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    Home » Alabama » Gulf Shores » Restaurants

    Best Kid Friendly Restaurants Orange Beach & Gulf Shores

    Modified: Apr 19, 2026 · Published: Mar 5, 2024 by Tammilee · This post may contain affiliate links

    The best Kid Friendly Restaurants in Orange Beach & Gulf Shores, Alabama! These restaurants have something for everyone, including games, sandy beach areas, and great food.

    Collage of kid friendly restaurant photos with LuLus ropes course, The Gulf picnic tables in the sand, Tacky Jacks sand area with an elephant, and The Hangouts Foam Party

    Best Kid-Friendly Restaurants Orange Beach & Gulf Shores

    Contents show
    Best Kid-Friendly Restaurants Orange Beach & Gulf Shores
    The Gulf - Orange Beach
    LuLu's - Gulf Shores
    The Hangout - Gulf Shores
    Tacky Jacks
    GTs on the Bay
    Sunliner Diner
    Savanna - CLOSED as of 5/31/25
    Shrimpy's
    Village Hideaway - Fort Morgan
    Woodside Restaurant - Gulf State Park
    Lamberts Cafe - Foley
    Wolf Bay Restaurant
    Groovy Goat
    Dessert Restaurants for Families
    Additional Gulf Coast Articles
    Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tours
    Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Lodging

    These family-friendly restaurants are great for the entire family. The Alabama Gulf Coast is the perfect family vacation destination, and these restaurants are our favorite kid-friendly options.

    There are so many great restaurants in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach it is hard to pick the very best ones. We looked at which restaurants have a kid's play area, kids' menu options, an atmosphere parents and family members will enjoy being in, and the overall experience at the restaurant.

    Living in Gulf Shores, we have the opportunity to visit these restaurants year-round and see how they handle crowds, families, and hangry sun-tired kids who just want to eat.

    Whether you are looking for fresh seafood or fried seafood, gumbo, crab claws, shrimp and grits, Gulf oysters, po'boys, sandwiches, or a great burger, these restaurants will have what you are craving.

    Don't miss the best things to do with kids in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach!

    TL;DR Don't have time to read the full article? Here are my top finds:
    🏨Hotels and Vacation Rentals
    📍Tours
    ✨What's New in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach

    White picnic tables with a view of sunset and a palm tree at The Gulf

    The Gulf - Orange Beach

    The Gulf Restaurant in Orange Beach is one of our favorite restaurants. They make it really easy for families to enjoy a meal together. There are picnic tables in different sizes along with regular tables and chairs.

    You order at a counter and they bring the food out to you. This is great if one person wants to order while the other finds a table and gets the family comfortable.

    If you have kids that love playing in the sand we suggest bringing a few sand toys and letting them dive into the sandy play area next to the table. They also have a couple of toys kids can climb on in the sand.

    There is a gorgeous view of the Gulf of Mexico with a concrete barrier between you and the water.

    Menu highlights - The Gulf kids menu includes chicken strips and fries, or a great grilled cheese with fries.

    My husband loves the fish tacos at The Gulf.

    Address - 27500 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach AL 36561

    Phone - 251-424-1800

    Parking - There is a nice size parking area next to the restaurant.

    Reservations - They do not accept reservations.

    Lucy Buffett's LuLu's sign over 2 Adirondack Chairs with plants next to them

     

    LuLu's - Gulf Shores

    LuLu's in Gulf Shores is a great family friendly restaurant. There is an entire entertainment complex along with the restaurant to keep everyone happy and well fed.

    There are two ropes courses depending on the age of kids. The Mountain of Youth is a three story rope course with tight rope walking. Munchkin Mountain is the smaller ropes course for kids 4 feet and under.

    LuLu's has a beach arcade with new and old school games. During the busy season you will find a caricature artist, hair wraps, henna, and more.

    If you have anyone in your family that has food allergies including gluten free, LuLu's has a designated kitchen for anyone with dietary restrictions.

    They have a full bar so adults can enjoy a Bloody Mary, world-famous LuLu's Bushwacker, or other drinks.

    Make sure to check out the great gift shop!

    Menu highlights - The kid's menu includes a kid's cheeseburger, grilled or fried fish, grilled or fried shrimp, grilled or fried chicken tenders, a cheese or chicken quesadilla, and a kid's mac and cheese.

    All of the kid's menu items are served with seasonal fruit mix, green beans, or French fries.

    Address - 200 E 25th Ave, Gulf Shores, AL 36542

    Phone - (251) 967-5858

    Parking - There is a nice size parking area next to the restaurant. That being said don't be surprised if it is packed. They have a parking attendant at times who will help you with parking if it is busy.

    Reservations - LuLu's has the option to make a reservation up to a week prior for parties of less than 8 people.

     

    The Hangout sign over a giant blue Adirondack chair with The Hangout on it

    The Hangout - Gulf Shores

    Get ready for fun for the entire family! Have you ever wanted to participate in a foam party? You can enjoy a fun foam party with the entire family at the Hangout. The courtyard area has live music, a giant sand pile kids can play, fun art including a giant surfer and huge Adirondack chairs.

    During the summer they host Pirates & Princesses breakfast events.

    Menu Highlights - The kids menu includes Hamburger, popcorn shrimp, mac n cheese, chicken tenders, or hot dog sliders. Served with choice of French fries, applesauce, or the veggie of the day.

    Address - 101 E. Beach Blvd, Gulf Shores, AL

    Right next to the best beach of Gulf Shores...Gulf Place

    Phone - 251-948-3030

    Parking - There is a designated Hangout parking lot next to the restaurant along with paid parking in front of the restaurant.

    Reservations - The restaurant does not take reservations.

    Tacky Jacks Grill and Tavern entrance with brightly colored painted wood

    Tacky Jacks

    Tacky Jacks Orange Beach is a great family friendly restaurant. They have a sandy area next to the water that is great for kids. The restaurant is casual and low-key with a fun vibe.

    If you have ever wanted to try parasailing you can book a Chute for the Sky Parasailing trip right next to Tacky Jacks. Children 4-18 are allowed to parasail if a parent signs a waiver. Book your tour here.

    Menu highlights - The kids menu includes chicken strips, creamy mac and cheese, flaky fish fingers, fried popcorn shrimp, Mexican Garbage nachos, grilled cheese sandwich, and a cheeseburger.

    Address - Tacky Jacks Orange Beach - 27206 Safe Harbor Dr, Orange Beach AL 36561

    There is also a Tacky Jacks in Gulf Shores and one in Fort Morgan.

    Phone -  251-981-4144

    Parking - There is a large parking area near the restaurant. Be prepared it does get busy.

    Reservations - The restaurant does not take reservations.

    Outdoor dining tables on the deck of GTs on the Bay Restaurant

    GTs on the Bay

    GTs on the Bay offers something for everyone in the family. They have great indoor and outdoor seating so you can decide how much sun you want to enjoy.

    There is a giant indoor aquarium you just have to see to believe. Outside, there is a pirate ship kids playground area with seating next to it. There is also a long dock you can walk out on to look for dolphins.

    They also serve brunch on Sundays.

    Menu highlights - The kids menu has a variety of dishes include kids noodles with marinara or alfredo sauce, hamburger, chicken, shrimp, grilled or fried fish.

    Address - 26189 Canal Rd, Orange Beach, AL 36561

    Located in the heart of Orange Beach off of Canal Road. The restaurant is really easy to find.  They also have a boat dock at the restaurant so you can boat in for great food.

    Phone - 251-980-8400

    Parking - There is a nice size parking lot next to the restaurant.

    Reservations - The restaurant does not accept reservations.

    historic car in front of the Sunliner Diner and hot biscuit sign and the restaurant

    Sunliner Diner

    Sunliner Diner is a great restaurant for families. If you are traveling with great grandparents or grand parents who grew up in the 50s they will LOVE it!

    They even have an old school car families can enjoy a meal in. They serve classic comfort food, epic milkshakes, and have one of the biggest ice cream sundaes on the island.

    Menu highlights - They have a great kids menu with breakfast options all day and lunch/dinner options after 10 am.

    Address -  100 E 2nd Ave, Gulf Shores, Alabama

    Phone - (251) 937-6590

    Parking - There is a nice size parking lot next to the restaurant.

    Reservations - The restaurant does not accept reservations.

    african art on the walls, booth under a tend and tables and chairs in a restaurant

    Savanna - CLOSED as of 5/31/25

    Savanna Restaurant is located next to the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo and offers fantastic breakfast, lunch, and dinner options in a great atmosphere.

    We love sitting outside and being able to see the monkeys playing. It is a great way to have everyone entertained during the meal.

    Menu highlights - The kids menu includes grilled cheese sandwich and fries, pepperoni pizza, chicken nuggets with fries, mac & cheese, or a cheeseburger with fries.

    Address - 20499 Oak Rd E, Gulf Shores, AL 36542

    Located next to the main entrance to the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo.

    Phone - (251) 256-7007

    Parking - There is a large parking lot in front of the zoo.

    Reservations - Reservations can be made on OpenTable

    large pink shrimp sculpture next to a putt putt golf course

    Shrimpy's

    Shrimpy's is a great family friendly restaurant in Gulf Shores! They have a small restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating right next to their mini golf course.

    Enjoy a great meal and have fun playing a round of mini golf.

    Menu highlights - They have great wings, flatbreads, baskets with chicken, shrimp, fish, or a combo basket. Plus they have an amazing French Fry Bar!

    Address -  204 E 2nd Ave, Gulf Shores, AL 36542

    Phone - 251-948-6464

    Parking -  There is parking next to the restaurant as well as across the street.

    Reservations - Shrimpy's does not take reservations.

    White building with The Village Hideaway sign, string lights leading up to the entrance

    Village Hideaway - Fort Morgan

    The Village Hideaway in Fort Morgan is fantastic for families! They have a great menu with delicious food AND an indoor arcade attached to the restaurant.

    Menu highlights - The kid's menu includes grilled or fried fish, grilled or fried shrimp, hamburger or cheeseburger, and or fried chicken tenders. Served with fries

    Address - The Village at the Main Entrance to The Beach Club Resort and Spa on Fort Morgan Road

    925 Beach Club Trail, Gulf Shores, AL 36542

    Phone - 251-224-3650

    Parking - There is a nice-sized parking lot near the restaurant.

    Reservations - They do not take reservations.

    The Woodside Restaurant at Gulf State Park wooden sign

    Woodside Restaurant - Gulf State Park

    Woodside Restaurant is located in the heart of Gulf State Park. The restaurant is right on the main bike trails so you can bike to the restaurant if desired.

    They have great games set up on their screened-in patio and larger games outside on the lawn. Their menu is fantastic for the entire family.

    Menu highlights - The kids menu includes:

    Breakfast - pancakes, scrambled eggs, or French toast.

    Kids menu for Lunch and Dinner - Grilled cheese, chicken fingers, cheeseburger, or mac & cheese, served with chips and a drink.

    Address - 20249 State Park Road, Gulf Shores, Al 36542

    Phone - 251-923-3100

    Parking - There is a small parking area next to the restaurant. You can also park your bikes next to the restaurant if you bike in.

    If you are staying at Gulf State Park Lodge or visiting other areas of the park there is a Gulf State Park Shuttle that stops at the restaurant.

    Reservations - No Reservations are needed to visit the restaurant.

    Lambert's Cafe Foley building with cars parked in front

    Lamberts Cafe - Foley

    Lambert's Cafe is home of the throwed roll. It is super kid friendly and everyone we have taken there loved it.

    Kids can catch a roll thrown by a server close by or across the restaurant. There is so much entertainment watching rolls fly through the air and people attempting to catch them.

    Menu highlights - There is a Little Scotty's Kids Menu for children under the age of 10.

    Kids can choose from a choice of hamburger, cheeseburger, chicken leg, chicken tenders, chicken & dumplings, roast beef with mashed potatoes and gravy, meatloaf with mashed potatoes and gravy, BBQ sandwich, vegetable plate, grilled cheese, or mac n cheese.

    All kids menu items are served with 2 sides and a drink.

    They also offer catfish or shrimp with 2 sides and a drink on the kids menu.

    Address - 2981 S. McKenzie, Foley, AL 36535

    Phone - 251-943-7655

    Parking - There is a large wrap around parking lot for the restaurant along with a secondary dirt lot behind the restaurant.

    Reservations - The restaurant does not take reservations.

    Wolf Bay Restaurant logo over a walkway into the restaurant

    Wolf Bay Restaurant

    Wolf Bay Restaurant in Orange Beach has a great kids menu, adults will love the delicious food and drinks.

    While the restaurant does not have a specific play area for kids they are next to a small pond water area that is filled with turtles and the possible alligator.

    They have fish feeding stations near the entrance and you can watch the turtles scurry over to you when you walk up to the deck. It is a relaxed chill restaurant with the bonus of fun turtle watching.

    Menu highlights - The Wolf Bay Restaurant Kids Menu includes chicken tenders, cheese pizza, fried fish, popcorn shrimp, alfredo pasta, cheeseburger, or mini corn dogs served on a Wolf Bay Frisbee with fries or fruit.

    Address - 24131 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, AL 36561

    Foley Location - 20801 Miflin Road, Foley, AL 36535

    Phone - 251 965 5129

    Parking - There is a fairly large parking lot next to the restaurant.

    Reservations - Currently, the restaurant is not accepting reservations.

    Groovy Goat sign with a goat and food drink next to a large arrow

    Groovy Goat

    The Groovy Goat is located at OWA near the entrance to Tropic Falls Theme Park. This OWA restaurant has great food and a large arcade right next to it.

    There are tons of TVS on the wall playing sporting events or fun events. The arcade has games for all ages.

    It is a great family-friendly restaurant in Foley.

    Menu highlights -

    The kids meals include an entree, one side, and a drink.

    Kraft Macaroni and Cheese, Spaghetti and Meatballs, a burger, or chicken tenders. Side options include fries, tater tots, onion rings, slaw, mashed potatoes, carrot and celery sticks, or a side salad

    Address - 106-A South OWA BLVD, Foley, AL 36535

    Located near the OWA Clocktower and Tropic Falls entrance.

    Phone - 251-999-GOAT

    Parking - There is a large parking area next to the restaurant.

    Reservations - The Groovy Goat does not accept reservations.

    The yard milkshake bar cookie dough shake and unicorn shake in a mason jar glass

    Dessert Restaurants for Families

    If you are looking for a great sweet treat, these are a few of our favorite places to take family and friends for dessert.

    The Yard Milkshake Bar - Their giant specialty milkshakes are amazing and great for sharing.

    Island Ice Cream and Treats - They offer epic Mason Jar sundaes, cones, and more. Owned by the same people who own The Yard milkshake bar.

    Scoops Ice Cream - offers epic ice cream treats right in the heart of Gulf Shores. This local favorite is a must visit.

    Sweet Cone Alabama - This Orange Beach Ice Cream shop is the perfect place to satisfy your sweet tooth.

    The Southern Grind - Grab an ice cream, sweet treat in the bakery case, or a great coffee or tea drink.

    Best Ice Cream in Gulf Shores - The best ice cream shops for great ice cream cones, sundaes, banana splits, and more!

    Donut Shops in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach - The best places to grab a doughnut!

    What is your favorite Kid Friendly Restaurants in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores?

    Mountain of Youth 3 story ropes course
    LuLu's Mountain of Youth 3 story ropes course

    Additional Gulf Coast Articles

    Coffee Shops in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach - The best places to grab a cup of coffee or tea in town.

    Best Burgers in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach - Check out the best burgers you can enjoy along the Gulf Coast of Alabama.

    What's New in Orange Beach & Gulf Shores - Check out all of the new restaurants, attractions, hotels, and things to do in town.

    Unique Things to do in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores - There are so many amazing and unique things to do in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama!

    Bottlenose dolphin jumping out of a wave on the Gulf of Mexico

    Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tours

    These are some of our favorite tours available in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama.

    Dolphin Tours - Book a dolphin cruise here

    Check out our experiences on Hammock Time Tiki Tours, Explorer Dolphin Cruise, Southern Rose Dolphin cruise, Cruise OB (Orange Beach), Sail Wild Hearts, Sunset Sail and Dolphin Tour, and the Sunny Lady Dolphin Cruise.

    Slingshot Rentals - Use code GULFJOURNEY To save 10% off a Slingshot Rental with Gulf Coast Rental Co in Orange Beach

    Pontoon Boat Rentals - Enjoy cruising the waters of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach on a Pontoon. Check out the pontoon boats with slides for extra fun. Book your Boat Rental Here

    Parasailing - Check out the epic views as you parasail in the Gulf of Mexico. Look for wildlife and you float high above the water. Book your Parasailing Trip Here

    Jet Ski Rentals - Jet Ski Tours and rentals are a great way to explore the back bays of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Book your Jet Ski Rental Here

    Click here to see all of the top rated tours and activities available in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.

    Gulf of Mexico views with Turquoise Place condo and white sand beach

    Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Lodging

    If you are visiting and need to book accommodations, here are our recommendations. We have personally stayed at each of these lodging options (except Margaritaville, coming 2027!):

    Use code GULFJOURNEY at checkout with Spectrum Resorts and Beachball Properties for an exclusive discount!

    🏖️ Beachball Properties - Vacation houses and condos throughout Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Use Code GULFJOURNEY for a discount. Book with Beachball Properties

    🏖️ The Beach Club Resort and Spa (Fort Morgan) - Beachfront condos with amazing amenities, a spa, and the incredible Coast Restaurant on-site. Use Code GULFJOURNEY for a discount with Spectrum Resorts. Book The Beach Club

    🏖️ Turquoise Place (Orange Beach) - Our favorite resort in the area! Luxury amenities, epic Gulf-front views, and stunning condos. Truly unforgettable. Use Code GULFJOURNEY for a discount with Spectrum Resorts. Book Turquoise Place

    🏨 The Tides Hotel (Orange Beach) - Gorgeous beachfront hotel with a great breakfast buffet, outdoor pool, and top-notch customer service. Book The Tides

    🏨 Island House Hotel (Orange Beach) - Right on the beach with epic views from every room. Book Island House

    ⛺ Timberline Glamping (Orange Beach) - Stay in an amazing glamping tent with a private bathroom, right next to Gulf State Park. Book Timberline

    🏨 The Lodge at Gulf State Park - Beachfront Hilton hotel in Gulf State Park offering epic views, sustainable practices, and great on-site restaurants. Book The Lodge

    🏨 Springhill Suites Orange Beach - Located next to The Wharf with a gorgeous pool. Perfect location for shopping and dining. Book Springhill Suites

    🔜 Margaritaville Resort Orange Beach (Coming 2027) - The highly anticipated Margaritaville resort is coming to Orange Beach! The first phase opens in 2027 and will include beachfront cottages, bungalows, condos, pickleball courts, and an entertainment district.

    The map below shows the current hotels and vacation rentals available in the area. You can select the dates you are visiting to see current availability.

    Don't miss our other Gulf Coast destinations, including Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Dauphin Island, Fairhope, Fort Morgan, Foley, Mobile, Bayou La Batre, Alabama, and so many more!

    We also have articles on the Emerald Coast of Florida, including Destin, Fort Walton Beach, Pensacola Beach, Navarre Beach, Panama City Beach, Perdido Key, Pensacola, and more.

    Keep an eye out for articles on the Gulf Coast of Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas, and Florida!

    Check out our Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok pages for more great ideas for the Gulf Coast.

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