Portside at the Wharf Celebrates Ribbon Cutting
Ken Cooper • July 17, 2025
New section of The Wharf has official ribbon cutting
Community leaders, business owners, and residents gathered under the summer sun to mark the official opening of Portside at The Wharf, a new retail and office development that's set to enhance the area's appeal for both tourists and locals. The ceremony highlighted the collaborative efforts behind the project, with speakers praising the vision and hard work that transformed an underutilized space into a vibrant addition to Orange Beach's entertainment district. Portside features a mix of shops, executive offices, and green spaces designed for family activities and events. City officials noted that the development aligns with ongoing growth in the region, including nearby attractions like the Margaritaville resort.
Sharon Wiese, representing the Coastal Alabama Business Chamber, kicked off the proceedings by welcoming attendees and acknowledging the challenging weather. She encouraged everyone to move into the shade before introducing the project as a team effort that benefits the entire community. Wiese then handed the microphone to Greg Alexander, the chamber's CEO and president, who expressed enthusiasm for Portside's contributions. "What a great day. This is such an exciting time," Alexander said, thanking the development team and recognizing elected officials in attendance. He highlighted how the new retail spaces and amenities would serve visitors and residents alike.
Orange Beach Mayor Tony Kennon followed with concise remarks, emphasizing the project's quality and its potential impact. "This is tremendous, and it speaks for itself," Kennon stated. "It's great for our local retailers in an upscale environment. It's great for our visitors. You combine Margaritaville with this, and it's going to be a world-class destination." He commended the team, including developer Art Favre and Jim Bibby, for their ongoing contributions to the city.
Jade Hubbard, General Manager of The Wharf, expressed gratitude for the turnout and credited key individuals like Favre for the project's vision. Hubbard noted the high occupancy of the retail spaces and invited Favre to speak.
Favre, the developer behind The Wharf and Portside, shared the backstory of the project, which has been in his plans since acquiring the property nearly two decades ago. "I've wanted to do this since we bought the property. We just had to wait for the right time and opportunity," he explained. Favre described how the new entrance improves accessibility and aesthetics, replacing a confusing parking lot with a welcoming "front door." He reported that the ground floor is fully leased and operational, with only one tenant still building out, while upstairs offices are 70% occupied. Favre also pointed to the added green space, complete with a stage for entertainment, as a family-friendly feature that could host everything from concerts to sports viewings. "Just imagine this fall during SEC football!" he added.
He spotlighted Tee Off at The Wharf, a Topgolf-sponsored anchor venue, as a weather-proof attraction for all ages. The Full Swing game library offers a diverse lineup catering to both sports enthusiasts and casual gamers alike. Golf fans have several options to test their swing, including the classic Full Swing Golf, Topgolf Swing Suite, and the precision-target challenge of Showdown Golf. Baseball lovers can enjoy immersive experiences with Visual Baseball, which can measure the speed of each pitch.
For those who prefer team sports, the system includes Full Swing Football, a helmet-to-cleats experience; Full Swing Soccer, which places players in goal-saving scenarios; and Visual Soccer, offering an additional soccer variation. There's also Visual Hockey for slapshot showdowns and Quarterback Challenge, where players aim to hit targets with football throws.
Looking ahead, Favre emphasized the role of Portside in sustaining The Wharf's growth. He thanked the staff for their dedication and hinted at future developments, referencing the "Coconut Telegraph" for upcoming surprises. "Life in Orange Beach keeps getting better," Favre said, reflecting on changes since his arrival in 1993.
Jim Bibby offered brief thanks, crediting Favre's vision and the team's efforts over the past 15 years. Another speaker praised the incremental improvements that elevate The Wharf, from walkways to streetscapes, and declared July 16, 2025, as Portside Day.
Wiese wrapped up by acknowledging ribbon-cutting sponsor Tater Harris of Gulf Coast Rental Company and reiterating appreciation for Favre's investments. "Mr. Art, thank you for investing in Orange Beach," Harris said. "You've helped make life here better—from the development of The Wharf over the past 14 years to the leadership of our city officials."
Just before the ribbon cutting, Mayor Kennon humorously noted that this marked Allen McElroy’s 10,000th chamber ribbon-cutting, playfully celebrating one of Orange Beach’s most cherished residents.
Portside on Main is home to a vibrant mix of tenants, including:
- Alabama Sweet Tea Company (Coming Soon)
- Brand Living + Giving
- Crave Cookies
- Gulf Babe Wine Boutique
- Kilwins
- LAVISH RETAIL + CO.
- Legacy Spirits
- Little Sunshine by the Sea
- LM Boutique
- Love, JUDE
- SALT
- Sôlt and Stōn
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