The holidays are over, and if you’re anything like me, you’re thanking your lucky stars you made it out alive. Okay, maybe that’s a touch dramatic—but when your hometown is clear across the country, getting back for the holidays is a full-blown expedition. It drains your bank account, wrecks your body, and, if you hail from a dysfunctional household, takes a sledgehammer to your mental state.
But because this girl was born and raised in the dirty South, I know the ins, outs, and backroads of this place better than most. That’s why I’m breaking it down for you in two installments: the winter and summer editions.
First up—my wonderfully unhinged winter recommendations for the demon that is Dixieland. Buckle up.
WELCOME TO L.A. – Lower Alabama
So, you’ve landed on the Gulf Coast—either by choice or, more likely, against your will. The white sandy beaches are too damn cold, and Mardi Gras is still a distant mirage. So, what the hell are you supposed to do?
I’ll be honest—unless you’re making the trek to Mobile (that’s Moe-Beel for all you non-natives), excitement might be in short supply at first glance. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered.
Truthfully, your time here is better spent soaking up the sun outdoors and frequenting dive bars rather than chasing tourist traps. That said, I’ll throw in a few attractions for good measure. But let’s be clear—I didn’t start this blog to rattle off sightseeing itineraries. Miss Guided exists to show you how to experience a place the way locals do, because, let’s face it, that’s the only way that matters.
With that in mind, I’m breaking this guide down into three essential categories: outdoor adventures, sightseeing, and—my personal favorite—dive bars.
So, let’s get into it, shall we?
Outdoor Adventures: The Only Real Adventuring You Can Do in Rural America
Full disclosure: This one was tough to categorize between winter and summer activities. Not because it doesn’t get cold in the South—it absolutely does—but because the cold doesn’t stop us from having fun. Down here, outdoor adventure isn’t a season, it’s a lifestyle.
The key to happiness? Toys. Boats, four-wheelers, dirt bikes, and trucks with enough horsepower to shake the ground. The name of the game is getting dirty, and if you’re not leaving covered in mud, did you even go outside?
What the Hell is Mudding?
Mudding isn’t just off-roading. It’s not about aimlessly tearing through the woods, drifting around trees like a lunatic, and narrowly avoiding disaster for bragging rights (though, let’s be real, that’s part of it).
**Mudding is about burying your vehicle in mud—**as deep as you can go while still having a fighting chance of getting out.
I once watched a man completely submerge his four-wheeler under a lake of pure sludge—up to his chest in filth, beer raised high like a trophy of war—only to emerge, reborn, covered head-to-toe in his newly earned badge of honor. Then, without missing a beat, he chugged the rest of his Bud Light like a goddamn champion.
That’s why rainy season is prime time for mudding. It could be summer, it could be winter—doesn’t matter. But for the sake of organization, I’m saving summer for water sports and throwing this one into the winter category.
First-Time Mudding? Here’s What You Need to Know
- Wear waders. You will get wet. You will get muddy. Your clothes? Ruined. Accept this.
- Practice makes perfect. I once saw an avid dirt biker struggle to keep up because he was used to the hard-packed dirt of California, not the unpredictable, swampy hellscape that is Southern mud. The terrain is slick, it shifts under your wheels, and you’re one bad decision away from being knee-deep in a bog.
- Don’t go alone. Bring a friend, and for the love of all that is holy, bring a winch. I don’t care how good you think you are—you’re going to get stuck. And when you do, you’ll want someone there to pull your dumb ass out.
Where to Go Mudding
If you’re local, chances are you’re not even thinking about official trails. You’re either riding on a friend’s land or headed to “that spot Jimmy keeps talking about.”
But for those looking for an actual place with a name and maybe a sign or two, Red Creek Off-Road is a solid bet. It’s technically in Mississippi, but it’s just a hop over the state line. If you’re in Baldwin or Mobile County, it’s only a couple-hour drive, and it’s worth it.
Fairhope Pier: A Waterfront Retreat
If we’re talking outdoor adventures, we have to mention fishing. While I’ll dive into that more in a later post, I’d be remiss if I didn’t give a nod to Fairhope Pier.
Originally built in the 1890s, the pier has been a central landmark in Fairhope, Alabama, an artsy, laid-back town perched on Mobile Bay. The current pier was rebuilt in 1968 after a hurricane wiped out its predecessor, and today, it’s a favorite spot for fishing, sunset-watching, and casual strolling. It even features a restaurant and marina, making it a prime spot to spend a lazy afternoon.
Fairhope’s Holiday Boating Parade
Since this is a winter-themed post, I have to mention one of Fairhope’s most unique seasonal events—the Fairhope Christmas Boat Parade.
Every December, a flotilla of decked-out boats covered in twinkling holiday lights makes its way across Mobile Bay, creating a floating festival of Christmas spirit. Locals gather along the pier and shorelines to watch, and if you’re lucky enough to know someone with a boat, you can join the fun on the water.
Tourist Attractions, Minus the Tourists
Let’s talk about some recent discoveries I made in a little patch of woods we like to call Elberta, Alabama.
Bamahenge: Stonehenge, but Make It Alabama
For those of us who can’t afford to leave the state, Bamahenge is a bizarre yet glorious roadside oddity—a full-scale fiberglass replica of Stonehenge plopped right in the middle of the woods. Built by artist Mark Cline in 2012, it may not be made of ancient stone, but unlike the real thing, you’re free to climb all over it without offending the spirits of prehistoric Druids.
It’s worth a stop if you’re in the area and makes for some fantastic “Look, Ma, I traveled” photos—without ever leaving Baldwin County.
Dinosaurs in the Woods? Sure, Why Not.
If you venture just beyond Bamahenge and hit the off-road trails, you’ll find yourself in the middle of a prehistoric fever dream—massive, hand-crafted dinosaurs lurking between the trees.
Why are they there? No one really knows, and honestly, I don’t want to ask too many questions.
It’s another Mark Cline creation because his whole brand seems to be “What if I made Alabama weird?” Either way, it makes for an interesting ride—especially with a cold beer in hand. Nothing like dodging trees with a T-Rex watching your every move.
Barber Marina: Home of the Lady in the Lake
A little farther up the road, you’ll find Barber Marina, a well-known boating spot on Wolf Bay. But the real attraction? The Lady in the Lake.
This eerie, larger-than-life sculpture of a woman’s head emerges from the water like some kind of Southern Gothic mermaid, her dead-eyed stare following you wherever you go.
It’s another Mark Cline original (because of course it is), commissioned by millionaire George Barber, who one day must have decided, You know what this marina needs? A giant, vaguely unsettling statue watching over it.
Creepy? Yes. Cool? Also yes.
Mobile, Alabama: Home of the Battleship
Now let’s venture across the bay to Battleship Memorial Park, a place I remember fondly from childhood.
This spot is home to the USS Alabama (BB-60), a massive World War II battleship that served in both the Atlantic and Pacific theaters before being decommissioned in 1947.
Nicknamed “The Mighty A,” she was a key player in several major battles and now serves as a floating museum, packed with history and some seriously intimidating firepower. Climbing through its tight corridors and towering decks feels like stepping straight into a time machine.
Downtown Mobile: The Hidden Gem of the Gulf Coast
Then there’s Mobile, Alabama, a true melting pot of great cuisine, deep history, stunning architecture, and of course, Mardi Gras.
But I’ll save that for another blog entry—because trust me, Mobile’s Mardi Gras is a beast of its own.
If it’s your first time in Mobile, Dauphin Street is where you want to be. It’s the heart of the city’s nightlife, lined with dive bars, music venues, and above-average cuisine. Think of it as Bourbon Street’s more laid-back, slightly classier cousin.
- Grab a craft cocktail at The Haberdasher.
- Listen to live music at Veet’s.
- Stumble into Hayley’s Bar, one of the longest-running dive bars in the city.
History with a Punch: The Mobile History Museum
For a deep dive into the city’s past, head over to the History Museum of Mobile.
The building itself is historic—it used to be Mobile’s Southern Market and City Hall back in the 1800s, serving as a hub for merchants and business owners. Now, it houses a massive collection of exhibits covering everything from Native American history to the Civil War and more recent moments in Mobile’s evolution.
When I last visited, they were featuring a Samurai exhibit. While admittedly not Southern at all, it was still pretty damn cool.
But what really makes this museum stand out is its unapologetic approach to history. It doesn’t shy away from Mobile’s complicated past, including its role in the slave trade. If that makes you uncomfortable—well, history isn’t always pretty.
And if you want to dive into Mobile’s own brand of Mardi Gras madness, they have a whole section dedicated to Joe Cain, the man credited with reviving Mardi Gras in the city after the Civil War. Unlike the glitzy, booze-fueled revelry of New Orleans, Mobile’s Mardi Gras has a deep-rooted, almost defiant history—born out of post-war resilience and a need for joy.
Fort Morgan: A Still-Standing Nod to the Civil War
Back over the bay, past my hometown and toward Orange Beach, you’ll find Fort Morgan.
For local kids, it’s a mandatory school field trip stop—because nothing says Alabama education like dragging a bunch of sweaty middle schoolers through a 19th-century military fort.
Built between 1819 and 1834, Fort Morgan was a major stronghold during the Civil War, most famous for its role in the Battle of Mobile Bay in 1864, where Union Admiral David Farragut shouted his legendary command:
“Damn the torpedoes, full speed ahead!”
(Spoiler: it worked.)
The fort also saw action in both World Wars before being officially retired in 1947. And like any self-respecting historical landmark, it’s haunted—or so they say.
I once went after hours to investigate these claims. The atmosphere was undeniably eerie, but I didn’t catch any ghosts on camera. However, on the long country road heading back, I stopped to stretch my legs and saw something in the sky I still can’t explain.
Call it aliens, drones, or secret military experiments, but if you’re into UFO spotting, Fort Morgan is a known hotspot. Just a heads-up.
Foley, Alabama: Small-Town Pride and the Home of Julio Jones
If you’re looking for a charming small town with some unexpected gems, Foley, Alabama is worth a stop. Known for being the hometown of NFL star Julio Jones, it also packs in some interesting historical spots.
Magnolia Hotel: Haunted, Probably
The Magnolia Hotel has been around since the early 1900s and has racked up more than its fair share of ghost stories. Nestled in downtown Foley, this historic inn has seen generations of travelers, but according to locals, some guests never checked out.
Apparitions, flickering lights, unexplained whispers, the usual haunted hotel checklist applies here. Some claim to have seen shadowy figures roaming the halls, while others report hearing phantom footsteps in empty rooms. The energy? Undeniably eerie.
I haven’t personally stayed here yet (because I enjoy sleeping), but if you’re braver than I am, book a room and see if the Magnolia’s resident spirits introduce themselves. Just… maybe keep the light on.
Holmes Medical Museum: The Creepiest History Lesson in Town
Right in downtown Foley, the Holmes Medical Museum is housed in what used to be Baldwin County’s first hospital (1936-1958). It still has all its original medical equipment, which makes it part museum, part horror movie set.
Alligator Alley: Home of Captain Crunch
Heading back toward my hometown, you’ll pass through Summerdale, Alabama, home to Alligator Alley.
This gator sanctuary rescues and houses over 600 alligators, including its most famous resident, Captain Crunch—a 13-foot, 800-pound monster who once held the world record for strongest bite force ever recorded.
If you’ve never seen a prehistoric-looking reptile snap a whole chicken in half, I highly recommend it.
Southern Cuisine: Bad for the Body, Good for the Soul
I’m not going to lie—Alabama restaurants can be hit or miss. But if you know where to look, you’ll find some damn good Southern comfort food.
Just don’t come here counting calories.
This is the kind of place where bars serve seafood boils for free, gas stations dish out the best fried chicken, and fast-food reigns supreme.
That being said, here are a few solid recommendations:
1. The Fish House (Mobile, AL)
Known for: Fresh seafood with a casual, no-frills vibe.
What to eat: Get the grilled grouper or the crawfish étouffée—both are local favorites.
2. The Original Oyster House (Gulf Shores & Mobile, AL)
Known for: Some of the best oysters on the Gulf Coast, with a killer waterfront view.
What to eat: Go for a dozen raw or chargrilled oysters, then follow up with the Blackened Redfish Orleans.
3. Stacey’s Olde Tyme Soda Fountain (Foley, AL)
Known for: A 1920s-style soda shop serving old-school ice cream treats and burgers.
What to eat: Order the hand-spun milkshake or a banana split—you can’t go wrong.
4. Shrimp Basket (Multiple Locations – Gulf Shores, Foley, Mobile, etc.)
Known for: Affordable, no-frills seafood done right.
What to eat: The fried shrimp basket or the blackened shrimp tacos are always a solid choice.
5. Vandals Street Kitchen (Mobile, AL)
Known for: A funky mix of global street food with a Southern twist.
What to eat: Try the Korean BBQ tacos or the birria ramen—both are next-level.
6. Yummy Boba Ice Cream & Bakery (Mobile, AL)
Known for: A hidden gem for Asian-inspired desserts and boba tea in Mobile.
What to eat: Their banana boba is a local favorite, and people rave about the ube cheesecake—a rich, purple yam-based dessert that’s as delicious as it is Instagram-worthy.
7. Ivey’s Fine Dining (Robertsdale, AL)
Known for: A rare spot for fine dining in Baldwin County, with a focus on steaks and seafood.
What to eat: The filet mignon or the pecan-crusted snapper are the stars here.
8. Mama Lou’s (Robertsdale, AL)
Known for: Classic Southern meat-and-three style home cooking.
What to eat: Go for the fried chicken with collard greens and cornbread—this is Alabama on a plate.
9. Tacky Jack’s (Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, & Fort Morgan, AL)
Known for: A laid-back, waterfront seafood joint with strong drinks and great views.
What to eat: The Mexican Garbage Nachos (yes, that’s the real name) or the Stuffed Flounder—both are legendary.
10. Lulu’s (Gulf Shores, AL)
Known for: Jimmy Buffett’s sister’s waterfront restaurant with live music and island vibes.
What to eat: Get the Crab Melt Nachos or the Shrimp & Grits—you’ll thank me later.
That should keep you full for a while. Got any other local gems? Drop ‘em in the comments—unless you’re gatekeeping.
The Devil Went Down to Georgia… Then Left for the Dive Bars in Alabama
Now for my favorite countdown—the dive bars.
There’s just something about an Alabama dive bar that hits different. Maybe it’s the cheap drinks, the lack of pretense, or the fact that no matter where you go, you feel like part of the local crew.
These places aren’t just watering holes—they’re community hubs, confession booths, and sometimes even second homes.
Here are a few of my favorites:
1. Haley’s Bar (Mobile, AL)
Known for: One of the longest-running dive bars in Mobile, with live music and a laid-back, punk-rock vibe.
What to drink: A cheap PBR or a Jameson shot—it’s that kind of place.
2. Alley Cats (Silverhill, AL)
Known for: Previously known as The Chrome Horse and The Porch, this small-town dive has a country-meets-rock-and-roll feel with live music and a loyal local following.
What to drink: A whiskey sour or a cold draft beer—both pair well with the no-BS atmosphere.
3. Buddy’s (Robertsdale, AL)
Known for: A locals-only, no-frills, beer-and-a-shot joint where you’ll find everyone from bikers to retirees shooting the shit.
What to drink: A Miller High Life and a well whiskey shot—don’t overthink it.
4. Scuttlebutt Pub (Foley, AL)
Known for: A dive bar filled with locals, bikers, and the occasional lost tourist. It’s gritty, unpolished, and exactly what a dive bar should be.
What to drink: A rum punch that’ll sneak up on you or a classic Jack & Coke.
5. Top of the Bay (Daphne, AL)
Known for: A classic hole-in-the-wall with live music, pool tables, and a friendly crowd.
What to drink: Their house margaritas are surprisingly strong, but if you’re going full dive bar mode, grab a Budweiser.
6. Mudbugs (Gulf Shores, AL)
Known for: Cold beer, good food, and live music—especially during crawfish season.
What to drink: A pitcher of cheap beer or a Bloody Mary to kick off a beach day.
7. Flora-Bama (Perdido Key, FL / Orange Beach, AL)
Known for: The most famous dive bar on the Gulf Coast. Straddling the Alabama-Florida state line, this legendary honky-tonk has live music, Bushwackers, and an anything-goes vibe.
What to drink: A Bushwacker. It’s basically an alcoholic milkshake, and it’ll knock you on your ass if you’re not careful.
That’s the lineup—whether you’re looking for trouble, escaping it, or just need a cheap drink in good company. I dub these the “Must Visit” bars of Lower Alabama.
Got a favorite dive I missed? Drop it in the comments… or keep it a secret. I respect the hustle.
Last Call: Time to Get Lost
So, there you have it—a guide to mud, booze, and deep-fried everything along Alabama’s Gulf Coast.
Whether you’re burying your truck in a mud hole, chasing UFOs near Fort Morgan, or downing a Bushwacker at Flora-Bama, one thing’s for sure: adventure is out there—you just have to know where to look.
This isn’t the place for fancy five-star dining or curated Instagram moments.
This is the place where gas station fried chicken is better than any Michelin-star meal, where the best bars have sticky floors, and where history isn’t just a museum exhibit—it’s alive, messy, and still kicking.
So, grab a drink, hit the road, and for the love of all things Southern…
Get lost.
