When it comes to charming Southern escapes, Alabama is home to an array of unforgettable destinations — each offering its own unique blend of scenic beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. From bustling college towns to serene waterfront retreats, Alabama has something for every type of traveler.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, here are six destinations in Alabama that deserve a spot on your travel list — Wetumpka, Auburn-Opelika, North Alabama, Cullman, Alabama Scenic River Trail, and Fairhope.
WETUMPKA
Affectionately known as “The City of Natural Beauty,” Wetumpka is nestled along the scenic banks of the Coosa River. This charming town offers the perfect blend of historic landmarks, outdoor adventures, and delicious cuisine.
Begin your journey in Downtown Wetumpka by stopping into Company St. Mercantile, a beloved shop offering stylish apparel, pantry staples, perfumes, and tea towels.
Just up the street, discover Sweet Home Books. This independent bookstore offers a wide selection of titles and regularly hosts events with authors from Alabama and beyond.
For a caffeinated pick-me-up, visit Restoration Coffee House. Located in the historic Bank of Wetumpka building, savor handcrafted coffee, specialty drinks, locally baked goods, and the charm of a bygone era.
As one of Alabama’s most developed rivers, the Coosa River is the heart of Wetumpka’s natural beauty and outdoor recreation. Whether you’re kayaking or fishing, there’s no better way to enjoy the river’s natural beauty.
Coosa River Adventures offers kayak rentals and transportation, making it easy to paddle through the picturesque waters and experience stunning views.
For those seeking exercise, the Swayback Bridge Trail offers an 8.7-mile loop with riverfront vistas for hiking, biking, or running.
Wetumpka has shined on the big and small screen, most famously serving as the backdrop for Tim Burton’s Big Fish. Other notable films shot here include The Rosa Parks Story, Spike Lee’s Son of the South, and Truman Capote’s The Grass Harp.
Before leaving town, grab a bite to eat at Copper House Deli, a cozy spot known for fresh, made-to-order sandwiches, hearty soups, and daily specials. For a more upscale option, Taste at the Fain and Our Place Cafe are both popular restaurants offering delicious fare.
AUBURN-OPELIKA
As the home of landmarks like the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail and Auburn University, Auburn-Opelika offers the perfect blend of small-town charm and lively spirit. From historic downtowns and outdoor adventure to an award-winning culinary scene, a getaway to Auburn-Opelika has something for every traveler.
To begin your adventures, spend an afternoon exploring each city’s charming downtown district. Behind the Glass, a popular clothing and lifestyle store, has been a staple of downtown Auburn for over 30 years.
Meanwhile, stop into The Gallery on Railroad in Opelika to see a unique collection of local and regional art. In addition to traditional canvas art pieces, you’ll find an array of accessories, homewares, and gifts.
For a unique dining experience, the food scene in Auburn-Opelika is overflowing with options — including Auburn University’s Tony & Libba Rane Culinary Science Center. The center, known for its innovative programming, hosts undergraduate and graduate students interested in culinary and hospitality careers.
During your visit, you’re invited to dine at the center’s teaching restaurant, 1856 – Culinary Residence. The restaurant offers an ever-changing menu, as it operates under a rotating chef-in-residence program.
SB Tip: The center is also home to The Laurel, a teaching hotel for hospitality and culinary staff. Make your visit to Auburn-Opelika an overnight one by booking a room here!
For elevated Southern fare, The Grille at Botanic offers a menu full of delicious staples, including its Marry Me Three Cheese Tortellini and Red Wine Braised Short Ribs. Don’t skip a piece of homemade pie for dessert!
Another popular restaurant, The Waverly Local, is just a short drive from Auburn. Set in a rustic-chic atmosphere, you’ll find farm-fresh dishes like Ribeye Chili and Roasted Ranch Pork.
Auburn-Opelika is also surrounded by beautiful parks and green spaces. The popular Chewacla State Park invites you to hike scenic trails, swim in the lake, or explore nearby waterfalls.
For golf enthusiasts, Grand National is part of the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. It offers challenging courses with stunning lakeside views. Depending on when you visit, you’re likely to see beautiful flowers and greenery!
NORTH ALABAMA
For a getaway full of music history, authentic barbecue, and one iconic Southern retail destination, North Alabama offers a bit of everything. Here are a few highlights!
Home to Muscle Shoals — also known as the “Hit Recording Capital of the World” — no trip to North Alabama is complete without exploring the area’s most legendary recording studios. Created in 1959, FAME Studios was Alabama’s first successful recording studio. Today, visitors are invited to tour the studio’s publishing office and founder Rick Hall’s office.
Muscle Shoals Sound is another popular recording studio. Featuring retro decor from the 1970s, you can explore the space where artists like The Rolling Stones and Paul Simon recorded some of their most well-known songs.
In addition to its rich music history, North Alabama also offers a few unique “only found here” attractions. Unclaimed Baggage is the nation’s only retailer of lost luggage, while the U.S. Space & Rocket Center offers the world’s only space camp.
Once you’ve worked up an appetite, North Alabama offers a unique take on classic barbecue, mainly thanks to the white sauce created by Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q. A beloved favorite since 1925, it makes an irresistible addition to barbecued meat, slaw, and potato salad.
For a breath of fresh air, spend the afternoon at a few serene escapes. The Bankhead National Forest offers over 90 miles of recreational trails, while Little River Canyon boasts peaceful scenes of forests, waterfalls, and canyons.
Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge is another sought-after outdoor attraction. It offers homes for and protects 12 federally endangered animals, including waterfowl, cranes, ducks, and fish.
To make the most of your North Alabama vacation, book an overnight stay at one of its unique lodging options. GunRunner in Downtown Florence is a music-themed boutique hotel offering well-appointed guest rooms.
North Alabama also has several dozen resort-style rentals, ranging from treehouses to glamping tents and charming tiny homes. To view available options, click HERE.
CULLMAN
Nestled in the heart of North Alabama, Cullman combines small-town Southern charm with German heritage, making it a unique cultural destination. In fact, the city was recently ranked number three on USA Today’s list of “Best Small Town Cultural Scenes.”
Founded by German immigrants in the 1870s, the historic influence is still visible in the city’s architecture and annual Oktoberfest celebration, which is one of the most authentic in the Southeast.
Downtown Cullman features well-preserved historic buildings and a thriving main street with local shops, boutiques, and restaurants. The Germanfest Garten, a tribute to the city’s heritage, hosts events throughout the year. Food enthusiasts should try Johnny’s Bar-B-Q, recently named “Business of the Year” by the Business Council of Alabama.
During the Christmas season, the city transforms into a winter wonderland, thanks to the Cullman Christkindlemarkt. The event is the largest German Christmas market in the nation. For the ultimate holiday celebration, pair the Cullman Christkindlmarkt with a visit to Smith Lake (more on this lake soon!), Ave Maria Grotto, and Sportsman Lake Park for beautiful Christmas light displays. It’s sure to be an unforgettable Christmas experience!
If you’re visiting Cullman in the summer, make plans to attend Rock The South. Dubbed “The Biggest Party in the South,” the annual music festival has hosted well-known artists like Eric Church, HARDY, and Jelly Roll.
Nature lovers can explore Smith Lake, one of Alabama’s clearest and deepest lakes, perfect for fishing, boating, and swimming. Throughout the year, the lake also offers many Bassmaster and Major League fishing tournaments. Be sure to also visit the nearby Goat Island Brewing and Sipesy Vineyard and Winery after a fun-filled day on the water!
SB Tip: To make a weekend of your Cullman adventures, Smith Lake also offers glamping sites and cabins for rent.Â
For more water-related fun, spend an afternoon at WildWater, a newly opened waterpark with a 22,000-square-foot wave pool, 10 thrill rides, a kid’s splash area with slides, and a lazy river.
ALABAMA SCENIC RIVER TRAIL
As the longest and most diverse river trail in a single state, the Alabama Scenic River Trail (ASRT) spans over 5,300 miles of waterways, offering a variety of lakes, creeks, and rivers.
With over 80 official stops, the trail is divided into three sections — calm flat waters, urban river paths, and whitewater rapids. This ensures travelers of all skill levels can enjoy the trail. No matter which option you choose, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of scenic bluffs, thick forests, and native wildlife.
To begin planning your adventures, visit the ASRT website to peruse the map and office Paddle Planner. The trail also offers an easy-to-use mobile website, so you can continue to explore the trail in real-time during your adventures.
Popular stops along the trail include Wetumpka’s aforementioned Coosa River, the Tallapoosa River near Lake Martin, the Cahaba River, and the Tennessee River near Florence.
While the ASRT is most popular among paddlers for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding, it also provides ample fishing opportunities. The Tallapoosa River, Alabama River, and Black Warrior River are all popular among anglers, offering species like bass, catfish, and crappie.
With so many stops to explore, the trail also has multiple campsites for visitors to stay overnight. For example, Wind Creek State Park is nestled along the shores of Lake Martin and Tallapoosa River. Amenities include full-hookup RV sites, tent camping sites, cabins, and boat launches.
For a more remote camping experience, the Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge near Centreville is slightly off the beaten path. Offering primitive campsites and easy access to the scenic Cahaba River, the refuge is also popular among birdwatchers.
If you’d prefer to be guided around the trail by a professional, there are a handful of local outfitters that ASRT recommends for guided tours. Whether you want to enjoy a boating or fishing excursion, view the extensive list of recommendations HERE.
FAIRHOPE
Situated on the banks of Mobile Bay, Fairhope is a picturesque destination known for its vibrant downtown district, outdoor adventures, and thriving culinary scene. With so much to do and see, it’s no wonder Southern Living has named Fairhope one of “The South’s Best Small Towns.”
For a quintessential small-town experience, spend an afternoon strolling through Downtown Fairhope. In addition to tree-lined streets and gorgeous historic buildings, you’ll also find a variety of local boutiques, art galleries, and antique shops.
A third-generation family-owned bookstore, Page & Palette offers so much more than books. You can also visit Latte Da Cafe for a cup of coffee or The Book Cellar for wine, beer, and craft cocktails.
Known for gifts and apparel, stop by The Fairhope Store or Jubilee Gift Shop to pick up a souvenir or two to remember your visit. You’ll find everything from t-shirts to hats and sweatshirts.
For more clothing and accessories, M&F Casuals, CK Collection, and Adrenaline are local boutiques that offer a bit of everything.
If it’s outdoor fun you’re looking for, Fairhope’s location on Mobile Bay means there are ample opportunities to get outside. The Fairhope Municipal Pier is an excellent spot for fishing or enjoying a picnic at sunset.
To get out on the water, visit the Beach Park Tree Trail, where you can paddleboard or kayak along the bay. The park also offers scenic trails that are ideal for leisurely afternoon strolls.
After a jam-packed day, treat yourself to a delicious meal at any of Fairhope’s local restaurants. For an upscale meal in a cozy setting, The Wash House serves Southern-inspired coastal cuisine alongside an extensive menu of craft cocktails.
Locals and Panini Pete’s are both great options for a more laid-back meal. Their menus offer coastal cuisine and classic American fare.
Enjoy your adventures!
This article is sponsored by Auburn-Opelika Tourism, Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Association, City of Wetumpka, and Visit Cullman.
