunions, and community events, located within the scenic Johnnie Sims Park.
Mo's Landing Park
2.6 km
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Wedgewood Marble Kids
2.6 km
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Branyon Beach
3.4 km
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Pirate's Island Adventure Golf
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The Track - Gulf Shores
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Gulf Oak Ridge Trailhead West
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Essential places to dine
Papa Rocco's
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Sunliner Diner
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Shrimp Basket
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Shrimpy's Grill and Golf
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Mikee's Seafood
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Original Oyster House Boardwalk
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Picnic Beach Bar & Grill
0.3 km
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The Steamer Baked Oyster Bar
0.3 km
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De Soto's Seafood Kitchen
0.4 km
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Gulf Island Grill
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The Hangout Gulf Shores
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Pink Pony Pub
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Island Pancake House
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Hog Wild Beach & BBQ
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Burro Azul
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Tiki Island Boutique
0.0 km
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Island Girl Jewelry & Souvenirs
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Surf Style 206: Surf, Swimwear, Sporting Goods in Gulf Shores
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Gulf Shores Jerky Store
0.2 km
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Beach Bazaar
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Purple Octopus
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Gulf Shores Souvenirs & Gifts
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T Shirt Factory Inc
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Geez Louise Boutique
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Surf Style 207: Surf, Swimwear, Sporting Goods in Gulf Shores
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Alvin's Island - Gulf Shores #19
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Gulf Shores Beach Trading Company
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One-Stop-Fun-Shop
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Island Outfitters
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Maravelle's
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Mudbugs Dive Bar
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Ice House Taproom
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High Tide Daiquiris & Mimosas LLC
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Hooters
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The deck
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Roasted Oak
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The Galway Irish Public House
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Big Beach Brewing
3.0 km
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Hibas Gulf Shores Karaoke & Arcade Bar
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Bar 45
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8 Reale OBAL
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The Port
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Sandshaker at the wharf
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Red Or White at The Wharf
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Pour Smart Bar
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