10 FREE THINGS TO DO IN MOBILE
There’s never a shortage of things to do in Mobile but here’s a list of 10 FREE things to do in Mobile!
1. Cooper Riverside Park
Mobile was founded because of the river and we have thrived for centuries because of the river. Take a walk down Cooper Riverside Park to enjoy the views, see the barges and the activity of shipbuilding across the river at Austal.
2. “Walkin’ Up Dauphin St.”
An old phrase to express perfection was used throughout the state of Alabama at the beginning of the 20th century, “Like walkin’ up Dauphin St.” Take a walk up Dauphin St. to Bienville or Cathedral Square, window shop at the Urban Emporium or Bienville Souvenir and Gifts.
3. Mobile’s Art Scene
Mobile is home to a thriving arts scene and several popular art galleries. The Mobile Arts Council has a public gallery. Don’t forget to pick up their map to find all the beautiful murals in town. Lupercalia Art Society is great stop to view Mobile’s history through visual arts. They also have a speakeasy filled with art that leads to an underground tunnel!
4. Tour the Historic Battle House Hotel
The Battle House Hotel is among the most historic and luxurious hotels in Alabama. The lobby features a domed skylight, a signature of the hotel since it opened in 1908. Portraits feature paintings of King Louis XIV, George Washington and George III. The second floor features one of the coolest secrets in Mobile, a whispering arch wall. The Battle House also has its share of hauntings!
5. See the Architecture of our Historic Districts
We are fortunate to have over 600 blocks of historic districts in Mobile. See the beautiful Greek Revival Oakleigh mansion in the Oakleigh Historic District. Drive by the 1860’s Italianate style Richards DAR House in the DeTonti Square district to admire the magnificent ironwork . Gorgeous historic homes in Church Street East, Old Dauphin Way, Ashland Place, and Leinkauf are sure to catch your eye.
6. Get Outside!
Mobile’s beauty is certainly not found inside any four walls. Take a walk on the pier overlooking Mobile Bay at Arlington Park. Feed the ducks and geese at Langan Park. Launch the canoe or kayak at McNally Park.
7. Visit Mobile’s Cemeteries
A city over 300 years old, Mobile has several hauntings around town especially at its historic cemeteries. Church Street Graveyard is home to some of Mobile’s oldest residents, many of them buried after the Yellow Fever outbreak of 1819. Magnolia Cemetery covers 120 acres and is home to over 80,000 graves. A National Cemetery attatched is home to over 6,000 veterans from the War of 1812 to Operation Iraqi Freedom.
8. ArtWalk
Every 2nd Friday of the month, the streets of Downtown Mobile comes alive with vendors, artists, and musicians for ArtWalk. ArtWalk features a different monthly theme to fit the season.
9. Visit Mobile’s Historic Churches
Mobile is home to many historic churches. Government Street Presbyterian is a National Historic Landmark because of its exquisite example of Greek Revival Architecture. The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Christ Church Cathedral and The Steeple (St. Francis Methodist Church) are all beautiful 19th century churches, many with their doors open daily.
10. Market in the Park
Every Saturday morning during the summer beginning at 7:30am, head out to Cathedral Square for Market in the Park. Area farmers, ranchers and business owners are set up to sell the freshest vegetables and produce to you.