Pack a picnic lunch and gather the family for a day at one of the local public parks. Johnnie Sims Park is the largest city park in Gulf Shores. Here you’ll find the Gulf Shores Kids Park, designed by the children of Pleasure Island and custom-built by over 1,500 volunteers in less than six days (open daily till dusk). Sims Park also features the David L. Bodenhamer Center for fitness and recreation, a Skate Park, 12 tennis courts, soccer fields, baseball diamonds, an outdoor pavilion for picnics and more. Located at 2008 West 3rd Street, Gulf Shores, fees apply for the fitness and recreation facilities, call 251-968-1420 for complete information.

Other public parks in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach include:
Gulf Shores Wetlands Nature Park: Enjoy outdoor recreation, fishing ponds, nature trails, benches and two lighted gazebos. Location: 19025 Oak Road West, Gulf Shores.

Meyer Park: A 12-acre park offering picnic shelters and tables, plus playground equipment, a baseball diamond, and horseshoe pits. Location: 400 East 22nd Avenue, Gulf Shores

Orange Beach Waterfront Park: Overlooking beautiful Wolf Bay, you can enjoy a fishing pier, picnic shelters with grills, paved walking paths, and a lighted kid’s park. Pets are allowed but must be on a leash and cleaned up after. Location: 26425 Canal Road, Orange Beach.

Wade Ward Nature Park: A scenic 12-acre park featuring a pavilion, benches and boardwalks overlooking coastal salt marshes. Location: 500 Gulf Shores Parkway, Gulf Shores.

For more information, visit www.gulfshores.com.