5 Star Places To Visit in Gulf Shores, Alabama, United States (3) 5.0 Gulf Shores Welcome Center (478 reviews) - Must stop in Gulf Shores!! Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Visitor Centers Both welcome centers are open seven days a week. The centers are closed on Easter, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. See more.. 5.0 Sandcastle University (28 reviews) - Highly recommend! Wednesday: 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Lessons & Workshops Sand Castle University specializes in teaching tips, tricks, and secrets of building the best Sand Castles to groups of all ages and skill levels. We meet you at your beach location of choice! See more.. 5.0 Pottery Central World Headquarters (14 reviews) - Amazing store with lots of home decor Art Galleries Working studio open by appointment or chance. See more..