Wade Ward Nature Park: A Coastal Wetland Escape
Discover a peaceful natural escape in Gulf Shores at Wade Ward Nature Park, featuring scenic boardwalks and diverse wildlife viewing opportunities.
Wade Ward Nature Park in Gulf Shores, Alabama, offers a serene 12-acre natural retreat amidst a bustling resort city. Featuring scenic boardwalks, the park allows visitors to observe local wildlife in their natural wetland habitat. It's an ideal spot for birdwatching and a peaceful escape into nature.
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
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the most comfortable temperatures and best opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife sightings.
- Bring binoculars and a camera to enhance your wildlife viewing and capture the park's natural beauty.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking the trails and boardwalks.
- Pack water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized during your visit.
Getting There
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Walking
Wade Ward Nature Park is located just two blocks north of Gulf Place, the main public beach in Gulf Shores. From Gulf Place, walk north along Gulf Shores Parkway (Highway 59) for approximately two blocks. The park entrance will be on your right. There is a sidewalk that leads directly to the park. This is a free and easy way to access the park.
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Public Transport
While Gulf Shores has limited public transportation, the Coastal Express Shuttle may offer service to the general area. Check their website or call for specific routes and schedules. From the nearest drop-off point, you may need to walk a short distance to reach the park. Fares vary depending on distance and service.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxi services like Coast Cab and ride-sharing options such as Uber and Lyft are available in Gulf Shores. Request a ride to 500 Gulf Shores Parkway. The fare from most locations in Gulf Shores to Wade Ward Nature Park typically ranges from $10 to $20, depending on the distance and demand.
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Driving
From most locations in Gulf Shores, drive towards the intersection of Highway 59 and East 2nd Avenue. Turn onto Highway 59 and drive north for two blocks. Look for the park entrance on the east side of the road. Free public parking is available a short walk south of the park, one block east of Highway 59 between East Second and East First Avenue. There are no parking fees.
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
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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.
BeachFlight Aviation
3.8 km
Experience Gulf Shores from a new perspective with BeachFlight Aviation, offering unforgettable gyroplane flights over Alabama's stunning coastline.
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.
Original Romar House B & B Inn
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Escapes! To The Shores
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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
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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.
Outer Limits VR Game Room
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Dive into an unforgettable virtual reality adventure at Outer Limits VR Game Room, the ultimate amusement center in Orange Beach, Alabama, for all ages.
Breakout Games - Orange Beach
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Beachside Mini Golf
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Experience the joy of mini-golf at Beachside Mini Golf in Orange Beach, Alabama, where fun meets family-friendly entertainment in a stunning coastal setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
Gulf Shores Public Beach
0.5 km
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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.
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
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Branyon Beach
3.4 km
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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
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Discover a serene escape amidst ancient oaks and diverse wildlife on Gulf Oak Ridge Trail, a gem within Gulf State Park's natural beauty.
Gulf State Park Pavillion
4.4 km
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Gulf State Park Nature Center
4.7 km
Explore native Gulf Coast wildlife at this interactive nature center in Gulf State Park. Free admission, educational programs, fun for all ages!
Essential places to dine
Papa Rocco's
0.1 km
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Sunliner Diner
0.1 km
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Shrimp Basket
0.2 km
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Shrimpy's Grill and Golf
0.2 km
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Mikee's Seafood
0.2 km
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Original Oyster House Boardwalk
0.2 km
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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
0.4 km
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Pink Pony Pub
0.5 km
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Island Pancake House
0.6 km
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Hog Wild Beach & BBQ
0.6 km
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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
0.1 km
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Surf Style 206: Surf, Swimwear, Sporting Goods in Gulf Shores
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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
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Beach Bazaar
0.2 km
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Purple Octopus
0.2 km
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Gulf Shores Souvenirs & Gifts
0.2 km
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T Shirt Factory Inc
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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
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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
0.4 km
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Hooters
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The deck
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Roasted Oak
2.4 km
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The Galway Irish Public House
2.7 km
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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
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8 Reale OBAL
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Experience the vibrant nightlife at 8 Reale OBAL in Orange Beach, where refreshing drinks and a lively atmosphere await every tourist.
The Port
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Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Port in Orange Beach, Alabama - the perfect bar for relaxation and socializing.
Sandshaker at the wharf
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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.
