Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) —  When football season arrives on Alabama's Gulf Coast, the fun extends far beyond the stadium. From waterfront seafood shacks to lively beachfront bars, Orange Beach and Gulf Shores are packed with great spots to gather with friends and family, catch every play on a big screen, and enjoy the food and drinks that make game day feel like a celebration. Whether you arrive by boat or cruise in by car, these local favorites have everything you need for a winning afternoon.

Flora-Bama Ole River Grill 

Located right on the water, this family-friendly Perdido Key favorite is a dream spot for sports fans. With an expansive open-air deck and plenty of big screens, you can easily keep your eyes on the game while enjoying scenic waterfront views. Their menu features incredible local seafood, burgers, poboys, and desserts. Plus, if you are spending the morning on the water, you can pull your boat right up to their beach, walk up, and grab a table and a cold drink.

The Hangout Gulf Shores 

Positioned right where Highway 59 meets the sand, this famous beachfront destination brings a massive dose of energy to game day. While the hourly foam parties and direct beach access keep the kids entertained, parents and groups can gather in the ample seating areas to watch the action. Fuel your game-day excitement with a classic Lifeguard Burger or one of their legendary Gulf Coast seafood boils, all while sipping handcrafted cocktails and enjoying a high-energy party crew.

Coastal Orange Beach 

For a more upscale yet laid-back waterfront experience, this spot sits directly on the sugar-white sands and offers beautiful beachfront views. Start your game-day festivities early with their beachfront breakfast, served daily from 8 AM, then move on to fresh local seafood and award-winning dishes for lunch and dinner. The open-air Beach Bar features tropical cocktails and live music, making it the perfect spot to unwind and talk strategy between quarters.

Tacky Jacks Orange Beach 

For more than 38 years, this beloved waterfront tavern has been a local institution, overlooking the Perdido Pass Bridge on Cotton Bayou and long voted the locals' favorite hangout on the Alabama Coast. With multiple outdoor decks, you might even spot dolphins leaping as you cheer on your team. Fuel up with the legendary Mexican Garbage Nachos and a Bushwacker — voted best on the Alabama Coast — or start game day early with a Farmer's Omelet and a Bloody Mary, served daily beginning at 7 AM. Best of all, you can arrive by land or sea, with easy parking and boat access right on site.

Tacky Jacks Gulf Shores 

Nestled among beautiful old oak trees directly on the Intracoastal Waterway at the curve on Canal Road, this Waterway Village gem offers the same beloved Tacky Jacks experience in a lush, laid-back setting. Head downstairs to Jacks Bar, an open-air waterfront bar featuring live musicians, a children's sand and play area, and sweeping waterway views perfect for catching every play. The menu covers all the bases, from award-winning omelets and hearty appetizers to fresh seafood, burgers, and the Famous Bushwacker cocktail. Take advantage of their daily Happy Hour from 2 PM to 6 PM, with 10 appetizers under $10 and drink specials to keep the game-day energy going.

Portside at The Wharf 

As a brand-new open-air addition to Main Street at The Wharf in Orange Beach, this vibrant entertainment space is perfect for a lively game day. Stroll through the local shops, grab a bite or a cold drink by the water at one of The Wharf's appealing bars, and enjoy the breezy coastal atmosphere. After the game, stick around to celebrate your team's victory with a ride on the iconic Ferris wheel or to experience the spectacular SPECTRA Laser Light Experience.

The Undertow 

For the ultimate local game-day experience, head straight to this Orange Beach favorite, featuring a massive big screen to catch all the football action. They offer fantastic game-day specials, including 20 wings for $18.50 and domestic beer buckets for $15. Pair that with their year-round, all-you-can-eat shrimp boils on Saturday and Sunday from 2 PM to 7 PM, live music starting at 10 PM, and a kitchen open until 2 AM to satisfy your late-night post-game cravings.

Luna's Eat & Drink 

This Orange Beach staple believes great food brings people together, making it an ideal spot for a game-day gathering. Their menu features fresh Gulf seafood and soulful Southern favorites, including jambalaya mac-n-cheese and firecracker shrimp. With a fun, relaxed atmosphere and a convenient Canal Road location, it's the perfect place to enjoy hospitality while catching a game. They also offer a daily happy hour from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., with specials on draft beer and appetizers to keep the game-day spirit going.

The Sloop 

Self-described as Gulf Shores' saltiest watering hole, this local pirate-themed dive bar is built for dedicated sports fans. They carry all the major sports packages, so you will not miss a single play, and they host some of the best live music in the area. Come hungry because their menu features homemade classics, including their famous Philly cheesesteak served on an authentic J.J. Cassone roll, cheesesteak egg rolls, and piled-high nachos.