Discover the thrill of the skies with an array of aerial adventures along the Alabama Gulf Coast. Whether you're gliding on a Ferris wheel, floating in a hot-air balloon, or soaring via parasail, these experiences offer a unique vantage point to appreciate the Gulf of Mexico's splendor and the pristine white beaches below. Elevate your vacation with these sky-high attractions and witness the serene beauty of the coast from an unforgettable perspective.
The Alabama Gulf Coast beckons adventurers to take to the skies and witness the region's grandeur from an elevated viewpoint. The azure waters and white sands gain a new dimension when seen from above, providing a breathtaking experience that ground-level exploration simply cannot match.
The Ferris wheel, an iconic American invention by George Ferris, debuted at the 1893 World's Fair in Chicago as a response to the Eiffel Tower. Today, The Wharf's Ferris wheel in Orange Beach stands as a modern marvel at 112 feet tall, making it the tallest in the Southeast. With 24 gondolas, including one that is handicap-accessible, it can lift up to 140 passengers towards the heavens. The wheel offers different charms by day and night:
For the best experience, indulge in both a sun-drenched ride and a starry evening spin.
Hot-air balloons, predating Ferris wheels by over two centuries, offer a serene form of flight. Modern ballooning, with its advanced safety features, is less than 50 years old. For those new to ballooning, tethered rides provide a secure ascent, while untethered flights offer a more free-form adventure guided by the wind. Passengers can marvel at the Gulf's vastness, spotting bays, rivers, and islands from a unique aerial perspective.
For the most exhilarating view, parasailing takes you up to 800 feet above the Gulf of Mexico. After a boat ride from the shore, adventurers are harnessed to a parasail and lifted by the wind, offering a tranquil yet thrilling experience. The clear waters below allow glimpses of marine life, adding to the magic of the flight.
An Alabama Gulf Coast getaway is always memorable, but adding an aerial adventure can amplify the experience. Let your spirit take flight by visiting The Wharf's Ferris wheel, embarking on a hot-air balloon voyage, or taking to the skies with parasailing. To learn more about vacation packages that include these high-flying activities, visit The Beach is Calling.
Interesting stats and facts about these aerial attractions are not commonly discussed. For instance, the Ferris wheel at The Wharf can illuminate with over 18,000 LED lights, creating a dazzling display visible for miles around. Parasailing, on the other hand, offers not just a thrill but also a peaceful solitude that is often unexpected; the quietude at 800 feet above the sea is a stark contrast to the bustling beach below. According to the Professional Association of Parasail Operators, over 3 to 5 million people in the United States enjoy parasailing annually, highlighting its popularity as an aerial adventure (P.A.P.O.).
Whether seeking the gentle rotation of a Ferris wheel, the silent drift of a hot-air balloon, or the soaring heights of a parasail, the Alabama Gulf Coast's aerial attractions provide an unparalleled way to experience the region's natural beauty.
Coastal Romance: A Guide to Autumn Beach Getaways for Couples
As the hustle of back-to-school season takes over, imagine instead a serene beach escape with your significant other. Picture yourselves strolling hand-in-hand along the shore, the autumn sun setting over tranquil blue waters. This is the perfect time to reignite the spark with a romantic getaway to the Alabama Gulf Coast, where the beauty of sandy beaches and stunning sunsets awaits.
A Celebration of Seafood and Sunshine: The National Shrimp Festival
The National Shrimp Festival in Gulf Shores, Alabama, is a delightful blend of sun, surf, and succulent seafood, making it an ideal destination for an autumn beach celebration. Ranked among the South's top 10 festivals by Southern Living readers and listed as one of the Southeast Tourism Society's top 20 events for October, this festival is a perfect transition from summer to fall. With the school year in full swing and schedules getting busier, seize the chance for one last memorable beach trip from October 8-11.
Discovering Indoor Delights on Alabama's Gulf Coast
When the skies turn gray and the rain begins to fall, Alabama's Gulf Coast transforms into a sanctuary of indoor entertainment. From Gulf Shores to Orange Beach, there's a treasure trove of activities that promise to keep you engaged and entertained, ensuring that your vacation moments are never wasted, even when the weather doesn't cooperate.
