Families across Baldwin County have several free and low-cost activities to choose from this week, with programs geared toward young children, school-age kids and teens alike. Local businesses, state parks and libraries are hosting hands-on activities that range from beach games to science experiments. Here’s a look at three options worth adding to the calendar.
Summer of Fun Beach Games
Tacky Jacks in Gulf Shores is hosting a beach games session for kids ages 6 to 12 on Thursday, July 16, from 11 a.m. to noon. Participants receive a free kid’s meal and the chance to win prizes, and organizers say the outing may even be featured on the restaurant’s in-house Tacky TV. Kids should be able to follow instructions independently for safety, and parents can join in on a friendly water balloon dodgeball match of their own. The event is located at 240 E. 24th Ave. in Gulf Shores and is free for kids in the eligible age range.
Little Park Pals: Bug’s Life
Gulf State Park’s Learning Campus welcomes younger children for a bug-focused educational program on Friday, July 17, from 1 to 2 p.m. The session is designed for kids ages 5 and under, with parents required to stay on site, and includes both indoor lessons about insects and a short outdoor bug hunt. Registration is preferred but not required. A $5 per-vehicle fee applies to enter the campground where the Nature Center is located, though campground and cabin guests are exempt from that charge. The Learning Campus is located at 20115 State Park Road in Gulf Shores.
Discovery Science Day at Spanish Fort Public Library
The Spanish Fort Public Library rounds out the week with a hands-on science event on Tuesday, July 21, starting at 10 a.m. Discovery Science Day is built around interactive STEM activities and demonstrations meant to appeal to young scientists of all ages, whether they’re building, experimenting or simply exploring. The event is free and open to families.
Together, the three events offer Baldwin County families a mix of beach recreation, nature education and STEM learning to fill out the week without straining a summer budget.