Planning a frist time trip to the Mobile area in Oct. Anybody have hits or misses for me? Staying with friends so need some insights on resturants, attractions, and tours.

There is lots to do in Mobile and area. I went to College there but haven't been back in several years. The one thing I would highly recommend as far as attractions is the USS Alabama - probably the best battleship tour available.

If you are interested in Civil War history, take the short drive down to Fort Morgan (skip Fort Gains).

There is also Bellengrath Gardens (I know I spelled that wrong but it something like that) - depending on the time of year, they are marvelous.

I can't recommend any places to eat as it has been so long since I was there - but there were plenty of great seafood places around.

Gulf Shores beaches are beautiful, but it may be too cold to swim.......

I used to live on the Eastern Shore of Mobile Bay in Spanish Fort. Only about an hour from downtown Mobile is the town of Fairhope, also on the Eastern Shore. It is a quaint town and most enjoyable to stroll. I also agree with the previous entry regarding the USS Alabama.

Best restaurant: NANCEE's on the Mobile side of the bay....we call it "down the bay". Best seafood you'll ever eat. Try the West Indies Salad... expensive, but all crabmeat and absolutely to-die-for. You won't find it many places in the world. Fabulous fried shrimp, too. But all their food is good.

The Oyster House on the causeway has very good seafood (with large steamed selection).

Los Arcos has surprisingly good Mexican food (I moved from California...thus the surprise).

The Brick Pit has the best BBQ.

Cock o' the Walk is good and a fun place...."Home style" catfish/seafood restaurant. They bring platters of catfish, turnip greens, slaw, fried pickles, and cornbread (they flip it out of the pan). You will waddle when you leave.

The Dew Drop Inn is a great blue-plate special type place which specializes in scrumptious hot dogs and oyster loaves.

Chinese best is on Hillcrest Road...I think it's Peking Palace. Get the Ruby Shrimp.

Forgot to mention Guido's, out by the University. Great Italian, tiny restaurant. Make reservations.

The Gardens are wonderful and the House is devine. Also the river trip from the gardens is worth taking. You will be there all day its wonderful

Phil
Bournemouth England

Glad to hear that CockO'The Walk is still around. Had my college graduation dinner there. It is a fun place.

Definitely check out the USS Alabama! Its a great tour.
Paul

the Oyster House is right down from the USS Alabama. Great lunch place....get there early!