10 Serene Alabama Towns For A Weekend Retreat
Are you tired of the frenzied honking that jolts you as you stroll down busy streets, the noisy whirl of cars that create an orderly confusion along a frenetic Main Street, or the sound of music blaring from downtown shops and stores? An escape into a serene, soothing locale will work like a charm to renew your spirit, especially by clearing the things that clutter your mind and make it foggy. Fortunately, Alabama is filled with many small, charming communities where you can kick back and relax. Starting with Mentone, discover 10 serene Alabama towns for a weekend retreat.
Mentone
Mentone is peacefully set atop Lookout Mountain and is known for its showy, ostentatious character, especially in fall. But no problem if you cannot make it when the leaves burst out in scintillating yellows and oranges. Although fall is the best time to make the trip, Mentone has several year-round attractions to check out. If you want to start by sampling the culinary scene, the Hatter Cafe is a cherished name inspired by what many believe to be the cornerstone of children's literature: Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland. If it hasn’t, this eatery will make you view collard greens in a whole different light. There are some hilarious gifts at the Groovy Goat to pick as a memento, so make sure you pass by one of the most unique gift shops in Alabama. It is at the Log Cabin Village, one of the best places to shop in town. Catch a golden sunset at Brow Park, before spending a cozy night at the Mentone Inn, a historic property with a history that predates the Great Depression.
Fairhope
If you have read “Forrest Gump,” a funny-but-touching novel by Winston Groom that was adapted into an Oscar-winning film, you know how the water scenes in the novel appear so surreal, pretty, and captivating. While the scenes may not have been set in Fairhope, there is no doubt that the beauty of Fairhope lingered in Groom’s mind even as he was penning the creative masterpiece. With its flower-lined sidewalks, Fairhope looks every bit soft and serene. Warehouse Bakery & Donuts serves some of the best grits in the world and is a nice breakfast spot. Remember, Fairhope is enticingly walkable, and you will enjoy ambling through its cobblestoned streets on foot. The area around the pier is particularly pretty and must never be missed. The story of Fairhope is a story of dreamers and idealists. If you want to enjoy interesting bits of the town’s history, especially its utopian roots, spend some time at the Fairhope Museum of History, a two-story 1928 Spanish Mission-style building that once served as City Hall. Spend the night at Oak Haven Cottages, a rustic spot with screened porches to sit on at night.
Magnolia Springs
Magnolia Springs is a stunning river town known for one of the most unusual features of any town in the state: its unique mail delivery system. The Magnolia River, the scenic waterway on which the town sits, remains the only river route for mail delivery in the nation. If you ask locals about the best place to eat, many will point you to Jesses Restaurant without hesitation. Known for their kickass ribeye, Jesses serves some of the most inventive locally sourced food in the state. If you want to sip in some calm and clarity, the Graham Creek Nature Preserve spans almost 500 acres and boasts plenty of trails and boardwalks to wander through. You will also enjoy floating down the river, before laying your head at the iconic Magnolia Springs Bed and Breakfast, a tranquil space with a 5-star rating on Google Reviews.
Guntersville
Even if you are not obsessed with water, you will agree that Earth’s most abundant molecule has a calming effect that often feels quite refreshing and therapeutic. Guntersville, a small Alabama stunner surrounded by the shimmering waters of Lake Guntersville, has a soft, soothing appeal that you will hardly get enough of. Besides the state’s largest lake (Lake Guntersville spans almost 70,000 acres), there is the Tennessee River, the site of several water sports. You can boat, fish, or explore the peaceful trails along it. Lake Guntersville State Park, which many consider to be the town’s star attraction, is big, beautiful, and breathtaking. And if you want a rustic and peaceful lodging with a view, this park will leave you blown away. Alternatively, Lake Guntersville Bed & Breakfast, conveniently positioned near the harbor, has clean, well-appointed rooms to enjoy.
Fort Payne
Tucked away in the serene environs of the Appalachians, in a backdrop that features sparkling waterfalls, heart-stirring canyon views, and lush greenery, Fort Payne is the perfect place to kick back and get in tune with nature's restful rhythm. If there is something to single out about Fort Payne, it has to be its nice, down-home feel. Of course, Fort Payne provides access to several big names in the outdoor world, including Little River Canyon State Park, DeSoto State Park, and the Alabama Fan Club Museum. Little River Canyon State Park, just about 7 miles out of town, features a scenic section to drive, especially along the picturesque canyon rim. DeSoto State Park, which spans more than 3,500 acres, offers beautiful trails to hike, spectacular waterfalls, and a peaceful atmosphere fit for dreaming and contemplation. On the other hand, the Alabama Fan Club and Museum is dedicated to the Music group “Alabama,” an award-winning country music band that primarily wrote and played songs about the "Cotton State" and southern culture. It is famous for its songs, tunes that made it the biggest-selling band in the history of country music. If you want to stay in a log cabin that will transport you to the 1800s, spend the night at Bear Creek Log Cabins, a beautiful and peaceful property with personable hosts and delicious views.
Mooresville
Although quaint and small as they come, Mooresville effortlessly punches above its weight in personality and character. Talking of size, no more than 100 people call Mooresville home. Still, this sweet, adorable locale has a beating heart and a uniqueness that you may not easily pin on a single aspect. The entire town, about 6 streets of it, is included on the National Register of Historic Places. The nostalgic feel is palpable and sips to the deepest chambers of the soul. Mooresville is known as the “Williamsburg of Alabama” and has the oldest post office in continuous use in the state. The Stagecoach Inn, peacefully positioned on High Street, has a history that predates the Civil War by about 30 years. If you want to start with some delicious pastries, do yourself a favour and pass by Dogwood & Magnolia Bakery. It is a small, locally owned establishment with sweet, friendly owners and premium-grade cookies and cinnamon rolls. You can then float down Piney Creek, before spending the night in next-door Decatur, at the Home2 Suites by Hilton Decatur Ingalls Harbour
Eufaula
With its tree-lined streets and serene lake, the environment around Eufaula is always quite peaceful and relaxing. The “Bass Capital of the World,” as Lake Eufaula is known, gives the whole area a noticeable tint of rustic charm and allure. The breeze is soft and gentle, the air fresh and light. Beautiful Victorian mansions front the streets, presenting a scene fit for the setting of a Hollywood movie. The Seth Lore and Irwinton Historic District, one of the largest historic districts in Alabama, features over 700 historic structures of varying architectural styles. Special mentions here include the Eufaula Carnegie Library, one of only two Carnegie libraries in the nation still operating. There is a chance to mingle with American alligators at the Eufaula National Wildlife Refuge, explore Lakepoint State Park, or shop for unique gifts and goodies at the many cute stores that dot the downtown area. Spending the night? Book a room at the Lakepoint Resort Lodge and have Lake Eufaula all to yourself.
Tuscumbia
Of all the stories in the world about overcoming insurmountable odds, few are as touching as that of Helen Keller, a sweet, enterprising girl who, without the ability to hear or see, went on to create a remarkably successful life for herself, in the process inspiring millions of people across the globe. The story of Helen Keller starts in Tuscambia, where she was born and bred. With its Ivy-covered brick buildings, Tuscambia is beautiful, yet in a timid, bashful way. One of the town's defining attractions is Ivy Green, the birthplace and childhood home of Helen Keller. Another is Tuscumbia Spring Park, a lovely space with a beautiful man-made waterfall, petrified trees, and a pond with a fountain. It does not get the attention it deserves, but the Palace Ice Cream & Sandwich is the best place for milkshakes and coffee for miles. If you have a thing for primitive camping and the tranquility that comes with it, spend the night at the Hawk Pride Mountain Offroad.
Montevallo
Montevallo is a small and neatly laid-out college town with a quiet, laid-back feel. It hosts the University of Montevallo, a quiet, beautiful campus with eye-catching red-brick buildings and lovely greenery. You can attribute it to the university, but Montevallo has artistic touches almost everywhere. Speaking of art, Blue Phrog Gallery is one of the best places to sample the town's artistic elements. You will find mind-rousing artwork from a variety of local artists. If you are craving a perfectly cooked burger, grab a seat at Main Street Tavern, a warm, homey place with fantastic ambience. Orr Park, a green space gem with beautiful tree carvings, offers a peaceful atmosphere for resting, walking, or people-watching. Fox and Pheasant Inn, with its exquisite antiques, is a clean, comfortable place to spend the night.
Wedowee
Wedowee is a nice, compact town with a big lake, a few restaurants, and a peaceful, countryside atmosphere. You will love exploring Lake Wedowee’s tree-lined shores, catching glowing sunsets that reflect iridescent colors on the water, and just enjoying the calm and quiet that prevails at every corner and nook. For those looking for an unplugged retreat, Wedowee provides the best experience. If you want to start with some crispy wings covered in your favorite coating, pop inside Nelson's Wings & Grill, one of the few eateries in town. But if you have an affinity for Mexican food, the salsa at Hacienda San Antonio will hit your taste buds with a pow. Spend the night at Up the Creek RV Park, a peaceful, family-oriented property tastefully positioned right on the water.
The Takeaway
Are you sick of the chaos and commotion that city life always rewards you with? Don’t act as if you don’t have the option to occasionally slip into an environment that is more serene, relaxing, and therapeutic. It may look like a small thing, but a serene setting can put the sparkle back into your eyes and make your cheeks ruddy and healthy. So catch that stunning sunset, sip craft beer at a relaxing venue with a river view, or spend an afternoon wandering through quiet forest trails. The best part? There are towns in Alabama that offer these kinds of experiences.
