What is the difference between Gulf Shores & Destin?

I%26#39;ve been the last 2 summers to Destin,FL. Now this year we are thinking of going to Gulf Shores or Orange Beach for some thing different. Have never been there. Is there plenty to do for 2 girls 19 %26amp; 11 %26amp; mom %26amp; dad?

What is the difference between Gulf Shores %26amp; Destin?

I%26#39;m sure you%26#39;ll get many responses but in my mind, GS is way less developed and more about the beach. Easier to get around as well.

Here%26#39;s some activities:

1) Waterparks:

a) Waterville USA- closest to the beach on 59 (roughly a mile) and arguably the biggest. Have not been there.

b) The Track- located across 59 from the Welcome Center (coupons available there for the Track) and next to the airport. Has 2 really good go-kart tracks according to my 17 and 15 year old nephews. Buy tickets at the sales office before going to the ride(s). Huge bungee cord thingie as well.

2) Zoo- featured on Animal Planet’s “the little zoo that could” about evacuating animals preceding Hurricane Ivan.

3) The Wharf- ferris wheel, shopping, amphitheater

4) Fort Morgan

5) Naval Museum in Pensacola- LOTS of airplanes. Fun for all ages. They currently have a learning game kids can follow along with through the museum that gives you discounts/prizes at the gift shop at the end.

6) USS Alabama in Mobile

7) golf

What is the difference between Gulf Shores %26amp; Destin?

On any given day in the summer, the difference between Gulf Shores and Destin is about 100,000 people. Most of them clogging the streets in Destin.

Good recs from previous poster. You might also do a search on this forum for ';activities'; and ';restaurants';. Lots of good info.

With the gas prices being unknown by summer,

Gulf shores is so the better choice,

It is a wonderful place, and I see you are in arkansas like my self.

It is just not worth the extra drive, to destin, when you have gulf shores, closer..

Not any difference in gulf shores and orange beach..

We pretty much use both areas to eat and shop..

they just are one big long beach area....

The choice between gulf shores and orange beach should just come down to getting the best deal on a house or condo...

In Destin you many more choices of places to eat - especially places on the water ( which is a plus to me and mine ) Gulf Shores/Orange beach is a lot less crowded, but any beach in the summer will be crowded.

Both have their good points, but I like Destin by a submission in the late first round.

OK now to find a condo for a decent price. Any suggestions on great condos that you%26#39;ve stayed at. I%26#39;m not wanting to spend more than $950 for 2 bdrm/2bath for 7 nights.