northwest alabama tourism

The area of northwestern Alabama known as The Shoals is home to several well-known Alabama attractions. Tuscumbia is Helen Keller’s birthplace and home, Sheffield is home to the Muscle Shoals Sound Studio and Florence is a beautiful river city with a rich history. There is also a wide variety of outdoor recreation to enjoy at Pickwick Lake, Wheeler Lake, Wilson Lake and Coldwater Falls.

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Joe wheeler state park lodge, brush creek park, coldwater inn, lagrange b & b log cabin, economy inn, holiday inn express, microtel inn & suites by wyndham tuscumbia/muscle shoals, comfort suites, best western plus tuscumbia/muscle shoals hotel & suites, clarion inn sheffield muscle shoals, what to see & do, alabama music hall of fame, lagrange college site park & antebellum cemetery, kennedy-douglass center for the arts, tuscumbia depot and roundhouse, joe wheeler state park, pickwick lake, general andrew jackson black walnut tree, tva reservation, florence harbor marina, where to eat, milla's place, ricatoni's italian grill, smokin' on the boulevard, brooks bar-b-que, singin' river brewing co., bunyan's bar-b-q, turbo coffee, bishop's barbecue, #sweethomealabama.

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10 Top Things to Do in Huntsville and North Alabama

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While Birmingham often steals the spotlight for those planning a trip to Alabama, the northern portion of the state, roughly 90-minutes away, is definitely worth visiting as well. This is especially true of Huntsville, a city located on the border of Alabama and Tennessee, home to plenty of attractions including the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament , and an interesting retail center called Unclaimed Baggage, where you can shop for suitcases and other items people have left behind on airplanes. For an easy Southern escape, consider Huntsville and the intriguing Northern Alabama region as your next vacation destination.

Trek to Waterfalls at Monte Sano State Park

Bill Boehm / Getty Images

Whether you're visiting Northern Alabama as part of a larger road trip across the Deep South or are simply seeking some time in the outdoors, Monte Sano State Park is a great place to unwind in nature. The 2,140-acre green space, part of the Land Trust of North Alabama, is just a 15-minute drive from Huntsville, and sports scenic mountaintop views, waterfalls, campsites, primitive campgrounds, a camp store, rustic-style cabins, and 20 miles of hiking and cycling trails. Visit in the fall to watch the leaves change color or in spring to see the azaleas in all their blooming glory.

Visit the EarlyWorks Children's Museum

EarlyWorks Children's Museum

If you're traveling with little ones in tow, head to Huntsville's EarlyWorks Children's Museum , part of the EarlyWorks Family of Museums, which includes Alabama Constitution Hall Park and the Huntsville Historic Depot. Learn about the history of African American culture in Alabama at the Passages exhibit and mural, listen to stories about the area's earliest Native American inhabitants and inventor George Washington Carver from the Talking Tree, then check out the 46-foot keelboat exhibit to see how folks traveled down the river in the 1800s. Other hands-on activities and interactive displays let kids get creative with building blocks, play with pulleys and circuits, and hone their motor skills.

Geek Out at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center

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The U.S. Space and Rocket Center is a must-see for first-time visitors to Huntsville . Not many cities in the United States can put on a display as grand as the Saturn V rocket standing outside the Space Museum, and there's plenty to discover inside Shuttle Park, Rocket Park, and the Davidson Center for Space Exploration.

Children ages 11 and under can be enrolled in Space Camp , an immersive five-night session where they can experience the Intuitive Planetarium, take part in STEAM activities, and conduct hands-on experiments in space exploration, among other educational activities. For older kids, Space Academy is a similar experience available for ages 12–14, while those ages 15–18 can sign up for Advanced Space Academy or Advanced Space Academy Elite, each offering more in-depth experiences in engineering, science, math, technology, and other astronaut training activities.

Stroll Through Huntsville Botanical Garden

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Huntsville Botanical Garden , located just a few short miles from the U.S. Space and Rocket Center, is home to 112 acres of meadows, wetlands, forests, collections of native plants, and special gardens to explore all year long. Although May and October are the best months for viewing the flowers and plants, December brings the holiday season and the Galaxy of Lights installation, a brilliant display of more than one million Christmas lights set throughout the gardens. Don't miss the Purdy Butterfly House, typically open June through September, with hundreds of butterflies fluttering about in open-air atriums.

Shop for Unclaimed Baggage in Scottsboro

Unclaimed Baggage Center

Oprah Winfrey once called Unclaimed Baggage in Scottsboro "the best-kept shopping secret in America." Just 45 minutes from Huntsville, it also makes a great day trip. Browse collections of clothing, suitcases, jewelry, books, and other items people have somehow left behind or lost in transit. Known as the only store in America where you can buy and sell unclaimed luggage from the airlines, this unique shopping center has become a top tourist destination, attracting nearly one million visitors annually.

Venture Up to Burritt on the Mountain

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Learn about the history of Huntsville and the Tennessee Valley at Burritt on the Mountain , just a 10-minute drive from the town center. Not only does this open-air museum offer amazing views of the city from its hilltop perch, it's also home to a park, several log cabins and restored houses from the 19th century, and the historic mansion of its original owner, local physician William Burritt. Visit to get an in-depth look at how people lived in the area during the mid- to late-1800s, relax in the park, see the farm animals, or hike the estate's scenic nature trails.

Check Out Cathedral Caverns State Park

 Alabama State Parks

For an interesting underground day trip, head to  Cathedral Caverns State Park , located about 40 minutes from Huntsville between Grant and Woodville. This cave system currently holds seven world records, including widest cave entrance (at 25 feet tall and 128 feet wide) and largest stalagmite, Goliath, which measures 45 feet tall and 243 feet in circumference. You'll also find a large flowstone waterfall, a huge cavern called the Big Room, and Mystery River, which flows through the cavern. Archaeologists have also turned up a number of Native American artifacts dating back to as early as 7,000 B.C.

Pay Homage to Hellen Keller at Her Birthplace

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Born in Tuscumbia, Alabama, Helen Keller was the first deaf and blind person to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in the United States. The inspiring story of how Anne Sullivan taught her to understand and speak English is somewhat of an American legend and was most notably portrayed in the film "The Miracle Worker." If you're in Huntsville, consider doing a day trip to Tuscumbia, roughly 90-minutes away, to learn about Helen Keller's early life at Ivy Green , her birthplace and childhood home. For a real treat, visit in June or July and catch a performance of "The Miracle Worker" in the backyard of the house where the famous story actually took place.

Admire Ave Maria Grotto

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About an hour outside Huntsville, the Ave Maria Grotto in Cullman, Alabama, is the ingenious work of Brother Joseph Zoetl, the German monk who founded St. Bernard Abbey (the Benedictine monastery where Ave Maria Grotto is located) and lived there for more than 70 years. Come to see the amazingly accurate architectural miniatures of shrines throughout the world set in the beautiful Alabama hillside. Pack a picnic lunch and plan to spend the whole day wandering the four-acre park.

See the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament

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Located in Hanceville, Alabama, about an hour and 15 minute drive from Huntsville, the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament is a beautiful place that's open to people of all faiths, whether you're religious or just want to explore your spiritual side. Situated on 400 acres of stunning farmland in the Alabama countryside, Our Lady of the Angels Monastery and its famous shrine are officially consecrated Franciscan pilgrimage sites, and where founder Mother Angelica constructed a magnificent shrine of gold, marble, and cedar in a similar style to the Franciscan monasteries you'd find in Europe. Come to celebrate mass in this sacred space or simply to admire an exquisite example of Romanesque–Gothic architecture.

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My 7 Favorite Stops On A North Alabama Road Trip

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I claim as my own personal stomping grounds the portion of Alabama from north of Birmingham to the Tennessee state line and from the eastern edge of Mississippi to the western edge of Georgia. Having lived in this area for more than 50 years, I believe I speak the language, understand the culture, and possess the carefully developed culinary preferences necessary to truly appreciate my heartland. One of my passions is encouraging visitors to love it almost as much as I do, and with its generally mild temperate climate, any time is a good time in North Alabama. If you will be traveling Interstate 65 North with a few days (or a few hours) to spend exploring, here are some of my top suggestions starting outside of Birmingham and moving north.

1. Attalla 

Attalla can be reached easiest by taking Interstate 59 North coming out of Birmingham. Tigers for Tomorrow on Untamed Mountain is a rescue zoo for exotics where the animals are brought in from undesirable circumstances and given forever homes. The facilities, hours of operation, and strict rules for visitors are all designed for the well-being of the tigers, lions, bears, wolves, cougars, and other animals who live there. Plus, it is an educational tool for raising awareness of the needs and habits of these animals. Be sure to check the website before you visit because the hours change according to the seasons.

Pro Tip: A wonderful place for dinner Wednesday through Saturday and lunch on Saturday is Bootsie’s at 411 4th Street NW. This is a family-owned, family-operated eatery with amazing ribs, pulled pork, and burgers. 

2. Cullman 

From Attalla, head west until you reach Interstate 65, then go north. Cullman’s Warehouse District has become a premier shopping location. As the name implies, several large former warehouses have been transformed into upscale shops, boutiques, and eateries. With names like What a Girl Wants, Whoopsy Daisy, White Tulip, Handbags & Gladrags, The Sweetheart Tree, and Littleville Blue, you are likely to find appealing gift choices, clothes for special occasions, or décor items for your home.

Before your shopping begins, head to Duchess Bakery on 1st Avenue SE for one of their famous glazed doughnuts. Next door is a store that reflects the history of Cullman called A Touch of German. Go in to browse and get a history lesson. I should also mention the All-Steak Restaurant on 3rd Avenue SE, which has been in business since 1938. The orange rolls are legendary. 

Pro Tip: Arguably the most famous attraction in Cullman is Ave Maria Grotto at 1600 St. Bernard Drive. This is a miniature world created by Father Joseph, a Benedictine monk, who made his buildings out of found objects. The 4-acre site is a place for reflection and appreciation. 

3. Decatur 

Continuing north on I-65, you’ll see signs pointing to Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge and Cook Museum of Natural Science. Both are outstanding reasons to take the exit and stay awhile. The wildlife refuge is on Highway 67 coming into town. It is the perfect habitat for over 300 species of birds, some of which live there year-round while others pass through during annual migrations. Many mammals, reptiles, and fish also make the refuge their home. This is a photographer’s paradise. 

Cook Museum of Natural Science is a new, state-of-the-art crown jewel in downtown Decatur. It opened in 2019, and about a year later, it was named the Best New Museum in the country by USA Today ’s 10Best. It is a must-visit for all ages, and if you have children or grandchildren in tow, all the better. 

Pro Tip: A short drive from Cook Museum is Decatur’s culinary crown jewel, Big Bob Gibson’s Bar-B-Q on 6th Avenue. The giant trophies from barbecue competitions line the entrance, and bottles of their famous sauces clamor for attention. The barbecue is wonderful, but the pies might be equally famous. A meal at Big Bob’s is a must for first-time and frequent visitors. Also, a few steps from Big Bob’s is Morgan Price Candy Company, another Decatur staple. Their English toffee is a winner! 

4. Mooresville 

Across the bridge over the Wheeler Lake portion of the Tennessee River and only a 7-mile drive from Cook Museum, you will find the tiny town of Mooresville . Incorporated in 1818, the entire town is on the National Register of Historic Places. It is worth a short detour to see the historic buildings and homes, read the markers, and mail a letter at Alabama’s oldest operational post office.

Pro Tip: For a snack or sweet treat while you are in Mooresville, stop in at Dogwood & Magnolia Bakery on North Street and take a few minutes to look over the fence at 1818 Farms on Lauderdale Street for a glimpse of the babydoll sheep. Dogwood & Magnolia sells several of the soaps and beauty products made on the farm. 

5. Huntsville 

Continue on I-565 from Mooresville, and you will quickly come into the outskirts of Huntsville . You cannot miss the tall rockets on display at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center . This is Alabama’s top paid attraction and definitely worth your time. The size of the Saturn V rocket displayed inside the Davidson Center will amaze you. The displays and exhibits are outstanding, and the new INTUITIVE Planetarium offers daily programming.

For those with more artsy interests, check out Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment . Wednesdays through Saturdays it is open with many artists working inside the 152 studios. They are happy to show you their craft, and you will certainly discover an original piece to purchase and take home with you. 

For shopping, dining, and entertainment, check out Mid-City District on University Drive, Stovehouse on Governor’s Drive, or Bridge Street Town Centre. 

Pro Tip: Two new hotels in downtown Huntsville are 106 Jefferson and AC Hotel by Marriott overlooking the Von Braun Center and Big Spring International Park. For an elevated dining experience, consider Cotton Row, Commerce Kitchen, or Tom Brown’s Restaurant. 

6. Athens 

From Huntsville, head west on Highway 72 to Athens, the county seat of Limestone County. The courthouse square has many shops for browsing and a variety of eateries, such as Village Pizza, Lucia’s Cocina Mexicana, Sweetest Things Tea Room, Wildwood Deli, and Terranova’s. Recently completed for public enjoyment is Merchant’s Alley beside Terranova. It is filled with colorful murals and seating for the times you want to pause, relax, and enjoy. One of the murals depicts Athens native Brittany Howard, who headlined the group Alabama Shakes and has won numerous Grammy awards. 

Pro Tip: An Athens icon is the Kreme Delite on West Washington Street, a walk-up, take-out-only café with soft-serve ice cream, burgers, and hot dogs. It is likely best known for its upside-down banana splits. 

7. The Shoals: Florence, Muscle Shoals, Tuscumbia, And Sheffield 

Continuing west on Highway 72, you will find what is referred to as The Shoals or the Quad Cities. The lines separating the four towns of Florence, Muscle Shoals, Tuscumbia, and Sheffield often become blurred, because one touches the next without a discernible break. Florence is the largest of the towns and is home to the University of North Alabama. A free excursion worth your time is a visit to the George H. Carroll Lion Habitat, an impressive, climate-controlled facility housing Leo III, the university’s mascot. 

A few blocks away on North Court Street, you will find some great restaurants, such as Odette, Ricatoni’s Italian Grill, Big Bad Breakfast, and Trowbridge’s Ice Cream and Sandwich Bar. A very upscale shop on North Court Street is Billy Reid, which has fashion creations rivaling those in New York City. 

Pro Tip: Two boutique hotels in downtown Florence are The Gunrunner and The Stricklin Hotel. 

Tuscumbia is home to both the Alabama Music Hall of Fame and Ivy Green , the childhood home of Helen Keller. Both are filled with memorabilia of historical significance, one about musicians connected to Alabama, and the other about a remarkable woman who was blind and deaf and her dedicated teacher Annie Sullivan. 

Muscle Shoals is the location for FAME Studios where an astounding number of famous rock and country stars recorded their hits. Among them are Jason Isbell, Alicia Keys, and Aretha Franklin. Tours are offered at selected times Monday through Saturday, but be sure to check the website and reserve a time that works for you. 

Tom’s Wall on County Road 8 in Florence is off the normal path but well worth the time to find. Tom Hendrix spent more than 30 years of his life constructing a stone wall in memory of his great, great grandmother who was a member of the Yuchi tribe carried away during the Trail of Tears and forced to walk to Oklahoma. This remarkable woman spent 5 years walking back to her home on the Tennessee River, which she called “the river that sings.” Tom said that each stone represented a step she took coming home. It is the largest unmortared wall in the United States. Tom died in February of 2017, but his son Trace still allows people to visit the memorial wall. 

When you are ready to head out of Alabama and into Tennessee, get back on Interstate 65. If hunger pangs hit, stop at the Ardmore exit and eat at Mildred’s before crossing the state line. Her fried green tomatoes will leave a great taste in your mouth.

Connie and her husband Steve recently celebrated their 51st anniversary and have three married children and 15 grandchildren. She and Steve have traveled to many parts of the world doing missionary work, but the pair are now making bucket-list trips and exploring their beloved South in depth.

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7 Cool Cities in North Alabama (+ 20 Places To Visit in North Alabama)

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North Alabama is super easy to visit from the neighbouring states of Mississippi, Tennessee and Georgia.  Not only are there beautiful outdoor things to do in North Alabama, but several cities in North Alabama that are worth your visit.  Whether you are doing a road trip in Alabama or a road trip through the Southern States  generally, you will want to check out at least some of these suggested places to visit in North Alabama. Northern Alabama cities are a diverse bunch ranging from small cities that feel like small towns to Metro Huntsville, undeniably a big city.

Cities in North Alabama

Some cities in Northern Alabama cluster together as they grow so that divisions between city lines are hard to delineate. Examples of this are the Metro Huntsville area or the Quad Cities Alabama. Nonetheless, you also have smaller cities like Scottsboro or Albertville.

Metro Huntsville

The 2021 population of Huntsville was 205,472. It is the second largest city in Alabama after Birmingham.

Metro Huntsville, made up of Limestone County and Madison County, has swallowed up the neighbouring city of Madison, Alabama . The 2021 population of Metro Huntsville is 492,000.

Huntsville, AL is quickly turning into one of the hippest cities in the south with a slew of breweries, bars, and trendy eateries all over town. The city also has a rich historic district with plenty of museums and cultural places to explore.

Metro Huntsville encompasses two counties in North Alabama.

Known as Rocket City, space and aeronautic enthusiasts travel from far to visit the Davidson Centre for Space Exploration (the number 1 visitor attraction in Alabama!).

In fact, the number 3 most visited attraction in Alabama is also in this city – the Huntsville Botanical Gardens . The Botanic Gardens are located near the NASA complex because they were repurposed from a US cavalry unit had been housed.

Kids come from far and wide for their summer camps at the Huntsville Space Center such as Space Camp and Aviation Challenge .

Towns near Huntsville AL that Metro Huntsville has swallowed up include New Market, formerly known as The Watercress Capital of the World. Random. But charming.

• Cool things to do in Huntsville Alabama
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Athens, Alabama

Athens Alabama is one of the smaller North Alabama cities with a 2021 population of 29,216.

Only 15 miles from the Tennessee border, Athens Alabama is an easy place to visit from Nashville, Tennessee. There’s a beautiful downton historic area as well as a driving tour of 24 antebellum mansions nearby to visit. Athens is home to Athens State College , Alabama’s oldest school of tertiary learning and founded in 1842. Thanks to all this history, there are a fair few antique shops to visit.

Athens is located near Alabama’s second largest lake (also a reservoir created to help manage the Tennessee River), Wheeler Lake . Wheeler Lake is home to a number of fishing tournaments like the Heartland Anglers Bass Tournament.

In 2021, the sheriff of Limestone County (who had been sheriff for 40 years) was convicted of corruption.

Quad Cities Alabama

The Florence Muscle Shoals area also includes the smaller cities of Tuscumbia and Sheffield. This larger metropolitan area known as the Quad Cities Alabama had a population in 2021 of nearly 200,000.

Florence is known as the birthplace of Helen Keller and her childhood home is now a museum, Ivy Green . The city also has a strikingly rich music history. FAME studios recorded legends like Aretha Franklin and the Rolling Stones and quickly garnered a reputation as one of the safest, most inclusive spaces in the country for artists to record at.

The city has breweries that carry on this welcoming atmosphere and there are also marvelous natural attractions in Northeast Alabama , like Key Cave National Wildlife Refuge and the Natchez Trace.

Rosenbaum house is a Frank Lloyd Wright designed house in Florence, Alabama

Decatur, Alabama

Among North Alabama cities, Decatur is widely known for Big Bob Gibson’s BBQ and Point Mallard Park . Although the population of Decatur in 2021 was 153,521, the city still feels like a small town.

The city is located on the banks of Wheeler Lake where one of the fun things to do is to hop aboard The Pickwick Belle riverboat to get a taste of old-timey travel.

There are plenty of other historic sites to visit, including the Blue and Gray Museum (aka North Alabama Civil War Museum) that has a wonderful collection of civil war artifacts. If you love trains, check out the  Decatur Train Depot that is on the North Alabama depot trail and a part of the Trail of Tears as well.

Riverfront park in Decatur Alabama

Scottsboro, Alabama

Cities in Northern Alabama like Scottsboro were also made nationally famous during the Civil Rights Era . Despite the population of Scottsboro in 2021 being only 51,636, people still remember the case of the Scottsboro Boys in 1931.

Some of the greatest things to do in Northern Alabama include exploring unique and wonderful natural features. Spelunkers frequent Jackson county and Scottsboro for the spectacular limestone caves in the area, one of the most famous being Stephens Gap . Neversink Pit is another ultra-popular sinkhole that offers plenty of adventure.

Don’t forget to stop by the Unclaimed Baggage Center to pick up massive bargains that careless airline passengers have lost.

Lake Guntersville passes by Scottsboro Alabama offering plenty of outdoor recreation activities

Guntersville, Alabama

Although the 2021 population of Guntersville is a mere 8,685, the city is important in Northeast Alabama because of its connection with Guntersville State Park.

Guntersville is an outdoors lover’s paradise with plenty to do at Guntersville State Park and Lake Guntersville . Play golf on one of the most scenic courses in the south or get your blood pumping on a zipline ride. Activities in the town are centered around the expansive lake and fishing, boating, and relaxing by the waterside is all in a day’s work.

The historic downtown area of Guntersville, Alabama

Albertville, Alabama

One of the smaller North Alabama cities, Albertville has a 2021 population of 22,637. It is still the largest city in Marshall County though!

The city is known as the fire hydrant capital of the world because of a local producer of fire hydrants. Makes sure to stop by and see the gleaming nickel fire hydrant near the famous Albertville Train Depot which commemorates the importance of fire hydrants to the local economy.

The Albertville Train Depot is on the National Register of Historic Places and is also part of the North Alabama Train Depots Trail.

Nearby, Sand Mountain Park in Albertville is a 130 acre recreational area with an amphitheater and many sports facilities. Families will love the new state of the art outdoor water park .The Sand Mountain water park features waterslides, a splash pad and a lazy river making for a fun day out.

If you are following the North Alabama wine trail, stop by the Albertville winery. The Jules J. Berta Vineyards and Pizzeria  has been voted visitor’s favourite attraction in North Alabama. I mean, Huntsville may have rockets and botanical gardens, but nothing beats a gourmet pizza and wine slushy on a hot summer’s day!

Northern Alabama cities can be quirky, like Albertville, the fire hydrant capital of the world.

Map of North Alabama Cities

Here’s a map of the cities in Northern Alabama which shows where they are located to help you plan your next trip to the area.

Map of 7 cities in Northern Alabama

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7 Destinations Way Up North In Alabama That Are So Worth The Drive

Discover seven must-visit outdoor destinations in North Alabama, each offering unique scenic beauty and recreational activities.

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Many beautiful places are located throughout Alabama, including several outdoor spots in the northern region of the state. From scenic parks to gorgeous preserves, you never know what you'll come across while exploring our great state. Listed below are seven North Alabama destinations that you'll most definitely want to add to your outdoor bucket list. They're so worth the drive!

1. Lake Guntersville State Park - Guntersville

Lake Guntersville State Park, which covers approximately 6,000 acres, is located on the eastern shore of Lake Guntersville. Covering 69,000 acres, Lake Guntersville is Alabama's largest lake. Because of the variety of activities the park offers, including hiking, boating, and fishing, Lake Guntersville State park is considered one of Alabama's best overall state parks. You can visit Lake Guntersville State Park at 1155 Lodge Dr., Guntersville, AL 35976.

2. Little River Canyon National Preserve - Fort Payne

Little River Canyon National Preserve is located atop Lookout Mountain near Fort Payne, Alabama. Best known as the "Grand Canyon of the East," this scenic preserve offers a variety of recreational activities such as hiking, camping, swimming, and more. It's a definite must-visit for anyone who loves the outdoors. You can visit Little River Canyon National Preserve at 4322 Little River Trl. NE, Fort Payne, AL 35967.

3. Town of Mentone

With less than 500 residents, Mentone is one of Alabama's smallest towns. It also has the highest elevation of any Alabama town and offers the most incredible views.

4. Weathington Park - Section

Weathington Park is one of Alabama's best-kept secrets. Located just outside of Scottsboro, Weathington Park covers 13 acres and is the perfect place for an afternoon picnic. This little-known park offers an amazing view of the Tennessee River. You can visit Weathington Park at Tammy Little Dr., Section, AL 35771.

5. Madison County Nature Trail - Huntsville

The Madison County Nature Trail, which covers 72 acres, is a scenic park that's perfect for a family day trip. In addition to its 1.5-mile walking trail, this park also features a covered bridge, a chapel, a log cabin, and more. The Madison County Nature Trail is a definite must-visit for nature and history lovers of all ages. You can visit the Madison County Nature Trail at 5000 Nature Trail Rd. SE, Huntsville, AL 35803.

6. Cane Creek Canyon Nature Preserve - Tuscumbia

Cane Creek Canyon Nature Preserve covers approximately 700 acres and is one of North Alabama's true hidden gems. This scenic preserve features 15 miles of hiking trails, lovely waterfalls, spectacular views, and more. It's a must-visit for anyone wanting to get closer to nature. You can visit Cane Creek Canyon Nature Preserve at 251 Loop Rd., Tuscumbia, AL 35674.

7. Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge - Decatur

The Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge, which covers 35,000 acres, is located along the beautiful Tennessee River near Decatur. It's used as a breeding spot for migratory birds and offers a variety of recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, kayaking, and more. The Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge is a must-visit for all nature lovers. You can visit the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge at 3121 Visitor Center Rd., Decatur, AL 35603.

Have you been to any of these seven North Alabama destinations? If so, please share your experience(s) with us in the comments.

For a list of more beautiful places in Alabama everyone should check out at least once, click here .

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The One Alabama Park Where You Can Feed Alligators

One of the state's best wildlife attractions, Alligator Alley in Summerdale, Alabama, is an animal adventure you won't forget.

Run, don't crawl to South Alabama for one of the state's best wildlife attractions, Alligator Alley in Summerdale, Alabama, an animal adventure you won't forget. This wildlife sanctuary protects and cares for over 600 rescued alligators and is open daily so you can give them a little love, too.

Alligator Alley owner Wes Moore founded the sanctuary in 2004, creating a safe place for alligators who found themselves in unnatural areas and faced imminent danger. According to the sanctuary's informational materials, any alligator over four feet long and determined dangerous to people or their property must be removed. Thanks to Moore and his team, many have found a safe home over the last two decades.

The sanctuary is open every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with feeding times at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 4 p.m. Final admission is 30 minutes before closing. When you arrive, you can explore the property on your own. You can get a bird's-eye view from a platform and stroll an elevated boardwalk overlooking gators just hanging out in a natural habitat along with other creatures like turtles, bullfrogs, ospreys, and owls.

While staff members interact up close with the gators during the live feedings, you can also participate by feeding them gator chow. The staff will guide you on the appropriate feeding method and happily answer any questions you may have about these impressive creatures.

This is the place for anyone who wants to learn ALL about alligators, from the earliest stages of their lives to maturity. (Did you know the typical life span for an alligator is 50 years?) One revered resident is Captain Crunch, who is just over 13 feet long, weighs more than 800 pounds and is the world record holder for bite strength at 2,982 pounds.

Naturally, new generations of gators have originated at the sanctuary, which also has dedicated viewing areas for the hatchlings. The staff will even help you hold one of the babies before you leave.

As you might guess, Alligator Alley is a huge hit with animal-obsessed kiddos and a popular spot for birthday parties. Even so, people of all ages and walks of life will gain knowledge and a better understanding of alligators and conservation efforts. See the Alligator Alley website for admission fees and party pricing, and follow Alligator Alley on Facebook for the latest sanctuary news.

Looking for more family fun in this neck of our piney South Alabama woods? Be sure to check out Wales West Light Railway & RV Resort in Silverhill, Alabama – just nine miles and a 15-minute drive west from Alligator Alley. The park has a popular swimming hole in the summer and offers year-round train rides, including popular holiday-themed rides around Easter, Halloween, and Christmas.

There is a lot more to explore in this little area of Baldwin County, making it perfect for a little getaway. If you make the trip, consider this spacious Airbnb in Summerdale for your home base. This rural retreat is a guest favorite, and with three bedrooms and two baths, it sleeps up to six people.

Let us know if you visit! We would love to hear all about it!

Tiny But Mighty, The Smallest State Park In Alabama Is A Hidden Gem Worth Exploring

Lake Jackson RV Park at Florala, Alabama's smallest state park, offers camping and various water activities on the state's only natural lake.

Alabama is home to 22 beautiful state parks that offer a little bit of everything. One of these state parks is Lake Jackson RV Park at Florala, which happens to be the smallest state park in Alabama . To learn all about this tiny, but mighty, Florala State Park, take a look below.

Lake Jackson RV Park at Florala, which is formerly known as Florala State Park, is located in Florala, Alabama.

Covering approximately 40 acres, Lake Jackson Rv Park at Florala is Alabama's smallest state park. It offers both 30 and 50 amp sites for anyone wishing to camp here.

Lake Jackson RV Park at Florala is situated on the banks of Lake Jackson. This 500-acre lake is Alabama's only natural lake. In addition to Alabama, Lake Jackson also shares its shores with Florida.

Throughout the year, numerous people spend time on Lake Jackson because of its clean water. People also enjoy a variety of water activities this lake offers, including boating, tubing, skiing, fishing, and so much more.

Even though Lake Jackson RV Park at Florala is on the smaller side, it's still a great place for a day trip. It's also located on the Alabama Birding Trail, so you'll likely spot several beautiful birds during your visit.

If you do decide to visit the smallest state park in Alabama, be sure to stay at least until dusk. This way you'll get to experience a beautiful sunset.

For more information about Lake Jackson RV Park at Florala, including rates and other activities offered, you can view the Alabama State Parks website.

Have you ever been to Lake Jackson RV Park at Florala? If so, what did you think about it? Please share your thoughts with us in the comments below.

Another one of Alabama's smallest state parks is Blue Springs State Park in Clio. For information, be sure to take a look at the following article: Everyone In Alabama Must Visit This Epic Natural Spring As Soon As Possible. Or for those who love a good trek, the best hiking in Alabama can be found on Alltrails.

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These quirky road trips will make you fall in love with North Alabama

There may not be a quirkier place to visit than North Alabama.

Yes, I know everyone says that, but in this case, it’s true. The region is full of businesses, attractions and restaurants that celebrate the uniqueness of the Yellowhammer State.

Where else can you explore a store filled with lost airline luggage? Or visit a memorial site devoted to coon dogs? Or eat lunch in a jail cell? (No, I’m not kidding with that last one.)

Truth is, you can plan a long vacation and just explore the region’s unique places and still not be able to visit every spot on your list. But you can visit a lot of them. And that’s where we come in.

We’ve devised a list of some of the North Alabama’s quirkiest places, and divided them into two regions: West of Interstate 65, and east of it. This way, you can plan your getaway for the maximum amount of attractions (and fun).

But before you read on, you may want to go ahead and email your bosses and tell them you need a few days off. Or maybe a week, to be on the safe side.

You won’t want to cut this vacation short.

West of Interstate 65

Visit a serene place where people pay respects to coonhounds.

Key Underwood Coon Dog Memorial Graveyard 4945 Coondog Cemetery Road, Cherokee

In 1937, Key Underwood wanted a special place to bury his coonhound, Troop. He ended up burying the pup on a campground near Cherokee in Colbert County, and later on, Key’s brother ended up burying his coonhound there as well. Then, Key Underwood Memorial Graveyard was born. Now, more than 150 people across the country have buried their coondogs there, and it remains the only coon dog cemetery in the country — and a beautiful testament to our love for our pets.

Eat — and maybe listen to some music — in a cave.

Rattlesnake Saloon 1292 Mt. Mills Road, Tuscumbia

Ever wanted to eat in a cave? You can at Tuscumbia’s Rattlesnake Saloon, where every second is an adventure. When you arrive in the parking lot, a shuttle will take you down some pretty steep hills to get to the cave, which is decorated like a Western saloon. Choose from menu items including snake eyes and tails (aka fried sliced jalapeno peppers and fried green beans) and deep-fried cheesecake. Just don’t forget your dancing shoes!

See some unique pottery — and maybe a mule.

Brown’s Pottery and Sons 166 Boyett Drive, Hamilton

You can find the work of Hamilton native and folk artist Jerry Brown – who passed away in 2016 –all over the world, including the Smithsonian Institute. And his family, including his sons, grandchildren and wife, are continuing his tradition. Travel to Hamilton and you’ll find them hard at work at the only operating mule-powered mill in the U.S., and snag a face jug while you’re there.

Explore the longest natural bridge east of the Rockies.

County Road 314, Natural Bridge

Alabama’s picturesque natural bridge is one of the state’s hidden gems. Not only is it perfect for outdoors lovers (there’s a scenic hike on the property that’s super serene), but it’s also a great place for a day trip — there are picnic tables, a gift shop and more. If kids are in tow, they’ll love this, too.

Enjoy a breathtaking view for dinner.

360 Grille 10 Hightower Place, Florence

360 Grille is much more than just a great place for date night. Sure, the fine dining restaurant has delicious steaks, salads and more, and a romantic ambience that will impress your significant other. But the rotating (yep, rotating ) restaurant also has a breathtaking panoramic view of the Tennessee River that will make you fall in love with North Alabama even more.

See one-of-a-kind ‘glow worms.’

Dismals Canyon 901 County Road 8, Phil Campbell

Dismals Canyon’s beauty is hard to put into words. It’s one of the last places in Alabama that’s truly hidden, and during the day, you’ll find gorgeous waterfalls and hiking trails and a temperature that’s cooler than the rest of Alabama. But at night, it gets even better: That’s when Dismalites, a type of glow worms, come out, lighting up the landscape. It’s the only place in the country where you can see the Dismalites, and one of three places in the world.

Celebrate your favorite songs in a cool way.

North Montgomery Avenue, Sheffield

The Shoals area is known worldwide for its rich musical heritage, with everyone from the Rolling Stones to Aretha Franklin have come to the area to record over the years. So it makes sense to commemorate this heritage with a giant rock star — an 18-foot-tall rock star, to be exact. Artist Audwin McGee created the statue, and it’s been hovering over downtown Sheffield since 2012.

East of Interstate 65

Shop somewhere where you’ll never know what you will find.

Unclaimed Baggage 509 W. Willow St., Scottsboro

Unclaimed Baggage is a shopper’s paradise. The store purchases all the luggage (and its contents) that airline passengers don’t claim within 90 days, and you never know what you will find in there. Some of the most unique items that Unclaimed Baggage has found over the years, including Hoggle from Jim Henson’s “Labyrinth” and a huge Tibetan horn, is displayed in its front lobby, greeting the million+ shoppers that make their way to the store each year.

Hang out with some animals — even if you’re allergic.

Rock Zoo 3215 County Road 32, Fackler

You don’t have to worry about your kids around the animals at the Rock Zoo, because, well, the animals are made of limestone. The creatures are the creation of Leonard Dawson, who made the first pet, a rooster, in the 1970s. Since Leonard passed away more than a decade ago, his son, Larry, has become “zookeeper,” overseeing dozens of animals including a bull, elephant and alligator.

Eat comfort food in a jail cell.

Main Street Café 101 Main St., Madison

In downtown Madison, jail food is tasty. Main Street Cafe — which is located in Madison’s former jailhouse — serves some seriously legit comfort food. From fried green tomatoes to spaghetti, there’s something you’ll love on the menu. But best of all: There are still two jail cells in the restaurant that are used as private dining rooms.

See the world’s most important landmarks — without leaving Alabama.

Ave Maria Grotto 1600 St. Bernard Drive, Cullman

Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t explore the world in Cullman, Alabama. At Ave Maria Grotto at St. Bernard’s Abbey, you’ll find 125 miniature reproductions of some of the world’s most famous structures, all made by one man: Brother Joseph Zoettl, a Benedictine monk. Brother Joseph worked on the replicas for more than 40 years, and the hard work shows: Each structure has lots of detail, all made from items shipped in from around the world.

Explore restored covered bridges.

Blount County

Blount County is pretty lucky: It’s the Covered Bridge Capital of Alabama and is home to not one, but three beautifully restored covered bridges. The Swann Covered Bridge ( 1590 Swann Bridge Rd, Cleveland ) , Old Easley Covered Bridge ( Easley Bridge Road, Oneonta ) and Horton Mill Bridge ( Covered Bridge Cir, Oneonta ) are all nostalgic blasts from the past that you’ll absolutely love.

Eat tacos in a school bus.

Taqueria el Cazador 3414 Governors Drive S.W., Huntsville

We all probably grew up with the “no food on the school bus” rule, but at Taqueria el Cazador in Huntsville, you don’t have to worry about that at all — because the Mexican restaurant is located in a school bus. Yep, walk into the school bus, place your order (we suggest any of the tacos), and wait for the food. You can grab a chair inside the bus, or eat under an awning outside.

Pick up a really unique gift.

Orbix Hot Glass 3869 County Road 275, Fort Payne

It’s not easy getting to Orbix Hot Glass. The shop is off the beaten path, bordering Little River Canyon National Preserve, but it’s worth it. Because inside the store, you’ll find expertly-made glasswork made by co-owner Cal Breed and his apprentices. If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind gift, Orbix has you covered.

Check out a truly unique statue.

Noccalula Falls 1500 Noccalula Road, Gadsden

We gotta admit it — it looks a little strange when you first see the Noccalula statue at Noccalula Falls Park in Gadsden. Why in the world is there a bronze statue of a woman jumping in water, after all? Well, it’s actually kind of a bummer of a story: Local legend has it that Noccalula’s dad told her she had to marry someone she did not love, so she jumped to her death. Regardless of the story, it’s still an amazing statue (it stands at 9 feet tall) and is a pretty quirky reminder that fathers aren’t always right.

Munch on Italian food in a gun shop.

Mama Misitano Cafe 626 Bloodworth Road, Boaz

Yes, that’s right — you can eat dinner in a gun shop (or more precisely, San Mountain Shooter’s Club). Mama Misitano serves up authentic Italian recipes such as paninis and pizzas. And on Sunday, the restaurant serves three different kinds of pasta to choose from.  Just remember one thing: You may want to wear loose clothing, because you’re definitely not going to leave hungry.

This story is sponsored by  Visit North Alabama .

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Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Association

The Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Association (AMLA) is a regional nonprofit tourism and travel organization headquartered in Decatur , Morgan County . It promotes economic development and tourism and represents businesses and attractions in 16 counties in north Alabama . Members include chambers of commerce, convention and visitors’ bureaus, owners of attractions, campgrounds, festival operators, municipal government agencies, tour operators, hospitality industry owners, financial institutions, and individuals. The association promotes tourist destinations and related businesses in sectors such as outdoor recreation, sports, ecotourism, agri-tourism , food and wine, and religion . According to annual reports prepared by the Alabama Tourism Department, the tourism industry generates some $4.3 billion dollars annually in the 16-county region of AMLA and employs more than 46,000 people directly and indirectly.

On June 10, 1964, a group of regional representatives met to formally establish AMLA as a non-profit organization focused on stimulating the economic and cultural development of north Alabama through tourism and travel. Based in Decatur, the organization had one employee, director Bert Unpingo, and was funded through membership dues. Members consisted of representatives of various business, organizations, and agencies in Blount , Cherokee , Colbert , Cullman , DeKalb , Etowah , Franklin , Jackson , Lauderdale , Lawrence , Limestone , Madison , Marion , Marshall , Morgan, and Winston Counties.

Alabama Bass Trail Event

One of AMLA’s most successful programs is the Alabama Bass Trail and Alabama Bass Trail Tournament Series and 100 Series. Established in 2012, the Alabama Bass Trail has secured Alabama’s reputation as a world-class destination for anglers. The trail connects 13 of Alabama’s premiere bass-fishing lakes and stretches from the mountains of north Alabama south to the Mobile-Tensaw Delta . In 2014, the Alabama Bass Trail announced the launch of the team-style tournament series for amateur anglers, with championship events taking place on one of 10 different lakes each year. The 100 Series launched at the beginning of 2021, drawing professional along with amateur anglers from across the United States to compete on three Alabama Bass Trail lakes.

In 2014 and 2016, AMLA worked with the Appalachian Regional Commission on a national tourism campaign entitled “Bon Appétit Appalachia” highlighting culinary destinations in the Appalachia region, including north Alabama. The campaign showcased unique local foods and educated travelers and residents on local farms, farmers markets, farm-to-fork restaurants, chefs featuring local ingredients, vineyards and award-winning wineries, craft breweries and distilleries, heritage food festivals, and other distinctive culinary events.

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Things to Do in Northwest Alabama, AL

1. Rising Smoke

"It was a delicious meal, loved the stuff they call white sauce, it was the bomb! The ..." more

2. The Rosenbaum House

"Excellent example of an FLW Usonian with an FLW designed addition. Our guide did an o..." more

3. Dismals Canyon

"A friend was very persistent and was able to snag 4 spots for a night tour to go see ..." more

4. Alabama Music Hall Of Fame

"Growing up in Alabama, I'd listen to a lot of country music..hell, the first concert ..." more

5. El Buen Sabor

"My favorite plates from here are the burritos, pupusas and grilled chicken. I can say..." more

6. Higher Pursuits

"I have been out twice with Higher pursuits kayaking. They have professional staff and..." more

7. Helen Keller Birth Place - Ivy Green

"My family took a day trip here and this was the highlight stop of the day. She absolu..." more

8. Dixie Den

"I always LOVE Dixie Den. We've been going there for many years. I recommend the club ..." more

Best Restaurants in Northwest Alabama, AL

"The hirata bun is now a must order when I go, as it's steamed bun, cucumber, & bbq pork flavor combo is stellar." See all Sushi Sumo reviews

YUMM Thai Sushi and Beyond

"BEST sushi & martinis you will ever eat with beautiful presentation and stellar service ." See all YUMM Thai Sushi and Beyond reviews

Wildwood Tavern

"This is a great business that is really keeping Florence funky ." See all Wildwood Tavern reviews

"[Updated Review!] It used to be that Ricatoni's Italian Grill represented all that was good with downtown Florence ." See all Odette reviews

Ichiban Japanese Restaurant

"The restaurant is cozy and welcoming, whether you are in the regular dining area or hibachi !" See all Ichiban Japanese Restaurant reviews

George's Steak Pit

"George's has stood the test of time in the Shoals area ." See all George's Steak Pit reviews

Valentina's Pizzeria & Wine Bar

"I ordered the Godfather pizza and the Margerita Pizza along with Garlic Knots and a Valentina's salad." See all Valentina's Pizzeria & Wine Bar reviews

Bank Street Grill

"The beef is house ground, a mix of ribeye, filet and chuck, this makes it super flavorful." See all Bank Street Grill reviews

"I recommend the Downtown Hoagie for any first timers but their chicken salad is hard to beat as well." See all Brick Deli reviews

"It is Alabama's tallest tourist attraction, and offers a terrific vantage of both the Wilson Dam and the Tennessee River ." See all 360 Grille reviews

Stanfield's River Bottom Grille

"My husband had the brisket burger and I had the blackened fish flat ." See all Stanfield's River Bottom Grille reviews

Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q

"The meat was just like I remember from years ago - Smokey flavor and juicy with a tangy vinegar white sauce ." See all Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q reviews

The Shoals Shack

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Ro's Grille

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Nightlife in Northwest Alabama, AL

609 Social-Market & Provisions

"Smoked Salmon Dip was excellent and be sure to get the Brussels as a side!" See all 609 Social-Market & Provisions reviews

Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux

"We've been to Walk-on 's 3 times in the past week - that along should indicate how much we enjoy this new restaurant." See all Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux reviews

412 Public House

"We liked the wonton nachos with chicken and we all had the special brisket burgers with sweet potato fries." See all 412 Public House reviews

Hank's Sports Bar & Rumors Deli

"I usually go for the scoop and crunchy salad , but I've tried just about everything they have to offer." See all Hank's Sports Bar & Rumors Deli reviews

On the Rocks

"But as others have mentioned, for typical bar food , this is about as good as it gets." See all On the Rocks reviews

The Stem & Stein

"I'm giving it 5 stars because: Ally and her sister ( Jess ?), behind the bar, ALWAYS remember my favorite wine." See all The Stem & Stein reviews

Prohibition Rooftop Bar & Grill

"My only comment would be that the salsa on the cauliflower bowl didn't seem like it fit with the rest of the flavors." See all Prohibition Rooftop Bar & Grill reviews

306 BBQ Florence

"Fantastic rib sandwich (no bones), excellent baked beans and wonderful mustard slaw ." See all 306 BBQ Florence reviews

The Casual Pint of Huntsville

"The beer cheese had a hint of spice that any beer would have been a good accompaniment." See all The Casual Pint of Huntsville reviews

Tom Brown's Restaurant

" Demetrius and Theo were outstanding servers and Gavine, one of the managers made sure everything was perfect for us." See all Tom Brown's Restaurant reviews

Mellow Mushroom Decatur

"We ordered the spinach dip & pretzel bites since the apps were half off & the Buffalo chicken pizza." See all Mellow Mushroom Decatur reviews

El Olmeca Mexican Cantina

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6 Things to Do on a Budget in North Alabama: Huntsville & Decatur

T here are tons of cheap things to do all throughout North Alabama! For this post, I’m focusing on Huntsville and Decatur, two major North AL cities. Check out these top things to do on a budget in North Alabama that are perfect for a weekend trip.

North Alabama is an exciting destination with plenty of history, arts and culture, and picture-perfect waterfalls. Explore these budget-friendly things to do in the Huntsville and Decatur region of North Alabama.

This post is sponsored by Visit North Alabama . As always, all opinions are my own.

Cheap North Alabama Activities

1. historic depot & railroad museum.

Decatur, Alabama

The Historic Depot & Railroad Museum is a small museum dedicated to Decatur’s railroad history. The museum is packed with railroad memorabilia, history, and model trains that run through recreations of Decatur landmarks.

This historic passenger depot was built by the Southern Railway in 1905. Trains still use the tracks behind the museum today, though they’re no longer passenger trains, and you may be lucky enough to see one come by while you’re at the museum!

If you want more train museums, be sure to check out Visit North AL’s Train Depot Trail .

2. Carnegie Visual Arts Center

Carnegie Visual Arts Center displays local artists and touring exhibits throughout the year. They feature all different mediums of art, resulting in a unique mix of art forms.

The center is housed in the historic Carnegie Library building, which was constructed in 1904 and was funded by the Carnegie Foundation. This was the public library for nearly 70 years, then the children’s library, then a youth center for First Baptist Church, and finally the art museum.

3. Downtown Turtle Trail

The Downtown Decatur Turtle Trail is an interactive scavenger hunt where you get to search for tiny turtle statues while learning all about Decatur’s history.

The trail runs along Second Avenue where 10 turtles are hidden by important downtown landmarks. Using the clues provided , you’ll be able find the turtles. The clues are little rhymes, along with the turtles’ names, that describe where to look and the history it relates to. For instance, the first turtle Mikey is hidden by the Princess Theatre, and he’s singing into a microphone.

Once you’ve found all 10 turtles, you can post them to social media using the hashtags #TurtleTrail and #DecaturDowntown, then visit the Cook Museum store or the Decatur Morgan County Tourism office to receive a special prize.

4. Secret Artemis Trail

Huntsville, Alabama

Huntsville is Rocket City for good reason! In celebration of the Space Launch System named Artemis, they’ve introduced a fun Downtown scavenger hunt where you can find 12 tiny rockets hidden around.

The Secret Artemis Trail comes with a map and a general location to help you search out the 1-foot-tall Artemis statues. Here’s a couple hints: They’re located by murals and artworks, and you’ll usually have to look up to find them.

This trail is a great way to get to know Downtown Huntsville! And it’s easily one of the best free things to do in Huntsville .

Some of the locations also overlap with the Downtown Huntsville Secret Art Walk and are near locations from the Lucky Duck Scavenger Hunt , so you could definitely combine those for a day full of scavenger hunting. Plus, be sure to check-in to different sites on the North Alabama Mural Trail while you’re at it.

5. Downtown Huntsville & Twickenham Audio Tour

Get to know the history of Downtown Huntsville and the historic Twickenham neighborhood with a self-guided audio tour from Huntsville History Tours .

The Downtown Huntsville & Twickenham tour takes you through Alabama Constitution Hall Park, around the Downtown Square, and through the neighborhood of Twickenham’s antebellum homes.

The tour is designed as a walking tour, and it does require a good bit of walking. But with a total of 42 sites, this is one of the best ways to learn about Huntsville’s history, and it doesn’t cost you a thing!

6. Keel Mountain Preserve Lost Sink Trail

Gurley, Alabama

The Lost Sink at Keel Mountain Preserve is a waterfall that flows into a sinkhole and disappears underground. The Lost Sink Trail is a moderately challenging 3.9 miles out-and-back hike.

Keel Mountain Preserve is located just outside of Huntsville in Gurley. The 310 acre preserve was selected to protect the federally endangered Morefield’s leatherflower, a rare plant that has only been found in North Alabama and Tennessee.

The Lost Sink Trail winds through a lush forest with a rocky terrain and some steep inclines. The waterfall is best after a heavy rainfall. It can be a challenging hike to get to, but the waterfall is well worth it. Be sure to check out other waterfalls on the Magic Waterfalls of North Alabama Trail .

North Alabama on a Budget Map

Ready to explore North Alabama on a budget? Use the map below to plan out your trip with all these free things to do in Huntsville and Decatur, AL!

I hope this helps you plan a cheap trip to North Alabama!

Save on North Alabama’s Top Attractions

Want to save big on North Alabama’s top attractions ? With the Huntsville and North Alabama Multi-Attraction Pass you can save up to 47% on 10 attractions in cities across North Alabama.

Visit bucket list attractions and discover Alabama’s hidden gems. With this pass, you’ll have everything you need right on your phone, saving you both time and money.

Get your Huntsville and North Alabama Multi-Attractions Pass here.

Top North Alabama Tours

A guided tour is always a good idea to get to know a new city! Check out these top North Alabama tours.

• Huntsville and North Alabama Multi-Attraction Pass
• The Raptor, High Rope Course and Zipline Tickets, Wheeler Lake KOA
• Florence, Muscle Shoals Multi-Attraction Pass
• Muscle Shoals Sound Studio Tour in Sheffield Alabama

Where to Stay in Huntsville & Decatur

Find the best place to rest your head in Huntsville or Decatur, Alabama.

• Where I Stayed: 106 Jefferson Huntsville
• Top Huntsville Hotel: Hampton Inn Huntsville / Village of Providence
• Top Decatur Hotel: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Decatur Riverfront
• Great Value in Huntsville: Drury Inn & Suites at the Space & Rocket Center
• Great Value in Decatur: Hampton Inn Decatur

More North Alabama Tips

Want to explore even more of North Alabama? Check out these itineraries and travel tips:

• 43 Murals in Huntsville, AL That Are Out of This World [MAP]
• Madison County Nature Trail on Green Mountain
• Jones Valley Loop Trail in Huntsville
• 7 Best Things to Do in Florence, Alabama
• 8 Fun Things to Do in Muscle Shoals for Music-Lovers
• 7 Spooky and Haunted Places in Huntsville, Alabama
• The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Huntsville, Alabama
• A Cave Tour at Alabama’s Cathedral Caverns State Park
• A Guide to Visiting the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama
• Huntsville, Alabama for Space Fans: The Perfect 1 Day Itinerary

Ready to visit North Alabama? Plan your trip with these tips.

• Book your flight: Find the cheapest flights using Skyscanner , my favorite flight search engine.
• Find Accommodation: You can find top hotels in Huntsville and Decatur using Booking.com.
• Get Packing: Make sure you’ve packed everything you need with my packing list resources .

What are your favorite things to do on a budget in North Alabama? Let me know in the comments!

The post 6 Things to Do on a Budget in North Alabama: Huntsville & Decatur appeared first on Paige Minds The Gap .

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AMLA Announces 2024 PEAK Award Winners

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Karen Beasley, Vice President of Marketing & Communications

Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Association

PHONE: 256.350.3500 / 800.648.5381

EMAIL: [email protected]

Decatur, Ala. (September 26, 2024) - The Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Association (AMLA) announces the recipients of the 2024 PEAK Awards. The program pays tribute to tourism leaders, attractions, festivals and organizations that set the bar for North Alabama’s $4.7 billion tourism industry. The awards presentation is part of the AMLA Annual Meeting held today at The Jackson Center in Huntsville, Ala.

Representing the highest achievement in North Alabama tourism, the PEAK Awards honor individuals, attractions, events and organizations that have had a major impact on the travel and tourism industry in North Alabama. “The PEAK Awards celebrate the outstanding work of the communities, businesses, organizations and individuals who help drive the success of the North Alabama tourism industry, which is a critical economic engine for the 16-county region, generating $4.7 billion in economic impact,” said Tami Reist, President/CEO of the Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Association. “Whether they are operating on the frontlines or from behind the scenes, these award recipients have done an exemplary job in delivering an exceptional visitor experience and have worked tirelessly to make North Alabama a place that people from all over choose to visit.”

Eleven awards were handed out at the awards presentation, held during the annual meeting. This year’s award winners are:

Organization of the Year

The Organization of the Year award is presented to the AMLA member organization that has contributed significantly to the betterment and development of tourism in North Alabama in the past year.

Winner: Bear Creek Development Authority  

Event of the Year

The Event of the Year award is presented to the AMLA member special event or festival that has made a great contribution to tourism in the past year.

Winner: Red Bay Founder’s Fest  

Attraction of the Year

The Attraction of the Year award is presented to the AMLA member attraction that has made a great contribution to tourism in the past year.

Winner:  Scottsboro Boys Museum

Good Neighbor Award

The “Good Neighbor” Friend of Tourism Award is presented to a person or organization whose body of work has had a significant impact on tourism in the past year.

Winner: Good Culture Inc.

Northern Star Award

The Northern Star Award is presented to an individual, such as a ranger, guide and a front line employee, who has gone “above and beyond” expectations.

Winner: David Young, ranger, Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge

Young Professional of the Year Award

The Young Professional of the Year “Green Apple Award” is awarded to a person who has been in the tourism business less than seven years and has exhibited extraordinary leadership skills and initiative associated with their position.

Winner: Lillie Beth Warner, director of communications, Decatur Morgan County Tourism  

Tourism Professional of the Year

The Tourism Professional of the Year award is presented to an individual or employee of an AMLA member organization who has made a great contribution to tourism in the past year.

Winner: Dr. Kimberly Robinson, CEO & executive director, U.S. Space & Rocket Center  

Lasting Impression Award

The Lasting Impression Award is presented to an attraction, event, person or organization that has provided a “lasting impression” on tourists thereby improving the overall image of tourism in North Alabama. 

Winner: Camp Courage , A Helen Keller Experience

Chairman’s Cup

The Chairman’s Cup Award is given annually to a travel writer or media person who has over time demonstrated support of AMLA, the region and its tourism activities.

Winner: Lisa Battles, travelwriter, Decatur, Ala. 

President’s Award

The President’s Award is presented to any person or organization whose tourism-related project created awareness or presented a positive image for North Alabama in the past year.

Winners: Gil Langley, former AMLA executive director & Lee Sentell, director, Alabama Tourism Department

North Alabama Ambassador of the Year

The award recognizes the work and achievements of a top performing North Alabama Ambassador in the past year.

Winner: Amy Mayfield , Huntsville, Ala. 

In addition to the PEAK Awards, six individuals have been named a North Alabama “String of Pearls” leader. The “String of Pearl Leaders” award was created to recognize North Alabama’s cornerstone professionals in the tourism and travel industry. In 1960, Dick Ordway, Decatur Chamber of Commerce Director and one of the visionaries and founders of AMLA said, “Even back then we saw North Alabama had a number of quality destinations laid out across the region next to the Tennessee River like a string of pearls.” His efforts were the cornerstone for the creation of AMLA and his vision is what the “string of pearls” recognition is based on. Honorees are:

Sandy Thompson, Alabama Veterans Museum

Jennifer Moore, Huntsville/Madison County Convention and Visitors Bureau

Cassie Medley, Franklin County Chamber of Commerce

Nanda Patel, Gallery at 808

Teresa White Taylor, Yedla Management Company

Drew Green, Cullman County Museum (retired)

Images of award recipients are available upon request by calling AMLA at 800.648.5381 or by sending an email to [email protected] .

About Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Association (AMLA)

AMLA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the promotion and development of the $4.7 billion North Alabama travel industry within the 16 northernmost counties of the state. It is supported by 500-plus members consisting of chambers of commerce, Convention & Visitors Bureaus, attractions, campgrounds, festivals, communities, golf courses, restaurants, accommodations and vendors. Counties included within the AMLA region are Blount, Cherokee, Colbert, Cullman, DeKalb, Etowah, Franklin, Jackson, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Limestone, Madison, Marion, Marshall, Morgan and Winston. Additional information on North Alabama destinations, accommodations and special events is available by calling 800.648.5381, by visiting www.NorthAlabama.org and by following us on social media @VisitNorthAL.

Karen Beasley

Karen is the director of marketing and communications for the Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Association (AMLA) where she works collaboratively with President/CEO Tami Reist to guide the organization’s marketing and communications activities and operations in an effort to position the North Alabama region as a must-experience destination for leisure travel.

She has over 27 years of marketing and public relations experience, most recently working as a freelance public relations consultant for tourism organizations and festivals throughout north Alabama and in Tennessee prior to coming to AMLA.

She holds a B.S. degree in marketing and an MBA from the University of North Alabama. A lifelong Roll Tide fan, she resides in Decatur, Ala. but now spends some of her time, along with too much money, in another area of the state known as "the Plains." She has two children, Keller, who is completing an online degree through the University of North Alabama; and Logan, a sophomore at Auburn University.

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