Ashley H.
Yelp
The Wharf could be a one stop vacation, or a great weekend destination! It sits on the intracoastal canal, and boasts a marina, several restaurants, clothing and gift shops, condominiums, an amphitheater, a movie theater, a pool or two, and the one of the tallest ferris wheels in the United States, standing at 112 feet tall. The ferris wheel is only $5 per person to ride. Parking is plentiful, with parking lots and a parking garage.
If you go during the summer, be sure to catch the light show, which I believe begins around 8 pm. They play music and light the palm trees and ferris wheel in sync with the music.
It's hard to name a favorite gift shop there, but I would say Fish On A Dish is my favorite. They sell a lot of cute, local art that would make the perfect souvenir to take home or to decorate your home at the beach. They carry really cute jewelry too!
When it comes to the restaurants, it's a little harder to pick my favorite. I'd have to go with Southern Grind Coffee House. I don't drink coffee, but they have amazing ice cream! The place is also super cute!
If you're going to be in Orange Beach, definitely stop by the Wharf. If you're a local, you might even consider going for a weekend getaway.