It’s no surprise that Fairhope, Alabama has received many accolades such as being recognized on the “Best Small Town,” “Most Charming Towns” lists in magazines year after year.
This quaint town on the Eastern Shore sits atop bluffs overlooking Mobile Bay. Within moments, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped inside of Southern Living Magazine as the town is draped in Spanish moss, picturesque homes and coastal views.
Strolling through Fairhope is like stepping back in time to a simpler and sweeter time, however with all the modern-day conveniences. Downtown Fairhope is full of charming shops like Sway, Fantasy Island Toy Store, Gigi & Jay’s and Page
& Palette. Page & Palette Bookstore hosts many famous authors for in-store for events and signings. You’ll want to stop by The Fairhope Store to pick up a t-shirt or two as these shirts are the town’s unofficial laid-back uniform.
Bring your bikes to explore the Fairhope or Orange Street Piers for beautiful views of the bay. The children’s playground and Duck Pond are also not to be missed. These shores are also home to a unique event, jubilee, where crabs, shrimp, fish and other sea creatures wash up on the shore. This phenomenon only occurs in Fairhope and on the coast of Japan.
Fairhope is for foodies. This small town doesn’t lack in delicious cuisine. Sunset Pointe Marina is known to have the best outdoor dining views. Panini Petes is a local lunch favorite for paninis, sandwiches and burgers. Panini Petes may sound familiar as the restaurant has been featured on several TV shows, such as "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives," and others on Food Network. The Mill offers a casual food hall environment with a few dining choices. Mr. Gene Bean’s is a landmark ice cream shop. Pro tip: try out their Fairhope Float!
The holidays in Fairhope resemble being on set of a Hallmark movie. Fairhope hosts annual events like the Lighting of the Trees, Movie in the Street, Christmas parade with fake snow, an Open House with downtown retailers and a New Years Eve Family Celebration. Each spring, thousands flock to the Fairhope Arts and Crafts festival to shop hundreds of local and regional arts
vendors.
The Grand Resort is known as the “Southern Queen of Resorts.” This retreat has oozed with southern hospitality for over 170 years. The Grand Resort is set on 550 acres on the Mobile Bay and it’s amenities cannot be topped with golf, tennis, a beach, pools, dining and spa. Each afternoon guests are treated to a short history lesson and firing of the cannons. Tea and cookies are served
immediately after.
Fairhope is such a family-friendly town. Children will love the Fairhopers Park. This playground features swings, a free splash pad, musical instruments and climbing structures.This park is within walking distance to downtown.
Fairhope is about a 45 minute drive to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach so you can definitely visit the beach during your trip too.
Add Fairhope to your travel bucket lists! It’s the perfect destination for families, couples or girl’s weekends!
Favorite Things to Do
1-Stop by Two Sisters for warm beignets
2-Afternoon cookies and cannon firing at The Grand
3-Shop the unique stores downtown
4-Attend the Arts and Crafts Festival
5-Play at the Fairhopers Park
6- Mr. Gene Beans ice cream is a Fairhope must
