10 Best Retirement Activities in Alabama
Alabama takes life at a slower pace, but that doesn’t mean it’s lacking in things to see and do. Retirees love visiting (or moving) here because of its mild weather and close proximity to golf courses, beaches, mountains, and just about everything you can imagine. These 10 best retirement activities in Alabama make the golden years all the more enjoyable.
Take a Sunset Dolphin Cruise
If you were too busy stop and enjoy little things like sunsets in your younger years, there’s no better time to start than now. Orange Beach is the perfect locale for watching the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico. Take a dolphin cruise and you’ll get amazing views of local marine life as well as a beautiful ending to the day.
Enjoy a hot air balloon ride
Hot air balloon rides are common bucket list items, and Orange Beach will let you check it off. You can book a private hot air balloon ride and explore the area in a whole new way. You won’t forget an experience like this.
Hike to Desoto Falls
Desoto State Park is filled with hiking trails, but the upper rim of the falls offers the easiest path to get there. Head to the main visitor’s entrance to access the easy paved trails that take you the beautiful falls. You’ll also get the benefit of other amazing views on this short and sweet hike.
Explore the U.S. Space and Rocket Center
Fun for folks of all ages, the space and rocket center is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Visitors can explore a number of exhibitions and hands-on activities. Seniors can add a National Geographic movie showing to their ticket for a discount.
Get inspired at Bellingrath Gardens and Home
Whether you’re looking for a new hobby, want some inspiration for your own home, or just want to marvel at the beauty of these magnificent gardens, this place is truly a sight to behold. Spanning 65 acres of meticulously kept grounds, visitors can expect year-round events, beautiful foliage, and wildlife. The home is also a museum filled with antiques and artifacts that give a nostalgic glimpse into what life was like decades ago.
Score a deal at the Unclaimed Baggage Center
One person’s forgotten luggage is another person’s treasure. The Unclaimed Baggage Center is a major road trip destination for many, offering a little bit of everything at rock bottom deals. You can shop its 40,000-square-foot store and find deals on high-quality, in-good-condition items.
Visit old movie sets
Several major movies have been filmed throughout Alabama, and some of their sets remain open for visitors. Head to Millbrook to explore the fairytale-like setting from the movie “Big Fish.” Or, go to Irondale and grab a meal at the Whistle Stop Cafe, or better known as the iconic “Fried Green Tomatoes” locale.
Stroll through Alligator Alley
Scary and unique all rolled into one, this alligator farm is visitor-friendly for an experience unlike any other. This self-guided tour lets you get closer to alligators (big ones!) than you ever thought possible. You can feed the gators, watch live demonstrations, and enjoy seeing other animal life. It’s also affordable, perfect for retirees on a budget.
Play in Little River Canyon National Preserve
Alabama is home to some amazing state and national parks, but this one is a must-see for retirees. You can camp in nearby Desoto State Park, then head to Little River Canyon for daytime exploration. Hiking, hunting, fishing, kayaking, water activities, birdwatching, biking, and a scenic drive are just a few of the reasons you’ll want to visit again and again.
Explore the lives of F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald
Once the home of literary power couple F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald, this museum allows their legacies to live on. You can book a room within the home, take a tour, or drop in on a writer’s event or workshop.
