Cities in Baldwin County, Alabama
Baldwin County is the largest county by area in Alabama, located in the southwestern part of the state along the Gulf of Mexico. Known for its rich history, diverse landscapes, and growing population, Baldwin County offers a unique blend of coastal beauty, agricultural heritage, and urban development. Founded in 1809, Baldwin County has a long history tied to Native American cultures, European colonization, and the Civil War. Today, the county is a thriving hub for tourism, industry, and agriculture. It encompasses a mix of large cities, small towns, and rural areas, with a total of 14 incorporated cities and towns. Its prime location along the Gulf Coast and proximity to Mobile make it an attractive place to live, work, and visit.
Bay Minette
City Overview
Bay Minette is the county seat of Baldwin County, located in the northern part of the county. The city has a rich history, dating back to the early 1800s when it was founded as a transportation hub for the timber industry. In 1901, Bay Minette became the county seat after a dramatic and somewhat controversial relocation of government records from Daphne. Today, Bay Minette serves as the administrative and economic center of Baldwin County, offering a quiet, small-town atmosphere while being close to major transportation routes. The city is known for its historic downtown area, friendly community, and access to nearby outdoor recreational activities, such as hiking and fishing in nearby forests and rivers.
City Facts
- Population: Approximately 9,300
- Household Income: Median household income around $39,000
- Airports: Mobile Regional Airport (45 miles away)
- Highways: U.S. Route 31, Alabama State Route 59
Major Landmarks and Hotels
Bay Minette offers a mix of historical and natural landmarks. The Baldwin County Courthouse is an iconic historical site, representing the town’s rich past. For outdoor activities, the nearby Holly Hills Municipal Golf Course and the Forever Wild Land Trust’s Splinter Hill Bog are popular destinations. In terms of accommodations, Bay Minette offers a variety of options, including Hampton Inn, Windwood Inn, and several budget-friendly motels. Visitors can enjoy local dining and a stroll through the quaint downtown area, which features shops and restaurants that highlight the city’s Southern charm.
Daphne
City Overview
Daphne, often referred to as the “Jubilee City,” is located on the eastern shore of Mobile Bay. The city earned its nickname due to the natural phenomenon known as “jubilee,” where sea creatures like crabs and fish are occasionally pushed toward the shore, making them easy to catch. Daphne was originally settled by Native Americans and later by European settlers in the 1700s. Over the years, it has grown into a thriving suburban community, serving as a popular residential area for those working in nearby Mobile. The city’s scenic location along the bay, combined with its excellent schools and family-friendly environment, makes it one of the fastest-growing cities in Baldwin County.
City Facts
- Population: Approximately 28,000
- Household Income: Median household income around $68,000
- Airports: Mobile Regional Airport (30 miles away)
- Highways: Interstate 10, U.S. Route 98
Major Landmarks and Hotels
Daphne is home to several key landmarks and accommodations. Village Point Park Preserve, one of the city’s most significant natural areas, offers a beautiful bayfront view and hiking trails. The Daphne Museum highlights the city’s history, while nearby historic sites like the Old Methodist Church Museum offer insights into its past. Major hotels in Daphne include Hilton Garden Inn, Hampton Inn, and La Quinta Inn & Suites, catering to tourists and business travelers. The city’s location along Mobile Bay provides visitors with access to waterfront parks, restaurants, and the nearby Mobile-Tensaw Delta, perfect for eco-tourism activities.
Fairhope
City Overview
Fairhope, located along the eastern shore of Mobile Bay, is renowned for its picturesque scenery, vibrant arts community, and high quality of life. Established in 1894 by a group of idealists seeking to create a single-tax colony, Fairhope has evolved into a charming and prosperous city. Known for its walkable downtown, excellent schools, and lively cultural scene, the city attracts artists, retirees, and young families alike. Fairhope’s location along the bay offers stunning sunsets, making it a popular destination for tourists. The city’s unique history, small-town atmosphere, and well-preserved public parks make it one of Baldwin County’s most sought-after residential areas.
City Facts
- Population: Approximately 24,000
- Household Income: Median household income around $69,000
- Airports: Mobile Regional Airport (35 miles away)
- Highways: U.S. Route 98, Alabama State Route 181
Major Landmarks and Hotels
Fairhope is known for its rich arts and cultural scene, with landmarks such as the Fairhope Pier, a popular spot for fishing and enjoying views of Mobile Bay, and the Eastern Shore Art Center, which hosts rotating exhibits and events. The Fairhope Municipal Park offers walking trails and scenic views, while the Fairhope Museum of History showcases the town’s origins. For accommodations, Fairhope offers a variety of options, including The Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa, a historic resort known for its luxury and scenic setting, and smaller boutique hotels like The Hampton Inn and Key West Inn. Visitors can enjoy shopping and dining in the charming downtown area, filled with art galleries, cafés, and local boutiques.
Gulf Shores
City Overview
Gulf Shores is a coastal city located on Alabama’s Gulf Coast, known for its white sandy beaches, family-friendly atmosphere, and abundant outdoor activities. The city was incorporated in 1956 and has since grown into a major tourist destination, particularly during the summer months. Gulf Shores attracts visitors for its pristine beaches, golf courses, and annual events such as the Hangout Music Festival and the National Shrimp Festival. Beyond tourism, Gulf Shores has a growing residential population, with families and retirees drawn to its relaxed, beachside lifestyle. The city is also known for its environmental efforts to preserve the delicate coastal ecosystem.
City Facts
- Population: Approximately 15,000
- Household Income: Median household income around $50,000
- Airports: Pensacola International Airport (40 miles away)
- Highways: Alabama State Route 59, Alabama State Route 182
Major Landmarks and Hotels
Gulf Shores is home to numerous landmarks and accommodations catering to the tourism industry. The Gulf State Park, which features over 6,000 acres of preserved land, is one of the city’s premier attractions, offering beaches, hiking trails, and a fishing pier. The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is another popular family-friendly destination. In terms of accommodations, Gulf Shores offers a wide range of hotels and resorts, including the beachfront Hilton Garden Inn, the luxury beachfront condos at The Beach Club Resort, and more affordable options like the Hampton Inn Gulf Shores. The city’s main beach area is lined with restaurants, shops, and entertainment options, making it a lively area for visitors year-round.
Orange Beach
City Overview
Orange Beach is a neighboring coastal city to Gulf Shores, located on Alabama’s Gulf Coast. Like Gulf Shores, Orange Beach is known for its stunning white sand beaches and a vibrant tourism industry. The city is particularly popular for water sports, boating, and fishing, with the nearby Perdido Pass offering access to the Gulf of Mexico. Orange Beach has a more relaxed and upscale atmosphere compared to Gulf Shores, attracting families, retirees, and vacationers looking for a quieter beach experience. In recent years, Orange Beach has seen significant growth in both its tourism and residential sectors, making it one of the fastest-growing cities in Baldwin County.
City Facts
- Population: Approximately 8,500
- Household Income: Median household income around $61,000
- Airports: Pensacola International Airport (30 miles away)
- Highways: Alabama State Route 161, Alabama State Route 182
Major Landmarks and Hotels
Orange Beach offers a variety of attractions and accommodations to suit different visitor needs. The Wharf is one of the city’s major landmarks, offering shopping, dining, and entertainment options, including a marina and a Ferris wheel. The Orange Beach Waterfront Park provides a family-friendly area for picnics and fishing. Popular hotels include the Perdido Beach Resort, known for its beachfront location and family-friendly amenities, and The Island House Hotel, offering a more boutique experience. For those looking for luxury, Turquoise Place offers high-end condo rentals with stunning Gulf views. Visitors can also enjoy dolphin cruises, fishing charters, and other water activities that make Orange Beach a top destination for water sports enthusiasts.
Foley
City Overview
Foley is located just north of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, serving as a gateway to Alabama’s Gulf Coast. Founded in 1905 by John B. Foley, a businessman from Chicago, the city quickly developed into a regional agricultural hub, known for its produce and timber industries. Today, Foley retains its agricultural roots while also embracing tourism and retail development. The city is home to the popular Tanger Outlets shopping center, which draws visitors from across the region. With a growing population and proximity to the beach, Foley has become a popular residential community for families and retirees alike.
City Facts
- Population: Approximately 21,000
- Household Income: Median household income around $47,000
- Airports: Pensacola International Airport (40 miles away)
- Highways: U.S. Route 98, Alabama State Route 59
Major Landmarks and Hotels
Foley offers a variety of attractions and accommodations for visitors. The Foley Railroad Museum, housed in the city’s old train depot, is a notable landmark that showcases the city’s history. Foley’s downtown area features antique shops, local restaurants, and the Heritage Park, which hosts seasonal events like the annual Hot Air Balloon Festival. Popular hotels in Foley include Hampton Inn, Holiday Inn Express, and the Comfort Suites, all catering to visitors looking to shop at Tanger Outlets or enjoy a short drive to the beach. The OWA amusement park, located just outside Foley, has become a major entertainment destination for families visiting the area.
