Gulf Shores Museum: Preserving Coastal History
Discover Gulf Shores' past through exhibits on local history, fishing heritage & hurricane resilience at this charming, free museum.
The Gulf Shores Museum, housed in a pre-World War II beach cottage, chronicles the history of Gulf Shores, Alabama, through exhibits on fishing, hurricanes, and the lives of early settlers. With free admission, it's a great place to explore the area's heritage.
A brief summary to Gulf Shores Museum
- 244 W 19th Ave, Gulf Shores, Alabama, 36542, US
- +1251-968-1473
- Visit website
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-2 pm
Local tips
- Check out the museum's rotating exhibits for a fresh perspective on local history.
- Don't miss the butterfly garden behind the museum, featuring a historic ship mast and church steeple.
- The museum is an easy drive from Gulf Shores and Orange Beach rentals.
Getting There
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Walking
The Gulf Shores Museum is located at 244 W 19th Ave, a short walk from many points in the heart of Gulf Shores. From the intersection of Gulf Shores Parkway and 19th Avenue, walk west on 19th Avenue for approximately 0.2 miles. The museum will be on your left. There are sidewalks along 19th Avenue.
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Driving
The Gulf Shores Museum is located at 244 W 19th Ave. From Alabama Highway 59 (Gulf Shores Parkway), turn west onto 19th Avenue. The museum will be on your left in approximately 0.2 miles. Limited free street parking is available on 1st and 2nd streets and avenues. Paid parking is available at Gulf Place and West Gulf Place for $5 for 4 hours or $15 for the day.
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Ride Share
Utilizing a ride-sharing service such as Uber or Lyft is a convenient option to reach the Gulf Shores Museum. From popular nearby locations such as The Hangout, the trip is only a few minutes. Expect to pay around $10-15 for the ride.
Discover more about Gulf Shores Museum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Pottery Central World Headquarters
0.9 km
Explore the rich artistic heritage at Pottery Central World Headquarters, where stunning handcrafted pottery meets Gulf Shores' vibrant culture.
Gulf Shores Alabama
1.2 km
Discover sugar-white beaches, turquoise waters, and family-friendly fun in Gulf Shores, Alabama. Your perfect Gulf Coast getaway awaits!
BeachFlight Aviation
1.7 km
Experience the thrill of gyroplane flight over Gulf Shores with BeachFlight Aviation. Tours & training for unforgettable aerial adventures!
Brett/Robinson Vacation Rentals
1.7 km
Discover the perfect escape at Brett/Robinson Vacation Rentals in Gulf Shores, Alabama, where stunning beaches and comfort await you.
Harris Vacations
2.1 km
Experience the joy of a perfect beach vacation with Harris Vacations, offering exceptional home rentals in Gulf Shores, Alabama.
Gulf Shores Welcome Center
2.1 km
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.
Grass Island
2.2 km
Escape to Grass Island in Gulf Shores: An untouched coastal paradise with pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and abundant wildlife.
Souvenir City
2.5 km
Gulf Shores' iconic souvenir emporium with a giant shark entrance, offering a vast selection of beach-themed merchandise and memorable photo opportunities.
Seacrest
3.9 km
Beachfront condos in Gulf Shores, AL, offering stunning Gulf views, a pool, and easy access to local attractions for a perfect coastal getaway.
WildNative Tours
4.3 km
Discover the stunning landscapes and wildlife of Gulf Shores with WildNative Tours, your gateway to unforgettable outdoor adventures.
Swift-Coles Historic Home
5.6 km
Explore the historic Swift-Coles Home in Bon Secour, Alabama – a captivating journey through time with stunning architecture and lush gardens.
Dolphin & Sailing Tours by Cetacean Cruises
6.0 km
Explore the stunning waters of Orange Beach with Dolphin & Sailing Tours by Cetacean Cruises, where adventure and relaxation come together in an unforgettable experience.
Sunny Lady Dolphin Cruises at The Wharf
6.1 km
Explore the vibrant waters of Orange Beach with Sunny Lady Dolphin Cruises—an unforgettable adventure filled with dolphins, sunsets, and beautiful coastal views.
The Wharf
6.4 km
Experience the ultimate coastal getaway at The Wharf, where shopping, dining, and entertainment await you in beautiful Orange Beach, Alabama.
Ferris Wheel
6.4 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
Johnnie Sims Park Pavilion
0.4 km
A versatile outdoor venue in Gulf Shores, perfect for picnics, reunions, and community events, located within the scenic Johnnie Sims Park.
Kids Park
0.5 km
A vibrant and inclusive playground in Gulf Shores, offering a safe and fun environment for kids to play, explore, and make lasting memories.
Wedgewood Marble Kids
0.9 km
Experience family-friendly fun and tranquility at Wedgewood Marble Kids Garden in Gulf Shores, Alabama, a perfect escape into nature for all ages.
Park Headquarters
1.1 km
Explore Alabama's Gulf Coast: Discover nature trails, beaches, and family fun at Gulf State Park, a natural oasis in Gulf Shores.
Pirate's Island Adventure Golf
1.6 km
Experience a swashbuckling adventure at Pirate's Island Adventure Golf in Gulf Shores! Family-friendly fun with pirate-themed mini golf.
The Track - Gulf Shores
1.6 km
Experience high-octane thrills and family fun at The Track in Gulf Shores, featuring go-karts, mini-golf, arcade games, and exciting rides for all ages.
Waterville USA/Escape House
1.6 km
Experience endless fun and adventure at Waterville USA, the premier amusement park in Gulf Shores, Alabama, featuring water rides, escape rooms, and family-friendly attractions.
Wade Ward Nature Park
2.3 km
Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Wade Ward Nature Park, a premier park in Gulf Shores, Alabama, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families.
Free Tourist Book
2.7 km
Explore the sun-soaked shores and vibrant attractions of Gulf Shores, Alabama, your ultimate travel destination for relaxation and adventure.
Gulf Shores Public Beach
2.8 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.
Mo's Landing Park
3.1 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.
Gulf Shore
3.1 km
Discover Gulf Shore, Alabama: Pristine beaches, family fun, and coastal charm await on the Gulf Coast's most inviting shores.
Coastal Segway Adventures
3.3 km
Discover the scenic beauty of Gulf Shores, Alabama, with Coastal Segway Adventures—an unforgettable journey through nature's wonders on two wheels.
Gulf Oak Ridge Trailhead West
3.4 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.
Jurassic Golf
3.4 km
Experience a glow-in-the-dark dinosaur adventure at Jurassic Golf, an indoor mini-golf course in Gulf Shores perfect for family fun!
Essential places to dine
The Cove Bar and Grill
0.4 km
Discover flavorful grilled dishes and refreshing cocktails at The Cove Bar and Grill in Gulf Shores – your ultimate dining destination by the coast.
The Sloop
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Gulf Shores at The Sloop – where delicious cheesesteaks meet a lively sports bar atmosphere.
Fish River Grill
0.7 km
Discover Fish River Grill in Gulf Shores - where fresh seafood meets Southern hospitality in a cozy coastal setting.
CANTINA LA LUZ
0.7 km
Experience vibrant flavors and authentic Mexican cuisine at Cantina La Luz in Gulf Shores - a culinary gem by the coast.
Efes Greek Kitchen
0.7 km
Discover authentic Greek flavors at Efes Greek Kitchen in Gulf Shores—where every dish tells a story.
The ugly Diner
0.8 km
Experience delightful breakfasts at The Ugly Diner in Gulf Shores – where hearty American classics meet Southern charm.
Acme Oyster House
0.9 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at Acme Oyster House in Gulf Shores - where every meal is a taste of coastal paradise.
Hazel's Nook
0.9 km
Experience delightful breakfasts at Hazel's Nook in Gulf Shores – where southern hospitality meets delicious buffet dining.
Tacky Jacks Gulf Shores
0.9 km
Experience vibrant coastal dining at Tacky Jacks Gulf Shores with fresh seafood and lively atmosphere in Alabama's beautiful beach town.
LuLu's Gulf Shores
1.0 km
Discover family-friendly fun at LuLu's Gulf Shores - where fresh seafood meets lively entertainment in a vibrant coastal setting.
Woodside Restaurant
1.3 km
Experience delightful American cuisine with live music at Woodside Restaurant in Gulf Shores - perfect for families and food lovers alike.
King Neptune's Seafood Restaurant
1.3 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at King Neptune's Seafood Restaurant in Gulf Shores - where coastal flavors meet warm hospitality.
The Daily Catch
1.7 km
Experience authentic seafood delights at The Daily Catch in Gulf Shores - where every bite tells a story from the sea.
Hog Wild Beach & BBQ
1.7 km
Discover mouthwatering barbecue at Hog Wild Beach & BBQ in Gulf Shores – where Southern flavors meet coastal charm.
Original Oyster House Boardwalk
2.1 km
Experience fresh seafood and breathtaking views at Gulf Shores' Original Oyster House Boardwalk - where coastal dining meets vibrant atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gulf Shores City Store
0.3 km
Explore Gulf Shores City Store for unique gifts, beach gear, and local crafts that capture the essence of your Gulf Shores adventure.
Paradise Isle Shopping Center
0.5 km
Explore Paradise Isle Shopping Center, a vibrant shopping mall in Gulf Shores offering diverse shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences for every tourist.
Charm Boutique
0.7 km
Shop at Charm Boutique in Gulf Shores for exclusive women's clothing and accessories that embody style and local charm.
98 Cows
0.7 km
Explore the whimsical world of cow-themed decor at 98 Cows in Gulf Shores, where every piece tells a story and adds charm to your home.
CC's Boutique Gulf Shores
0.7 km
Discover unique coastal fashion at CC's Boutique Gulf Shores, where style meets the spirit of beach living.
David's Gallery- Smoke Shop and Hippie Boutique
0.7 km
Discover unique finds at David's Gallery, a smoke shop and hippie boutique in Gulf Shores, blending culture with eclectic shopping.
The Square Shopping Center
0.8 km
Explore The Square Shopping Center in Gulf Shores for an unforgettable shopping and dining experience filled with local charm and variety.
Gulf Shores Beach Supply
0.8 km
Explore Gulf Shores Beach Supply for all your beach essentials and unique souvenirs, making your coastal experience unforgettable.
Glow Boutique
0.8 km
Explore Glow Boutique in Gulf Shores for unique gifts and local treasures, perfect for tourists seeking a memorable shopping experience.
Gulf Shores Shopping Center
0.9 km
Discover the Gulf Shores Shopping Center, a vibrant retail destination in Alabama with diverse stores, dining options, and a family-friendly atmosphere.
Shop LuLu Buffett
1.0 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs at Shop LuLu Buffett, the beloved gift shop in Gulf Shores owned by Jimmy Buffett's sister.
Maravelle's
1.1 km
Explore Maravelle's, Gulf Shores' top children's clothing store, offering stylish and comfortable apparel for your little ones in a charming boutique setting.
Geez Louise Boutique
2.0 km
Explore the charm of Geez Louise Boutique for unique gifts, trendy clothing, and exquisite jewelry in Gulf Shores, Alabama.
Beach Bazaar
2.2 km
Discover unique beachwear and clothing styles at Beach Bazaar in Gulf Shores, where coastal fashion meets affordability.
Tiki Island Boutique
2.3 km
Explore Tiki Island Boutique in Gulf Shores for unique gifts, stylish clothing, and adorable baby outfits that capture the coastal charm of Alabama.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Galway Irish Public House
0.8 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
1.0 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.
High Tide Daiquiris & Mimosas LLC
1.9 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Gulf Shores at High Tide Daiquiris & Mimosas, where every cocktail is a celebration of coastal living.
Ice House Taproom
2.1 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of American cuisine at Ice House Taproom in Gulf Shores, a must-visit for food and beer lovers.
Mudbugs Dive Bar
2.1 km
Discover Mudbugs Dive Bar in Gulf Shores, Alabama – a vibrant pub offering karaoke, sports, and arcade fun for an unforgettable night out.
Hooters
2.7 km
Experience the thrill of sports and flavor at Hooters in Gulf Shores, your go-to destination for American cuisine and lively atmosphere.
The deck
3.1 km
Experience the charm of Gulf Shores at The Deck, where refreshing drinks and stunning coastal views create the perfect getaway.
Hibas Gulf Shores Karaoke & Arcade Bar
3.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Hibas Gulf Shores Karaoke & Arcade Bar, featuring karaoke, arcade games, and a lively bar atmosphere.
Roasted Oak
3.6 km
Discover Roasted Oak, a delightful bar and coffee shop in Gulf Shores, offering exquisite drinks and stunning views in Gulf State Park.
Bar 45
4.4 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
6.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at 8 Reale OBAL in Orange Beach, where refreshing drinks and a lively atmosphere await every tourist.
Sandshaker at the wharf
6.4 km
Discover the lively Sandshaker at the Wharf, a premier bar in Orange Beach offering delicious drinks, live music, and stunning waterfront views.
The Port
6.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Port in Orange Beach, Alabama - the perfect bar for relaxation and socializing.
Red Or White at The Wharf
6.4 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
6.5 km
Discover Pour Smart Bar in Orange Beach, AL, where delightful drinks and a lively atmosphere await you at this coastal gem.
