Alabama's port town, Mobile has open access to the Gulf of Mexico, and a sliver-like strand of Gulf Coast islands somewhat protects Mobile Bay from seasonal storms that kick up in the Gulf. Thus, it's easy to see why this consummate Southern town has become a center for manufacturing, shipping, and shipbuilding, given that everything from paper and petrol to textiles and timber passes through its busy docks. Located near the port area are Battleship Park and the dry-docked USS Alabama, which protected our country from World War II to Desert Storm. Mobile is not all wharves and cargo bins, though, and visitors to the downtown area find much of its historic Italianate, Greek Revival, and Creole architecture lovingly preserved. Stroll down any given street and find yourself shaded from the sun by 200-year-old oak trees and hauntingly beautiful Spanish moss. Come in April and enjoy the city's famous Azalea Trail Festival. Other must-see sights include Fort Condé; the Museum of Mobile; and the Richards-DAR House (circa 1826).