Cullman Travel Guide

Explore the culturally rich and naturally beautiful city of Cullman, Alabama. Our travel guide provides everything you need to know including places to visit, must-try dishes, and transportation options.


Introduction to Cullman

Nestled in the mountains of Alabama, Cullman is a city known for its abundance of outdoor activities, historic sites, and vibrant culture. Founded in 1873 by German immigrants, this charming city is located in the heartland of the South, and it has a rich history that has influenced its unique culture.

In this comprehensive tour guide for Cullman, we will take you through the must-visit places of the city, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and much more.

List of Places to Visit in Cullman

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Cullman County Museum - Explore the history of Cullman through diverse exhibits ranging from pre-Civil War times to the present day.

  2. Ave Maria Grotto - Visit miniature replicas of famous religious sites throughout the country, handcrafted by Brother Joseph Zoettl, a Benedictine monk.

  3. Clarkson Covered Bridge - Built-in 1904, this historic bridge is the county’s oldest standing covered bridge that is still open to traffic.

  4. Point Mallard Park - A recreational park that offers a plethora of activities such as golf, paddleboats, fishing, and aquatic centers.

Natural Attractions of Cullman: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Hurricane Creek Park - A serene hiking spot featuring a waterfall, a natural arch, and various trails.

  2. Smith Lake - A picturesque spot for swimming, boating, and fishing.

  3. Stony Lonesome OHV Park - A perfect destination for off-road enthusiasts to explore trails and ditches.

  4. Cullman Wellness and Aquatic Center - A fun and relaxing place to cool off and exercise

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cullman

  1. The Bat Tunnel Trail - This 2.4-mile trail starts at Heritage Park, passes through a historic bat tunnel, and leads you through the scenic views of the city.

  2. Duck River Reservoir Trail - A moderately easy 3.5-mile trail that encircles the Duck River Reservoir and offers fantastic bird-watching opportunities.

  3. Clark Hill - This 3.2-mile trail provides breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Best Things to Do in Cullman: Activities and Tours

  1. The Cullman Oktoberfest - A lively annual German festival featuring live music, traditional foods, and beer.

  2. The Rock the South Music Festival - A music festival that features a wide range of artists and plenty of food and drinks.

Week-Long Itinerary for Cullman

Here’s a seven-day itinerary to explore everything Cullman has to offer:

Day 1 - Visit Cullman County Museum and try some of the best local dishes at Carlton’s Italian Restaurant

Day 2 - Go for a hike at Hurricane Creek Park and then have lunch at Rumors Deli

Day 3 - Take a bike ride on the Bat Tunnel Trail and visit the Ave Maria Grotto in the afternoon

Day 4 - Explore the historical Clarkson Covered Bridge, and afterward stop by Berkeley Bob’s Coffee House for a quick cup of coffee

Day 5 - Visit Point Mallard Park and relax by the lake. In the evening, catch a movie at the Cullman 10 Cinemas

Day 6 - Rent a kayak and paddle to the Shoal Creek Waterfall, followed by dinner at Grumpy’s

Day 7 - Relax at the Cullman Wellness and Aquatic Center, and end your day with a drink at the Goat Island Brewing Company

Food and Drink Scene of Cullman

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Carlson’s famous pizza - An Italian-style pizza famous in the city.

  2. Po’Boys - A classic New Orleans sandwich stuffed with seafood, roast beef, or fried chicken.

  3. Alabama-style barbecue - The BBQ sauce is a unique blend of vinegar and mustard that gives it a tangy flavor.

Local Beverages

  1. Goat Island Brewing - The first brewery in the city, it offers an extensive selection of beers.

  2. Busy Bee Cafe - A local favorite, the cafe serves delicious coffee and espresso drinks.

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

  1. Hampton Inn Cullman - A cozy hotel located in the heart of the city.

  2. Comfort Suites - A hotel that offers spacious rooms and an indoor pool.

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

  1. German-inspired goods - You can find unique German-inspired souvenirs such as steins, beer mugs, and trays.

  2. Locally made jams and jellies - Stock up on locally made preserves, such as apple butter or blackberry jam.

Local Culture and Customs of Cullman

The city has a rich German heritage, evident through the many German-inspired festivities and delicacies. It is also a deeply religious community with a friendly, welcoming culture. Be sure to respect local customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Cullman

The best times to visit Cullman are during the spring and fall months, when the weather is mild, comfortable, and perfect for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cullman

Do:

  1. Be respectful to locals in dress and behavior.

  2. Explore the town’s history and try some of the best local foods.

Don’t:

  1. Don’t litter the city’s natural areas.

  2. Don’t ignore the city’s southern hospitality.

Safety and Health

Safety in Cullman

Cullman is generally safe, however, it is always a good idea to take precautions, such as locking your car and doors and be alert in unfamiliar neighborhoods.

Health in Cullman

Be sure to drink plenty of water, use sunscreen during the summer months, and bring warm clothing during the winter months.

Getting to Cullman: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Cullman

The nearest airport to Cullman is Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport, which is located approximately 40 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Cullman

Cullman has its own Greyhound station situated downtown.

Other Options

Renting a car or getting a taxi from the many car rental companies or taxis around the city is also an option.

How to Get Around in Cullman

The best way to get around in Cullman is by car, although there are bike rentals and walkability in select areas.

Where to Go Next from Cullman: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Birmingham - Alabama’s largest city, it boasts impressive museums, nightlife, and restaurants. It’s just an hour away from Cullman.

  2. Huntsville - Known for its space center and science museums, it is just an hour’s drive north of Cullman.

Conclusion

Cullman is a city that has something to offer everyone. From historic sites and scenic views to excellent cuisine and outdoor activities, this city located in the mountains of Alabama should definitely be on your travel list.