Photo: Karen Emery
Photo: Peter Di Sessa
Photo: Scot Andrews
The Wharf
★4.5(9,806 reviews)$Entertainment
🕑 3 to 4 hours👶 Best for all ages. Toddlers and preschoolers love watching the boats and playing mini golf, while tweens and teens enjoy the shopping, arcade games, and live performances at the amphitheater. The variety of activities ensures every age group stays entertained.🧡 Saved by 250+ families
About
The Wharf in Orange Beach is a vibrant waterfront entertainment complex that offers families a perfect blend of dining, shopping, and fun activities all in one scenic location. With mini golf, a beautiful boardwalk overlooking the marina, live entertainment, and a variety of family-friendly restaurants, this destination provides something for everyone in the family to enjoy without having to drive all over town.
Highlights
- ✓Mini golf course perfect for families with kids of various ages
- ✓Scenic boardwalk with marina views and boat watching opportunities
- ✓Evening fountain and light shows that mesmerize young children
- ✓Variety of restaurants with kid-friendly menus and outdoor seating
- ✓Free live entertainment and concerts at the amphitheater throughout the year
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive in the late afternoon to enjoy mini golf before it gets crowded, then stay for dinner and the evening fountain show that kids absolutely love.
- 2.Park in the free public lots on the north side of the complex for easiest access with strollers and young children.
- 3.Check the amphitheater schedule before visiting, as free concerts and special events happen regularly, especially during summer months.
- 4.Bring quarters for the carousel and arcade games, and allow time for kids to watch the boats come in and out of the marina.
- 5.Visit on weekday mornings for a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds, perfect for families with young children who need space to explore.
Best Time to Visit
Weekday late afternoons (4:00 to 7:00 PM) offer the best experience with cooler temperatures, fewer crowds than weekends, and the ability to catch the sunset over the water. Spring and fall provide the most comfortable weather for outdoor strolling with kids.
What to Know
Parking is free and plentiful, and the entire complex is stroller-friendly with wide boardwalks. Dining prices vary by restaurant but expect moderate family meal costs, and there are casual options alongside sit-down restaurants to suit different budgets and picky eaters.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round with peak activity during summer months when special events, festivals, and nightly entertainment are most frequent. Holiday events including special light displays occur during the winter season, making it a magical visit in December.
Nearby Eats
The Wharf has numerous on-site restaurants including The Gulf and Villaggio Grille that welcome families, so you won't need to leave the complex for meals.
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