In 1905, just four years after its founding, Foley became South Baldwin County’s rail center. From here, agricultural goods were shipped throughout the country, and passengers arrived and departed on a regular basis.

Now, a century later, residents and visitors pay homage to those early, formative years by shopping in the state’s only designated Commercial Historic District — 10 blocks of storefronts and office buildings that haven’t changed much since they were built — and by visiting the old L&N Railroad Depot Museum, adjacent to Heritage Park where folks gather to watch summertime movies, enjoy live music, and browse festival booths.

Although Foley maintains its glimpse into history, it enthusiastically embraces the rapid growth of the state’s coastal area. A modern, 112-bed medical facility offering numerous special services brings peace of mind to area residents. The Tanger Outlet Center features more than 120 brand-name shopping opportunities in addition to a strong number of antiques stores, boutiques and more. Restaurants and big-city services of all kinds are surprisingly easy to find in this small community. New neighborhoods of all price ranges are continually being created — a result of more people becoming aware of the wealth of opportunities in Foley. And with a mere 12-mile drive to the beautiful beaches of the Gulf of Mexico, it’s very easy to recharge over an evening or weekend.