Alabama Travel Guide

Planning to visit Alabama? Check out this comprehensive guide for the top places to visit, activities to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Alabama

Alabama is a state located in the Southern region of the United States of America. It is known for its rich history, diverse culture, delicious food, and stunning natural beauty. Alabama is home to many famous musicians and writers, including Hank Williams Sr., Harper Lee, and Fannie Flagg. The state is also famous for its Civil Rights Movement, with the city of Montgomery playing a key role.

List of Places to Visit in Alabama

Alabama has countless attractions to offer, ranging from cultural and historical landmarks to natural wonders and outdoor adventures. Here are some of the must-visit places in Alabama:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Birmingham Civil Rights Institute: Learn about the United States’ Civil Rights Movement and the role Birmingham played.
  • USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park: Experience what life was like for sailors during WWII.
  • The Birmingham Museum of Art: View over 27,000 objects consisting of paintings, sculptures, and artifacts from cultures around the world.
  • The National Museum of the United States Air Force: A premier showcase of aircraft, exhibitions, and research materials tracing the history of aviation.
  • The Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts: Features a large collection of 19th and 20th-century American paintings and sculptures.

Natural Attractions of Alabama: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Gulf Shores: Visit the many beaches of southern Alabama along the Gulf Coast.
  • Little River Canyon National Preserve: Check out the spectacular views from the top of the canyon.
  • Cheaha State Park: This state park is ideal for hiking, fishing, and camping.
  • Noccalula Falls Park: Experience the beauty of Noccalula Falls and hike one of the many trails in the park.
  • Alabama Wildlife Center: See various types of animals, including animals that have been hurt or orphaned.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Alabama

Alabama is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. With miles of forest, water, and mountains, there are plenty of opportunities to hike and bike. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in Alabama:

  • Lower Rocket Trail: A 7-mile trail on the shores of Lake Logan Martin.
  • Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail: A trail spanning 15 miles in Gulf State Park perfect for hiking and biking.
  • The Chief Ladiga Trail: A 33-mile passageway through Alabama’s beauty.

Best Things to Do in Alabama: Activities and Tours

Alabama has a wide range of activities to offer, from guided tours to adrenaline-pumping adventures. Here are some of the best things to do in Alabama:

  • Tour the U.S. Space & Rocket Center: See authentic space vehicles, memorabilia, and exhibits. Of course, you can’t forget the IMAX movies too.
  • Zip line at Red Mountain Park: Glide above the treetops and zip down six different zip lines.
  • Visit the Peach Park: Sample various souvenirs here at the Peach Park, from peach ice cream to peach cobbler.
  • Explore the Cheaha Skyway: The most beautiful drive in Alabama.
  • Experience Alabama with a Southern-style dinner cruise.

Week-Long Itinerary for Alabama

Alabama has a lot to offer its visitors, and it can be challenging to see everything in one trip. Here’s an itinerary for spending a week in Alabama:

Day 1 Visit the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute
Day 2 Hike at Noccalula Falls Park
Day 3 Drive through and explore Little River Canyon
Day 4 Tour the U.S. Space & Rocket Center
Day 5 Go to the beaches of Gulf Shores
Day 6 Take a day trip to Cheaha State Park
Day 7 Have dinner at a fancy restaurant

Food and Drink Scene of Alabama

Alabama has a diverse food scene, influenced by its diverse culture and history. Southern comfort food, dinner plates, and fresh seafood dominate most menus. Here are some local dishes and beverages you must try:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fried Chicken: One of the most popular dishes in Alabama.
  • Biscuits and Gravy: A breakfast staple in Alabama, making it a great start to the day.
  • BBQ: Alabama is famous for its cave-style barbeque, so make sure to try some.
  • Fried catfish and shrimp fritters: Alabama’s Gulf Coast is a seafood paradise.

Local Beverages

  • Sweet Tea: A ubiquitous drink in Alabama, taste it to find out why it’s a delicacy here.
  • Conecuh Ridge Whiskey: Sip on some whiskey first distilled over 150 years ago on Conecuh Ridge.
  • Craft Beer: Alabama’s craft beer scene is booming, so check out some local breweries.

Where to Stay in Alabama: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Alabama has many lodging options catering to various budgets, ranging from luxurious hotels to cozy B&Bs. Here are some of the best places to stay in Alabama:

  • Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa: Located in the center of Montgomery, this hotel has a full-service spa and a rooftop lounge.
  • The Grand Hotel, Autograph Collection: This resort in Point Clear sits on Mobile Bay.
  • Redmont Hotel: This boutique hotel located in Birmingham has a rooftop terrace and is close to all of the city’s attractions.
  • Sonesta ES Suites Birmingham: Located in downtown Montgomery, this hotel is perfect for an extended stay.
  • Azelea Inn & Villas: A charming and budget-friendly B&B in Mobile.

What to Buy in Alabama: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Alabama is famous for its Southern hospitality and culture. Here are some souvenirs and local products you bring back as a memory:

  • Boll Weevil Soap Company soap products.
  • Sweet treats, including honey, syrup, and marmalades, such as watermelon rind preserves.
  • American-made guitars from the Southern Music Company.
  • Handmade glass ornaments from Orbix.

Local Culture and Customs of Alabama

Alabama has a unique and diverse culture that visitors can’t miss. With a rich history and Southern hospitality, the locals are happy to give you a warm welcome. Some customs you may encounter include:

  • Southern Hospitality: Expect friendly open welcome from strangers wherever you go in Alabama.
  • Barbeque: It’s not just food for enjoying it with friends and family, it’s a way of life.
  • Festivals: Alabama hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including the National Shrimp Festival and the Alabama Coastal BirdFest.

Best Time to Visit Alabama

Alabama has a warm and sunny climate. Therefore, the best time to visit Alabama is during spring and fall. March through May and September to November are the best months to plan a visit to Alabama.

Do’s and Don’ts of Alabama

Do:

  • Try local Southern cuisine and beverages.
  • Drive through scenic roads to witness diverse landscapes.
  • Explore local parks and trails.
  • Visit Civil Rights landmarks like the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute.
  • Be respectful towards Alabama’s diverse culture and history.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or violate the state’s natural beauty.
  • Wear revealing clothes when visiting landmarks or mosques.
  • Don’t be disrespectful to locals, and it is vital to acknowledge their traditions and cultures.

Safety and Health

Safety in Alabama

Alabama is generally a safe place to visit. However, it is still recommended that visitors take necessary precautions, like staying alert to their surroundings and avoiding high crime areas.

Health in Alabama

Before traveling to Alabama, travelers should have updated information regarding the state’s health facilities. Medical insurance should be purchased. If needed, medical facilities and medication should be researched to ensure you stay healthy while in Alabama.

Getting to Alabama: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Alabama

  • Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport
  • Huntsville International-Carl T. Jones Field
  • Mobile Regional Airport

Bus Stations Near Alabama

  • Greyhound Station in Montgomery
  • Greyhound Station in Birmingham
  • Greyhound Station in Huntsville

Other Options

  • Driving or renting a car is the most preferred option for getting around.
  • Alabama is accessible by Amtrak trains along certain routes.
  • Some regional public transport is available within cities.

How to Get Around in Alabama

Alabama is best explored by car. Apart from driving, there are other transport options available, including rental cars, taxis, and buses. Walking and biking are also popular options in urban areas.

Where to Go Next from Alabama: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re planning to continue your journey after Alabama, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • New Orleans, Louisiana: Explore the French Quarter, hit up the jazz clubs, and eat some delicious Cajun cuisine.
  • Atlanta, Georgia: Visit historical landmarks and the World of Coca-Cola museum.
  • Memphis, Tennessee: Take a tour or visit the home of Elvis Presley for the day.
  • Destin, Florida: Lounge on the Gulf of Mexico’s finest beaches.

Conclusion

There are countless reasons to visit Alabama, from its rich history and culture, must-visit tourist spots, and diverse cuisine, to its stunning natural beauty and outdoor adventures. With so much to offer, Alabama is the perfect vacation destination for any traveler. Whether for a weekend getaway or week-long trip, Alabama has something for everyone.

The Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma has been the scene of historic marches for civil rights and is especially famous as the site of an assault on civil rights marchers attempting to march to Montgomery in 1965 The Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma has been the scene of historic marches for civil rights and is especially famous as the site of an assault on civil rights marchers attempting to march to Montgomery in 1965 Seasoned crab claws and corn. Seasoned crab claws and corn.


    Gulf Coast
    Metropolitan Alabama
    Mountains
    River Heritage