Top Summer Activities in Alabama and Mississippi

Orange Beach | Steven Van Elk

There are many ways to enjoy summer in Alabama and Mississippi, from attending town festivals to enjoying gorgeous waterfront settings. Let’s look at some of the best ways to spend your summer days in Alabama and Mississippi.

Explore Gulf Coast Beaches

The pleasant beach towns in Alabama and Mississippi are perfect getaway destinations that fill up with visitors in the summer. Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are expansive resort communities with picturesque white sand beaches in Alabama, and Ocean Springs and Biloxi provide a perfect blend of coastal beauty and culture in Mississippi. While these destinations are among the most popular, the Alabama and Mississippi Gulf Coasts offer a plethora of other appealing options to explore.

Experience Alabama Restaurant Week in Montgomery

Alabama is famous for its food, which consists of tasty Southern classics such as barbecue, shrimp and grits, and fried chicken. Experience the culinary delights of this state at Alabama Restaurant Week in Montgomery. This highly anticipated two-week celebration in August is about showcasing the Alabama food scene; many restaurateurs open their doors to diners and serve special local dishes. 

Camp at J.P. Coleman State Park

Summer is the time for outdoor exploration, and many scenic areas across Alabama and Mississippi provide overnight camping sites perfect for immersing yourself in nature. J.P. Coleman State Park, along the Tennessee River and Pickwick Lake, is one of the premier places in Mississippi for camping. It houses plenty of RV campsites, numerous cabins and cottages, and several basic camping areas. This massive family-friendly park comprises lush forests and beautiful scenery ideal for hiking, swimming, sailing, and fishing.

Attend a Music Festival in Alabama

Summer is synonymous with a wealth of outdoor events that take place throughout the country. Alabama hosts several major music festivals, including Rock the South. This large country music festival’s 2023 headliners will include Zach Bryan, Chris Stapleton, and Cody Johnson. The W.C. Handy Music Festival is an annual tradition in Florence that features more than 300 events across ten days, including musical performances, art markets, and so much more.

Boat Along Mississippi’s Scenic Rivers

Escape Mississippi’s humid summer temperatures by grabbing a kayak or canoe and heading to one of the state’s many gorgeous rivers. You can observe Mississippi’s renowned nature and wildlife firsthand while floating along its winding waterways. The Pascagoula River is a spectacular natural paradise of swamps and marshes along the Gulf Coast, and local businesses offer tours and boat rentals. Also, the Wolf River offers a delightful experience for canoers and kayakers of all skill levels. Its calm water and beaches make it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.