Mobile, Alabama, is one of those iconic cities that you have probably heard of but never visited. But, from food to Carnival celebrations, this is one place that should be on your travel planning calendar. This is probably the reason the city slogan is Born to Celebrate Mobile.
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Let’s start with Mardi Gras whom locals believe actually started here more than 300 years ago. Mystic societies spend all year preparing for about three weeks of revelry. Parades start on Fat Tuesday and include parades where the float riders toss everything from colorful beaded necklaces and Moon Pies to eager onlookers.
Mobilian’s seem to be crazy for Moon Pies and you can find them in desserts such as the Moon Pie banana pudding at Spot of Tea and at the Moon Pie General Store. They also have a 600-lb electronic version that drops along the side of a building on New Year’s Eve.
You can enjoy some of the best beignets you might ever taste at Panini Pete’s who has been on the Food Network several times. At the Dew Drop Inn they have been making their pork and beef hot dogs since the 1924 and are a local favorite. Afterwards, head to Cammie’s Old Dutch Ice Cream Shoppe where the owner creates creamy flavor sensations that even include an ice cream made from; you guessed it, Moon Pies!
Mobile’s skyline is gorgeous when lit up in various colors at night. One of the best ways to see this is to schedule a dinner cruise aboard the Perdido Queen Dinner Cruise. This leisurely paddlewheel boat chugs its way up Mobile River with great food and amazing views of the city lights.
Come to Mobile for some great food, sights, and down-home southern hospitality.
~ Ron Stern, Travel Photojournilist, visit www.globalgumshoe.com for more about Ron.