Alabama Road Trip with Kids: Giants, Gators, and the Gulf (Day 12)
Welcome to Day 12: Wild Encounters & Coastal Calm
If you’re looking for things to do with kids in southern Alabama, Day 12 takes you from quirky science parks to marshy boardwalks—and ends with toes in the sand at the Gulf.
If your kids are reading Ethan & Oliver Adventures: The Great Alabama Road Trip, this blog follows their wild and wonder-filled Day 12—from roaring dinosaurs, chomping alligators to quiet beach sunsets.
📍 Day 12 Itinerary Overview:
Lenox ➡️ Summerdale ➡️ Gulf Shores
Total Drive Time: ~3 hours
Total Distance: ~160 miles
Stop 1: Dinosaur Adventure Land (Lenox, AL)
What to Expect:
A volunteer-run, creation-themed science park filled with fossils, zip lines, and hands-on demonstrations for kids of all ages.
Kid-Friendly Tip:
Let your kids ask big questions about creation and science—it’s okay not to have all the answers!
Notebook Prompt:
If you could ask a paleontologist one question, what would it be?
Educational Tie-In:
Covers paleontology, Biblical aspects of creation, and active STEM learning.
Faith Tie-In:
Genesis 1:25 — “God made the wild animals according to their kinds.”
Optional Add-On:
Read Dinosaurs of Eden by Ken Ham or explore more resources at Answers in Genesis ›
Stop 2: Alligator Alley (Summerdale, AL)
What to Expect:
Raised boardwalks, gator feedings, a live educational show, and the chance to hold a baby alligator!
Kid-Friendly Tip:
Talk about predator-prey balance and God’s creativity in ecosystems.
Notebook Prompt:
What surprised you most about alligators?
Educational Tie-In:
Zoology, wetland ecosystems, and responsible wildlife stewardship.
Faith Tie-In:
Job 12:7–10 — “Ask the animals, and they will teach you…”
Parent Tip:
Closed-toe shoes and hand sanitizer recommended!
Stop 3: Gulf State Park & The Lodge (Gulf Shores, AL)
What to Expect:
White sand beaches, paved bike trails, a nature center, and eco-friendly beachfront lodging at The Lodge.
Kid-Friendly Tip:
Stop by the Nature Center and let the kids help plan a future camping trip.
Notebook Prompt:
Why do you think the beach feels so peaceful?
Educational Tie-In:
Marine ecosystems, sustainable tourism, and Alabama geography.
Faith Tie-In:
Psalm 95:5 — “The sea is his, for he made it.”
Don’t Miss:
A simple beachy patio recipe for your dinner at The Lodge—click here to try it ›
What We Learned Today:
- Science and faith can spark imagination, not conflict
- Even “scary” creatures have a role in God’s creation
- Nature has a way of resetting hearts after adventure
Read the Story Version:
This adventure is featured in Day 12 of Ethan & Oliver Adventures: The Great Alabama Road Trip, where dinosaurs, gators, and sea breezes become part of their family’s journey.
📬 Coming Up Next:
Day 13 – Battleships, Mardi Gras & Goodbye to the Gulf ** Our Grand Finale **
If you haven’t yet, visit our Roadtrippers Alabama route!
Disclaimer: This post is not sponsored or affiliated with any organization, attraction, or company mentioned. All opinions are my own, and all recommendations are based on our personal family experiences while researching and writing the Ethan & Oliver Adventures series.
