Sports tourism has become one of the fastest-growing sectors of the travel industry, and few destinations embody its potential quite like the Foley Sports Tourism Complex in Foley, Alabama. Nestled just minutes from Alabama’s Gulf Coast, this state-of-the-art facility has quickly established itself as a premier venue for athletes, families, and event organizers from across the country.
Whether you’re a parent planning a youth tournament trip, a coach searching for the perfect venue, or a traveler curious about unique destinations in the South, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Foley’s sports hub—from its world-class amenities to the many attractions that make it more than just a place to play.
The Rise of Sports Tourism in Foley
For years, Foley was best known for its small-town charm and proximity to Gulf Shores’ white-sand beaches. But city leaders saw an opportunity to create something that would attract visitors year-round, not just during beach season. That vision became reality in 2016 when the Foley Sports Tourism Complex opened its doors.
Since then, it has hosted hundreds of regional and national events, welcoming athletes in soccer, lacrosse, baseball, softball, and more. By combining modern sports facilities with easy access to hotels, restaurants, and entertainment, Foley has positioned itself as a major player in the sports tourism industry.
Facilities at Foley Sports Tourism Complex
The centerpiece of the complex is its versatile design. It can host multiple events simultaneously while offering athletes and fans a comfortable, professional environment. Here’s what you’ll find:
Outdoor Fields
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15 full-size natural grass fields: Perfect for soccer, lacrosse, and football.
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Championship Stadium: A 1,000-seat stadium with press boxes, professional lighting, and video capabilities.
Indoor Event Center
Adjacent to the fields, the Foley Event Center provides:
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90,000 square feet of indoor space with adaptable courts for volleyball, basketball, gymnastics, and cheer competitions.
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Climate-controlled comfort for year-round play.
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Bleacher seating for spectators.
Amenities and Support
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On-site concessions and hospitality areas.
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Professional-grade turf and maintenance to keep playing surfaces consistent.
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Ample parking for teams, families, and large crowds.
The combination of indoor and outdoor spaces allows Foley to attract a wide range of events regardless of the season.
Events Hosted at the Complex
The Foley Sports Tourism Complex has become a magnet for national governing bodies and event organizers. Some highlights include:
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Youth Soccer Nationals: Drawing top teams from across the U.S.
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US Club Soccer Regionals and State Cups
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Lacrosse showcases featuring elite talent.
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Volleyball tournaments inside the Event Center, often featuring dozens of courts in play simultaneously.
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Cheer and dance competitions that transform the indoor space into a performance stage.
Beyond athletics, the Event Center also accommodates trade shows, expos, and concerts, proving that Foley’s investment extends beyond sports.
Why Families Love Foley
For many families, traveling for youth sports can be stressful—balancing games, meals, lodging, and entertainment. Foley makes it easy by offering everything in one accessible location.
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Walkable entertainment: OWA Parks & Resort, a major theme park and entertainment destination, is located right next to the complex. Between games, families can enjoy roller coasters, live performances, and dining options without ever needing to get in the car.
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Nearby lodging: From budget-friendly hotels to vacation rentals, there are accommodations to suit every team’s needs.
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Dining variety: Classic Southern barbecue, seafood, and family-friendly chains are all within minutes.
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Beach access: Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are less than 30 minutes away, perfect for a team outing or family day trip.
The combination of convenience and attractions has made Foley a favorite stop for traveling families.
Economic Impact on the Region
The Foley Sports Tourism Complex isn’t just a win for athletes—it’s a win for the local economy. Each event brings in hundreds, sometimes thousands, of visitors who spend money on hotels, restaurants, and shopping. According to local tourism officials, sports tourism contributes millions annually to Baldwin County’s economy.
This steady influx of visitors helps small businesses thrive and reduces the seasonal dependence on summer beach traffic. In short, the complex has transformed Foley into a year-round destination.
Tips for Visiting the Complex
If you’re planning your first trip to the Foley Sports Tourism Complex, here are a few insider tips to make the experience smoother:
Parking and Access
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Arrive early on tournament days—parking lots fill quickly.
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Most parking is free, but premium spots may be reserved for coaches and officials.
Weather Preparation
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Alabama summers can be hot and humid—pack water, sunscreen, and tents for shade.
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Indoor events provide a break from the heat, but dress in layers since air conditioning can be strong.
Lodging Recommendations
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Book early if your event coincides with peak beach season (May–August).
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Consider staying in Foley for convenience, or in nearby Gulf Shores if you want a beachfront experience.
Food and Dining
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Many teams pack coolers for quick lunches between games.
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Foley also has plenty of family-friendly restaurants near the complex.
Exploring Beyond the Fields
One of Foley’s biggest advantages is its location. When the games are over, there’s no shortage of activities for athletes and their families:
OWA Parks & Resort
Steps away from the complex, OWA features thrill rides, a waterpark, retail shops, restaurants, and seasonal events.
Gulf Shores and Orange Beach
Just a short drive south, these Gulf Coast gems offer sugar-white sand, dolphin cruises, fishing charters, and vibrant nightlife.
Tanger Outlets Foley
A favorite stop for parents, this outlet mall features more than 100 brand-name stores with discounts year-round.
Historic Downtown Foley
For a quieter experience, explore antique shops, local dining, and the Foley Railroad Museum.
The Future of Foley Sports Tourism
City planners aren’t stopping with what’s already been built. There are ongoing discussions about expanding both the facilities and the surrounding attractions. By continuing to invest in infrastructure and partnerships, Foley aims to remain at the forefront of sports tourism for decades to come.
This forward-looking vision ensures that the Foley Sports Tourism Complex will continue to host bigger events, attract more families, and drive economic growth for the region.
Final Thoughts
The Foley Sports Tourism Complex isn’t just a collection of fields and courts—it’s a full-scale sports and entertainment destination. With world-class facilities, family-friendly attractions, and proximity to Alabama’s stunning Gulf Coast, it offers something for everyone.
For athletes, it’s a place to compete on high-quality fields and courts. For families, it’s a stress-free travel experience with built-in entertainment and relaxation. And for Foley itself, it’s a symbol of how thoughtful investment in sports tourism can transform a community.
Whether you’re headed there for a weekend tournament, a major competition, or simply to see what the buzz is about, one thing is certain: Foley is proving that sports tourism is about more than just the game—it’s about the entire experience.
