3 tourist attractions in alabama

31 Best & Fun Things To Do In Alabama: Top Destinations for Tourists

As you pack your bags and get ready to explore Alabama, there’s no shortage of exciting activities for you to enjoy.

From thrilling outdoor adventures to captivating cultural experiences, Alabama has something to suit every taste.

Whether you’re looking to satisfy your culinary cravings or immerse yourself in history, the state offers a wealth of options.

Lace up your hiking boots for a trek into the great outdoors, or satisfy your sweet tooth with some of the region’s famous barbeque.

Whatever your interests, the possibilities are endless. So grab your travel companions and get ready to discover the 31 best and fun things to do in Alabama.

Best & Fun Things To Do In Alabama

Alabama is a state with plenty to offer for travelers and locals alike. Here are some of the best and most fun things to do in Alabama.

U.S. Space & Rocket Center

The U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville is just one of the many amazing destinations that make Alabama a great place to visit.

For nature lovers, Alabama’s Gulf Coast boasts stunning white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and plenty of opportunities for fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities.

The Gulf State Park is a must-visit destination, with miles of hiking and biking trails, a fishing pier, and a stunning beachfront pavilion.

For those interested in history and culture, Alabama has plenty to offer as well. The state’s rich civil rights history can be explored at sites such as the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute and the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma.

Additionally, the city of Montgomery is home to numerous historic landmarks, including the Alabama State Capitol and the Rosa Parks Museum.

Whether you’re interested in science, nature, history, or culture, Alabama has something for everyone, making it a truly unforgettable destination.

Cathedral Caverns State Park

Located in northeastern Alabama, Cathedral Caverns State Park is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

The highlight of the park is the Cathedral Cavern, one of the largest cave systems in the state, which offers visitors an awe-inspiring underground experience.

Guided tours of the cave take visitors through a series of massive chambers filled with stunning formations such as stalagmites, stalactites, and flowstones.

The tour also includes a visit to the famous “Goliath” rock formation, which is 45 feet tall and 243 feet in circumference.

Visitors can also explore the park’s hiking trails, picnic areas, and campground, making it a great place for a day trip or a weekend getaway.

Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

Birmingham Civil Rights Institute is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in learning about the Civil Rights Movement in the United States.

The institute is located in the heart of Birmingham, Alabama, which was a center of civil rights activism in the 1950s and 1960s.

The exhibits at the institute tell the story of the struggle for civil rights through the eyes of the people who lived it.

Visitors can expect to see artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that bring the history of the Civil Rights Movement to life.

Aside from the historical significance of the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, the museum is also a fun and engaging place to visit.

The interactive exhibits make it easy for visitors of all ages to learn about the Civil Rights Movement in a hands-on way.

The institute offers educational programs and tours for students and adults, which provide a deeper understanding of the history and culture of the Civil Rights Movement.

Beyond the exhibits, the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute is also home to the Odessa Woolfolk Gallery, which showcases the work of contemporary African American artists.

The gallery features rotating exhibits that highlight the creativity and innovation of African American artists in a variety of mediums, from painting to sculpture to photography.

Battleship Memorial Park

One such attraction that is definitely worth checking out is the Battleship Memorial Park, located in the charming city of Mobile.

This park is a must-visit destination for history buffs, military enthusiasts, and anyone looking for an entertaining and educational day out.

The centerpiece of the Battleship Memorial Park is, of course, the USS Alabama Battleship, a majestic vessel that has been preserved and transformed into a fascinating museum.

Visitors can explore the decks and compartments of the ship, learning about its rich history and the important role it played in numerous conflicts.

In addition to the battleship itself, the park also features a range of other military exhibits, including aircraft, tanks, and artillery pieces, all of which provide a fascinating glimpse into America’s military past.

But the Battleship Memorial Park isn’t just about history and education. It’s also a fun and engaging destination that offers a variety of activities and experiences for visitors of all ages.

For example, the park features a state-of-the-art flight simulator that lets visitors experience what it’s like to fly a fighter jet, as well as a 3D theater that screens thrilling films about military history.

There’s also a picnic area where visitors can relax and enjoy a meal, as well as a gift shop where they can pick up souvenirs and memorabilia.

Natchez Trace Parkway

As you embark on your road trip down the Natchez Trace Parkway, you will find that Alabama offers a wealth of exciting and unique experiences.

From peaceful vistas and picturesque scenery, to fascinating historical sites and vibrant cultural attractions, Alabama has something for everyone.

As you meander down the Natchez Trace Parkway, you’ll come across a range of interesting stops along the way such as the Rock House in Florence, where you can explore a two-story dwelling built into a limestone cliff, and the Bankhead Tunnel in Jasper, which was built in 1872 to span the Black Warrior River.

You’ll also come across a number of Civil War-related sites such as Fort Payne and the Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site.

These destinations provide insight into a defining period in American history, giving visitors an unforgettable experience that is both educational and inspiring.

Finally, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the city of Natchez itself, located at the southern end of the Parkway.

Here you’ll find an array of interesting attractions such as the Magnolia Hall Plantation, which offers a peek into life in antebellum Alabama, and William Johnson House, a historic home owned by a former slave.

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach

One of Alabama’s most popular attractions is its stunning coastline, which is home to a number of gorgeous beaches that offer the perfect escape from city life.

A great place to start your beach adventure is Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, two small towns on the Gulf Coast that are known for their white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters.

The beaches here offer plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained, from swimming and parasailing to fishing and kayaking.

For an even more exciting experience, head out on a dolphin cruise or a sunset tour and observe these majestic creatures up close.

When you’re done with your beach day, head into town for some delicious seafood at one of the many restaurants along the waterfront.

Be sure to save some time for a visit to the Orange Beach Art Center, which showcases works by local and regional artists.

Whether you’re looking for an exciting adventure or simply want to relax and take in the beauty of the Gulf Coast, there’s something here for everyone.

Cheaha State Park

If you’re looking for a serene and natural escape, Cheaha State Park is the perfect destination.

Located in northeast Alabama, this 2,799-acre park offers breathtaking views of the Talladega National Forest.

Here visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and camping.

One of the highlights at Cheaha State Park is Bald Rock, a natural rock outcropping that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lakes.

Or take a stroll through the park’s nature trails and observe some of the local wildlife such as deer, foxes, and wild turkeys.

At night, visitors can take in the beauty of the night sky from the observation deck atop Bald Rock.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful getaway or an exciting adventure, Cheaha State Park is the perfect place to experience all that Alabama has to offer.

Little River Canyon National Preserve

The Little River Canyon National Preserve is a 15,288-acre nature reserve located in northeast Alabama.

This scenic area is home to the Little River, one of the longest free-flowing rivers in the country.

Here visitors can enjoy a range of activities such as rafting, kayaking, and fishing.

The preserve also offers plenty of hiking and biking trails, as well as scenic overlooks where you can take in the breathtaking views of the canyon below.

In addition to its natural beauty, the Little River Canyon National Preserve is also home to an array of wildlife, including deer, wild turkey, quail, and black bear.

Birders will be delighted by the variety of species that can be found here, including the rare red-shouldered hawk.

Whether you’re looking for an outdoor adventure or a serene escape, Little River Canyon National Preserve is sure to delight.

These are just a few of the many amazing attractions Alabama has to offer.

From stunning beaches to majestic mountain ranges, this beautiful state has something for everyone to enjoy.

Huntsville Botanical Garden

Another must-see destination in Alabama is the Huntsville Botanical Garden.

Located in north Alabama, this garden is home to more than 12,000 plants and features some of the most beautiful gardens in the state.

Visitors can explore a variety of themed gardens such as the Japanese Garden, Butterfly Garden, and Children’s Garden.

The Huntsville Botanical Garden is also home to a variety of events throughout the year, such as concerts, movie nights, and children’s activities. Additionally, the garden offers educational programs for both adults and children that focus on topics such as gardening and nature conservation. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or an exciting adventure, the Huntsville Botanical Garden has something for everyone.

So, come explore the natural beauty and exciting attractions Alabama has to offer. From relaxing beaches to thrilling outdoor adventures, this beautiful state offers something for everyone to enjoy. Take the time to experience all that Alabama has to offer – you won’t be disappointed.

Take a hike along the Walls of Jericho Trail

Located in northeast Alabama, the Walls of Jericho Trail is an 8-mile loop that takes hikers through some of the most beautiful terrain in the state. This trail winds through lush forests and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Along the way, you’ll pass by a variety of wildlife such as deer, wild turkey, foxes, and even black bear.

At the heart of this trail is the dramatic Walls of Jericho, a 300-foot sheer rock face that towers over the forest. Hikers will be rewarded with stunning views of this natural formation as well as numerous waterfalls and cascades. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or an exciting adventure, the Walls of Jericho Trail is sure to delight.

Walk through the Historic Mobile Bay and Fort Gaines

Experience a piece of Alabama history at the Historic Mobile Bay and Fort Gaines. Located along the Gulf Coast, this historic site is home to some of the oldest military forts in the state. Visitors can explore these forts and learn about their fascinating history.

The Historic Mobile Bay and Fort Gaines also offer stunning views of the surrounding area and the Gulf of Mexico. Take a walk along the beach and admire the pristine white sand, or take in the breathtaking views of Dauphin Island from one of the forts’ observation decks.

Its the perfect place to experience a bit of history and admire the beauty of Alabama’s Gulf Coast.

Visit the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum in Leeds

If you’re a fan of cars, then the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum in Leeds is the perfect place to visit.

Featuring over 1,400 vintage and modern racecars, this museum offers one of the largest collections in the world. Cars from all eras are displayed here, including some of the earliest models ever created.

In addition to its impressive collection, the museum also offers a variety of specialty shops and events throughout the year. Visitors can take part in racing simulators or watch videos about rare cars from around the world.

Take a tour of the Ave Maria Grotto in Cullman

If you’re looking for a unique and fascinating attraction in Alabama, a tour of the Ave Maria Grotto in Cullman is a must-see. Located on the grounds of St. Bernard Abbey, this miniature village is comprised of over 125 miniature reproductions of famous religious structures from around the world. Created by Brother Joseph Zoettl, a Benedictine monk who lived at the abbey for over 50 years, the grotto features intricate details and stunning craftsmanship that will leave visitors in awe.

As you walk through the Ave Maria Grotto, you’ll see miniature replicas of famous buildings like the Eiffel Tower, the Coliseum in Rome, and even the Notre Dame Cathedral. Each structure is made from a variety of materials, including stones, shells, and even discarded glass bottles, and many of them feature tiny figures and intricate details that make them truly remarkable. Visitors can also see Brother Joseph’s original workshop, where he spent countless hours creating his miniature masterpieces.

In addition to the Ave Maria Grotto, there are plenty of other fun things to do in Cullman and the surrounding area. Visitors can explore the nearby Cullman County Museum, which features exhibits on local history and culture, or take a hike in the nearby William B. Bankhead National Forest. The area is also home to several wineries, including the popular St. Michael’s Winery, where visitors can enjoy tastings and tours of the vineyards.

Get spooked on a ghost tour in Montgomery

Alabama is a state rich in history, culture, and folklore. One of the best ways to experience its spooky side is by taking a ghost tour in Montgomery.

There are several companies that offer ghost tours, each with their own unique take on the city’s haunted history. These tours are a fun and entertaining way to learn about the city’s past while getting a good scare.

On a typical ghost tour in Montgomery, you’ll visit some of the city’s most haunted locations. These might include historic buildings, cemeteries, and even street corners with a dark past.

You’ll hear stories about the ghosts and spirits that are said to haunt these places, and you might even get to experience some paranormal activity yourself. Some tours even use ghost-hunting equipment, adding to the thrill of the experience.

But ghost tours aren’t just about getting scared. They’re also a great way to learn about Montgomery’s rich history.

Many of the locations visited on these tours have an important place in the city’s past, and the stories told on the tour provide a unique perspective on the city’s history.

Alabama Theatre in Birmingham

The Alabama Theatre is one of the most iconic landmarks in Birmingham, Alabama, and is a must-visit for anyone looking for the best and most fun things to do in the state.

Built in 1927, the Alabama Theatre is a stunning example of classical architecture and is known for its beautiful and ornate decor, including marble floors, chandeliers, and intricate plasterwork.

One of the best things to do at the Alabama Theatre is to catch a show or a movie screening. The theatre is still used for performances and events today, and it is a popular venue for both local and national acts.

Whether you are interested in seeing a classic film on the big screen or catching a live performance by your favorite artist, the Alabama Theatre is a great place to do it.

In addition to its entertainment offerings, the Alabama Theatre also offers tours of the building. These tours are a great way to learn more about the history and architecture of the theatre, and they offer visitors the opportunity to explore areas of the building that are not open to the public during regular events.

Go kayaking down the Coosa River

Kayaking down the Coosa River is one of the best and most fun things to do in Alabama. The river flows through several towns and cities, providing a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Alabama while also experiencing the local culture.

The Coosa River is known for its scenic views, clear waters, and diverse wildlife, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Kayaking down the Coosa River is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and connect with nature. The river offers a peaceful and serene setting, allowing you to relax and unwind as you paddle down the gentle currents.

Whether you are a seasoned kayaker or a beginner, the Coosa River has something to offer for everyone. You can choose from a variety of routes and distances, depending on your skill level and interests.

As you paddle down the Coosa River, you will pass through several towns and cities, each with its own unique charm and character. From the historic city of Montgomery to the quaint town of Wetumpka, there is no shortage of things to see and do along the way.

You can stop off at local restaurants and cafes to sample the delicious Southern cuisine, or explore the local museums and cultural attractions.

Check out the Dismals Canyon Natural Preserve

If you’re looking for picturesque natural beauty, the Dismals Canyon Natural Preserve in Alabama is a must-see destination. Nestled within the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, this stunning gorge is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, making it a biodiversity hotspot that is sure to impress nature lovers of all kinds.

One of the unique features that sets Dismals Canyon apart from other natural preserves in the region is the presence of bioluminescent insects known as “dismalites.” These tiny creatures emit a blue-green glow that illuminates the canyon walls at night, creating a magical and otherworldly atmosphere that is sure to leave visitors in awe.

Of course, there is plenty to do during the day as well. The park boasts four hiking trails of varying difficulty levels, ranging from a short and easy 0.75-mile loop to the more strenuous 1.5-mile boulder scramble known as “The Chasm.” Along the way, hikers will encounter stunning rock formations, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks that offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

For those who prefer to explore the canyon by water, kayaking and canoeing are also popular activities in the park. The 1.5-mile paddle down Bear Creek is a peaceful and leisurely way to take in the sights and sounds of the gorge, with the option to stop and explore various swimming holes and waterfalls along the way.

Go on a safari at the Alabama Safari Park in Hope Hull

The Alabama Safari Park in Hope Hull is a must-see destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Featuring a variety of animals, including zebras, giraffes, and rhinos, the park offers visitors the chance to get up close and personal with some of the most majestic creatures on Earth.

The safari features several different attractions and activities. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the park in their own car, or they can opt for a guided safari truck ride that gives them an intimate look at the animals, including opportunities to feed them directly from the vehicle.

In addition to the open-air safari, visitors can explore other areas of the park, including a petting zoo, reptile house, and bird aviary. The petting zoo allows visitors to interact with a variety of farm animals, while the reptile house showcases a diverse range of snakes, lizards, and other reptiles.

The bird aviary is home to a colorful array of exotic birds, including parrots and toucans.

One of the highlights of the Alabama Safari Park is the giraffe feeding experience, where visitors can hand-feed these gentle giants and even get a kiss from them. The park also offers behind-the-scenes tours, where visitors can learn more about the animals and their care from experienced guides.

Take a trip to the Cheaha Mountain Bald

Cheaha Mountain Bald is one of the most stunning and awe-inspiring natural attractions in Alabama. Located within the Cheaha State Park, this mountain peak offers visitors a range of exciting and fun-filled activities to engage in. Here are some of the best and fun things to do when you take a trip to the Cheaha Mountain Bald in Alabama.

Hiking is one of the top activities to indulge in when visiting Cheaha Mountain Bald. With numerous trails to choose from, visitors can explore the scenic beauty of the mountain and its surroundings. The trails range from easy to moderate, making it ideal for both seasoned hikers and beginners. The Pinhoti Trail is a popular one and provides hikers with stunning views of the surroundings, including the Talladega National Forest.

Another fun activity to enjoy in Cheaha Mountain Bald is camping. The state park offers a range of campsites, from rustic to full hookup sites. Visitors can enjoy the serenity of the natural surroundings, including the sound of the nearby stream and the chirping of birds. Campers can also engage in other activities such as fishing, swimming, and biking.

For those who love adventure, the Cheaha Mountain Bald offers rock climbing and rappelling opportunities. With various climbing routes available, climbers can test their skills while enjoying the breathtaking views of the surroundings. Rappelling down the mountain is an exhilarating experience that provides a unique perspective of the mountain.

Enjoy a picnic at the Oak Mountain State Park

One of the top destinations in Alabama for outdoor activities is Oak Mountain State Park, which covers over 9,000 acres of land and features a wide range of recreational activities. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or just looking for a fun day out, there’s plenty to do at Oak Mountain State Park.

One of the best things to do at Oak Mountain State Park is to enjoy a picnic with family and friends. There are several picnic areas throughout the park, with tables, grills, and plenty of space for activities. You can pack a picnic lunch and spend the day relaxing in the shade, enjoying the fresh air, and taking in the beautiful scenery. The park also has a beach area where you can swim or rent kayaks, paddleboards, and canoes for a fun water adventure.

In addition to picnicking, Oak Mountain State Park has a variety of other activities to offer. There are over 50 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy to strenuous, that wind through the park’s forests, hills, and valleys. You can also go mountain biking, horseback riding, fishing, or play a round of golf at the park’s 18-hole golf course. During the summer months, the park hosts a variety of events, including concerts, festivals, and outdoor movies.

Visit the Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park in McCalla

One of the must-visit places in Alabama is the Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park in McCalla. This park is a tribute to the state’s industrial heritage and features an array of exhibits and activities that are both educational and fun.

At the Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park, visitors can learn about Alabama’s iron industry, which was crucial to the state’s economic growth in the 19th century. The park features a museum that showcases the history of iron production in the state, as well as a reconstructed blast furnace that gives visitors a glimpse of what life was like for ironworkers in the past. The park offers guided tours that provide a deeper understanding of the iron industry and its impact on Alabama.

Aside from the educational opportunities, the Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park also offers a range of recreational activities that make for a fun day out. The park features hiking trails that wind through the picturesque forests and along the banks of the Cahaba River.

Visitors can also enjoy fishing in the river or swimming in one of the park’s natural swimming holes. For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, there are picnic areas where visitors can relax and enjoy the scenery.

Check out the exhibits at the Mobile Carnival Museum

The Mobile Carnival Museum in Mobile is a must-see for anyone interested in learning about the history of carnivals and circuses. The museum features an array of exhibits that explore the culture and customs associated with these events, as well as artifacts dating back to the early 19th century.

Visitors can stroll through the galleries to learn more about the history of carnivals and circuses, discover interesting facts about performers and attractions, and admire a variety of artifacts. The museum also features a range of interactive exhibits that give visitors a hands-on experience with the carnival culture.

The Mobile Carnival Museum is more than just an educational attraction – it’s also an entertaining spot for the whole family. The museum regularly hosts special events, such as magic shows and clown performances, which are lots of fun for kids. There are also carnival-themed games that visitors can participate in to win prizes.

The Mobile Carnival Museum is a great place to explore and enjoy the rich history of carnivals and circuses. With its wealth of interactive exhibits and entertaining activities, it is sure to be a memorable experience for the entire family.

Take a stroll through Big Spring Park in Huntsville

Big Spring Park in Huntsville is a beautiful spot to visit and explore. Located along the banks of the Tennessee River, the park features stunning views of lush green and tranquil waters. The park walking paths are lined with trees offer plenty of shade on hot summer days, making it an ideal place for a peaceful stroll or picnic.

Big Spring Park is also home to several monuments and memorials, including the Confederate Soldiers Monument, which commemorates the soldiers who fought in the Civil War.

Visitors can enjoy a range of recreational activities at Big Spring Park, such as fishing, boating, and bird watching. There are also several playgrounds for kids to explore.

The park is also host to a variety of special events throughout the year, including concerts and festivals that celebrate local culture and history.

Visit the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Rosenbaum House in Florence

As you explore the city of Florence, Alabama, be sure to check out the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Rosenbaum House. Built in 1939 for Stanley and Mildred Rosenbaum, this beautiful home is a testament to Wright’s innovative design aesthetic. The house features a striking brick façade with curved lines and large windows that let natural light flood the interior.

The interior of the house is just as impressive, with its open plan layout, built-in furniture and artwork. Visitors can take guided tours of the home to learn more about Wright’s design philosophy and admire the craftsmanship of the home.

The Rosenbaum House also serves as a museum, exhibiting artifacts from the life and work of Frank Lloyd Wright. There are also temporary exhibitions that feature the work of other architects and designers, as well as special events such as lectures, workshops and film screenings.

The Rosenbaum House is a fascinating example of Wright’s architecture and an absolute must-see for any visitor to Florence.

Explore the Gulf State Park in Gulf Shores

Gulf State Park in Gulf Shores is a stunning nature reserve that stretches along the Alabama coast. It’s home to a variety of plants and animals, including alligators, deer, osprey and bald eagles. The park has six miles of white sandy beach perfect for swimming, sunbathing or enjoying a picnic.

The park also offers a range of recreational activities, such as fishing, kayaking and hiking. Visitors can explore the many trails that wind through the park and check out one of the observation towers to get an amazing view of the Gulf Coast.

The Gulf State Park is also home to the Education Center, where visitors can learn more about the ecology and wildlife of the area. There are also special programs, such as guided nature walks and educational lectures.

For those looking to spend an entire day at the park, there are several cabins available for rent, allowing visitors to enjoy all that Gulf State Park has to offer without ever leaving its grounds.

Try some barbecue at Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q in Decatur

Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q in Decatur is an Alabama institution. Founded in 1925, this restaurant has been serving up some of the best barbecue in the state for almost a century. The menu features succulent meats that have been smoked over hickory and pecan wood, as well as sides like coleslaw, baked beans, and potato salad.

The restaurant has become renowned for its famous ‘White Sauce’ – a tangy mayonnaise-based sauce that adds an extra kick to the smoky barbecue. Visitors can also take home a bottle of the sauce to recreate delicious Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q at home.

Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q also hosts a range of special events throughout the year, such as cook-offs and BBQ classes. So if you’re looking for some delicious barbecue and a good time, there’s no better place to go than Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q in Decatur.

Take a tour of the Alabama State Capitol in Montgomery

The Alabama State Capitol in Montgomery is one of the most iconic buildings in the state. The building was designed by Greek Revival architect William Nichols and completed in 1851, making it one of the oldest capitol buildings in America. The exterior features an impressive neoclassical façade with grand Corinthian columns, while the interior showcases intricate designs and murals.

Visitors can take a guided tour of the Alabama State Capitol to learn more about the building’s history and architecture, as well as view various artifacts related to its past. The grounds also feature several monuments, including one commemorating Confederate soldiers who died during the Civil War.

For those interested in learning more about the state’s political history, the Alabama State Capitol is an absolute must-see. The building has served as a living testament to Alabama’s past and present, and its presence in Montgomery stands as a reminder of the state’s unique heritage.

Visit the Noccalula Falls Park and Campground in Gadsden

Noccalula Falls Park and Campground in Gadsden is a must-see outdoor destination. The park features a 90-foot waterfall that cascades into the Black Creek Gorge, creating an awe-inspiring view. Visitors can also explore the nearby nature trails, which lead to several other waterfalls, streams and caves.

The park also offers a range of recreational activities, such as fishing, swimming and rock-climbing. For those looking to spend the night, there are several camping sites available for rent.

The campground is equipped with all the necessary amenities, such as showers and restrooms.

Noccalula Falls Park and Campground offers an unforgettable outdoor experience – from the breathtaking views of the fall to the various recreational activities, this park is sure to capture the hearts of visitors young and old.

Explore the Dauphin Island Estuarium and Aquarium

Located on Dauphin Island in Mobile Bay, the Dauphin Island Estuarium and Aquarium offers a unique opportunity to explore the diverse marine life of Alabama’s coast. The estuarium features interactive exhibits that teach visitors about the area’s ecology, including its plants and animals. There are also touch tanks which allow visitors to get up close and personal with some of the sea’s inhabitants.

The aquarium features a wide range of fish, sharks, jellyfish and other marine creatures. Visitors can also take part in educational programs such as the ‘Coastal Conservation Academy’ which focuses on fishing regulations, conservation efforts, and sustainable seafood.

The Dauphin Island Estuarium and Aquarium is the perfect place to discover more about Alabama’s unique coastal environment.

Visit the Red Mountain Park in Birmingham

Red Mountain Park in Birmingham is a sprawling outdoor recreation area that offers something for everyone.

The park spans nearly 1,500 acres and features 18 miles of trails perfect for walking, running, or mountain biking. There are also several natural attractions such as the Red Ore Mine and Vulcan Quarry, both of which have been converted into interactive learning experiences for visitors.

The park also offers a variety of other amenities, such as picnic areas, playgrounds and an outdoor amphitheater for concerts.

Red Mountain Park is the perfect place to spend a day outdoors with family or friends – there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Enjoy a baseball game at the Montgomery Biscuits Ballpark

The Montgomery Biscuits Ballpark is home to the city’s Minor League Baseball team, the Montgomery Biscuits. Visitors can catch a game in action and enjoy all the fun of America’s favorite pastime. The ballpark offers plenty of activities for kids, including a playground and carousel rides.

The stadium also features several concession stands and other amenities, such as a VIP lounge, suites, party decks and picnic areas.

The Montgomery Biscuits Ballpark is the perfect place to enjoy a summer night at the ballpark with friends and family – there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

The state of Alabama is full of adventures, sights, and sounds that are sure to make your visit memorable.

Whether you’re here for a romantic weekend away or a family vacation, there is something for everyone in this great state.

From the beaches on the Gulf Coast to the Civil Rights landmarks in Montgomery, from the music festivals in Muscle Shoals to the museums of Birmingham, Alabama offers you a wealth of experiences that are sure to leave you absolutely enchanted.

Plan your trip to Alabama today and experience all that this great state has to offer.

What is Alabama best known for?

Alabama is best known for its beautiful beaches, historical landmarks, diverse culture and music. It’s also home to some of the best barbecue in the South.

Why is Alabama a great vacation destination?

Alabama is a great vacation destination because it offers something for everyone. It’s full of interesting history, beautiful beaches, entertainment venues, and outdoor activities suited to all types of travelers.

What are the top tourist attractions in Alabama?

The top tourist attractions in Alabama include Noccalula Falls Park and Campground, Dauphin Island Estuarium and Aquarium, Red Mountain Park in Birmingham, the Montgomery Biscuits Ballpark, and the U.S. Space & Rocket Center.

What is there to do for families in Alabama?

Alabama has plenty to offer families with kids. Popular activities include visiting the Birmingham Zoo, exploring Noccalula Falls Park and Campground, spending a day at the beach on Dauphin Island, hiking the trails at Red Mountain Park in Birmingham, or catching a baseball game at the Montgomery Biscuits Ballpark.

Is there anything worth seeing in Alabama?

Yes, Alabama has a great deal to offer visitors in terms of sights, sounds and experiences. From the beaches on the Gulf Coast to the Civil Rights landmarks in Montgomery, from music festivals in Muscle Shoals to museums of Birmingham, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

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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)

20 Best Things to Do in Alabama

Whether you’re eyeing Alabama as your family’s next destination, or just passing by on your way to another state, check out my handpicked things to do in Alabama that’s perfect for the history buff, science fans, nature lovers, bass fishing crowd and everyone in between.

You might thing the best Alabama attractions are college football (Roll Tide, War Eagle, etc.) and you wouldn’t be entirely wrong, but the state can surprise you with how much there is to see and do.

What is Alabama known for?

Alabama is known for being the only state with natural resources enough for major steel and iron production, making it the largest supplier of steel pipes and cast iron.

You can even see numerous links to the state’s industrial history from Alabama attractions like the Fallen Robot.

Alabama is a state with a well-balanced culture, history and science.

Home to rolling fields of cotton, the Space and Rocket Center, and many music legends from Nat King Cole to Aretha Franklin, authentic Southern home-style food, and notable historical places from Native American and colonial history to the eras of Civil War and Civil Rights.

When is the best time to visit Alabama?

The most ideal time to visit Alabama is from June (early summer) to September, October and November (autumn months).

Peak season is during summer (June to August), which makes all accommodation and attractions along the Gulf Coast more expensive than normal.

Although Alabama winters are mild, winter months tend to be rainy in Alabama.

You should also avoid the spring months because of tornadoes, but if that’s what you’re after, then now you know.

Top Alabama Attractions

1. u.s. space and rocket center.

1 Tranquility Base, Huntsville, Alabama 

What is it?  Ideal for families, young and old will definitely go wow with rockets, NASA’s achievements, and artifacts of the U.S. space program.

There are also multimedia presentations at the National Geographic Theater and Spacedome IMAX.

Don’t Miss: Outdoors, don’t miss out on the Shuttle Park, Cosmos Kids Area, and simulators G-Force and Space Shot Accelerator.

Admission Fee: Kids 4 and below are free, children 5 to 12 years old pay $17, and 13-year-olds and adults pay $25.

2. McWane Science Center

200 19th St N, Birmingham, AL

What is it? This center is as much as an interactive learning center as a play place for kids of all ages.

It’s a three-floor building with plenty of exhibits for older kids, and the Itty Bitty Magic City for smaller children.

Don’t Miss: Don’t miss the anti-gravity and distortion room at ScienceQuest, the Dinosaurs and Sea Monsters area, as well as the Art & Tech Gallery for those with creative hands.

Admission Fee: Kids under 2 are free. Admission fees range from $8 to $20, depending on whether you choose “Adventure Halls” only, IMAX only, or a combination of IMAX and Adventure Halls.

3. Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum

6030 Barber Motorsports Pkwy, Leeds, AL

What is it? This museum is home to 1,200+ vintage and modern motorcycles, race cars, and other vehicles with an adjacent road course.

It’s not just a place for car fans – even regular folk who love special buildings will be in awe of the museum’s contemporary, glass-enclosed setup and how everything is displayed in head-turning two-tiered platforms.

Don’t Miss: The Formula 1 cars and military bikes are definitely a must-see.

If you’re visiting in October, spending $60 for a three-day admission to the annual Barber Vintage Festival is worth it.

Admission Fee: Kids can enter for $10, while adults pay $15. Guided tours are available Fridays to Sundays with an extra fee of $30.

4. Neversink Pit

Fackler, AL 35746

What is it? It’s an impressive 162-foot open air pit that many rappelers and photographers try to capture.

You’ll find something unique on your way down to the floor, depending on when you plan this adventure.

In the winter, expect the walls covered in ice sheets. In the summer, the pit is covered with lush ferns and other fauna. Spring makes gorgeous waterfalls as the rain falls down the pit.

Don’t Miss: There’s an alternate entrance for non-rappelers: a cave leads you to the floor of this pit.

But you do need to request a permit from the SCCi .

Admission Fee: There is no charge for permits, but you cannot hike, rappel, or go caving without the permit.

5. University of Alabama

Tuscaloosa, AL

What is it? The University of Alabama isn’t just a pre-Civil War campus “where legends are made,” it is also home to many interesting Alabama attractions, including:

• 50-acre arboretum
• The Paul W. Bryant Museum (a football fan’s dream)
• The Gorgas House
• Alabama Museum of Natural History (for lovers of dinosaurs and the Ice Age)

Don’t Miss: Aside from the museums and indoor Alabama attractions, don’t miss the Woods Quad Sculpture Garden , outdoor sculptures made by UA students.

Admission Fee: If you’re interested in outdoor attractions, you only need to pay parking fee after business hours and on weekends. Otherwise, it is free on campus in a legal space.

Admissions for UA students, faculty and staff for on-campus attractions are free. If you’re a visitor, these are the entrance fees:

• The Paul W. Bryant Museum ($1 for kids and seniors, $2 for general admission)
• The Gorgas House (General admission is $2)
• Alabama Museum of Natural History  ($2 for adults, children under 5 is free)

6. Alligator Alley

19950 Co Rd 71, Summerdale, AL 

What is it? This swamp sanctuary is home to hundreds of alligators and other wildlife.

If you’re brave enough, there’s an elevated boardwalk for visitors who want to get up close, feed and pet gators.

Don’t Miss: Don’t miss live feedings at 11, 1pm and 4pm.

You do need to pay for alligator chow for $5, but it’s definitely an experience you shouldn’t miss.

Admission Fee: Kids 2 and under enter free, while kids (3-12) and seniors (65+ years-old) pay $11. General admission for adults is $13.

7. Noccalula Falls Park

1500 Noccalula Dr, Gadsden, AL

What is it? Home to Noccalula Falls, this park boasts a complete adventure of hiking, zoo petting, mini golfing, camping, and Black Creek trails.

Don’t Miss: Of course, you shouldn’t miss Noccalula Falls, but since the waterfall is dependent on rainfall to feed the cascade, non-rainy seasons may not give amazing views.

You do have other activities to keep you busy at the park, so you’re all good.

Admission Fee: One day passes for adults is $6, seniors/military/children (ages 4 to 12) is $4, and kids 3 or below go in free.

8. Cheaha Mountain

What is it? Mount Cheaha is the highest natural point in all of Alabama. It is located within Cheaha State Park, northwest of Delta.

Don’t Miss: Bring your family for some well-deserved hiking and camping here. Due to the high elevations of the area, it’s a scenic place to spend a weekend in the woods.

Admission Fee: Park entrance is $2 to $5, but accommodation and camping fees apply if you’re planning on staying beyond normal business hours.

Camping within park grounds starts at $14 to $22/night. Camping on the way to Mount Cheaha require permits plus fees for overnight camping.

9. Town of Spectre

Jackson Lake Island, Millbrook, AL

What is it? If you’re a movie buff, you’ll instantly recognize this place since this privately-owned Millbrook island is where Tim Burton’s 2003 movie “Big Fish” was filmed.

Most of the buildings built for the film were left for tourists to check out.

Don’t Miss: Those with time to spare can stay in the island overnight and camp out.

You can go boating and fishing for just $10.

Admission Fee: Admission is $3/person; $10 camping. Payment is based on the honor system with cameras monitoring guests.

 10. Crimson Tide football game

920 Paul W Bryant Dr, Tuscaloosa, AL 

What is it? The Crimson Tide is among the most storied and decorated football programs in NCAA history, so if you’re passing by Alabama, be sure to check out schedules of game day .

Don’t Miss: If you can, visit the outdoor Bryant–Denny Stadium on the campus of the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa.

Admission Fee: Fee for game day varies, but stadium tour is $10-$12/person (depending on how many joins each tour)

 11. Birmingham Brewery Tour

All around Birmingham, AL

What is it? Red Clay Tours offers a walking tour where you’ll visit three Birmingham breweries.

Note that this particular tour has partnered with several local breweries, but rotate them with each walking tour.

Don’t Miss: Make sure to take advantage of the freebie drinks. Birmingham’s craft beer crowd is making a comeback and bringing special brews back.

Admission Fee: The three-hour tour costs $60/person. It includes pick-up and drop-off from Railroad Park, and four 4-ounce samples at each of the three breweries.

12. Gip’s Place

3101 Avenue C Bessemer, AL

What is it? Gip’s Place is exactly that – it is the home of Henry Gipson (real name: Herman Gipson), who opened the doors of his home in 1952 for musicians to get together and jam.

It is an authentic juke joint through and through. 

Bands that play here are unannounced, but you’re sure to have a memorable experience, especially if you love blues.

Don’t Miss: It’s open every Saturdays, so bring your own booze and order some food at Gip’s Place or buy a t-shirt to help out a bit.

The man turns 100 in January 2020, so visit the place while he’s still there. It won’t be the same without his generosity and genuine smile.

Admission Fee: $10, or free, depending on the time you go.

Free Alabama Attractions

If you want to maximize your tour funds , here are 3 Alabama attractions that are free to visit anytime.

13. Orr Park

277 Park Dr Montevallo, Al

What is it? This 40-acre park boasts plenty of facilities, from walking trails to athletic fields, playgrounds, and several areas for picnics.

Don’t Miss: Hunt for the Tinglewood carvings, storm-damaged cedar trees carved by coal miner Mr. Tim Tingle into whimsical works of art.

These amazing creations began in early 1990s until today.

Admission Fee: Access to the park and Tinglewood carvings are free. Only tickets for sporting events require tickets.

14. Little River Canyon National Preserve

4322 Little River Canyon Pkwy, Fort Payne, AL

What is it? The Little River Canyon National Preserve is a massive area where adventurous hikers, kayakers, campers, and even just those who love nature photography can go crazy with miles and miles of natural beauty.

Don’t Miss: Don’t forget to take a lot of pictures of the 45-foot waterfall. Most trails begin at the Visitor Center, then a pair of outlooks for the waterfall.

Admission Fee: Some areas are free to visit, but other activities require passes or permits .

15. The Wharf at Orange Beach

23101 Canal Road, Orange Beach, AL

What is it? The Wharf at Orange Beach is an interesting destination on its own.

It is home to many restaurants, bars, and shopping stores, perfect for all ages.

While the modern amenities of the Wharf can be off-putting if you’re after natural Alabama attractions, you’d be glad to know that this is located on Orange Beach itself.

Don’t Miss: Don’t miss trying out Southern dishes and local seafood.

Take advantage Orange Beach’s white sand and clear coastal waters.

Winter Alabama Attractions

Alabama has an average snowfall of 2 inches per year. Snowfall is very rare in this parts of the country, but if you’re feeling a bit chilly during your winter tour, here are Alabama attractions you might like:

• Mobile’s Mardi Gras Museum – If you love Mardi Gras parades, check out the costumes, and exhibits of flamboyant floats and photographs dating back to 1886.
• Unclaimed Baggage Center – This place buys unclaimed baggage all over the country’s airports and sell it in the whimsical-looking store. You never know what treasures (or garbage) you’ll pick up.
• Tannehill Iron & Steel Museum – History buffs would love a tour down memory lane about Alabama’s iron making history.
• Ave Maria Grotto – This one isn’t indoors, but the 4-acre garden featuring the miniature city of Jerusalem is a must-visit no matter what season.
• Bamahenge – This intriguing outdoor Alabama destination is outdoors, but it’s just in a tiny piece of land. “Bamahenge” is a full-scale fiberglass Stonehenge designed and installed by  Mark Cline and his Enchanted Castle Studios.

There’s a lot to do in Alabama

Alabama tourism is alive and well.

From creating more walking tours to adventure trails, to promoting Southern food and music, many Alabama attractions now compliment bigger destinations as Barber Motorsports Museum or football season.

More and more tourists are coming in each year, since the locals discovered that creating a unique experience lures more tourists in than just basic tourist spots.

Have you visited Alabama lately?

Do you recommend new places to go, or things to see around this Southern state?

Hope you share with us below…

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25 Best Things To Do in Alabama on Vacation

From the beautiful beaches of the Gulf Coast to deep-rooted Southern culture, the “Heart of Dixie” has a lot to offer those who visit. Whether you’re chasing Talladega nights or looking for outdoor activities at state parks or something more artistic, like touring museums, charming cities, and historic sites, there’s no shortage of things to do in Alabama.

Explore what makes this state in the Deep South so special and why many come back again and again to vacation.

Table of Contents

25 Incredible Alabama Attractions and Best Things To Do

1. alabama state parks.

Alabama has some incredible state parks, from the  Gulf beaches to the Appalachians’ foothills . With 21 parks to explore, visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and  fishing  to waterfalls, caves, and so much more. Cheaha State Park and Oak Mountain State Park are a few of the best!

Experience Cheaha Mountain, the tallest point in the  state  and one of the most photographed places in Alabama. Or discover Oak Mountains State Park, the largest state park with over 50 miles of trails , and the Alabama Wildlife Center. With its proximity to Birmingham, Oak Mountain is a great place to catch panoramic views.

2. Orange Beach

When it comes to incredible  beaches in Alabama , Orange Beach is at the top of the list. So, if you’d like to enjoy a relaxing  family vacation  or an adventurous getaway with friends, there are plenty of attractions that make Orange Beach a popular choice, from swimming and fishing to shopping and golfing.

And it is only 15 minutes from  Perdido Key, Florida , if you’d like to spend the day beach hopping some of the best beaches along the Gulf of Mexico.

3. Dauphin Island

With miles of sugar-white sand beaches to explore,  Dauphin Island  is a barrier island located off the coast south of Mobile. There are many fun attractions to see on the island. Visitors can learn about the local wildlife and ecosystems at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab and Estuarium, tour the historic Civil War Fort at Fort Gains, and watch for sea turtles, birds, and alligators at the Bird Sanctuary.

Visitors can also ride the Mobile Bay Ferry from Dauphin Island to Fort Morgan to tour the grounds of another historic location, the Fort Morgan State Historic Site.

4. Gulf Shores

Located on the beautiful Alabama coast, Gulf Shores is home to some of America’s best beaches and an array of activities. With its white sands and clear waters, it’s no wonder why so many people flock here. Check out the beaches and go  camping at Gulf State Park .

Be sure to visit The Wharf for shopping and  restaurants  and to ride the famous Ferris wheel. Gulf Shores is one of the best places to vacation in Alabama.

5. Talladega Superspeedway

NASCAR is a big deal in the South, and the Talladega Superspeedway is one of the sport’s most iconic tracks. Talladega treats spectators to an adrenaline-filled atmosphere of heart-pounding excitement, full of roaring engines. This legendary racetrack should be on your Alabama  bucket list .

6. Little River Canyon National Preserve

Located in the northeast part of the state in the southern Appalachians,  Little River Canyon National Preserve  is a beautiful national park. Discover  outdoor activities  and natural wonders like cascading waterfalls, towering sandstone bluffs, and miles of trails for hiking and sightseeing.

7. Bankhead National Forest

With over 90 miles of trails, the Bankhead National Forest and Sipsey Wilderness in northwest Alabama are beautiful places to enjoy outdoor recreation. Known as the “Land of a Thousand Waterfalls,” there are so many waterfalls you won’t be disappointed exploring every moss-covered bend. The area is about an hour and a half from Birmingham.

8. U.S. Space and Rocket Center

A trip to the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama, gives visitors a view of what astronauts experience when they enter outer space. It is also the official Visitor Center for the NASA Marshall Space Flight Center. Come and see why it’s one of the most extraordinary things to do in Alabama.

9. Huntsville Botanical Garden

The Huntsville Botanical Garden is one of Alabama’s top tourist attractions. The sights, sounds, and scents create a fun experience. With over 100 acres of gardens containing hundreds of plants and flowers – along with outdoor activities like walking trails, ponds, butterfly houses, and an amphitheater featuring live music performances and educational workshops – this is truly a special place.

10. GulfQuest National Maritime Museum

For a fun and educational activity on your  next vacation , check out the GulfQuest National Maritime Museum of the Gulf of Mexico. Located in Mobile Bay, this interactive museum offers exciting exhibits. If you are curious about maritime history and culture, you’ll love the immersive exhibits and displays of sea-faring vessels.

11. Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

Are you interested in learning more about the history of civil rights? If so, then you can’t miss the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute. Located in downtown Birmingham, this educational center offers visitors a look into some of the most significant moments in U.S. civil rights and their lasting impact on society today.

12. Bellingrath Gardens and Home

A visit to Bellingrath Gardens and Home should be at the top of your list. Famed for its 65 acres of stunning gardens featuring blooms that span all four seasons and its beautiful 10,500 square-foot home filled with art and porcelain, Bellingrath  combines beauty and history .

13. Alligator Alley

For an adventure that will get your heart pounding, check out Alligator Alley in Summerdale. Alligator Alley features swamps and wetlands inhabited by alligators – creating a unique experience for nature lovers. You can even feed alligators and hold them!

14. Dexter Parsonage Museum

Visit where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. lived with his family from 1954-1960. Some of the furniture still within the Parsonage was used by Dr. King himself. Walk the gardens and visit the Interpretive Center adjacent to the museum.

15. Birmingham Museum of Art

Experience history with ancient artifacts and learn about different cultures across continents through unique pieces at the Birmingham Museum of Art. This museum is free to enter.

16. Rosa Parks Library and Museum

Created to honor the civil rights movement, this active Memorial is a great way to explore the legacy of one of America’s most iconic figures, Rosa Parks. Located in Montgomery, Alabama, learn more about her influential legacy.

17. U.S. Veterans Memorial Museum

Located in Huntsville, the U.S. Veterans Memorial Museum is overflowing with displays, interactive exhibits, and inspiring stories that will leave a lasting impression.

18. Ave Maria Grotto

Do you love unique places? The Ave Maria Grotto is an old quarry in the hills of Cullman, Alabama. You can see mini replicas of famous religious structures from all over the world.

19. Vulcan Park and Museum

Home to one of the largest cast iron statues on earth, the 56-foot statue of the Roman god of fire and forge, Vulcan, is an iconic attraction that offers neat views of Birmingham. In addition, the museum provides insights into the area’s local history and culture. It is a  unique stop for road-trippers  passing through and a quirky place to check out.

20. Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum

Have you ever wanted to step back in time and experience the golden age of motorcycling? The Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to do just that. This museum in Birmingham houses the world’s largest collection, with over 1,200 motorcycles. So, if you like motorcycles, don’t miss this place!

21. First White House of the Confederacy

Explore one of Alabama’s most historical landmarks – the first White House of the Confederacy. Executive home to President Jefferson Davis, it offers a glimpse into the nation’s past. The house still has furniture from the 1850s and 1860s. It is open to the public to learn more about how this structure played a role in shaping U.S. history.

22. Birmingham Children’s Theatre

A fun experience for families that are musically inclined and into theatrical art, the Birmingham Children’s Theatre is a fantastic place. Visit their website to see performance schedules. They also offer classes and camps.

23. McWane Science Center

Located in the heart of downtown Birmingham, this center takes visitors on a journey through science. With four floors of interactive exhibits and activities, animal demonstrations, educational programs, and planetarium shows, there’s something fun to see around every corner at the McWane Science Center. Don’t miss the live shark tank or IMAX dome theater!

24. USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park

One of the most extended intact military installations in Alabama’s history, the USS ALABAMA Battleship offers a fantastic experience. Visitors can climb aboard this 680-foot museum ship and explore while learning more about World War II and life in the Navy. It is one of the most recognized symbols of the state.

25. Stephens Gap Callahan Cave Preserve

Get ready to explore one of Alabama’s most breathtaking geological wonders, Stephens Gap Callahan Cave Preserve. Located in Jackson County, this incredible destination is known for its massive and awe-inspiring limestone caves that offer visitors an experience unlike any other. Permits are required to enter the cave.

Have Fun Exploring the Heart of Dixie

There are plenty of amazing things to do in the Heart of Dixie! So, whether you’re in the mood for a relaxing  beach vacation  on the Gulf, or an action-packed city getaway full of history and art tours, don’t skip out on planning a vacation in Alabama! You won’t regret exploring this incredible state in the Deep South.

This article originally appeared on  Savoteur .

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Ashlee is a nationally syndicated freelance travel writer who has carved out a niche in the world of adventure travel. Her work has been featured on MSN, Wealth of Geeks, RV Industry Association, and more. She specializes in writing about road trips, camping, and hiking. Ashlee has traveled the world and grew up in the Western U.S. During her early years, she learned how the simple act of spending time outside makes us happier. She’s also the founder of The Happiness Function , a travel website inspiring happiness through outdoor recreation. Follow her on Twitter .

Find your Sweet Spot in Alabama's authentic southern experiences

Unforgettable experiences and things to do in alabama.

Whether your favorite distraction is exploring nature and wildlife, taking self-guided tours, lounging on the Alabama beaches, or shopping till you drop, there’s never a lack of things to do in Alabama. But you won’t just find activities in Alabama; you’ll discover unforgettable experiences. When you explore the terrain of the mountains, you’ll feel it. While you indulge in gratifying cuisine, you’ll taste it. As you take the time you need to recharge and find your best self, you’ll become stronger by it. This is Alabama.

Arts & Culture

The many creative experiences in Alabama can transport you to a new world, make you feel things you've never felt before, or even inspire you to see things in a new light. That's the beautiful power of Alabama's culture and arts scene. In the mood for theater, poetry readings, or spoken word performances? Maybe you’re excited about experiencing Alabama through sculpture, architecture, or painting. Embark on a creative exploration today!

Alabama claims 60 miles of the Gulf Coast shoreline, 32 of which are covered with pristine beachfront. Feel the soft, white sand underneath your feet, and listen to the soothing sounds of the waves crashing upon the shore. Alabama is famous for its white beaches, created by tiny quartz crystals washed here from the Appalachian Mountains. The ultimate beach lover’s oasis is waiting for you in Sweet Home Alabama.

Civil Rights Legacy

There is no place more seeped in civil rights history than Alabama, home to many impactful events that occurred during the Civil Rights Movement. Here, courageous leaders inspired a movement that forever changed the course of history. Celebrate an era of triumph and tragedy that redefined the nation. Explore Gee’s Bend, the Civil Rights Trail, monumental African American historic sites, and more. Take part in unique events and visit featured locations home to the nation’s most engaging civil rights experiences.

Food & Drink

Good food paves the way for meaningful conversations and memories that will last a lifetime. No one understands that better than the chefs and restaurateurs in Alabama. Authentic Alabama cuisine is nothing short of legendary! Experience mouthwatering culinary creations and unique dining experiences that will have you coming back for more. Think you’ve had good barbecue before? Not until you’ve experienced Alabama barbecue made with white barbecue sauce! Good food doesn’t get any better than iconic Alabama offerings like Martin’s fried chicken, shrimp and grits from Blind Mule, and Irondale Cafe’s classic fried green tomatoes.

Viewing the world through the lens of the past can reveal quite a bit. Uncover the past and learn about the people, places, and events that have shaped the world’s history. Out of all the things to do in Alabama, the most significant destinations are its historical sites. From the historic capital, Montgomery, to its biggest city, Huntsville; Alabama offers a legacy that began before it was established as a territory back in 1817.

Are you a music lover who searches the globe for what moves your spirit? Let the sounds of Sweet Home Alabama take you on a one-of-a-kind journey that spans across genres and time for a top-of-the-charts experience. The rich music scene across the state presents an endless array of things to do in Alabama that are truly inspirational. From jazz, country, and rock and roll to the blues, gospel, and beyond, music that has shaped the culture still thrives strong and true in Alabama.

Experience wildflowers as you’ve never seen them at DeSoto State Park, go camping at Forever Wild Wehle Tract, or learn to hunt through Alabama’s Adult Mentored Hunt program! As one of the most biologically diverse states in the country, Alabama offers true outdoor adventure. From its plentiful rivers and lakes to its sugar-white sand beaches, Alabama’s vast geographical landscape is home to natural wonders of all kinds ready to awaken the explorer in you.

Science & Discovery

Let Alabama speak to your sense of wonder. The mysteries of space and beyond can be explored here, where imagination meets innovation. Discover things to do in Alabama at every turn, from the McWane Science Center in Birmingham to the U.S Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville to the Dauphin Island Sea Lab in Mobile County. You can touch a meteorite, see a digital seashell generator, or visit an enormous aquarium!

Sitting on the edge of your seat, a chill runs down your spine while watching your favorite team that has you coming back for more. Where champions are built, winning is the norm, and losing is just called learning. Step into the fast-paced world of Alabama's legendary sports today. If you’re looking for things to do in Alabama, don’t miss an Alabama Crimson Tide or Auburn football game, Trash Pandas baseball game, Legion soccer match, or Squadron basketball game. Finally, no visit to Alabama is complete without experiencing the unbeatable rush of racing at tracks like the Talladega Superspeedway, the Atmore Dragway, or the East Alabama Motor Speedway. You can even get behind the wheel yourself at the Richard Petty Driving Experience! Or, spend a day at the Barber Vintage Motorsports Park and Museum, home of the Honda Indy Grand Prix of Alabama. The excitement of Alabama sports is a true rush you won’t want to miss!

Year-Round Golf

When it comes to things to do in Alabama, golf is at the top of the list for many visitors, and it might top yours, too! With Alabama’s vast geographical landscape and wildlife, many golfers enjoy not only the challenge of each course but also its natural beauty. The Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail is the ultimate experience for golf enthusiasts, with 468 thrilling holes across 11 destinations throughout the state. In total, there are 26 pristine golf courses on the trail, beckoning you to come and experience the game on a whole new level. With dozens of spectacular golf courses across every part of the state, it’s no wonder why so many golfers flock to Alabama year-round!

Attractions

Top 10 experience attractions.

• U.S. Space & Rocket Center
• Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail
• Birmingham Zoo
• Equal Justice Initiative Museums
• USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park
• Talladega Superspeedway
• Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum
• Huntsville Botanical Garden
• McWane Science Center
• Point Mallard Park

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.

Fill out your information below to receive a printed guide and Alabama state highway map in the mail. Note: Currently we only send mail inside the United States. All fields are required unless otherwise specified.

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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

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

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!

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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Must-see attractions in Alabama

Sloss Furnaces

The Sloss Furnaces constitutes one of Birmingham's can't-miss sites. From 1882 to 1971, this was a pig iron–producing blast furnace and a cornerstone of…

Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

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National Memorial for Peace & Justice

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Splinter Hill Bog

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US Space & Rocket Center

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Dismals Canyon Conservatory

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Dexter Avenue Parsonage

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Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge

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Edmund Pettus Bridge

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Moundville Archaeological Park

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Little River Canyon

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Audubon Bird Sanctuary – Dauphin Island

A 3-mile trail wends through 137 acres of maritime forest, sand dunes and wetlands, marking a small space that's a big deal to the world's bird population…

Legacy Museum

This museum, a companion to the National Memorial for Peace and Justice, artfully explains the roots of institutionalized racism in the USA, and…

Gee's Bend Quilt Collective

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Civil Rights Memorial Center

With its circular design crafted by Maya Lin, this haunting memorial focuses on 40 martyrs of the Civil Rights movement. Some cases remain unsolved…

Rosenbaum House

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Vulcan Park

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Birmingham Museum of Art

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Kelly Ingram Park

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Dexter Avenue King Memorial Church

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Monte Sano State Park

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Lake Guntersville State Park

Where much of North Alabama feels a step removed from pure wilderness, Lake Guntersville State Park provides an interesting counterpoint. This park has…

Burritt on the Mountain

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Weeks Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve

This reserve seeks to protect the wetlands that spread between Mobile and Weeks Bay, an ecological smorgasboard ranging from salt marsh to flooded swamp…

16th Street Baptist Church

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Railroad Park

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Cane Creek Canyon Nature Preserve

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Huntsville Botanical Garden

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University of Alabama

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Talladega National Forest

This National Forest encompasses some 612 sq miles of protected land that sits at the very southern edge of the Appalachian Mountains. Talladega covers a…

Old Cahawba Archaeological Park

This eerie ghost town, faded by time and jungly overgrowth, was once the capital of Alabama. By the 20th century, Cahawba was abandoned, and today its…

Cathedral Caverns State Park

The un-hyperbolic nature of the name 'Cathedral Caverns' is made evident when you first approach the cavern entrance, a whopping 126ft wide and 25ft high…

Cheaha State Park

In Muskogee, Cheaha means 'high place,' which is an admirably succinct descriptor of this, the highest mountain in Alabama. The park, and the mountain it…

Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum

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Rosa Parks Museum

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Scott & Zelda Fitzgerald Museum

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Russell Cave National Monument

While it is utterly off the beaten track (and most people's radars), Russell Cave was an important population site of North Alabama for many millennia…

The Estuarium acts as the public education space for the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, Alabama's primary marine research facility. There are over 100 species on…

Black Belt Treasures Cultural Arts Center

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More destinations you need to see

42 Fun Things To Do & Places To Visit In Alabama

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Last updated: April 30, 2024

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

U.S. Space & Rocket Center

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

Frank Lloyd Wright Rosenbaum House Museum

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

Gulf Shores

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

Huntsville Botanical Garden

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

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

USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park

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

McWane Science Center

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

Cheaha State Park

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

Bellingrath Gardens and Home

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

Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

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

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

Dauphin Island

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

Rosa Parks Library and Museum

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

Alligator Alley

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

Fort Gaines

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

Birmingham Zoo

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

Ave Maria Grotto

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

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

Diegoandrade , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

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

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

F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum ( Heather Cowper / flickr )

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

Little River Canyon

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

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

Mobile Carnival Museum

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

Bryant Denny Stadium

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

Dismals Canyon

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

Moundville Archaeological Park

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

Talladega Superspeedway

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

Tinglewood Carvings ( Angie Flowers / flickr )

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

Alabama Wildlife Center ( Ralph Daily / flickr )

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

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

Town of Spectre ( Jason Biro / flickr )

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

Civil Rights Memorial

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

Orange Beach

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

GulfQuest National Maritime Museum of the Gulf of Mexico

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

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

Neversink Pit ( Jimmy Emerson, DVM / flickr )

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

Sloss Furnaces

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

Natural Bridge

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

Southeastern Raptor Center ( Josh Hallett / flickr )

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!

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The 15 best things to do in Alabama

From delicious eats to cultural activities, these are the best things to do in Alabama, a true hidden gem of a state

Alabama is often overlooked – and sometimes given a bad rap – as a tourist destination, but visitors are pleasantly surprised by the variety of things to do. From authentic, bluesy juke joints to civil rights history and one of the country’s best restaurants (according to the two James Beard awards it won in 2018), Alabama is a great place to start getting to know the South. The key to getting the most out of your trip to the Yellowhammer state is to diversify: chill at the beach, visit a museum, follow the barbecue trail, see some art, then get outdoors at a state park. Here’s your guide to ‘Bama culture.

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Best things to do in Alabama

1.  orange beach.

What is it?  Alabama may not immediately come to mind when you think ‘beach’, but the state’s southern border features 32 miles of coastline hugging the Gulf of Mexico, where white sand beaches meet clear coastal waters in towns like Orange Beach.

Why go? Beyond the sun and sand, the area is known for its nature preserves, golf courses, and fishing expeditions. Enjoy building sand castles, play in the waves, bask in the sun and enjoy all the beachy glory.

2.  Unclaimed Baggage Center

What is it? Unclaimed Baggage Center in Scottsboro is the only place in the country where they buy unclaimed baggage from airlines and sell the contents.

Why go? Shopping at the Unclaimed Baggage Center is an experience like no other. Around 7,000 items arrive each day, mostly clothes, jewelry, sporting goods, and electronics (though they’ve found everything in people’s luggage from a shrunken head to a 5.8-carat diamond ring). You never know what treasures you’ll pick up.

3.  US Space & Rocket Center

What is it? Huntsville is home to the world’s largest space flight museum, where the Saturn V was developed to put the first man on the moon. The US Space & Rocket Center houses 1,500 space-related artifacts and traces the evolution of the space program.

Why go? Anyone with an interest in history and space travel will want to see the Mercury and Gemini capsule trainers, the Apollo 16 capsule, and one of the few V-2 rockets in the nation.

4.  Gip’s Place

What is it? In Bessemer, not far from Birmingham, one of the country’s last authentic juke joints still operates every Saturday night out of Herman “Gip” Gipson’s tin-roofed garage. Juke joints were popular throughout the segregated South and provided a place where African Americans could enjoy drinking, dancing, and music, usually in someone’s home.

Why go? 98-year-old Gip still runs weekly events in his off-the-beaten-path blues mecca. It might be tricky to find this house strung with Christmas lights, but it’s a once in a lifetime cultural experience in the American South. Bring your own food and drink.

5.  Auburn

What is it? Auburn is a quintessential Alabama college town, home of the Auburn Tigers sports teams. You’ve never seen so much school pride, with locals often sporting Auburn gear (‘War Eagle’ is a football fan’s cry) and throwing epic football tailgating parties. It’s the perfect place to experience a slice of university life.

Why go? Toomer’s Corner has legendary lemonade, J&M Bookstore is the place to pick up Auburn swag, and take a stroll through the Donald E. Davis Arboretum or visit the Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. Slurp local oysters at The Depot, sip a beer at The Hound, brunch at Acre (who’s had a James Beard nomination), and then hike it off at Chewacla State Park.

6.  Birmingham Brewery Tour

What is it? Red Clay Tours does walking tours stopping at three different Birmingham breweries, with a beer flight at each.

Why go?  To work your way through IPAs, porters, sours and other tipples created by expert brewmasters. Birmingham is experiencing a craft beer renaissance at breweries like Avondale, Trim Tab, Good People, and Cahaba. A walking tour with a local is a good way to sample the best of the B-ham beerscape.

7.  The F Scott & Zelda Fitzgerald Museum

What is it? F Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald, America’s iconic jazz age authors, were known for living to the hilt. They defined an era, enjoying glamourous lives in Paris and beyond, but their story began in Montgomery, Alabama. The home in which they lived and wrote in 1931 and 1932 is the only museum in the world dedicated to their legacies.

Why go? Not only can visitors to the museum explore the cultural significance left by the Fitzgeralds on American literary history, but the house is available as an Airbnb rental , so you can actually stay the night in a place steeped in times gone by.

8.  Town of Spectre

What is it? Tim Burton’s 2003 movie ‘Big Fish’ was filmed on Jackson Lake Island, a privately owned island in Millbrook. In the film, the main character goes back to the (made-up) town of Spectre at different points in his life. The buildings constructed for the movie set were left standing and can be visited by tourists.

Why go? Visiting an abandoned movie set resembling a dilapidated town is fun enough, but guests can also camp, fish, and boat right there on the island for just $10. (Go ahead and throw your shoes on the line!)

9.  Mobile Carnival Museum

What is it?  The Carnival Museum in Mobile, a port city on the Gulf Coast, takes you through the history of Mardi Gras, via costumes, flamboyant floats and photographs dating back to 1886.

Why go? Mobile was the first capital of French Louisiana and the location of the New World’s first Mardi Gras (known locally as Carnival) in 1703. Uncover a pocket of antebellum life and follow the parade right up to the modern day.

10.  Birmingham Museum of Art

What is it? The Birmingham Museum of Art has one of the best art collections in the South-east. Its 24,000 works cover Asian, African, European, American, Pre-Columbian and Native American art.

Why go?  The museum has comprehensive collections of Asian art (especially Vietnamese ceramics) and is also known for its collection of renaissance and baroque paintings. It’s also worth checking out the eighteenth-century European decorative arts collection and the outdoor sculpture garden.

11.  Alabama BBQ Trail

What is it? Barbecue in Alabama is such serious business that the state’s tourism board created a handy app guide. It provides the best restaurants, sends you alerts when you’re near places you’ve been wanting to try, then allows you to check off places you’ve visited and earn badges as you rise up the ranks from piglet to ‘BBQ king’.

Why go? The world of Alabama barbecue is all about bone suckin’ secret sauce and finger lickin’ techniques passed down through families, so exploring the world of ‘meat and three’ (that’s your choice of meat and three sides) is a must. Pro tip: discover the state’s unique Alabama White Sauce, and don’t forget the serviettes.

12.  Highlands Bar & Grill

What is it?  In the food world, there’s no higher honor than a James Beard Award. In Birmingham you’ll find the restaurant the foundation has deemed best in the country: Highlands Bar & Grill.

Why go?  The daily changing menu is heavily influenced by local produce and classic French cooking: think game and root veg in winter and soft-shell crab in summer. The pastry chef, Dolester Miles, was also named best in the country this year.

13.  Montgomery Civil Rights Trail

What is it? Montgomery is home to the Rosa Parks Museum, the Dexter Parsonage Museum (where Martin Luther King Jr was pastor and lived), the Civil Rights Memorial, the Museum of Alabama, the First White House of the Confederacy, and the newly appointed National Memorial for Peace and Justice.

Why go?  From slavery to civil rights, Alabama has a gut-wrenching past for African Americans. Montgomery is the birthplace of the United States’ civil rights movement, a fascinating and key facet of US history.

14.  Alligator Alley

What is it? Alligator Alley was created to provide a natural habitat for 450 of the rescued reptiles. The guided adventure begins on a raised viewing platform and includes holding a baby gator or participating in a feeding.

Why go? This is more than just an alligator-watching experience – you get a real feel for local flora and fauna on a nature walk with viewings of turtles, bullfrogs, osprey, owls, and more.

15.  Explore Alabama’s State Parks

What is it? Alabama is full of beautiful state parks that offer hiking, camping, boating, fishing, swimming, biking, ziplining, and more. Cathedral Caverns and Rickwood offer cave tours, Meaher has a path through wetlands, and Oak Mountain is home to the Alabama Wildlife Center.

Why go? Alabama’s ecological diversity is a wonder, from lakes to caves to hills. Grab a picnic lunch and go explore the great outdoors.

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10 Best Places to Visit in Alabama

By Carl Austin · Last updated on February 5, 2024

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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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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Home > Road Trip Itineraries > Southern States and Deep South > Alabama Top 10: Best Things to Do in the Heart of the Southern United States

Alabama Top 10: Best Things to Do in the Heart of the Southern United States

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If you’re planning an itinerary of the southern states you should also consider the Heart of Dixie, as Alabama ‘s motto states. The beating heart of Dixie with its traditions, its troubled history and its contradictions. Visiting Alabama means taking a real trip to an America that is different from the classic road trips on the East and West Coasts , but no less beautiful and fascinating.

Making a top 10 list always requires a selection and, reluctantly, many attractions that would certainly be worth a visit have been left out. Notwithstanding the personal preferences included in this selection, I have tried to point out what I think are the main places to visit and the best things to do in Alabama .

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach

Dauphin island – fort gaines, us space & rocket center, cheaha state park, huntsville botanical garden, ave maria grotto, noccalula falls park, bonus: muscle shoals sound studio.

Welcome to the capital of Alabama , which has inextricably linked its name to the story of Rosa Parks and the battle for the civil rights of African Americans. It was here that in 1955, Rosa refused to give up her seat on a bus to a white man, thus starting a boycott and then a greater awareness of the problem of integration that soon spread to the southern states and later throughout the United States.

It is therefore not surprising that there are many museums and attractions dedicated to these events. In particular we point out the Rosa Parks Museum which is located in front of the bus stop on which she was sitting, and the Civil Rights Memorial Center with its moving tribute to the 40 martyrs of the movement. Tied instead more closely to the life of Martin Luther King is the Dexter Avenue church where the pastor was a minister of worship during his youth.

Changing the subject, country music lovers should consider a visit to the Hank Williams Museum which houses photos, instruments and memorabilia of the great American singer. If it’s a nice day, don’t miss a visit along the lovely Riverwalk that runs along the Alabama River and where you can take a tour on a characteristic nineteenth century boat: the Harriott II .

Still in the field of American history, Montgomery is also home to the First White House of the Confederacy , the residence of President Jefferson Davis of the Southern states during the Civil War before the capital was moved permanently to Richmond, Virginia.

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When we talk about southern states, most of the time we tend to forget that many of them also have a coastline and offer many more beach vacation attractions than you might think. Such is the case with Gulf Shores which is located at the gateway to Mobile Bay.

White sandy beaches and crystal clear water are also the lowest common denominators of the neighboring Orange Beach where you will find some of the most beautiful and popular beaches in the state. You will find numerous well-equipped areas, a considerable amount of accommodations, restaurants and pubs to meet all your holiday needs.

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Here we are on the opposite side of the bay from Gulf Shores. This island is best known for hosting Fort Gaines , the outpost that gained notoriety especially during the events of the Battle of Mobile Bay during the American Civil War. Today, you can visit its interior, which houses a museum and war relics such as the original cannons that were installed in the fort. Tours of the military outpost are conducted by guides in historical uniforms to best recreate the wartime atmosphere.

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Having mentioned the two extremes that lie at the mouth of Mobile Bay, it’s time to mention the town that gives the bay its name. Taking a walk around the pleasant Historic Districts , where the houses were built with a mix of architecture ranging from Victorian to Italianate style, passing through the “free renaissance”, will make you take a pleasant leap back in time.

In addition to the coast, the main attraction is the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park , where you can visit the giant warship USS Alabama, used during World War II in the Pacific and Atlantic theater of war. Other military vehicles in the park include the USS Drum submarine, a Sherman tank, as well as some bomber and fighter planes. The complex also features two memorials dedicated to the Korean and Vietnam Wars. The entrance fee is $15-18.

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If the history of space exploration has always fascinated you, this is the place for you. An exhibition of dozens and dozens of vehicles, including space probes, rockets and shuttles, through which man has been able to explore the universe, are on display in this very special museum.

In addition to the permanent exhibitions, where you can find more information about the history of NASA, in particular the conquest of the moon and the missions of the international space station, the flagship of the museum are definitely the Rocket Park and the Shuttle Park . Here you can admire some of the most important vehicles and instruments that have made the history of astronomy in all their grandeur.

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The park includes Cheaha Mountain which is the highest point in the state (more than 2395 feet above sea level). If you have the opportunity to take a walking tour, it is definitely worthwhile heading to Bald Rock Outlook , the main attraction of the park from where you can dominate the whole area below.

Inside the park there is also a lake with beaches where you can comfortably rest, sunbathe, swim and rent a boat.

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Although at first glance it may seem strange to include botanical gardens in a top 10 list, in this case it was necessary to do so given the size and beauty of the Huntsville Botanical Garden . These gardens attract more than 300,000 visitors each year from all parts of the state, fascinated by the beautiful colors and numerous species, including rare ones, that can be observed throughout the year.

Particularly spectacular is the Damson Aquatic Garden a garden that is developed above a circular pool of considerable size, where you can admire the impressive size of the water lilies. The place is also perfect if you are traveling with children in tow because there are numerous attractions included that can interest and keep even the youngest busy.

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Also known as the “Jerusalem in miniature ,” it consists of as many as 125 miniature reproductions of the world’s most important religious structures, including St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, the Abbey of Monte Cassino destroyed during World War II, and the Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes.

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Alabama’s largest and most populous city. Here, too, the city’s history is closely tied to that of civil rights as you can understand by visiting the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute , where the city’s troubled history is chronicled through well-curated exhibits.

If you feel like taking a walk somewhere green, head to Vulcan Park where it is impossible not to notice a giant statue dedicated to the god Vulcan placed on top of a panoramic tower, from where you can access and enjoy a beautiful 360° view of the entire city. To climb the tower you need to pay an entrance fee of $6.

Jazz music lovers mustn’t miss the chance to visit the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame with a museum that traces the history of this musical genre. One of the most visited attractions in the city is Birmingham Zoo, which houses almost a thousand animals of about three hundred different species, the entrance fee is $18,95.

Lovers of culture and art should not miss a visit to the Birmingham Museum of Arts which houses works from Europe by artists such as Dali and Botero.

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This is a park where the main attraction is a very scenic waterfall . The name comes from the name of a young Cherokee woman who, according to some local legends, committed suicide after her father forced her to marry a husband she did not love. In memory of this event there is also a bronze statue depicting the young Indian woman. The amount of water that pours into Black Creek Gorge depends on the amount of rainfall that has occurred, so the view you find will vary quite a bit depending on the time of year you visit the park.

Among the many paths that you can take, the one that I think is the most scenic is the Gorge Trail , which will allow you to pass under the characteristic waterfalls, observing them from a very unusual and special position. An original way to visit the park is to use a train that, along a scenic route inside the park, will allow you to enjoy the view while sitting comfortably aboard this unique means of transport.

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Like all self-respecting top 10s, I couldn’t fail to mention a… bonus track ! And never before has the name been more appropriate, precisely because we are talking about an attraction inextricably linked to the world of music. In this small recording studio, in fact, some of the greatest artists and musical groups in history have recorded their hits.Just to name the most famous ones, trying not to do anyone an injustice, let us remember the Rolling Stones , Paul Simon, Bob Seger, Bob Dylan, Lynyrd Skynyrd and Rod Stewart. In reference to the Rolling Stones, we remember the legend according to which Keith Richards composed the entire song Wild Horses inside the bathroom of the studio. If you visit the bathroom during the tour, you will know why.

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Filippo Nardelli

I have a degree in History of North America and have always been fascinated by the United States.

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25 Best Things to Do in Alabama — Fun Activities & Stuff to Do!

By: Author Martha Jenkins

Posted on Published: February 25, 2021  - Last updated: August 21, 2023

Get a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life by going on a much-deserved vacation to the Heart of Dixie, Alabama,

I have explored this Southeastern state intensively and have personally spent time and effort discovering the best things to do in Alabama.

I toured many spectacular hotspots, like museums, entertainment centers, outdoor attractions, historical landmarks, and so much more.

However, the challenge starts with planning and making sure the attractions are worthwhile.

I have been in this situation too.

That is why I want to help you make your dream getaway a reality.

As a seasoned travel writer, I have carefully hand-picked all the fun-filled things to do, based on their fun factor, popularity, reviews, and the like.

This comprehensive review is all you need to make that picture-perfect adventure happen.

So, prepare to go on an adventure of a lifetime as you discover the places below.

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Best Things To Do In Alabama Compared

Whether you’re looking for a laid-back adventure, a romantic getaway, or a fun-filled trip with the kids, Alabama has it all.

So, check out these top picks and plan your next adventure.

Editor’s Choice

Historical Highlights of Birmingham

Historical Highlights of Birmingham is operated by Red Clay Tours on 1st Avenue South.

• Family-Friendliness: 4/5
• Affordability: 5/5
• Accessibility: 4/5
• Fun Factor: 3.5/5
• Educational Value: 4.5/5

#2nd Best Choice

Alabama Gulf Coast Dolphin Cruise

Alabama Gulf Coast Dolphin Cruise, operated by Crusie Orange Beach Dolphin Cruises, is a fantastic tour exploring marine life.

• Family-Friendliness: 5/5
• Affordability: 4/5
• Fun Factor: 4.5/5
• Educational Value: 3.5/5

#3rd Best Choice

Mobile Carnival Museum

Established in 2005, Mobile Carnival Museum focuses on the 300-year history of Carnival and Mardi Gras.

• Fun Factor: 5/5
• Educational Value: 4/5

Here are the top 25 things to do in Alabama.

1. Historical Highlights of Birmingham (Editor’s Choice)

1600 1st Ave S Birmingham, AL 35233 (205) 240-3829 Visit Website

Ratings Criteria

• It includes eight attractions to explore
• Provides a historically rich experience 
•  It might be boring for younger children

Why You’ll Enjoy This Activity

If you’re a history buff, Historical Highlights of Birmingham should definitely be on your bucket list.

You’ll get to explore the city’s rich history with the help of an expert guide who will share interesting stories about each landmark.

From exploring Birmingham’s Railroad Park to visiting the Vulcan Park and Museum, you’ll be fascinated with all of these attractions.

This tour lets you explore famous local attractions, notably the Rickwood Field Park in America.

It is the oldest baseball park in the country, and you can also enjoy watching a baseball tournament with your kids.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Elyton Hotel, Autograph Collection

2. Alabama Gulf Coast Dolphin Cruise

27844 Canal Rd Orange Beach, AL 36561 (251) 986-6694 Visit Website

• Ideal for families with kids of all ages
• Several departure times throughout the day
•  Weather-dependant

For two hours, this tour lets you get up close and personal with dolphins and other fantastic sea creatures.

They also have snacks and beverages on board in case you need a quick bite.

Aside from playing with the dolphins during the tour, the hermit carbs are also a show-stopper.

This lets your kids feel entertained watching these sea creatures.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Premier – The Tides

3. Mobile Carnival Museum

355 Government St Mobile, AL 36602 (251) 432-3324 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Easily accessible location in the downtown district
• Affordable entrance fees
• Limited galleries

This museum is unlike any other.

While we are used to seeing somber histories of the past, this museum showcases the vibrant culture of carnival shows.

It features galleries, fabulous costumes, and old sparkly Mardi Gras crowns.

Get an immersive look starting with The Den.

It is a warehouse-style area that features several floats used in previous parades.

It also has interactive activities where young ones can play dress-up.

And you can even take pictures dressing up as a Mardi Gras Queen.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Admiral Hotel

4. Muscle Shoals Sound Studio

3614 N Jackson Hwy Sheffield, AL 35660 (256) 978-5151 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Muscle Shoals Sound Studio, established in 1969, is an American recording studio that debuted in Sheffield.

This attraction is a must-visit tourist hotspot for music lovers and history buffs.

Throughout the years, it has welcomed several world-class artists, like The Rolling Stones, Cher, George Michael, Aretha Franklin, and so much more.

It is also the perfect destination for those who want to visit a popular place that isn’t time-consuming.

Plus, this attraction is a fantastic budget-friendly alternative to the Alabama Gulf Coast Dolphin Cruise and Historical Highlights of Birmingham.

Get the chance to learn about its rich history and the many famous artists by signing up for a guided tour.

You can also buy souvenirs, like t-shirts, coffee mugs, keychains, journals, baseball caps, postcards, glassware, magnets, and countless others.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Marriott Shoals Hotel & Spa

5. Rattlesnake Saloon — Tuscumbia

1292 Mt Mills Rd Tuscumbia, AL 35674 (256) 370-7220 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Rattlesnake Saloon is a well-known hamburger restaurant under a giant rock.

When looking for a unique place to dine with your family or friends, consider the Rattlesnake Saloon.

It is the perfect spot for you to have a great time eating mouth-watering dishes, as you appreciate the stunning surroundings and listen to music played by performers.

At the Rattlesnake Saloon, you can eat delicious food, like juicy burgers or flavorful chicken wings, and drink refreshing beverages, such as beer or soft drinks.

You may even get the chance to see horses and pet them, with the permission of their owners.

The Rattlesnake Saloon also often holds special events from time to time, where you can enjoy your food while watching the live performances of talented artists.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Plus Tuscumbia/Muscle Shoals Hotel & Suites

6. Cheaha State Park — Delta

19644 AL-281 Delta, AL 36258 (256) 488-5111 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Cheaha State Park is home to Cheaha Mountain, the highest point in Alabama at 2,407 feet.

It is a premier destination for hiking and camping.

Are you craving for some much-needed time in nature, far away from the city and large crowds?

Then pack your stuff and head on down to Cheaha State Park.

It is one of the best places to visit in Alabama to enjoy an immersive experience in the great outdoors.

Cheaha State Park has numerous amenities and facilities to make your nature retreat more comfortable and convenient.

Prepare for a terrific time in the heart of nature at Cheaha State Park.

There are a plethora of activities you can enjoy, like camping, hiking up Cheaha Mountain, picnicking, fishing, paddle boating, and so much more.

There is a small beach where you can relax by the shore, work on your tan, make sandcastles with your children, and enjoy a leisurely swim in the cool water.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Comfort Suites Oxford I-20 exit 188

Related: Best Beaches in Alabama

7. The Museum of Wonder — Seale

970 AL-169 Seale, AL 36875 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Museum of Wonder is a folk art museum featuring taxidermy-related exhibits and displays on former junk turned into art.

The Museum of Wonder is a museum, like no other.

It is a museum for those who like weird, unusual, and quirky exhibits that you won’t find anywhere else.

It is perfect when you are looking for fun places in Alabama to visit with your family, friends, or significant other.

Prepare to be amazed at the Museum of Wonder.

Explore its many quirky galleries and displays featuring jars of dead critters, bones of animals, taxidermy artwork, skeletons drawn on vintage paintings, and plenty more.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn & Suites Phenix City- Columbus Area

8. Ave Maria Grotto — Cullman

1600 St Bernard Dr Cullman, AL 35055 (256) 734-4110 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Ave Maria Grotto is a beautifully landscaped park spanning roughly four acres. It features some of the most popular religious structures on earth.

One of the prettiest things to see in Alabama is the Ave Maria Grotto.

It is home to 125 miniature sculptures of well-known religious structures from different countries and other buildings.

By visiting this grotto, feel like a giant traveling to other countries as you view the different structures.

Spend a couple of minutes of your day touring the Ave Maria Grotto.

At this postcard-perfect location, you can see miniature versions of scenes from ancient Jerusalem, St. Peter’s Basilica, the Tower of Babel, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, German Castles, and loads more.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Fairwinds Inn

Related: Things to Do in Cullman, AL

9. Barber Marina — Elberta

26986 Fish Trap Rd Elberta, AL 36530 (251) 987-2628 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Barber Marina is a boatyard and full-service marina.

It is known for its art installations. What makes it unique and special are its many art installations.

Do you live nearby and aren’t sure where to go in Alabama to enjoy a day of boating?

Then drive on over to the Barber Marina this weekend .

Here, you can have a great time boating on a pristine bay and viewing awe-inspiring art installations.

Launch your water vehicle at the Barber Marina and have a memorable day with your travel buddies sailing on the sparkling waters of Wolf Bay.

There is also a store where you can buy anything you may need on your trip, and souvenirs to take home to your friends or family.

Before heading out into the azure water, take a picture with the art installations by the entrance, like a replica of Stonehenge, an Italian fountain featuring King Neptune, a literal Lady in the Lake statue, and more.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Perdido Beach Resort

10. Civil Rights Memorial — Montgomery

400 Washington Ave Montgomery, AL 36104 (334) 956-8439 Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Civil Rights Memorial is a granite fountain inscribed with the names of those who lost their lives in the Civil Rights Movement.

Take a break from touring fun spots and doing entertaining activities, and visit the Civil Rights Memorial.

Here, you can pay homage to the 41 people who sacrificed their lives to fight for African American rights.

Make a short trip to the Civil Rights Memorial, lay down some flowers, or offer a moment of silence to pay your respects to the martyrs who fought alongside Martin Luther King Jr.

You can also take a guided tour offered by the Civil Rights Memorial Center.

It allows you to gain more knowledge about the Civil Rights Movement, Martin Luther King Jr., and those that gave their lives fighting for freedom and equality.

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

Related: Things to Do in Montgomery, AL

Related: Best Family Hotels in Alabama

11. Red Mountain Park — Birmingham

2011 Frankfurt Dr Birmingham, AL 35211 (205) 202-6043 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Red Mountain Park, spanning 1,500 acres, is a picturesque urban park sitting atop Red Mountain.

This popular park welcomes thousands of visitors annually.

One of the best Alabama activities you can do with your companions is visiting Red Mountain Park.

This gorgeous park offers jaw-dropping views of the landscape below and breathtaking sceneries.

It is a lovely place to visit if you want to enjoy a laid-back atmosphere and a relaxing day at the park.

Enjoy a breath of fresh air at Red Mountain Park.

Here, you can find a dog park where you can take your four-legged friends and play together.

You can enjoy outdoorsy activities like hiking, jogging, ziplining, going through a tree-top obstacle course, and so on.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Renaissance Birmingham Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa

Related: Things to Do in Birmingham, AL

12. Moundville Archaeological Park

634 Mound State Parkway Moundville, AL 35474 (205) 371-2234 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Moundville Archaeological Park is a National Historic Landmark.

It was once the site of a prominent African American tribe.

Moundville Archaeological Park is one of the must see tourist spots that you should visit with your friends, family, or partner.

This site goes back to eight centuries in the past, when the Mississippian people first created their flat-topped earthen mounds.

Bond with your travel companions as you explore the Moundville Archaeological Park.

Here, you can discover the earth mounds they built for their nobles and civic and ceremonial purposes.

There is an onsite museum featuring artifacts and other items recovered from the sites.

This museum combines hundreds of artifacts, modern technology, and recreations to form one of the most important Native American archaeological sites in the United States of America.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Fairfield Inn Tuscaloosa

13. Berman Museum — Anniston

840 Museum Dr Anniston, AL 36206 (256) 237-6261 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Berman Museum is also known as the Berman Museum of World History.

It features an extensive collection of history from different countries worldwide.

If you are a history buff, this is one of the best places to see in Alabama as you discover more than 8,000 artifacts from all around the globe.

It also occasionally holds fun programs and events that may interest you.

Allot a few hours of your day to tour the Berman Museum.

Feel as if you are traveling various continents by viewing artifacts from Asia, French weapons from the Royalist Period, Chinese ceramics, arsenal from WWI, and tons more.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Finial BW Premier Collection Oxford – Anniston

14. Orr Park — Montevallo

Park Dr Montevallo, AL 35115 (205) 665-2555 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Orr Park, nicknamed the Forest of Faces, is a unique park and well-visited tourist attraction in Alabama.

Enjoy fun things to do in Alabama while going on a scenic stroll through a peaceful scenery at Orr Park.

This park is home to numerous fantastical tree carvings by Tim Tingle.

It also features many facilities to make your trip more enjoyable.

Orr Park is a fantastic destination to take your kids.

Your youngsters can have a whimsical time looking at the various carvings on the trees.

Create new memories with your children as you play a game of baseball or softball, splash your feet at a creek, watch over your little ones as they have a blast at the playground, lay down a blanket, and enjoy a picnic together, and so on.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn Calera

Related: Fun Things to Do in Alabama with Kids

15. Alabama Booksmith — Homewood

2626 19th Pl S Homewood, AL 35209 (205) 870-4242 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Alabama Booksmith is one of the best bookstores in the state, known for its high-quality, signed books.

If you are a bookworm and an avid reader, don’t leave the Heart of Dixie without paying a visit to Alabama Booksmith.

This one-of-a-kind bookstore has a warm and cozy ambiance, comfortable furnishings, and hundreds of books, each specially signed by its respective author.

As you browse through the numerous books at Alabama Booksmith, you won’t notice the time passing.

It is the best place to find signed copies of timeless classics, like To Kill a Mockingbird, first edition books, rare novels, and tons more.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Indigo – Birmingham Five Points S – UAB, an IHG Hotel

16. Gulf State Park — Gulf Shores

20115 State Park Rd Gulf Shores, AL 36542 (251) 948-7275 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Gulf State Park is a magnificent beach and public recreation area.

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

Can’t decide what to do in Alabama on a hot, sunny day?

Then take your family or friends to Gulf State Park for a fun-filled beach day.

But if you aren’t comfortable swimming at the beach, this park is also home to Lake Shelby, offering calmer waters for more family-friendly activities.

There are lots to do at Gulf State Park.

At the beach, you can enjoy activities like sunbathing, surfing, parasailing, banana boating, making towering sculptures and castles out of the sand, taking a stroll along the pier, fishing, and much more.

At Lake Shelby, you can do fun things like kayaking, canoeing, swimming, paddle boating, and so on.

You can also have a terrific time doing activities like biking, hiking, visiting a butterfly garden, camping, and swimming in a pool, the safest option when traveling with toddlers.

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

Related: Restaurants: Gulf Shores, Alabama

17. U.S. Space & Rocket Center — Huntsville

1 Tranquility Base Huntsville, AL 35805 (800) 637-7223 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The U.S. Space & Rocket Center is a museum that exhibits the achievements, artifacts, and rockets of the U.S. space program.

Do you have a fascination for the grandeur of our universe?

If so, the U.S. Space & Rocket Center is a mecca for you.

This breathtaking museum offers many things from the U.S. space program that you can view and an immersive experience with its hands-on exhibits.

Share an unforgettable experience with your friends or family at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center.

Here, you can go on a guided tour of the facility and learn about the rockets, the universe, and the U.S. space program.

It also features many hands-on exhibits.

Like, SCUBA, an underwater astronaut experience that involves diving 24-feet down and doing activities alongside an experienced diver.

Another popular exhibit is the Flight Simulator, which allows you to experience what it is like to be a pilot and learn how to fly and navigate an F-18 Super Hornet.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Westin Huntsville

Related: Things to Do in Huntsville, AL

18. Adventure Island — Orange Beach

24559 Perdido Beach Blvd Orange Beach, AL 36561 (251) 974-1500 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Adventure Island is a magnificent, family-friendly amusement park.

It features a boatload of attractions and amenities, guaranteeing a thrilling experience for its visitors.

Looking for cool places to take your family and friends?

Then consider Adventure Island, one of the best amusement centers Alabama has to offer.

It has everything you may need for a memorable, fun-filled day, like rides for all ages, an arcade, a miniature golf course, and more.

Adventure Island has something to offer each of your travel buddies.

You can do activities like go-karting, playing miniature golf at an 18-hole course, enjoying a competitive round of laser tag, bumper boating, trying out classic and new games at the arcade, and tons of other options.

Related: Best Things to Do in Orange Beach, AL

19. Huntsville Botanical Garden

4747 Bob Wallace Ave SW Huntsville, AL 35805 (256) 830-4447 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Huntsville Botanical Garden, spanning 112 acres, is one of the top-paid tourist hotspots in Alabama.

If you are searching for the best place to go on a romantic date with your significant other, the Huntsville Botanical Garden is a spectacular choice.

It is gorgeous and a wondrous place for couples to share a special moment together.

This botanical garden is so romantic and beautiful that it is a well-loved wedding destination.

Spend the day walking hand-in-hand with your beloved at the Huntsville Botanical Garden.

You can do many things together like exploring a butterfly garden, going on a stroll together, and plenty of other options.

It also features special programs on holidays, like the Galaxy of Lights.

It is one of the most romantic moments in the garden as it comes alive with dazzling lights.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: AC by Marriott Hotel Huntsville Downtown

Related: Alabama Travel Tips

20. The Wharf — Orange Beach

4851 Wharf Pkwy E d118 Orange Beach, AL 36561 (251) 224-1900 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Wharf is a waterfront attraction featuring limitless possibilities for you to enjoy with whomever you are vacationing with.

The Wharf is a tourist attraction like no other.

It combines entertainment, great food, outdoor fun, and countless shops offering a wide array of items.

Visit The Wharf today and have a fantastic time together with your companions as you create new memories.

If you can’t figure out what stuff to do in Alabama, this is the best place to visit as you enjoy attractions on land and in the pristine water.

There are numerous things for you to do with your family or friends at The Wharf.

For example, watching a live performance at the amphitheater, dancing the night away to the songs played by a talented DJ, riding a Ferris Wheel, tasting exquisite seafood at a restaurant, sipping fine wine, and going to the marina and having a fun time boating, fishing, and swimming.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Fairfield Inn & Suites Orange Beach

Related: Orange Beach Restaurants

Related: Best Family Vacations in Alabama

21. McWane Science Center — Birmingham

200 19th St N Birmingham, AL 35203 (205) 714-8300 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The McWane Science Center, established in 1998, is a research archive and science museum.

Take your companions to the McWane Science Center, a state-of-the-art museum.

It features four floors of interactive exhibits, a stunning aquarium, a 280-seat IMAX theater, a gift shop, and so much more.

You can find this museum in downtown Birmingham, close to many eateries, stores, and other well-known tourist attractions.

Make time out of your Alabama getaway to tour the McWane Science Center.

Here, you can find an extensive collection of displays that range from the colossal skeleton fossils of prehistoric dinosaurs, to hands-on exhibits on the different science disciplines, and tons more.

There is also an aquarium where you can explore the wonders of our oceans and sea creatures like sharks, jellyfish, and stingrays.

At the IMAX theater, you can travel to the farthest reaches of the planet by watching short films on Antarctica, the depths of the ocean, and so on.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Redmont Hotel Birmingham – Curio Collection by Hilton

22. Point Mallard Park — Decatur

2901 Point Mallard Dr SE Decatur, AL 35602 (256) 341-4900 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Point Mallard Park, roughly 500 acres in size, is a famous Alabama amusement park.

It offers a wide range of activities, facilities, and attractions.

When vacationing with your family and friends at the Heart of Dixie, Point Mallard Park is one of the best places to visit.

This park is the ultimate destination offering you and your travel companions batting cages, a golf course, a water park, campgrounds, and an ice complex.

Enjoy doing multiple activities with your family or friends, like honing your baseball skills at the batting cages, enjoying a relaxing game of golf, learning how to skate at the ice complex, staying overnight at the campgrounds, and so on.

At the water park, you can take a break from the heat by going swimming, going down slides of various lengths and heights, teaching your little ones how to swim, and more.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: DoubleTree by Hilton Decatur Riverfront

23. Cathedral Caverns State Park — Woodville

637 Cave Rd Woodville, AL 35776 (256) 728-8193 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Cathedral Caverns State Park is a natural history reserve and well-known recreation area.

Its main attraction is the Cathedral Caverns, previously known as Bats Cave, a National Natural Landmark.

Go on an adventure by yourself or with your travel buddies at the Cathedral Caverns State Park.

This award-winning state park is ADA accessible and offers many tours for you to choose from, picnic facilities, campsites, and many other amenities for outdoor fun.

The Cathedral Caverns are so beautiful and captivating that two popular movies featured them, the Secrets of the Phantom Caverns and Tom and Huck.

Experience something new and different by going on a guided tour of the Cathedral Caverns.

It allows you to learn about the cave’s history and formations and explore its many sections.

Some of the other activities you can enjoy are hiking through picturesque paths, mining for gems or fossils, nature photography, camping, and many other options.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Red Roof Inn & Suites Scottsboro

24. Bellingrath Gardens — Theodore

12401 Bellingrath Gardens Rd Theodore, AL 36582 (251) 973-2217 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Bellingrath Gardens, found at the heart of Alabama, is gorgeous and awe-inspiring.

It features the former home of Walter and Bessie Bellingrath, a historic house initially built in 1925.

The Bellingrath Gardens are magnificent and feature jaw-dropping floral exhibits that change with the seasons.

Since its opening in 1932, it has become one of the most popular gardens in Alabama.

It is never the same with each visit because with every passing month, it has something stunning to offer you.

Share a wonderful time with your companions as you spend the day exploring the multi-award-winning Bellingrath Gardens.

Here, you can walk through a well-maintained, gorgeously landscaped scenery filled with multiple flowers, plants, trees, and a gentle river.

You can also take a tour of the home, which is now a museum, with a charismatic guide, and learn about the Bellingraths, how the garden came to be, and explore its fifteen different rooms.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection

25. Alligator Alley — Summerdale

19950 Co Rd 71 Summerdale, AL 36580 (251) 946-2483 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Alligator Alley is a swamp sanctuary home to more than two hundred alligators.

It is a tourist hotspot drawing in guests from all walks of life,

Enjoy one of the best things to do in Alabama with your family, significant other, or friends, touring Alligator Alley.

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

Prepare for a thrilling and jaw-dropping experience at Alligator Valley.

Here, you can watch trainers feed the alligators and watch the animals swim in the murky water, sunbathe by the shore, and even get up close and personal with the creatures as you hold a baby gator.

You can also observe other animals at Alligator Alley, such as ospreys, turtles, bullfrogs, and owls.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Home2 Suites By Hilton Foley

Activity Guide 

Comparing attractions: which one is right for you.

It is important that you choose a destination or activity that best suits your desires and needs, like your budget, hobbies, and interests.

The Historical Highlights of Birmingham is the perfect attraction for those seeking a rich, historical experience, but it may not appeal to all ages.

The Alabama Gulf Coast Dolphin Cruise allows you to view the magnificence of dolphins but is weather-dependent.

And the Mobile Carnival Museum lets you experience the wonders of the Mardi Gras festival, albeit having limited galleries.

How I Picked The Activities

I am an avid traveler and have dedicated most of my life to exploring the many states of the US, including Alabama.

I have devoted time and effort to discovering the wonders of Alabama, which is ideal for families, solo travelers, friends, or partners.

I ensured that you have an array of options, perfect for all travel purposes, budgets, and ages.

To help you better plan your vacation, I’ve read countless reviews, spoken with numerous locals, and personally visited the destinations to guarantee an unforgettable experience.

Our Rating Method 

I rate these attractions based on the following criteria: 

• Family-Friendliness: I use this criterion to assess the family-friendly appeal of every activity. Is it suitable for families with kids? Is it safe, engaging, and fun for children? I ask myself these questions in order to rate family-friendliness. 
• Affordability: This is used to evaluate the attraction’s affordability. Will visitors get a lot of bang for their buck? Is it free or cheaper compared to the other options? Does it offer discounted rates, special promotions, or free entry? I consider these factors when rating affordability.
• Accessibility: This evaluates the activity’s accessibility. Is it easily accessible by public transportation? Are there plenty of parking spaces available? Is it wheelchair accessible? I ask myself these questions when assessing the attraction’s accessibility.
• Fun Factor: I use this to evaluate how enjoyable the attraction is for visitors. Will it create positive and memorable experiences? Is it engaging, fun, and exciting? I use these questions to evaluate this criterion. 
• Educational Value: This assesses the educational benefits of the activity. Does it provide learning opportunities to kids? Will it teach visitors lessons in science and history? I ask myself these important questions when rating educational value. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there anything worth seeing in alabama.

Yes. Montgomery, Gulf Shores, and Orange Beach, Dauphin Island – Fort Gaines, and Maine.

What Is Alabama Best Known For?

Alabama is famous for its Southern hospitality and being the birthplace of the Civil Rights Movement.

What Is Most Popular In Alabama?

The US Space and Rocket Center, the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, and the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park.

All of the attractions and fun activities are the best things to do in Alabama for a memorable vacation.

They each offer a differentiated experience that caters to your every budget and travel purpose.

When we set foot on the Alabama Gulf Coast for the Dolphin Cruise, I was in awe. 

Seeing those majestic creatures leap and play in the water was pure magic. 

I still remember how my children’s faces lit up, their squeals of delight echoing over the waves. 

We laughed, snapped photos, and shared a moment that will forever be etched in our memories.

You can have an unforgettable historically rich experience at the Mobile Carnival Museum, where you can discover the grandeur of the Mardi Gras festival.

My family also loved our quick stop at the Muscle Shoals Sound Studio, where we got to be in the same room that once hosted icons in the music industry.

But nothing beats learning about local history by signing up for the Historical Highlights of Birmingham, where you can explore several attractions.

When I took my kiddos on that tour, we were swept up in the stories of past times.

Aside from that, we also got to visit Rickwood Field Park.

Although it is the oldest baseball park in the country, the establishment looked well-maintained when we watched a tournament there.

This tour also offers tasty snacks and beverages, something my kids personally enjoyed, and a charismatic guide ready to make your experience more engaging.

15 Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Montgomery, AL

Written by Lura Seavey and Lana Law Updated Dec 26, 2023

Montgomery, capital of Alabama, lies in the center of the state on the east bank of the Alabama River. There are a wide range of things to see, including family attractions like the Montgomery Zoo and the unique cow-themed MOOseum. Montgomery's history is one of its most remarkable features, however, and should not be missed whether you are looking for things to do this weekend or planning a vacation itinerary in Montgomery.

Considered by many as the birthplace of the Civil Rights Movement, Montgomery's historic attractions can be found throughout the city. From 1954 through 1960, a young Martin Luther King, Jr. served as pastor for a Baptist Church on Dexter Avenue, a building which became the gathering place for early civil rights activists.

In 1955, Rosa Parks started a nationwide movement when she sat in the whites-only section of a segregated Montgomery public bus, and in 1961, the Freedom Riders made history at the city's Greyhound bus station. In addition to having several landmarks on the Civil Rights Trail,

Montgomery is home to multiple memorials and museums that examine the area's own past, as well as the Civil Rights Movement on a national scale. Learn more about the city's history and find the best places to visit with our list of the top attractions in Montgomery.

Visit the Civil Rights Memorial

Walk in dr. king's footsteps at the dexter avenue king memorial baptist church and the dexter parsonage museum, montgomery museum of fine arts, rosa parks library and museum, hank williams museum, visit the montgomery zoo, explore old alabama town, the mooseum, freedom rides museum, tour the alabama state capitol, alabama state archives and history museum, visit the national memorial for peace and justice, the legacy museum, relax at riverfront park, alabama safari park, map of attractions & things to do in montgomery, al, montgomery, al - climate chart.

The Civil Rights Memorial sits across the street from the Southern Poverty Law Center offices, commemorating those who died during the Civil Rights Movement. The memorial is surrounded by a curving black granite wall with the words "until justice rolls down like waters and righteousness like a mighty stream" scrolled across.

Below the wall is a black granite disc with water flowing over the surface, which is engraved with the names of those who lost their lives in the fight for civil rights. The memorial is located in an open area next to the Civil Rights Memorial Center .

Here, tourists will find a variety of exhibits and educational displays, as well as the Wall of Tolerance, which displays the names of visitors who have pledged to work toward tolerance and justice. Visitors may add their own names to the list, which is displayed digitally on the wall of the memorial center.

Address: 400 Washington Avenue, Montgomery, Alabama

Official site: www.splcenter.org/civil-rights-memorial

The Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church was founded in 1877 on the site of a slave trader's pen. Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr served as pastor here from 1954 through 1960, and a mural inside the church features Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr's journey from Montgomery to Memphis.

King and his family lived in the church's nine-room parsonage during his tenure, and it now houses the Dexter Parsonage Museum. The home, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, has been restored to what it was like during the Kings' residence, including a significant amount of the original furnishings.

The museum also houses an interpretive center with photographs, exhibits, and timelines, which discuss the civil rights movement in Montgomery and the involvement of the church ministers and members. Behind the museum sits the King-Johns Garden for Reflection , a space set aside for meditation and reflection.

Address: 454 Dexter Avenue, Montgomery, Alabama

Official site: www.dexterkingmemorial.org/tours/parsonage-museum

The Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts has a permanent collection of more than 4,000 works, the majority of which are examples of American art from the 1700s through the present. Among these, there is an extensive collection of fragile paper-based artwork including drawings, watercolors, etchings, woodcuts, and engravings by prominent American artists like Winslow Homer and John Marin.

Also within the American art collection is an exhibit of regional art, focusing on folk artists and self-taught artists, incuding paintings, drawings, and crafts, with a large quilt collection. In addition to the American art, the museum houses various examples of European art, as well as a collection of African art, which includes sculpture, furniture, textiles, and masks.

Another highlight of the museum is its decorative arts gallery, with several examples of domestic and imported porcelain, and the Weil Atrium Gallery, which houses glassworks from various celebrated glassblowers including Dale Chihuly and Tiffany Studios. The museum also hosts traveling exhibitions and educational programs.

Address: One Museum Drive, Montgomery, Alabama

Official site: http://mmfa.org/

The Rosa Parks Library and Museum is located in downtown Montgomery near the site of her arrest after her legendary stand against segregation. Among the historic artifacts on display are a 1955 Montgomery city bus and one of the station wagons used by the boycotters during their movement to end segregation on public transportation.

Other exhibits include photographs, court documents, and even Rosa's original fingerprint record from her arrest. Visitors will learn about the social and political climate of 1950s Montgomery and will be moved as they hear the personal stories of the Montgomery Bus Boycott and other important moments in Civil Rights history. The museum also hosts special events, educational programs, and traveling exhibits throughout the year.

Address: 252 Montgomery Street, Montgomery, Alabama

Official site: www.troy.edu/rosaparks

The Hank Williams Museum in downtown Montgomery commemorates one of country music's most famous stars. Visitors can view the museum's extensive collection of Hank's personal belongings, including his powder-blue 1952 Cadillac; a Steinway piano; two Gibson guitars; and a large collection of his clothing, from his first childhood cowboy boots to his stage attire.

Other personal items include artwork from his home, musical instruments, and everyday items like his shaving kit and shoe-shine kit. Memorabilia includes a variety of awards, including Platinum Records, as well as sheet music, autographed vinyl records, and photographs.

Also in Montgomery, the Hank Williams Memorial at Oakwood Annex Cemetery is the singer's final resting place, along with his wife and other family members. The grave site is located on Commerce Street and is a popular tourist destination for country music fans.

Address: 118 Commerce Street, Montgomery, Alabama

Official site: http://thehankwilliamsmuseum.net/

Montgomery Zoo is a particularly popular Montgomery attraction for families, full of a wide variety of animals from all over the world. The Australian habitat is home to some of the continent's most famous residents, including kangaroos and wallabies. Visitors will find several African animals as well, including cheetahs, elephants, hippos, and giraffes, while Asian residents include the endangered Sumatran tiger and Indian rhino.

The South American exhibit includes the emerald tree boa, Chilean flamingo, a wide variety of frogs, and the endangered golden lion tamarin. There is also a North American area with bald eagles, bison, and black bear, as well as a petting zoo where kids can feed the African pygmy goats.

There are several opportunities to get up close to the animals, the most popular being the giraffe exhibit, where you can get face-to-face with these graceful giants and hand feed them. Visitors can also watch zookeepers conduct a lion training session, get to know the zoo's three African elephants at the elephant keeper talk, and walk among birds in Parakeet Cove and the South American Flight Aviary.

Those who don't mind taxidermy will also be interested in the Mann Wildlife and Learning Museum , which has lifelike displays depicting a variety of animals in their natural habitats.

Address: 2301 Coliseum Parkway, Montgomery, Alabama

Official site: www.montgomeryzoo.com

Old Alabama Town is a series of more than 50 historic homes and buildings in historic downtown Montgomery, which have been restored to their original state and are open to the public for touring. Each property has been authentically furnished and outfitted to represent life in 19th- and early 20th-century Alabama, and interpreters are available throughout the neighborhood to answer questions.

The centerpiece of the buildings is the Ordeman House , and admission includes a guided tour of this home, as well as a map and guide to the remaining properties. Among other remarkable buildings are the 1895 Adams Chapel School; the 1892 Corner Grocery Store; and the stunning Ware-Farley-Hood House, which was built around 1850.

Address: 301 Columbus Street, Montgomery, Alabama

A visit to the MOOseum is one of the more unique things to do in Montgomery, especially popular with younger children. Here, visitors will learn all about Alabama's cattle industry, from its start in 1495 to the present-day, through timelines, history exhibits, and video presentations.

You can learn all about cows, from their breeds and complex digestive system to the food and products they produce. Kids can dress up as cowboys and cowgirls in the play arena and learn about beef and food safety in Slim's Kitchen. Another highlight is the "Beef Wagon," a popular place for family photo-ops.

Address: 201 South Bainbridge Street, Montgomery, Alabama

Official site: www.bamabeef.org/p/about/273

The Freedom Rides Museum is located at the former Montgomery Greyhound station, where history was made as the Freedom Riders got off their bus on May 20th, 1961. The station has been restored to appear as it was in 1961 and houses a modest collection of exhibits about the movement that eventually succeeded in ending segregation on public transportation.

Exhibits include photographs, documents, and biographies of each of the brave young men and women who were part of the momentous statement. The museum is an official stop on the U.S. Civil Rights Trail.

Address: 210 South Court Street, Montgomery, Alabama

Official site: ahc.alabama.gov/properties/freedomrides/freedomrides.aspx

The State Capitol building in Montgomery was rebuilt in Greek Revival style after the original was destroyed by a fire in 1850. This historic building served as both the state Capitol and the Capitol of the Confederacy during the Civil War and was later the backdrop for one of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s most famous speeches, delivered at the end of the Selma to Montgomery March for voting rights.

Both a National Historic Landmark and a U.S. Civil Rights Trail destination, the capitol building is now a working museum. Visitors can tour the Senate and Old Supreme Court Chambers, the House of Representatives, and the Rotunda. Highlights include historic murals in the Rotunda and trompe l'oeil paintings on the ceiling of the Senate Chamber, as well as the gardens and statues that adorn the five-acre grounds.

Address: 600 Dexter Avenue, Montgomery, Alabama

Official site: https://ahc.alabama.gov/alabama-state-capitol.aspx

The State Archives and History Museum explores the history of Alabama through artifacts and historic documents. Artifacts include Native American and pioneer artifacts, as well as a selection of Civil War items, including regimental flags and portrait galleries. In addition, multimedia presentations expand on various moments in Alabama history and explore broader topics like the cotton industry and civil rights.

The State Archives in Montgomery was founded in 1901 as the first state archival agency in the nation. This turn-of-the-century building features marble walls and staircases of Tennessee gray marble and Alabama white marble. The second floor of the archives is a room dedicated to former Vice President William Rufus King. The room displays King's personal furniture, silver, china, and some of this clothing. Documents on display allow visitors a glimpse of this fascinating man and the period in which he lived.

Address: 624 Washington Ave, Montgomery, Alabama

Official site: http://archives.state.al.us/

About a 15-minute walk from the Legacy Museum is the newly unveiled National Memorial for Peace and Justice, the first memorial in the nation to be made in memory of the African Americans who were affected by slavery, lynchings, and racial injustice. This memorial, covering a total of six acres, includes sculptures, monuments, and artwork, which honor major figures in the Civil Rights movement.

Perhaps the most impactful statement is the field of 800 monuments, each representing a county where lynchings occurred, and each engraved with the names of the known victims. These monuments are waiting to be claimed by their respective counties in hopes that acknowledgement of a dark past will lead to a brighter future.

Address: 417 Caroline Street, Montgomery, Alabama

The Legacy Museum is dedicated to preserving the history of racial injustice and bringing its many aspects into the public awareness. The museum is located on the spot where thousands of slaves were once warehoused while awaiting their unknown fates, within walking distance of the city's former slave auction site and the rail station that supported the slave trade.

The museum utilizes a variety of media to discuss how slavery, segregation, lynching, and modern issues of racial profiling and mass incarceration have shaped the nation's history and present. Among its most compelling exhibits are the personal narratives of African Americans who have been subjected to injustice, and the hundreds of sculptures depicting their struggles. There are also major exhibits dedicated to specific issues, including the economics of slavery, life in the Jim Crow south, voting rights, and other topics.

The museum is fully accessible to those with mobility issues.

Address: 400 North Court Street, Montgomery, Alabama

Official site: museumandmemorial.eji.org

Montgomery's Riverfront Park is an excellent place to find entertainment and activities for the entire family. One of the most popular activities here is a ride on the Harriott II Riverboat , a 19 th -century passenger boat that provides scenic cruises, as well as dinner cruises featuring live music and dancing.

The riverboat is docked next to the Riverfront Amphitheater , a lovely open-air venue that overlooks the water and hosts a variety of free entertainment, including musical and theatrical performances. Next to the amphitheater is a good-sized Splashpad where kids (and anyone else) can cool off on a hot Alabama day.

Also part of the park is Riverwalk Stadium , a baseball park that is home to the Montgomery Biscuits of the Southern League. Parts of the structure incorporate buildings from the former historic train station, and there is also a children's playground on-site.

Address: 355 Commerce Street, Montgomery, Alabama

Official site: www.funinmontgomery.com

Located about 20 minutes from the city, this 350-acre park provides a unique experience for all ages. Visitors can explore the park from the comfort of their own vehicle, traveling over three miles of road to see wildlife roaming free in their own environment. Guests are permitted to feed the animals using the park's special dietary grains.

Among the park's residents are a variety of large mammals and birds from around the world, including many native to Africa. Exotic residents include zebras, camels, gazelles, water buffalo, Watusi cattle, and emus. The park is also home to deer, llamas, and other domestic wildlife.

A highlight of the park is the opportunity to hand-feed giraffes lettuce leaves, getting up-close to the animals. Guests can also hand-feed the birds in the park's free flight aviary, a unique opportunity to interact with hundreds of friendly budgies. There is also a petting area where kids can feed and pet goats and pigs.

Admission fees are used not only for the park but to help expand public education, fund habitat preservation, and assist captive breeding programs that help sustain populations of rare and endangered animals.

Address: 1664 Venable Road, Hope Hull, Alabama

Official site: www.alabamasafaripark.com

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Exploring Alabama: Montgomery is home to some of Alabama's top tourist attractions , but there is plenty more to see in this southern state. Just an hour-and-a-half drive to the north, Birmingham has a variety of popular attractions , from important civil rights landmarks like the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church to family favorites like the McWane Science Center. Tourists will also find plenty to see and do in Mobile , Alabama's largest coastal city. Mobile is known for its maritime history and lively cultural scene, home to the oldest Mardi Gras celebration in the nation.

Civil Rights Landmarks and Attractions: Alabama is home to several stops on the Civil Rights Trail, as are its neighboring states. Tourists can take an easy day trip from Montgomery to see the sites of Atlanta including the Martin Luther King, Jr. Birth Home and National Historic Park, the King Center, and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights.

A longer drive from Montgomery but a straight shot on the highway, Jackson, Mississippi offers the chance to see several more historic civil rights sites. Among Jackson's many popular attractions, tourists will find the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum, the Medgar Evers Home Museum, and the Mississippi Freedom Trail.

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