historical places to visit in north alabama

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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.

Exploring Cullman: One of north Alabama’s most unique Southern outings

The best old downtowns in north Alabama are pretty similar from a historic places perspective. Most of them feature handsome, two-story 1870- to 1910-era homes, churches and commercial buildings. Most have interesting old train depots and some other landmarks that can compel you to imagine life in pioneer days. At the same time, each one has a few features that give them their unique, individual sense of place. In that regard, Cullman may be north Alabama ’ s most unique small city.

When I think about Athens, I think about how a lovely, old college is within walking distance of its historic downtown. When I think of Guntersville or Scottsboro, the big lake comes to mind. For Fort Payne, it’s Lookout Mountain and the nostalgic vibe of Gault Avenue. But when I think of Cullman, it’s monks, miniature replicas of international religious landmarks, a spectacular Catholic church and  “ Die Deutsche Kolonie Von Nord Alabama ”  that  come to mind.

That’s different.

The Ave Maria Grotto , where the miniature replicas of international religious landmarks are found, is well known in the region. It’s the city’s number one tourist attraction when it comes to drawing visitors from other states and countries. But there’s a lot more to see in Cullman, particularly if you are a historic-places enthusiast.

See Gallery: Ave Maria Grotto  for details and over 40 photos.

Another factor that makes Cullman very unique among small north Alabama cities is how five small bridges carry downtown traffic over the sunken railroad track that passes through the heart of downtown. The track was lowered 30 feet below street level in the early 1910s. As a result, passing trains don ’ t impact the movement of traffic on those five streets. Furthermore, the canopy of trees over the track in that area makes it feel like there are two separate historic downtowns with 1st Avenue S.E. as the main street of one and 2nd Street S.W. as the main street of the other. 

Downtown Cullman suffered a great deal of destruction during the April 27, 2011 tornado super outbreak. Hundreds of homes, dozens of commercial buildings and several churches were damaged by an EF-4 twister that day, and many of the places that were completely destroyed were historic structures.

In the years since the tornado, the city has recovered amazingly. It’s still just as beautiful as ever, but it looks very different with so many of the big trees missing and a few barren lots where homes or shops once stood.

Here’s a before and after example of how the storm affected a formerly tree-filled part of the residential historic area:

Shown, from left: The c. 1898 Gist House in 1984 and how it appeared in May 2020.

The mostly-commercial  Cullman Downtown Commercial Historic District , as it was listed with the National Register in 1985, contains two complete blocks and parts of six other blocks on the east side of the railroad track.

The tornado swept across the east part of the district and there are many new buildings that replaced some that were lost in the storm. They fit in nicely alongside their remaining 100 year old neighbors.

The district includes 1st Avenue S.E. which appears to be a very popular part of town when it comes to enjoying locally-owned restaurants, boutiques, gift shops and more.

One 1st Ave. S.E. block includes the c. 1890s  Stiefelmeyer’s Building . The only remaining wood frame historic commercial building remaining in Cullman, it was individually listed with the  National Register of Historic Places in 1983 .

Some other visual highlights of the Downtown Commercial Historic District

Shown from top left: First United Methodist Church (c. 1924); Former Federal Building/Post Office (c. 1914); c. 1911 Fisher Building, center; 4th Street S.E. scene; 2nd Avenue S.E. scene; 1st Street scene; 1st Avenue S.E. scene; 1st Avenue S.E. scene; 1st Avenue S.E. scene; c. 1918 Drug Store Building; 1901-1905 German Bank Building, left, and 1894 Cullman Ice Co.; 1st Avenue S.E. scene; and the c. 1873 Weiss House, which was moved to 1st Avenue S.E. park in 1976.

NOTE: As far as buildings are concerned, the c. 1911 Fuller Brothers Ford Dealership Building was perhaps this district’s biggest loss on the day of the 2011 tornado. At the time of storm, a furniture/home furnishings store known as Little Bit of Everything was at the location. The owners built a new building that is similar in size to the old one. But now it’s home to a popular local restaurant, All Steak. See  allsteakrestaurant.com .

Pictured: The c. 1911 Ford dealership building following the storm (Source: https://www.weather.gov/hun/4272011_cullman_county ); and how the site appeared in May 2020.

The other side of the tracks

As I mentioned above, it’s like a second downtown on the other side of the tracks. Here’s a few photos from 2nd Street S.W.:

Just outside of the registered district, the Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church (the sanctuary is c. 1916) is a monumental structure that you need to see if you are visiting downtown Cullman to see historic buildings or places of worship, or to study architecture. It’s one of the most amazing churches found in north Alabama. 

Fortunately, the 2011 tornado only damaged some of its windows.

On the north end of 1st Street S.E., the Cullman Warehouse District  (not part of any of the nationally- or state-registered districts), features a mixture of old and new red brick buildings that are home to shops selling clothing, baked goods, gifts, coffee and gourmet food. There’s also a spa or two, and a nice farmer’s market is next door.

Learn more at this retail shopping destination at  cullmanhistoricwarehousedistrict.com . 

A few other notable sites are within walking distance of the warehouse district. The train station, which was registered with the National Register in 1976 as the  Louisville and Nashville Railroad Depot , is next door to the farmers market. The Cullman County Museum   — a replica of the home of the city’s founder  — is a block away.

Shown: The Cullman County Museum, The Cullmann statue outside the museum and the c. 1913 train depot is currently home to The United Way.

Die Deutsche Kolonie Von Nord Alabama (the German Colony of North Alabama) was started by Johann G. Cullmann in 1873. He was a German immigrant who convinced a few German families from Cincinnati to help him start a new settlement in the dense forests of north Alabama.

Gallery: Cullman Historic District highlights

Historic houses and churches shown above include the Clisby-McKay-Humphrey-Stiefelmeyer-Allred House (c. 1880); the Carothers-Brown-Robertson-Clemmons House (c. 1887, remodeled 1910); the Rambo-Abt House (c. 1907); the Ruel-Moyer House (c. 1903); the Leeth-Costos-Eidson-Bownes House (c. 1930) and more.

NOTE: Part of this district and one of Cullman’s oldest remaining homes, the c. 1877 Parker-Hutchens House, was destroyed by the 2011 tornado. It had stood for 134 years at the corner of 3rd Street S.E. and 6th Avenue S.E. The lot is currently empty.

Gallery: Betz Addition Historic District highlights

As is almost always the case in a city with a great historic downtown, there are other structures of interest scattered about. Here are a few that I found on my recent visit that I didn’t include in any of the above galleries:

Here’s a Google map that will take you from downtown to the bridge: Directions/map .

Historic downtown Hanceville is just a few miles to the south

If the Ave Maria Grotto, the multiple historic sites in downtown Cullman and the covered bridge do not fully satisfy your need for seeing old places, there’s more to see in nearby Hanceville. 

See a gallery with more photos of downtown Hanceville on this page: Gallery: Downtown Hanceville

Sources and inspiration for this article include the following: 

- Related applications to the National Register of Historic Places

-  cullmancountymuseum.com

-  visitcullman.org

- The ABC 33/40 Cullman Tornado Damage Arial video on YouTube

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10 Top Things to Do in Huntsville and North Alabama

Daderot / Wikimedia Commons / CC-BY-SA-3.0

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

Walter Bibikow / Getty Images 

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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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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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
• Things to do at night time in Huntsville Alabama
• Coffee shops in Huntsville Alabama
• Pizza shops in Huntsville Alabama
• Celebrating Juneteenth in Huntsville AL
• Huntsville AL Hotels

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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THE 10 BEST Alabama Sights & Historical Landmarks

Alabama landmarks.

• Points of Interest & Landmarks
• Historic Sites
• Churches & Cathedrals
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• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
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• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for a Rainy Day
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• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Adventurous
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• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park

2. Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum

Recommended Sightseeing Experiences (58)

3. National Memorial for Peace and Justice

4. Vulcan Park and Museum

5. Bellingrath Gardens & Home

6. FORT MORGAN HISTORIC SITE

7. Dexter Parsonage Museum - Dr. Martin Luther King home

8. Fairhope Municipal Pier

9. Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark

10. First White House of the Confederacy

11. Gulf State Park Fishing Pier

12. Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception

13. Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church

14. Fort Gaines

15. Ave Maria Grotto

16. Frank Lloyd Wright's Rosenbaum House

17. Talladega Superspeedway

18. Fairhope Avenue

19. Toomer's Corner

20. Civil Rights Memorial Center

21. Cheaha State Park

22. Bryant Denny Stadium

23. 16th Street Baptist Church

24. Edmund Pettus Bridge

25. Ivy Green

26. Alabama State Capitol

27. Rickwood Field Park

28. Dauphin Street

29. Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament

30. Regions Field

What travelers are saying

10 Historical Landmarks You Absolutely Must Visit In Alabama

Jennifer Young

More by this Author

Many historical events have taken place in Alabama. Fortunately, several historical landmarks are scattered throughout Alabama that allow us to learn all about the state’s history. Sure, reading about Alabama’s historical events and/or landmarks in a book is always an option, but nothing compares to seeing an actual landmark up close and in person. Listed below are 10 historical landmarks in Alabama that are definitely worth visiting.

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Have you visited any of these historical landmarks? What other historical landmarks in Alabama would you suggest visiting?

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Alabama History

Immerse yourself in the heart of Alabama's storied past, exploring its rich tapestry from the early days of Native American settlements to the pivotal roles it played in the Civil War. Alabama's history isn't just a series of events; it's a living narrative etched into the very soil of the state, from the historic battlefields to the sacred sites of ancient civilizations. Dive into Alabama's heritage at landmarks steeped in the tales of Civil Rights milestones, or walk the trails once trodden by the state's earliest inhabitants. Every corner of Alabama offers a window into moments that shaped not just the state, but the nation. Discover Alabama and witness how its historical landmarks, from the bustling streets of Birmingham to the serene landscapes of the Mobile Bay, continue to influence the fabric of American life today.

Discover Alabama: Historical Sites & Cultural Events

Uncover the richness of Alabama's history through engaging tours and cultural events. From exploring significant landmarks to following the paths of legendary figures, Alabama offers unparalleled historical experiences.

History Struggles and Triumphs: Alabama’s Role i...

Alabama has a rich and complex history within the Civil Rights Movement and has served as the focal point for pivotal events that shaped the fight for equal rights that shaped our nation.

Outdoors An Alabama (Travel) 2024 Bucket List

The new year is quickly approaching and so is the time for planning exciting trips and lots of fun adventures in the coming year. We invite you to embark on a journey through the heart of the Deep South as we unveil Alabama’s captivating travel bucket list for 2024.

History Road Trip Through History

Montgomery, Alabama, attracts visitors with its rich history and vibrant culture with a tapestry of civil rights landmarks. Visiting this Southern city promises a captivating experience that blends the old with the new.

History Alabama’s Hidden Gem: Scottsboro

Nestled in North Alabama at the tail end of the Appalachian Mountains is the small town of Scottsboro, Alabama.

History Hit the Road To Explore Gee’s Bend

In the Southwest rural corner of the state of Alabama, there is a small parcel of land called Gee’s Bend. Gee’s Bend is surrounded by the Alabama River and it is only accessible by ferry.

History Visit Alabama’s African American Histori...

Alabama played a critical role in shaping civil rights history. Key events that forged the state’s significance in how the movement advanced forward are forever ingrained in our lives, as a people and as a state.

Civil Rights Legacy MLK Day is a day for quiet reflection.

Next Monday, we celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr.’s birthday. The state of Alabama played a critical role in the Civil Rights Movement.

History Plan a Fun-Filled Family Getaway.

With the holidays upon us and kids are on a break from school, you may have more time on your hands than you know what to do with. Instead of waiting for school to start again, why not use this time to escape the hustle and bustle of the season.

History One of Alabama’s Most Haunted Historical...

The City of Selma is one of Alabama’s most historic as well as one of its most haunted. Ghost hunters have discovered that the region has a lot of paranormal activity because of the region's Native American and Civil War history.

History Plan Your Road Trip Through Alabama’s Re...

The Red Hills region of Alabama is known as the Black Belt because its rich, black soil made the area a prime location for growing cotton. This made the region one of the prime locations for commerce for the state in the 1800s.

History Take in all Tuscaloosa has to Offer this...

The West Alabama city of Tuscaloosa is steeped in history. The city was named after the great Choctaw Chief Black Warrior, and it was incorporated into Alabama’s territory a day before Congress admitted Alabama as a state in 1819.

Civil Rights Legacy Podcast Tells History of the Civil Right...

The Alabama Tourism Department's new Civil Rights Trail podcast takes you behind the scenes of the Civil Rights Movement. The three-part series will introduce listeners to the people, places and events that played a role in the movement and which ultimately shaped a nation.

Arts and Culture Free Attractions in Sweet Home Alabama

From immersing yourself in the arts to diving into history, there are plenty of things to do in Sweet Home Alabama that won’t cost you a dime. Check out some of the state’s top free destinations:

Civil Rights Legacy Tour the Alabama Civil Rights Trail

The U.S. Civil Rights Trail features locations from 14 states that continue to play an important role in the fight for civil rights. Alabama is home to 30 stops along the U.S. Civil Rights Trail, and each one tells the stories and retraces the steps of civil rights trailblazers...

History The Most Haunted Places in Alabama

Everyone loves a good ghost story, and Sweet Home Alabama has plenty of them. From North Alabama to South Alabama, the state has its fair share of bone-chilling haunts, and we’re bringing you five that you can explore for a hauntingly-good time. Read on, if you dare….

History Covered Bridges of Sweet Home Alabama

Alabama is home to an impressive collection of covered bridges, many of which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Featured Locations & Events

Whether it's enlightening your mind to our state's past or walking in the footsteps of iconic figures, Alabama has some of the greatest history experiences waiting for you.

Alabama Constitution Hall Historic Park & Museum

Moundville Archaeological Park

Alabama State Capitol

Fort Morgan State Historic Site

National Veterans Day Parade

Upcoming events.

Before planning your trip, be sure to check out upcoming events!

Dixie Division Military Vehicle Show

French and Indian War Encampment

Civil War Living History & Saturday Skirmish

2024 Berry Heritage Festival

47th annual geneva festival on the rivers, 39th annual silverhill heritage day festival, landmarks & museums.

Explore these attractions and more when you visit our historical destinations.

Bragg-Mitchell Mansion

Richards-DAR House Museum

Helen Keller's Birthplace and Home

First White House of the Confederacy

Confederate Memorial Park

Find an Alabama History Experience

Hit the road, with an Alabama Road Trip

Henagar: The Sound of (Sacred Harp) Music

On this road trip, you will hear the sound so associated with the South of the Civil War period and see the town where Sacred Harp songs were recorded for the movie Cold Mountain.

Take Off on Alabama’s Aviation Road Trip

Point your compass to sites around Alabama where generations of creative minds dreamed of soaring high above the earth.

Fort Payne: The View From Lookout Mountain

The largest city along the Alabama portion of the Lookout Mountain Parkway is Fort Payne.

Alabama Road Trip App for iOS & Android

Alabama Civil Rights Trail App

Discover America's civil rights history with the Alabama Civil Rights Trail App, your digital passport to over 60 years of heroic struggles and triumphs across Alabama's 67 counties. This innovative app not only guides you to historic destinations but also immerses you in the profound stories and cultural significance behind each site.

#SweetHomeAlabama

Share your vacation shots using our hashtag on Instagram  for your chance to be featured.

Find Your Alabama Sweet Spot

Find the sweetest Alabama vacation spot perfectly suited just for you. Customize your next Alabama vacation by the type of experience you are looking for, then filter by the region of Alabama you want to visit. Don't know what your Alabama destination should be? Let our interactive location map be your guide. Now, where is your next Alabama Sweet Spot?

Alabama Southern Community College Literary Courtyard

Cornwall Furnace Park

Scenethat Tours

Camellia Palms Quilt Retreat Center

Dothan Civic Center

Fort Mitchell Pioneer Day and Quilt Show 2024

2024 weogufka mule day, north court & seminary st. walking tour, was this page helpful.

Everything Alabama has to offer —in one easy place!

Looking for information on state parks, hot spots to have fun in the sun, or the best places for fishing or bird-watching? How about the world’s best museums or science centers? The Alabama Vacation guide will help you discover so many new and unique experiences. No matter where you’re headed or what you feel like doing, the Alabama vacation guide will get started on the right path.

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

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Top 18 Historical Sites in Alabama [Update 2024]

Alabama has witnessed several historical occurrences. Fortunately, numerous historical sites dispersed around Alabama allow us to learn everything there is to know about the state’s past. History aficionados will like everything Alabama has to offer, from iconic Civil Rights Movement monuments to World War II-era ships and some of the country’s oldest churches.

Although reading about Alabama’s historical events and sites in a book is always an option, nothing beats experiencing them up and personal. These following historical sites in Alabama that are well worth visiting.

1. Bethel Baptist Church, Birmingham

(View on Map)

Bethel Baptist Church is a historic church in Birmingham, Alabama’s which the first historical site in the Alabama Collegeville area. The Alabama Christian Movement for Human Rights (ACMHR), founded by Fred Shuttlesworth and active in Birmingham during the Civil Rights Movement, had its headquarters at the church from 1956 until 1961.

The church, which was completed in 1926, is a unique architectural blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles. The guardhouse and parsonage are vernacular ranch-style homes; the parsonage was erected in 1957 to replace the former parsonage, which was adjacent to the church and was bombed out in 1956. 

You can get to know more about the oldest churches of US from this article .

2. Ivy Green, Tuscumbia

Ivy Green is a historic home museum in Tuscumbia, Alabama, located at 300 West North Commons. Helen Keller (1880–1968), the famed deaf-blind author and speaker, was born and raised in this house, which was built in 1820. It is currently a public museum and a National Historic Landmark commemorating Keller’s life. Helen Keller, a lady born deaf and blind who learnt to communicate via her instructor Anne Sullivan, was born in Ivy Green. By strolling about the property, you may get a sense of the interesting and inspiring narrative.

3. The U.S.S. Alabama, Mobile

The USS Alabama is a historical site in Alabama that was commissioned in 1942 and fought in the Pacific Theater during WWII. After participating in over 26 battles with the Japanese, the ship is one of just two remaining ships from this force. In 1943, she began her World War II exploits in the North Atlantic and then moved to the South Pacific. She ended up as a National Historic Landmark and a memorial to millions in Mobile, Alabama.

The National Historic Landmark WWII submarine USS DRUM sits in her cradle beside Mobile Bay (SS-228). The DRUM is the world’s oldest publically displayed American submarine. The Medal of Honor Aircraft Pavilion, located in the Battleship Memorial Park, houses a significant aircraft collection, vintage vehicles, and military memorabilia.

Check out the best museums in Alabama .

4. Bryce Hospital, Tuscaloosa

Bryce Hospital which is a known historical place in Alabama, first opened its doors in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, in 1861. It is the state’s oldest and largest psychiatric hospital. The structure is regarded as an architectural model. It was once known as the Alabama State Hospital for the Insane and subsequently as the Alabama Insane Hospital.

The hospital now has 268 beds for full-time (committed) patients who require acute care, treatment, and rehabilitation. A sister institution on the same property, the Mary Starke Harper Geriatric Psychiatry Hospital, provides an additional 100 beds for inpatient geriatric treatment. In 1977, the main structure was listed to the National Register of Historic Places.

5. Foster Auditorium, Tuscaloosa

On April 5, 2005, Foster Auditorium was designated as a National Historic Landmark. Foster Auditorium is most known for the “Stand in the Schoolhouse Door” incident, which occurred there more than any other event. The “Stand in the Schoolhouse Door” event took place at Foster Auditorium. Governor George C. Wallace stood at the doorway of the institution on the day of registration on June 11, 1963, making good on a campaign promise not to allow integration of the university as he was attempting to block two black students.

However, he failed to do so and had to step aside as he was pressurized by the federal government, Deputy United States Attorney general and others. The episode is seen as a watershed moment in the American Civil Rights Movement. In the 1994 film Forrest Gump, the scene was depicted (with artistic liberties used). The structure is a multi-purpose facility at Tuscaloosa, Alabama’s University of Alabama.

6. Moundville Archaeological Site, Moundville

The Moundville Archaeological Site, also known as the Moundville Archaeological Park, is a Mississippian culture archaeological site in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, on the Black Warrior River. Between the 11th and 16th centuries, the site was the political and ceremonial capital of a regionally structured Mississippian culture chiefdom polity, according to extensive archaeological study. The University of Alabama Museums manages the archaeological park component of the site, which spans 185 acres (75 ha) and includes 29 platform mounds arranged around a rectangular plaza.

In 1964, the site was designated as a National Historic Landmark, and in 1966, it was included in the National Register of Historic Places. 

After Cahokia in Illinois, Moundville is the second-largest site in the United States from the classic Middle Mississippian period. The culture was manifested in towns and chiefdoms over the middle Mississippi River Valley, the lower Ohio River Valley, and much of the Mid-South, including Kentucky, Tennessee, Alabama, and Mississippi, which formed the core of the classic Mississippian cultural region.  A museum and an archaeological laboratory are located in the park.

You might also like to visit these waterfalls in the Alabama .

7. Gaineswood, Demopolis

Another well known historical place in Alabama is Gaineswood. It is known as a plantation home which is located near Demopolis, Alabama. It is the most opulent plantation home ever erected in Marengo County and one of Alabama’s most important examples of Greek Revival architecture.The house was erected using the proceeds of forced labour, and enslaved workers did the majority of the work. After nearly 20 years of construction, it was finished on the eve of the American Civil War.

The Alabama Historical Commission is now running the house and grounds as a historic house museum.

8. Henry D. Clayton Home, Clayton

Henry De Lamar Clayton, Jr. (1857-1929), a lawmaker and judge, was born and raised at the Henry D. Clayton House, a historic plantation house in Clayton, Alabama. Clayton rose to fame as the architect of the Clayton Antitrust Act of 1914 while sitting in the United States Congress. This statute made it illegal to engage in certain forms of behaviour that were judged to be detrimental to a competitive market.

In 1914, he was appointed as a Federal District Judge, where he became known as a proponent of judicial reform. His father, Confederate General Henry DeLamar Clayton, Sr., erected the mansion. On December 8 1976, it was designated as a National Historic Landmark.

9. Dexter Avenue Baptist Church, Montgomery

Dexter Avenue Baptist Church is a Progressive National Baptist Convention-affiliated Baptist church in Montgomery which is an important historical place in Alabama. Because of its significance in the civil rights struggle and American history, the church was recognized as a National Historic Landmark in 1974.

The formal name was changed to the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church in 1978 in honour of Dr Martin Luther King Jr., who served as pastor there and was instrumental in organizing the Montgomery bus boycott in 1955 during the civil rights period. The Alabama State Capitol is just a short distance away from the chapel. 

Because of its historical significance, the US government submitted the church to UNESCO on January 1, 2008, as part of a planned future World Heritage Site proposal. The UNESCO “Tentative List of World Heritage Sites” includes it.

10. Kelly Ingram Park, Birmingham

Kelly Ingram Park, originally known as West Park, is a four-acre (1.6-hectare) park in Birmingham, Alabama. The Birmingham Civil Rights District is defined by 16th and 17th Streets, as well as 5th and 6th Avenues North. During the American Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s, the park, located just outside the doors of the 16th Street Baptist Church, served as a key staging area for large-scale protests. The events that unfolded in Kelly Ingram Park depicted the realities of police dogs and fire hoses being used against civil rights activists in the 1960s. 

In 1932, the park was named for local fireman Osmond Kelly Ingram, who was the first US Navy sailor killed in World War I. To coincide with the establishment of the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, an interpretative museum and research centre, which adjoins the park to the west, it was entirely restored and rededicated in 1992 as “A Place of Revolution and Reconciliation.”

11. Houston Historic Jail, Houston

The Houston Jail is a historic place in Houston, Alabama, in Winston County. On June 5, 1975, it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The structure is the only known remaining log prison in the state, as well as the sole public structure from when the county seat was in Houston. Architectural historians believe it was erected about 1868, at the same time as the now-destroyed courthouse was built.

Houston was designated as the seat in 1858, but the minutes of a grand jury meeting in 1867 said that a courtroom and jail were needed. Houston shrank to the little unincorporated hamlet it is today when the county seat was transferred to Double Springs in 1884.

12. Stevenson Railroad Depot, Stevenson

In Stevenson, Alabama, the Stevenson Railroad Depot and Hotel is a historic railroad station and hotel. The Memphis and Charleston Railroad and the Nashville and Chattanooga Railroad, whose routes met at Stevenson, collaborated on the project in 1872.

When the Southern Railway bought the Memphis & Charleston in 1898, the Louisville and Nashville Railroad (which had bought the N&C in 1880) took over the terminal and ran it until 1976. In 1982, it was transformed into a historical museum. Both structures are made of brick and have gable roofs with Italianate features. In 1887, a central, second-story tower was erected to the depot.

The first floor of the three-story hotel included a lobby, dining area, and kitchen, with the higher floors housing eight spacious guest rooms. In 1975, the structures were included in the Alabama Register of Landmarks and Heritage, and in 1976, they were added to the National Register of Historic Places.

13. Richards-DAR House, Mobile

The Richards DAR Home, located in Mobile, Alabama, is a historic house museum. For Charles and Caroline Richards, the Italianate-style home was constructed in 1860. The De Tonti Square Historic District, which was added to the National Register of Historic Places on February 7, 1972, is a contributing property.

The home is jointly operated and maintained by Mobile’s four Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) chapters. Architectural historians consider it to be one of Mobile’s most well-preserved and ornate examples of mid-nineteenth-century residential architecture.

14. Fort Morgan – Fort Morgan

Fort Morgan is a historic brick pentagonal bastion fort located near the entrance of Mobile Bay in Alabama. It was erected on the site of the older Fort Bowyer, an earthen and stockade style fortress involved in the final ground engagements of the War of 1812. It was named after Revolutionary War hero Daniel Morgan. The fort was finished in 1834, and the first garrison arrived in March of that year.

Fort Morgan is located at the western end of State Route 180, at the tip of Mobile Point (Alabama). Mobile Bay is surrounded by it and Dauphin Island, which is home to Fort Gaines. The site is maintained by the Alabama Historical Commission.

15. Union Station – Montgomery

In Montgomery, Alabama, the Montgomery Union Station and Trainshed is a historic old railroad station. Rail service to the station, which was built in 1898 by the Louisville and Nashville Railroad, terminated in 1979, and it has subsequently been converted for use by the Montgomery Area Visitor Center and commercial tenants. In 1973, it was included on the National Register of Historic Places, and in 1976, it was designated as a National Historic Landmark.

16. Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark

Sloss Furnaces is a National Historic Landmark located in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. From 1882 to 1971, it was a pig iron-producing blast furnace.

17. Helen Keller Birthplace

Ivy Green is a historic house museum located at 300 West North Commons in Tuscumbia, Alabama. It was built in 1820 and served as the birthplace and childhood home of Helen Keller, who rose to prominence after overcoming deaf-blindness to communicate; she went on to become an author and public speaker.

18. The Edmund Pettus Bridge

In Selma, Alabama, the Edmund Pettus Bridge carries US Route 80 Business across the Alabama River. It was named after Edmund Pettus, a former Confederate brigadier general, U.S. senator, and state-level leader of the Alabama Ku Klux Klan, who died in 1940.

Alabama has a wide range of family-friendly places that are ideal for a summer day excursion. The state is rich in history, and there’s no better way to learn about it than by visiting some of the most intriguing historical places in the state. Several Alabama communities that saw historic events are still prospering today. Some of these communities are also among the state’s oldest.

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• 16 Best Museums in Alabama that You MUST Visit in 2024
• 18 Best Places to Visit in Alabama [Update 2024]
• 11 Oldest Churches in the US [Update 2024]
• Top 12 National Parks in Alabama You MUST Visit…
• 18 Wonderful Tourist Attractions in Georgia [Update 2024]

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10 Things To Do In North Alabama This Weekend: Map And List

Table of Contents

Introduction of North Alabama Tourist Places

North Album is a region full of natural beauty and unique charm that attracts tourists and new couples to visit this place. If you are confused about things to do in North Alabama this weekend , here you will get complete information.

The US Space and Rocket Center is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the state of Alabama, located in the northern part of the state. It is the best tourist destination to experience space travel through interactive exhibits and simulators.

Visit the Most Popular Tourist Attraction in North Alabama This Weekend

The state of Alabama has various scenic historical and interesting tourist spots that you can visit anytime but the following is the list of best result places to visit this weekend.

Why Did You Choose to Visit the Best Places to Visit in North Alabama in 2023?

• Explore the stunning landscapes and natural attractions of North Alabama.
• Engage in a variety of outdoor recreational activities.
• Visit significant historic sites and landmarks.
• Immerse yourself in the diverse cultural heritage of the region.
• Experience a blend of urban and rural attractions for a memorable travel experience.

List of 10 Tourist Places in North Alabama

Looking for fun activities? Check out the Things To Do In North Alabama This weekend , there’s sure to be something for everyone!

1. Us Space and Rocket Center

• Best things to do: Visit the Space Camp and experience the virtual reality space missions.
• Best time to visit: April or May.
• Average Budget: $25 to $40 per person.
• Minimum Time spend: 4-6 hours.

The US Space and Rocket Center is a very important tourist attraction for tourists visiting the city of Huntsville for the first time. You can visit this place for a museum and education center. Tourists who are interested in space research visit this place in large numbers and enjoy space observation.

All the materials required for observing the space are available in this place, so the space can be observed well. There are many places to see this place, including the Space Shuttle, Rocket Park, IMAX Theater, and educational programs.

Space Shuttle 

After visiting this popular place you can explore the world’s only full-size replica of the space shuttle. The Space Shuttle was a NASA spacecraft used primarily to transport cargo into space from 1981 to 2011. A replica of the Space Shuttle at the American Space and Rocket Center is a model of the Space Shuttle Orbiter that you can see there.

Rocket park

Rocket Park at the American Space and Rocket Center is an outdoor exhibit that houses a collection of rockets and launch vehicles. After viewing this collection, you can study important materials used in space. It has a collection of machinery important to space exploration that you can visit.

IMAX Theater

You can enjoy state-of-the-art cinema at North Alabama’s IMAX theaters. You can enjoy immersive movies in this theater; it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the place.

If you’re looking for fun activities, there are plenty of things to do in North Alabama this weekend, such as visiting the US Space and Rocket Center or hiking at Monte Sano State Park.

2. Monte Sano State Park

• Best things to do: Hike the trails, and enjoy the scenic views.
• Best time to visit: October or November.
• Average Budget: $5 to $10
• Minimum Time spend: 2-3 hours.

Noccalula Falls Park is a must-see destination if you’re planning on exploring things to do in North Alabama this weekend.

Monte Sano State Park is the second most famous tourist destination in Alaba Maharaj. This part is famous all over the world for its scenic and peaceful environment. Couples from the state of Alabama flock to this place to spend their time in bliss.

As this park is situated in the lap of nature, there are mountains on all four sides which add to its beauty. You can enjoy high-king trekking and outdoor activities in the nearby mountains. The park has 18 miles of trails through which you can enjoy trekking through the forest. By using this trail you can have a different experience of experiencing the beauty of nature.

Due to such a peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty, not many tourists come to visit this place. There are a large number of couples among the tourists coming here, so this tourist spot is also visited as a romantic tourist spot. This park is included in the list of major scenic tourist spots in the states.

3. Noccalula Falls Park

Noccalula Falls Park is the best tourist destination for nature lovers and to visit with your loved one. Tourists from all over the state visit this tourist spot and it is the first choice destination for couples. This waterfall falls into a pit from a height of ninety feet.

You can enjoy swimming in the waterfall here but there are some restrictions you have to follow. This tourist destination will always be memorable for tourists who love exciting peaceful and beautiful tourist destinations.

You can visit this place to experience the beauty of nature and take photos. If you want to enjoy spending some blissful moments with your loved one then this tourist destination is for you.

• Best things to do: Explore the park and hike to the waterfall.
• Best time to visit: March or April
• Average Budget: $6 to $15 for per person and $20 to $50 for a family.

4. Cathedral Caverns State Park

• Best things to do: hike the trails, and have a picnic.
• Best time to visit: June to August.
• Average Budget: $15 to $25
• Minimum Time spends: 1-2 hours.

Another beautiful tourist destination in North Alabama is Cathedral Caverns State Park. This place has a 125 feet cave whose beautiful view you can see after visiting this tourist spot. This cave falls under the category of a “Baroque cave”.

The audience gets to see a beautiful and peaceful atmosphere in this Govi. After visiting this place, the audience is entertained by studying the environment of this place and this cave. You can see various stone artworks in this place which are famous in this place.

After seeing the activities in this place, your mind will be happy and happy. Tourists can be seen enjoying taking pictures at this place where there are unique rock formations.

Enjoying every tourist spot is great but enjoy sightseeing by following the rules. Enjoy the trip taking care not to cause any damage to the tourist spot.

The cave was owned by Jacob Gurley Gurley. After the 1950s, the cave was opened to tourists. Tourists visited this cave in large numbers so this place got the status of a tourist spot and later this place was taken over by the government of Alabama. After it was taken over by the Goa government, it was converted into a state park.

Apart from the caves in this instance, there are still tourist spots that you can enjoy by the water. After reaching this place you can enjoy the services of Hacking Trains Picnic Area and Camp Ground.

This tourist spot is open to tourists throughout the year, so you can go anytime to visit this tourist spot. Many pictures have been taken at this place, so many tourists enjoy taking photos at this place.

5. Huntsville Botanical Garden

• Best things to do: Stroll through the themed gardens.
• Best time to visit: May or June.
• Average Budget: $10 to $15.

Take in the beauty of nature at Huntsville Botanical Garden, a must-visit spot when considering things to do in North Alabama this weekend .

Huntsville Botanical Garden is another tourist attraction located very close to the US Space and Rocket Center. This garden is spread over an area of ​​112 and with grassy plains everywhere, tourists come from far and wide to see this tourist spot.

A collection of wetlands, forests, grasslands, and vegetation can be seen in this place, so tourists come to visit this tourist spot throughout the year.

Tourists throng this place in large numbers between the months of May to October as the atmosphere of this place is especially beautiful during this month. If you also want to experience the special beauty of this place, visit this garden during the month of May to October.

During the holiday of December, the Galaxy of Lights installation brings a spectacular display of over a million Christmas lights, so you can visit this tourist destination even in the month of December and enjoy the magnificent atmosphere of the place.

Among the popular tourist attractions here is the Purdy Butterfly House which is open during special months. This place is open for tourists from June to September and you can visit this place during this period.

After visiting this place, hundreds of butterflies can be seen fluttering in the open air which adds to the joy of experiencing the beauty of nature.

6. Joe Wheeler State Park

• Best things to do: Fish or boat on the lake.
• Best time to visit: September or October
• Average Budget: $5 to $10 per person.

Joe Wheeler State Park is one of the most beautiful and peaceful tourist destinations in the state of Alabama. After visiting this park, you can enjoy seeing marble objects, trees, natural beauty, water sports, and gardens. The garden has a spacious ground for playing games like volleyball badminton cricket.

The enjoyment of playing outdoor sports in nature beauty experience is something different and you can enjoy it after visiting this place. You can come to this place with your loved one and enjoy the beauty of nature as well as outdoor sports.

This park is also available for kids so there are special toys for kids to play with. If you want to do camping then that facility is also provided in this place so you can visit this tourist place with family. Tourists who come with family need a camp for relaxation. A camping facility is available to you at this place so you don’t need to worry.

7. Wheeler Wildlife Refuge

• Best things to do: See the migratory birds and go fishing or hunting.
• Best time to visit: November or December.
• Average Budget: $5 to $10.

Wildlife enthusiasts will want to make sure to visit Wheeler Wildlife Refuge, which is among the top things to do in North Alabama this weekend.

A wildlife sanctuary is the best place to visit for wildlife lovers and if you want to see wildlife, you can also visit Wheeler Wildlife Refuge. This wildlife sanctuary is home to various species of birds and animals so you can enjoy seeing this diversity of animals.

You can also experience the beauty of nature by watching the wild animals after visiting this sanctuary, and there are various attractive centers that you can visit during this visit. Various species of birds can be seen in this sanctuary, so bird lovers visit this sanctuary without fail.

We can closely observe the actions of the parties like their voices and their behavior. Some animals and birds can be seen only in the forest, so you can enjoy seeing new birds here.

This tourist destination is known as the best tourist destination for wildlife lovers as well as nature lovers. If you like to visit similar tourist places then this tourist place is for you.

8. Admire Ave Maria Caves

• Best things to do: Take a guided cave tour.
• Best time to visit: July or August.
• Average Budget: $15 to $25.
• Minimum Time spend: 1-2 hours.

It’s a religious site about an hour to an hour and a half from Huntsville. There is a small statue of the Mother of God at this place. A visit to this tourist spot on the occasion of a religious festival would be appropriate. Religious festivals are celebrated in this place with great joy.

Located in the beautiful scenic surroundings of Alabama, this religious tourist destination attracts millions of tourists. Couples visit this place as they can experience the peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty of this place. After arriving at this place there is a sprawling four-acre park where you can enjoy a stroll.

You can enjoy chatting with your loved one in this park and the importance of this religious tourist place which you can know after visiting the place itself. After visiting this tourist spot visit the surrounding tourist spots. Planning a day trip to this place would be appropriate. It is one of the best places for religious and spiritual experiences.

9. DeSoto State Park

• Best things to do: Hike the trails, swim, or fish in the river.

DeSota State Park, located near Fort Town in North Ala Baba, is famous for nature lovers. The park is spread over an area of ​​more than three a five hundred acres situated on Lookout Mountain in a scenic setting.

Various activities like hacking, camping, fishing, and rock climbing can be done here so you can experience the beauty of nature to the fullest.

The park has more than 25 women’s hacking trains; some are easy and some are difficult. Two-day hacking and backpacking trips are available here. There are more than 20 campsites in the park. Can rent from school as per requirement.

In this park, you can find various attractions which you can visit to explore the place and enjoy your trip. A famous tourist spot in this Udana is Desota Falls.

This waterfall is 104 feet high and is known as a fantastic waterfall. Desota Falls is a must-visit for tourists visiting this park. Some wildlife species can be seen in the park including ki bears deer and other wildlife. You can also see species of birds in this place so you can enjoy bird watching.

Souvenirs along with snacks camping are provided for visitors to this place. The park hosts annual events like the Desota Fall Festival and the Mountain High BBQ Festival. Car shows and other attractive festivals are celebrated in the park to witness lakhs of tourists decide to visit this tourist spot.

10. Alabama Constitution Village

• Best things to do: Explore the living history museum, and watch the blacksmiths.
• Best time to visit: March or April.

Alabama Constitution Village is a historical museum in the US state of Alabama. The museum is located in Huntsville. The historical site was created in 2019 to mark the Alabama Bicentennial.

The village is designed to look like a typical nineteenth-century town. After arriving at these villages there are period buildings and costumed interpreters that you can see.

For tourists who want to visit this village, there is an opportunity to visit this village. This is the best place to experience the early history of Alabama. You can find various attractions in these villages which include the constitution of 819. It was in this hall that Alabama’s first constitution was drafted and ratified.

Various educational tours come to these villages to get a glimpse of the earlier history of the state. These villages also have other attractions like offices, print shops, and blacksmith shops. This village is like a museum.

The village has been included in the list of National Historic Sites. This place is best for tourists who want to know the history of Alabama. After seeing this place you get an idea of ​​how the kingdom was in its early days.

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5 Best Hotels in North Alabama

Best time to visit north alabama.

The best time to visit this tourist destination in North Alabama is from March to the end of May . You can experience the beauty of nature by visiting various tourist attractions in the state during this period. During this month it rains intermittently so the temperature here ranges from 60F to 85F.

This period is known as the busiest tourist period so various tourists consider it advisable to visit the tourist destination during this period. If you’re looking for fun activities, there are plenty of things to do in North Alabama this weekend .

Best Hotels in North Alabama in 2023 for Stay and Eat.

Map of things to do in north alabama this weekend..

How to Reach North Alabama

You can use various transport options to visit the tourist attractions in North Alabama which include the following transport services.

By car 

You can visit tourist attractions in north Alabama by using several major highways like I-65, I-59, and I-20. If you are from a nearby state, there are other routes that you can use to enjoy the scenic tourist spots.

Huntsville International Airport is the main airport serving North Alabama. You can come to this place using your city airport and enjoy visiting various scenic historical and cultural tourist spots from this place. You can find various tourist spots within a short distance from this airport so this airport will be beneficial for you.

North Alabama has various railway stations using which you can visit tourist places in Alabama and experience the natural beauty of this place.

In North Alabama Anniston, Birmingham, and Tuscaloosa  There is a railway station at this place. Various scenic spots near this railway station And there are romantic tourist spots Whom you can meet to start your trip.

Take a Look at The Best Places to Visit in Alabama This Weekend by Watching the Video.

People Also Ask These Questions About North Alabama

What is alabama’s number 1 tourist attraction.

The US Space and Rocket Center in North Alabama is a popular tourist destination number one. Here you can see and study the rockets used in space making this tourist destination the first choice of tourists.

What Is Northern Alabama Known For?

Most tourists are attracted to view places in northern Alabama. Alabama’s most popular tourist destinations are on the north side.

What Are Fun Places in Alabama?

US Space and Rocket Center Monte Sano State Park Noccalula Falls Park Cathedral Caverns State Park

Why Is Huntsville Alabama Famous?

Huntsville Alabama is famous for two main reasons regular business and good quality of life and it has various interesting tourist attractions. The city is an important city in terms of tourism due to its good food and accommodation facilities.

What to Do in Alabama for A Weekend?

Various tourist attractions in Alabama are important in terms of entertainment that you can visit. You can also relive old memories by visiting various scenic tourist spots and historical tourist spots.

Things to Do in North Alabama This Weekend

There are so many things to do in North Alabama in 2023. Here are some best things to do in Alabama for couples and Families. Visit the most popular tourist attraction in North album this weekend list of 4 tourist places in North Alabama US Space and Rocket Center 1. Monte Sano State Park 2. Cathedral Caverns State Park 3. Huntsville Botanical Garden 4. Noccalula Falls Park

My name is Bharat Andhale, and I am a blogger and website developer. My hobby is travel, so I like to travel to new places. I share my personal experience on the Travel With Crush website through writing posts. I mostly travel in the USA, and my favorite place in the USA is Zion National Park.

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I’ve Lived In The South All My Life—And These Are The 10 Most Underrated Destinations

Brown W. Cannon III

There are some Southern places that everyone knows: Charleston , New Orleans , Savannah . We know them. We love them. We’ve either been before or have added them to our travel bucket lists. But outside of those heavy hitters, the South is home to thousands of destinations that get far less attention but are worthy of our time all the same. From lesser-known national parks to small towns with surprisingly impressive attractions, these hidden gem destinations run the gamut, offering something to pique the interest of all kinds of travelers. If you’re a seasoned Southern traveler looking for somewhere new to explore, these underrated destinations are a great place to find inspiration for your next trip. Check out these 10 spots and let us know your favorite undiscovered places in the South .

Mammoth Cave National Park

Between Yellowstone and Yosemite (and dozens of other parks in between), the West is known for being home to the country’s most mind-blowing national parks. And while the South gets credit for having the most-visited park in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, many people overlook our region’s other parks. Located in south-central Kentucky, Mammoth Cave National Park’s limestone formations and underground passageways make up a 400-mile-long system that showcase Earth's evolutionary stages and is the longest known cave system on the planet. Explore its mysterious tunnels on one of the park’s many guided cave tours that range from a wheelchair accessible tour to one that requires crawling. You can even see the cave by lantern.

Crystal River, Florida

For anyone who’s ever dreamt of swimming with dolphins only to be disappointed by a commercialized experience at a theme park or zoo, Crystal River is a must visit. The small town on the western coast of Florida (located 80 miles north of Tampa) is one of the only places in the U.S. where you can swim with manatees in the wild. Every winter, around 800 manatees seek refuge in the warm waters of Crystal River’s Kings Bay and its 70 natural springs. From November to March, visitors and locals suit up and take the chilly plunge to spend face-to-face time with these gentle giants. Dozens of outfitters are on standby to help you have this once-in-a-lifetime, talk-about-forever experience.

Coastal Mississippi

If Florida’s coast is the height of desire for beach vacations (with coastal destinations in the Carolinas, Alabama, and Georgia following somewhere behind), then Mississippi’s coast might be even more of a distant thought. But for those in on the secret, places like Ocean Springs, Gulfport, and Bay St. Louis are hardly second fiddles. With 62 miles of scenic coastline, there’s plenty of room to spread out in the sand. But that’s far from all Coastal Mississippi has to offer. Each of its town offers its own distinctive personality, from artsy, eclectic Ocean Springs to buzzy Gulfport .

Hot Springs National Park

Robbie Caponetto

Another under-the-radar national park, Hot Springs National Park in Hot Springs, Arkansas is one of those places you have to see (and feel) to believe. Nestled in the gorgeous Ouachita Mountains, the park is comprised of 47 natural springs, where steam rises from the earth as if by magic. Explore the park (and its historic bath houses), then stick around to see what else the town has to offer, from the 210-acre botanical paradise Garvan Woodland Gardens to three major lakes where you can enjoy watersports.

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park

This tiny town, national park, and historic site on the West Virginia-Maryland state line is a three-in-one combo that delivers on all fronts. You can get gorgeous views of the Blue Ridge Mountains on a scenic hike to the precipice of the Maryland Heights Overlook Trail. You can walk through the historic streets of Lower Town to see 19 th century architecture by way of Victorian homes and 150-year-old row buildings. Some are filled with new boutiques and restaurants, while others are living history museums that demonstrate what life was like in the 1800s. And you can do it all with a charming bed and breakfast as a cozy home base.

Fort Payne, Alabama

This small North Alabama town may not seem like much, but when you consider its incredibly high concentration of stunning natural attractions all located within one easy-to-navigate area, it’s a bit of a wonder more people haven’t caught on to its charms. DeSoto State Park , Little River Canyon National Preserve , and Little River Falls are just a few of its many outdoor-focused points of interest. In fact, Little River Canyon is known as the Grand Canyon of the East. We admit it’s not quite as magnificent as the one out west, but it sure is a lot easier to get to—and you won’t have to battle crowds to get the perfect picture.   

Virginia Wine Country

When people think of American wine country, a few places immediately come to mind: Napa Valley, Sonoma County, maybe even Willamette Valley in Oregon. The South probably isn’t a first thought, but Virginia’s wine country absolutely should be. Virginia is recognized as the birthplace of American wine, since colonists attempted the craft in the early 17 th century. Today the state is home to more than 300 wineries spread largely across northern and central Virginia. The rolling hills and lush vineyards create a stunning backdrop for a tasting, and the wines more than hold their own. In 2023, Wine Enthusiast even named the Charlottesville area the Wine Region of the Year.

Black Mountain, North Carolina

Charming Blue Ridge Mountain towns are a dime a dozen in North Carolina. From Brevard to Boone to Blowing Rock, each community brings its own flair. And of course they all have gorgeous views and great opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Probably the area's most popular destination, Asheville gets thousands of visitors each year, but if you want to escape the crowds, head 20 minutes east to Black Mountain. This quaint town has all the makings of a great vacation destination—excellent local shopping, a diverse and delicious dining scene, a quaint downtown, affordable lodging, and easy access to hiking trails where you can bask in the glory of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Knoxville, Tennessee

Between big, flashy Broadway and a steady stream of country music star sightings, it’s no surprise that Nashville tends to steal the spotlight in Tennessee. But if you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle (and ever-increasing prices) of Nashville, consider heading east to check out Knoxville. With a population of just around 200,000, this college town strikes the perfect balance of having plenty to do while remaining manageable enough to tackle in a long weekend. Spend an afternoon strolling around downtown’s Market Square and enjoying the ample greenspace at World’s Fair Park. You’ll be singing the praises of Good Ole Rocky Top in no time.

Terlingua, Texas

When you’re in a state with major cultural hubs like Austin, Houston, and Dallas (and the state itself encompasses nearly 270 million square miles), it can be difficult to get noticed—especially when your entire population hovers right around 100 people. Despite its diminutive size, there are some big (quite literally) reasons to visit Terlingua. The biggest: Big Bend National Park . You can access the otherworldly national park just minutes from town. Take in the unexpected beauty of the Chisos Mountain springing from the Chihuahuan Desert, and don’t worry a drop about crowds. The park is the 8 th largest in the U.S. but sees fewer than half a million visitors per year, meaning you’ll have ample room to roam.

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5 Places to Retire That Are Just Like North Carolina but Way Cheaper

North Carolina has long captivated retirees with its mix of beautiful coastlines, quaint mountain towns, and a moderate climate.

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However, with rising costs in popular areas, retirees might be on the hunt for alternatives that encapsulate the charm of North Carolina without denting their retirement savings. Here are five places to consider:

1. Tennessee: Scenic Mountains & Lush Valleys

Sharing the Appalachian range with North Carolina, Tennessee offers stunning mountain views reminiscent of the Tar Heel State. Cities like Chattanooga and Knoxville are surrounded by natural beauty, offer a lower cost of living, and provide a rich cultural scene. Plus, Tennessee’s absence of state income tax is an added financial benefit.

2. Virginia: Historical Charm & Coastal Beauty

Often compared to North Carolina for its natural allure, Virginia offers retirees a blend of historical cities, coastal towns, and mountain retreats. The Shenandoah Valley, in particular, mirrors the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. Cities like Roanoke and Lynchburg offer affordability coupled with Southern charm.

3. Georgia: Southern Hospitality & Coastal Retreats

Georgia’s coastal towns, like Savannah and St. Simons Island, are reminiscent of North Carolina’s seaside spots. Beyond the coast, the northern region of Georgia presents the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains. Overall, the Peach State provides a more affordable living cost while maintaining the warmth and charm familiar to North Carolinians.

4. Arkansas: The Hidden Gem of the South

Often overlooked, Arkansas boasts an array of beautiful landscapes, from the Ozark Mountains to serene lakes. Hot Springs, with its historical bathhouses and natural beauty, provides retirees a unique and affordable retirement spot. The state’s cost of living is one of the lowest in the U.S., making it a financially savvy option.

5. Alabama: Gulf Coastlines & Rolling Hills

Alabama is not just about southern charm; it’s also about affordability. The state offers a mix of Gulf coastlines, reminiscent of North Carolina’s beaches, and rolling hills in the northern regions. Towns like Fairhope provide coastal living without the high price tag, while areas like the Shoals offer a blend of music, art, and nature.

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Finding a retirement haven that captures the essence of North Carolina doesn’t mean you have to compromise on cost. These five states offer a blend of nature, culture, and affordability that could make your golden years both memorable and financially comfortable.

Editor's note: This article was produced via automated technology and then fine-tuned and verified for accuracy by a member of GOBankingRates' editorial team.

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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com : 5 Places to Retire That Are Just Like North Carolina but Way Cheaper

Watch CBS News

See the full list of past total solar eclipses in the U.S. since 1778

By Kerry Breen

Updated on: April 9, 2024 / 4:36 AM EDT / CBS News

A  rare total solar eclipse was visible in parts of the United States Monday. Those in the path of totality  had the opportunity to see the sun be fully covered by the moon for several minutes.

Total solar eclipses are rare , and aren't often visible from the U.S. The last time one occurred here  was in 2017 , and the U.S. won't see another until 2044 .

Here's a list of all the times a total solar eclipse has been recorded in the United States. 

Total solar eclipse in the U.S. during the 18th century

The first recorded total solar eclipse was in 1778, according to NASA , just a few short years after the United States became an independent country. The eclipse was visible from the Carolinas to New England, and was noted by historical figures like Thomas Jefferson, according to Mount Vernon , the museum established in former President George Washington's estate. Troops in Washington's army also noted the event. 

List of total solar eclipses in the U.S. during the 19th century

1806: The first total solar eclipse of the 1800s occurred in 1806, according to the National Parks Service . The path of that eclipse would have crossed from Arizona, through the Midwest and into New England, according to NASA . 

1869: The next total solar eclipse was recorded in 1869. The path of totality stretched from Alaska to the Carolinas, according to NASA . Photos of the event were published in Harper's Magazine, the service said, the first mass publication to do so. 

1878: The next total solar eclipse occurred in 1878, and the path of totality arced from Alaska through Louisiana, according to NASA . It was studied by an all-woman team of astronomers, according to the parks service, and Thomas Edison himself traveled to see the event, bringing scientific equipment to study the sun's corona during the eclipse. 

List of total solar eclipses in the U.S. during the 20th century

1900: The first eclipse of the 20th century was in 1900, according to the parks service. The path of totality of that eclipse brought it over Wadesboro, North Carolina.

1918: In June 1918, a total solar eclipse was visible from Washington to Florida, according to the parks service. It was the last time a total solar eclipse would be visible across the entire continent for nearly 100 years. 

1925: This was followed by another total solar eclipse in January 1925, which was visible from Minnesota through New England, according to NASA . 

1932: In August 1932, another total solar eclipse was visible in North America. The path of totality for this eclipse was mostly in Canada, according to NASA , but was visible in northern New England including parts of Vermont, Maine, New Hampshire and Massachusetts. 

1963: The next total solar eclipse in the U.S. wasn't until July 1963. This eclipse was visible in Alaska and parts of northern New England, according to NASA . 

1970: In March 1970, another total solar eclipse was visible from the coast of the Southwest United States. Watch CBS News coverage of that event in the video below:

1979: The last eclipse that NASA recorded in the 20th century took place in 1979. This eclipse was visible in the Pacific Northwest and parts of Idaho and the Dakotas, but the path of totality mostly arced through Canada. 

Total solar eclipses in the U.S. during the 21st century so far

Only two total solar eclipses have been visible from the United States during the 21st century. The first was the total solar eclipse of 2017 , which was visible across the country . This was the first time such an event had occurred since 1918, and millions gathered to watch . 

The April 8, 2024, eclipse was the next total solar eclipse visible in the U.S. The path of totality for this eclipse stretched from Texas to the Northeast. The eclipse started  on Mexico's Pacific coast at just after 11 a.m. PDT before traveling across the U.S. and into Canada. The eclipse left North America around 5:19 p.m. EDT. 

The eclipse attracted millions of spectators. Some areas where the event was most visible declared local states of emergency to account for the number of expected visitors. 

When will the next total solar eclipse be visible in the U.S.?

After the April 8 eclipse, the U.S. won't see another total solar eclipse for decades. The next total solar eclipse visible from the United States will occur in August 2044. 

Total solar eclipses typically happen every one to three years somewhere around the globe, but the events are often only visible from Earth's poles or from the middle of the ocean. 

Kerry Breen is a reporter and news editor at CBSNews.com. A graduate of New York University's Arthur L. Carter School of Journalism, she previously worked at NBC News' TODAY Digital. She covers current events, breaking news and issues including substance use.

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7 Natural Places You Need to Know in North Alabama

Did you know North Alabama is home to the first designated wilderness east of the Mississippi? It also has the longest commercially supported stretch of paddling in Alabama, 30,000 migrating sandhill cranes, and the miracle mile of bass fishing. There is also the 'Grand Canyon of the East', glow worms that are close cousins to what you'd find in Australia and New Zealand, and a state park with cabins less than ten miles away from the birthplace of the US Space Program. Join us as we show you seven natural places you need to know in North Alabama.

Little River Canyon

Our natural tour of North Alabama begins in Little River Canyon, known by many as the 'Grand Canyon of the East'. The Little River flows along the middle of Lookout Mountain to its confluence with the Coosa River at Weiss Lake. This is the same Lookout Mountain where you'll find famous tourist attractions like Ruby Falls and Rock City near Chattanooga . Luckily for Alabama, the river carved nearly 65 miles of canyons into the Cumberland Plateau when you include the major side canyons.

There's something to do in every season in the Little River Canyon National Preserve and De Soto State Park. From early winter into May, the canyon is home to the finest white water in Alabama . For the less adventurous or more sane, this is also when you'd want to take a waterfall road trip to see the state's largest waterfall (DeSoto Falls) and the impressive Little River Falls. During the summer, you can rent a kayak and paddle the flat water above DeSoto Falls or go for a swim at the ever-popular Hippy Hole. Autumn brings fall colors at their finest , especially on the Little River Canyon Rim Parkway, which might just be the best scenic drive in Alabama.

Lake Guntersville

Lake Guntersville is Alabama's largest lake and home to many championship bass fishing tournaments. Some people theorize that the weigh-in and subsequent release of trophy bass from these tournaments create the famed "Miracle Mile" of bass fishing near the Goose Pond Colony. One thing is for sure; Lake Guntersville has a lot of fish. Perhaps that's why it's home to so many bald eagles.

What we love about Lake Guntersville isn't its massive size but rather kayaking in the quiet secret spots you can find along the lake. Some of our favorite paddles around Scottsboro include launching from the incredibly well-priced cabins at Jackson County Park, exploring the caves in Coon Bay, observing bat flights from Hambrick Cave, and floating in the backwater arms around Lake Guntersville State Park.

Flint River

Some people cruise the 15 river miles between Lake Guntersville Lock and Dam (MM 349) and Ditto Landing (MM 334) on a pontoon boat. However, since we're paddling fans, our favorite water in the area is the Flint River which enters five miles above Ditto Landing. We love taking the 5-mile paddle around Hobbs Island, but we love the 50 miles of navigable water on the Flint River even more. With three separate outfitters supporting the Flint River from the Bloucher Ford Preserve to Hwy 231, this is the state's longest commercially supported stretch of paddling .

Brown Bear Canoe and Kayak operates from Bloucher Ford Preserve to Ryland Pike. North Alabama Canoe and Kayak (NACK) services the river from Ryland Pike to Little Cove Road. Last but not least, Flint River Expeditions runs from Little Cove Road to Hwy 231. It's hard to pick our favorite because they all run excellent operations. We love the challenge of running the upper Flint after a hard rain, the beauty of the bluffs at Sublett Point, and floating through the Hayes Nature Preserve.

Monte Sano (1621') is 800 feet shorter than Mount Cheaha (2413'). Monte Sano State Park's area (2,140 acres) is only a fraction of Oak Mountain's (9,940 acres). However, all of it is used masterfully with 14 cabins, 89 camping spots, and 20 miles of hiking trails. When you include the adjacent 1,107 acres of the Monte Sano Nature Preserve with its own 22 miles of trails and the proximity to Huntsville, you get one of the premier natural areas of North Alabama.

Exactly how close is Monte Sano to downtown Huntsville ? Close enough that riding from Big Springs Park to Monte Sano is one of the most popular bike routes in Huntsville . It's also the longest sustained climb in the state, but all at a very manageable grade. Not only are the combined 40 miles of trails excellent for hiking , but they're also almost all suitable for mountain biking too. Plus, it's eight degrees cooler on the shady mountain top but still close enough to venture down into the valley to visit the US Space and Rocket Center , which is only ten miles away. While you’re out, you can also grab a dish at one of the delicious local Huntsville restaurants .

Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge

Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge is a sprawling 35,000-acre preserve near Decatur. For math fans, it's over 3X the size of the largest state park that Birmingham claims and is located in the heart of North Alabama. With so much area and diversity, it has a little of everything, including gravel rides , kayaking with alligators , caves , and paddling trails . However, the park might be most famous for bird watching.

A total of 300 species of birds visit Wheeler, but none are more celebrated than the cranes that come calling in December and January. Tens of thousands of Sandhill Cranes and a handful of Whooping Cranes stop by the park for their winter migrations. While this isn't the hundreds of thousands of cranes that descend on the 80-mile Platte River, their density and the excellent viewing area makes this one of the premier wildlife watching experiences in America. The sights and sounds of cranes are everywhere, so much so that there's even a weekend-long Festival of the Cranes that celebrates their visit.

Bankhead National Forest

If you thought the 35,000-acre Wheeler NWR was large, the Bankhead National Forest covers 181,230 acres in Northern Alabama. It is home to Alabama's only National Wild and Scenic River, the Sipsey Fork, and the first designated wilderness east of the Mississippi, the Sipsey Wilderness. Within its boundaries, you'll find rock shelters, petroglyphs, and over 90 miles of hiking trails, but the waterfalls steal the show.

It's known as the 'land of a thousand waterfalls,' and that number might be low during the spring runoff. Whether you're paddling the Sipsey, hiking to a remote cascade, or simply taking a driving tour , you're sure to find your falls in the Bankhead National Forest. Also, don’t forget to check out one or more of the natural bridges in and around the park.

Dismals Canyon

Dismals Canyon National Landmark isn't extraordinary because of its size. There's only a 1.5-mile trail through the canyon on 85 acres. It takes less than 10,000 steps to traverse the entire canyon and return to the soda fountain at the park. However, those might be the most diverse 10,000 steps you'll take in the Southeast.

The sandstone canyon winds through waterfalls and primeval forests with rare and unusual flora and fauna everywhere and every season—however, the undisputed superstars of the canyon fly larvae called Dismalites. What makes the Dismalites special is that they are photoluminescent larva like you'd find in the caves of Australia or New Zealand. The Dismals Canyon website says- "When looking up at the moss-covered canyon walls, it's hard to tell where the Dismalites stop and the stars begin. When enough are present, they appear to form constellations."

Wrapping up Natural Places in North Alabama

If you're lucky enough to call North Alabama home, you know that these seven places are just the beginning of the natural beauty in North Alabama. You might have to plan multiple trips to see them all if you're only visiting, and by the time you're done, you'll have discovered even more places to explore. There's almost no limit to the natural beauty and outdoor adventure in North Alabama, and no time better than now to start experiencing it for yourself.

Coleman Concierge

Jenn and Ed Coleman make up Coleman Concierge. In a nutshell, they are a Huntsville-based Gen X couple sharing their stories of amazing adventures through activity-driven transformational and experiential travel.

They advocate for sustainable and ethical tourism and truly believe in the power of travel to transform both themselves as well as the world around them. Their tagline is amazing adventures for ordinary people because they contend that you don’t have to be super-rich, super-fit, or super-anything to have an amazing adventure. Expanding your comfort zone and trying new things will pay huge dividends in both health and happiness.

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When is the next total solar eclipse in the US after 2024 and what is its path? What to know

The highly anticipated 2024 total solar eclipse will cross North America on Monday , giving millions of sky-gazers the chance to see a rare cosmic event that won't be viewable again for 20 years.

The eclipse's  path of totality  will travel over a portion of northern Mexico before entering the U.S. It then it will cross 13 states  from Texas to Maine, where the spectacle is expected to attract huge crowds.

If you aren't lucky enough to be in the path of totality this time around, you will have another chance - you'll just have to wait until the 2040s.

Here's what we know about the next total solar eclipse to cross over the U.S.

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When is the next total solar eclipse visible from the U.S.?

It will be 20 years before there's a chance to  witness a total solar eclipse  in the United States again.

According to NASA, after Monday's total solar  eclipse , the next one viewable from the contiguous U.S. will be on Aug. 23, 2044.

2044 total solar eclipse path of totality

Unfortunately, the 2044 total  solar eclipse  won't have the broad reach across the U.S. as the 2024 eclipse.

The path of totality during the 2044 eclipse will only touch three states, according to the Planetary Society, a nonprofit involved in research, public outreach, and political space advocacy.

The eclipse will begin in Greenland, sweep through Canada and end around sunset in Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota.

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2045 solar eclipse

While the 2044 total eclipse will only touch three states, a 2045 eclipse will have a more robust path across the U.S.

Expected to occur on Saturday, Aug. 12, 2045, this solar eclipse will trace a path of totality over California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Florida, and Georgia.

A partial solar eclipse will also be viewable in 35 other states, according to National Eclipse.com

What is a total solar eclipse?

Any celestial object like a moon or a planet that passes between two other bodies can create  an eclipse  by obscuring the view of objects like the sun.

In the event of a solar eclipse, the moon comes in between the Earth and the sun, blocking its light from reaching a small part of our planet. Partial eclipses, when some part of the sun remains visible, are the most common, making total eclipses a rare sight to behold.

Total eclipses can lead to a period of darkness lasting for several minutes, during which time nocturnal animals stir while confused birds and insects may fall silent, NASA says.

When a solar eclipse reaches totality, people are able to see the sun’s outer atmosphere called the corona, which is usually obscured by the sun's bright surface. This offers scientists an uncommon opportunity  to study the corona .

Totality also offers spectators a chance to gaze upon the spectacular sight with the naked eye, though  proper  safety  glasses  are still required for the rest of the time.

What states are on the 2024 eclipse path of totality?

Mexico's Pacific coast will be the first location in continental North America to experience totality, which is expected to occur at about 11:07 a.m. PDT,  according to NASA .

As the moon's shadow will northeast, totality in the U.S. will begin in Texas at 1:27 p.m. CDT. The path will then cut diagonally across the country, traveling through Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont and New Hampshire.

The eclipse's path is expected to end in Maine at 3:35 p.m. EDT before visiting the maritime provinces of Canada, according to estimates.

See  interactive maps of the 2024 path .

Contributing: Doyle Rice, Ramon Padilla & Janet Loehrke, USA TODAY