A Quick Weekend Guide to Mobile, Alabama

Alabama’s port city. And the OGs of celebrating mardi gras #theydiditfirst

Mobile was founded in 1702 by the French as the first capital of Louisiana, which is why you’ll feel a strong sense of French culture mixed with Creole in the city. The street names in the downtown area are mostly French, and the architecture is very similar to what you’d see in New Orleans. And (wow) the city of Mobile celebrates Mardi Gras like the rest of America celebrates a national holiday (all of the houses are decked, the city hosts multiple parades, coffee shops/bars create entire menus that featured Mardi Gras-themed beverages, etc.).

Incorporated as a city in 1819, Mobile has grown to be the fourth-most populous city in Alabama (behind Huntsville, Birmingham and Montgomery). It’s a quick trip from Auburn, so George and I decided to make the drive down to MobTown to experience the Port City.

Where to Stay

When I travel, I enjoy staying at local spots that embrace the region’s culture. We decided to stay at the beautiful Fort Conde Inn for our weekend and loved it. The Inn is very close to downtown while being tucked away in a quaint little neighborhood filled with homes that have beautiful front porches. They also have a bistro across the street where you can pop over for breakfast!

Alternate Option:

The Malaga Inn

What to Do

Explore Dauphin Street. This street is loaded with bars and restaurants, plus it’s where most of the action happens downtown (like the parades)! You’ll wander by a number of little parks as you explore, too.
USS Alabama. This former WWII battleship is docked in Mobile’s harbor and available for visitors to tour. You can explore the main deck as well as different rooms below deck. I got a little tripped out walking through all of the portal doors, but it was really interesting to see the different sections of the ship, catching a glimpse of a “day in the life”. I would highly recommend visiting - it was one of my favorite memories of our trip. However, be sure to bring layers … it gets windy on the bay!
Local events. We ended up stumbling upon the city during Senior Bowl Weekend, so we were able to witness a fun parade and a concert in Cathedral Square by Portugal. The Man! We actually got all the scoop from our waitress at Squid Ink (she was awesome).
Mobile Mural. You can find this colorful wall on the side of Post (cocktail spot) at the intersection of Dauphin and Warren St.
The Cathedral of Immaculate Conception. This Catholic Cathedral-Basilica is the seat for the Archbishop of Mobile and was established in 1703. The interior of the church is stunning and their organ claims to have over 3,000 pipes!
Mardi Gras Museum. If you’re traveling during Mardi Gras month (which I would recommend!), pay a visit to their museum. Plus, be sure to check out the parade schedule!
Bellingrath Estate. A classic southern property with lots of garden space. Alabama tends to bloom in late March and continue through early June, so that would be an optimal time to visit the gardens!

What to Eat & Drink

Nova Espresso. Trendy coffee shop just a few block up from Dauphin Street. They sling a great chai latte and have a fun Mardi Gras coffee menu, too.
Squid Ink Eats. One of George and I’s favorite spots! They actually won Mobile’s “Most Innovative Menu” in 2021. My favorite cocktail of the weekend was consumed here: The Queen Victoria. More casual vibe - you can’t go wrong with the menu.
Noble South. Modern, southern fare with a focus on sourcing regional ingredients. We made a dinner reservation here and rolled home. You can’t miss their brussel sprouts. Some of the best we’ve ever had! Upscale.
Post. Lively cocktail bar. They were decked out for Mardi Gras season and featured a fun Mardi Gras-themed menu. They switch up recipes each weekend and make it fun by adding in “comes with a confetti popper” or “accompanied by a slice of King’s Cake” so you’re never bored. Be sure to follow them on social for the latest libation news.
Dumbwaiter. This spot came highly recommended by a friend. We didn’t get to eat here, but will visit next trip!
The Haberdasher. Another fun cocktail bar located off of Dauphin Street. We would have popped in for a bourbon cocktail if it had been a tad warmer outside!

Enjoy your visit to MobTown!

A Quick Weekend Guide to Mobile, Alabama

Where to Stay

What to Do

What to Eat & Drink

Living & Local