Things to Do at Mobile Bay

Complete Guide to Mobile Bay in Mobile

About Mobile Bay

Mobile Bay is a magnificent 413-square-mile estuary located along Alabama's Gulf Coast, serving as one of the most historically significant and ecologically diverse waterways in the southeastern United States. This expansive bay, formed by the convergence of the Mobile and Tensaw rivers with the Gulf of Mexico, has been a crucial maritime gateway for centuries, playing pivotal roles in Native American culture, European colonization, the Civil War, and modern commerce. Today, Mobile Bay offers visitors an extraordinary blend of natural beauty, rich history, and recreational opportunities. The bay's waters teem with marine life, its shores are dotted with historic sites and charming coastal communities, and its strategic location provides access to some of Alabama's most treasured attractions. From dolphin watching and fishing to exploring Civil War battlefields and enjoying fresh Gulf seafood, Mobile Bay presents an authentic Southern coastal experience that captivates nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and adventure seekers alike.

What to See & Do

Historic Fort Morgan

Explore this star-shaped Civil War fortress that guarded Mobile Bay, featuring museum exhibits, cannon demonstrations, and the site of the famous Battle of Mobile Bay where Admiral Farragut declared 'Damn the torpedoes, full speed ahead!'

USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park

Tour the legendary WWII battleship USS Alabama and submarine USS Drum, experiencing authentic naval history through self-guided tours of crew quarters, gun turrets, and command centers

Mobile Bay Ferry

Take a scenic ferry ride across Mobile Bay between Fort Morgan and Dauphin Island, offering spectacular views of the bay, opportunities to spot dolphins, and a relaxing way to travel between destinations

Causeway Boulevard

Drive across the impressive Causeway Boulevard bridge system for panoramic views of Mobile Bay's vast waters, perfect for photography and appreciating the bay's immense scale

Bay fishing and boating

Experience world-class fishing for redfish, speckled trout, and flounder, or enjoy recreational boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding in the bay's protected waters

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Mobile Bay is accessible 24/7 for public areas and boat launches. Individual attractions have varying hours - Fort Morgan: 8am-5pm daily, USS Alabama: 8am-6pm (summer), 8am-4pm (winter), Ferry operates multiple times daily with seasonal schedules

Tickets & Pricing

Bay access is free. Fort Morgan: $7 adults, $6 seniors/military, $4 children. USS Alabama: $15 adults, $13 seniors, $6 children (6-11). Mobile Bay Ferry: $18 per vehicle, $5 per pedestrian

Best Time to Visit

April through October offers the best weather for outdoor activities. Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) provide comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer offers peak boating and swimming conditions but can be hot and humid

Suggested Duration

Plan 2-4 days to fully explore Mobile Bay and its attractions. A single day can cover one major site and some bay activities, while a long weekend allows for complete exploration of multiple historical sites, recreational activities, and nearby coastal areas

Getting There

Mobile Bay is easily accessible via Interstate 65, which connects directly to Mobile from Birmingham and Montgomery. Mobile Regional Airport serves the area with major airline connections. From Mobile city center, various state highways (including AL-193, AL-180, and AL-163) provide access to different parts of the bay. The Mobile Bay Ferry system connects the eastern and western shores, while numerous boat launches and marinas offer water access. Public transportation within Mobile includes bus service, though a rental car is recommended for exploring the full bay area and reaching various historical sites and recreational areas.

Things to Do Nearby

this destination
Explore antebellum mansions, oak-lined streets, and the birthplace of Mardi Gras in America with guided tours, museums, and authentic Southern architecture
Dauphin Island
Visit this barrier island featuring pristine beaches, the Dauphin Island Sea Lab Estuarium, Fort Gaines, and excellent bird watching at the Audubon Bird Sanctuary
Gulf Shores and Orange Beach
Enjoy white sand beaches, championship golf courses, deep-sea fishing charters, and family-friendly attractions just a short drive from Mobile Bay
Spanish Fort Town Center
Shop and dine at this upscale outdoor shopping center located on the eastern shore of Mobile Bay, offering waterfront dining and entertainment
Blakeley State Park
Discover Civil War battlefield sites, hiking trails through diverse ecosystems, and archaeological evidence of early Native American settlements along the Tensaw River

Tips & Advice

Bring sunscreen and insect repellent, especially during summer months when UV exposure and mosquitoes can be intense near the water
Check weather conditions and tidal charts before boating or fishing activities, as Mobile Bay can experience sudden weather changes and strong currents
Consider purchasing a combination ticket if visiting multiple historical sites, as packages often provide significant savings over individual admissions
Pack layers of clothing as temperatures can vary significantly between morning fog, midday heat, and evening breezes across the bay's open waters

Tours & Activities at Mobile Bay