Store Your Luggage Around Mobile With Bounce

During the 1700s, French colonists traveled to America with one goal in mind - to transform North America into New France. Several districts were established by the French: Quebec, Montreal, and Louisiana, to name a few. Each of these districts needed capital cities of their own. For Louisiana, Mobile was built to be that city. Founded in 1702, Mobile served as French Louisiana’s first capital until 1720. Many years later, in 1803, French Louisiana was transferred to the United States via the Louisiana Purchase. At this point, Mobile became a part of Alabama’s territory. In fact, it became the seat of Mobile County during the 1800s, and remains so to this day.

With such a rich and textured past, it’s no wonder why Mobile has become one of America’s major historic centers. The city is filled with all kinds of marvelous museums and significant historical sites. Between Mobile’s 45 public parks, botanical gardens, and mansions, guests will have plenty to see and do during their trips. In recent years, Mobile has also become popular with cruise enthusiasts. There are multiple deepwater terminals at the Port of Mobile that serve as launching points for ships like the Carnival Fantasy and the Carnival Fascination. 

As of 2018, Mobile’s population has surged to around 189,572 citizens. It should come as no surprise that such a large city would also receive many visitors each year. Records indicate that around 2 million tourists visit Mobile annually. Things really get busy in the Port City around Mardi Gras; Mobile’s streets are flooded with party-goers between January and February. Luggage storage options can fill up very quickly during this period. That’s why guests should use Bounce to store their things. 

Mobile has gained many nicknames over the years. People call Mobile the “Port City” because of the armada of cruise ships, cargo vessels, and commercial boats that enter and exit the Port of Mobile each day. People also call Mobile “the Home of Mardi Gras” because French settlers purportedly held the first Mardi Gras Parade here in 1702. Lastly, Mobile is also known as the “Azalea City” after its iconic Azalea Trees. Suffice it to say that visitors will find plenty of things to do in Mobile.

Exploring museums and historical sites will probably make up the majority of your trip to Mobile. There are just too many amazing venues to visit and pieces of history to admire. Mobile also has a selection of fantastic science centers and art galleries.

Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center: Nothing like a good science center to excite young and old minds alike. The Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center isn’t a good science center; it’s a great one. This venue features state of the art exhibits and encourages visitors to get really hands-on with their learning. Guests are asked to leave their luggage behind before visiting.

History Museum of Mobile: We gave a very brief history lesson about Mobile at the start of this guide. Despite our best efforts, we could only cover so much ground. We highly recommend that travelers visit the History Museum of Mobile to learn more about the “City of Six Flags.”

USS Alabama: The USS Alabama was once a formidable South Dakota class battleship. She was built in the early 1940s and aided the Allied forces during the Battle of Okinawa. Now, “the Mighty A” rests in Mobile Alabama. Guests are encouraged to come aboard and explore this amazing vessel while they’re visiting the Port City.

Everything from antique shops to boutique stores can be found in Mobile. Mardi Gras themed products help make the Port City’s shopping scene feel that much more special. Guests can also purchase tailor-made items from Mobile’s talented craftsmen.

Bienville Souvenir & Gifts: A trip to Mobile wouldn’t be complete with a visit to this souvenir shop. Bienville Souvenir & Gifts is the best place to buy gifts for loved ones and something special to remember your trip. 

Flea Market Mobile: Sometimes, you just need to grab your groceries and go. When that’s the case, you should stop by the Flea Market Mobile. Fresh produce is always on sale here. This market also prides itself on speedy service.

Mardi Gras -N- More: Mardi Gras only comes around once a year. If you want to celebrate Mobile’s biggest bash properly, you’ll want to visit Mardi Gras -N- More. This specialty shop has everything that party-goers need to get into the Mardi Gras spirit. Best of all, this store is open year-round!

Southern Food never goes out of style. A plate of pan-fried chicken, mashed potatoes, greens, and gravy is just as popular now as it was decades ago. Naturally, Mobile has a vast selection of restaurants. These establishments run the gamut from fine dining bistros to humble Mom and Pop restaurants - and everything in between.

Dauphin's: Dauphin's is a fine dining restaurant, unlike any other. This establishment has an amazing atmosphere, fantastic service, and dishes that are out of this world. Special mention goes to Dauphin's Crawfish Cakes, Spiny Lobster, and Flourless Chocolate Cake. 

The Noble South: If our little blurb about pan-fried chicken caused your mouth to water, then you’ll love The Noble South. This establishment is the place to go for traditional Southern food. If you’ve never had soul food before, The Noble South is a great place to try it out. 

Von's Bistro: Chef Von Larsen is the proprietor of Von’s Bistro - a fantastic restaurant that serves Asian cuisine, seafood dishes, and traditional Southern meals. Many patrons highly recommend the Drunken Noodles and the Red Curry.

Mobile

Party through the streets of Mobile at America's oldest Mardi Gras, shining in green, purple, and gold!

Mobile, Alabama, is recognized as the birthplace of Mardi Gras in the United States. French settlers initiated the tradition back in 1703, making it the country’s oldest Mardi Gras celebration. It even predates the famous festivities in New Orleans!

Mobile's first official Mardi Gras parade, held in 1830, was led by the Cowbellion de Rakin Society. This was the first mystic society, a secretive group that organized elaborate parades and balls—a tradition that continues today!

After the Civil War in 1867, Joseph Stillwell Cain revived and popularized Mobile’s Mardi Gras celebrations. He paraded through the streets dressed as "Chief Slacabamorinico," restoring the festive spirit. His actions inspired the creation of Joe Cain Day, an essential celebration in Mobile’s Mardi Gras tradition.

Interestingly, Mobile’s Mardi Gras parades are famous for throwing MoonPies, a tradition that began in the 1950s as a safer alternative to glass beads. Today, these treats are a beloved symbol of the celebration!

Come to Mobile! The Mardi Gras celebrations will last from February 14 to March 4. Don't miss these joyful festivities!

What to Expect When Attending Mobile Mardi Gras 2025

Expect plenty of excitement at Mobile Mardi Gras 2025, with parades both day and night in downtown Mobile. The festival begins with the Conde Cavaliers parade at 6:30 PM on Valentine's Day. It’ll offer a mix of tradition, entertainment, and family-friendly fun from the start! The night parades, starting with this one, feature bright, illuminated floats.

Each float is part of a "mystic society," Mobile’s equivalent of New Orleans’ krewes. The floats will be followed by marching bands and dance troupes.

Some of the parades you surely don't want to miss are by Mobile Mystics, Mobile Mystical Revelers, and Mobile Mystical Friends, held on February 22. These societies, with their rich histories, add unique traditions to the Carnival season. Watch for the variety of items they throw, including beads, Moon Pies, and other trinkets, enhancing the festive excitement.

The Sunday before Fat Tuesday, March 2, is Joe Cain Day. It features the Joe Cain Procession at 2 PM and Le Krewe de Bienville at 5 PM.

The MAMGA Mammoth Parade takes place on Fat Tuesday, also known as Mardi Gras Day. Later that evening, the Order of Myths Parade occurs, marking the finale of the Mardi Gras season. This final parade features traditional symbols, such as Folly chasing Death around a broken column, symbolizing the triumph of fun over adversity

The winter period in the Deep South will be warmer than usual, with temperatures in late February possibly dipping into the 40s°F (4-9°C) at night. Daytime highs could range from 60-70°F (15-21°C), though there may be periods of rain. Bring an umbrella and your best mood, and enjoy the festivities!

You can celebrate this colorful event for free! However, tickets are required for some balls and special events, which can be purchased at the Mobile Carnival Association office.

Security personnel and police officers guide the crowd and ensure everyone's safety.

Medical staff, including paramedics and first responders, are stationed at key points along parade routes.

Prohibited items include large bags or backpacks and dangerous objects.

Car: Mobile is accessible by highways like I-10 and I-65. Parking is available in downtown Mobile, though it can be limited during peak parade times. Arrive early to find a good spot!

Public transit: The city’s public bus system (Wave Transit) offers routes to downtown. Check the official website for the best route and schedules.

Shuttle services: Consider using Mardi Gras-specific shuttle services or ride-sharing apps for large crowds.

Remember, large bags and backpacks won’t be allowed. The event doesn't provide an area to store your luggage.

You don't have to worry about your bags since you have Bounce.

Bounce is a platform that provides secure places for storing bags. We help travelers enjoy the event without worrying about their belongings.

You can contact us on our website or our mobile app and book in just a few taps!

Store Your Bags With Bounce and Join the Oldest Mardi Gras in America

The process is easy with the help of our Bounce partner.

Bounce partners with local businesses, with {{NUM_LOCATIONS}} locations for storing your luggage in more than 2000 cities, including Mobile.

A Bounce partner will assist in finding a convenient luggage storage location.

Explore Mobile and pick out a convenient Bounce location. After contacting the Bounce partner online and paying, consider everything done! The price is just {{PRICE}} per day, and there is no cancellation fee if you can't make it! We also offer 24/7 support.

How to Stow Your Bag at Mobile Mardi Gras 2025 With Bounce

Book easily: Choose the location, contact the Bounce partner, and pay online.

Go to the location: Arrive at the location, show the confirmation, and store your belongings.

Have fun at the Mobile Mardi Gras: Go to the event and enjoy!

How to Make the Most Out of Mobile Mardi Gras 2025

Check the schedule: Look at the Mardi Gras Parade schedule and decide which parades you want to see! Each features different krewes with unique themes and floats. You have plenty of parades to pick from - from King Felix III and Floral Parade to the Knights of Revelry Parade!

Explore nearby attractions: Consider visiting the Mobile Carnival Museum, which has stunning displays of costumes, gowns, and robes worn by Mardi Gras royalty, such as kings and queens of the Krewes. At the museum, you can also view miniature replicas of the elaborate floats seen in Mardi Gras parades!

Embrace the spirit of the celebration: Dress in traditional colors—purple, green, and gold—and blend into the lively atmosphere!

Visit Mobile this winter and leave your luggage with Bounce! Get ready for a unique experience and create lasting memories!

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