Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) —  Summer has a charming way of making every day feel like a Saturday–and around here, that’s not a bad thing, it’s a way of life. Whether you're a lifelong local seeking something new or visiting our little slice of paradise for the week, there’s no shortage of reasons to get out and explore every day. From history and handmade art to mouthwatering meals, live music, local markets, sandy dreams, and one last adventure before the weekend slips away, here’s your guide to making the most of yet another unforgettable week on the Alabama Gulf Coast–at its finest. 

Monday, June 22nd- Most people know Foley as a place to grab lunch, do a bit of shopping, that one town with the train museum, or the one you pass through on the way to the beach – but this charming little corner of Alabama has a story that’s just as interesting as the coastline itself. If you enjoy uncovering local history, hearing quirky tales, or discovering how places got their start, make plans to visit the Foley Public Library this Monday at 10 AM for “From Railroads to Tall Tales: The Wonders of Early Foley.” This special journey is hosted by Ashley of Foley Walking Tours – another unique gathering where participants can learn more about Foley as they explore it. During this event, you’ll get to take an auditory stroll through time, discovering the town’s early days with fascinating stories, colorful characters, local legends, and a healthy dose of railroad history. You’ll meet the visionaries who helped put Foley on the map – including John B Foley himself – and find out how a small railroad community grew into one of the Gulf Coast’s favorite hometowns. Whether you're a lifelong local, a recent newcomer, or simply curious about the place you call home while visiting, you’ll leave with some fun facts, a few “I never knew that!” moments, and maybe even a new appreciation for the town you’ve driven through countless times. 

From Railroads to Tall Tales

Tuesday, June 23rd- Summer fun Tuesdays in Orange Beach have never been better, offering a range of options from outdoor adventures to artistry, live music, and more. This week continues the trend with an initial stop at Tacky Jack’s Summer of Fun workshops, featuring Art al Fresco–Pine Cone Flower Art. No age restriction applies; if you enjoy good company and learning something new by hand, this is for you! Here’s the deal: the art class is free with the purchase of a $25 gift card, which reserves your place with some of the best local and regional artists on the Alabama Gulf Coast. You can save the card as a gift for someone later or use it on the day of the event in the gift shop or for a quick, delicious lunch with a view after the class — it’s a win-win. During this three-hour class from 11 PM to 2 PM, you’ll learn how to repurpose a pinecone into a stunning pinecone flower. It’s a perfectly crafted summer afternoon to create your own art souvenir in this unique class. As always, be sure to arrive at least 15 minutes early and don’t forget to register online by purchasing the $25 gift card to reserve your spot in this skillfully taught, hands-on class. The sunshine magic continues with Sunset Sounds at Portside, returning this week. Located at The Wharf, this fully open green space features a stage doubling as a large screen, and on Tuesdays, weather permitting, it will be filled with local live tunes. Bring the whole family to this safe area where your eyes can always see your little ones. You’ll find shops, dinner options, and even two sweet shops. Kids and parents can visit the face painting station, hop aboard the Reptile Bus, play a game of cornhole or two, and try giant Jenga and chess. This event is free, with a few costs for shops around the green space and face painting, starting at 5:30 pm. If you stay until the end of the show at 8:30 pm, be sure to take a walk over to Main Street by the Big Marlin for the Spectra Laser Light Experience — also free, with shows at 8:30 pm, 9 pm, and 9:30 pm. Happy Summer! 

Tacky Jacks Summer of Fun

Sunset Sounds @ Portside

Wednesday, June 24th- Say hello to what’s been quoted as “home of the best BBQ at the beach” and much more with Brookman’s Smokehouse BBQ To Go! This prepared-daily-to-your-liking spot operates a little differently from your typical BBQs and fish houses. Instead of checking opening hours to dine in, you follow a weekly schedule for ordering and pickup: Monday to Friday, 3-5 PM. First, choose your feast, then your add-ons; next, schedule your pickup date and time, and finally, enjoy the best BBQ on the beach. Custom smoked and glazed, you can select from authentic smoked menu items like the Baby Back Ribs VIP LOCAL rack or the Big Daddy Pork Chop. In true coastal style, check out the Salmon-Seasame Teriyaki Glazed meal, or Salmon Bourbon Peppercorn Glazed. Can’t decide? No problem—go for the sampler. Chicken options are available, along with pre-made spreads such as Salmon Dip and Pimento Cheese Spread. Go big or go small—a feast or a dinner for two—Brookman’s Smokehouse has you covered, with deliciously flavored dishes smothered on all sides. Plan your beach week as a local or on holiday with ease and good taste by pre-ordering your dinner and see for yourself if “Best BBQ on the beach” is as true as it claims. 

Brookmans Smokehouse 

Thursday, June 25- The only thing better than a hot and greasy pizza is watching the craft behind perfectly shaped, rolled-out dough. Mamma Mia Pizzeria, located in downtown Foley, offers indoor seating, takeout, and an outdoor space that evokes old Italian charm. Inside, clear walls allow you to watch your delicious pies being spun, rolled, and topped with your favorite flavors before they go into the oven. The menu’s most-loved options include everything from Manicotti Florentine, Pasta and Meatballs, Chicken Parmesan, to specialty pies like the Suprema, La Mamma Mia, and even a nod to the coast with the Robinson Island pie. Sandwiches such as the Italiano and the Foley Cheese Steak are available, along with a lighter selection of six different salads, a kid-sized menu, and top-notch desserts like Tiramisu. Take a trip to downtown Foley and step into a world where Italy meets the coast, and everyone leaves shouting with a full belly and Grazie, already planning their next visit before they’ve even reached the second stop sign. Check out Mamma Mia Pizzeria this week in Foley—Prego. 

Friday, June 26th- Get into the vibe with the 'Good Vibes At The Beach” theme at Picnic Beach in Gulf Shores. Now open from 11 AM to 9 PM, Monday to Sunday — there’s no better time than now to pop in and enjoy the company of the crew. The food is excellent, rated five stars across the board. Check out feel-good shareable apps like Parmesan Bacon Truffle Fries, or opt for something healthier like the Tuna Dip. Feeling hungry enough to eat it all? Try the Ultimate Seafood Boil, packed with shells, tails, and all kinds of delights. The menu offers everything from Grouper to Buffalo Chicken baskets, Caribbean Bowls, Taco Bowls, and plenty of vegan options. Salads, handhelds, tacos, and wraps are also on the menu, and we can’t forget the beachy vibes of the Boba Bubbly Tea selection. Whatever you choose, you’ll feel right at home at the beach with Picnic B, just a short walk from where 59 ends and the fun begins at The Hangout with live music after dinner. Starting at 7 PM and running until 11 PM, enjoy free tunes with the I-10 Bound Band. Dance off your dinner and grab a cold drink to keep you going as you soak in the full beach lifestyle — where the sand is close, the salt is in the air, and you’re dancing all evening under the summer sky. Friday nights in Gulf Shores are perfect for creating summer memories you never even knew you were looking for. 

Picnic Beach- GS 

The Hangout Events and more-GS

Saturday, June 27th- Make this Saturday a day to remember. Start by visiting the Coastal Alabama Farmers and Fishermen's Market in Foley, open from 9 AM to 2 PM. Here, you’ll find all the delicious essentials for a healthy, local, and fresh lunch or dinner. Discover local produce, seafood caught by genuine local fishermen, various tasty baked goods for dessert or Sunday morning snacks, and some handcrafted crafts to browse. This local fresh market embodies the true meaning of living that doubly cherished life of “the best of both worlds” that a coastal town and its neighbors can offer. You'll see both land and sea brought to life by those who sowed it or reeled it in, then packaged it just for you. Next, you’ll want to call to plan ahead earlier in the week for a taste of the beach like never before. You may have seen children with their buckets and shovels running freely on the sand, building castles, moats, or even a step, with artists participating in spectacular sand-sculpting competitions on TV or in magazines. But did you know you, too, can craft an award-winning sand masterpiece right here on the Alabama Gulf Coast? That’s right — there's a whole University dedicated to teaching you how to do the incredible with Sand Castle Sculpting Classes, where you’ll learn the secrets of the trade and create your very own stunning sand sculpture at the Gulf State Park Pavilion in Gulf Shores. All equipment is provided; all you need to do is call ahead to reserve your spot, drop off your healthy finds from the market on the way, and meet your sculpting coach there. Make it a Saturday on the coast, you’ll be talking about all year — and best of all, a fresh dinner will be waiting for you when you get home. 

Coastal Alabama's Farmers and Fishermen’s Market 

Sandcastle University-Book NOW

Sunday, June 28th- You’ve spent the week soaking up the sunshine, discovering hidden gems, and creating memories along the Alabama Gulf Coast–but before you pack up and head home, why not squeeze in one last adventure? Whether you’re visiting or a local wanting to cruise the island in style, explore back roads with the roof down, hit the water with friends, or simply make your beach day a little easier, Gulf Coast Rental Co. has you covered. Choose from colorful jeeps, Polaris Slingshots, luxury golf carts, pontoon boat rentals, beach gear, and convenient beach packages delivered right to your door. It’s one of those local businesses that helps ease the stress of holiday or summer residents’ “what do we do next with the kids” worries and lets you focus on creating memories instead of planning every detail. After all, the best souvenirs aren’t things—they’re the stories you’ll be sharing long after the sunscreen has worn off. So…where will your last, first, or first of many Gulf Coast adventures take you? 

Gulf Coast Rental Co. 

Until next week… keep exploring, shopping locals, and discovering the hidden gems that make the Alabama Gulf Coast an incredible place to call home – or your favorite place to visit.