Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — Local officials across our area are preparing for an incoming blast of arctic air expected to grip the Gulf Coast through the weekend. Many outdoor facilities in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Gulf State Park, and Foley will close temporarily as temperatures fall below freezing. The closures aim to protect water systems and keep visitors safe until conditions improve.

Coastal Resources in Orange Beach will shut off all outdoor public restrooms in the city; the beaches, Waterfront Park/Kids Park, and the Backcountry Trail will be closed later this afternoon and will reopen on Monday, once the weather warms. Officials encourage residents and visitors to plan ahead and be prepared if they intend to be outdoors over the weekend.

At Gulf State Park, the Fishing and Educational Pier will close at 5 p.m. on Friday, January 30, 2026, and is expected to reopen on Monday, February 2. The park’s management announced that the outdoor bathrooms at Lake Shelby will also remain closed during the cold spell. The closures are a precaution to prevent damage from freezing temperatures and icy conditions.

In nearby Gulf Shores, city officials announced all bathhouses, showers, and public restrooms at public beaches, Mo’s Landing, and Meyer Park will close until weather conditions improve. “We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding,” city leaders stated. They also reminded residents that the city will notify the public once facilities reopen.

In Foley, the cold front is prompting additional closures. The Foley Railroad Museum, including the Event Train and Model Train Exhibit, will close Saturday, January 31, due to the freezing forecast. The National Weather Service in Mobile has issued an Extreme Cold Watch for us from Friday, January 30, through Sunday, February 1.

The museum plans to reopen Monday, February 2, and will resume normal hours from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Saturday. The Model Train Exhibit operates Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Event Train usually offers rides around Heritage Park on most Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., unless other events are scheduled.

Due to cold weather, the Gumbo and Alabama Slammer Festival, originally scheduled for January 31 and February 1, has been rescheduled to February 7 and 8. The Foley Railroad Museum, located at 125 E. Laurel Avenue, will offer free admission to all attractions once normal operations resume.