8 Most Scenic Small Towns in Alabama
Alabama is called "Sweet Home" for a reason, and that is because its small towns are epitomes of natural beauty and grandeur. Across the state, several towns glow in nature's allure, endowed with mountains, gorgeous coastlines, lakes, plains, and more. The downtown areas of these towns are also scenic and lavish, with oak-lined streets, ancient architecture, parks, and quaint shops. From the picturesque beaches of Orange Beach and the stunning Desoto Caverns in Childersburg, here are eight scenic towns in Alabama that should be on your radar.
Fairhope
Fairhope is a beautiful town that promises to capture the hearts of tourists with its unforgettable views as it stands on the eastern shore of Mobile Bay. Most visitors to this town naturally grow fond of one of its picturesque attractions - the Fairhope Municipal Pier. On a cool evening, one can promenade the pier to savor sunset views on the horizon above boats and yachts. In addition, roam its picturesque landscaped rose gardens, enjoy picnics, stroll on walking trails, and swim on the bay. Elsewhere, the Weeks Bay Reserve beckons nature lovers to explore its thousands of acres of forests, wildlife, birds, flowers, marshes, and wetlands. Afterward, visitors can get refilled at the Gambino's Italian Grill, and the end with a bit of the town’s history at the Fairhope Museum of History.
Guntersville
Guntersville brims with picture-perfect scenery by the banks of the Tennessee River that feeds Lake Guntersville. This lake is the largest in Alabama at 69,000 acres and serves as the town's highlight tourist attraction. For recreational purposes, the lake is housed under the Guntersville Lake State Park, providing the stage for various water sports adventures. The park is home to 36 miles of hiking and biking trails, a golf course, and a zipline for thrilling rides above the scenery. While exploring the town, a bit of history at the Guntersville Museum and Cultural Center will spice things up. Afterward, head to the Whole Backstage Theatre to enjoy some shows and then stop at the Old Town Stock House for sensational cuisines.
Childersburg
Childersburg is a quaint town along the pristine Coosa River in western Talladega County, featuring unspoiled natural charms. Upon arrival, visitors are welcomed with views of the Appalachian Mountains framing the town and giving it a picture-perfect natural background. Next, one can witness more beauty at the Majestic Caverns - a series of caves with the nickname “Alabama's Big Cave.” Visitors can explore these caves on tours and experience the chilling vibe. Meanwhile, for a more positive experience, the Splash Pad water park with rides and slides is a wonderful option. For nature and history lovers, head to the Kymulga Mill and Covered Bridge Park to hike and see beautiful trees, a creek, and historic structures dating to the American Civil War. Keep in mind that Childersburg is the oldest town in Alabama, so before leaving, visit the Butler Harris Rainwater Museum to embark on a journey through time.
Tuscumbia
Tuscumbia is one of Alabama's most beautiful towns, nestled at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains and flanked by the flowing Tennessee River. While the scenery is everywhere, this town is home to interesting attractions like Cane Canyon Creek Preserve, which features miles of hiking trails that expose visitors to captivating waterfalls, wildflower areas, and the canyon's scenic overlook, among other fascinating views. Spring Park is another scenic attraction in Tuscumbia, featuring a lake with a 51-jet fountain, a large artificial stone waterfall, a playground, and picnic shelters. While outdoor beauty is abundant, the town is also rich with culture, palpable through various sites. One example is the Alabama Music Hall of Fame, which honors music icons across the state. Meanwhile, history buffs should head to the Ivy Green Historic Museum, the birthplace and childhood home of Hellen Keller, a famed American author, disability rights advocate, and political activist.
Orange Beach
When it comes to outdoor scenery, there's always something spectacular about beach towns. From the miles of gorgeous sugar-white beaches overlapping the ocean to the dazzling turquoise-blue colors of the waters, Orange Beach is no exception. The town lies on the shores of the Gulf Coast in Alabama, garnering it the nickname “the Florida of Alabama.” Upon arrival, the beaches beckon travelers, such as Cotton Bayou, Orange, and Romar beaches, where one can kick back and enjoy ocean views. Additionally, these beaches are prime locations for kayaking, fishing, boating, and swimming experiences. Explore the waters to spot dolphins with Dolphin & Sailing Tours by Cetacean Cruises, and relax at the Big Fish Restaurant and Bar to savor fresh seafood. For those traveling with family, the Adventure Island Amusement Park is a great attraction, featuring arcade games, a hidden lagoon, a waterfront park, and an erupting volcano.
Daphne
Daphne lies pristinely on the eastern shores of Mobile Bay, where its photogenic character resonates with the world. Once here, visitors can head to the Bayfront Park to lose track of time as it features hiking trails, beach access, picnic areas, and more. Next, escape to the Village Point Park Preserve, which offers visitors front-row seats to the town's public beach on the bay, alongside a boardwalk for sightseeing tours, as its natural scenery makes for exciting visual indulgences.
A short drive away, Dauphin Island offers a wonderful abode encompassed by water on all sides. This island has a range of new activities that’ll make any trip exciting. For example, history buffs can visit the historic Fort Gaines on the banks of the Gulf of Mexico to watch playbacks of historical events and learn more about the fort's role in the Civil War. Afterwards, hike and enjoy scenic sights of birds at the Audubon Bird Sanctuary, which makes the island one of the nation's birdiest communities.
Fort Payne
Fort Payne in DeKalb County may flaunt its reputation as the “Official Sock Capital of the World”; however, the town is more prominent for its surrounding natural attractions. One of its highlight natural draws is the Desoto State Park, just 5 miles away, offering a viewpoint of Lookout Mountain. Here, visitors can behold the magnificence of the 104-foot Desoto Falls, surrounded by lush greenery and fragrant colorful flowers. The park is also a haven for kayaking, swimming, boating, rappelling, and canoeing on the Little River within its border, while 25 miles of hiking trails delight hikers. If this isn’t enough, the Little River Canyon National Preserve is also nearby, home to the country's longest mountaintop river and multiple waterfalls, such as Grace’s High Falls and Little River Falls. After all the outdoor adventures, get to know more about the town at the Fort Payne Depot Museum and grab some antique souvenirs at the Big Mill Antique Mall.
Magnolia Springs
Magnolia Springs is positioned on the unsullied banks of the Magnolia River, flaunting an irresistible natural appeal. Once touted as Alabama's Prettiest Town, a visit here would convince any skeptic that this town deserves that award. For starters, the Magnolia River is a pristine reprieve, perfect for enjoying kayaking, swimming, boating, and fishing experiences. Away from the river, the downtown is also beautiful as it is characterized by well-shaded streets, with towering oak and magnolia trees forming guards of honor for pedestrians to walk through. Adventurers can bask in the great outdoors at the nearby Gulf State Park to explore its gorgeous sand beach, swim in the waters of the Gulf of Mexico, and enjoy picnics. Don't leave town without enjoying fresh, tantalizing seafood at Jesse's Restaurant.
Conclusion
The small towns of Alabama are postcard-perfect destinations that lure tourists to escape the hustle and bustle of big cities. These towns are either laid at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains or gracing the banks of rivers and the Gulf of Mexico. Regardless of the natural attraction in the background, one thing is common among them - natural beauty. Hence, it is impossible to divorce these towns from their magical allure, especially with their smaller populations and fewer visitors. When it's time to hop the beauty of small towns in Alabama, an open mind is a mental requirement because the experience is mind-blowing.
