Weeks Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve is home a variety of local wildlife found near the Mobile Bay region in Fairhope. Located along the Weeks Bay estuary, the reserve, which was established in 1986, sprawls across 6,000 acres (2,400 hectares). Flanked by growths of marsh and swamp wetlands, the lush green space thrives as it receives freshwater from the Magnolia and Fish Rivers. Become one with nature as you take a stroll through its vast expanses and learn more about its interesting ecosystem. Here, you can also admire animals exhibits and explore the boardwalk, which makes for an exciting outdoor excursion.
Tolstoy Park is the site of historic house near Fairhope. After Henry Stuart was diagnosed with tuberculosis, he was advised to move to a salubrious climate for better recovery. After purchasing 10 acres (4.04 hectares) of land in Alabama which he named Tolstoy Park after Leo Tolstoy, Stuart built a hurricane-resistant home for himself on the property. Wanting to spend the rest of his days as a simple hermit, he moved to this little home that is just about 14 feet (4.2 meters) in diameter. Today, the peculiar house serves as a historic landmark, having borne witness to an interesting part of Henry Stuart's life. Visitors can stop by to take a look at the little house and explore the park.
Eastern Shore Art Center in Fairhope aims to bring people of all age groups and communities together through art, education, and other activities. Featuring five galleries, the center offers guided tours to visitors and acquaints them with the exhibits on display. The frequently changing exhibits showcase art by local budding and established artists. Apart from the galleries, Eastern Shore Art Center also houses multiple art studios, where is regularly hosts workshops and classes for various age groups. When in Fairhope, the center makes for an ideal attraction to acquaint yourself with local art and culture.
Built-in 1857, the Southern Market/Old City Hall evolved to become the Museum of Mobile. Visit to observe the fine architecture and learn about this city’s rich history. Besides its vast collection of artifacts, what makes History Museum of Mobile unique is that it still continues to be the meeting place for the City Council - which has been their practice since 1858. The museum also offers a host of changing exhibition galleries, a practical Discovery Room, and a museum store.
Enjoying panoramic views of the lake from its location in Langan Park is the Mobile Museum of Art. At 95,000 square feet (8825 square meters), there's a lot to see at this museum. Take a stroll through the outdoor sculpture garden or head inside to see rotating art exhibits. It also serves as a beautiful venue for private events, including weddings.
For a nice, quiet time in a park without any fuss, head over to Cooper Riverside Park when you're in town. This scenic, riverfront park has concrete paths, plenty of grass, and most importantly, panoramic views of the river and the busy harbor. Watch the ships sail by as you enjoy the windy environs of this small park. On the opposite end, the tall, downtown region of Mobile takes the stage, which is equally fascinating to admire. The park also plays host to a plethora of local events.