Nestled along the eastern gulf coast bluffs of Mobile Bay is one of the coolest small towns in the South: Fairhope, Alabama; it's a relaxing escape from the worries and chaos of busy city life for visitors and locals alike! 

Fairhope, Alabama, is a quaint haven by the bay brimming with Southern charm, specialty shops, vibrant arts, and breathtaking waterfront views—beckoning history buffs, nature enthusiasts, and art lovers traveling from near and far!

Whether you’re a tourist ready for a nautical adventure, you need a relaxing stop on your way to Gulf Shores, or you live nearby and need to know, "What is there to do in Fairhope, AL?" don't hassle with an outsider's travel guide. Here at The Fairhope Store, we know this town by the Gulf Coast very well and can promise plenty of our picks will suit your fancy.

• In this guide, we'll explore 20 must-see attractions in Fairhope, Alabama, that we promise will enchant you with their diverse appeal.
• From tranquil, casual strolls through picturesque parks and adventures in local museums to indulging in Gulf Coast cuisine, Fairhope provides an array of activities that capture the essence of its rich heritage, welcoming community, and South Alabama.

Visit the Fairhope Municipal Pier

No trip to Fairhope is complete without a visit to the infamous Fairhope Municipal Pier! If you ask a local, "What is there to do in Fairhope, Alabama?" our first answer is, "Visit the Fairhope pier!"

First built in 1895 and still gracefully extending from Fairhope Avenue into beautiful Mobile Bay to this day, this beloved landmark is familiar to Fairhope residents and recurring visitors as the “town square.” It’s not just a fishing pier but a well-maintained park with a glittering fountain and a clean, sandy beach where the community and visiting families can relax and bond.

Often, strolls upon this Fairhope, Alabama attraction are taken right before dinner, at sunset, when the sparkling bay offers the most stunning panoramic views. However, more active local families and tourists can coordinate their visit to the Fairhope Municipal Pier whenever they like for fishing or watching the birds and boats as they fly and float by.

Shop at Downtown Fairhope Boutiques

Nothing highlights our small town’s eclectic charm, expressive creativity, and innovation quite like our local boutiques. When you take a walk through downtown Fairhope, you’ll encounter a row of shining storefronts with stylish clothing, high-quality and intricately handcrafted jewelry, elegant yet cozy (much like Fairhope itself) home decor, and more one-of-a-kind slow-made artisanal gifts.

Whether you're shopping at one of the many small businesses in downtown Fairhope or with us at the Fairhope Store down by the Pier, all of the boutiques in Fairhope have distinct personalities that reflect the vibrant, artistic community we’re known for.

We may be biased, but we think the best spot to shop in Fairhope for a local souvenir is The Fairhope Store. Here, we carry stylish, comfortable clothing that reflects Fairhope's coastal vibes, welcoming community, local pride, and creative spirit wherever you go!

We love seeing our amazing customers, friends, and family proudly sporting our logo around the Mobile Bay area on clothing, accessories, and more. Our custom pier-themed Fairhope shirts have even become a staple in the closets of tourists and residents alike for three significant reasons:

1. The material is 100% pre-shrunk cotton comfort wash. Everyone loves the feel of this breathable, lightweight, and super-soft fabric!
2. We carry multiple styles (sweatshirts, long-sleeve tees, and short-sleeve tees) in flattering, calming colors and feature beach-inspired designs.
3. Most of our shirts come in multiple unisex sizes so that every customer can enjoy a relaxed fit.

Whether searching for a memorable souvenir or the perfect gift, our local boutiques in Fairhope give customers a personal, delightful retail experience while supporting our friendly local small business owners. By the way, most retail businesses in Fairhope are closed on Sundays, so shop on Monday through Saturday!

Pay a Visit to the Fairhope Museum of History

Immerse yourself in Fairhope's rich past with a visit to our Museum of History! Housed in the town’s original 1928 Spanish Mission-style city hall building on Fairhope Avenue, this museum glimpses the area’s uniquely captivating past.

This classic among Fairhope, AL attractions educates visitors with exhibits on our town’s distinct background as a “utopian single-tax colony,” how we have been blossoming over the decades, and defining our cultural heritage.

Attend Live at Five

Do you need help figuring out fun and family-friendly activities on a Friday night in downtown Fairhope, Alabama? If you ask a local, they'll undoubtedly suggest Live at Five!

Live at Five is a popular outdoor concert series in the heart of downtown. We host this lively celebration on select Fridays throughout the year, allowing attendees to connect with our vibrant Fairhope community, spirited visionaries, and unique culture. This festive gathering buzzes with music, chatter, laughter, and dancing as the stage showcases a diverse lineup of gifted local and regional musicians who play jazz, blues, rock, country, and everything in between!

The atmosphere is electric as families, friends, and visitors rest on picnic blankets and outdoor seating, taking in the sweet melodies of the free performances. We also enhance the experience by inviting marvelous local food vendors and crafters to set up booths and offer delicious treats and unique crafts; there's nothing like free entertainment with food trucks and a little retail therapy to support local businesses!

Explore the Fairhope French Quarter

To truly immerse yourself in Fairhope's artistic and cultural heartbeat, have your Sunday brunch in the French Quarter—a whimsical nook of our cozy coastal town that reflects our take on the awe-inspiring essence of New Orleans culture.

Cradled in the heart of downtown, Fairhope’s French Quarter is an energetic epicenter of retro shops, niche art galleries, and comfy quaint cafes. While leisurely wandering through our picturesque courtyards and narrow alleyways, you’ll find a trove of treasures, from handmade crafts and boutique clothing to exquisite art and antiques.

The indulgently calming atmosphere is flush with the soothing songs of street musicians and coaxing aromas wafting from nearby eateries. Whether you’re savoring a freshly baked pastry at a charming coffee shop, browsing through eclectic shops for a one-of-a-kind find, or simply enjoying the ambiance, this attraction offers a unique and memorable experience.

Admire the Local Art

To genuinely grasp and connect with Fairhope’s creative spirit, visit the Eastern Shore Art Center! The ESAC is home to five galleries and employs twenty-two instructors for its four studios—and all nine of these expressive spaces offer free admission.

You can also get a taste of our town’s artistic passions by taking a simple walk through downtown to gaze at the enchanting mosaics, murals, and sculptures all across the way.

Try the Cuisine

Although we love seeing visitors take an original, creative approach to exploring Fairhope's fodder at our best restaurants like Tamara's Downtown and Thyme on Section, the city curates a one-of-a-kind dinner experience known as the "Taste of Fairhope Food Tour" to guarantee a satisfying, flavorful experience.

This guided food tour is a fantastic way to delight your taste buds at our town's best eateries, which won't confine you to a single good meal; you'll enjoy generously portioned "samples" of a variety of dishes from local chefs—everything from Alabama classics to innovative cuisine—while learning about Fairhope's food culture and history. It's an unforgettable, delectable journey!

Visit a Fairy Tale Castle

Did you know that Fairhope has a Storybook Castle? Built in 1983 by local artist Dean Mosher, Fairhope’s enchanting little castle is a whimsical structure featuring unique architectural elements and precious ornamental details you would only expect to find in the pages of a fantasy children's book. Visitors can admire the magnificence of this mystical Fairhope attraction from the outside.

Play at the Park

Whether you need a free activity for your kids while you're here in Fairhope or a nature lover, you can always enjoy fun-filled days outdoors at any of our parks!

Our public outdoor park facilities are clean, walkable, routinely landscaped, and picturesque—all of which parents can appreciate. Enjoy a picnic amidst astonishing natural scenes or stroll through scenic trails while you let the kiddos tire out on playgrounds!

As the perfect backdrop for outdoor recreation and respite after a busy day, Fairhope's beautiful parks will leave you and your crew relaxed and ready for a peaceful dinner.

Catch a Sunset Over Mobile Bay

As mentioned above, many tourists and residents visit the Fairhope Municipal Pier to watch the sunset over Mobile Bay. However, you don't have to go to the pier to take in the Bay sunset's burnt orange, hot pink, and soft violet glow reflecting on the water. Any spot along the waterfront can serve as the "best seat in the house."

Take Part in a Jubilee

Whenever you visit the Fairhope Museum of History, you'll learn about a rare natural phenomenon unique to the Bay—jubilees. In short, a jubilee is a spectacular event where masses of fish, shrimp, and crabs wash ashore in a frenzy. Per tradition, residents celebrate the jubilee phenomenon by scooping up the bounty, creating an unforgettable experience enmeshed with the rhythms of nature.

To witness a Mobile Bay jubilee and join in on traditions with the locals, visit Fairhope in the summer and take an early morning trip down to the upper banks of the eastern shore just before dawn.

Tour a Tea Plantation

Embark on a sensory journey at Fairhope Tea Plantation, a family farm with many lush fields of tea shrubbery and home to one of our nation's oldest tea factories!

Every day, beginning at one o'clock in the afternoon, Donnie Barrett (the owner, founder, and leading plantation farmer) will give small groups (three people or less) an insightful tour of their tea cultivation and production facilities for $20 per guest. During the tour, guests will sip a fresh cup of the plantation's notoriously delicious green or black tea.

You can find contact info for making a tour appointment and learn more on the plantation's website.

Attend a First Friday Art Walk

If you're planning a trip to Fairhope, try to be here on the first Friday of that month to stroll the First Friday Art Walk—where our city's vibrant artistic personality comes to life! The Friday Art Walk is a compelling evening of gallery showcases, conversation, live music, and complimentary refreshments.

Visit the Arts and Crafts Festival

Celebrate the creativity and craftsmanship that make Fairhope a special place in South Alabama at the well-known Craft Festival! Held annually, this event showcases the fruits of labor from 200+ talented international artists in every medium you can imagine—paintings, pottery, handmade jewelry, glasswork, photography, sculptures, and more!

This is not any old Arts Festival; it's a resonant celebration of authentic artistry and community spirit. While you browse through art-adorned booths and listen to the live music, you can also try the delicious food from local vendors!

Go Antiquing

Whether you’re a seasoned collector or browsing, antiquing in downtown Fairhope offers a nostalgic voyage through time. From vintage home decor and retro furniture to timeless collectibles and curious trinkets, each antique shop holds a unique selection of gems waiting for you to unearth them.

Take a Walk on the Beach

Indulge in the simple pleasure of a day at North Beach Park in Fairhope, where you can get some of the best views in Mobile Bay! This natural beauty near the Municipal Pier features all of this within walking distance:

• A clean, white sandy beach,
• Smoothly paved walking trail
• Gorgeous pavilions
• A duck pond, benches,
• And playground equipment for the kids!

Go to the Fairhope Film Festival

Experience the magic of cinema at the annual Fairhope Film Festival, a weekend showcase of award-winning independent films from around the world. The films feature thought-provoking narratives, captivating documentaries, and inspiring stories that challenge and entertain.

The Fairhope Film Festival offers a unique cinematic experience for movie lovers of all ages. Festival screenings are at historic theaters and intimate venues throughout downtown Fairhope, and there are sometimes meet-and-greets with the casts and crews.

Go on a Walking Tour

Did you know that we offer multiple walking tours so travelers can discover our rich history and architectural beauty? We’ll share old and new stories about Fairhope as we guide you on a leisurely trek through our charming neighborhoods, historic landmarks, and the sites of obscure local legends.

Meet Famous Writers & Drink Coffee

Fairhope's serene, inspiring, and culture-rich small-town Alabama atmosphere has long been a retreat for literary talent, from best-selling novelists to acclaimed poets.

We recommend exploring Page & Palette, an independent bookstore that has graced our city for 50+ years and counting. The bookstore is also home to a cozy coffee shop, Latte Da, and a wine bar, The Book Cellar.

Page and Pallete in the downtown district is a must-visit destination, often attracting literary creatives for the first time and brings them back. The coffee + book shop frequently hosts book signings and readings for famous authors from near and far! During these celebrations of written masterpieces and the creative minds behind them, customers can engage with authors, discuss their work, and gain insights into their creative process.

Take an Art Class

Unleash your creativity and explore your artistic talents with an art class at the Eastern Shore Art Center in Fairhope. Whether you’re a beginner or a professional artist, the Art Center and its studios offer a variety of classes and workshops in painting, pottery, sculpture, and more.

Rent Bikes from The Fairhope Store

As a bonus recommendation: Rent a bike here at The Fairhope Store and take the scenic route along the nature trails to any of the 20 unique Fairhope attractions in this blog!