Cities in Baldwin County, AL
Baldwin County, located in southwestern Alabama, is the largest county by area in the state. Bordered by Mobile Bay to the west and the Gulf of Mexico to the south, Baldwin County is known for its scenic coastlines, rich history, and growing population. Founded in 1809, it is named after Senator Abraham Baldwin of Georgia. The county played a significant role during the Civil War and has since evolved into a major hub for tourism and agriculture. With a mix of urban and rural areas, Baldwin County offers a diverse environment, attracting residents and visitors alike.
All Cities and Towns in Baldwin County, AL
Bay Minette
Area:
- 8.51 square miles
Population:
- Approximately 9,300
Zip Codes:
- 36507
Latitude and Longitude:
- 30.8820° N, 87.7730° W
Location and History: Bay Minette is located in the northern part of Baldwin County and serves as the county seat. Established in 1861, the town became the center of county government after a famous incident known as the “Stealing of the Courthouse,” where officials relocated records overnight. It has grown as a transportation and administrative hub for the region.
Major Schools and Landmarks: Bay Minette houses Baldwin County High School and Coastal Alabama Community College. Major landmarks include the Baldwin County Courthouse and the Holly Hills Municipal Golf Course.
Daphne
Area:
- 19.08 square miles
Population:
- Approximately 27,000
Zip Codes:
- 36526
Latitude and Longitude:
- 30.6036° N, 87.9033° W
Location and History: Daphne is situated along Mobile Bay, making it a scenic “Jubilee City” known for its seafood festivals. Established in the early 1800s, Daphne grew rapidly as a result of the nearby industrial development in Mobile. Today, it is a key residential and business community.
Major Schools and Landmarks: Daphne High School and Bayside Academy are prominent schools. Major landmarks include Village Point Park Preserve and the Bayfront Park.
Fairhope
Area:
- 12.4 square miles
Population:
- Approximately 23,000
Zip Codes:
- 36532
Latitude and Longitude:
- 30.5232° N, 87.9033° W
Location and History: Located along the eastern shore of Mobile Bay, Fairhope was founded in 1894 by a group of settlers seeking a utopian society. The city is famous for its art scene and annual Fairhope Arts and Crafts Festival. Known for its natural beauty, Fairhope has become a popular destination for tourists and new residents.
Major Schools and Landmarks: Fairhope High School and Fairhope Middle School serve the area. Major landmarks include Fairhope Pier and the Eastern Shore Art Center.
Gulf Shores
Area:
- 28.46 square miles
Population:
- Approximately 15,000
Zip Codes:
- 36542, 36547
Latitude and Longitude:
- 30.2460° N, 87.7008° W
Location and History: Gulf Shores, located on Alabama’s Gulf Coast, was incorporated in 1956 and is known for its stunning white-sand beaches. Initially a small fishing village, Gulf Shores transformed into a major tourist destination, especially after the development of the Gulf State Park and various beach resorts.
Major Schools and Landmarks: Gulf Shores High School and Gulf Shores Elementary serve the community. Major landmarks include the Gulf State Park, Waterville USA, and the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo.
Foley
Area:
- 26.36 square miles
Population:
- Approximately 20,000
Zip Codes:
- 36535, 36536
Latitude and Longitude:
- 30.4066° N, 87.6836° W
Location and History: Located inland, Foley was founded by Chicago-based businessman John Foley in 1905, who envisioned the area as a major agricultural hub. Over the years, the city grew due to its proximity to Gulf Shores and became a key retail and tourism center in Baldwin County.
Major Schools and Landmarks: Foley High School is one of the largest schools in the county. Major landmarks include the Foley Railroad Museum, the Graham Creek Nature Preserve, and OWA, an entertainment destination.
Spanish Fort
Area:
- 33.45 square miles
Population:
- Approximately 9,000
Zip Codes:
- 36527
Latitude and Longitude:
- 30.6749° N, 87.9153° W
Location and History: Spanish Fort is located on the northeastern shore of Mobile Bay. It has historical significance due to its role in the Civil War, where it served as a military fort. The city incorporated in 1993 and has since grown rapidly, becoming a suburban community for Mobile.
Major Schools and Landmarks: Spanish Fort High School serves the area. Major landmarks include the Historic Blakeley State Park and the Eastern Shore Centre.
Orange Beach
Area:
- 15.9 square miles
Population:
- Approximately 6,200
Zip Codes:
- 36561
Latitude and Longitude:
- 30.2697° N, 87.5867° W
Location and History: Orange Beach is a small city located on the Gulf of Mexico, known for its waterfront parks and marinas. Historically, the area was used for fishing and shrimping, but by the mid-20th century, it had developed into a beach resort community. It is now a key part of the Baldwin County tourism economy.
Major Schools and Landmarks: Orange Beach Elementary School serves the city. Major landmarks include The Wharf, Adventure Island, and Perdido Key.