Frequently Asked Questions

There are plenty of available parking options in Mobile. Both free and metered parking is available for most of our downtown businesses, along with several public and private parking lots and garages. For a full list of the available parking options in Mobile, visit the Downtown Mobile Aliance’s up-to-date list. Pro tip: most metered on-street parking downtown is free on weekends!

In Mobile, there are plenty of free and affordable ways to fall in love with our culture, food, diverse neighborhoods and history. Whether you love the outdoors, are looking for some culture, want to sample our delicious cuisine or be entertained, Mobile's budget-bestie options are an absolute delight. Apologies in advance if your wallet stays a little heavy.

Mobile is the oldest city in the State of Alabama - nearly 325 years old! During that time, we’ve made quite a name for ourselves. Mobile is best known for its history, culinary scene, diverse ecosystem, arts and culture, and of course for being the original home of Mardi Gras in the United States!

In case you didn't know, Mobile has incredible scenic spaces and natural beauty. Whenever you need to pause and recenter mentally, Mobile has plenty of places for you to collect your thoughts while enjoying the beauty of nature. Because who doesn't need a free-time, me-time escape?

With so many great places to go in Mobile, figuring out how to spend your trip can get tricky! Not sure where to start your planning? Check out our suggested itineraries for ideas on places to stay, restaurants, attractions and activities. Whether you're looking for fresh Gulf seafood at Bluegill, a "behind the mask" view of Mardi Gras at the Mobile Carnival Museum, or an outdoor adventure at Historic Blakeley State Park, there are places and spaces for every interest. 

Mobilians love to throw a party and we celebrate just about everything. On any given day, you'll find festivals, concerts, street parties, art shows, symphonies, sporting events ... just to name a few. There's something to do all the time in Mobile, don't plan on being bored when you're in town!

Well, why would you ask such a hard question like that? There are tons of things to do in Mobile! Outdoor activities like river cruises through the Delta, indoor activities like visiting the Mobile Museum of Art or History Museum of Mobile, and all things Mardi Gras will just get you started! View all of the wonderful things to do here.

In Mobile, we are forever finding reasons to throw a party. What else would you expect from the birthplace of America's original Mardi Gras? From pecans to shrimp to flowers to oysters and dogs and pumpkins and film and football and ... well, you get the picture. We're born to celebrate, and you can find out what's going on any time of the year on our events calendar!

The best place to learn all about America's Original Mardi Gras is in-person, right here in Mobile! If you're visiting Mobile during the Carnival season and want some beginners' tips, we've got you covered. Want to do a deep dive on all things Mardi Gras during your visit? Head on over to the Mobile Carnival Museum. There is so much to learn, see and experience when it comes to Mardi Gras in the city that started it all!

The seasons may change, but the energy and excitement that fuel Mobile never slow down. Every time of year, our city comes alive with vibrant celebrations, unforgettable experiences and one-of-a-kind traditions that make each season uniquely special. Our lively spring festivals, sun-soaked summer days by the bay, enchanting fall events and festive winter celebrations each bring fresh adventures to discover. No matter when you visit, you’ll find that Mobile knows how to make every season an experience worth remembering. It’s only right to see and celebrate Mobile all year.

Mobile is home to a diverse culinary scene. What are the best restaurants in Mobile? Well, that depends on what you’re looking for! If you’re in the mood for seafood, you might try [blank]. For dinner with a view, try Dauphin’s or Bluegill. If you’re looking for great burgers and bar bites, check out LODA Bier Garten or Callaghan’s Irish Social Club. Looking to sample the best restaurants but aren’t sure where to start? Go ahead and book yourself a Bienville Bites Food Tour, named back-to-back Best Food Tour in the U.S. by USA Today! Check out all of our restaurant partners here!

Taste Mobile like a local with Bienville Bites Food Tour! Named one of the Top 5 Best Food Tours in the U.S. by USA Today, Bienville Bites is the must-do culinary experience in Mobile, Alabama! Join us for a delicious journey through the city’s rich history and diverse flavors. Stroll beneath historic oaks, visit locally owned restaurants, and indulge in some of the best food Mobile has to offer. 

Whether your ideal date night includes exciting attractions, a delicious dinner or a night on the town, Mobile has got you covered. Check out this blog for some unique date night ideas in Mobile, including romantic dinner cruises and thrilling adventures!

Mobile is your port of call!
Cruising from Mobile on Carnival Cruise Line or to Mobile with American Cruise Lines offers exciting experiences before and after setting sail through various attractions, restaurants and shops. Area hotels offer great "Park & Cruise" packages—see the "Plan Your Next Experience" section below for details and hotel reservation information.

The beaches of Dauphin Island are a short 45-minute drive from Downtown Mobile. While visiting Mobile, you’re also an easy, breezy drive away from Orange Beach and Gulf Shores. Check out this page if the sun and the sand are calling your name!

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Got a cool event going on in Mobile? We’ll help you spread the word! Submit an event to our events calendar by filling out this simple form.

Unlock the hidden gems of Mobile, Alabama and make the most of your time before and after your cruise with these must-try activities and attractions.

Mobile has tons of pet-friendly activities. Mobile has options for pet friendly hotels, like the Battle House Renaissance Mobile Hotel & Spa, the dog-friendly beaches of Dauphin Island, or restaurants and breweries that are always welcoming to patrons with paws (like Callaghan’s Social Club and Braided River Brewing Co.).

The more the merrier, the bigger the better, strength in numbers. With everything there is to do in Mobile, groups just have more fun here! We've put together some ideas to make this getaway get-together memorable for all.

It's been said that there are really only two seasons in Mobile - football season and the rest of the year. All kidding aside, while Mobile does have mild springs, autumns and winters, our summers can get pretty hot. Being located on the Gulf Coast, it's easy enough, though, to get on the water during those long summer days.  We take our climate in stride, dress accordingly and find time to spend outdoors year-round. For current temperatures, see the weather drop-down at the top-right of our website.

With its first settlers arriving in 1702, the city of Mobile is rich in history as it has existed under six flags, survived wars and emerged into the modern era. While there are many ways to take in the city’s history, visiting its beautiful historic homes is one of our favorites. See the grandeur of the South, its architecture and hear stories of each home’s dwellers. Mobile's historic homes offer visitors a keen understanding of locals' lives and Southern tradition through the centuries.

Laid back or luxurious, in the heart of downtown or off the beaten path, Mobile has a stay for every style. Whether you're looking for hotel, bed & breakfast, vacation rental or even campground, there is no shortage of places to rest your head after a day of exploring the Port City. Head over to our Places to Stay page for more!

Oh, that thing? That's Colonial Fort Condé, and it sits on the site of the historic fort built in the early 1700s that guarded Mobile for over 100 years! It celebrates our French, Spanish, British and American heritage. The History Museum of Mobile is located just across the street and you can explore both places with one ticket!

Mobile celebrates all love! Check out this page for more information on our LGBTQ+ owned bars and restaurants, other businesses, and events! Mobile is also home to two LGBTQ+ founded and inclusive Mardi Gras societies, and we definitely recommend finding your way to one of their annual balls if you’re here during Carnival season.

Pics or it didn't happen? We've got you covered. If you need a list of ideas for your next social media photo dump, then look no further. Here are some #SoMobile spots around town to take photos during your next visit to the Port City.  

Mobile has a rich history and culture shaped by Native, African, and European influences. That culture shines through in our architecture, food, art and traditions. For our history buffs, we've got a history lover's guide to Mobile built just for you. Take a deep dive into Mobile's past on a history tour, stroll through a museum or attend one of the many annual cultural festivals.

There are some things about Mobile that are undeniable. Mardi Gras has been celebrated in Mobile since 1703, making it the country’s oldest (and best) carnival tradition. We are the oldest city in Alabama. Some of our nicknames include “The Azalea City,” “The City of Six Flags” and “The Gateway to the Gulf.” 

Outside of these hard facts, some experiences are #SoMobile, you wouldn’t believe it unless you enjoyed them for yourself. Dive into these adventures and add them to your next itinerary for your next journey to the Port City.