10 THINGS YOU MUST DO IN FAIRHOPE, AL
By: Chris Andrews
There’s no shortage of things to do and places to see in Fairhope. Whether you’re a long time resident or visiting for the first time, here are 10 things you must do in Fairhope, Alabama!
1. Visit the Fairhope Pier
The Fairhope Municipal Pier is the iconic symbol of town. Generations have fished, walked, swam, and enjoyed the scenery from the unofficial “Town Square”. There’s a rose garden, picnic tables, walking trails, and even a beach!
2. Shopping
No trip to Fairhope is complete with a shopping trip! Dozens of boutiques, antique shops, and locally-owned stores line the sidewalks. There’s truly something for everyone when shopping in Downtown Fairhope.
3. Taste of Fairhope Food Tour
Arguably, no other city on the Gulf Coast has as many great restaurants in such a close proximity as Fairhope, Alabama. Taste of Fairhope is a three hour walking tour of food, drink, and history of the city while visiting some of the best restaurants in town.
4. Fairhope Museum of History
Fairhope was founded in 1894 by a group of individuals with a unique idea to create a utopian single tax colony. Learn all about the founders, what a Jubilee is, and see other exhibits to find out what makes Fairhope like no other place in the world. Admission is always free!
5. Live at Five Concert Series
Live at Five is a series of concerts hosted every spring and fall. Come out to hear regionally and sometimes nationally famous bands perform under the shady pines at Halstead Amphitheater. Every show begins at 5pm and is great for all ages.
6. See World-Class Art
Fairhope is home to world renowned artists. Several art galleries are located throughout town. The Eastern Shore Art Center features five galleries, four studios, and twenty-two instructors. Admission is free and open to the public.
7. Tolstoy Park, Henry Stuart House
Tucked away near an office complex is one of the most unusual historic homes you’ll ever see. Built in 1925, Henry Stuart built a small concrete hut after being diagnosed with tuberculosis. Come see this most unusual historic home for yourself.
8. Watch the Sunset
There’s almost no better place in the world to watch the sunset than in Fairhope, Alabama. Watch from the Fairhope Pier or any of the numerous sidewalks and benches along Scenic 98. Don’t miss a toast to the sunset every evening while dining at Sunset Pointe at Fly Creek Marina!
9. Relax with a Beverage
Take a break from the busy day with the iconic Fairhope Float at Mr. Gene’s Beans. Provision, known as “Fairhope’s Living Room”, is a great place to relax with a glass of wine or cup of coffee. Multiple coffee shops, pubs, and bars are located throughout town.
10. See a Storybook Castle
Yes, Fairhope has a real storybook castle that you can visit! Historical artist, Dean Mosher has created this beautiful masterpiece completely hidden in the middle of town. Be respectful of the private residence but feel free to take walk around and visit the picturesque castle.