best cities to visit alabama

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10 Best Places to Visit in Alabama

Alabama is a state of many names: Yellowhammer State after the state bird, the Cotton State and the Heart of Dixie. Though Spanish explorers passed through the state in 1540, it was the French who settled the area, founding Mobile in 1702. Because it’s located on the Gulf of Mexico, Alabama is a good place to indulge in water activities.

The 22nd state also enjoys a vibrant arts, culture and entertainment scene. You may want to consult the weatherman before visiting, however, since the state is vulnerable to hurricanes.

Map of Places to Visit in Alabama

Hurricanes aside, Alabama is a wonderful place where you can kayak a wild river or learn more about our nation’s space program. It’s no wonder this southern state is a popular tourist destination. Here’s an overview of the best places to visit in Alabama:

10. Dauphin Island

Dauphin Island, off the coast of Mobile, is a rest stop on the way from South America if you’re a migratory bird. The island is often the first land birds see as they journey north. There are several bird sanctuaries on the island, but the main one is Audubon Bird Sanctuary.

Named for the Dauphin of France, great-grandson of Louis XIV, island beaches feature spectacular sunsets. If you’ve ever heard the phrase, “Damn the torpedoes! Full speed ahead!” it originated here with Admiral Farragut during the 1864 Battle of Mobile Bay. The historic walled Fort Gaines once stood guard per the bay’s entrance.

9. Noccalula Falls Park

Romantic tragedy lurks beneath the waters of Noccalula Falls Park. According to legend, rather than marry the rich chief her father wanted her, Noccalula chose to jump over the 90-foot falls on her wedding day. You’ll see a nine-foot tall statue of her at the falls that drop into the Black Creek ravine.

But where there is sadness, there is also beauty, the 25,000 azalea plants in this Gadsden park. While camping here, you can stroll the park’s paved hiking trail, let your kids play at the petting zoo and visit Pioneer Village to learn about the past.

8. Montgomery

Alabama’s capital, Montgomery, has a notable history, but it was Rosa Parks who really made it famous. The African-American woman name civil rights history in 1965 when she refused to give up her seat on a bus to a white man. In an ironic twist of history, Montgomery was where the Confederacy was formed in 1861.

Today, this city on the Alabama River is noted for its numerous arks, skyscrapers and one of the best art scenes for cities its size in the United States. Alabama Shakespeare Festival presents the Bard’s work throughout the year at its Blount Park theatre.

7. Cheaha State Park

Cheaha Mountain is the highest point in Alabama. The 2,413-foot (735-meter) high mountain can be found in the state park named for a Cree Indian word. Located inside Talladega National Forest, Cheaha State Park has good hiking with access to the Appalachian Trail as well as other trails.

There’s even a trail for ATV riders if you’d rather ride than hike through nature. Accommodations range from camping to a luxury lodge. If a pretty outdoor setting in your venue of choice, park staff can help you arrange your wedding. The park also is popular with day users.

Mobile, located at the head of Mobile Bay, is Alabama’s only saltwater port. Alabama’s third largest city is also the largest on the Gulf Coast between New Orleans and St. Petersburg in Florida . It is a cultural center on the sea, with museums, art galleries, and professional symphony, ballet and opera.

In early spring the city is ablaze with azaleas, while in February it hosts the oldest organized Carnival in the United States; their carnival dates back to the early 1700s when it was organized by French Catholic settlers. Mobile is famous for its antebellum architecture, a blend of several styles found throughout nine major historic districts.

5. Orange Beach

Orange Beach is a resort city of 5,500 residents on Alabama’s Gulf Coast border with Florida. It’s one of the best places to visit in Alabama if you want to chill out, perhaps staying in beachfront housing and playing a little basketball or tennis at a rec center if you get tired of water activities.

Orange Beach also is a good place to do dolphin spotting, or you can do what the locals do for entertainment: visit the Orange Beach Islands. The four islands are located in Perdido Pass and are accessible by watercraft. The islands are popular with water sports enthusiasts and also are a good place to see seabirds and marine mammals.

4. Little River Canyon National Preserve

The Little River Canyon is a special place, frequently described with superlatives, such as the deepest canyon east of the Mississippi River. The Little River, which starts in northwest Georgia, is believed to be the longest river in the United States that runs atop a mountain, in this case, Little Top Mountain.

Though it’s only about 600 feet at its deepest, it’s considered a spectacular landform in the southern Appalachian Mountains. The Little River is a Wild and Scenic River. The nature preserve that surrounds it is home to many protected species of plants and animals.

3. Huntsville

Huntsville is known as Rocket City because of its association with the U.S. space program. Chemical munitions facilities built during World War II were converted to space exploration use following the war; the United States launched its first satellite here in 1958. Today, NASA’s Manned Space Flight Center is located in Huntsville.

The city has a number of historic homes, some constructed in the early 1800s. Museums include Space Camp, Alabama Constitution Village with its reconstructed Federal style buildings, Clay House with its collection of Noritake porcelain and Veterans Memorial Museum with its collection of military vehicles.

2. Gulf Shores

Gulf Shores is a popular tourist destination on the Gulf of Mexico. Just 54 miles (87 km) from Mobile, it’s a good place to go ocean fishing, play golf at two top courses or go dolphin watching. Besides the usual beach activities, you can also take a sunset cruise on the Gulf or take the whole family to a water/amusement park.

If you’re a party animal, then late April is the time to visit. That’s when what’s billed as the world’s greatest beach party takes place. Join in the fun as you toss a dead mullet over the state line with Florida.

1. Birmingham

The city named after Birmingham, England, was founded during Civil War Reconstruction. Today, it is Alabama’s largest city. Because it was once the south’s main industrial area, it was given the nickname of “the Pittsburgh of the South.” Birmingham is the cultural capital of Alabama, with the largest art museum (Birmingham Museum of Art) in the southeastern United States.

You’ll also find ballet, symphony and opera companies here as well as several theaters for the performing arts. Birmingham is host to several music and film festivals, including the Sidewalk Moving Picture Festival that draws filmmakers from around the world.

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Reader interactions.

June 22, 2020 at 1:09 pm

Gotta love the Gulf Coast from Texas to Florida! Having been born in Mobile, Alabama makes me love the Coast. I love the smell of the ocean and when I get near its a real pleasure to smell the salty ocean on the breeze of the Gulf Coast! Such a welcome! I love watching the sea birds, dolphins, sailboats, shrimp boats and people enjoying the beaches! Gotta get some Gumbo!

January 11, 2019 at 10:00 am

The Southeastern United States has more to offer than any other part of the country.

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Discover the best that Southern USA has to offer! Hidden gems, vibrant cities and more!

17 Best Things To Do In Alabama: The Ultimate AL Bucket List

August 19, 2022 //  by  Southern Trippers

Are you on the search for fun things to do in Alabama? We’ve got you covered!

Alabama may be infamous for its dedicated college football fans (it’s the state’s most beloved spectator sport) and the delectable Southern comfort cooking (if it’s not fried, do you really want to eat it?), but don’t let their Southern hospitality keep you in a food coma for too long.

From spots where some of the most pivotal moments of Civil Rights history went down to stunning geological formations, this list includes plenty of cool places in Alabama just waiting for you to explore them.

As the 22nd state to join the union, this state has plenty of surprises as well as history, culture, and nature to explore. You won’t run out of fun things to do in Alabama.

If you think Alabama doesn’t have the type of adventure you’re looking for, let us prove you wrong.

Here are the best places to visit in Alabama!

17 Best Things To Do In Alabama: The Ultimate AL Bucket List

Honor civil rights history in birmingham.

One of the best things to do in Alabama is to take the time to step back in time and go where history actually happened.

In 2017, officials designated the Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument to honor the lives of Black women, men, and children who stood up for their Civil Rights in the 1960s.

There is too much history to cover here so we recommend taking the time to learn about it on a walk-through. Stroll through Kelly Ingram Park where history was made, stop by the A.G. Gaston Motel, and honor the lives lost at the 16th Street Baptiste Church (these sites are only a few steps away from each other).

You can also visit the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute. With so much to see, touring the Civil Rights history sites is one of the best things to do in Birmingham .

Visit the Little River Canyon National Preserve

If anywhere you go nature always seems to beckon, then adventuring through the Southern Appalachians is one of the most fun things to do in Alabama.

Established in 1922, Little River Canyon National Preserve offers explorers over 26 miles of hiking trails in Alabama! Enjoy a serene walk through the forest or by the river. For a little added fun download their bird sighting guide to see how many friends of a feather you can spot.

Take the time to visit the state’s deepest canyon, Little River Canyon, and if you’re there at the right time you can also admire Alabama’s highest seasonal waterfall, Graces’ High Falls, which drops 133ft directly into the canyon!

Wondering when you can visit? Great news, the park is open from sunrise to sunset and operational every day including holidays! This is one of the best national parks in Alabama !

Learn at the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park

Taking the day to explore a little-known slice of WWII history at the USS Alabama Battleship Park is one of the best things to do in Mobile .

Have you ever stepped foot on a decommissioned WWII battleship? Now’s your chance! Walk through a self-guided tour of the ship’s facilities and don’t forget to take a look through the USS Drum submarine too!

If you thought a submarine and a battleship were enough to entice a visit, you should also know the Memorial Park houses an aircraft collection, tanks and artillery, and a lovely picnic area. It might be hard not to spend the whole day there!

Explore Bankhead National Forest

There is plenty to do and lots to admire in the 181,230 acres of mixed woodland that make up this national forest known locally as “the Land of a Thousand Waterfalls.”

With hiking, horseback riding, hunting, swimming, canoeing, bird watching, waterfalls, the Sipsey Wilderness, petroglyphs, prehistoric drawings, and a Native American site thousands of years old, you might have to come back to try and explore as much as you can.

Even better stay the night at one of the campgrounds! Stargazing here is one of the best things to do in Alabama at night.

All but one of these Alabama waterfalls are active year-round and fairly easy to access. First-time visitors should try heading to Kinlock Falls, Caney Creek Falls, Turkey Foot, and Mize Mill Falls (these last two are very close to each other).

Bankhead National Forest is truly one of the most adventurous attractions in Alabama.

Take a Dolphin Cruise at Orange Beach

If you’re tired of going to Gulf Coast beaches to suntan, try taking a dolphin cruise instead! It’s one of the best things to do in Orange Beach .

Before heading to the Wharf to ride the vintage Ferris wheel or stopping at Adventure Island for some retro go-kart action, take the day to go enjoy the sun and all the beauty of the shining sea on a family-friendly dolphin cruise!

There are plenty of boat tours you can enjoy but if you’re looking for a special adventure we recommend trying a Glass Bottom Dolphin Tour! We’d never miss out on the chance to watch dolphins swim beneath the beautiful turquoise waters.

While you’re out trying to spot these friendly creatures why not multi-task and take a snorkeling adventure too? You never know what the sea has in store for you with these Alabama activities!

Enjoy Nature and a Fine Meal at Cheaha State Park

There are plenty of hiking trails to explore around the state, but you can’t miss out on the stunning view atop Cheaha Mountain, which is accessible all year long. Taking the time to reach the mountaintop and enjoy the surrounding Talladega National Forest is one of the best things to do in Alabama.

As the highest point in the state, the mountain’s peak is at an elevation of just a little over 2,400 feet so don’t forget to pack a snack and some water! It’s a long way up!

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, we recommend taking a detour to the nearby Vista Cliffside Bistro (open Thursdays through Mondays), which is actually within the park’s bounds so you can keep enjoying the mountain view but with a full stomach this time.

This state park has been open since 1933 and has been welcoming visitors ever since. Don’t miss out on one of the prettiest places to go in Alabama!

Celebrate a Legacy at the Rosa Parks Library and Museum

Step into the shoes of one of the heroes of the Civil Rights movement. Honoring Rosa Parks’ bravery is one of the best things to do in Montgomery .

As part of the United States Civil Rights Trail, the Rosa Parks Museum is a must-see for anyone stopping in the city. Visitors can see the very spot where she refused to give up her seat and instead got arrested for standing up for her rights.

Along with other artifacts, the museum offers patrons the chance to experience “The Cleveland Avenue Time Machine,” a permanent exhibit featuring a restored bus made to look like the ones in 1955 when the Montgomery Bus Boycott would have happened.

Stop by the museum, take a seat, and learn about one of the women who changed this country’s history forever.

Make sure to check out our list of the best cities and small towns in Alabama for inspiration on where to visit next!

Wonder at the McWane Science Center

Do you love dinosaurs? Who doesn’t?! If you do, then you definitely need to visit the McWane Science Center! It’s one of the best things to do in Birmingham!

If you thought dinosaurs didn’t make it all the way to Alabama, you were dead wrong (no extinction pun intended)! There’s a whole exhibit about these extinct creatures found all around the state.

The Center is open Wednesday through Sunday. With three different floors to explore you’re sure to spend a good afternoon full of learning! From their Weather Lab to their Shark and Ray Touch Tank, everyone is sure to have all their senses engaged.

And don’t worry– touching is encouraged! Let your kid’s (and your own) curiosity go wild. There is no need to worry about ruining the valuable art at this museum. This is one of the cool things to do in Alabama.

Take a Walk Around the University of Alabama

The University of Alabama campus ranks among one of the most beautiful in the country so why not stop by and check out one of the best things to do in Tuscaloosa ?

The charms of the south are undeniable at the University of Alabama’s campus. If you’re visiting in the spring you’ll be greeted by white tulips while the Alabama fall will paint the campus in deep oranges and yellows.

While you’re there why not stop at some of the museums on campus? At the Alabama Museum of Natural History, visitors can learn about the flora and fauna of the state.

The University offers visitors the chance to walk around campus and see what a student’s life looks like. You can find a campus map available on their website.

Marvel at the Weirdness of Bamahenge

If what you’re looking for is a weird roadside attraction, Alabama has that too. There really is no shortage of what to do in Alabama. The exhibit was built by Virginia artist, Mark Cline, at the request of Alabama billionaire, George Barber.

Although this version wasn’t built by Druids, and it’s made out of fiberglass instead of stone, the sight is no less impressive to behold. It is also a few thousand years younger than its inspiration.

He also commissioned the artist to build a brontosaurus, a T. rex, a stegosaurus, and a triceratops near Bamahenge so when you’re done admiring the work of non-druids you can go on a little car hunt to find the four giant fiberglass creatures!

Since there is no admission to see the dinos and wacky fiberglass recreation this is one of the best free things to do in Alabama! Just make sure to follow your GPS to Barber Marina and when you see the sign head in and stop when you see the giant stones!

Camp at Monte Sano State Park

You won’t run out of gorgeous scenery and sublime nature to enjoy while visiting Alabama. In addition to the other parks we’ve mentioned, we’d recommend staying the night at Monte Sano State Park! It’s one of the best things to do in Huntsville .

The park has 21 primitive camping (aka just a tent) campgrounds, 59 water and electric sites, and 15 full-hook-up sites so no matter what kind of camping you’re looking to do, you can do it here.

If you’re staying the night you won’t have to rush through exploring Monte Sano’s 340 acres, 14 rustic cottages, hiking areas, planetarium, and an outdoor amphitheater.

For an entrance fee, you can feel like you’ve visited Japan when you step into the park’s hidden Japanese Garden!

Tour the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church and Dexter Parsonage Museum

As another stop on the US Civil Rights Trail, you really shouldn’t miss out on taking on more chances to see some of this country’s past. Seeing the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church and the Dexter Parsonage Museum are some of the best things to do in Montgomery.

The church was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1974 because of its importance in the Civil Rights Movement. It was here that Martin Luther King Jr. has his pastorage during the Montgomery Bus Boycott.

The Dexter Parsonage Museum, now holding a permanent exhibit so visitors can see where Dr. King and his family lived between 1954-1960, is just a few blocks away.

The home has been renovated after it was bombed on January 30 in 1956 while his family was still inside. Luckily no one was harmed in the attack, and visitors can experience its original charm.

Check Out the Moundville Archaeological Park

People have lived in Alabama for much longer than you might think! Learning about the prehistoric Mississippian people who lived in the ancient site of the Moundville Archaeological Park is one of the best things to do in Alabama.

The site is a little bit of a mystery! Scholars don’t know how to explain the rise and fall of this small town or how the population interacted with Native American tribes.

The park is made up of 326 acres and 29 flat top mounds where the ancient Mississippian people would hold civic and ceremonial occasions.

Make sure to visit the museum after exploring the ancient monuments that have stood there for over 800 years. This is one of the best things to do in Alabama for adults interested in history.

Visit the Mobile Carnival Museum

For a quirky and unexpected experience, make sure to stop by the quaint Mobile Carnival Museum. It’s one of the best things to do in Mobile!

You may assume Mardi Gras is only celebrated in New Orleans, but Alabama also has a rich history of celebrating this ostentatious holiday, and they have the museum to prove it.

The beautiful southern mansion displays the opulent jewelry, costumes, and even parts of floats that have been part of the Mobile Mardi Gras celebrations of the past.

Don’t let them hear you say that New Orleans was the birthplace of Mardi Gras or you might get a history lecture you didn’t expect!

Enjoy a Beach Day at the Gulf Shores

Alabama does not have a long coastline, but there is still a great beach opportunity at Gulf Shores, Alabama. This is one of the best beach towns in the South and holds so much fun for the family!

One of the best things to do in Gulf Shores is a relaxing trip to the Gulf Shores Public Beach. You will be mesmerized by the white sand and pretty, blue water. This is a great place for swimming, sunbathing, and playing beach volleyball. You’ll find this is one of the best beaches in Alabama .

For more beach and nature fun, visit Gulf State Park. This is one of the best Alabama state parks for a family beach vacation. There are two miles of sandy beaches. Spend time swimming, parasailing, kayaking, and surfing. Hiking and camping are popular activities here too.

Learn at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center

The U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville is one of the best Alabama attractions for anyone interested in NASA and space exploration.

A visit to this amazing place will make you feel like an astronaut! Head into the sky with the Flight Simulator Experience, feel the power of gravity with the G-Force Accelerator, or walk in space with Apollo 11 Virtual Reality. This place is one of the fun things to do in Alabama with kids!

There is also a state-of-the-art Planetarium with shows that will leave you awed! A ride on the Moon Soot will lift you 140 feet up in the air in just 2.5 seconds!

Grab a bite to eat at the Mars Grill. The center also hosts launch parties and other cool events throughout the year. There is so much to see and do here, so make sure to add it to your Alabama bucket list!

Go Underground at Cathedral Caverns State Park

There are many cool caves in Alabama and one of the best is found at Cathedral Caverns State Park in Woodville. This cave system is 1.3 miles. The impressive entrance is 126 feet wide and 25 feet high, one of the largest in the world

Take a guided tour to experience the beauty of this cave. You will be able to see a 45-foot stalagmite known as Goliath. With a circumference of 243 feet, it is one of the largest rock formations of its kind in the world.

Gemstone mining and hiking can also be enjoyed at this state park. It is one of the most interesting places in Alabama.

Hopefully, you found some of the best activities in Alabama for your next trip! Alabama has so much to offer visitors from historic locations to beautiful nature. It is time to plan a fun weekend getaway in Alabama !

• Destinations

25 Best Places to Visit in Alabama

Last Updated By VI on March 18, 2024 in Things to Do in Alabama & Places to Visit

Dauphin Island

Birmingham, alabama, florence, alabama.

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One of the best ways to explore Dauphin Island is on two wheels – you can rent a bike from Dauphin Island Bike and Kayak Rentals – and set off to admire historic Fort Gaines, pristine beaches and panoramic island landscapes. There are plenty of accommodation options on the island and you will easily find the ideal base for your vacation.

However, Birmingham is by no means all about history – the city offers excellent shopping, dining, golf and nightlife as well as great activities for younger visitors including the Alabama Splash Adventure water park.

Nature lovers will enjoy visiting Weeks Bay Reserve while beer lovers should not miss a tasting at the Fairhope Brewing Company.

For family fun you can head to the Children’s Museum, the Sky Zone Trampoline Park and the Killen Time Mini Golf and Adventure Park.

Gadsden, Alabama

Art lovers will enjoy a visit to the Mary G. Hardin Center for Cultural Arts – the center is home to the Etowah Youth Orchestra, the Downtown Dance Conservatory and Imagination Place Children’s Museum. Things to Do in Gadsden

Gulf Shores

Back on land you can explore various hiking and biking trails, or re-live history by following the Mobile Bay Civil War Trail to see Fort Morgan, Fort Gaines and much more. Things to Do in Gulf Shores

In addition, there are no less than eight beautiful Historic Districts to explore. The city’s coastal location means that there is a plethora of maritime activities available as well as easy access to some of the best beaches on the Gulf .

There is also a treat in store for foodies who can visit several farmer’s markets, wineries, berry farms and tempting farm-to-fork restaurants. Things to Do in Auburn

Cheaha State Park, Alabama

Cheaha State Park, 19644 Hwy 281, Delta, AL 36258, Phone: 800-610-5801 , ( website link )

Take the family to Cook’s Natural Science Museum. Art lovers can feast their eyes at the Carnegie Visual Arts Center or catch a show at the Princess Theatre for the Performing Arts. Things to Do in Decatur

Families visiting Dothan will enjoy stepping back in time at Landmark Park (a “living” farming museum), having outdoor fun at Advertureland Theme Park or making a splash at Water World. Things to Do in Dothan

Shopaholics will enjoy exploring the Bargain Hunter’s Thrift Trail and Tanger Outlets while foodies head to the Coastal Alabama Farmer’s and Fishermen’s Market. Things to Do in Foley

Gulf State Park, Alabama

Gulf State Park, 20115 State Highway 135, Gulf Shores, AL 36542

Guntersville, Alabama

You can spend your time playing golf, hiking, biking, bird watching or fishing. For a change of pace you can visit the near-by Cathedral Caverns to see an astonishing frozen waterfall, a stalagmite forest and many other breathtaking cave formations. Things to Do in Guntersville

Some of the most popular near-by family attractions include the Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum and the Aldrich Coal Mine Museum. Things to Do in Hoover

For a complete change of pace you can visit the Huntsville Botanical Garden (young visitors love the night firefly hikes) or spend a few hours at the Lowe Mill ARTS and Entertainment center to see local artists in action. Things to Do in Huntsville

Lookout Mountain

Do not miss the chance to take a scenic drive through three states along the 93mile Lookout Mountain Parkway. Cultural activities include a variety of hands-on classes and workshops and visits to the many galleries and craft shops dotted around Lookout Mountain. Explore weekend getaways in Alabama for more travel ideas.

Monte Sano State Park

When you need a brief break from nature you can visit some of the interesting museums in Huntsville. Browse our things to do in Alabama guide for more ideas.

Montgomery, Alabama

Art enthusiasts can feast their eyes on the collections at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts before catching a show at the Montgomery Performing Arts Center. Children will love the Mann Wildlife Learning Museum and the Montgomery Zoo. Things to Do in Montgomery

Muscle Shoals, Alabama

More ideas: Day Trips in Alabama

Other city highlights include the Ancient Africa, Enslavement and Civil War Museum and the National Voting Rights Museum, Historic Water Avenue, the Jackson Home Historic Site and the Old Depot Museum. Things to Do in Selma

There are also many historic sites to admire including the Silk Stocking District where you will find 113 acres showcasing various historic architectural styles. Things to Do in Talladega

There are many historic sites to visit including several interesting museums, the Black Warrior Model Railroad, the Battle-Friedman historic house and the Tuscaloosa Veterans Memorial Park. In addition you can take a (free) tour of the Mercedes Benz Visitor’s Center, take the kids to the Children’s Hands-On Museum. Things to Do in Tuscaloosa

Orange Beach

Save some time for family fun at Adventure Island and shopping at The Wharf. Things to Do in Orange Beach

More ideas: Mobile beaches

• 1. Dauphin Island
• 2. Birmingham, Alabama
• 3. Fairhope
• 4. Florence, Alabama
• 5. Gadsden, Alabama
• 6. Gulf Shores
• 9. Cheaha State Park, Alabama
• 10. Decatur
• 13. Gulf State Park, Alabama
• 14. Guntersville, Alabama
• 16. Huntsville
• 17. Lookout Mountain
• 18. Monte Sano State Park
• 19. Montgomery, Alabama
• 20. Muscle Shoals, Alabama
• 22. Talladega
• 23. Tuscaloosa
• 24. Orange Beach
• 25. Scottsboro

Offering a warm Southern welcome, Alabama has more than its fair share of delightful places to visit. If you are looking for a beach holiday, you can head due south to Gulf Shores, Mobile and Orange Beach where 32 miles of soft white sand and warm azure waters await you. Outdoor enthusiasts can choose from over 20 state parks offering camping, fishing, RV parks, boating, caving, hiking and biking. Alabama is home to beautiful waterfalls, wineries, kid-friendly attractions and unique flea markets.

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Places to Go in Alabama

This might take more than one trip...

Beautiful beaches here. Lush, forest-covered mountains there. Every part of Alabama has something different to offer—and a lot more than just landscape. Cities like Gulf Shores are prime beach destinations in Alabama. If you want to visit a city with everything from a rich civil rights history to world-famous cuisine, put Birmingham on your list. No matter what you’re in the mood for or where your interests lie, heading to the best places to go in Alabama can fulfill your every passion. Mobile Bay offers an uplifting setting for your next Gulf Coast experience, and the Appalachian foothills in the lush Talladega National Forest will inspire you. If you’re looking to finally catch that record-breaking largemouth bass, head to Lake Guntersville, the largest lake in Alabama. Are you just searching for somewhere to enjoy a quiet picnic? Head to the Tuscaloosa Riverwalk trail in Tuscaloosa. It follows the Black Warrior River for 4.5 miles right through the city and is full of picture-perfect picnicking places! Explore the state by area below. You’ll find that no matter where you go, you’ll never run out of great things to do.

Attractions

Explore our cities.

Birmingham, a city of boundless delights, offers diverse experiences to captivate every visitor. Whether your passion lies in the wonders of science at the McWane Science Cente...

Explore Alabama's capital, Montgomery, a city steeped in Civil Rights Movement history. Discover historical sites that pay homage to this pivotal era, or nestle amidst top Montgomery hotels to indulge in the vibrant arts and e...

Discover Mobile, Alabama; a historic coastal gem where every visit brings new experiences. Immerse yourself in the original Mardi Gras spirit, catch a...

Huntsville, Alabama, boasts a storied history and a promising future. Home to the U.S. Space & Rocket Center , the

Explore our Beaches

Orange beach.

Orange Beach, Alabama, beckons with its soft, sugar-white sand beaches, making it a perfect destination for couples, families, or friends. Enjoy top-notch golf courses and relax in beautiful resort condominiums. Explore Waterfront Park nearby a...

Dauphin Island

Discover Dauphin Island, a charming bayfront town accessible via a scenic three-mile bridge. This idyllic, family-friendly island captivates visitors, beckoning them to stay for good. Don't miss the

Welcome to Fairhope, a dynamic coastal town celebrated for its captivating vistas of Mobile Bay. Experience the essence of home-away-from-home comfort at the inviting

Gulf Shores

Discover the charm of Gulf Shores, AL; a beach haven that caters to couples, families, and retirees alike with its pristine sugar-white beaches , crystal...

Hit the road, with an Alabama Road Trip

Huntsville: To the Moon and Back By Dinner

The U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville is the largest and most comprehensive space flight museum in the world.

Alabama’s Coastal Connection National Scenic Byway

Beautiful beaches, authentic downtowns, wildlife preserves, historic sites and the freshest of seafood are all yours to enjoy on Alabama’s Coastal Connection, a nationally designated scenic byway.

Guntersville: Where Eagles Fly

It's the name of a famous song, but Guntersville is truly a place "where eagles fly.

Alabama Road Trip App for iOS & Android

Find Your Alabama Sweet Spot

Find the sweetest Alabama vacation spot perfectly suited just for you. Customize your next Alabama vacation by the type of experience you are looking for, then filter by the region of Alabama you want to visit. Don't know what your Alabama destination should be? Let our interactive location map be your guide. Now, where is your next Alabama Sweet Spot?

Quality Inn University Area

Fish Lake Guntersville Guide Service

Heron Lakes Country Club

Jim 'N Nick's Bar-B-Q

The Stewart Lodges at Steelwood Golf Club

Spring Plant Sale at Longleaf Botanical Gardens

Interstate Mullet Toss & Gulf Coast's Greatest Beach Party

Children's of Alabama Indy Grand Prix of Alabama

2024 Panoply Arts Festival

41st Annual Magic City Art Connection

Friday Nights at the Cove

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Everything Alabama has to offer —in one easy place!

Looking for information on state parks, hot spots to have fun in the sun, or the best places for fishing or bird-watching? How about the world’s best museums or science centers? The Alabama Vacation guide will help you discover so many new and unique experiences. No matter where you’re headed or what you feel like doing, the Alabama vacation guide will get started on the right path.

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16 Best Places to Visit in Alabama: A Traveler’s Guide

Alabama, also known as the Heart of Dixie, is a state in the southeastern United States known for its rich history, diverse landscapes, and southern hospitality. From beautiful beaches along the Gulf of Mexico to stunning waterfalls and national parks, Alabama offers a wide range of attractions for travelers to explore.

In this guide, we will take a closer look at the 16 best places to visit in Alabama, showcasing the state’s natural beauty, historic landmarks, and unique experiences. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a relaxing beach getaway, Alabama has something for everyone.

Table of Contents

1. Noccalula Falls Park

Located in Gadsden, Alabama, Noccalula Falls Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Spanning over 250 acres, the park is home to a magnificent 90-foot waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery and scenic hiking trails.

Visitors can explore the park’s botanical garden, enjoy a picnic in the designated area, or take a leisurely ride on the miniature train.

Hosting various events throughout the year, including festivals and concerts, Noccalula Falls Park offers a serene and picturesque retreat for visitors of all ages. Plus, admission to the park is free, making it a budget-friendly choice for a day of outdoor fun.

2. Orange Beach

Situated on the Gulf Coast, Orange Beach is a paradise for beach lovers. With its pristine white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant coastal atmosphere, Orange Beach offers a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement.

Visitors can indulge in a variety of water activities, such as fishing, boating, and dolphin-watching tours, or simply bask in the sun and soak up the beach vibes.

The city also boasts world-class golf courses, ideal for avid golfers, and a bustling nightlife scene with numerous bars and restaurants. Don’t miss out on exploring the Gulf State Park, which offers hiking trails, bike rentals, and camping opportunities for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.

3. Little River Canyon National Preserve

For nature enthusiasts seeking adventure , Little River Canyon National Preserve is a hidden gem. Located in northeastern Alabama, this picturesque preserve boasts a 12-mile-long canyon with cliffs towering up to 600 feet high.

Visitors can explore the canyon’s breathtaking beauty through various activities, including hiking, kayaking, and scenic drives.

The preserve offers a range of trails suitable for all skill levels, allowing everyone to experience the magnificence of the area. While there, don’t forget to immerse yourself in the local history by exploring the nearby historic town of Fort Payne. Discover the area’s Native American heritage at the Cherokee County Historical Museum, and marvel at the wonders of nature in Little River Canyon National Preserve.

4. Huntsville

Known as the Rocket City, Huntsville is a must-visit destination for science and history enthusiasts. Home to the U.S. Space and Rocket Center, visitors can explore the history of space exploration through exhibits featuring rockets, satellites, and lunar landings. The center also offers interactive simulations and experiences, providing a unique perspective on space travel.

Huntsville is not just about space, though. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the nearby Monte Sano State Park or explore the Land Trust of North Alabama’s network of hiking trails. The city’s vibrant downtown area offers a plethora of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, making Huntsville a city that truly has it all.

5. Tuscaloosa

Tuscaloosa, home to the University of Alabama, is a city that seamlessly blends southern charm with modern amenities. If you find yourself in Tuscaloosa , be sure to explore historic sites such as the Battle-Friedman House and enjoy live music performances at the Tuscaloosa Amphitheater. For outdoor enthusiasts, a stroll or bike ride along the Tuscaloosa Riverwalk, which runs along the scenic Black Warrior River, is a must.

Sports fans can catch a game at the iconic Bryant-Denny Stadium or take a short drive to the Talladega Superspeedway for a thrilling race experience. Tuscaloosa offers a little something for everyone, making it a great place to visit.

6. Cathedral Caverns State Park

Cathedral Caverns State Park, located in Woodville, Alabama, is a treasure waiting to be discovered. This state park is home to one of the most beautiful and accessible caves in the state, featuring massive stalagmites, crystalline formations, and a large underground lake. Guided tours of the cave are available, allowing visitors to experience the wonders of the underground world.

In addition to exploring the cave, visitors can also enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and camping within the park. Educational programs and exhibits provide insights into the geological history of the cave and the surrounding area, making Cathedral Caverns State Park a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

7. Bankhead National Forest

Spanning approximately 181,000 acres, Bankhead National Forest is a true natural wonderland nestled in northwestern Alabama. The forest offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and hunting.

With several scenic waterfalls, such as Mize Mill Falls and Caney Creek Falls, visitors are in for a treat as they explore the forest’s breathtaking landscapes. Wildlife enthusiasts will love the chance to spot black bears, deer, and wild turkeys in their natural habitat.

The Sipsey Wilderness, located within Bankhead National Forest, is the largest wilderness area east of the Mississippi River, offering a sense of tranquility and serenity for those seeking a truly immersive nature experience.

8. Lake Martin

Lake Martin, located in central Alabama, is a picturesque destination known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning natural surroundings. Spanning over 44,000 acres, Lake Martin offers a myriad of recreational opportunities, including boating, fishing, and water sports. The lake is also home to a variety of wildlife, such as bald eagles, ospreys, and alligators, making it a haven for nature lovers .

Visitors can explore the lake’s numerous hiking trails, enjoy a picnic by the shore, or simply relax and take in the beauty of the surrounding nature. Surrounding the lake, charming resort cities like Dadeville and Alexander City provide accommodation options, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable stay for visitors.

9. Gulf Shores

Gulf Shores, located on the Gulf of Mexico , is a beach lover’s dream come true. With its pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a plethora of water activities, Gulf Shores is a must-visit destination for those seeking sun, sand, and relaxation.

Visitors can swim, sunbathe, or build sandcastles on the beach, or indulge in a variety of water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, or jet skiing.

Gulf Shores is also home to the Gulf State Park, offering miles of hiking and biking trails, nature tours, and various educational programs. With its stunning beachfront, vibrant atmosphere, and wide range of activities, Gulf Shores is a top vacation spot for beach enthusiasts of all ages.

10. Guntersville Lake

Guntersville Lake, located in northeastern Alabama, is a paradise for fishing and water sports enthusiasts. With its sprawling 69,000 acres of water and over 900 miles of shoreline, the lake offers endless opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Anglers can cast their lines in search of a variety of fish species, including bass, crappie, and catfish. Boaters can explore the lake’s scenic beauty, finding quiet coves or basking in the sun on a leisurely cruise.

Guntersville Lake is conveniently situated, making it an easy day trip from cities like Huntsville and Birmingham, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in nature and experience the serenity of Alabama’s waterways.

11. Florence and Muscle Shoals

Florence and Muscle Shoals, located along the Tennessee River, are a pair of cities that hold a special place in the world of music. Muscle Shoals, in particular, gained international fame for its recording studios, which welcomed legendary artists such as Aretha Franklin and Lynyrd Skynyrd. Visitors can explore the W.C.

Handy Birthplace, Museum, and Library, dedicated to the “Father of the Blues,” or immerse themselves in the state’s musical heritage at the Alabama Music Hall of Fame.

Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the opportunity to hike at the nearby Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge or birdwatch along the riverbanks. A visit to Florence and Muscle Shoals is sure to leave visitors captivated by the rich musical history and natural beauty of the area.

12. US Space Rocket Center

The U.S. Space Rocket Center, located in Huntsville, Alabama, is a must-visit destination for those intrigued by the wonders of space. The center provides a comprehensive look at the history of space exploration, featuring exhibits on rockets, satellites, and lunar landings. Visitors can even take part in interactive simulations and experiences, offering a glimpse into the life of an astronaut.

Additionally, the center is home to the world-famous Space Camp, where kids and adults alike can train like astronauts and participate in simulated space missions. In addition to the Space Rocket Center, Huntsville offers a variety of other attractions, including museums, parks, and historic sites, providing a unique and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

13. Huntsville Botanical Garden

Huntsville Botanical Garden is a true oasis for nature lovers, offering a tranquil escape from city life. With 112 acres of diverse botanical landscapes, the garden showcases a wide variety of plant species, including roses, herbs, and vegetables.

Visitors can explore a butterfly house, a nature center, and a children’s garden, or simply relax and take a peaceful stroll through the vibrant gardens and nature trails.

The garden also hosts seasonal events, including a mesmerizing holiday light show, and offers educational programs for children and adults alike. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a photography lover, or simply in need of a serene retreat, Huntsville Botanical Garden is a haven of natural beauty.

14. Fairhope

Located on the eastern shore of Mobile Bay, Fairhope is a charming small town filled with history, culture, and natural beauty. The town’s picturesque downtown area is known for its vibrant flower gardens and unique shops.

Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the pier, explore art galleries, or savor delicious meals at cozy waterfront restaurants.

Fairhope is also home to several annual events, including the Arts and Crafts Festival and the Outdoor Art Show, showcasing the talents of local artists. Surrounding areas such as Weeks Bay Reserve and Gulf Coast beaches offer opportunities to explore the natural wonders of the region, making Fairhope a delightful destination for a relaxing getaway.

15. Decatur

Situated on the banks of the Tennessee River, Decatur offers a variety of outdoor activities, history, and delicious cuisine.

Visitors to Decatur can explore Point Mallard Park, a sprawling park that offers a water park, golf courses, hiking trails, and camping facilities. Nature lovers will also enjoy visiting the nearby Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge, which spans over 35,000 acres and is a birdwatcher’s paradise.

History buffs can take a trip to the Carnegie Visual Arts Center or visit historic neighborhoods like De Tonti Square and Oakleigh Garden District. To top it all off, Decatur boasts a lively culinary scene, with a plethora of locally-owned restaurants offering Southern classics and international cuisine.

Located on the Gulf Coast, Mobile is a city steeped in history and offers a wide range of attractions for visitors. The USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park is a must-visit, giving visitors a chance to step aboard a battleship that served during World War II.

If you’re a nature lover, explore the Audubon Bird Sanctuary or take a stroll through historic neighborhoods such as De Tonti Square, which is filled with charming Victorian-era homes.

Mobile is also known for its vibrant food scene, with a variety of restaurants offering delicious seafood and Southern cuisine. Don’t forget to catch a Mardi Gras parade or attend the annual BayFest music festival, showcasing the city’s lively culture and vibrant spirit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some historic sites to visit in Alabama?

Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

Alabama State Capitol in Montgomery

Rosa Parks Museum in Montgomery

Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site in Tuskegee

Martin Luther King Jr. Birthplace in Montgomery

What outdoor activities can I enjoy in Alabama?

Kayaking or canoeing on the numerous lakes, rivers, and waterways throughout the state

Playing a round of golf at one of Alabama’s many championship golf courses

Hiking or biking on the state’s extensive network of trails, including the scenic trails in Bankhead National Forest and Cheaha State Park

Fishing or boating on one of Alabama’s many lakes, such as Guntersville Lake or Lake Martin

Exploring nature and wildlife at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge or other state parks

Are there any famous landmarks or attractions unique to Alabama?

Vulcan Park and Museum in Birmingham, featuring the world’s largest cast-iron statue

USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park in Mobile showcases a battleship from World War II, a submarine, and various aircraft

Cheaha State Park, home to the highest point in Alabama

The Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum in Birmingham houses the world’s best collection of vintage motorcycles

The unique experience of exploring the Unclaimed Baggage Center in Scottsboro, where lost luggage is sold

What are some popular local dishes to try while visiting Alabama?

In conclusion, the best places to visit in Alabama offer a diverse range of attractions and activities for travelers. From stunning natural wonders like Noccalula Falls Park and Little River Canyon National Preserve to beautiful coastal destinations like Orange Beach and Gulf Shores, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

History buffs can explore the US Space Rocket Center and various historic sites, while outdoor enthusiasts can indulge in activities like hiking and boating.

Don’t forget to try some of Alabama’s famous local dishes, such as fried green tomatoes and shrimp and grits. Plan your trip to this fascinating state and start exploring its hidden gems. Have you visited Alabama? Share your experiences and recommendations in the comments below!

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Ferona Jose is a passionate travel writer and blogger at Travelistia. She has traveled throughout Europe, Asia and the Americas. Her writing focuses on cheap travel destinations, travel experiences, cultural insights, and travel hacks.

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• Last Updated On
• June 22, 2023

16 Best Places to Visit in Alabama — Unique & Fun Places to Go!

Resting in the Southern area of the United States of America is the picturesque state of Alabama, a state that scores high for lovers of history, art, natural landscapes, and gorgeous beaches.

Rich in Southern charm that permeates through its historical streets and structures, Alabama also has educational wonders for tiny tots, such as zoos and science centers.

To help you get your itinerary started, here’s a list of some of the best places to visit in Alabama that we handpicked for you.

Unique Places to Visit in Alabama

1. birmingham civil rights institute — birmingham.

520 16th Street N Birmingham, AL 35203 (205) 328-9696

The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, founded in 1992, is a historical and interpretive museum.

Why You Should Visit This Place

The Civil Rights Institute is one of the first destinations for anyone wondering what to do in Alabama is the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, with Alabama being a state that played a crucial role in the civil rights movement.

Featuring four galleries about the movement of the 1950s and the 1960s and several exhibits, this museum is a must-visit for history buffs.

An Expert Tip Before You Go

Book a tour for a complete experience!

For extra fun, check out their official calendar to join festivals and witness events.

Related: Best Places to Eat in Birmingham

2. USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park — Mobile

2703 Battleship Parkway Mobile, AL 36602 (251) 433-2703

The Battleship Memorial Park, officially known as the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park, is a military history park and museum located on the western shore of Mobile Bay.

How does a trip to a historic submarine and battleship sound?

The Battleship Memorial Park features numerous other aircraft, battle tanks, war vehicles, memorabilia, picnic areas, an onsite eatery, rental facilities, interactive programs, and so much more too!

Every other month, World War II is reenacted by costumed actors aboard the ship, demonstrating drills and weapons briefings!

Related: Best Places to Eat in Mobile

Related: Best Things to Do in Alabama

3. Gulf State Park — Gulf Shores

20115 State Park Road Gulf Shores, AL 36542 (251) 948-7275

The Gulf State Park sits on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico and is roughly about 6,500 acres in size.

Beach bums who don’t know where to go in Alabama will find the best answers at the Gulf State Park.

Flaunting snow white sand beaches, campgrounds, and a nature center, this park is one of the top places to go in Alabama for an amazing vacation.

If swimming isn’t your thing, this park is also home to Lake Shelby, which offers calmer waters surrounded by lush verdant landscapes.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Lodge at Gulf State Park, A Hilton Hotel

Related: Places to Eat: Gulf Shores, AL

4. Frank Lloyd Wright Rosenbaum House Museum — Florence

601 Riverview Drive Florence, AL 35630 (256) 718-5050

Designed by world-renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright, the Rosenbaum House Museum was the former home of a former professor at Florence State Teachers’ College and his wife from 1940 to 1999.

The Rosenbaum House showcases Frank Lloyd Wright’s Usonian concept and currently houses original Wright designed furniture.

It is the only house in Alabama designed by Wright.

The Rosenbaum House tour takes you back to the ‘40s, Frank Lloyd Wright’s life, the Rosenbaums’ humble lives, and the house’s story that continues to unfold through the years.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Marriott Shoals Hotel & Spa

Related: Best Restaurants in Florence

5. Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum — Birmingham

6030 Barber Motorsports Birmingham, AL 35094 (205) 699-7275

The Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum is a spectacular museum featuring an impressive collection of 1,400 motorcycles.

One of the most popular sites in Alabama is the largest motorcycle collection in the world: the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum.

More than just motorcycles, the museum also displays other vintage vehicles and offers a 930-acre park with a 2.38-mile race track.

Being a vintage car and bike museum, expect motorcycle races, vintage showcases, and lively festivals.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn Birmingham/Leeds

Related: Weekend Getaways in Alabama

6. Rosa Parks Library and Museum — Montgomery

252 Montgomery Street Montgomery, AL 36104 (334) 241-8615

Established in 2000, this unique museum has the artifacts from the world-famous Montgomery bus boycott!

Among the most visited places of interest in Alabama is the Rosa Parks Library and Museum.

A 1955 Montgomery bus is on display, and reenactments about the infamous bus incident are routinely performed there.

If you were looking for cheap museum visits, this one lets you tour for free!

Donations, however, are encouraged.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: DoubleTree by Hilton Montgomery Downtown

Related: Best Places to Eat in Montgomery

Related: Best Beaches in Alabama

7. Birmingham Museum of Art — Birmingham

2000 Reverend Abraham Woods Jr Boulevard Birmingham, AL 35203 (205) 254-2565

The Birmingham Museum of Art, founded in 1951, features 24,000 artworks across cultures and eras.

The Birmingham Museum of Art is paradise for aesthete.

From sculptures and paintings to decorative artwork, textiles, ceramics, and ritual objects, this art museum will keep any art junkie well entertained for hours.

Brought the little ones along?

While you look through the galleries, the kids can have a great time participating in workshops like pottery making.

Or visit the gallery after 5:00 PM for unique activities!

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Westin Birmingham

8. US Space and Rocket Center — Huntsville

1 Tranquility Base Huntsville, AL 35805 (800) 637-7223

Located in Huntsville , the US Space & Rocket Center is the world’s largest space museum, showcasing the achievements, artifacts, and rockets of the US space program.

Has the fascination for the grandeur of our universe never left you?

If it didn’t, the US Space and Rocket Center should be one of the top places to visit in Alabama for you.

There are 27 rockets, missiles, and huge launch vehicles that propel the rockets on display.

Aside from exhibits, the museum also offers many fun hands-on exhibits like SCUBA, an underwater astronaut experience that involves diving 24-feet down, or the Flight Simulator, which lets you experience what it’s like to fly and navigate an F-18 Super Hornet!

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Westin Huntsville

Related: Best Places to Eat in Huntsville

9. Civil Rights Memorial — Montgomery

400 Washington Avenue Montgomery, AL 36104 (334) 956-8439

Created by Vietnam Veterans Memorial designer Maya Lin, the Civil Rights Memorial honors the martyrs who laid their lives on the line for the civil rights movement.

The memorial is a granite fountain inscribed with the names of those who lost their lives.

Maya Lin’s concept is based on the healing effect of water and was inspired by Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech.

This solemn spot in historic Montgomery is one of the top places to see in Alabama.

You can lay down some flowers on the fountain and offer a moment of silence to the 41 inscribed names.

Guided tours are also offered to include the other historic sites nearby.

10. McWane Science Center — Birmingham

200 19th Street N Birmingham, AL 35203 (205) 714-8300

The McWane Science Center, established in 1998, is a state-of-the-art research archive and science museum located in Downtown Birmingham .

The McWane Science Center, one of the cool and unique places to visit in Alabama, features four floors of interactive exhibits, a stunning aquarium, a 280-seat IMAX theater, and dinosaur fossils galore.

Because the McWane Science Center is located right at the heart of Birmingham, the museum is close to many eateries, in case you work up an appetite.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Birmingham at UAB

11. Montgomery

Montgomery, AL 36043-36142 (334) 262-0013

Famous for being a huge turning point in the civil rights movement, Montgomery is one of the best places to travel in Alabama for history enthusiasts.

The capital of Alabama is deeply steeped in conflicting historical twists.

It was the birthplace of the Confederacy in 1861 but also the city where African Americans nurtured the civil rights movement.

On top of that, tons of fun family-friendly attractions dot the city.

Being one of the best cities to visit in Alabama, Montgomery offers the top world-class accommodations in the state.

The Renaissance Montgomery Hotel and Spa has polished rooms, comfy beds, a free continental breakfast, and a rooftop pool.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa at the Convention Center

12. Dauphin Island

Dauphin Island, AL 36528 (251) 861-5525

Located right off the coast of Mobile, Dauphin Island is a haven for migratory birds from South America and one of the most underrated vacation spots in the state.

Nature-loving wanderers will find bliss at Dauphin Island.

Aside from its striking beaches, the island also has stunning sunsets, colorful butterflies, and a wealth of migratory birds.

More than that, it also gives you a chance to spot alligators among marshes and maritime forests.

The Audubon Bird Sanctuary is an island highlight with scenic woodlands and trails winding through swamps, live oaks, and magnolias.

Likewise, you may visit the Historic Fort Gaines, especially if you’re into history.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Isle

13. Cheaha State Park — Delta

19644 AL-281 Delta, AL 36258 (256) 488-5111

Cheaha State Park is home to the highest point in Alabama, Cheaha Mountain — a premier destination for hiking and camping.

The best of Alabama scenery is far away from the city and large crowds.

Cheaha State Park, Alabama’s oldest continuously operating state park, is every outdoorsy adventurer’s mecca.

The park offers a lake, stone bathhouse, stone cabins, stone pavilions, and nature trails.

The autumn season brings the best colors to Cheaha State Park.

Enjoy terrific colors as you go camping, hiking up Cheaha Mountain, picnicking, fishing, swimming, and paddle boating.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Home2 Suites by Hilton – Oxford

14. Huntsville Botanical Garden — Huntsville

4747 Bob Wallace Avenue SW Huntsville, AL 35805 (256) 830-4447

Encompassing 112 acres, the charming Huntsville Botanical Garden is one of the top paid Alabama tourist attractions, seeing over 300,000 visitors a year.

Staying in Birmingham?

This botanical garden is perhaps one of the most beautiful places to visit near you.

Home to grassy meadows to woodland paths, aquatic habitats, various themed gardens, and the country’s largest seasonal butterfly house, Huntsville Botanical Garden is a less wild option for nature lovers.

This magnificent tourist hot spot changes with the seasons and offers multiple themed sections to explore.

Think a space garden, dinosaur garden, storybook garden, and more.

For a more intimate experience, schedule your visit during the Galaxy of Lights, usually happening in November and December.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: AC by Marriott Hotel Huntsville Downtown

15. Alligator Alley — Summerdale

19950 Co Road 71 Summerdale, AL 36580 (251) 946-2483

Opened in 2004, Alligator Alley is a swamp sanctuary with more than 200 alligators.

Enjoy one of the most interesting spots in Alabama with the squad.

From a safe distance atop a wooden boardwalk, you can get the chance to observe hundreds of alligators and other roaming wildlife.

Did you know that aside from watching trainers feed the alligators, you can get up close and hold or feed them yourself?

Check out their feeding times to try out this once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Home2 Suites By Hilton Foley

16. Birmingham Zoo — Birmingham

2630 Cahaba Road Birmingham, AL 35223 (205) 879-0409

The Birmingham Zoo, established in 1955, is home to about 550 animals representing 195 different species.

No list of the best places to visit in Alabama is complete without Birmingham Zoo.

This vibrant zoo features more than just animals from around the world.

Experience fun events, animal encounters, scrumptious meals, and a gift shop.

Like Alligator Alley, Birmingham Zoo allows you to interact with some of the animals!

Also, don’t miss the live shows, animal feeding opportunities, and carousel rides for kids.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Elyton Hotel, Autograph Collection

16 Best Places to Visit in Alabama for 2024

• Birmingham Civil Rights Institute — Birmingham
• USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park — Mobile
• Gulf State Park — Gulf Shores
• Frank Lloyd Wright Rosenbaum House Museum — Florence
• Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum — Birmingham
• Rosa Parks Library and Museum — Montgomery
• Birmingham Museum of Art — Birmingham
• US Space and Rocket Center — Huntsville
• Civil Rights Memorial — Montgomery
• McWane Science Center — Birmingham
• Dauphin Island
• Cheaha State Park — Delta
• Huntsville Botanical Garden — Huntsville
• Alligator Alley — Summerdale
• Birmingham Zoo — Birmingham

17 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Alabama

Written by Lana Law and Lura Seavey Updated Sep 26, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Alabama is home to a range of tourist attractions and things to do for all ages and interests. Brush up on your history at several Alabama cities, where you'll find some of the most important Civil Rights monuments , museums, and historic sites. This includes the Civil Rights Institute and Sixteenth Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Montgomery's Civil Rights Monument and National Memorial for Peace and Justice, and Selma's Voting Rights Museum.

Alabama is also a culturally rich region. You can see the birthplace and former creative workspace of musician W.C. Handy, admire architecture and design at the Frank Lloyd Wright Rosenbaum House Museum, and view impressive collections at major art museums in both Montgomery and Birmingham .

Alabama is also full of beautiful natural attractions, especially along the shores of the Gulf of Mexico in Mobile Bay , where tourists will find state parks, nature reserves, and gorgeous sandy beaches . In addition to history and nature, the curious can explore science at the family-friendly McWane Science Center, or behold some of the world's most advanced technology at Huntsville's U.S. Space and Rocket Center.

Find the best places to visit in the state with our list of the top tourist attractions in Alabama.

1. Birmingham Civil Rights Institute and the Civil Rights Historic District

2. uss alabama battleship memorial park, 3. gulf state park, 4. civil rights memorials of montgomery, 5. u.s. space and rocket center, 6. montgomery civil rights landmarks, 7. mcwane science center, 8. mobile bay, 9. frank lloyd wright rosenbaum house museum, 10. w.c. handy home and museum, 11. national voting rights museum and institute, 12. barber vintage motorsports museum, 13. birmingham museum of art, 14. montgomery museum of fine art, 15. university of alabama, 16. cheaha state park, 17. alabama gulf coast zoo.

The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute provides an in-depth look at the events of the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s in both Birmingham and the United States, as well as continuing issues that African Americans have faced since. The galleries feature permanent and temporary exhibits on a variety of topics from violent conflict to segregation.

The struggle that began here in Birmingham was part of a larger social movement that eventually led to changes, and a defining moment was the bombing of the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church on September 15, 1963. This bombing, orchestrated by the Klu Klux Klan, killed four girls and was a tragic catalyst for change, adding urgency to pass the 1964 Civil Rights Act.

The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute sits at the corner of Sixteenth Street and Sixth Avenue North, forming the cornerstone of Birmingham's Civil Rights District , which covers a six-block area. Additional landmarks include Kelly Ingram Park , the Fourth Avenue Business District , and Carver Theater .

Address: 520 16th Street North, Birmingham, Alabama

Official site: www.bcri.org

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Birmingham

The star attraction of the Memorial Park in Mobile is the 1942 USS Alabama Battleship docked along the waterfront. This BB-60 battleship is nicknamed "the Mighty A," and was decommissioned after the end of WWII. You can tour many parts of the ship, including the captain's cabin, bridge, mess hall, and turrets.

The park is also home to the USS Drum , a submarine used during the second World War, which can be toured as well.

Also on-site are a variety of aircraft, including a B-52 bomber and an A-12 Black Bird spy plane, as well as military equipment from various conflicts, including tanks and weapons. The park is a memorial to all those who served in WWII, as well as more recent operations.

Address: 2703 Battleship Parkway, Mobile, Alabama

Official site: www.ussalabama.com

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Mobile

Gulf State Park in Gulf Shores is popular with both campers and day-trippers, offering a wide variety of facilities and more than two miles of white, sandy beaches.

The Nature Center provides free classes and activities, including guided nature walks, animal encounters, fishing lessons, and other fun and educational programs led by naturalists and rangers. Recreational facilities include volleyball, tennis courts, horseshoes, and a swimming pool with a splash pad, as well as bicycle, kayak, and paddle-board rentals and guided Segway tours.

The park also features 25 miles of paved walking trails, also open to bicyclists, and a championship golf course. Tourists making a day trip to Gulf State Park can enjoy all of these amenities for a very low vehicle entrance fee.

The campground, which has nearly 500 full-hookup sites for RVs, is a favorite family vacation spot thanks to its many amenities and things to do.

If you're not interested in camping, more luxurious options are available at The Lodge at Gulf State Park, a Hilton Hotel . The property has recently been completely reconstructed and occupies a premier beachfront location.

Address: 20115 Alabama 135, Gulf Shores, Alabama

Official site: www.alapark.com/gulf-state-park

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Gulf Shores

The Civil Rights Memorial in Montgomery features an exquisite black granite sculpture commemorating those killed during the struggles of the Civil Rights Movement. The memorial stands in a square next to the Civil Rights Memorial Center, where tourists will find educational displays and exhibits, including the Wall of Tolerance.

Another Montgomery landmark is the National Memorial for Peace and Justice , a six-acre space dedicated to African Americans who were victims of lynching and other forms of racial injustice. The memorial includes artwork, sculptures, and monuments, which honor various figures in the Civil Rights movement, as well as a field of 800 monuments each representing a county where lynchings took place.

Address: Civil Rights Memorial, 400 Washington Avenue, Montgomery, Alabama

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Montgomery

The U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville is an exciting attraction for all ages, providing exhibits, interactive experiences, presentations, and one of the world's largest collections of spacecraft on display. A Smithsonian affiliate, the center's exhibits provide visitors with information on everything from the history of the space race and NASA's growth since then to the International Space Station and beyond.

Tourists can experience multimedia presentations at the National Geographic Theater or the Spacedome IMAX, and explore a model of the International Space Station. Visitors also have the chance to see Rocket Park, where 27 rockets and missiles are on display, as well as the gigantic launch vehicles that propel the rockets into space.

Perhaps the most popular things to do at the Space Center, however, are taking turns in one of the museum's simulators. There are two launch simulators, one of which allows the astronaut-in-training to experience 4 Gs of force, a few seconds of weightlessness, and then a free-fall. The kids' version of this gives young astronauts a less intense version, then "lands" on the surface of the moon.

The Hyper Ship simulator uses motion and immersive media to provide a variety of rides, and visitors can also get active on the Mars Climbing Wall. There are also interactive areas for younger kids, where they can explore the surface of Mars and crawl through the space station. The center also offers week-long and single-day camps for kids.

Address: One Tranquility Base, Huntsville, Alabama

Official site: www.rocketcenter.com

Montgomery is home to several important Civil Rights landmarks, which commemorate places and events that were instrumental in the movement. The most famous of these is the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church , which was the meeting place of early Civil Rights activists and once the parish of a young Martin Luther King, Jr., who lived with his family in the parsonage from 1954-1960. Today, it has been restored to display a great deal of their original belongings, and is open to the public as the Dexter Parsonage Museum .

The Rosa Parks Library and Museum is located near the site of Parks' arrest in downtown Montgomery. It contains exhibits that tell her story and outline the public transportation boycott that resulted from her brave act of defiance. Artifacts on display include her original fingerprints from her arrest records, court documents, photographs, and a 1955 Montgomery City Bus, as well as one of the station wagons used during the boycott to transport protesters.

Another important historic site is the Freedom Rides Museum , located in the former Montgomery Greyhound station, which was the site of the 1961 attack on the Freedom Riders who were continuing the movement that Parks began.

Birmingham's McWane Science Center is home to a variety of exhibits and interactive experiences, which encourage both kids and adults to learn through hands-on activities. This popular family tourist attraction explores topics from the natural sciences to the latest technology and allows visitors to participate in their own experiments.

One of the most popular areas of the museum is its aquarium, which is home to many species of ocean and freshwater life, especially those native to the region. This section also looks at the importance of water and water-related science like erosion.

Other museum exhibits include an exploration of the ways that art and technology intersect, as well as a variety of rotating and traveling exhibits. The museum also has an IMAX theater, which offers screenings of various films each day.

Address: 200 19th Street North, Birmingham, Alabama

Official site: www.mcwane.org

Set along the Gulf of Mexico, Mobile Bay is a scenic area of Alabama's coastline. The area has beaches and historic areas, which attract both locals and tourists year-round.

Dauphin Island , located in the Bay, is a barrier island with a small town, which is also called Dauphin Island. This island has several things to see and do, including the historic Fort Gaines, which was established in the early 1800s and became an important outpost during the Battle of Mobile Bay. The island is also home to a freshwater lake, which is popular with swimmers, as well as an Audubon bird sanctuary .

The town of Fairhope is another tourist destination along Mobile Bay, located along its eastern shore. Fairhope Pier is popular for fishing, and the town has many outdoor recreational activities, including golf, tennis, and bicycling.

Nearby, the Weeks Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve provides amateur naturalists with the opportunity to explore diverse habitats. Elevated boardwalks and trails can be explored with a guide or independently.

Along the southeastern shores of Mobile Bay lie Orange Beach and Gulf Shores. Gulf Shores is a top Alabama resort destination, home to plentiful activities for couples, families, and independent travelers.

Rosenbaum House was built by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1939 for newlyweds Stanley and Mildred Rosenbaum. Located in Florence, the house is the only structure in Alabama designed by Wright. It is constructed of cypress, glass, and brick. The Usonian design features a flat, multi-level roof, and board and batten walls.

The house has its original Wright-designed furniture. The Rosenbaums were the only owners and occupants of Rosenbaum house until 1999, when it was purchased by the City of Florence and restored. It is the only house of Wright's in the southeast that is open to the public.

Address: 601 Riverview Drive, Florence, Alabama

Official site: http://wrightinalabama.com/

Located in Florence, the W.C. Handy Home and Museum is housed in the log cabin where this iconic musician was born and lived. Known as the " father of the blues ," Handy lived here when he wrote several of his most famous songs, including Beale Street Blues and Memphis Blues .

Visitors are able to see original sheet music hand-written by the artist, as well as other personal papers and artifacts. Collections on display also include several musical instruments, including his trumpet and piano, which he used while writing these songs.

Official site: https://www.wchandymuseum.org

Address: 620 West College Street, Florence, Alabama

National Voting Rights Museum and Institute, located in Selma, explores the struggle for voting rights for American citizens, namely women and African-Americans. The museum is located at the site of the tragic 1965 "Bloody Sunday" attack on protesters who were marching from Selma to Montgomery.

Exhibits highlighting the lives and accomplishments of important African-American political and social figures are featured throughout the museum, including Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr., Reverend Jesse Jackson, and President Barack Obama. Additional exhibits focus on specific locations where monumental vote-related Civil Rights events occurred, like Albany, GA; Greenwood, MS; and Selma.

There are also displays that take a closer look at more general issues and events, including women's suffrage, non-violent protest, and extremist organizations like the KKK.

Address: 6 US Highway 80 East, Selma, Alabama

Official site: http://nvrmi.com/

The Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum is home to a collection of more than 1,400 motorcycles, from some of the earliest and rarest models to modern machines. Around half of the collection is on display in the museum, and it is regularly rotated, so true aficionados will want to consider a repeat visit.

The collection, formed by former race car driver George Barber, gained notoriety shortly after the museum's opening in 1995, when several bikes were loaned to the Guggenheim Museum in New York for their exhibit, "Art of the Motorcycle."

A car lover as well, Barber's collection includes rare and coveted vehicles, including several models of Lotus. In addition to the museum itself, the grounds are home to a 930-acre park, which features a proving ground and 2.38-mile race track open to the public. Here, tourists can watch major auto manufacturers test new vehicles or even film a product reveal video.

Address: 6030 Barber Motorsports Parkway, Birmingham, Alabama

Official site: www.barbermuseum.org

Regarded as the finest art museum in Alabama, The Birmingham Museum of Art features an extensive permanent collection, as well as changing exhibits. Among the permanent collection are examples of ancient and international folk art and fine art, including decorative arts.

The African gallery contains a variety of historic and contemporary work, ranging from traditional figures and ritual headdresses to fine beadwork and batik. The Asian gallery includes some of the museum's oldest artifacts, including bronzes and ancient earthenware.

The largest part of the permanent collection is European art, including fine art by artists like Pissarro and van Rijn and a huge selection of decorative arts, including silverwork, furniture, and porcelain.

The museum also hosts multiple temporary exhibits, which feature various themes, media, or artists and change regularly. The tiered grounds feature the Charles W. Ireland Sculpture Garden and botanical displays.

Address: 2000 Rev Abraham Woods, Jr. Boulevard, Birmingham, Alabama

Official site: www.artsbma.org

The Montgomery Museum of Fine Art is home to a large permanent collection, which focuses on American art. Among its most prized works are examples of etchings, watercolors, drawings, engravings, and woodcuts, which are remarkable for their preservation, a difficult task for paper-based media.

Prominent American artists like John Marin and Winslow Homer are featured, and there is an extensive exhibit dedicated to regional art and folk artists, with examples ranging from crafts to paintings.

Other areas of note include the African art collection, examples of fine porcelain in the decorative arts gallery, and a display of glassworks by leaders in the craft. The museum also hosts educational programs for both adults and children, as well as traveling exhibits from other museums.

Address: One Museum Drive, Montgomery, Alabama

Official site: http://mmfa.org/

The University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa began in 1827 and by 1831 had seven buildings on campus. Today, the campus is home to an art gallery; 50-acre arboretum; pre-Civil War classroom; two museums; and the Gorgas House, which now serves as a museum.

The Gorgas House , named for a former university president, General Josiah Gorgas, was built in 1829 as the first structure completed on the campus by renowned architect William Nichols. It is also one of only four structures that survived the burning of the university during the Civil War. Today, the house serves as a museum with collections of antiques and Gorgas family memorabilia.

The Alabama Museum of Natural History is located on campus in Smith Hall. Exhibits include displays from the Age of Dinosaurs, the Coal Age, and Ice Age. Visitors can also view the Hodges meteorite, the only meteorite known to have struck a human.

The Paul W. Bryant Museum traces the history of the University of Alabama football tradition back to its beginning in 1892. The collections highlight other sports played by university athletes as well.

Official site: www.ua.edu

Most people think of the Gulf of Mexico and beaches when they think of recreational opportunities in Alabama, but the inland areas and their unique ecosystems are well worth a look. Cheaha State park, Alabama's oldest park, is a wonderful place to visit to experience the hill country of Alabama.

Home to the state's highest peak, Cheaha Mountain (2,407 feet), this nearly 2,800-acre area is full of recreational opportunities. Camping, RVing, hiking, biking, and ATVing all top the list of things to do in the park.

Cheaha State Park is also chock-full of waterfalls just waiting to be explored on a steamy summer afternoon. The park is adjacent to the 392,567-acre Talladega National Forest, and several major trails traverse both areas.

The park makes a great weekend getaway from Birmingham or Atlanta. Accommodation for those not interested in camping can be found in historic lodges, A-frame chalets, and cabins.

Official site: https://www.alapark.com/parks/cheaha-state-park

This small zoo is home to over a hundred species, and is emerging as a respected safe-haven for endangered and threatened species. The residents here represent a surprisingly diverse population of mammals, birds, and reptiles, many of which were once abandoned animals who needed a second chance.

The primate exhibit is a top attraction, featuring more than 50 animals including spider, squirrel, and Capuchin monkeys, as well as Hamadryas baboons and marmosets. There are also several big cats including two Bengal tigers, a black leopard, and an African lion among others. Other mammals include an American black bear, an American alligator, a Eurasian lynx, and camels.

The zoo is also home to a selection of birds, from species like the umbrella cockatoo and Australian kookaburra, to flamboyant peacocks. Reptiles include tortoises, snakes, lizards, and iguanas.

Among the zoo's most popular programs are its Animal Adventure experiences, which give visitors the opportunity to get up close to some of the zoo's most popular residents. Ages three and older are welcome to sign up to meet kangaroos, lemurs, and two-toed sloths. Guests opting for the lemur adventure can even cuddle with the friendly critters – that is, if they aren't using you as a jungle gym!

There is also a petting zoo, where even the youngest visitors can meet and feed the gentlest of the animals, including sheep, deer, and goats.

Official site: http://www.alabamagulfcoastzoo.com/

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Civil Rights in the South: Tourists can also find several historic sites in the neighboring states of Georgia and Mississippi , which each have many landmarks found on the Civil Rights Trail. Among the top tourist attractions in Atlanta, Georgia are the King Center, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Birth Home, and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights. Jackson, Mississippi is also home to several major attractions , like the Medgar Evers Home Museum, the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum, and important sites along the Mississippi Freedom Trail.

The Gulf Coast: You may not immediately think of white-sand beaches when you think of Alabama, but the southern coast is home to some of the best resorts in the state. Many of these can be found in the vacation paradise of the Gulf Shores, where families and couples alike can find a wide range of things to see and do, including boat tours in the Gulf of Mexico. Beach lovers can also explore the sandy shores and attractions in Pensacola, Florida, where tourists flock for both day trips and ocean-side vacations.

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The Most Charming Small Towns in Alabama

The South is known for its impressively long list of charming small towns, and Sweet Home Alabama claims a fair number of them. Tucked along winding back roads and scenic country drives, Alabama's tiny towns are a road tripper's dream. With historic bed and breakfasts, gorgeous natural features, and loads of quirky character, there's something undeniably lovable about Alabama's small towns. Here are 15 of our favorites.

Population: 30,589

Little sister to college town Auburn , Opelika is where locals and students go to reconnect with the area's small-town roots. Whether you hope to shop, sip, or find a bite to eat, Opelika's historic downtown has you covered. Stop into Studio 3:19 for women's clothing or 10,000 HZ for new and vintage records. For a pick-me-up, grab a cup of joe at Mama Mocha's Coffee or spot of tea at The Well teahouse. Restaurants abound, and if you're in search of a nightcap, try breweries Resting Pulse and Red Clay, or speakeasy bar Sneak & Dawdle. The friendly downtown is full of charm, from the railroad tracks that run through main street to the historic Lee County Courthouse which was built in 1896.

Bayou La Batre

Population: 2,332

This tiny fishing village in Mobile County is best known for being the home of fictional character "Bubba" Blue in Forest Gump. As the Seafood Capital of Alabama, the best thing to do when visiting Bayou La Batre is embrace the bounty of the sea. Whether you choose to do so by indulging in a seafood boil at Cudjo Seafood or by reeling in your own fresh catch, this charming town is the perfect backdrop.

Population: 16,072

There are some absolute gems hiding away in this North Alabama community. Highlights include a melt-in-your-mouth glazed donut from 1939 family-owned Duchess Bakery and a stroll through Ave Maria Grotto, a four-acre park and garden with 125 miniature reproductions of the world's most famous religious structures. Don't leave without getting sufficiently lost in the dizzying array of one-of-a-kind antiques and architectural salvage finds at Southern Accents.

Population: 22,035

Located on the eastern shoreline of Mobile Bay, Fairhope is as picturesque as they come. The Gulf Coast beauty is brimming with impressive flora, from live oaks draped in Spanish moss to bright, blooming bougainvillea bushes. Fairhope is also home to the legendary The Grand Hotel destination resort, featuring 550 acres of immaculately landscaped grounds, a world-class spa, giant pools, a private beach, and several top-notch dining options.

Population: 14,063

Formerly known as Alabama's Sock Capital, Fort Payne was once home to around 100 sock mills employing 7,000 workers (or half the city's current population). Though homegrown organic sock company zkano is still located in Fort Payne today, much has changed since its days as a bustling industry town. Today, Fort Payne is a bit quieter, but every bit as beautiful. Its location in the foothill of the Appalachian Mountains means it's ideal for hiking and waterfall chasing at places like Little River Canyon National Preserve and DeSoto State Park.

Population: 7,478

If you've ever wondered why Alabama's state flower is the camellia, you can thank Greenville for that. The town, located in Alabama's Black Belt region, is often a stop for travelers on their way down I-65 toward the Gulf Coast. But with historic districts full of grand Victoria-era homes, a Robert Trent Jones golf course, and delicious downhome eats, it's more than worth a weekend stay.

Guntersville

Population: 8,531

Voted one of our South's Best Lake Towns in 2022 , Guntersville is known for its signature brand of easy lake living and miles and miles of shoreline—almost 1,000 to be exact. At Lake Guntersville Bed & Breakfast, get your fill of Southern hospitality, plus a gourmet breakfast each morning, before heading out for a day on the water. Adventure enthusiasts should check out Lake Guntersville State Park, which offers 6,000 acres of natural woodlands, plus 36 miles of hiking and biking trails. Guntersville's walkable main street is ideal for antique lovers and boutique shoppers.

Magnolia Springs

Population: 1,129

Seasoned Alabama beachgoers have probably driven through the tiny town of Magnolia Springs dozens of times on their way to the coast. But we think it's high time for a dedicated overnight stay. Book one of five cozy rooms at the historic Magnolia Springs Bed & Breakfast, and be sure to reserve a table at Jesse's. The restaurant shines for its expertly cooked steaks and Southern classics like shrimp and grits and fried catfish.

Population: 327

If it's gorgeous views you seek, look no further than Mentone. Nestled in the woodlands of Lookout Mountain, you won't find a more elevated location anywhere in the state. Between Cloudmont Ski and Golf Resort, the state's only ski resort, and the adjoining Shady Grove Dude Ranch, the tiny town has a surprising amount of tourist appeal. Make a point to stop into the eclectic Wildflower Café for a slice of the restaurant's legendary tomato pie. You won't be sorry.

Monroeville

Population: 5,812

See the place that inspired some of our country's most celebrated literary works. In the 1930s, Truman Capote and Harper Lee were childhood friends in Monroeville. In the 1960s, Lee earned a Pulitzer Prize for To Kill a Mockingbird and Capote's In Cold Blood was nominated for the same award. In Monroeville, you can become fully immersed in Lee's world by visiting the Old Courthouse Museum, which inspired the courtroom in the novel; seeing the To Kill a Mockingbird play; and visiting the famed author's burial site.

Muscle Shoals

Population: 14,379

You may think a town of fewer than 15,000 would be quiet, but the music reverberating from Muscle Shoals has been heard all over the world. In the 1960s, music industry legend Rick Hall opened FAME studios, where Aretha Franklin, Otis Redding, Cher, and the Rolling Stones would go on to record albums. Today, you can learn more about the town's incredible music history by visiting FAME, as well as Muscle Shoals Sound Studio in nearby Sheffield. After a day of exploring, take a load off at Rattlesnake Saloon, a one-of-a-kind watering hole and music venue located under natural overhanging rock structures.

Orange Beach

Population: 6,130

Get a taste of the state's gorgeous white sand beaches and turquoise blue waters at this Alabama beach town. In 2020, more than 6 million people visited Alabama's Gulf Coast, which means Orange Beach can get a bit nutty during peak vacation months. But during magical offseason weekends, Orange Beach returns to its small-town sensibilities, and you can still enjoy a sandy strip of beach all to yourself.

Gulf Shores

Population: 12,550

Another of Alabama's beloved beach towns, Gulf Shores sparkles for its incredible biodiversity and the many ways it allows visitors to experience the glory of nature. At Gulf State Park, a 6,500-acre park with two miles of sandy beaches plus 28 miles of trails, you can traverse dunes, sand scrub habitats, fresh and salt marshes, maritime forests, coastal swales, and more. Options to camp, stay in a private cottage, or at the eco-friendly Lodge at Gulf State Park make it easy to plan a trip specficially suited to your preferences.

Dauphin Island

Population: 1,610

One of five Mississippi-Alabama barrier islands, Dauphin Island is just 15 miles long from east to west and is less than a quarter-mile wide for most of its length. The charming coastal town is ideal for a secluded getaway where you can charter a private fishing trip, explore the water via paddleboard, or see one of Alabama's 420 bird species at the 137-acre Audubon Bird Sanctuary.

Population: 11,878

This East Alabama town on the Alabama-Georgia border is home to the state's second largest historic district with more than 700 historic and architecturally significant structures. Visit in April to join the Annual Eufaula Pilgrimage, Alabama's oldest tour of historic homes that also includes tours of historic churches, outdoor art exhibits, tea gardens, and antique shows.

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42 Fun Things To Do & Places To Visit In Alabama

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: November 20, 2020  - Last updated: October 15, 2023

Alabama, known also as The Cotton State and the Heart of Dixie, is a beautiful place with delicious food, delightful natural landscapes, deep historic roots, and of course, football galore!

It’s packed with lots of options for what to see, no matter what you’re interested in, so there is a lot to add to your vacation ideas.

How can you decide what tourist hotspots you’ll want to check out when you arrive?

To help you out, here is our travel guide for 42 things to do and places to visit in Alabama that you should add to your bucket list.

Table of Contents

1. U.S. Space & Rocket Center

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The U.S. Space & Rocket Center is a unique museum that should be among any space-lovers’ list of where to visit in the state of Alabama.

Located in Huntsville , this museum showcases the history of the space program of the United States through information and artifacts.

The U.S. Space and Rocket Center is both a Marshall Space Flight Center for NASA and a Smithsonian Affiliate, and it’s also considered one of the largest space museums on the planet.

More than 1,500 different artifacts are on display and it boasts one of the biggest collections of its kind.

Among the most exhibits at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center are memorabilia and items from Army rocketry and aircraft, the Apollo program, the International Space Station, and the Space Shuttle program.

It can tell you all about the Space Race and the evolution of space exploration.

Some of the best things you need to check out are the genuine Apollo 16 capsule, a Skylab solar array, capsule trainers, and space travel simulators.

A number of traveling exhibits occasionally stop by here, and two camp programs are held at the museum.

There are also movies shown every day at the National Geographic Theater and the IMAX Theater, and you can tour the grounds with a bus tour.

All in all, this is one of the most fun things to do in Alabama.

Address: 1 Tranquility Base, Huntsville, AL 35805, United States

2. Frank Lloyd Wright Rosenbaum House Museum

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The Frank Lloyd Wright Rosenbaum House Museum is one of the key architectural points of interest in Alabama.

It’s one of the most beautiful buildings that the great Frank Llyod Wright created in America and the only one by him at all in the state.

In 1940, the Rosenbaum house was created for one family: Stanley and Mildred Rosenbaum.

Until 1999. Mildred would continue to live here, and then the house was entirely donated to the city of Florence.

It stands now as a prime example of the Usonian style of Wright, an aesthetic that only arose following the Great Depression.

“Usonian” is a bit of an acronym, basically meaning “United States of North American”, and the buildings in this style were designed to be affordable, functional, and well-blended with the world around them.

This meant natural materials with lots of horizontal lines, glass windows, and cantilevered roofs.

Wright had this down to a T, with a large open living space, cozy appearance, and even an added extension that fit perfectly when the Rosenbaum family grew to include four sons.

In 1948, more sleeping room was added as well as a Japanese garden, and Wright was extremely happy with this – it was a sign of practicality that the building could be so easily changed and extended.

While not the most fun design of Wright’s homes, a trip here will give you a new appreciation for the architect’s genius.

It definitely should be on your list of places to go!

Address: 601 Riverview Dr, Florence, AL 35630, United States

3. Gulf Shores

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Gulf Shores is a beautiful destination to head to this weekend as one of the best beach locations in Alabama.

It’s packed with different options for what to do, no matter what kind of trip you’re seeking.

32 miles of white-sand beaches cover the area.

Local attractions cover things like museums, shopping, art, and golf.

Naturally, there are also plenty of water activities to enjoy, like parasailing, boating, kayaking, jet-skiing, fishing, paddle boarding, surfing, scuba diving, and cruises.

You can also simply lounge on the beach and relax, or work on a tan!

4. Huntsville Botanical Garden

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Termed as one of the most popular vacation spots , the Huntsville Botanical Garden is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Alabama and also one of its top attractions, welcoming about 308,000 visitors on an annual basis.

It’s open all throughout the year, no matter the season, so it’s a great, reliable option.

One of the most loved spots within the Huntsville Botanical Garden is the Nature Center and Children’s Garden, which is the home of the biggest seasonal butterfly house in America.

It’s also specially designed just for kids, with themed spaces like a space garden, dinosaur garden, and storybook garden.

There are also many other gardens for people of all ages, such as the biblical garden, fern glade, daylily garden, and herb garden, and there’s also a cool nature trail to check out.

Seasonal events are often held during the year, such as the Scarecrow Trail, Huntsville Blooms, Galaxy of Lights, and Beaks and Barks.

Check the Huntsville Botanical Garden calendar to see if you’ll be in town at the right time to catch something exciting!

Address: 4747 Bob Wallace Ave SW, Huntsville, AL 35805, United States

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If you’re looking for places to vacation by the sea, or just want a place with a lot of historical activities, you’ll do well with Mobile , a port city with a rich past.

It sits on Alabama Gulf Coast, providing visitors with southern hospitality, fun attractions, and lots of historic districts to take a look at.

In Mobile, you’ll have your fill of art museums, performance art, and coastal wonder.

Check out the 1850 Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, wander the beaches for some relaxation, or check out the carnival.

There’s enough to do to keep you busy this weekend!

6. USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park

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The USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park is where you’ll find the USS Alabama, a ship that began construction on the 1st of February in 1940.

It was completed two years later and showed off in an elaborate ceremony.

Captain George B. Wilson became its commander that year on the 16th of August, and about a year later, it would have its first military engagement.

In 1962, the ship was ordered to be scrapped, and it remained unused for the most part until the Battleship Memorial Park was set up in 1977.

Today, the battleship holds status as a national historic landmark and stands alongside many other historic vessels, including fellow national historic landmark USS Drum, which is a submarine.

Both of the aforementioned ships are vessels from World War II.

The Battleship Memorial Park also has some other interesting features, like a patrol boat used during the Vietnam War, military equipment, fighter and bomber planes, and Vietnam War and Korean War Memorials.

It’s no surprise that this location is one of the most rewarding spots for history buffs, and it’s certainly among the state’s top 10 attractions!

Address: 2703 Battleship Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36603, United States

7. McWane Science Center

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The McWane Science Center is a fun and exciting spot that is one of the main places to see in the state for families with children.

It opened its doors in 1998 and has been thrilling children with informational but entertaining science ever since.

Measuring over 9,000 square feet in total, it is packed with interactive exhibits, a Challenger Learning Center, and an IMAX Dome theater.

Over 500,000 different artifacts are on display here, covering a wide range of different scientific topics.

This includes precious minerals, Native American artifacts, and fossils, like an 80-foot whale fossil that is the official state fossil.

Permanent exhibits are diverse, with favorites like the World of Water Aquarium, Explore! Collections Center, the Shark and Ray Touch Tank, Alabama Dinosaurs, Itty Bitty Magic City, Sea Monsters, the Fox 6 Weather Lab, Science on a Sphere, NatureScope, and High Cycle.

Each one is full of interactive activities that make for a fantastic learning experience.

Address: 200 19th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203, United States

8. Cheaha State Park

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The Cheaha State Park is the oldest state park in Alabama, opened in 1933 and boasting about 2,800 acres of land in Northern Clay and Cleburne.

It’s one of the best places to spend time in for all the park activities you can think of: sightseeing, hiking, camping, water sports – you name it!

At the Cheaha State Park, you can head to the camp sites, outfitted with modern amenities, or go to the Cheaha Lodge that boasts a swimming pool and 30 hotel rooms.

If you’re not looking to stay long, head to bodies of water for fishing, swimming, or boat launches.

You can also just go hiking to all the different scenic spots with gorgeous views, following loved paths like the Chinnabee Silent Trail, the Pinhoti Trail, and the Odum Scout Trail.

Aside from the usual park amenities, the Cheaha State Park also has a restaurant and general store.

In other words, this is one of the most well-outfitted Alabama attractions for visitors who want a lot of options!

Address: 19644 AL-281, Delta, AL 36258, United States

9. Bellingrath Gardens and Home

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The Bellingrath Gardens and Home are truly historic and worth the trip for sightseeing purposes alone.

The grounds cover 900 beautiful acres with the Gardens being the main attraction in this large space in Theodore.

With numerous fun features that make this one of the state’s most delightful tourist attractions, the Bellingrath Gardens and Home provides plenty to do and enjoy.

The great lawn, bridal garden, and conservatory are among top picks on this garden property.

You can also enter the home, which measures 10,500 square feet and dates back to 1935.

It was built by Mobile native and architect George B. Rogers with handmade brick.

Ironwork comes from the Southern Hotel and the entire building gives off a vibe that can only be likened to the Gulf Coast.

It’s also an interesting way of looking at the architectural history of the general area.

The Bellingrath Gardens and Home have 65 acres dedicated to non-stop color through flowers, no matter what time of year it is.

Azaleas brighten the spring.

Tropical plants, roses, and hydrangeas bloom in the summer.

Chrysanthemums take over in the fall.

And, finally, camellias – 400 kinds of them! – cover the grounds in winter.

Take a self-guided tour through the stunning land and feast your eyes on the flora!

Address: 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Rd, Theodore, AL 36582, United States

10. Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

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The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute should be on the bucket list of any American history buff.

Civil rights activists were highly active in Alabama in the 1950s and 1960s, and as such, it makes sense that Birmingham in the state is the site of one of the best places to learn about this powerful movement.

In 1992, the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute opened its doors for the first time, welcoming 25,000 guests in its first week alone.

It tells the story of the development of civil rights, the actions of those who fought for it, and the struggle that still continues to this day for equal treatment.

The things to see within the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute are explorable independently through self-guided walks.

As you pass through the exhibits, you’ll follow the journey of the movement and end on a positive note, as the institute hopes to light a spark of hope for the future through its message.

Address: 520 16th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203, United States

11. Florence

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Florence is one of the most famous Alabama vacation spots, home to a wide range of scenic, educational, and fun attractions.

Located in Alabama’s northwestern side, it is full of outdoor activities, historical locations, and kid-friendly spots for the whole family.

Only 40,000 people live in Florence, and as a small town, it’s a pretty famous tourist location.

It hosts quaint and delightful events, like the W C Handy Music Festival, and provides vibrancy and life to an already bright state.

12. Dauphin Island

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Dauphin Island is set within the Gulf of Mexico’s lush waters.

It is a barrier island, across Alabama Port, and accessible through a bridge spanning three miles from the mainland.

As a getaway, it is nothing short of serene – trails for walking are teeming with greenery, beaches glisten with white sand and blue surf, and rare birds fly about, waiting for bird-watchers to spot them.

If you’re keen to explore Dauphin Island, then renting a bike is a must do.

With a bike, you’ll be able to more easily visit the many unique spots on the island, including historic parks, lovely parks, and tropical delights.

It’s known as the Sunset Capital of Alabama for its gorgeous vistas of the horizon, too.

No wonder it’s one of the best things to do in Alabama and one of the most beautiful places to go in the US !

13. Rosa Parks Library and Museum

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You’re likely familiar with the inspiring but harrowing story of Rosa Parks, an African-American woman who, in 1955, refused to give her seat to a white man on the bus.

Her brave action sparked the beginning of an uptick in civil rights activism and led to the Montgomery Bus Boycott.

In the Rosa Parks Library and Museum , her legacy is honored today.

You’ll find the Rosa Parks Library and Museum in Montgomery , where its doors are open five days a week.

The museum has an online virtual tour but is certainly worth an in-person trip.

Housed in the former Empire Theatre building, it is split into six different areas that each tell a unique part of Rosa Parks’ story.

Popular exhibits here include a replica of the bus where the inciting incident occurred, a station wagon restored from 1955, and some original documents relating to this historic event.

Other features include an auditorium, “time machine”, conference room, classrooms, and archives.

A children’s wing is available onsite to allow children to learn about Rosa Parks in age-friendly and educational ways.

History buffs should definitely have this museum on their list of what to do in Alabama.

Address: 251 Montgomery Street, Montgomery, AL 36104, United States

14. Alligator Alley

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No trip to Alabama is complete without a stop at Alligator Alley .

Located in Summerdale, this alligator farm is a haven for lovers of the reptile and for anyone who is interested in learning more about them.

It’s one of the state’s cool things to do, packed with fun, excitement, and plenty of activities.

Alligator Alley was set up in 2004 in Alabama as a farm with a natural environment for these many-toothed reptiles.

The alligators here have come from all sorts of bad situations, rescued from dangerous environments, and brought here to live a healthier life in a better home.

There are also some other animals that have been taken in, either – you can find bullfrogs, owls, ospreys, and turkeys in different areas of the grounds.

A guided adventure takes you through Alligator Alley, beginning at the impressive viewing platform elevated above the ground.

Through it, you can see more than a whopping 450 alligators of all different ages engaging in their daily lives: sunbathing, nesting, courting, and relaxing!

Once the tour is done, you’ll get to head to the gator station, where you’ll be able to hold an adorable baby alligator.

Don’t forget to stick around for the feedings, which happen three times daily; you might even get to participate!

Address: 19950 Co Rd 71, Summerdale, AL 36580, United States

15. Fort Gaines

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Fort Gaines is an excellent option among Alabama destinations for a sightseeing stop.

Located on Dauphin Island, it provides all-around views of the beautiful sand and surf, and its wealth of history makes it one of the best places to stop by when you’re on the Gulf Coast this weekend.

The Fort has been around for over 150 years and has been kept surprisingly well-preserved, remaining on the “entrance” to the stunning Mobile Bay.

It boasts its original canons and kitchen to this very day, as well as a blacksmith’s shop.

There is also a museum and gift shop on the premises, and guided tours are conducted by staff in period costumes who take you through the many interesting tunnels.

You’ll get to watch the art of smithing and even see a cannon fire!

Fort Gaines is considered one of America’s most endangered historic locations, which makes it a rare find in Alabama but also one of the most melancholy.

It was once a key factor in the Battle of Mobile Bay and is the site of the famous “Damn the torpedoes! Full speed ahead!” order from Admiral Farragut.

If you do plan to go to this location, be aware of the erosion on the shoreline.

Address: 51 Bienville Blvd, Dauphin Island, AL 36528, United States

16. Birmingham Zoo

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The Birmingham Zoo is a zoological part that covers 122 acres of its titular town.

More than 470,000 visitors head here on a yearly basis, and there are lots of activities held throughout the year that make it worth a trip while you’re in Alabama.

It opened in 1955 with only a handful of animals in a firehouse and has since grown to accommodate over 800 individual animals from 200 different species.

Some of the most fun attractions around the Birmingham Zoo are the Kangaroo Kountry, Predator Building, Flamingo Lagoon, Primate Building, and Alligator Swamp.

If you’re looking for more stuff to do, keep an eye out for camel rides, available seasonally, and the Sea Lions Splash Show.

There is also the delightful Schaeffer Eye Center Lorikeet Aviary, which charges a small fee to let you interact with and feed birds!

Address: 2630 Cahaba Rd, Birmingham, AL 35223, United States

17. Ave Maria Grotto

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The Ave Maria Grotto in Benedictine Abbey is an impressive work of art that makes it one of the best places to visit of religious and general artistic significance.

It comprises more than 125 different little miniature reproductions of buildings, shrines, and churches across the planet.

The Ave Maria Grotto was built by Brother Joseph Zoettl, a Brother of the Order who resided in St. Bernard Abbey.

He was born in Bavaria but arrived here in 1892.

In his time here, he began work on the Grotto, which was actually just a project he did as a hobby.

He used recycled materials and the Grotto soon grew into a famous feature of the Abbey.

For three acres, the grotto will transport you away from Alabama and onto the streets of many beautiful locations in different parts of the world.

It is even commonly called “Jerusalem in Miniature”, and it’s an apt name for such a masterpiece.

Address: 1600 St Bernard Dr, Cullman, AL 35055, United States

18. Birmingham Museum of Art

The Birmingham Museum of Art is one of the must do Alabama attractions for art aficionados.

It is considered among the finest art collections in Alabama, and perhaps even in the Southeast of the country.

It opened its doors in 1951, has the support of an education program, and is home to more than 25,000 exhibits.

Multiple cultures are well-represented at the Birmingham Museum of Art through decorative works, paintings, and sculptures.

You’ll find work from Africa, Asia, America, and Europe, and from Native American and Pre-Columbian cultures.

The museum also has amazing Renaissance, Wedgwood, and Baroque art collections, and the Vietnamese ceramics collection is to die for!

Noted artists with works here are Carrie Hill, a landscape artist, and Hannah Elliot, a miniaturist.

Address: 2000 Reverend Abraham Woods Jr Boulevard, Birmingham, AL 35203, United States

19. Cathedral Caverns State Park

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Cathedral Caverns State Park can be found in Marshall County, just southeast of Alabama’s Woodville.

The state park is named after a stunning cavern within it that is known as one of the best tourist attractions in the area.

The magnificent Cathedral Caverns were once simply known as the Bat Cave, but it completely naturally looks like a cathedral, earning in its current title.

The Cathedral Caverns are always 60 degrees in temperature, and they greet you with a giant entrance measuring 25 feet in height and 126 feet in width.

11,000 feet have been traversed, but 2,700 feet more of the Caverns are still closed as they have not yet been surveyed.

Gem mining, cave tours, camping, and picnics can all be done here.

The most stunning of the Cathedral Caverns’ sights is Goliath, which might be the largest natural column in the world.

The stalagmite has a 3-inch diameter, a 243-foot circumference, and a height of 45 feet.

It reaches the ceiling, 25 feet above, at an angle that makes room for it.

It’s the centerpiece of the state park and a masterwork of nature!

Address: 637 Cave Rd, Woodville, AL 35776, United States

20. Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum

The Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum is situated on 740 acres of ground in Birmingham.

It is the home of the world’s most comprehensive and fine collections of vintage automobiles and motorcycles.

It was created by George Barber, who has a private collection of vintage motorcycles thanks to his interest in them.

He used his collection to open the museum in 1988.

Barber was more than just a collector, though.

He had 63 first-place wins from racing Porches and was advised by his friend, Dave Hooper, to focus on motorcycles due to the common collections of cars already existing.

Barber listened and began gathering what is now the biggest collection of motorcycles in the world.

The Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum now has more than 1,450 motorcycles that span over a century of production from 20 different countries.

Famous bikes onsite include everything from common brands like Honda and Harley-Davidson to rarer ones like Cagiva and DSK.

Aside from motorcycles, the museum is also home to a fun collection of Lotus racecars – the biggest of its kind worldwide!

There’s no denying that the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum is one of the state’s things to see that shouldn’t be missed for motorcycle enthusiasts!

Address: 6030 Barber Motorsports Pkwy, Leeds, AL 35094, United States

21. F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum

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The F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum is situated in Montgomery, and as the sole museum exclusive to its subject, is one of the top points of interest for renowned author F. Scott Fitzgerald in the world.

The Fitzgeralds came to live in the house in 1931, at the same time that the writer was working on screenwriting Red-Headed Woman and authoring the novel Tender Is The Night.

Only a year later, a mental breakdown would see his wife, Zelda, admitted to a clinic in Baltimore.

That April, Fitzgerald would vacate the home with his child.

The house was set up to be knocked down in 1986, but two people rallied to save it: Julian and Leslie McPhillips.

They also set up the Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum Association and the house was officially opened as a museum the following year.

It is now the last house ever lived in by either Fitzgerald or his wife that remains standing now in Montgomery.

The house itself is interesting to explore.

Its foyer leads to a number of different directions, with the museum being situated on the first floor and apartments located above.

The apartments are now actually used as the Zelda and Scott Suites, which are an AirBnB location.

If you book a room for the night, museum entry is complimentary, so it could be among the free things to do if you decide to stay here!

A tour of the museum starts with a video that dates back to the 1980s.

It is 30 minutes long and tells the tale of the Fitzgeralds and their home.

The rest of the museum is backed with personal items, photos, letters, and books relating to the author and his family.

Address: 919 Felder Ave # 919, Montgomery, AL 36106, United States

22. Unclaimed Baggage Center

Unclaimed Baggage Center

The Unclaimed Baggage Center is one of the best cool places that you can check out in Alabama.

It is in Scottsboro and is one of the many places that unclaimed baggage may end up in order to find new homes somewhere.

Many airlines provide reimbursements to customers whose luggage or cargo is lost, and then the eventually located luggage may then be sold.

The Unclaimed Baggage Center, which opened in 1970, is one of the businesses that purchase such lost items.

They first opened as a part-time business in 1970 before a full expansion in 1995 that led to it reaching the size of a city block!

Over 7,000 new items are brought in daily, so the selection is wide-ranging and interesting.

At the Unclaimed Baggage Center, you’ll find a large amount of clothing predominantly, but there are many other items as well.

Electronics, books, jewelry, sporting goods, cameras, and actual luggage are also common finds.

There are also rarer and more unique items occasionally; some that have been reported over the years are a parachute, a suit of armor, a fighter jet system, gemstones, and a whole live rattlesnake!

The rarest items can be viewed in the museum on site.

This includes artifacts from Egypt, Hoggle from Labyrinth by Jim Hensen, and even a 1700s violin.

There’s a reason over a million people come to check this place out annually – it’s just cool!

Address: 509 W Willow St, Scottsboro, AL 35768, United States

23. Little River Canyon

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The Little River Canyon is a national reserve that can be found close to Fort Payne, on Alabama’s Lookout Mountain.

It is the site of America’s longest mountaintop river, and it’s truly one of the most beautiful places to go in the state.

The canyon is often considered the deepest of its kind east of the Mississippi River and was originally called May’s Gulf.

There are a number of fun ways to keep yourself occupied if you visit Little River Canyon.

Backcountry camping is possible in Hartline’s Ford, Billy’s Ford, and Slant Rock.

Fishing and hunting can be performed with a license, too.

If you prefer, you can also just drive along the edge of the Little River Canyon Rim Parkway to get a 23-mile gorgeous view around the rim of the canyon.

Address: 4322 Little River Trail #100, Fort Payne, AL 35967, United States

24. Fairhope

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Fairhope is a lovely, picturesque location that has a small-town vibe, which makes it one of many more laid-back vacation ideas in Alabama.

Perfect for exploring the shores and cliffs of Mobile Bay this weekend through the delightful, whimsical locations it has to offer.

Among Fairhope’s most famed places to visit is Fairhope Avenue, which has plenty of unique and interesting shops, eateries, and galleries, as well as storybook-like lights at night.

There is also the Fairhope Pier, the rose garden, tours through horseback and boat, and more.

25. Mobile Carnival Museum

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The Mobile Carnival Museum is the best way to get a glimpse into Mardi Gras history in Alabama.

This is because Mobile was the location of the very first Mardi Gras (or Carnival) in the New World of French Louisiana in 1703.

The Mobile Carnival Museum tells its tales through photographs, costumes, floats, gowns, jewels, and posters, all dating as far back as 1886 and as current as the modern day.

As one of the most fun things to do in Alabama, it showcases all the unique and fascinating parts of Mardi Gras and Carnival evolution over the decades.

Address: 355 Government St, Mobile, AL 36602, United States

26. Bryant Denny Stadium

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The Bryant Denny Stadium rests on the campus of the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa.

It’s one of the key places of interest for sports fans and was set up in 1929.

At first, it only has 18,000 or so seats, but it has since grown to be capable of accommodating more than 100,000 people!

Over the years, the Bryant Denny Stadium has become one of the country’s main venues for college football.

If you love sports as entertainment, you’ll likely be able to watch a game if you catch tickets on time.

If not, book a tour of the stadium in advance in order to go on one of the daily tours, which caps at 25 people.

If you’re a die-hard sports fan, you’ll also probably want to catch the Iron Bowl, which takes place here in even-numbered years!

It’s a fun mashup between the Auburn Tigers and Alabama Crimson Tide, which are the state’s two biggest rivals in the sport of college football.

Address: 920 Paul W Bryant Dr, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401, United States

27. Dismals Canyon

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The Dismals Canyon comes alive when night falls.

Dismalites!

Dismalites are a kind of gnat larvae, commonly called “glowworms”, which doesn’t sound very appealing, but they’re a must see if you’re in Alabama thanks to their rarity alone.

Dismalites, officially called the North American Orfelia fultoni, can only survive in specific habitats when they are still larvae, so they can only be found in very few locations.

They need hanging surfaces to build webs on, humidity to keep them moist, darkness so its lights can show, and still air in order to keep web lines steady.

Alongside Cumberland Plateau and the Appalachian Mountains, Dismals Canyon is one of the places to see that has this habitat!

The canyons, covered in moss, are often so full of them that it’s tough to differentiate between them and the sky above!

The Dismals Canyon is also home to one of the world’s biggest Canadian Hemlock trees, known also as Tsuga canadensis.

It towers at 138 feet in height and nearly 9 inches around.

Its crown spreads across 50 feet and it has an impressive age of 360 years.

Address: 901 County Rd 8, Phil Campbell, AL 35581, United States

28. Moundville Archaeological Park

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Travel back in time to a pre-Columbian world at the Moundville Archaeological Park near Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

For more than a millennium, these earthworks have gazed over the Black Warrior River on a bluff, boasting 29 mounts built by the Mississippians, a Native American society.

The civilization of Mississippians was made up of chiefdoms that lived in a long rush of land from the coast of the Atlantic to the western Plains.

Chiefdoms were autonomous but connected by conflicts, trades, or other arrangements.

The culture also discovered techniques for sustainable agriculture, unlike many hunter-gatherer societies, which is why permanent settlements were possible for them.

Ruling religious and political figures were the head of their complex civilizations, and these elites were responsible for the supervision of the construction of the mounds you see now.

These mounds were the basis for houses, temples, and buildings of council and required heavy labor.

The ones at the Moundville Archaeological Park were built between 1000 and 1450 CE and had more than one thousand residents.

The larger the mound, the more elite the individual residing within it.

The largest one at the Moundville Archaeological Park measures 60 feet in height.

This place was abandoned around 1500 CE and it wasn’t excavated properly until the 20th century as part of New Deal job creation.

It spans 185 acres and is one of the best Alabama attractions you can find, as well as one of the most unique.

Address: 634 Mound State Parkway, Moundville, AL 35474, United States

29. Talladega Superspeedway

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If you’re looking for fun tourist attractions, the Talladega Superspeedway is an amazing way to get your taste of races and entertainment in Alabama.

Measuring 2.66 miles, it is the fastest and longest of NASCAR’s tracks.

It originally opened as the Alabama International Motor Speedway in 1969 and it earned a reputation for being cursed due to its location atop burial grounds of ancient communities.

The Talladega Superspeedway is unique because it offers a fascinating way to spend weekends when races are scheduled: with the option for free camping on the grounds.

You can avail of infield RV tent camping, RV camping, and outdoor camping as well.

There is also the new addition of the Party Patio, which lets you take a look at the whole track as you rest and await races.

Address: 3366 Speedway Blvd, Lincoln, AL 35096, United States

30. Tinglewood Carvings

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The Tinglewood Carvings can be found in Orr Park of Montevallo, Alabama.

The park itself is lovely, with eight sports fields, two playgrounds, a walking trail, a creek, and several picnic shelters.

But the best things to see at Orr Park aren’t these facilities, but the carvings made in many of its trees.

When a storm swept the area in 1993, many of the older trees wound up being destroyed.

They were originally meant to be simply chopped down, but one Mr. Tingle decided not to allow that!

He arrived and began carving into them, a mix of whimsical and comedic that add to Orr Park’s beauty.

Living trees are left untouched, but dead ones are game for whatever carvings he wants to add!

Alligators, squirrels, men, silly faces, and a dragon are among the different designs of the Tinglewood Carvings.

They’ve become so famous that the Montevallo City Hall has a book that details all of them!

Address: Park Dr, Montevallo, AL 35115, United States

31. Alabama Wildlife Center

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The Alabama Wildlife Center is the biggest facility for wildlife rehabilitation.

Created in 1977, it’s also the oldest, beginning as a small volunteer organization.

For the most part, the wildlife center focuses on being a rehabilitation clinic for native wild birds, providing a wildlife helpline, and offering fun educational programs.

More than 50,000 wild animals have been helped by the wildlife center, the facility continues to provide medical and rehabilitative aid to the animals that they can help.

More than 100 species of wild birds are cared for here annually – over 2,000 individual animals!

Address: 100 Terrace Dr, Pelham, AL 35124, United States

32. Alabama Theater

In 1927, the Alabama Theater was opened in Birmingham to be a premier movie theater for America’s southeast.

It was among the very first buildings to boast air-conditioning and, in the 1930s, was home to the activities of the Mickey Mouse Club.

In the beginning, the theater could only play silent films with the aid of a Mighty Wurlitzer organ.

It is this organ that eventually saved the theater from its eventual slating for demolition.

Now, the Alabama Theater is a nonprofit that still offers frequent entertainment.

Seating 2,500 people, it has come a long way since it was a mere vessel for vaudeville and performance arts.

As the only district theater in the state still operating, it’s certainly one of the best things to do in Alabama.

Address: 1817 3rd Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203, United States

33. Town of Spectre

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The Town of Spectre is a fictional town that you may recognize from Big Fish, a film from 2003.

In the movie, the main character visits Spectre multiple times, going as a child to find it beautiful and bright, and arriving later to find it dilapidated.

The lead then works to fix it and, the final time he visits it, it’s all fixed up and good as new.

It’s whimsical and melancholy – even more so when you consider the current state of the set of Spectre.

Spectre was built along the Alabama River, on a private island.

Its facades were left to stand there when filming was over, along with all the other dressings of the set.

The reason it looks so run-down is because that version of Spectre was the last to be filmed, so it already looked intentionally bad when filming wrapped.

Some of the buildings have begun to collapse over time, and one of them led to a fire when debris collapsed and the owners attempted to save it.

Sparks burned and most of the commercial part of Spectre was destroyed.

A river house was also demolished due to flooding that damaged it.

Spectre is still a fun option for what to do, but much smaller now.

Only six homes, two trees, a church, and columns from an important building remain.

If you loved the film, you can leave your shoes at the long line already existing here, left behind by visitors.

Address: Dirt road near, Cypress Ln, Millbrook, AL 36054, United States

34. Civil Rights Memorial

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The Civil Rights Memorial of Alabama is located across the Southern Poverty Law Center.

Despite being harrowing in nature, it is one of the best places to visit to feel the symbolic gravity of the movement for civil rights.

It bears the names of 40 individuals who died between the years 1954 and 1968 in their fight for equality.

The years were chosen because the former is when the Supreme Court of the United States ruled against racial segregation in schools and the latter is when Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated.

The memorial is always watched by a guard in order to prevent vandalism.

It was designed by Vietnam Veterans Memorial designer Maya Lin and was dedicated in the year 1989.

The design of the memorial is water-themed and is meant to appear healing and relaxing.

It is a nod to King’s own words from his famous speech: “…we will not be satisfied until justice rolls down like waters and righteousness like a mighty stream”.

Address: 400 Washington Ave, Montgomery, AL 36104, United States

35. Orange Beach

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Orange Beach is one of the famous places in Alabama because it’s one of the few beach getaways that offers sand and surf fun.

It rests along the Gulf of Mexico’s coastline and spans 32 miles.

Orange Beach has golf courses, fishing events, nature preserves, and plenty of white sand to enjoy.

You can rent a boat, bask in the sun, go for a cruise, partake in fishing, or even look for dolphins!

36. GulfQuest National Maritime Museum of the Gulf of Mexico

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The GulfQuest National Maritime Museum of the Gulf of Mexico is one of the best ways to get a true look into the Gulf of Mexico.

As the only maritime museum dedicated to its subject on the planet, it’s paramount of the list of where to go for education about this gulf at the end of Alabama.

Situated on the Mobile River, the GulfQuest National Maritime Museum of the Gulf of Mexico is an interactive location, making it one of the only interactive museums of this theme in the United States.

It is built inside the container ship of the SS McLean as a symbol of the 1950s concept of containerization.

Address: 155 S Water St, Mobile, AL 36602, United States

Auburn is a college town, through and through.

You won’t find another place that is more quintessential to the concept of Alabama colleges.

It’s home to the famous football team, the Auburn Tigers, and the school pride is evident virtually in all the places to visit you’ll encounter.

There are plenty of fun spots throughout Auburn worth visiting.

Whether you’re looking for art, good food, nature, shopping, or sports, you’re sure to find something here that will entice you.

Experience a slice of the world of university life and feel young again – or feel like you’re all grown up!

38. Hank Williams’s Gravesite

More than 25,000 individuals take a trip to Hank Williams’s Gravesite annually, which makes it a surprising addition to the top list of Alabama attractions.

It is located in Montgomery, Alabama in the Oakwood Cemetery Annex.

Williams’ enjoyed a short career in music, but it was nothing if not memorable.

Superfans of Williams have plucked the grass from around his grave so much that it was eventually replaced completely with Astroturf, which makes the grave – and the grave of Williams’ wife, Audrey, stand out significantly.

The artificial bright green contrasts with the natural hues of every place around it.

Address: 1269-1399 Upper Wetumpka Rd, Montgomery, AL, United States

39. Neversink Pit

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The Neversink Pit is one of Alabama’s more unique tourist attractions.

It is located in the north of the state and is a bit of a cross between a cave and a sinkhole.

It’s a majestic sight to behold, which is probably why it’s not just a hotspot for climbers, but for photographers as well.

The Neversink Pit is a magnificent geological marvel.

It measures 40 feet in width at its peak entrance and drops by a whopping 162 feet to a floor nearly 80 feet in width.

Many people aim to climb it, and they’re greeted by different vistas each season.

In the spring, ribbons of water fall after the rain.

In the summer, rare species of ferns drape over the sides.

In the winter, ice sheets make things extra chilly. It’s equal parts fun, intimidating, and breathtaking.

The Southeastern Cave Conservancy spent years trying to keep the Neversink Pit pristine before purchasing the property entirely with donations in 1995.

The organization now maintains watch over the pit’s ecology and overseas guest activity.

This is especially important because of the endangered plants growing in the Neversink Pit and the vulnerable “community” of bats that calls this cave home.

Address: Unnamed Road, Fackler, AL 35746, United States

40. Sloss Furnaces

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The Sloss Furnaces is an incredibly national historic landmark and one of the most unique things to do in Birmingham, Alabama .

In 1882, the furnaces began their function as a blast furnace for pig-iron.

In 1971, the Sloss Furnaces site was shut down, and it was then preserved as one of the things to see for the public.

The fascinating structures were named after Colonel James Withers Sloss, one of Birmingham’s founders who promoted the development of railroads.

He built this company on land spanning 50 acres, which was donated for the purposes of industrial growth.

Only two furnaces could be built even on that huge amount of space.

Each furnace is 60 feet in height and 18 feet in width, and they are surrounded by the items, machines, and tools used in the pig-iron production process.

Sloss eventually sold his company when he wanted to retire.

The park then expanded, accommodating new boilers, and they soon grew to be one of the world’s biggest industry players.

Cottages were set up for workers to live in and improvements were made repeatedly throughout the years.

They were shut down after the passing of the US Clean Air Act.

The Alabama State Fair Authority then received them as a donation and preservationists made sure the site was saved instead of demolished.

The Sloss Furnaces now function as an industrial museum, providing a globally renowned metal arts program and teaching visitors an interpretive history of the industry.

It is also often used as a venue for concerts and festivals, and there’s no entry fee, so it’s one of the few free things to do in the state.

Address: 20 32nd St N, Birmingham, AL 35222, United States

41. Natural Bridge

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The Natural Bridge is one of the must see points of interest in Alabama.

It is surrounded by unbelievably lush foliage as well as delightful and awe-inspiring rock formations, but the uniqueness of this bridge, made of iron ore and sandstone, outshines them all.

Over 200 million years ago, this bridge was slowly being formed outside what is now known as the William Bankhead National Forest.

It spans the area of a cave and measures 148 feet in length and 50 feet in height.

Native Americans have lived here for centuries, and it became a national park in 1954.

You cannot walk over the bridge now due to safety, but it’s amazing enough to walk through and take photos.

If you walk a little farther, you’ll find a mysterious Native American head carving believed to depict a former chief.

Address: County RD 314, Natural Bridge, AL 35577, United States

42. Southeastern Raptor Center

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If you’re looking for fun things to do in Alabama, you can’t go wrong with the Southeastern Raptor Center .

Founded in the mid-1970s, it was created after Dr. Milton received requests to help injured birds that had been taken to the College of Veterinary Medicine and Auburn University.

Eventually, donations and volunteer work allowed for the creation of the raptor barn, followed by a housing area.

The Southeastern Raptor Center has since helped thousands of birds of prey, treating them and releasing them into the wild as one of the top specialists for this field in Alabama.

As such, the center is an amazing option among places to visit in the state, especially for bird enthusiasts.

Address: 1350 Pratt-Carden Dr, Auburn, AL 36849, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Alabama

Alabama’s places to visit are fun, exciting, and unique.

Whether you’ve got a huge budget or want something free, there are sure to be Alabama vacation spots that fit your idea of the perfect holiday.

Hopefully, this travel guide has helped you determine your own picks for the top things to do in Alabama!

The 25 Best Things to Do in Alabama

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Nestled between Mississippi and Florida on the Gulf Coast, Alabama is one of the South’s shining stars. Perfect for road tripping, you’ll find all sorts of amazing natural, cultural, and historical attractions scattered across the Yellowhammer State.

Nature enthusiasts will love spotting rare “glowworms” in Dismals Canyon, searching for cascades in the Land of a Thousand Waterfalls, and taking a scenic hike to the highest point in Alabama. If you prefer a beach vacation, Alabama’s Gulf Coast is lined with white sand beaches, including the 32 miles of beachfront at the popular Orange Beach.

History buffs will love learning about the Civil Rights Movement at the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute or checking out Native American artifacts at Moundville Archaeological Park. And if you’re traveling with kids, Alabama is chock full of family-friendly attractions. 

You can spend your trip doing everything from conducting science experiments at Birmingham ‘s McWane Science Center to holding baby gators at Alligator Alley. Whether you plan to get cultured in the capital city of Montgomery, go brewery hopping in Huntsville, or attend the annual Mardi Gras celebration in Mobile, there really is something for everyone!

With so many vibrant cities and regions to explore, you’ll find tons of exciting things to see and do in Alabama. To make it easy to plan your next adventure, we’ve compiled a list of the best things to do in the Yellowhammer State, including the top natural attractions, historic sites, and family-friendly destinations.

Our Alabama bucket list includes the best of the best, including the state’s hidden gems and coastal treasures! With so many things to see, do, and eat, you’re bound to have an incredible time exploring this charming Southern state. 

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 25 Best Things to Do in Alabama

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1. Go Brewery Hopping in Huntsville

When it comes to craft beer, Alabama is doing something right. You’ll find all sorts of innovative breweries throughout the Yellowhammer State, but if you’re looking for the best city to go brewery hopping, Huntsville is your best bet!

You can start your boozy tour on Campus No. 805 , a refurbished school building that’s now home to all sorts of trendy restaurants, bars, and shops. Here you’ll find up-and-coming microbrewery Salty Nut Brewery where you should be sure to sample their popular Imperial Moustache Red. 

After that, head over to neighboring Yellowhammer Brewing , which has been brewing beers with a Southern twist since 2010. Plus, Yellowhammer shares a space with a wood fire pizza place in case you need something to soak up the booze! 

On Campus 805, you’ll also find the trendy Straight to Ale , where you can savor their famous Monkeynaut IPA. If you’ve got the tolerance for more, Pints & Pixels is right down the road. With a solid menu of local brews and all sorts of ‘80s arcade games, this is the perfect place to end your tipsy tour of Huntsville.

2. Learn Something New at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center

If you’re looking for family-friendly Alabama attractions, you’ll love exploring the U.S. Space & Rocket Center . Located in Huntsville, the museum touts itself as the “Earth’s largest space museum,” and it totally lives up to the hype!

Take a look around, and you’ll find over 1,500 rocketry and space exploration artifacts, a wide range of space-related exhibits, and all sorts of information about the history of the space program. 

Plus, you can learn all about what it’s like to work in the International Space Station at the ISS: Science on Orbit exhibit, glimpse a real-life Saturn V rocket, experience 3Gs of centrifugal force on the G-Force Accelerator, board the Discovery Shuttle simulator, and so much more!

After that, check out a movie or presentation at either the on-site National Geographic Theater or the Spacedome IMAX. And don’t miss out on Rocket Park, where you can get up close and personal with 27 rockets and missiles. There are so many cool things to do at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center you can easily spend an entire afternoon exploring this one-of-a-kind museum.

3. Visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s Rosenbaum House Museum

Architecture buffs will definitely want to add a tour of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Rosenbaum House Museum to their Alabama bucket list. The single-family home was built for Stanley and Mildred Rosenbaum back in 1940 and now stands proud as a member of the National Register of Historic Places.

The Rosenbaum family used the home until 1999, when they donated it to the city of Florence, Alabama. A prime example of Wright’s Usonian style, the house was designed to be both affordable and utilitarian and is the first of dozens of such Usonian homes. 

Take a tour of the Rosenbaum House, and you’ll have the chance to check out the home’s Wright-designed furniture, multilevel steel-cantilevered roofs, and Wright’s innovative use of natural cypress wood materials. Another key feature of the Rosenbaum House is the heavy use of glass and natural materials to allow each room to blend in with the area’s natural setting and create an indoor/outdoor living experience.

4. Marvel at the ‘Glowworms’ in Dismals Canyon

Visiting Dismals Canyon at night is easily one of the most unique things to do in Alabama. That’s because this is one of the few places on the planet where you can find dismalites, which are actually incredibly rare fly larvae.

Searching for fly larvae might sound gross, but when the sun goes down, the unique insects will begin to emit a bluish-green light, transforming the pitch-black landscape into an otherworldly light show! 

The 85-acre nature conservatory is draped in moss, which is where the dismalites, or “glowworms,” thrive. If you want to see this unique natural phenomenon for yourself, you can book a 45-minute guided night tour of Dismals Canyon .  

Dismals Canyon is also home to two cascading waterfalls and some of the largest Canadian Hemlock trees in the world, making this a great spot to hike during the day. You can follow the 1.5-mile trail through the canyon floor, which will take you past caverns, massive boulders, gushing waterfalls, and towering trees.

5. Get Outdoors in the Land of a Thousand Waterfalls

Outdoor enthusiasts will love exploring all the natural wonders in Bankhead National Forest. Located just 90 minutes from Birmingham, this 180,000-acre area is home to beautiful forests, countless waterfalls, and 90 miles of trails. If hiking to waterfalls is your thing, a trip to Bankhead National Forest will not disappoint! 

No trip to Bankhead is complete without paying a visit to the beautiful Kinlock Falls. From the parking area, you can reach this 25-foot-wide fall via the easy 0.25-mile trail. Be sure to bring a towel and bathing suit because this is a popular spot for swimming.

Photography buffs will love snapping scenic shots of the picture-perfect Caney Creek Falls and Sougahoagdee Falls, while hikers will love working up a sweat on the 11.3-mile round-trip trail to the 70-foot-tall Bee Branch Falls. With so many cool hikes and stunning waterfalls to discover, it’s no wonder why visitors return to Bankhead National Forest again and again.

6. Photograph the Otherworldly Neversink Pit

It’s no wonder why this unique geological wonder is one of the coolest Alabama attractions – it’s astoundingly beautiful! A combination of a sinkhole and a cave, Neversink is 40 feet wide at the top and drops down a whopping 162 feet to the floor. Not only is this an ultra-popular spot for climbers, but photographers flock here year-round to capture stunning images.

One of the coolest things about Neversink is that the view on the way down changes with the season. Head here in the spring, and you may spot waterfalls, whereas you’ll be greeted by lush ferns in the summer and ice sheets in the winter.

To reach Neversink, you’ll have to make the strenuous 30-minute hike up the mountainside. But your efforts will be rewarded with amazing views inside the limestone formation. 

Unfortunately, you can only repel down (and climb back up) Neversink if you’re an experienced climber with vertical caving skills. If you’ve got what it takes, all you have to do is obtain a special permit using the online permit system , and you’re good to go!

7. Search for Lost Treasures at the Unclaimed Baggage Center

If you’re looking for unique things to do in Alabama, you should definitely visit the quirky Unclaimed Baggage Center . Located in Scottsboro in northeast Alabama, this is the only retailer of lost luggage in the US! 

Although uncommon, roughly 0.03% of all checked luggage is lost, and that’s where the Unclaimed Baggage Center comes in. After all efforts to find the owners of unclaimed bags have been made and claims are paid out to passengers, unclaimed bags are sent to the Unclaimed Baggage Center. The items are either sold, recycled, or repurposed. 

Pay a visit to this unique shop, and you never know what long-lost treasures you’ll unearth. Over the years, shopkeepers have found tons of unique items, including a camera from the Space Shuttle, an authentic Egyptian Burial Mask dating back to 1500 BC, and a hand-carved Renaissance lute. 

Take a look around, and you’ll find everything from clothing, jewelry, and handbags to cameras, suitcases, and books. And if you’re really lucky, you may even find a historic artifact of your own!

8. Go Underground at Cathedral Caverns State Park

Cathedral Caverns State Park is located an easy 25-minute drive from Scottsboro. Explore the caves, and you’ll stumble across some really cool natural wonders, including the cave’s massive entrance, “frozen” waterfall, and huge stalagmite forest. The caverns are also home to Goliath, a 45-foot-tall stalagmite that’s one of the largest in the world!

One of the most fun things to do in Alabama is to take a tour of Cathedral Caverns. The 90-minute tour begins at the huge entrance, which measures 126 feet wide and 25 feet high. The paved pathway then leads you to all of the top attractions and ends in the cave’s famous forest of stalagmites and stalactites. 

The cave tour is bound to be fun for the whole family. Plus, once you’re done, you can enjoy a snack at the picnic tables or even mine for gemstones and fossils in the mining dirt!

9. Go Hiking & Swimming in Little River Canyon

If you’re searching for the best outdoor Alabama attractions, Little River Canyon deserves a spot on your travel to-do list. Nestled in northeastern Alabama near Fort Payne, Little River Canyon is a lush nature preserve that’s home to the longest mountaintop river in the US and one of the most popular waterfalls in the South!

You’ll find plenty to keep you busy at Little River Canyon. Go hiking or mountain biking on the 26 miles of trails, go rock climbing on the preserve’s challenging sandstone cliffs, or go fishing, kayaking, and swimming in the river. 

One of the coolest things about Little River Canyon is that its mountaintop river allows for tons of cascading waterfalls and swimming holes. And one of the most popular activities in the entire state is to hike to Little River Falls and on to the Martha’s Falls swimming hole. 

The rocky trail is just 0.75 miles long and will take you to one of the most popular waterfalls and swimming holes in Little River Canyon, where you can cool off on a hot summer’s day.

10. Geek Out at the McWane Science Center

If you’re road tripping around Alabama with kids and you find yourself in Birmingham, a visit to the McWane Science Center is an absolute must! This place is chock full of interactive exhibits and opportunities for hands-on science experiments, which means it’s fun for the whole family.

One of the coolest things about the McWane Science Center is all of the permanent exhibits, which educate kids about everything from “Alabama Dinosaurs” to “Sea Monsters.” You’ll also love checking out all of the sea creatures in the World of Water Aquarium and getting up close and personal with them in the Shark & Ray Tank!

The McWane Science Center is also home to the Challenger Learning Center, as well as an IMAX Dome theater and the high-tech Rushton Science Theater. From bubble rooms to intergalactic VR experiences, there’s plenty to keep you and your little ones entertained for hours on end.

11. Feel the Need for Speed at the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum

Spread across 740 acres of land in the heart of Birmingham, motorsports enthusiasts won’t want to miss out on the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum . This unique museum is not only chock full of rare and vintage cars, but it’s home to the largest motorcycle collection in the world!

The museum was founded in the 1980s by former racer and car collector George Barber. The museum originally featured Barber’s personal car collection, but he later changed his focus to collecting motorcycles.

The museum is now home to over 1,600 motorcycles, as well as an impressive array of vintage vehicles, unique racecars, and the largest Lotus collection in the world. Among the most popular attractions in the museum are the rare Britten V1000, the 1926 Royal Enfield 200 Sport, 1894 Hildebrand & Wolfmüller, and the 1959 Ducati 200SS.

Time your visit right and you may even be able to check out a thrilling racing event at the museum’s 2.38-mile racetrack!

12. Learn About Birmingham’s Industrial Past at Sloss Furnaces

Paying a visit to Birmingham’s Sloss Furnaces is easily one of the most unique things to do in Alabama. Formerly the largest manufacturer of pig iron on earth, the Sloss Furnaces operated from 1882 until 1970. 

While they’re no longer functional, this National Historic Landmark is now a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike. Visitors flock here every year to learn about Birmingham’s industrial roots and take amazing photos of this unique site. It’s a popular spot for photoshoots, and some couples even opt to get married here!

Located two miles from downtown Birmingham, getting to the Sloss Furnaces is super convenient. Plus, you can easily do a self-guided tour by signing in at the Visitors Center and picking up one of the self-guided tour brochures.

As you explore the area, you’ll be able to examine the intricate network of pipes, the sky-high stoves, and the industrial interior of the plant. Plus, you’ll learn all about what it was like to work there, the iron-making process, and Sloss Furnaces’ role in the city’s history.

13. Eat Your Way Through Alabama’s Foodiest City

No trip to Alabama is complete without sampling some of the state’s famous barbeque, and Birmingham boasts some of the best! SAW’S Soul Kitchen is arguably one of the most famous restaurants in town for traditional soul food. But if it’s ribs you’re after, you’ll want to beeline it for the iconic Dreamland Bar-B-Que or Miss Myra’s .

Thanks to Alabama’s long stretch of coastline, Birmingham is blessed with a wide range of excellent seafood-focused eateries. The award-winning Automatic Seafood and Oysters and 5 Point Public House Oyster Bar are two of the best places to go for farm-fresh Gulf oysters and locally sourced seafood fare. 

For elevated Southern cuisine, try the 72-Hour Grilled Short Ribs with Wild Mushrooms at the upscale Hot and Hot Fish Club or the Buttermilk-Fried Chicken with Truffled Potatoes at Café Dupont . Or for something a bit more low-key, there’s always the homemade chicken and waffles from Yo’ Mama’s and the pulled pork-topped mac and cheese at John’s City Diner .

If you want to veer away from Southern fare, you’ll have tons to choose from. For a one-stop-shop, head over to The Pizitz Food Hall , where you can sample everything from Vietnamese pho to Indian street food to Hawaiian poke bowls!

14. Get Your Culture Fix at the Birmingham Museum of Art

The Birmingham Museum of Art is hands down one of the top Alabama attractions for art enthusiasts. Even if you’re not all that into art, you won’t be disappointed by this incredible museum. 

The Birmingham Museum of Art features over 25,000 works of art across three stories. Plus, you’ll have the chance to glimpse a wide range of different multi-cultural works – from Asian and African to ancient and contemporary. 

Don’t miss out on the popular collection of beautiful Vietnamese ceramics. After that, you can marvel at African headdresses, American textiles, and European paintings. 

Plus, some of the biggest draws of the Birmingham Museum of Art are the works by landscape artist Carrie Hill, miniaturist Hannah Elliot, and Spanish surrealist artist Salvador Dalí. Depending on when you visit, the museum may be hosting a special exhibition, a family-friendly class, or one of their popular Art on the Rocks events, so it’s well worth checking the website to see what’s on.

15. Learn About History at the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute 

If you’re a history buff, a visit to the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute should be at the very top of your Alabama bucket list. It’s no secret that Alabama was a hot spot for civil rights activists in the 1950s, and ‘60s and there’s no better place to learn about it than Birmingham.  

Located in downtown Birmingham’s Civil Rights District, the museum houses a range of interactive exhibitions that educate visitors about the Civil Rights Movement, its key players, African-American life, and the continued fight for human and civil rights around the world.

You’ll also come across sobering artifacts of segregation, including separate drinking fountains for White and Black students. The Institute also hosts a range of educational events throughout the year, so it’s well worth checking out the website to see what’s happing during your visit.

If you want to learn more about the Civil Rights Movement in Alabama, meander around the Civil Rights District and check out the 16th Street Baptist Church, Kelly Ingram Park, and other top sites in Birmingham.

16. Root for the Crimson Tide at the University of Alabama

It’s no secret that Alabama takes its college football very seriously. If you’re looking for the most fun things to do in Alabama, you’ll definitely want to root for the Alabama Crimson Tide at Bryant-Denny Stadium . Be sure to don the university’s colors – crimson, gray, and white – so you fit in!

Located on the University of Alabama campus in Tuscaloosa, it’s well worth timing your visit to Alabama to catch a game in person. Get there early because the pre-game activities and tailgating are half the fun of going to a game at Bryant-Denny Stadium!

Before you take your seat in the stadium, you’ll definitely want to make a stop at the historic Quad before taking part in the Elephant Stomp pep rally and marching to the stadium. You can also spot the players walking from their buses to the stadium while being cheered on by thousands of rabid fans during the Walk of Champions.

But if you happen to be visiting during the off-season, you can still take a tour of the historic 1929 stadium.

17. Go Back in Time at Moundville Archaeological Park

Located 20 minutes outside of Tuscaloosa, Moundville Archaeological Park is one of the best Native American heritage sites in the US and one of the coolest things to do in Alabama! 

The area was once the political and ceremonial heart of the Mississippians (a Native American society) between the 11th and 16th centuries. Today, you’ll find 29 platform mounds surrounding a central plaza that were once used as residences as well as public buildings.

You can take some time to stroll around the grounds and marvel at these archaeological wonders. Set on a bluff overlooking the Black Warrior River, the area is incredibly picturesque. After you wander the grounds and pay a visit to the informative onsite museum, you can take some time to walk along the half-mile nature trail or have a scenic lunch in the picnic area.

18. Go Rock Climbing at Cherokee Rock Village

Nestled in northeastern Alabama, Cherokee Rock Village is a 200-acre park that’s perched on top of Lookout Mountain. The area is famous for its towering sandstone rock formations and boulder-studded landscape. Plus, its mountaintop setting offers stunning views over Weiss Lake.

Outdoor enthusiasts will love spending some time exploring all of the natural wonders Cherokee Rock Village has to offer. If climbing is your thing, you’re in luck because visitors flock here from all over the world to tackle the park’s famous sandstone formations. Experienced climbers will find more than 200 rope routes, as well as opportunities for trad climbing and bouldering. 

If you prefer to keep your feet on the ground, you’ll have 14 miles of trails to choose from and a range of hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding opportunities. With so much to see and do, you might even consider staying in the onsite campground for a night or two to maximize your time exploring this beautiful corner of Alabama.

19. Hike to the Highest Point in Alabama

Cheaha State Park is another one of the best sights in Alabama for nature lovers. Dating back to 1933, this is not only the oldest park in Alabama, but it’s home to the highest point in Alabama, too!

The 2,799 acres of land are littered with countless age-old trees and granite boulders, creating an impossibly beautiful setting. But for the best views of Cheaha State Park, you’ll definitely want to head to the top of Cheaha Mountain – the highest point in Alabama. 

There are multiple ways to reach the top, but the moderate 1-mile out-and-back Lake Trail is arguably the most popular. This scenic hike takes 2 to 3 hours to complete and takes you to Rock Garden before leading you to the observation tower at the top of Cheaha Mountain. 

Don’t worry if you’re short on time or just don’t feel like hiking. You can also opt to drive to the observation tower at the top to take in the views and tick off this Alabama bucket list activity! 

20. Explore the Rosa Parks Library & Museum

Located on the Civil Rights Trail, the Rosa Parks Museum is one of the top Alabama attractions for those wanting to delve deeper into the Civil Rights Movement. Located in Montgomery – on the very spot where Rosa Parks was arrested in 1955 – the museum is dedicated to telling Park’s story in a way that’s approachable for both kids and adults alike. 

Explore the museum, and you’ll find all sorts of historic artifacts, interactive activities, and educational exhibits. You’ll learn all about the Montgomery bus boycott, what life was like in the segregated South, and the key players in the fight for civil rights.

Arguably the most popular exhibit is the replica of the bus Parks was arrested on after she refused to give up her seat to a White man. With this unique exhibit, you can actually watch a reenactment of what happened that day.

If you’ve got the kids in tow, there’s also a children’s wing that tells these stories in an interactive and kid-friendly manner. 

21. Hold a Baby Alligator at Alligator Alley

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Alabama, look no further than Alligator Alley ! Located in Summerdale, the alligator farm was started in 2004 as a haven for rescue alligators. The farm is now home to 450 alligators, which range from hatchlings to adults. 

Take a guided tour of the farm, and you’ll have the chance to spot these reptiles swimming in ponds and basking in the Alabama sunshine. The elevated boardwalk gives you the unique opportunity to view these creatures in their natural habitat while keeping a safe distance. 

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can get up close and personal with the gators after your guided tour. Head over to the Gator Station, where you can hold a baby alligator. Or, if you’re feeling really brave, time your visit with the feeding times (11 am, 1 pm, and 4 pm) and feed the reptiles yourself!

22. Attend the Oldest Mardi Gras Celebration in the US

Mardi Gras might be synonymous with New Orleans, but did you know that the very first Mardi Gras celebration in the US took place in Mobile, Alabama, in 1703? If you happen to be in Alabama during this epic celebration, you won’t regret spending it in the coastal town of Mobile!

You’ll for sure want to visit the Mobile Carnival Museum to learn all about the history and traditions of Mardi Gras in the city and check out all of the elaborate costumes, historic posters and photographs, and the popular interactive float exhibition.

Now that you’re in the Mardi Gras spirit, you’ll have weeks of activities to keep you busy. You can join in on one of the many parades, check out a procession of intricately decorated floats, or get all dolled up in an elaborate costume and plenty of beaded necklaces. However, you decide to celebrate, be prepared to have the time of your life!

23. Bike Around Dauphin Island

Biking around Dauphin Island is easily one of the most fun things to do in Alabama. Brimming with white sand beaches, naturally beautiful green spaces, and important historic sites, you can easily spend a day or two exploring this beautiful barrier island.

You’ll find tons of places to rent bikes scattered across Dauphin Island. Plus, many rental companies will even bring them directly to you! 

But the best part is the island is extremely bike-friendly. Between the Bienville Avenue Trail and Lemoyne Drive Trail, you’ll have 15 miles of recreational cycling to choose from.

If you’ve only got one day, head over to the east side of the island where you’ll find star attractions like the historic Fort Gaines , the Alabama Aquarium at the Dauphin Island Sea , the Audubon Bird Sanctuary , and East End Beach. 

If you have more time and want to spend the weekend biking around the island, the west side of the island boasts picture-perfect Dauphin Beach, the Goat Tree Reserve, West End Beach, and so much more!

24. Enjoy a Fun-Filled Beach Vacation at Orange Beach

If you’re road-tripping along Alabama’s coastline, you’ll want to make a pit stop at Orange Beach. With 32 miles of gorgeous beachfront, 10 public-access beaches, and endless entertainment options, this is the perfect pick for a family-friendly getaway!

Nature enthusiasts will love exploring Gulf State Park, hiking the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail, and going bird watching in the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge. Or, if you’re just looking for a relaxing beach vacation, head over to Orange Beach, where you can soak up the sun or partake in a variety of water sports. 

If you’re traveling with little ones, you’ll love all of the rides and games at Adventure Island . For even more entertainment, the Wharf boasts all sorts of cool shops, an arcade, and a mini-golf course.

From sea-to-table restaurants to popular surfing spots to the Wharf’s famous Ferris wheel, a trip to Orange Beach is bound to be fun for the whole family!

25. Have a Relaxing Stay in Fairhope

If you’re looking for a relaxing retreat, it’s well worth taking a day or two to unwind in the tranquil town of Fairhope. Nestled on the Gulf Coast and the shores of Mobile Bay, Fairhope is your quintessential Southern town that’s just brimming with Southern hospitality and charm. 

Explore the coast, and you’ll find the Fairhope Municipal Pier and Park, a white sand beach, and endless water sports activities. Whether you want to spend your days fishing, boating, or just soaking up the Southern sunshine on the beach, Fairhope has everything you need for a chilled-out stay.

Head just a little bit inland, and you’ll find yourself in the heart of town. Take some time to explore Fairhope Avenue, and you’ll find tons of cute shops, cool art galleries, and excellent Southern-inspired eateries. It doesn’t get any more charming than Fairhope Avenue!

Time your visit to Fairhope right, and you may even be in town for the city’s famous Arts and Crafts Festival, Knights of Ecor Rouge parade, or the annual Mardi Gras celebration. But no matter when you visit, there’s always something fun going on in Fairhope! 

There you have it! The 25 best things to do in Alabama. What’s your favorite thing to do in the Yellowhammer State?

Planning a trip to Alabama? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Outdoor enthusiasts will love exploring all the natural wonders in Bankhead National Forest. Located just 90 minutes from Birmingham, this 180,000-acre area is home to beautiful forests, countless waterfalls, and 90 miles of trails. If hiking to waterfalls is your thing, a trip to Bankhead National Forest will not disappoint!

If you’re looking for unique things to do in Alabama, you should definitely visit the quirky Unclaimed Baggage Center. Located in Scottsboro in northeast Alabama, this is the only retailer of lost luggage in the US! Pay a visit to this unique shop, and you never know what long-lost treasures you’ll unearth.

One of the most fun things to do in Alabama is to take a tour of Cathedral Caverns. The 90-minute tour begins at the huge entrance, which measures 126 feet wide and 25 feet high. The paved pathway then leads you to all of the top attractions and ends in the cave’s famous forest of stalagmites and stalactites. The caverns are also home to Goliath, a 45-foot-tall stalagmite that’s one of the largest in the world!

No trip to Alabama is complete without sampling some of the state’s famous barbeque, and Birmingham boasts some of the best! SAW’S Soul Kitchen is arguably one of the most famous restaurants in town for traditional soul food. But if it’s ribs you’re after, you’ll want to beeline it for the iconic Dreamland Bar-B-Que or Miss Myra’s.

Cheaha State Park is another one of the best sights in Alabama for nature lovers. Dating back to 1933, this is not only the oldest park in Alabama, but it’s home to the highest point in Alabama, too! The 2,799 acres of land are littered with countless age-old trees and granite boulders, creating an impossibly beautiful setting. But for the best views of Cheaha State Park, you’ll definitely want to head to the top of Cheaha Mountain – the highest point in Alabama.

If you’re road-tripping along Alabama’s coastline, you’ll want to make a pit stop at Orange Beach. With 32 miles of gorgeous beachfront, 10 public-access beaches, and endless entertainment options, this is the perfect pick for a family-friendly getaway! From sea-to-table restaurants to popular surfing spots to the Wharf’s famous Ferris wheel, a trip to Orange Beach is bound to be fun for the whole family!

About the Author:

Justine is a writer and editor who always seems to take the unconventional route in life. She also suffers from a serious case of wanderlust! In 2013, she left her hometown in California and set off on a yearlong round-the-world journey with her now-husband – they never looked back. Since then, she’s lived the expat life in Indonesia, Cambodia, China, Vietnam, Mexico, and now Dubai. Along the way, she's written and edited for magazines, newspapers, and websites in Asia and beyond. When she's not stoking her wanderlust by working on travel articles for Wandering Wheatleys, Justine is busy caring for her many foster cats in Dubai, seeking out all the delicious vegetarian food, and taking every chance she gets to explore a new corner of the world!

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Alabama (AL) » 25 Best Things to Do in Alabama

25 Best Things to Do in Alabama

When most people envision the state of Alabama, they think about a laid-back area in the United States that doesn’t offer much to visitors. The fact of the matter is, however, when you visit Alabama, you will find many things to do.

Alabama is rather unique in that it caters to those who want an exciting, eventful vacation as well as to those who would simply like to sit back and watch the world go by. Of course, it is also a state that is rich in cultural heritage and the history of the state is certainly well worth your attention.

This review of the top 25 things to do in Alabama will help to introduce you to the state and will certainly whet your appetite for what it has to offer.

1. US Space and Rocket Center (Huntsville)

This unique Museum, located in Huntsville, is the perfect stopover for anyone that has a love of science or space travel history. It outlines the US space program and includes a number of key artifacts that are certain to be a highlight of your visit.

It is commonly known as Earth’s largest space Museum and since 1970, it has thrilled visitors with over 1500 artifacts associated with space exploration. Those artifacts include those of the Apollo program, the Space Shuttle program and Army aircraft and rocketry. It is also the home to 2 different camp programs that can extend your enjoyment of this attraction.

2. Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail (Opelika)

What could be closer to a vacation than a great round of golf? If you are visiting the state of Alabama, you have the opportunity to tee off from one of the most renowned collections of championship golf courses in the world.

The Robert Trent Jones golf Trail construction project had its beginnings in the 1980s. It is the brainchild of Dr. David Bronner, who was inspired by the popular movie Field of Dreams and a desire to help the state of Alabama. He wanted to do more than simply build a single golf course; he wanted 378 holes at 8 different sites throughout Alabama, all of which would be constructed at the same time.

In the end, the Robert Trent Jones golf Trail included 26 golf courses, with some 468 championship holes at 11 sites throughout the state. You haven’t golfed until you have golfed in Alabama.

3. Birmingham Zoo (Birmingham)

This zoological Park, home to more than 200 species and 800 individual animals is spread out over approximately 122 acres in Birmingham, Alabama. Each year, more than 470,000 visitors come to the Birmingham zoo to watch the animals and to take advantage of the programs that the zoo makes available.

From its early start in 1955, it had a few exotic animals that were first kept at a firehouse. Eventually, it grew to the point where a park was established. Some of the top exhibits include the Predator Building, Primate Building, Kangaroo Kontry, Flamingo Lagoon, Alligator Swamp and the Sea Lions Splash Show. There are also camel rides available in the spring and summer.

4. USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park (Mobile)

For those who are interested in naval history, the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park is certainly well worth a visit. After the USS Alabama was ordered scrapped in 1962, the park was eventually established in 1977. The battleship, itself, is a US national historic landmark and there are several other vessels on site, including the USS Drum (submarine), which is also a US national historic landmark.

Both the USS Alabama and USS drum are World War II era vessels. There are also additional features at the battleship Memorial Park, including a river patrol boat used in the Vietnam War, bomber and fighter planes and various pieces of military equipment. It is also home to both a Korean War and Vietnam War Memorial.

5. McWane Science Center (Birmingham)

Established in July, 1998, the McWane Science Center is an interactive, state-of-the-art location where both children and adults can explore the world of science around them. The building itself is more than 9000 square feet and inside, you will find a number of interactive exhibits, as well as an IMAX Dome theater and the Challenger Learning Center.

More than 500,000 artifacts were brought from the Red Belt Museum at the establishment of the science center. Included among those artifacts are those of Native American descent, as well as fossils and precious minerals. Some of the highlights of the science center include dinosaur fossils (Mosasaurs and Appalachiosaurus), as well as an 80 foot fossil whale, which is the state fossil of Alabama.

6. Gulf Shores (Gulf Shores)

Although there are great vacation locations throughout the state of Alabama, the area of Gulf Shores, found on Alabama’s Gulf Coast, is certainly well worth a visit. It provides opportunities for almost any type of vacation seeker, including those that would just like to sit on the beach and relax.

As you would expect from a world-class beach vacation location, there are a number of lodging possibilities, from condo and beach house rentals to bed and breakfasts. Once you are in the area, you can check out some of the local attractions, including shopping, golf or the local arts and museums. There is also plenty of outdoor fun, including fishing, boating, cruises and various beach or water sports.

7. Huntsville Botanical Gardens (Huntsville)

The Huntsville botanical Gardens are conveniently located near the US Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama. It receives approximately 308,000 visitors annually and it is open year-round, although there is a fee for entry into the gardens. It is well worth the price, however, as there are a number of attractions included.

Some of the top attractions of the botanical gardens include a butterfly house, biblical garden, nature garden, daylily garden, herb garden, fern glade and a nature trail. There is also a butterfly house that is open on a seasonal basis. Be sure to leave time to wander through the various features of the botanical gardens and to soak in the sites.

8. Cheaha State Park (Delta)

There are a number of state parks operating in the state of Alabama, but Cheaha State Park, created in 1933, is the oldest. Located on approximately 2800 acres in southwestern Cleburne and Northern Clay Counties, it includes a general store and restaurant, boat launch, campsites, hiking and a number of other amenities.

The park is open for day use, including swimming, fishing and picnicking. There are also plenty of hiking opportunities available, with scenic overlooks that are certain to take your breath away. For those that are interested in staying overnight at the park, there are 73 campsites located within it that include modern amenities, such as electric, water and sewer hookups. If you are looking for less rustic surroundings, the Cheaha Lodge is available with 30 hotel rooms and is complete with a swimming pool.

9. Point Mallard Park (Decatur)

This public park, located in Decatur, Alabama is on 500 acres and is available year-round for visitors. It is adjacent to the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge and is well worth a visit if you are in the state.

The primary attraction of the park is the Blackburn Aquatic Center and it includes one of the first wave pools established in the United States. The park also includes a diving pool and a number of large slides, including the Pro Bowl, Sky Pond, Duck Pond and the Three Flumes Slide. Don’t be afraid to bring the kids, because there is also a children’s activity area (Squirt Factory), Sand Beach and various playgrounds, concessions and other amenities.

10. Birmingham Civil Rights Institute (Birmingham)

Alabama certainly was a hotspot of civil rights activities in the 1950s and 1960s, so it is appropriate that there is a civil rights Institute available in Birmingham. This Institute was established in 1992 in order to show the struggles of the American civil rights movement. It saw more than 25,000 visitors in its first week of operation.

Inside of the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, you will walk through a self-guided journey, meant to provide a positive outlook for the future. Currently, it also is home to the Smithsonian institution traveling exhibition, let your motto be resistance.

11. Cathedral Caverns State Park (Woodville)

Located in northern Marshall County, southeast of Woodville, Alabama, this state park is home to a cavern of unbelievable awe and beauty. Approximately 11,000 feet of the cavern has been surveyed and explored, although there are still some 2700 feet that are not open to the public. In more recent years, a “wild cave tour” has been established to help explorers see beyond the end of the concrete pathways.

The cavern is home to a number of interesting features, including Goliath, which is said to be the world’s largest column. It stands at 243 feet in circumference and is 45 feet high. It is also home to a 3 inch diameter stalagmite which reaches the ceiling 25 feet above it at a 45° angle. The big room is 200 feet wide and 792 feet long.

A number of activities are available at the park in addition to regular cave tours. Those include day visits for picnicking, overnight tent camping and gem mining.

12. Little River Canyon (Fort Payne)

Have you ever seen a river on top of a mountain? This national preserve, located on Lookout Mountain near Fort Payne is home to the longest mountaintop river in the United States. The Canyon that was created, originally known as May’s Gulf, is said to be the deepest canyon east of the Mississippi River.

A number of activities are available in the Little River Canyon national Park. Hunting and fishing are available on a limited basis but a valid state license is necessary. There are also opportunities for backcountry camping, but only in the locations of Billy’s Ford, Hartline’s Ford and Slant Rock.

13. Alligator Alley (Summerdale)

You could hardly expect a visit the state of Alabama without at least running into an alligator one time. If alligators are of interest to you, then you would certainly want to visit alligator Alley in Summerdale. This alligator farm provides a number of opportunities for alligator lovers as well as for those that are just mildly curious.

Some of the opportunities available to those that visit Alligator Alley include feeding and holding gators. If you would like to see the attractions but not quite so up close and personal, there are also plenty of photography opportunities available as well. While in the area, make sure you visit the Spear Hunting Museum, a rather unique attraction that may be the only one of its kind in the world.

14. Birmingham Museum of Art (Birmingham)

You don’t need to travel far in Alabama to find some excellent cultural opportunities. In Birmingham, the Museum of Art offers you the opportunity to see more than 24,000 different exhibits, including paintings, sculptures and various types of decorative arts. Some of the highlights of the Museum include top collections of Asian art, Renaissance paintings and European decorative arts.

Although there are art exhibits available from around the world, the Birmingham Museum of Art is also home to some of the best collections of Alabama art as well. Included among those collections are those from the miniaturist Hannah Elliott and Carrie Hill, who was known for her landscape art.

15. Bryant Denny Stadium (Tuscaloosa)

You don’t have to be a fan of the University of Alabama to appreciate a visit to the Bryant Denny Stadium, located in Tuscaloosa. Established in 1929, the Stadium originally had a low capacity of 18,000 seats but since that time, it has expanded to hold over 100,000 fans.

Of course, that is a large Stadium by any standards and worldwide, it holds the honor of being the 10th largest stadium. If you’re in town for a game, you certainly will love the visit. If there is not a game taking place or if you are unable to get tickets, there are tours offered every day, once a day, during the week. Make sure to get tickets for the tour in advance, because only 25 individuals will be able to walk through the Stadium with each tour.

16. Bellingrath Gardens (Theodore)

If you are the area of Theodore, Alabama, be sure to take the time to tour and experience the historic property of Bellingrath Gardens. While there, you will thrill to see 900 acres of pristine garden property, which is located along the foul River. Within the 900 acres, 65 acres are cultivated to produce continuous color through annual blooms.

A number of other features are available for your enjoyment at Bellingrath Gardens, including a conservatory, the bridal garden and the great lawn. You can explore the area on foot through a self-guided tour, taking in the sights and sounds or simply relaxing and enjoying all of the beauty that is around you.

17. Rosa Parks Library and Museum (Montgomery)

On December 1, 1955, a brave African-American woman refused to give up her seat to a white man on a Montgomery city bus. That courageous stand earned her the title “the mother of the civil rights”. Her name was Rosa Parks and near the area where she took her courageous stand now stands a Museum in her honor.

Located on Montgomery Street in Montgomery, Alabama, the Rosa Parks Library and Museum is open five days a week, with the exception of holidays. The museum itself is available for a virtual tour but if you’re in the area, you will certainly want to look through the various exhibits that are on-site. Some of the artifacts include a replica of the public bus, original historic documents and a restored 1955 station wagon. There is also a children’s wing, so that the younger generation can familiarize themselves with this brave woman as well.

18. Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum (Birmingham)

Located on 740 acres in Birmingham, Alabama, the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum displays one of the finest collections of vintage motorcycles and automobiles in the world. It was the brainchild of George Barber, who had an interest in vintage motorcycles and opened the first Museum in 1988 with his private collection. Since that time, it has relocated to Birmingham in the area of the Barber motorsports Park.

Over 1450 modern and vintage racing cars and motorcycles are on-site. Not only is it the largest collection of motorcycles in the world, it also houses the largest collection of Lotus racecars as well. Some of the oldest motorcycles date back to 1904 and they represent bikes from 16 different countries throughout the world.

19. Fairhope Avenue (Fairhope)

When you’re in the area of Fairhope, Alabama, you should take some time to visit the downtown area. Not only is it a beautiful and comfortable setting where you can walk around and look at the various shops, there are also a number of interesting items that can be found in the area that are rather unique.

Of course, it is not necessary for you to be a fan of shopping in order to enjoy the downtown area. There are a number of diners that are scattered throughout the area, including some formal dining that is well worth a visit. If you are coming to the downtown area, be sure to arrive early or leave enough time to find a parking space, because it can be difficult to do so.

20. Mobile Carnival Museum (Mobile)

The carnival and Mardi Gras have been in the area of Alabama as well as in other parts of the world for hundreds of years. In Mobile, Alabama, is a museum that is dedicated to the history of the carnivore Mardi Gras, and it is well worth a visit.

The primary part of the museum is associated with the historical evolution of the celebration and how it has grown since its early beginnings to what it is today. Some of the interesting features of the museum include displays of jewels and gowns that were worn by the Queens of the carnival throughout history. There are also a variety of original Mardi Gras posters and art pieces from local artists.

21. Richards-DAR House (Mobile)

Built in 1860 as a home for Charles and Caroline Richards, this property is now a historic house museum located in Mobile, Alabama. Although there are a number of mid-19th century homes located throughout the state, this is considered by many architectural historians to be one of the best preserved. Since 1973, it has been available for touring as a museum and is operated by the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Both the interior and the exterior house some very unique features that are associated with the time period that it was built. There is even some speculation that children’s laughter and voices can be heard in the home, which also attracts some curious individuals as well.

22. Toomer’s Corner (Auburn)

In the city of Auburn, Alabama, is a well-known intersection that has become the hallmark destination of the city. This intersection, located where Magnolia Avenue and College Street meet, is the home to Toomer’s Drugs, which has been operating in the area since 1896.

Although the corner is somewhat unremarkable in and of itself, it is well known throughout the area as being the center of activity within the city. It is also well-known because of the campus life that takes place in the area as well.

23. Alabama Theater (Birmingham)

Located in Birmingham, Alabama, the Alabama Theater was established in 1927 as a premier movie theater in the southeastern area of the United States. The theater is able to seat some 2500 people at any given time and at one time, was home to theaters for the performing arts, vaudeville and first run movies.

Although there were a number of districts theaters in operation at one time, the Alabama Theater is the only one to still be in operation today. One of the primary features of the theater, which is why many people visit, is the large theater pipe organ that still exists. It was included with the theater because, when it was built, films were silent and musical accompaniment was necessary.

24. Paul W. Bryant Museum (Tuscaloosa)

The Bryant Museum, located in Tuscaloosa on the University of Alabama property, first opened its doors in 1985. It is established as a history of Alabama football but it pays particular tribute to Bear Bryant, perhaps one of the leading coaches of all time at the University of Alabama.

Included among the exhibits at this Museum is a painting that was used for a 32-cent postage stamp commemorating this football coach and a Waterford Crystal hound’s-tooth hat. It also contains a list of individuals who were named after Bryant, and the list continues to grow.

25. Mobile History Museum (Mobile)

You don’t have to be from the area of Mobile, Alabama to appreciate what the Mobile History Museum has to offer. It houses a number of exhibits, including some permanent and others that come and go. The primary focus of the museum is on education, and there are tours available on an ongoing basis, as well as outreach programs and resources for educators.

Some of the permanent exhibits include the community gallery, used to highlight artist in the local area and the Faces of Mobile Exhibit, highlighting some of the many people who have been instrumental in the development of the area over the past three centuries.

Further reading:

• 3 Free Things to Do in Selma, Alabama
• Alabama on Wikipedia

25 Best Things to Do in Alabama:

• US Space and Rocket Center (Huntsville)
• Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail (Opelika)
• Birmingham Zoo (Birmingham)
• USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park (Mobile)
• McWane Science Center (Birmingham)
• Gulf Shores (Gulf Shores)
• Huntsville Botanical Gardens (Huntsville)
• Cheaha State Park (Delta)
• Point Mallard Park (Decatur)
• Birmingham Civil Rights Institute (Birmingham)
• Cathedral Caverns State Park (Woodville)
• Little River Canyon (Fort Payne)
• Alligator Alley (Summerdale)
• Birmingham Museum of Art (Birmingham)
• Bryant Denny Stadium (Tuscaloosa)
• Bellingrath Gardens (Theodore)
• Rosa Parks Library and Museum (Montgomery)
• Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum (Birmingham)
• Fairhope Avenue (Fairhope)
• Mobile Carnival Museum (Mobile)
• Richards-DAR House (Mobile)
• Toomer's Corner (Auburn)
• Alabama Theater (Birmingham)
• Paul W. Bryant Museum (Tuscaloosa)
• Mobile History Museum (Mobile)

• 8 Most Inviting Towns in Alabama

While the larger urban areas of Alabama offer many reasons to visit, there is much to see and experience. Birmingham, with its steel industry and rolling hills, may be the Pittsburgh of the South, Tuscaloosa may be the home of the legendary and historic University of Alabama, and Mobile may be the gateway to the Gulf and a treasure trove for Civil War enthusiasts, but pack an overnight bag and consider what makes these small towns in Alabama so inviting.

Gulf Shores

Aerial view of The Hangout at Gulf Shores, Alabama. Editorial credit: Felix Mizioznikov / Shutterstock.com

On Alabama’s Gulf Coast , Gulf Shores has everything the more distant and pricey beach towns in Florida have. Jimmy Buffet often boasted of outings in the area, as did other poets and musicians. If your idea of vacation is sand, sun, and waves, then Gulf Shores lives up to its name. If you prefer something less aquatic, the town still provides. Historians can visit the Fort Morgan historic site. If you like your swimming water shark-free, try Waterville, USA, one of the best water parks in the region. If a nice meal and a drink with friends is more your speed, no one can do better than LuLu’s Gulf Shores Restaurant, which is also family-friendly.

Gault Avenue in Fort Payne, Alabama.

Perhaps the greatest claim to fame of Fort Payne is that it is home to the music group Alabama, the most successful country band in history. If you are not a fan of their music, there is plenty to see and do in the outdoors. Fort Payne is the anchor for one of the state’s great natural landscapes, Lookout Mountain Parkway, and boasts Little River Canyon, practically a wonder of the natural world. Outside of town, Manitou Cave, once occupied by Indigenous People, is certainly worth a visit. While in town, be sure to tour Fort Payne Opera House and Fort Payne Depot Museum, which used to be an actual train station on the old rail line.

Street view of Heflin, Alabama.

This small town sits at the midway point between Atlanta and Birmingham and, as such, was developed as a railroad stop. Heflin is the gateway town to all the outdoor activities of the Choccolocco Wildlife Management Area. After lunch at Marie’s Barbecue House, and once inside the grounds, start exploring the Mountain Center- Natural Resource Center to get your bearings. Heflin is the home of seven hiking trails, five birdwatching trails, a wine trail, and even a canoe trail. If it happens outside, you can likely do it in and around Heflin.

If you know who W.C. Handy is, Florence will be a quasi-religious experience. Known as the Father of the Blues, he was born here in 1873, and the town now boasts the W.C. Handy Home, Museum, and Library. You could spend all day there, or after a snack at Trowbridge's Ice Cream and Sandwich Bar, you can spend time at Wilson Park along the waterfront or the campus of the University of North Alabama. And don’t neglect Pope’s Tavern Museum or the Rosenbaum House designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Since you are close, you may move on to…

Muscle Shoals

City of Muscle Shoals sign in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, USA. Editorial credit: Luisa P Oswalt / Shutterstock.com

What do Aretha Franklin, Paul Simon, Mick Jagger, and Percy Sledge have in common? They all made music at FAME recording studios in Muscle Shoals. In fact, the town legitimately lays claim to dozens of musicians from nearly every genre, so FAME is something of a pilgrimage, whatever your tastes. Add the Alabama Music Hall of Fame to your visit, and you have a complete package once you have sampled the fare at 306 Barbecue and finished at The Pie Factory.

Dauphin Island

Aerial view of Dauphin Island on the Alabama Gulf Coast.

For the pure beach experience, one cannot beat Dauphin Island at the southern tip of the state and the entrance to Mobile Bay. I don’t always like sand between my toes, but when I do, I want Dauphin Island sand. The town and the island are one and the same. It is fifteen miles long and a quarter mile wide, full of houses and condos for travelers coming from inland. It is one of my favorite getaways on the entire Gulf Coast. The rhythmic surf and turquoise waters keep you enchanted, so bring your supplies with you. The only way on or off Dauphin Island is by ferry to the west, or a long road to the east.

Sunset view in Fairhope, Alabama.

Named by its first residents because they thought they had found a paradise on earth, Fairhope has become home to eccentrics, artists, hippies, a thriving art scene, and retirees looking for quiet and serenity. If that sounds like your ideal spot as well, consider a visit to this small town on the eastern shore of Mobile Bay. Spend the morning in the Montrose Historic District, take in lunch at Gambino’s Italian Grill, and use the afternoon to explore Battles Wharf before lounging the evening at the Grand Hotel Golf Resort and Spa. On second thought, Fairhope will need a whole weekend.

Clock tower atop White Hall on the campus of Tuskegee University in Tuskegee, Alabama. Editorial credit: Mccallk69 / Shutterstock.com

The most famous attractions of Tuskegee are those that connect to the past. Visit the Tuskegee Institute National Historic Site on the campus of Tuskegee University, one of the premier institutions of higher learning for African Americans. The school was founded by Booker T. Washington in 1881 and has played a vital role not only in the history of the South but also in the nation. From 1932 to 1972, Tuskegee was the site of the infamous Tuskegee Syphilis Study, which saw hundreds of black men treated for the disease but never told they had it. Moton Field houses the Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site, home to the nation’s first all-African American fighter squadron.

Discover Alabama's Hidden Highlights

Alabama boasts an abundance of inviting small towns, which is much of the reason so many people born and raised in the state stay and raise their own families here and why so many tourists pay a visit. From Muscle Shoals in the northwest corner of the state to Gulf Shores at the southern tip, Alabama’s small towns give visitors plenty from which to choose. Good food, historical connections, and natural beauty are just the beginning of a trip to Alabama.

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Best alabama beaches.

Characterized by the warm waters of the Gulf and sugar-white sands, Alabama's beaches and adjacent small towns are a treat for vacationers on the hunt for a laid-back, family-friendly getaway. To help you determine which stretches of shoreline are worth visiting, U.S. News considered scenic beauty, available amenities and the opinions of experts and travelers to decide the best Alabama beaches. Have a favorite? Vote below to have a say in next year's list.

Gulf Shores

Dauphin island, orange beach, robinson island, gulf state park, fort morgan, point clear.

Home to 32 miles of white sand beaches, Gulf Shores is one of Alabama's most popular coastal getaways thanks to the Gulf of Mexico's balmy waters. There are a variety of beach access points, but the one at Gulf Place is particularly popular thanks to its ample facilities, which include picnic pavilions, volleyball nets and restrooms. Off of the sand, there are plenty of activities to entertain the whole family, including the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park (50 miles northwest) and Waterville USA – a 20-acre water park. While in town, indulge in plenty of fresh seafood, especially oysters – the area's specialty.

Dubbed the "Sunset Capital of Alabama," 14-mile-long Dauphin Island sits at the southernmost point of the state. For some of the best views of the Gulf, head to East End Beach. Or, spend the day shelling at West End Beach. Along with its pristine beaches, Dauphin Island is home to a variety of family-friendly attractions, including historic Fort Gaines, the Dauphin Island Sea Lab and the Audubon Bird Sanctuary. You'll fall in love with the small-town feel here while browsing the boutique shops or chowing down on locally caught seafood at the island's laid-back restaurants.

This stretch of Alabama coastline beckons to beachgoers with its alabaster sands and ample outdoor pursuits. Alabama Point East Beach is popular amongst travelers for its beautiful blue-green water, sand dunes and picnic areas. You could easily spend all day lounging on the beach, but if you start to get restless, arrange a tee time at one of the area's golf courses, rent a bike or kayak in Wolf Bay. Meanwhile, families will find plenty to enjoy at Adventure Island, which boasts an arcade and a variety of kid-friendly rides. In the evening, head to The Wharf or Flora-Bama Lounge for live entertainment.

A popular daytrip option for boaters in the Orange Beach area, Robinson Island is a bird sanctuary and an important nesting area for wading herons and terns. You can only reach the island by kayak, stand-up paddleboard or boat, and once you've arrived there isn't much to do beyond lounging on the beach and enjoying the undeveloped land – but that serenity is exactly what makes it so popular with visitors. Since there are no facilities or amenities on the island, you'll have to bring everything you need and take it with you when you leave.

Gulf State Park is home to nine ecosystems, 2 miles of beaches and plenty of paddling and swimming opportunities in 900-acre Lake Shelby. Stretch your legs along the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail, a 28-mile trail system featuring prime wildlife spotting, including birds, coyote, whitetail deer and alligators. There are cabins, cottages and campsites for budget-minded travelers, but those who don't want to rough it should book a room at the Hilton-affiliated Lodge at Gulf State Park. Meanwhile, relaxation-minded travelers should set up camp for the day at the Beach Pavilion or Cotton Bayou Beach, which both offer showers, parking and restrooms.

Sitting roughly 20 miles west of Gulf Shores, Fort Morgan is a National Historic Landmark that dates back to 1834, when it was built to protect Mobile Bay. Though the site may initially only appeal to history buffs, Fort Morgan should also be on the to-do list for beach bums and bird-watchers. Designated a Globally Important Bird Area by the American Bird Conservancy, the fort and its uncrowded beaches are an important stopover for spring and fall neotropical migrating birds. For a more traditional beach experience, travelers can head to nearby West Beach, which is backed by eateries, private homes and high-rise hotels.

This small town overlooking Alabama's Mobile Bay is a quiet alternative to the state's crowded Gulf-facing beaches. A boardwalk stretches along the coast, giving travelers fantastic views of Point Clear's Historic District. For the best experience, book a room at Marriott's bayside Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa , which boasts its own private beach with cabana rentals. This beautiful property is dotted with live oak trees and is home to hundreds of bird species.  

Better known for its cafes, art galleries, souvenir stores and seafood restaurants than its beach, Fairhope draws vacationers who are on the hunt for a heavy dose of Southern charm. Unwind on North Beach Park's laid-back stretch of sand, or take advantage of the park's other offerings, which include a duck pond and several walking trails. When you're not admiring Mobile Bay from the 1,448-foot-long pier – located directly next to the beach – immerse yourself in the town's art scene by paying a visit to the Eastern Shore Art Center. Time your visit for March when the free Fairhope Arts and Crafts Festival takes over the town.

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• Anniston/Gadsden

Alabama city has one of the nation’s best small-town cultural scenes, USA Today says

• Published: Apr. 23, 2024, 8:07 a.m.

The Ave Maria Grotto in Cullman is filled with miniature artworks made of stone and concrete. Most were the lifetime work of Brother Joseph Zoettl, a Benedictine monk of St. Bernard Abbey. (AL.com file photo/Bernard Troncale)

• Mary Colurso | [email protected]

There’s plenty to do in Cullman, if you know where to look, and several cultural gems to attract visitors on a Southern road trip.

That’s the word from USA Today , which included the Alabama city on its list of “10 small towns you can’t miss for a culture-centric escape.” Cullman took the No. 3 spot in a recent Readers Choice 10Best poll , ranking the best small-town cultural scenes in the United States.

“Situated between Birmingham and Huntsville is this small town that’s full of personality,” USA Today says. “Here you’ll find one-of-a-kind attractions like the Ave Maria Grotto , a 4-acre park featuring over 100 miniature reproductions of world-famous religious structures, including St. Peter’s Basilica. Other interesting cultural attractions include the Cullman County Museum , 4D Farm and the Highway Pickers Antique Mall & Flea Market. ”

The Cullman County Museum can be found at 211 2nd Ave. Northeast in downtown Cullman. The collection is housed in a replica of the home of Col. John G. Cullmann, the founder of Cullman. (AL.com file photo/Robin Conn)

The USA Today list focuses on cities and towns with populations of fewer than 25,000 people. “What each lacks in size, it makes up for in culture: museums, art galleries, performing arts and plenty of events,” USA Today says.

Cullman fits the bill with a population estimated at about 20,000 this year, according to the website World Population Review . The city, which sits about 50 miles north of Birmingham, is “fueled by its quaint heritage and indelible Southern charm,” according to the City of Cullman website .

Cullman was ranked behind Alamosa, Colorado , a scenic town that took the No. 1 spot on USA Today’s list, and De Smet, South Dakota , which came in at No. 2. (De Smet is famed for its ties to Laura Ingalls Wilder, author of the “Little House on the Prairie” book series.)

However, Cullman ranked higher than cities such as Ruidoso, New Mexico; Marquette, Michigan; Staunton, Virginia; Corning, New York; Lenox, Massachusetts; Mariposa, California; and Bisbee, Arizona. ( See the full USA Today list here. )

Cullman’s Parks & Recreation office touts annual events such as Rock the South , Cullman Oktoberfest and Cullman Christkindlmarkt, if you’re planning a visit. And The Crazy Tourist website points to attractions such as Sportsman Lake Park, Clarkson Covered Bridge, St. Bernard Abbey and Goat Island Brewing.

The Clarkson Covered Bridge in Cullman County is one of the longest existing covered bridges in the country. It's second-longest existing covered bridge in Alabama. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. (AL.com file photo/Tamika Moore)

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The best county to live in in Alabama in 2024, according to data—plus, see the runners-up

Posted: April 22, 2024 | Last updated: April 22, 2024

Best counties to live in Alabama

More counties in the United States experienced population growth in the last year, according to the latest Census data , even as pandemic-related moving trends begin to normalize.

Counties in the South continued to experience growth, particularly in Florida, where 96% of its 67 counties gained new residents. Polk County, Florida, a suburb of Orlando, added the most, with 26,000 people moving there in 2023.

Meanwhile, counties in the Midwest and Northeast continued to lose population, but at slower rates than the year before. Some of the biggest losses were in counties home to large cities, including Cook County, Illinois (home of Chicago) and the boroughs of Brooklyn and Queens in New York.

Many counties are experiencing growth due to their job opportunities, education, or relatively affordable housing costs. Others are favored for their historic or well-designed downtowns or access to cultural opportunities.

Stacker compiled a list of the best counties to live in Alabama using rankings from Niche . Niche ranks counties by various factors including public schools, educational attainment, cost of living, and housing.

Keep reading to see if your county made the list.

#30. Russell County, Alabama

- Overall Rank: 1,353 - Population: 58,849 - Median household income: $47,420 - Median home value: $141,900 (61% own) - Median rent: $908 (39% rent) - Top public schools: Sherwood Elementary School (grade A minus), Central High School (grade B), Mt. Olive Elementary School (grade B) - Top private schools: Phenix Christian School (grade unavailable), Teen University (grade unavailable), Mother Mary School (grade unavailable) - Top places: Phenix City (grade B), Ladonia (grade B minus), Hurtsboro (grade B minus)

#29. Talladega County, Alabama

- Overall Rank: 1,249 - Population: 81,105 - Median household income: $52,457 - Median home value: $131,900 (72% own) - Median rent: $750 (28% rent) - Top public schools: Oxford Middle School (grade A minus), Fayetteville High School (grade B+), Munford Elementary School (grade B) - Top private schools: First United Methodist Kindergarten & Daycare (grade unavailable), Knollwood Christian School (grade unavailable), Hope Academy (grade unavailable) - Top places: Oak Grove (grade B), Sylacauga (grade B minus), Childersburg (grade B minus)

#28. Washington County, Alabama

- Overall Rank: 1,149 - Population: 15,434 - Median household income: $51,184 - Median home value: $138,100 (88% own) - Median rent: $698 (12% rent) - Top public schools: Millry High School (grade B+), Chatom Elementary School (grade B), Fruitdale High School (grade B) - Top private schools: - Top places: Leroy (grade A minus), McIntosh (grade A minus), Chatom (grade B+)

#27. Colbert County, Alabama

- Overall Rank: 1,105 - Population: 57,270 - Median household income: $56,149 - Median home value: $148,500 (71% own) - Median rent: $810 (29% rent) - Top public schools: McBride Elementary School (grade A), Muscle Shoals Middle School (grade A), Muscle Shoals High School (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Covenant Christian School (grade B+) - Top places: Muscle Shoals (grade A), Tuscumbia (grade B+), Sheffield (grade B)

#26. DeKalb County, Alabama

- Overall Rank: 1,095 - Population: 71,680 - Median household income: $47,920 - Median home value: $129,000 (74% own) - Median rent: $684 (26% rent) - Top public schools: Plainview School (grade A minus), Sylvania School (grade A minus), Fyffe High School (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Cornerstone Christian Academy (grade C minus), Beth Haven Christian Academy (grade unavailable) - Top places: Fort Payne (grade B), Rainsville (grade B+), Sylvania (grade B+)

#25. Tallapoosa County, Alabama

- Overall Rank: 1,074 - Population: 41,251 - Median household income: $53,282 - Median home value: $127,100 (75% own) - Median rent: $701 (25% rent) - Top public schools: Horseshoe Bend High School (grade B), William L. Radney Elementary School (grade B), Reeltown Elementary School (grade B) - Top private schools: Southern Preparatory Academy (grade A) - Top places: Alexander City (grade B), Tallassee (grade B minus), Daviston (grade B+)

#24. Etowah County, Alabama

- Overall Rank: 1,047 - Population: 103,348 - Median household income: $52,177 - Median home value: $148,400 (73% own) - Median rent: $779 (27% rent) - Top public schools: Eura Brown Elementary School (grade A minus), John S. Jones Elementary School (grade B+), Whitesboro Elementary School (grade B+) - Top private schools: Westbrook Christian School (grade B), Coosa Christian School (grade C), St. James Catholic School (grade unavailable) - Top places: Rainbow City (grade B+), Glencoe (grade B+), Southside (grade B)

#23. Montgomery County, Alabama

- Overall Rank: 956 - Population: 228,132 - Median household income: $56,707 - Median home value: $151,300 (57% own) - Median rent: $1,028 (43% rent) - Top public schools: Loveless Academic Magnet Program High School (grade A+), Brewbaker Tech Magnet High School (grade A), Pike Road Junior High School (grade A minus) - Top private schools: The Montgomery Academy (grade A+), Saint James School (grade A+), Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School (grade A) - Top places: Pike Road (grade A minus), Montgomery (grade B minus)

#22. Covington County, Alabama

- Overall Rank: 758 - Population: 37,542 - Median household income: $48,772 - Median home value: $124,300 (75% own) - Median rent: $701 (25% rent) - Top public schools: South Highlands Elementary School (grade A minus), Andalusia High School (grade A minus), Straughn Middle School (grade A minus) - Top private schools: - Top places: Andalusia (grade B+), Opp (grade B), Carolina (grade B+)

#21. Marshall County, Alabama

- Overall Rank: 713 - Population: 97,923 - Median household income: $58,272 - Median home value: $165,600 (75% own) - Median rent: $746 (25% rent) - Top public schools: Arab Elementary School (grade A), Arab Junior High School (grade A minus), Brindlee Mountain Primary School (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Marshall Christian Academy (grade C+), Grace Classical Christian Academy (grade unavailable) - Top places: Guntersville (grade B+), Albertville (grade B+), Arab (grade B)

#20. Mobile County, Alabama

- Overall Rank: 702 - Population: 413,878 - Median household income: $55,352 - Median home value: $164,600 (63% own) - Median rent: $973 (37% rent) - Top public schools: Alabama School of Mathematics and Science (grade A+), Saraland Elementary School (grade A), Saraland Middle/Nelson Adams (grade A) - Top private schools: St. Paul's Episcopal School (grade A), UMS-Wright Preparatory School (grade A), McGill-Toolen Catholic High School (grade A) - Top places: Satsuma (grade A minus), Saraland (grade B+), Mobile (grade B)

#19. Marengo County, Alabama

- Overall Rank: 648 - Population: 19,180 - Median household income: $42,975 - Median home value: $98,600 (68% own) - Median rent: $702 (32% rent) - Top public schools: Sweet Water High School (grade A), Demopolis High School (grade B+), U.S. Jones Elementary School (grade B+) - Top private schools: - Top places: Demopolis (grade B+), Sweet Water (grade B+), Thomaston (grade B)

#18. Morgan County, Alabama

- Overall Rank: 634 - Population: 123,102 - Median household income: $61,588 - Median home value: $174,800 (73% own) - Median rent: $791 (27% rent) - Top public schools: Barkley Bridge Elementary School (grade A), Hartselle Intermediate School (grade A), Hartselle High School (grade A) - Top private schools: Decatur Heritage Christian Academy (grade A minus), Cornerstone Christian School (grade B), Bethel Baptist School (grade unavailable) - Top places: Hartselle (grade A), Priceville (grade A minus), Decatur (grade B+)

#17. Crenshaw County, Alabama

- Overall Rank: 600 - Population: 13,205 - Median household income: $48,557 - Median home value: $100,400 (75% own) - Median rent: $595 (25% rent) - Top public schools: Brantley High School (grade B+), Highland Home High School (grade B+), Luverne High School (grade B minus) - Top private schools: Crenshaw Christian Academy (grade C+) - Top places: Luverne (grade A minus), Brantley (grade B), Dozier (grade B minus)

#16. Henry County, Alabama

- Overall Rank: 596 - Population: 17,282 - Median household income: $58,395 - Median home value: $132,400 (82% own) - Median rent: $678 (18% rent) - Top public schools: Headland Elementary School (grade B+), Headland Middle School (grade B), Abbeville High School (grade B) - Top private schools: Abbeville Christian Academy (grade B minus) - Top places: Headland (grade A), Abbeville (grade B), Newville (grade B minus)

#15. Coffee County, Alabama

- Overall Rank: 572 - Population: 53,559 - Median household income: $62,199 - Median home value: $162,200 (69% own) - Median rent: $921 (31% rent) - Top public schools: Dauphin Junior High School (grade A), Enterprise High School (grade A), Hillcrest Elementary School (grade A) - Top private schools: Wiregrass Christian Academy (grade unavailable) - Top places: Enterprise (grade A minus), New Brockton (grade B+), Elba (grade B)

#14. Dale County, Alabama

- Overall Rank: 539 - Population: 49,455 - Median household income: $52,813 - Median home value: $123,800 (60% own) - Median rent: $829 (40% rent) - Top public schools: George W. Long High School (grade A), Ariton School (grade A minus), Newton Elementary School (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Harvest Christian School (grade B+), Fort Rucker Child Development Center (grade unavailable) - Top places: Newton (grade B), Daleville (grade B), Ozark (grade B)

#13. Jefferson County, Alabama

- Overall Rank: 455 - Population: 672,265 - Median household income: $63,595 - Median home value: $208,900 (64% own) - Median rent: $1,086 (36% rent) - Top public schools: Alabama School of Fine Arts (grade A+), Homewood High School (grade A+), Mt. Brook High School (grade A+) - Top private schools: The Altamont School (grade A+), John Carroll Catholic High School (grade A), Mountain View Baptist School (grade A) - Top places: Homewood (grade A+), Hoover (grade A+), Vestavia Hills (grade A+)

#12. Calhoun County, Alabama

- Overall Rank: 446 - Population: 116,162 - Median household income: $54,339 - Median home value: $140,500 (71% own) - Median rent: $806 (29% rent) - Top public schools: Piedmont Middle School (grade A minus), De Armanville Elementary School (grade A minus), Piedmont Elementary School (grade A minus) - Top private schools: The Donoho School (grade A), Faith Christian School (grade A minus), Trinity Christian Academy (grade B) - Top places: Oxford (grade A), Weaver (grade A minus), Jacksonville (grade A minus)

#11. Houston County, Alabama

- Overall Rank: 431 - Population: 107,040 - Median household income: $55,064 - Median home value: $164,900 (65% own) - Median rent: $858 (35% rent) - Top public schools: Wicksburg High School (grade A minus), Rehobeth Elementary School (grade A minus), Rehobeth High School (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Providence Christian School (grade A+), Houston Academy (grade A), Emmanuel Christian School (grade B minus) - Top places: Taylor (grade B+), Dothan (grade B+), Rehobeth (grade B)

#10. Pike County, Alabama

- Overall Rank: 420 - Population: 32,997 - Median household income: $42,616 - Median home value: $144,500 (63% own) - Median rent: $750 (37% rent) - Top public schools: Pike County High School (grade B+), Goshen High School (grade B+), Banks School (grade B) - Top private schools: Pike Liberal Arts School (grade B+), New Life Christian Academy (grade B+), Covenant Christian School (grade unavailable) - Top places: Troy (grade B), Brundidge (grade B), Banks (grade B)

#9. Autauga County, Alabama

- Overall Rank: 417 - Population: 58,761 - Median household income: $68,315 - Median home value: $191,800 (75% own) - Median rent: $1,199 (25% rent) - Top public schools: Daniel Pratt Elementary School (grade A minus), Prattville High School (grade B+), Prattville Junior High School (grade B+) - Top private schools: Autauga Academy (grade B), Camellia Baptist Weekday Education Ministry (WEM) (grade unavailable), First Baptist Kindergarten (grade unavailable) - Top places: Prattville (grade A), Pine Level (grade B), Marbury (grade B+)

#8. Lauderdale County, Alabama

- Overall Rank: 391 - Population: 94,329 - Median household income: $56,081 - Median home value: $174,800 (68% own) - Median rent: $773 (32% rent) - Top public schools: Kilby Laboratory School (grade A), Forest Hills School (grade A), Florence High School (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Shoals Christian School (grade A minus), Mars Hill Bible School (grade B+), St. Joseph Regional Catholic School (grade unavailable) - Top places: Florence (grade A), Killen (grade B+), Rogersville (grade B+)

#7. Elmore County, Alabama

- Overall Rank: 359 - Population: 87,694 - Median household income: $73,258 - Median home value: $200,400 (77% own) - Median rent: $982 (23% rent) - Top public schools: Holtville Middle School (grade A minus), Holtville Elementary School (grade A minus), Millbrook Middle Junior High School (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Prattville Christian Academy (grade A minus), Edgewood Academy (grade B+), New Life Christian Academy (grade B) - Top places: Blue Ridge (grade A), Deatsville (grade A minus), Millbrook (grade A minus)

#6. Baldwin County, Alabama

- Overall Rank: 318 - Population: 233,420 - Median household income: $71,039 - Median home value: $266,000 (78% own) - Median rent: $1,160 (22% rent) - Top public schools: Fairhope High School (grade A), Fairhope Middle School (grade A), Spanish Fort Elementary School (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Bayside Academy (grade A), Bayshore Christian School (grade A minus), St Michael Catholic High School (grade B+) - Top places: Spanish Fort (grade A), Point Clear (grade A), Fairhope (grade A)

#5. Tuscaloosa County, Alabama

- Overall Rank: 310 - Population: 231,558 - Median household income: $61,645 - Median home value: $218,800 (62% own) - Median rent: $974 (38% rent) - Top public schools: Tuscaloosa Magnet School - Middle School (grade A minus), Tuscaloosa Magnet School - Elementary School (grade A minus), Northridge High School (grade A minus) - Top private schools: The Capitol School (grade A), Tuscaloosa Academy (grade A), Holy Spirit Catholic School (grade A minus) - Top places: Northport (grade A minus), Tuscaloosa (grade B+), Cottondale (grade B+)

#4. Limestone County, Alabama

- Overall Rank: 235 - Population: 104,199 - Median household income: $80,146 - Median home value: $229,400 (78% own) - Median rent: $861 (22% rent) - Top public schools: James Clemens High School (grade A+), Brookhill Elementary School (grade A), Julian Newman Elementary School (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Lindsay Lane Christian Academy (grade A minus), Athens Bible School (grade C) - Top places: Athens (grade A minus), Elkmont (grade B), Ardmore (grade C+)

#3. Lee County, Alabama

- Overall Rank: 52 - Population: 175,126 - Median household income: $59,288 - Median home value: $224,400 (65% own) - Median rent: $953 (35% rent) - Top public schools: Cary Woods Elementary School (grade A+), Dean Road Elementary School (grade A+), Richland Elementary School (grade A+) - Top private schools: Lee-Scott Academy (grade A), Glenwood School (grade B+), The Chanticleer Learning Center (grade unavailable) - Top places: Auburn (grade A+), Opelika (grade A), Smiths Station (grade B)

#2. Shelby County, Alabama

- Overall Rank: 26 - Population: 223,916 - Median household income: $90,618 - Median home value: $276,500 (81% own) - Median rent: $1,272 (19% rent) - Top public schools: Spain Park High School (grade A+), Robert F. Bumpus Middle School (grade A+), Greystone Elementary School (grade A) - Top private schools: Indian Springs School (grade A+), The Westminster School at Oak Mountain (grade A), Evangel Classical Christian School (grade A minus) - Top places: Meadowbrook (grade A+), Indian Springs Village (grade A+), Pelham (grade A+)

#1. Madison County, Alabama

- Overall Rank: 8 - Population: 389,781 - Median household income: $78,058 - Median home value: $242,900 (68% own) - Median rent: $1,043 (32% rent) - Top public schools: Alabama School of Cyber Technology and Engineering (grade A+), Bob Jones High School (grade A+), New Century Technology High School (grade A+) - Top private schools: Randolph School (grade A+), St. John Paul II Catholic High School (grade A+), Westminster Christian Academy (grade A) - Top places: Madison (grade A+), Huntsville (grade A), Meridianville (grade A)

This story features data reporting and writing by Elena Cox and is part of a series utilizing data automation across 50 states.

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The 15 Best Places to Propose in Alabama for a Romantic Engagement

• Emily is a freelance health, lifestyle and entertainment writer living in Charleston, South Carolina.
• Emily has worked with an array of print and digital publications, including: Women's Health, PEOPLE, Runner's World, POPSUGAR and more.
• Emily graduated with a degree in Magazine Journalism from Northwestern University.

Alabama is a gem of the South. Also known as The Yellowhammer State, its diverse scenery—from mountains to beaches–if it plays an important part of your love story, you are likely starting your search for the best places to propose in Alabama.

"Alabama is the perfect spot to pop the question—imagine proposing amidst diverse landscapes from sandy beaches to moss-covered oaks and serene lakes," says Jennie Tewell of Jennie Tewell Photography . "Plus, our weather sets the scene just right, nearly year-round. We boast some stunning sunsets that add that extra touch of magic to your special moment."

Adds Eleanor Stenner , wedding and portrait photographer in Birmingham, Alabama, "Alabama is an underappreciated state—from the beaches of Gulf Shores and state parks of Birmingham to the history of Montgomery and the appeal of Huntsville, it's a state full of charm, nature preserves, adorable historic towns and more. You really can't go wrong when choosing a place to propose."

Whether you're just starting to think about your Alabama proposal (or plan to have your wedding in Alabama ), here's everything you need to know about proposing in Alabama. (Check out the The Knot Vendor Marketplace for proposal photographers , proposal planners and proposal packages in Alabama.)

How to Decide Where to Propose in Alabama

The best time of the year to propose in alabama, the best places to propose in alabama.

Alabama has endless places to propose, so it's important that you start your search with a meaningful location.

"When selecting the location for your proposal, I first suggest that you select a location that is special to you and your partner," says Anne Canon , a wedding and portrait photographer in Fairhope, Alabama. "Once you think about that, I would then consider if you would like somewhere private, or if you are okay having a variety of people around to witness your event."

If you are stumped, don't be afraid to ask for help."For the inside scoop on the best proposal spots, reach out to local photographers," says Tewell. "They're always exploring the most picturesque settings for shoots and know all the hidden gems."

With that in mind, you should take into consideration the time of year when you plan to propose in Alabama. "If you are planning to propose along the Gulf Coast/Mobile bay, be sure to keep your eye on the forecast and be prepared for the unexpected," says Canon. "July is typically the rainiest month on the Gulf Coast."

Summers can be exceptionally hot and humid, so also keep that in mind. Canon adds that if you are planning to have the moment photographed, be sure to talk with your photographer regarding the exact location and time of day in order to have the best lighting.

Fall is a particularly pretty time, especially in Alabama's more mountainous areas. "Are you adventurous? Maybe go on a hike at Ruffner Mountain in Birmingham and pop the question right at the top," says Stenner.

Starting your search for the perfect place to have your proposal in Alabama? This comprehensive list will help you discover the best places to propose in Alabama.

Cheaha State Park, Delta

Do you and your partner love the mountains? Cheaha State Park is the best one to get the best mountain vibes in Alabama. "Cheaha is the highest mountain located in Alabama, situated in the Talladega National Forest. With many overlooks, winding trails, a lake, waterfalls, dense woods, pavilions and other facilities to use for elopements and weddings - it's hard to not love," says Dakota Chasity , an Alabama wedding and elopement photographer. "It offers some of the most beautiful views in the entire Southeast! It's also 30 minutes away from nearby towns, attractions and Airbnbs if you need accommodations or want to plan a more elaborate engagement/proposal experience."

The Grand Hotel Resort and Spa, Point Clear

Plan a weekend visit or dinner with you love at The Grand Hotel Resort and Spa , located right on the shores of Mobile Bay. "The Grand Hotel at Point Clear is absolutely breathtaking and right on the bay—it's the ideal backdrop for a sunset proposal," says Tewell.

Gulf State Park, Gulf Shores

Plan a hiking or camping trip together at Gulf State Park , enjoying the natural beauty of Lake Shelby or biking or walking the miles of trails. "At Gulf State Park in Gulf Shores, you can choose between bay and gulf views," says Tewell. "It's spacious enough to find a secluded spot for some privacy."

Magnolia Springs, Magnolia Springs

Looking to propose under the lushest mossy oak trees? Make your way to Magnolia Springs for some of the best. "Don't miss Magnolia Springs, where roads are beautifully shaded by mossy oaks," says Tewell.

Huntsville Botanical Garden, Huntsville

One of the most romantic places to propose in Alabama is the Huntsville Botanical Gardens . "With tiny vignettes everywhere and blossoming flowers, the Huntsville Botanical Gardens is 118 acres worth of interactive, relaxing and gorgeous gardens," says Stenner.

Crest Road, Birmingham

Crest Road in the English Village of Birmingham is a less well-known location that oozes romance and gorgeous scenery. "Crest Road in English Village, Birmingham.has the most magnificent overlook of the 'Magic City' (as they call it) on a road lined with English-inspired mansions," says Stenner. "It gets the most impeccable sunsets, and every summer the city skyline is masked by green trees that crest the hill."

The Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach, Orange Beach

Combine your love for the art and the water with a proposal at The Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach . "The Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach is a local art gallery operated by the City of Orange Beach located along Wolf Bay," says Canon. "The main building is designed to look like a stunning two story Southern Home with a large wrap around porch. To the side of the main building are several cottages painted in soft coastal colors. The front lawn has large oak trees. Once you make your way around to the back of the property you are treated to a beautiful lawn with more oak trees, a boardwalk along the water and a newly renovated pier over the water."

The Birmingham Botanical Gardens, Birmingham

This serene escape within Birmingham is a quiet and romantic place to get down on one knee. "There are so many special places within the Birmingham Botanical Gardens that would make for the perfect proposal location, with 26 different gardens on site," says Canon. "From the Japanese garden, to the conservatory, to the formal lawn, the possibilities are endless."

Avondale Brewing Company, Birmingham

Grab a meal or a great beer at Avondale Brewing Company . Catch a live show as well. It's a great place to propose Downtown Birmingham, and is a favorite of Chasity's.

Noccalula Falls Park, Gadsden

Propose under the waterfalls of Noccalula Falls Park . It's bound to be an incredibly romantic setting that the two of you will always remember. "Noccalula Falls is a well-known tourist stop, but a lot of people never make it out to the trails and only see the falls from the top," says Chasity. "The falls are incredible, surrounded by dense woods and rock walls. Even if you proposed at the top of the falls, you could explore and adventure at the base after with a picnic, some bubbly and watch the sun go down."

The Lyric Theatre, Birmingham

Built in 1914, this historic theater downtown is a stunning location for a proposal, says Chasity. Pop the question after taking in a symphony concert or one of many live shows hosted there.

Alabama Theatre, Birmingham

Another exquisite theater to propose at is the Alabama Theatre in Downtown Birmingham, says Chasity. This movie theater was built in 1927, and has stunning interiors in rich fabrics and colors. Pop the question after watching one of your favorite movies together.

Oak Hollow Farm, Fairhope

Spend a day exploring the 300 acres of Oak Hollow Farm . Outdoor lovers can try out skeet shooting or pheasant hunting before you propose.

NorthRiver Yacht Club, Tuscaloosa

Take a boat out on the water together for a sunset cruise from the NorthRiver Yacht Club . It's the perfect location to celebrate your proposal together on Lake Tuscaloosa with friends and family.

Southern Museum of Flight, Birmingham

With over 100 historic aircrafts to explore, the Southern Museum of Flight is a unique place to propose to your love. Even if you don't love to fly, it's the perfect place for your love story to "take off".