When I first took the leap from corporate to starting my small business, I wanted flexibility more than anything. I wanted to be able to travel without getting approval first. Whether you own a small business too or are still working in a corporate job, I get it. Sometimes you just need a break, a chance to recharge and come back feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the next challenge.

That’s why we’ve pulled together a list of my favorite places to visit in Fairhope, Birmingham, and along the Gulf Coast. These are the spots that offer a perfect blend of relaxation, fun, and even a little team-building potential (because let’s be honest, sometimes the best bonding happens outside the office).

So, pack your bags, grab your team, your family, (or just yourself!), and get ready to explore some of Alabama’s hidden gems:

Visit Fairhope, Alabama

• Watch the Sunset: Bucky’s or the Legion
• Go Shopping: There are so many great places to shop in downtown Fairhope with over 20 women’s clothing boutiques. A few of our favorites include Sway, Christa Lynn’s, Living Well, Happy Olive, 5 Gold Monkeys, and Adrenaline
• The Sights: ride around and look at the homes down scenic 98
• The Grand Hotel: If you haven’t been here yet, it’s a must. And don’t forget to feed the ducks.
• Where to Stay: other great places to stay include Jubilee Suites and Lucia Blue
• Eat Out: Red or White, Tamaras, Provision, and Bay Breeze

The Gulf Coast

• Gulf State Park: Discover miles of pristine beaches, nature trails, a butterfly garden, and the largest fishing pier in the Gulf of Mexico (currently under repair). It’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and families looking for some quality beach time.
• Go Shopping: Luca and Seaside Swim at the Wharf and Blue Lagoon at San Roc Cay
• The Beach: Johnson Beach
• Eat Out: Coastal, LuLus, Flora-Bama Yatch Club, catch the sunset at OSO, and grab a bushwacker from Tacky Jacks near Canal in OBA

If you find yourself in Birmingham

Eating, shopping, and exploring are the name of the game in Birmingham. Here are a few of our must see places:

• Get outside! Go for a hike out a Oak Mountain State Park, Red Mountain Park, go for a stroll downtown at Railroad Park, or catch a Baron’s baseball game at Regions Park.
• Go Eat: There are so many places to choose from but a few of our favorites include O Carr’s in Homewood, Pablo’s at the Colonnade, The Front Porch in Ross Bridge, Bottega Cafe for lunch (order the orange thing!), and Davenport’s Pizza in Mountain Brook.
• Go Shopping: Your best best is visiting downtown Homewood, Mountain Brook Village, or Cahaba Heights (behind the Summit). There are so many great shops to choose from!
• Places to Visit: Vulcan Park, Sloss Furnaces, Birmingham Museum of Art
• Relax: We highly recommend a spa day at Birch Tree Day Spa!

Remember, summer is a time for relaxation and rejuvenation. These diverse destinations offer something for everyone, making them ideal escapes for small business owners and their teams. So, take a break, explore the wonders of Alabama, and create lasting memories that will boost your energy and inspire you to tackle the rest of the year with renewed energy!

And please let us know if you’re coming to town! We’d love to meet up!

Kassady & Stuart