Lovin' Some Art

I’ve discovered a new love: art. I really started exploring my artistic side over the summer, and I’m even taking a beginner art class this semester.

And I love checking out the local art of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. LuLu’s Fresh Art Market has been a fun activity this summer (it’s every Saturday until Labor Day). Not only are the arts and crafts from local artists, but part of the sales proceeds go to the Baldwin County Public Schools fine arts department—so it’s buying for a good cause! I also have a renewed interest in the local museums and art galleries, particularly the Orange Beach Art Center (also local artists).

It’s really pretty inspiring to see others’ interpretations of the area. OrangeBeachToday.com has listings of area art galleries and museums.

Free Activities

Let’s face it: summer jobs for vacationing students just don’t pay that well. On top of that, I’m trying to save some money to put toward a car. So there just isn’t much left over for recreation.

Luckily, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach offer lots of activities that don’t cost anything. Hands down, the beaches alone are a great place to just hang out, walk around, sun bathe, play a little beach volleyball…whatever. It never gets old. And I’ve mentioned before how I like nature—the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry trail is an awesome hiking/biking trail. And if you like history (one of my favorite subjects), there are tons of places to visit: the Gulf Shores Museum is pretty neat, and the Civil War Trail combines nature and history.

If you need more ideas, Brett/Robinson provides an excellent “Free and Fabulous” itinerary. Check it out here.