Mobile
Country: USA · Region: Alabama · Currency: US Dollar
Mobile is a historic port city in Alabama with strong southern culture, home to the oldest Mardi Gras celebration in the United States. The diverse city offers museums, historic architecture, and easy access to Gulf Coast attractions.
Top sights
Colonial Fort Condé, Battleship Memorial Park, Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, Bellingrath Gardens, GulfQuest National Maritime Museum, Bragg-Mitchell Mansion
Things to do
- Battleship Memorial Park
- Tour the World War II battleship USS Alabama and submarine USS Drum with military aircraft and hardware exhibits.
- Colonial Fort Condé
- Historic fort that served as welcome center for Mobile, included with History Museum of Mobile admission.
- Bellingrath Gardens
- 65-acre garden estate open year-round featuring the 2004 Top Public Rose Garden in the United States.
- Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center
- Regional science center with exhibits for all ages and the only Domed IMAX Theater on the Gulf Coast.
Beaches
- Dauphin Island
- Sandy beaches 23 miles south of Mobile with historic Fort Gaines, fishing pier, and bird-watching sites.
Where to eat
- Wintzell's Oyster House
- Mobile institution since 1938 located in historic downtown on Dauphin Street.
- Original Oyster House
- Oyster restaurant overlooking Mobile Bay near Battleship Memorial Park.
Bars and nightlife
- O'Daly's Irish Pub
- Irish pub located on Dauphin Street in historic downtown Mobile.
Getting around
Use the Wave Transit System public buses ($1.25 per ride) or the MODA electric trolley ($0.50) for downtown exploration; historic downtown is also easily walkable.
What to eat
Try local oyster houses like Wintzell's Oyster House (since 1938) or Original Oyster House overlooking Mobile Bay; barbecue and burgers are also popular local fare.
Tips
Download Wave Transit routes in advance as bus service is limited (generally one per hour, no Sunday service), and consider a walking tour of historic downtown including Dauphin Street.
Best for
History, Mardi Gras, Architecture