Weekend Escape: A lazy and lush Gulf Shores getaway

Next stop: Fort Morgan in Gulf Shores, AL. This is a great stop for history buffs. Established in 1834, historic Fort Morgan served as the “guardian” of Mobile Bay throughout four wars. Walking around this ocean fort is like stepping back in time.

Then, it’s time to take a dip in the warm waters of the Gulf at Gulf State Park! The first thing you’ll notice is the blindingly white glow emanating from the soft and fine Gulf sands. Spend the day here picnicking on the beach, wading in the waves, building sand castles, or just lounging on a towel watching the seagulls. Life moves pretty slow here, giving you a chance to savor every moment.

When you’re ready for some delicious pub food, head to Flora-Bama Lounge in Pensacola, FL. This waterfront lounge first opened in 1964, and serves oysters and solid beach cocktails 365 days a year, from 11 a.m. to 3 a.m. In addition, it’s a kid-friendly joint, and there's often live music to chill out to. The Lounge prides itself on its "flip-flop fine dining," so expect good food in a relaxed atmosphere. Pro tip: Try a frozen, boozy “Bushwhacker" beverage.

Take a break from the beach and bar scene, and head to the National Naval Aviation Museum. Its friendly tour guides provide great information about America’s aviation heritage. There’s also a gift shop and an onsite café, if you need a coffee. If you have time, try to catch a show at the 3-D theater. Before you go, ask the museum if the Blue Angels, the Navy’s flight demonstration squadron, will be practicing. Their impressive aerial show is something you definitely won’t want to miss!

Now that you’ve taken a little break from eating, it’s back to the bar for some pirate-themed fun. Peg Leg Pete’s in Gulf Breeze is a bar and seafood restaurant that also has a children’s play area. It opened in 1991 and has been a Gulf Shores fixture ever since. The fried shrimp platter, ribeye, and "Spicy Lafitte" oysters are highly recommended.

Work off all of that delicious food at the Gulf Islands National Seashore. The bright blue-green water here is completely mesmerizing. There are 12 areas to explore here, including historic forts, picnic areas, and hiking trails.

When you’re all beached-out for the day, head to McGuire’s Irish Pub. Here, they offer traditional pub fare, and the ales are brewed in copper kettles. While you’re there, take a look up at the ceilings. More than a million dollars hang above you!

If you're looking for a fun night out, Seville Quarter is the place to go. This Gulf Coast entertainment venue has seven themed rooms, a pool hall, bars, restaurants, and a dance club. Insider tip for lovers of sweet treats: If you're eating at the restaurant, order the Bourbon Caramel Bread Pudding with Vanilla Bean Whipped Cream or the Brown Sugar Cinnamon Beignet Bites. They are to die for!

If you’re traveling with kids, and they’ve been good during your relaxing Gulf Shores getaway, you could reward them with a trip to Sam’s Fun City and Surf City. Here kids and kids at heart can ride go-karts, play arcade games or laser tag, or splash around in the water park. Adults can spend their time lounging in the 750-foot “endless river.”