When the sun’s turning up the heat and you’ve already melted through your third frozen daiquiri before noon, it just might be time to give the beach a break and head indoors. Lucky for you, the Gulf Coast isn’t short on air-conditioned fun.

Whether you’re dodging a midday heatwave or looking for a backup plan when summer storms roll in, this list of indoor activities in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Fort Morgan, and Perdido Key will keep your crew cool, comfy, and making memories. Because let’s be honest- vacation is better when you’re not sweating through your shorts.

1. Aquarium Adventures Just Across the Bay

Just a ferry ride away from Fort Morgan, the Alabama Aquarium brings the wonders of the Gulf indoors. This air-conditioned wonderland brings you face-to-fin with stingrays, jellyfish, baby alligators, and other coastal critters in over 30 aquariums. It’s educational, hands-on, and full of “oohs” and “ahhs” for kids and grownups alike.

If you’re the type who likes your science served with a side of saltwater, this is a must. And bonus- it’s the perfect indoor outing if you’re staying in the Fort Morgan area.

2. Lights, Camera, Air Conditioning

When the sun’s blazing and you’re ready for a break, these indoor entertainment spots are just the ticket (literally).

• The Arena at The Wharf (Orange Beach): Keep the kids (and the kids at heart) entertained with indoor laser tag, mini golf, and virtual reality games. It’s cool, action-packed fun without the sunburn.
• AMC Theatres at The Wharf (Orange Beach): Kick back in reclining seats and enjoy the latest blockbuster in full-blast AC. Bonus points for buttery popcorn and no sand in your seat…well, not much, anyways.
• OWA Theater (Foley): Check out the calendar for live shows ranging from comedy to concerts. It’s a fun, unique way to enjoy the local scene- all indoors, all year long.

3. Spa Day, Anyone?

Because nothing says “vacation mode” like a day of pampering. Local spas like The Spa at The Beach Club (Gulf Shores) and Serenity at the Beach (Orange Beach) offer relaxing facials, massages, and body treatments that’ll have you floating out the door.

Want something a little extra? Check out The Beachy Blowout Bar in Gulf Shores for a fun girls’ outing, bachelorette glam, or just a confidence boost before date night. It’s not your average hair day- it’s full vacation beauty vibes.

4. A Breezy Walk Through Local History

Need a break from the sun but still want to explore? Swing by the Gulf Shores Museum. Housed in a charming coastal cottage, this small-but-mighty museum tells the story of Gulf Shores through hurricanes, heritage, and hometown history. There’s even a hands-on room for the kids.

Best of all? Admission is free. That’s right- free ninety-nine. And that’s our favorite price when we’re trying to save our pennies for shrimp baskets and souvenir tees.

5. Trampolines, Water Slides & Bowling, Oh My!

If your crew needs to burn off some energy, skip the beach and head to one of these air-conditioned adventure zones:

• The Factory (Gulf Shores): A massive indoor trampoline park that also features foam pits, climbing walls, and ninja courses. It’s a crowd-pleaser for kids, teens, and any adult who still thinks they can do a backflip (maybe just stretch first, you know).
• Tropic Falls Indoor Waterpark at OWA (Foley): Yes, it’s indoors! With waterslides, a lazy river, and a tropical vibe, it’s perfect for staying cool without missing out on the splash.
• Gulf Bowl (Foley): Just a short drive inland. With bowling lanes, laser tag, an arcade, and even a full-service restaurant, it’s a strike every time (pun fully intended).

6. Cool Drinks, Hot Beats

When it’s just too dang hot, step inside and chill with a cold drink, live tunes, and maybe even a little afternoon bingo or trivia. Here are some solid picks where you can stay cool and have fun:

• Flora‑Bama (Perdido Key): This legendary spot isn’t just for evenings. During the day, enjoy live music, bushwackers, and bingo right in the main room all without breaking a sweat.
• Big Beach Brewing (Gulf Shores): A cozy local craft brewery with plenty of indoor seating, a relaxed vibe, and cold drafts on tap. They also host trivia nights several times a week, making it a fun (and brainy) way to beat the heat.
• The Cove Bar & Grill (Gulf Shores): A family-friendly bar and grill with indoor seating, nightly live music, pool tables, darts, and icy drinks- perfect for cooling off after beach time. Pro tip: Don’t miss the stuffed avocado- it’s a local favorite for good reason.

7. Cool Off While Getting Creative

If crafts are your jam or you’re looking for a souvenir that isn’t just a fridge magnet, spend a couple of hours flexing your creative muscles:

• Coastal Arts Center (Orange Beach): Watch glassblowers in action, take a clay class, or browse local art indoors in a beautiful bayfront setting.
• Hawaii Fluid Art (Gulf Shores): Walk-ins welcome! Try your hand at acrylic pour painting or resin art- no experience needed. You’ll leave with a custom masterpiece and probably a few colorful fingers, too.

Stay Cool and Cozy with Beachball Properties

Sure, sunshine and surf are the stars of any beach vacation, but some of the best memories happen inside the adventure. From a splashy indoor waterpark to cozy art studios, arcade battles to spa blowouts, the Alabama Gulf Coast is packed with cool ways to play when the temps start climbing.

And when you’re ready to kick off your flip-flops and unwind, BEACHBALL PROPERTIES  has just the spot. Whether you’re posted up in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Fort Morgan, or Perdido Key, you’ll find a clean, comfy place to call home just minutes from all the fun, indoors and out.

No matter what the weather’s doing, a beach getaway is always a good idea.

Come Have A Ball At The Beach!

– Ginger & Hunter Harrelson