Magnolia Springs AlabamaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Magnolia Springs, Alabama.
1. Magnolia River
SCENIC WATERWAY ADVENTURE
The Magnolia River flows through the heart of Magnolia Springs, offering visitors a chance to explore the area by boat or kayak. The river is known for its crystal-clear waters and the unique distinction of having mail delivered by boat to waterfront homes. Visitors can enjoy fishing, wildlife watching, and peaceful paddling experiences on this picturesque waterway.
2. Jesse's Restaurant
LOCAL CULINARY GEM
Jesse's Restaurant is a beloved dining establishment in Magnolia Springs serving up Southern cuisine in a charming historic setting. The restaurant is housed in a building dating back to 1922, combining rustic charm with elegant dining. Guests can enjoy fresh seafood, steaks, and local specialties while soaking in the authentic ambiance.
3. St. Paul's Episcopal Chapel
HISTORIC SACRED SPACE
St. Paul's Episcopal Chapel stands as a historic landmark in Magnolia Springs, showcasing beautiful Gothic Revival architecture. Built in 1902, the chapel features original stained glass windows and handcrafted woodwork that captivates visitors. The chapel continues to serve as both a place of worship and a significant historical site for the community.
4. Magnolia Springs Public Library
COMMUNITY LITERARY HAVEN
The Magnolia Springs Public Library serves as a cultural and educational hub for the community. Beyond books, the library offers programs, events, and resources that celebrate local history and literature. Visitors appreciate the warm, inviting atmosphere and knowledgeable staff who provide insights into the town's rich heritage.
5. Local Artisan Shops
HANDCRAFTED TREASURES COLLECTION
Magnolia Springs boasts a collection of local artisan shops showcasing handcrafted goods rooted in the town's artistic traditions. Visitors can browse through intricately carved wooden artifacts, hand-blown glass creations, delicate jewelry, and hand-painted ceramics. Many shops offer workshops and demonstrations, allowing guests to experience the craft process firsthand and create their own souvenirs.
6. Gulf State Park
COASTAL NATURAL WONDER
Gulf State Park encompasses 6,500 acres of pristine natural beauty near Magnolia Springs, featuring freshwater marshes and coastal hardwood swamps. The park offers 28 miles of hiking and biking trails, a two-mile beach, fishing opportunities, and diverse wildlife viewing. Visitors can experience the full spectrum of Gulf Coast ecosystems while enjoying activities ranging from swimming to bird watching.
7. Fairhope Downtown
CHARMING BAYSIDE SHOPPING
Fairhope's picturesque downtown area is filled with unique boutiques, art galleries, and cafes just a short drive from Magnolia Springs. The walkable streets lined with oak trees create a romantic atmosphere perfect for a day trip. Visitors enjoy browsing through shops offering everything from local art to gourmet foods while taking in views of Mobile Bay.
8. Magnolia Springs Bed & Breakfast
HISTORIC LODGING EXPERIENCE
The Magnolia Springs Bed & Breakfast offers guests a chance to stay in a historic home dating back to 1897. Located in the heart of town, this charming inn features period furnishings, wrap-around porches, and beautiful gardens under ancient oak trees. The B&B serves as an ideal base for exploring the region while providing insights into local history and culture.
9. Weeks Bay Reserve
COASTAL RESEARCH SANCTUARY
Weeks Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve protects 6,000 acres of coastal habitats close to Magnolia Springs. The reserve features boardwalks and trails through marshes and forests, along with a visitor center offering educational exhibits about coastal ecosystems. Nature enthusiasts can observe diverse wildlife including ospreys, alligators, and numerous plant species in their natural habitats.
10. Dolphin Cruises
MARINE WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERS
Dolphin cruises departing from nearby Gulf Shores offer visitors a chance to observe bottlenose dolphins in their natural environment. These guided boat tours provide educational commentary about local marine life and coastal ecosystems. Passengers frequently enjoy close encounters with playful dolphins swimming alongside the boats, creating unforgettable memories.
11. Historic Mobile
PORT CITY HERITAGE
Historic Mobile, just an hour from Magnolia Springs, showcases over 300 years of Gulf Coast history through its architecture and museums. The city features stunning antebellum homes, the USS Alabama battleship, and the vibrant entertainment district of Dauphin Street. Visitors can explore Mobile's multicultural heritage, from French and Spanish colonial influences to its status as the birthplace of American Mardi Gras.
12. Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge
COASTAL WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge preserves critical habitat for migratory birds and endangered species near the Gulf Coast. The refuge encompasses beaches, dunes, scrub forests, and wetlands across more than 7,000 acres of protected land. Visitors can hike scenic trails, observe diverse wildlife including sea turtles during nesting season, and experience pristine natural beaches away from commercial development.
13. Craft Farms Golf Resort
PREMIER GOLFING DESTINATION
Craft Farms Golf Resort features two championship golf courses designed by golf legend Arnold Palmer. The courses, Cotton Creek and Cypress Bend, offer challenging play amidst beautiful coastal landscapes with lakes, native vegetation, and rolling fairways. Golfers appreciate the excellent course conditions, professional service, and the Southern clubhouse atmosphere perfect for post-round relaxation.
14. The Wharf
ENTERTAINMENT & SHOPPING COMPLEX
The Wharf in Orange Beach is a premier entertainment destination featuring shopping, dining, and activities just a short drive from Magnolia Springs. Visitors can enjoy the marina, amphitheater for live performances, and one of the Southeast's tallest Ferris wheels with spectacular coastal views. The complex hosts frequent events including concerts, festivals, and a vibrant nightlife scene throughout the year.
15. Alabama Coastal Birding Trail
AVIAN WATCHING PARADISE
The Alabama Coastal Birding Trail offers exceptional bird watching opportunities through multiple sites in the region surrounding Magnolia Springs. The trail system showcases diverse habitats from estuaries to forests where over 400 bird species can be observed throughout the year. Dedicated birders and casual nature enthusiasts alike enjoy spotting everything from painted buntings and herons to majestic bald eagles along the well-maintained viewing areas.