Welcome Centers are a wonderful place to get out of the car, find a clean restroom, and find great travel information. Today I’m sharing info and photos of two of the most welcoming Welcome Centers which I frequent as a driver on Interstate 10. I’m including lots of reasons why you should see these two I-10 Welcome Centers and be among the wanderers warmly welcomed.
Alabama
Let’s say you have been driving East from the Mississippi Gulf Coast and need a stretch break with plenty to see and do. Set your GPS for 10226 Hall Road in Grand Bay, Alabama 36541. This beautiful and spacious Welcome Center was completed in 2016 and has been called the “Grandest of All, Like the Taj Mahal!” I kid you not, folks in Alabama really do say that!
As you approach, notice the many sea creatures and coastal theme of the artwork inside and out. Once inside be sure to look at the intricate details on the floor and the ceiling. Not only can you pick up brochures, but you can also ask plenty of questions that will be kindly answered by the great staff. They can even explain some of the Mardi Gras items on display and the facts about when Mardi Gras really started in this area.
Your fabulous experience at the Grand Bay Welcome Center will get you excited to see so much more of “Sweet Home Alabama” and there is SO MUCH to see. https://alabama.travel/
Florida
After you drive from Alabama and cross into Florida, you will only need to go about 4 miles. Then you will find the Pensacola (Escambia County) Welcome Center. First you will see a Blue Angel aircraft and several other great photo ops that you will want to post on your Instagram.
Check out the great info about native bear, panther, and other animals. Then check out the adorable artwork of flamingos above the entrance. You will find wanderers warmly welcomed here as the friendly staff will offer you a free juice and excellent recommendations on whatever you may wish to do in Florida.
Pick up destination info on beaches, museums, parks, swamps, and so many other great attractions you may have never even thought of before. Read a few outside at the covered picnic tables, take a brief walk, then enjoy the remainder of your journey as you reflect on wanderers warmly welcomed. https://www.visitflorida.com/
For those who love EmbraceSouthernStates, remember to check out the Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/embracesouthernstates
And photos on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/embracesouthernstates/
PLEASE LEAVE A COMMENT ON THIS SITE…’cause you’re kind & you care! And, for goodness sake, if you love this stuff… then SHARE it with folks so they can love it, too. Thanks y’all.
I laughed when I saw the Publix sign and colors inside the Florida rest stop. I just visited one in SC and it was the wonderful woman who helped me before I even asked regarding hotel reservations. She picked up the phones and called to ask if rooms were available.
All welcome centers serve a good purpose…and these two are among the best…in my opinion. Keep enjoying your travels.
Love to read about the wonders and inspirations that are available around the states!
Domestic road trips are SO SO SO full of both wonder and inspiration!!
The Blue Angel jet is truly spectacular!
Yes, the jet at the Florida welcome center is a sight to behold! Happy Holidays to you.
Great article! We just got back from Biloxi so we traveled on the same route and saw both welcome centers, though we didn’t stop.
Thanks, Aubrey! I love brochures, so stopping at welcome centers makes perfect sense for me. You may be surprised what you’d find there.