5 Best Things To Do In Magnolia Springs, Alabama

Magnolia Springs, Alabama, is tucked away on the Magnolia River in South Alabama. Even though it's known by some as a pass-through town on the way to Gulf Shores, Magnolia Springs has its own heart, with stories that date back to its settlement as a Spanish land grant in 1800. In April, The Daily Meal recognized Magnolia Springs as the prettiest town in Alabama in the article "The Prettiest Town in Every State." Adding to its charm, Magnolia Springs also boasts the only river route for mail delivery in the United States. Bills and junk mail are so much more enchanting from a mailbox on the water.

Stay At A Top-Rated B&B

There's only one place to stay if you're visiting, and that's the Magnolia Springs Bed and Breakfast. Even if there were hundreds of hotel options, we'd still choose this Victorian home built in 1897. The B&B has five rooms, each with its own antique feel, and a great hall with 14 ½ foot ceilings. Every morning you'll be greeted with a three-course gourmet breakfast.

Enjoy Today's Catch

Walk a short way down the road to dine at the famous Jesse's Restaurant. Although Jesse's is technically a steak house, the seafood is fresh from Gulf waters, and you can't go wrong with anything on the menu whether it's a crusted Gulf Grouper with maple pecan crumble or Australian rack of lamb with candied pistachio and mint oil. Make a reservation ahead of time. Not only does Jesse's fill up fast, you can pick which room you'd like to sit in ahead of time.

Plan A Wedding

St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Magnolia Springs is the perfect place for the little-white-church wedding of your dreams. The building, made from pine on its very land, is also on the National Register of Historic Places. Check out pictures here.

Explore The Outdoors

Magnolia Springs is near Gulf Shores and its extensive natural areas. In Gulf State Park, wander through freshwater marshes and coastal hardwood swamps on the 15-mile Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail. If a barrier island is more your speed, seek out migrating songbirds and sea turtles at the beautiful Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge.

If you've brought your own kayak or canoe, you can launch from Bemis Bay Community Dock right in town—and wave to the mail carrier on the water. There are also several kayaking outfits in the nearby city of Foley or down in Gulf Shores.

Relax On The Beach

And of course, no vacation would be complete without a day on the white sand beaches of Orange Beach and Gulf State Park. Pack a picnic or rent a beach bike from Gulf Shores Bike Rentals or Beach Bike Rentals to explore the beaches and nearby nature trails.