The Wharf in Orange Beach, Alabama is must see attraction, shopping destination, restaurant mecca, and so much more!
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The Wharf in Orange Beach, AL
Located off of Canal Road in Orange Beach, The Wharf is a must-see attraction as you drive down the road. The Wharf Ferris Wheel can be seen easily, especially at night when it is lit up in fun colors.
Whether you are visiting in December or in the middle of summer there is always something to do and see at The Wharf Orange Beach.
Living in the area we find ourselves making the short drive over to The Wharf frequently. There are so many special events, great restaurants, and things to do that we end up there at least once or twice a week if not more often.
Attractions and Things to do at The Wharf
The Wharf Ferris Wheel
The Ferris Wheel is one of the largest Ferris Wheels in the Southeast! When you ride on the Southeast's largest Ferris wheel you have the opportunity to see epic views across the island.
This is a great family-friendly ride. It is within walking distance of all of the stores and restaurants so it is easy to enjoy.
Spectra Laser Light Show
Kids will love this themed laser light show. The SPECTRA laser light experience is a choreographed show with lighting and state-of-the-art lasers paired with great surround-sound music.
There are nightly shows at 7:30, 8 + 8:30 pm
Each show is different so make sure to hang around to check them all out.
Wharf Amphitheater
Enjoy amazing entertainment and concerts at The Wharf Amphitheater. They bring is amazing bands and some of the biggest names for singers!
Everything from country to hip-hop can be seen at this epic outdoor arena. This 10,000 seat amphitheater is one of the largest music venues along the Gulf Coast.
The Wharf Express Train
Kids will love riding The Wharf Express Train around Main Street. They can wave to people as they ride.
Wharf Marina
Located right on the Intracoastal Waterway you can dock your boat at the marina. This full service state of the art marina includes Bellingham Docks and Super Fuel Dock.
They have 3-phase power, 30/50/100 AMP electrical service, and a pump-out facility. There are over 200 premium floating dock slips. There is even a luxury boater's lounge with laundry rooms, bathrooms, showers, and a living space.
Cetacean Dolphin Cruise
We saw dolphins as soon as we were pulling away from the marina. It was amazing! This is a great Orange Beach Dolphin Tour everyone will love.
Book your Explorer Dolphin Cruise HERE
Sunny Lady Dolphin Cruise
Sunny Lady Dolphin Cruises from The Wharf are the perfect way to get out and see plenty of dolphins and other wildlife in Orange Beach, Alabama.
Book your Sunny Lady Dolphin Cruise HERE
AMC Theaters
Enjoy a great movie theater in the heart of The Wharf OBA.
Cool Shots Selfie Museum - CLOSED
The Wharf Orange Beach Restaurants
If you are looking for great seafood, ice-cream, tacos, or just great food you can find it at The Wharf. Some of our favorite Orange Beach restaurants are found here.
The dining facilities range from casual to date night and everything in between. That being said you are in a beach town so you will see every level of outfits.
Ginny Lane Bar & Grill
Ginny Lane offers casual dining for Sunday brunch, lunch, and dinner. This is a great restaurant for families. We always see multi-generational families happily enjoying a meal together.
My husband says you HAVE to try the shrimp and grits! He can't stop talking about how flavorful it is.
Vinny's Pizzeria
Vinny's Pizza offers great pizzas by the slice or full size pizzas. They also have amazing calzones.
We highly suggest trying the pepperoni log. It is an amazing appetizer or meal all by itself. If you like pepperoni you will love it!
Villaggio Grille
Villaggio Grille is one of our favorite local restaurants for an easy date night out. It is a mix of casual fine dining which sounds weird but the vibe is pretty casual but the food is epic.
Whether you are looking for pizza, seafood, steak, or an epic salad, you will find it at this amazing Wharf Restaurant.
Get the Italian Board appetizer! It is so good. They make the best red snapper we have found in town.
Southern Grind Coffee House
The Southern Grind Coffee House has great ice cream, coffee and tea drinks, and so much more. If you are looking for a coastal gift this is the store to visit.
We love their breakfast and lunch menu. They have a great dog friendly porch.
Mile Marker 158 Dockside
Mile Marker 158 Dockside is located next to the Springhill Suites and The Marina. This great waterfront restaurant offers amazing outdoor seating with views of the intracoastal.
We have watched dolphins while eating at the restaurant which is always fun.
YoHo Rum and Taco Bar & Boat Bar - Closed
YoHo Rum and Taco Bar announced they are moving to a new location in Spring 2026. Their old location is closed.
Yo-Ho Rum and Tacos has appetizers, tacos, wings, fajita skillets, and main entrees.
Tacos include Al Pastor, Fried Chicken Taco, Chimichurri Steak Taco, Fried grouper, firecracker shrimp taco, buffalo chicken taco, and more.
The Pantry at The Wharf - Closed
The Pantry at the Wharf is now closed.
8 Reale
Did you know there is a hidden speakeasy at the wharf hidden behind a safe door? This classy cocktail bar features delicious drinks and a swanky atmosphere all tucked behind a secret door code.
Shopping at The Wharf
Shop for gifts, souvenirs, and more! There are great boutiques along Main Street you do not want to miss!
There are so many unique stores at The Wharf in Orange Beach.
Build a Bear - Build your very own teddy bears to remember your beach vacations.
High Cotton Bath Company - You can customize your perfect bath products at High Cotton Bath Co. They have so many scents to choose from and a recipe book if you want help mixing them together.
The Southern Grind Coffee House - You can find amazing coastal home decor at The Southern Grind. Grab a beachy souvenir and a great cup of coffee.
The Wharf Store - Stop by The Wharf Store to get branded products to remember your visit.
Events at The Wharf
There are so many epic events at The Wharf in Orange Beach! If you are into restored cars make sure to look for the car events. They are so much fun.
New Year's Eve Kid Confetti Drop and Marlin Drop
Have you ever wanted to see a marlin drop from the sky to celebrate New Years Eve? If the answer is yes than this is the event for you!
Blue Marlin Grand Championship
Considered by many to be the greatest show in sportfishing the Blue Marlin Grand Championship is a multi-day event.
It's the final leg of the Gulf Coast Triple Crown Series.
Wharf Boat & Yacht Show
The Wharf Boat & Yacht Show features over $100 million in boats and marine products. There are more than 120 companies exhibiting their best products.
The show includes 130 wet slip boats and yachts along with more than 300 sport and console boats on land. There is live music, art classes for kids, and so much more. The event benefits St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital.
Orange Beach Freedom Fest
Enjoy family friendly activities, Bama Coast Cruisin' Car Show, and so much more.
MoonPies on Main
One of our favorite Wharf events is MoonPies on Main! Celebrate Mardi Gras with a float parade down main street along with a seriously cute pet parade.
Christmas at The Wharf
The holiday season is absolutely amazing at The Wharf! This is the perfect place to get family photos including Santa pictures. Bring your shopping list and enjoy fun shopping and events at great local stores.
Ice Skating
Enjoy ice skating in November and December with hot chocolate and lots of fun.
Orange Beach Event Center - The event center offers 18,000 square feet of space perfect for corporate events, conferences, trade shows, banquets, sporting events, and more.
Where to stay at The Wharf Orange Beach
Springhill Suite at The Wharf
We stayed at the Marriott Springhill Suites when we were looking for houses. The hotel offers a state-of-the-art-fitness center, epic pool, easy access to town, and great rooms.
Many of the rooms have private balcony with a great view of the pool.
Book your hotel stay here.
Wharf Condos
Vacation rentals are available right at The Wharf! Levin's Bend Condominiums include 9 floors of condos overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway and The Wharf Marina.
Enjoy easy access to the Oasis Pool with a zero-entry wave pool, lazy river, hammock island, and tiki bar.
Portside on Main
Check out 33,000 square foot retail space with offices and entertainment, along with an outdoor stage.
The new tenants includeTee Off at The Wharf, LM Boutique, Kilwins, Love Jude Boutique, Little Sunshine by the Sea, Salt, Gulf Babe Wine Boutique, Legacy Spirits, Lavish Retail + Co, and Crave Cookies.
Portside on Main has more than 33,000 feet of space that is currently being built near the front entrance to The Wharf.
Tee Off at the Wharf - Has the Gulf Coast's largest swing suite powered by Top Golf.
LM Boutique - A contemporary women's fashion boutique with accessible, chic clothing and accessories.
Brand - Luxurious interior decor and specialty gifts, on-trend jewelry, and more.
Kilwins - A 2nd location offering their delicious ice cream, confections, and decadent fudge.
Love, Jude - This super cute boutique offers investment-worthy pieces that are comfortable and stylish.
Little Sunshine by the Sea - The Beaufort Bonnet Company Signature Store is an upscale children's boutique.
Salt - The 2nd location for this great locally owned boutique.
Gulf Babe Wine Boutique - Trendy and coastal inspired wine bar offering a social wine experience.
Legacy Spirits - Boutique spirits store with a wide variety of liquor, spirits, and mixers.
Lavish Retail + Co - On trend retail boutique offering clothing, accessories, and shoes.
Crave Cookies - New flavors of cookies offered weekly. Oh my!
Things to know when planning a visit to The Wharf Orange Beach
Address - 23101 Canal Road, Orange Beach, AL 36561
Hours - The Wharf's hours vary by season
Accessibility - We highly suggest finding parking on the main level of the Wharf or along Main Street. The elevator and escalators have a tendency to not be running when you need them.
Plus Size Seating - There are benches and comfortable chairs outside at many of the local restaurants. Most of the restaurants have had comfortable chairs. Check each restaurant link above to see photos of the chairs and seating options.
Dress Code/Suggestions - casual, date night, whatever makes you happy.
Pets - Pets are allowed outside including on the pooch porch at The Southern Grind.
Public Parking - There is quite a bit of free parking available at The Wharf in Orange Beach. There are two multi-level parking garages on each side of the property.
Nearest Airport:
- Pensacola International Airport - 35 miles
- Mobile Regional Airport - 68 miles
- New Orleans International Airport - 203 miles
Additional Orange Beach and Gulf Shores Articles
Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo - They offer amazing animal encounters (Lemurs, Kangaroos, Giraffe Feeding, and Sloths)! This little zoo is packed with fun. They have a great petting zoo area with goats, donkeys, and more.
Best Bars in Orange Beach & Gulf Shores - Check out the best bars to enjoy a great drink, live music, and fun atmosphere.
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!
Best Sunrise spots in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach - All of the best places to view sunrise.
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.
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!
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