Mobile, Alabama, is a historic port city located on the Gulf Coast, known for its vibrant culture, deep history, and Southern charm. As one of the oldest cities in the United States, Mobile offers a rich blend of historical significance, modern attractions, and natural beauty, making it a desirable place to live and visit. Below is a detailed description of the city, incorporating the specified bullet points.
City Charter Date – Mobile was founded by French settlers in 1702 and incorporated as a city in 1814, making it one of the oldest cities in the United States. Its rich history, shaped by French, Spanish, British, and American influences, is evident in the city’s architecture, traditions, and culture.
Current Population – As of the latest estimates, Mobile has a population of approximately 185,000 people. It is the fourth-largest city in Alabama and continues to serve as a key economic, cultural, and industrial hub along the Gulf Coast.
Elevation – Mobile sits at a relatively low elevation of around 10 feet (3 meters) above sea level. Its location near the Gulf of Mexico and Mobile Bay provides the city with access to waterways and scenic coastal views, making it an important port and shipping center.
Weather – Mobile experiences a humid subtropical climate, which includes hot, humid summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures often reach highs around 90°F (32°C), while winter temperatures range from 40°F (4°C) to 60°F (15°C). The city receives substantial rainfall, averaging around 66 inches per year, and it is occasionally affected by tropical storms and hurricanes due to its coastal location.
Main Attractions – Mobile is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Some of the city’s main attractions include:
- USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park: A popular destination where visitors can tour the WWII-era battleship USS Alabama, as well as other historic military aircraft and vessels.
- GulfQuest National Maritime Museum: An interactive museum that celebrates Mobile’s maritime heritage and the history of the Gulf of Mexico.
- Mobile Carnival Museum: Mobile is the birthplace of Mardi Gras in the United States, and this museum showcases the colorful history and traditions of the city’s famous Mardi Gras celebrations.
- Bellingrath Gardens and Home: A beautiful 65-acre estate featuring vibrant gardens and the historic Bellingrath home, open to visitors year-round.
Government Type – Mobile operates under a mayor-council form of government. The mayor, elected by the city’s residents, serves as the city’s chief executive officer, while the city council is made up of seven members representing different districts. Together, the mayor and council work to manage city policies, services, and growth.
City Hall – Mobile City Hall is located at 205 Government Street, Mobile, AL 36602. The building serves as the central hub for the city’s administrative functions, where residents can access services, attend council meetings, and engage with local government officials.
Emergency Services – Mobile’s emergency services are well-equipped to ensure the safety and well-being of its residents. Key contact information includes:
- Police Department (Non-Emergency): (251) 208-7211
- Fire and Rescue Services: (251) 208-7351
Utilities – Utilities in Mobile, such as water, gas, and electricity, are provided by various service providers. Important utility contact numbers include:
- Mobile Area Water and Sewer System (MAWSS): (251) 694-3100
- Alabama Power: (800) 245-2244
- Waste Management Services: (251) 208-4100
Public Transportation – Public transportation in Mobile is provided by The Wave Transit System, offering bus services throughout the city and surrounding areas. For more information, contact:
- Wave Transit Customer Service: (251) 344-6600
Kid’s Activities
Mobile offers a variety of fun and educational activities for children. Three popular destinations for children’s activities include:
- Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center: A hands-on science museum featuring interactive exhibits, an IMAX theater, and a wide range of educational programs for children. (251) 208-6893
- Mobile Museum of Art: The museum offers art programs for children and families, with exhibits that encourage creativity and exploration. (251) 208-5200
- Langan Park: A large public park that includes playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking trails, providing an ideal space for outdoor fun and activities for children. (251) 208-1650