13 Things To Do In Foley For Every Kind Of Traveler

Foley, Alabama, might not make flashy headlines, but that’s exactly why people love it. Tucked just 10 miles north of the Gulf Shores beaches, this small town offers a rare blend of laid-back Southern charm, family-friendly attractions, and a little bit of weird (in the best possible way). It’s a place where you can spend your morning kayaking through a nature preserve, your afternoon catching a flying dinner roll, and your evening with your toes in the sand—without ever feeling rushed.

Whether you're road-tripping along the Gulf Coast, planning a low-key beach escape, or just curious about Alabama beyond the interstate, Foley gives you reasons to stay longer than you planned. With its walkable downtown, welcoming locals, and surprisingly diverse lineup of things to do, it’s a town that invites you to slow down, look around, and soak in the simple things done right.

From outdoor adventures and quirky museums to historic homes and disc golf under rose-covered arches, here are 13 of the best things to do in Foley like a local.

1. Visit the Foley Railroad Museum

📍 Location: 125 E Laurel Ave, Foley, AL 36535

Step inside the Foley Railroad Museum and you're stepping into the story of a town built by the rails. Set in the beautifully restored Louisville & Nashville depot, this museum brings Foley’s early 20th-century roots to life with original artifacts, black-and-white photos, and a timeline that shows just how crucial the railroad was to shaping the Gulf Coast.

The star attraction? A massive, meticulously detailed model train exhibit that stretches across an entire room. With tiny towns, working lights, tunnels, and bridges, it’s easy to lose track of time as you follow the trains through their miniature world. Kids light up when the engines start moving—and honestly, so do most adults. It’s both nostalgic and impressive, and you don’t have to be a train nerd to enjoy it.

Because it’s located right in downtown Foley, it’s easy to pair this stop with lunch, shopping, or a walk through Heritage Park. The museum is small, friendly, and run by volunteers who are genuinely passionate about preserving Foley’s story. It’s one of those places that doesn’t try too hard—and ends up being unforgettable.

2. Explore the Graham Creek Nature Preserve

📍 Location: 23030 Wolf Bay Dr, Foley, AL 36535

If you need a break from screens, crowds, or just life in general, Graham Creek Nature Preserve delivers. This sprawling outdoor escape spans more than 500 acres of untouched Gulf Coast wilderness, with boardwalks, wooded trails, wetlands, and wildflower fields. Whether you’re hiking, biking, birding, or just wandering, the peace out here is almost immediate.

The preserve is home to rare plants, including endangered pitcher plants you won’t find just anywhere, and it’s a prime spot for wildlife sightings. Egrets, turtles, deer, and even the occasional alligator call these woods and waters home. There’s also a kayak launch that lets you explore the creek itself—ideal for paddlers looking for a calm and scenic route.

Beyond the trails, Graham Creek has archery ranges, a disc golf course, and a nature-themed playground that kids absolutely love. It’s one of those places where every visit feels different depending on the season, time of day, or trail you choose. And best of all? It’s quiet, free, and still feels like a bit of a local secret.

3. Shop at Tanger Outlets

📍 Location: 2601 S McKenzie St, Foley, AL 36535

Tanger Outlets isn’t just a quick shopping stop—it’s a full-blown retail experience. Whether you’re looking for athletic gear, high-end handbags, or back-to-school deals, this is where locals and vacationers alike come to score name-brand merchandise without blowing the budget. With over 120 stores, it’s easy to turn “I just need one thing” into a full afternoon.

But it’s not all about shopping bags and sale racks. The layout is open-air and walkable, with fountains, shaded seating areas, and a surprisingly solid food court that makes it easy to take breaks between stores. Parents will appreciate the small play area to give kids a reset, and bargain hunters can download the Tanger app for extra digital coupons.

It’s also located right on Foley’s main drag, making it convenient to pair with nearby attractions like OWA, the Railroad Museum, or lunch downtown. Just be warned—weekends can get busy, especially during peak vacation season. For quieter browsing and shorter lines, weekdays are your best bet.

4. Enjoy OWA Parks & Resort

📍 Location: 1501 S OWA Blvd, Foley, AL 36535

OWA is where Foley lets loose. Equal parts amusement park, entertainment district, and family resort, this massive complex is the kind of place you could spend an entire day—and still not see it all. The park features classic carnival rides, arcade games, roller coasters (hello, Rollin’ Thunder), and plenty of family-friendly attractions like the Flying Carousel and Wacky Waters splash zones.

Beyond the rides, OWA’s Downtown area is packed with shops, dining spots, and live entertainment. Catch a magic show, grab dinner on the lakefront, or treat yourself to handcrafted donuts and cocktails—yes, in the same trip. The vibe strikes a rare balance: kid-friendly and date-night worthy, all in one place.

Because it’s just minutes from Gulf Shores, OWA makes an easy combo with a beach day or nearby sightseeing. It’s also a lifesaver on rainy beach days thanks to the indoor arcade and entertainment venues. Whether you’re chasing adrenaline or churros, OWA makes it easy to say “just one more ride.

5. Relax at the Foley Beach Express

📍 Location: Access via Foley Beach Expressway, Foley, AL

Let’s be clear—the Foley Beach Express isn’t an “attraction” in the traditional sense. You’re not stopping for photos or buying souvenirs. But if you’re headed to Gulf Shores or Orange Beach, this toll road is the move. It cuts right through the countryside with fewer lights, less traffic, and better views than the often-congested Highway 59.

It’s also one of those drives that feels surprisingly peaceful. As you cruise past farmland, pine forests, and marshy stretches, there’s a sense of space and calm that makes it more than just a shortcut—it becomes part of the experience. Throw on your road trip playlist, roll down the windows, and let the beach anticipation build.

Best of all, it gets you to the Gulf Coast faster—meaning more time with your toes in the sand and less time tapping the steering wheel in bumper-to-bumper traffic. For anyone coming in from Foley or beyond, this expressway is the unsung hero of the trip.

6. Discover Foley's Downtown and Heritage Park

📍 Location: Downtown Foley, centered around Heritage Park (E Laurel Ave)

If Foley has a heart, it beats in downtown. Anchored by Heritage Park, this walkable district is a laid-back blend of small-town charm and community pride. You’ll find antique shops, local boutiques, cozy cafés, and friendly faces behind every counter. It’s the kind of place where shop owners ask where you’re from—and genuinely care about the answer.

Heritage Park itself is more than green space. It’s home to concerts, festivals, and an adorable model train that runs through the pavilion on select days. Families spread out on picnic blankets, kids chase bubbles and birds, and local musicians provide the soundtrack on sunny afternoons. It’s casual, it’s welcoming, and it captures the slower pace that makes Foley so inviting.

Make time to explore on foot—grab a pastry, pop into the Foley Art Center, or sit by the fountain and watch the world move at half speed. Whether you’re here for a festival or just wandering, downtown Foley feels like a small Southern town done right.

7. Fish or Stroll at the Graham Creek Interpretive Pier

📍 Location: 23030 Wolf Bay Dr, Foley, AL 36535
Fun Fact: This pier is part of over 500 acres of protected land and serves as a quiet spot for fishing, birdwatching, and launching kayaks directly into Wolf Bay.

Tucked away off the main road, the Graham Creek Interpretive Pier offers a completely different kind of Foley experience—one that trades thrill rides and shopping for still water, rustling reeds, and the occasional splash of a mullet jumping in the distance. It’s the kind of place where time slows down, and you don’t need an itinerary—just a little curiosity and maybe a fishing pole.

The pier stretches over the creek into brackish water that feeds into Wolf Bay, and it’s a favorite among local anglers and birdwatchers alike. Early mornings bring herons and egrets swooping in for breakfast, while sunset turns the sky into a watercolor wash of gold and violet. Benches along the pier make it easy to sit, reflect, or share a quiet moment with someone you love.

What makes this spot especially meaningful is its connection to the larger Graham Creek Nature Preserve. You can start your day hiking or kayaking the preserve's trails and channels, then wind down here with a book, a snack, or just your thoughts. It’s peaceful, uncrowded, and an easy reminder of why slowing down is sometimes the best part of travel.

Important Information:

• Hours: Open daily from dawn to dusk
• Parking: Free on-site parking available
• Amenities: Fishing pier, kayak launch, benches, trash bins
• Accessibility: The pier is wheelchair-accessible
• Pets: Allowed on leash
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning for bird activity; late afternoon for sunset views
• Nearby: Connected to Graham Creek Nature Preserve’s trails and outdoor classroom

8. Eat Like a Local at Lambert’s Café (“Home of Throwed Rolls”)

📍 Location: 2981 S McKenzie St, Foley, AL 36535
Fun Fact: Lambert’s is famous for their “throwed rolls”—fresh-baked, hot dinner rolls that servers literally toss across the dining room to guests.

You’ll probably hear Lambert’s Café before you even walk through the door. Laughter, clapping, and the unmistakable call of “Hot rolls!” ring through the air as servers toss bread like footballs across packed tables. It’s loud, it’s playful, and it’s unlike any dining experience you’ve had before. And trust us—it’s not just a gimmick. The food holds up.

Lambert’s serves massive Southern-style plates—think country-fried steak, fried catfish, pot roast, and generous sides. But the real fun? The “pass arounds,” like fried okra, black-eyed peas, and macaroni and tomatoes, brought to your table by servers making their rounds. It feels more like a family reunion than a restaurant, in all the right ways.

It’s popular for a reason, so expect a wait (especially during summer weekends). But there’s plenty to look at while you wait—antique tractors, vintage signs, and people trying to catch bread midair. Come hungry, wear stretchy pants, and save room for cobbler. You’ll be talking about this place long after the crumbs are gone.

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Important Information:

• Hours: Daily, 10:30 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.
• Parking: Large on-site parking lot
• Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible
• Kid-Friendly: Very! High chairs, kids’ menu, and fun for all ages
• Reservations: Not accepted; expect first-come, first-served seating
• What to Order: Chicken fried steak, fried catfish, throwed rolls, peach cobbler
• Nearby: Minutes from Tanger Outlets and OWA

9. Play Disc Golf at the Rose Trail Course

📍 Location: 121 N Alston St, Foley, AL 36535
Fun Fact: This 18-hole disc golf course winds along the scenic Wilbourne Antique Rose Trail, making it one of the most picturesque urban courses on the Gulf Coast.

If you’ve never played disc golf before, Foley’s Rose Trail course is the perfect place to start. It’s free, beginner-friendly, and set against a surprisingly peaceful backdrop of blooming roses, towering trees, and bird-filled skies. Whether you’re tossing with friends or solo-challenging the course, it’s a great excuse to get outside and explore a lesser-known corner of downtown Foley.

The course offers 18 holes that weave through shaded walkways and landscaped garden paths, with fairways that feel more park stroll than athletic grind. Locals bring their own discs, but even if you're just tagging along for the walk, it’s worth the trip. The surrounding Rose Trail, named for its abundant heirloom roses, is a gem in itself—especially in spring.

Disc golf is easy to pick up, surprisingly addictive, and requires zero athletic background to enjoy. Just grab a few discs, download a scorecard app (or go old-school), and get tossing. It’s low pressure, all fun, and a great way to spend a sunny Gulf Coast morning.

Important Information:

• Hours: Daily, sunrise to sunset
• Cost: Free to play; bring your own discs
• Parking: Free parking near trail entrances
• Course Difficulty: Beginner to intermediate-friendly
• Accessibility: Trail is partially paved and mostly flat
• Best Time to Go: Mornings or late afternoons, especially in spring
• Nearby: Foley Dog Park and downtown shops within walking distance

10. Catch a Tournament at Foley Sports Tourism Complex

📍 Location: 920 E Pride Blvd, Foley, AL 36535
Fun Fact: The complex hosts over 100 regional and national sporting events each year—including soccer, lacrosse, and flag football tournaments that draw teams from across the country.

Even if you’re not playing, the Foley Sports Tourism Complex is worth a visit for the sheer energy it brings to town. With 16 state-of-the-art fields and a championship stadium, this massive facility regularly hosts tournaments that turn Foley into a temporary sports hub. You’ll see crowds of athletes, cheering families, and plenty of vendors and food trucks lining the perimeter.

On tournament weekends, the atmosphere is electric. Games are fast-paced, seating is open, and you don’t need a ticket to enjoy the action. Whether it’s youth soccer or collegiate flag football, the talent level is high, and the camaraderie in the crowd makes it fun for even the casual observer.

If you’re in town during an event, swing by and catch a game or two. There’s a real sense of community here—teams from around the country, local volunteers making things run, and Foley hospitality on full display. Grab a cold drink, find a shady spot, and let the action entertain you.

Important Information:

• Hours: Vary by event; check schedule online
• Admission: Free for many public events; tournaments may charge entry fees
• Parking: Large, free lots on-site
• Food: Concession stands and food trucks often available during events
• Accessibility: Fully ADA accessible stadium and restrooms
• Kid-Friendly: Yes! Often includes bounce houses and family zones
• Nearby: Minutes from OWA, Tanger Outlets, and downtown restaurants

11. Walk or Bike the Wilbourne Antique Rose Trail

📍 Location: Trailhead at E Section Ave & N Alston St, Foley, AL 36535
Fun Fact: The trail features over 500 heirloom rose bushes, many of which bloom year-round in Alabama’s mild climate.

This isn’t just a walking trail—it’s a love letter to Southern charm. The Wilbourne Antique Rose Trail cuts through the heart of Foley, following an old rail line that’s been transformed into a peaceful, flower-lined pathway. Whether you're walking the dog, riding your bike, or just taking a slow afternoon stroll, this is one of the most relaxing things to do in town.

What makes it special? The roses. Hundreds of them—vintage, fragrant, and lovingly maintained—border the trail with bursts of pink, white, red, and yellow. In spring, the whole path smells like a garden in full bloom. But even in off-seasons, it’s a pretty place to clear your head, stretch your legs, or snap a few photos under the shady oaks.

The trail is paved and flat, making it perfect for strollers, wheelchairs, and casual cyclists. Locals walk it daily, and it’s never too crowded. It also connects directly to downtown Foley, so you can grab a coffee or snack before or after your walk.

Important Information:

• Hours: Open daily, sunrise to sunset
• Length: 1 mile (2 miles roundtrip)
• Parking: Free street parking near trailheads
• Accessibility: Fully paved; wheelchair and stroller friendly
• Best Time to Visit: March–May for peak rose blooms
• Dog-Friendly: Yes, leashed
• Nearby: Foley Art Center, downtown cafés, and disc golf course

12. Take the Self-Guided Historic Walking Tour

📍 Location: Begin at Foley Welcome Center, 104 N McKenzie St, Foley, AL 36535
Fun Fact: Foley was founded in 1905 by John B. Foley, who bought thousands of acres of Gulf Coast land for just $5 per acre.

If you're a history buff—or just love old buildings and good stories—Foley’s self-guided walking tour is a quiet gem. With a printed map or mobile app in hand, you can take a deep dive into the city’s past as you explore landmarks like the old post office, century-old churches, and the original train depot.

The tour winds through downtown, Heritage Park, and nearby neighborhoods, where plaques detail the stories behind the architecture and the people who built Foley from the ground up. You’ll learn about the town’s railroad origins, agricultural boom, and how a tiny settlement grew into one of Baldwin County’s most welcoming communities.

The best part? You can go at your own pace. Grab a coffee, follow the route, and pause whenever something catches your eye. It’s easy, informative, and gives you a deeper appreciation for Foley beyond its modern attractions.

Important Information:

• Hours: Available anytime; self-guided
• Tour Length: ~1.5 miles (walkable loop)
• Maps: Pick up at the Welcome Center or download from the city website
• Accessibility: Sidewalks throughout; mostly flat terrain
• Good For: History lovers, photographers, architecture buffs
• Kid-Friendly: Yes, though younger kids may not stay engaged
• Nearby: Heritage Park, museums, and downtown shops

13. Visit the Swift-Coles Historic Home

📍 Location: 17424 Swift Coles Ln, Bon Secour, AL 36511 (15 mins from Foley)
Fun Fact: Originally built as a modest fishing cabin in 1882, the Swift-Coles home was expanded into a 6,000-square-foot mansion during the early 1900s.

Step back in time with a visit to the Swift-Coles Historic Home, a beautifully preserved Southern mansion nestled in the moss-draped trees of Bon Secour. A short drive from Foley, this hidden gem tells the story of life on Alabama’s Gulf Coast during the turn of the century—through original furnishings, period décor, and riverfront views that haven’t changed in over a hundred years.

Guided tours (offered on select days) take you through rooms filled with antiques and artifacts, while docents share stories about the Swift family, who made their fortune in lumber and oysters. The house itself is a marvel—wide porches, heart pine floors, and architecture that blends practicality with old-school elegance.

The peaceful setting near the Bon Secour River makes it feel like a secret slice of Southern history. If you’re into photography, bring your camera—the house, the trees, and the surrounding land offer perfect vintage Southern Gothic vibes.

Important Information:

• Hours: Open for tours Tuesday and Friday, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. (subject to change)
• Admission: ~$10 adults; discounts for seniors and children
• Parking: Free on-site
• Accessibility: Limited wheelchair access due to historic structure
• Good For: History lovers, architecture enthusiasts, quiet getaways
• Photography: Allowed, and highly recommended
• Nearby: Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge and waterfront seafood shack.

Conclusion

What Foley lacks in size, it makes up for in soul. It’s not trying to be the next trendy destination—it’s too busy being itself. You feel it in the way shop owners greet you like they’ve known you for years, in the hush of the pine trees at Graham Creek, and in the messy joy of catching a hot roll at Lambert’s. This is a place where history meets hospitality, where you can chase adventure one minute and unwind the next.

What makes Foley special isn’t just the list of attractions—it’s the way everything fits together: the downtown, the trails, the parks, the food, the people. It all adds up to a town that doesn’t just welcome visitors—it keeps them coming back.

So whether you’re just passing through or putting down temporary roots for a long weekend, let Foley surprise you. Chances are, it’ll leave you wanting one more day—and maybe another slice of pie.

If you plan to visit the city, Karta has some amazing deals on Foley vacation rentals for you!

FAQ

1. How far is Foley, Alabama from Gulf Shores, Alabama?

Foley is 12 miles north of Gulf Shores, about a 20-minute drive via AL-59 S, offering easy access to the beaches while enjoying Foley’s attractions.

2. Is Foley, Alabama a good place to live?

Yes! Foley blends small-town charm with modern conveniences, great for families & retirees. It offers good schools, healthcare, shopping (Tanger Outlets), and outdoor activities.

3. What are some of the top attractions in Foley, Alabama?

Foley has a variety of attractions that cater to different interests. Some of the top spots include:

OWA Parks & Resort: A large entertainment complex with amusement park rides, an indoor water park, shopping, dining, and live performances.

Foley Railroad Museum & Model Train Exhibit: This museum offers insights into the local history with a fantastic model train exhibit.

Graham Creek Nature Preserve: A beautiful outdoor area for hiking, bird-watching, and kayaking.

Tanger Outlet Center: A popular shopping destination with over 120 brand-name and designer outlet stores.

4. What are the best times to visit Foley, Alabama?

Spring & fall offer mild, pleasant weather. Summer is great for beach trips but can be hot. Winters are mild—ideal for escaping northern cold.

5. What is the local culture like in Foley, Alabama?

Foley is known for Southern hospitality and a community-driven lifestyle. Events like Art in the Park & farmers' markets showcase local arts, crafts, and culture.

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