Title: Things to Do in Gulf Coast in 2026 | Expedia.com [Gulf Coast Travel Guide](https://expedia.com/Gulf-Coast.dx6209919)[Hotels in Gulf Coast](https://expedia.com/Gulf-Coast-Hotels.d6209919.Travel-Guide-Hotels)[Flights to Gulf Coast](https://expedia.com/Cheap-Flights-To-Gulf-Coast.d6209919.Travel-Guide-Flights)[Car Rentals in Gulf Coast](https://expedia.com/Car-Rentals-In-Gulf-Coast.d6209919.Car-Rental-Guide)[Gulf Coast Vacation Packages](https://expedia.com/Gulf-Coast.d6209919.Destination-Travel-Guides) # Things to do in Gulf Coast ## Find and book activities, attractions and tours ## Visit Gulf Coast Types of activities Where to stay [Gulf Coast Travel Guide](https://expedia.com/Gulf-Coast.dx6209919) ![Higgs Beach which includes tropical scenes and a sandy beach as well as a large group of people](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6246822/2bf17c1f-eb67-4949-b1d0-9233849f4cdc.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Higgs Beach which includes tropical scenes and a sandy beach as well as a large group of people](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6246822/2bf17c1f-eb67-4949-b1d0-9233849f4cdc.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Reflections of Austin's skyline on Lady Bird Lake during a sunny day in Texas](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6162711/a646c296-b4c0-44cb-9c95-930f6fde13b1.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Gulf State Park which includes a coastal town, general coastal views and a sandy beach](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6097626/d6a0f43f-a197-4dec-992c-c36f283aa82a.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Dealey Plaza featuring a fountain](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6238542/d5855cfd-e33f-4e6d-b0a2-83071aa3930a.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ### Gulf Coast Attractions Explore the best sights in Gulf Coast with some popular [tours & day trips](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/en/search?rid=6209919&rfrr=ATG.LP.BodyContent&categories=ToursDayTrips), or check out our list of {21 fun activities in Gulf Coast [fun activities in Gulf Coast](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/en/search?rid=6209919&rfrr=ATG.LP.BodyContent)}. We have no booking fees and free cancellation, so you can rest easy and channel your energy into planning your perfect vacation. --- - ![find price illustration](https://a.travel-assets.com/travel-assets-manager/pictogram-bex/light__find_price.svg) ### Explore activities Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer. - ![calendar shield illustration](https://a.travel-assets.com/travel-assets-manager/pictogram-bex/light__calendar_shield.svg) ### Book with ease Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities. - ![trophy illustration](https://a.travel-assets.com/travel-assets-manager/pictogram-bex/light__trophy.svg) ### Treat yourself One Key members save % or more on select activities, hotels, cars and vacation rentals. [Learn about One Key](https://www.expedia.com/welcome-one-key) --- ## Gulf Coast must see attractions ### 1\. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Busch Gardens is an African-themed adventure park featuring more than 2,000 exotic animals, roller coasters, thrill rides, shows and exhibits. The 335-acre (135-hectare) site is divided into eight themed areas. Each area has its own attractions, and animals living in natural-style habitats. [Learn more ](https://www.expedia.com/Busch-Gardens-Tampa-Bay-Terrace-Park.d6048135.Vacation-Attraction) ![Busch Gardens Tampa Bay showing rides](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6048135/88f298de-d898-4d9e-b3c3-63644981d741.jpg) ### 2\. Bourbon Street Located in the middle of the French Quarter, the oldest neighborhood in New Orleans, Bourbon Street saw the growth of jazz as a new and individual music genre. It was here in the early 1900s that local musicians such as Jelly Roll Morton and King Oliver experimented and developed a sound now known as jazz. Off-beat and full of energy, Bourbon Street has come to embody the qualities this music is famous for the world over. [Learn more ](https://www.expedia.com/Bourbon-Street-French-Quarter.d6139836.Vacation-Attraction) ![Colorful neon signs illuminate Bourbon Street's vibrant nightlife in New Orleans during twilight hours](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6139836/6a201ae3-8f7e-43d5-a532-514d9fb6aee7.jpg) ### 3\. Canal Street Come to Canal Street on the first day of your visit to New Orleans to get a great sense of what the city has to offer. Rich with history and full of interesting stores, theaters, museums and other attractions, this street offers enough to keep you busy for hours. And when you are ready to see another part of the city, Canal Street’s central location means you will be able to walk to many of the other highlights of the French Quarter and beyond. [Learn more ](https://www.expedia.com/Canal-Street-New-Orleans-Central-Business-District.d6263842.Vacation-Attraction) ![Canal Street which includes railway items, street scenes and a city](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6263842/ae95d482-263e-4409-ba45-7a6fcda4a52c.jpg) ### 4\. Gulf Shores Beach Alabama’s Gulf Coast is a blend of white-sand beaches, nature refuges, family activities and oceanside dining. Parasail or play beach volleyball in the sun, then spend the afternoon in a shady coastal marsh, looking for migrating birds. Between Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, the coastline offers 32 miles (51.4 kilometers) of beaches perfect for sunset strolls, yoga at sunrise, swimming and lounging in the sun. [Learn more ](https://www.expedia.com/Gulf-Shores-Beach-Gulf-Shores.d6097624.Vacation-Attraction) ![Gulf Shores Beach showing a coastal town, general coastal views and a beach](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6097624/2652f9ba-1a48-4359-ac9e-3306e9cdfb28.jpg) ### 5\. Siesta Key Beach Siesta Beach has earned a reputation of being among the most beautiful in the United States. The beach is known for its crystal-clear water and powdery white sand, made almost entirely of pure white quartz. The soft, clean sands are reflective so it’s never too hot underfoot, despite the warm Florida sun. Siesta Key’s public beach is equipped with all the amenities necessary for a full day of relaxing on the soft sands and splashing around in the clear, shallow water. [Learn more ](https://www.expedia.com/Siesta-Key-Beach-Siesta-Key.d6066003.Vacation-Attraction) ![Southwest Florida featuring general coastal views and a beach as well as a large group of people](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6066003/ad6a01c6-1eea-49fa-a977-77719bf71f3d.jpg) ![](https://forever.travel-assets.com/flex/flexmanager/images/2026/02/06/expedia-sale-2026-desktop-us-ca.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1400&h=600&q=mediumHigh) ## The Annual Vacation Sale Members save up to 40% on hotels and homes. Plan this year’s big trip and save. [Book now](https://expedia.com/deals?rfrr=ACTIVITIES_SPRING_PROMO_6209919) ## Recommended things to do in Gulf Coast | Number of things to do | 21 | | ------------------------------- | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | Cheapest thing to do on Expedia | [Self Guided Standup Paddle Board EcoTour -Bonita Springs](/things-to-do/self-guided-standup-paddle-board-ecotour-bonita-springs.a47158161.activity-details): $30 | | Top 5 things to do | [Guided Hobie Kayak EcoTour: Premium Eco Experience Bonita Springs](/things-to-do/guided-hobie-kayak-ecotour-premium-eco-experience-bonita-springs.a46420275.activity-details)[Dolphin Wildlife Cruise Fort Myers Beach](/things-to-do/dolphin-wildlife-cruise-fort-myers-beach.a49515597.activity-details)[Guided Island EcoTour: CLEAR/Standard Kayak, SUP - Bonita Springs](/things-to-do/guided-island-ecotour-clear-standard-kayak-sup-bonita-springs.a2921940.activity-details)[Dolphin, Manatee and Sea Turtle Adventure Tour of Bonita Springs](/things-to-do/dolphin-manatee-and-sea-turtle-adventure-tour-of-bonita-springs.a49556319.activity-details)[Guided Glow LED Kayak Sunset Activity in Bonita Springs](/things-to-do/guided-glow-led-kayak-sunset-activity-in-bonita-springs.a47227279.activity-details) | | Under $25 | | | With kids | [Guided Hobie Kayak EcoTour: Premium Eco Experience Bonita Springs](/things-to-do/guided-hobie-kayak-ecotour-premium-eco-experience-bonita-springs.a46420275.activity-details)[Dolphin Wildlife Cruise Fort Myers Beach](/things-to-do/dolphin-wildlife-cruise-fort-myers-beach.a49515597.activity-details)[Dolphin, Manatee and Sea Turtle Adventure Tour of Bonita Springs](/things-to-do/dolphin-manatee-and-sea-turtle-adventure-tour-of-bonita-springs.a49556319.activity-details)[Guided Glow LED Kayak Sunset Activity in Bonita Springs](/things-to-do/guided-glow-led-kayak-sunset-activity-in-bonita-springs.a47227279.activity-details)[Elite Hobie Kayak Experience: Ultimate Premium Eco Adventure!](/things-to-do/elite-hobie-kayak-experience-ultimate-premium-eco-adventure.a46404134.activity-details) | ## What to do in Gulf Coast - With kids ### Things to Do in Gulf Coast with Kids There are loads of outstanding experiences in Gulf Coast that the whole gang will love. Here are some of the top [family friendly experiences](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/en/search?rid=6209919&rfrr=ATG.LP.BodyContent&categories=Family%20Friendly) in the area. - [Haunted Houston Walking Tour - All Ages](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/haunted-houston-walking-tour-all-ages.a558680.activity-details) - [Houston CityPASS: Admission to Top 5 Houston Attractions](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/houston-citypass-admission-to-top-5-houston-attractions.a178506.activity-details) - [Private Houston City Tour and Nasa Space Center Unlimited Time Visit](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/private-houston-city-tour-and-nasa-space-center-unlimited-time-visit.a1341311.activity-details) - [Space Center Houston Admission Ticket](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/space-center-houston-admission-ticket.a1341309.activity-details) --- Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Gulf Coast? [Search event tickets](https://www.expedia.com/event-tickets/) to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend! --- --- ### Discover the most popular places to visit in Gulf Coast ![Aerial photo Port of Tampa Florida](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6127884/01fb7c9f-75f0-485d-89b4-3ff16670be26.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Port of Tampa Explore the waterfront in Tampa with a trip to Port of Tampa. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area. [](https://expedia.com/Port-Of-Tampa-Downtown-Tampa.d6127884.Vacation-Attraction) ![Busch Gardens Tampa Bay showing rides](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6048135/88f298de-d898-4d9e-b3c3-63644981d741.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Exotic animals and thrill rides all on the one site at this theme park and zoo designed for the whole family. [](https://expedia.com/Busch-Gardens-Tampa-Bay-Terrace-Park.d6048135.Vacation-Attraction) ![Vibrant atmosphere of Bourbon Street with shops, crowds, and greenery in New Orleans](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6139836/75fad681-72ac-4154-b2e1-06b043b5b2bf.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Bourbon Street The birthplace of jazz is a vibrant city boulevard where the history and music of New Orleans comes to life. [](https://expedia.com/Bourbon-Street-French-Quarter.d6139836.Vacation-Attraction) ![Canal Street featuring signage](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6263842/f7d59059-0d9b-4c0e-89ca-d394a004164b.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Canal Street Start your exploration of New Orleans with the many attractions on this buzzing pedestrianized street, which is located right in the heart of the downtown area. [](https://expedia.com/Canal-Street-New-Orleans-Central-Business-District.d6263842.Vacation-Attraction) ![huge cruise liner stands off the coast of Vancouver Canada Place flag flying over the Pacific Ocean sails a beautiful view of the city on the water Canada 2023](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6257015/78176553-254b-4336-922f-29bf0914bba5.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Port of Galveston Cruise Terminal Explore the waterfront in Galveston with a trip to Port of Galveston Cruise Terminal. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in the area. [](https://expedia.com/Port-Of-Galveston-Cruise-Terminal-Strand-Historic-District.d6257015.Vacation-Attraction) ![Gulf Shores Beach showing a coastal town, general coastal views and a beach](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6097624/2652f9ba-1a48-4359-ac9e-3306e9cdfb28.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Gulf Shores Beach For the complete beach experience, visit this well-groomed swath of sand on the Gulf Coast, with thoughtful amenities and a convenient and central location. [](https://expedia.com/Gulf-Shores-Beach-Gulf-Shores.d6097624.Vacation-Attraction) ![Southwest Florida featuring general coastal views and a beach as well as a large group of people](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6066003/ad6a01c6-1eea-49fa-a977-77719bf71f3d.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Siesta Key Beach The soft, white sand on Siesta Key’s award-winning family-friendly beach is perfect for relaxing under a sun umbrella and taking part in a game of volleyball. [](https://expedia.com/Siesta-Key-Beach-Siesta-Key.d6066003.Vacation-Attraction) ![Lifeguard lookout post at Navarre beach Florida](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/183109/45a69ffa-cdf6-4204-be58-aaaeca38e288.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Navarre Beach Head over to Navarre Beach, a favorite beach in Navarre to enjoy the surf and sand, along with fishing. Wander the seaside or discover the sunsets in this relaxing area. [](https://expedia.com/Navarre-Beach-Navarre.d183109.Vacation-Attraction) ![Texans Vs Bears ](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/1503/e9e0c365-cf4d-4e4b-b714-f9dd65c34baf.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### NRG Stadium Catch an event at NRG Stadium during your trip to Houston. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area. [](https://expedia.com/NRG-Stadium-Astrodome.d553248635929331916.Vacation-Attraction) ### Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Gulf Coast ![Beach Living at Rosemary Beach, Florida; Shutterstock ID 432580411; Purchase Order: -](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6139932/09b32d32-bffd-47f7-bf0e-a99766ec0476.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Rosemary Beach 4.5/5(40 area reviews) Experience European Colonial charm in this Gulf Coast community, offering warm waters, beach activities, and a mixed-use town center with shops, restaurants, and live music at Peddler's Pavilion. Explore nearby parks and trails for a dose of nature. [](https://expedia.com/Panama-City-Beach-Rosemary-Beach.dx6139932) ![R3YH4J Vacation townhomes, Seacrest Beach, Florida, USA](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/553248635077613214/4faccbc9-74c2-4419-9d8f-38e0e3d1101c.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Seacrest Seacrest is noteworthy for its beaches, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Alys Beach and Seacrest Beach. [](https://expedia.com/Panama-City-Beach-Seacrest.dx553248635077613214) ![Okaloosa Island which includes a sandy beach](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6065716/9c643978-58cc-4053-802f-593ff2fa5f9d.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Okaloosa Island The perfect place for a romantic getaway or a family weekend retreat, this is an unforgettable shoreline delight. [](https://expedia.com/Fort-Walton-Beach-Okaloosa-Island.dx6065716) ![Vibrant atmosphere in the French Quarter showcasing culture and community on a sunny day](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/800072/d97dfdd9-81f2-4601-a10e-054fee1acd4f.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### French Quarter 4.5/5(9,221 area reviews) Historic buildings and lively atmosphere entice tourists and locals alike, offering live music, street performances, and vibrant nightlife. Must-see spots include Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral, and Café du Monde. [](https://expedia.com/New-Orleans-French-Quarter.dx800072) ![Seaside which includes a coastal town and general coastal views](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/183119/cd77d373-abdd-4889-919c-5bcd5e98845f.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Seaside 4/5(1 area review) This unincorporated area on Florida's Panhandle boasts a Seaside Farmers Market and a picturesque interfaith chapel. Explore the town center and stroll along pedestrian alleys radiating from the heart of the community. [](https://expedia.com/Santa-Rosa-Beach-Seaside.dx183119) ![Fort Walton Beach which includes a sunset and a sandy beach](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/156147/691999ec-be31-4710-80cc-b6711724df8f.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Seagrove Beach 4.5/5(27 area reviews) On this shoreline on the Gulf of Mexico you’ll find a wonderful beachside hamlet and plenty of spots to play and relax. [](https://expedia.com/Santa-Rosa-Beach-Seagrove-Beach.dx156147) [See our Where To Stay guide](https://expedia.com/Gulf-Coast.dx6209919.Where-To-Stay?rfrr=TG.LP..Neighborhoods) --- Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check [things to do near me](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do-near-me) to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be. --- ## Popular day trips from Gulf Coast ![Beaumont](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/667/7da35f99-01c5-4c57-a784-201363a56e95.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium) ### Beaumont ![Howard Wilkinson Bridge showing a river or creek, a sunset and a bridge](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6077126/3acc5e27-4e60-46ce-a921-e124824cfe47.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium) ### Baton Rouge ![Vibrant waterfront view of Corpus Christi showcasing urban skyline and sailing activity on a clear day](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/915/65edc503-b0d4-4790-93d1-df0f7c0ef18f.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium) ### Corpus Christi ![Galveston which includes street scenes, a city and a house](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/1341/7cbb5503-2297-45f0-bcd7-503ec3297ae4.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium) ### Galveston ![Bayou View featuring a park](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/553248621532653302/a366c8d2-d961-463a-8a8e-c6fba3a07149.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium) ### Gulfport ![Discovery Green](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6082195/54ba655e-d89e-4fad-93e3-94a7a2aab736.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium) ### Houston ![Beach condos, hotel with swimming pool, boardwalk access to sandy shoreline tropical South Beach, South Padre Island, exquisite barrier Gulf Coast of Texas, people enjoy beach activities aerial](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/1515/72916b6c-9126-4460-883a-7e0e2c7f43c5.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium) ### Harlingen ![Lake Charles showing a lake or waterhole and a sunset](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/2029/a56a0532-e348-496d-b7d0-89a593f974ed.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium) ### Lake Charles ## Frequently asked questions ### What to do in Gulf Coast on a sunny day? > - [Haunted Houston Walking Tour - All Ages](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/haunted-houston-walking-tour-all-ages.a558680.activity-details) > - [Good Vibes Surf Lessons](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/good-vibes-surf-lessons.a661373.activity-details) > - [Guided Oak Alley Plantation & 3-Hour City Tour Combo](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/guided-oak-alley-plantation-3-hour-city-tour-combo.a572231.activity-details) > - [Customizable Plantation & optional Swamp Tour](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/customizable-plantation-optional-swamp-tour.a572177.activity-details) ### What to do in Gulf Coast on a rainy day? > - [Spa-Quality On Demand Massage - Houston](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/spa-quality-on-demand-massage-houston.a2174845.activity-details) > - [Houston Party Shuttle](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/houston-party-shuttle.a641869.activity-details) > - [Houston Museum of Natural Science General Admission](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/houston-museum-of-natural-science-general-admission.a641605.activity-details) > - [Shop & Play at Hillsboro Outlets](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/shop-play-at-hillsboro-outlets.a245165.activity-details) ### What is Gulf Coast famous for? > - Walt Disney World® > - SeaWorld® Orlando > - PortMiami > - Universal Studios Florida ### What should I not miss in Gulf Coast? > - Port Everglades > - Port Canaveral > - Magic Kingdom® Park > - Orange County Convention Center ### Are there cheap things to do in Gulf Coast? > - [St Augustine History Museum](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/st-augustine-history-museum.a246155.activity-details) > - [Theme Park Express Transportation to Walt Disney World & Universal Orlando](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/theme-park-express-transportation-to-walt-disney-world-universal-orlando.a2411140.activity-details) > - [Qigong Class](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/qigong-class.a1359049.activity-details) > - [Lazer Tag](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/lazer-tag.a672926.activity-details) ### What can you do in Gulf Coast for free? > - PortMiami > - River Walk > - Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center > - University of Florida ![](https://a.travel-assets.com/mad-service/footer/bnaBanners/BEX_Footer.jpg) ## Go further with the Expedia app Save even more - get up to 20% on select hotels when you book on the app. Our app deals help you to save on trips so you can travel more and manage it all on the go. Scan the QR code with your device camera and download our app