9 Most Breathtaking Towns In Alabama
With a rich history, glistening crystal-clear waters, sandy shores, and warm southern hospitality, Alabama is a fantastic destination you need to visit. Unravel the extraordinary beauty and fascinating culture of "The Cotton State" as you head on a captivating journey from Gulf Shores to Opelika. Pack your bags, grab your sunglasses, and set out to explore the nine most breathtaking towns in Alabama. Prepare to make unforgettable memories that will last you a lifetime!
Gulf Shores
Find a piece of paradise in Gulf Shores, a stunning small town on the gorgeous Gulf of Mexico. Soak in the incredible scenery of crystal-clear turquoise waters as you lie back and relax in Gulf State Park, or go canoeing and kayaking on Lake Shelby. Meet captivating creatures at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, home to a diverse array of exotic wildlife. Take the kids to splash around and play in the Waterville USA/Escape House, where 20 acres of amusement, waterpark, and other attractions await, before you practice your aim in a scenic setting at Craft Farms Golf Club.
Eufaula
Welcome to Eufaula, one of the most breathtaking towns in Alabama and a picture-perfect place for history buffs. Wander around town, seeing the extraordinary 19th-century homes and structures. Dive deeper into local history at The Shorter Mansion, an opulent home built in 1884 that now houses historic memorabilia. Nature lovers can head over to Eufaula Lake, an excellent spot for boating, swimming, and fishing. The city is often called the "Big Bass Capital of the World." Take photos with Manny, a famous 12-foot-tall fiberglass bass statue, named after the town's iconic fisherman, Tom Mann.
Orange Beach
Another destination for beach lovers, a trip to Orange Beach will make you feel like you have stepped straight into a tropical paradise. The crystal-clear waters here are almost surreal, bordered by soft sugar-white sand beaches, and the opportunities for outdoor adventures are endless. Get sun-kissed on Alabama Point East, lying back on the sands, and see what marine creatures you can find. For more wildlife experiences, book a cruise with one of the town's tour operators to venture out into the waters and spot dolphins. Once you are back on land, wander through The Wharf, an entertainment district that vibrantly lights up the town. Stop by the quaint local shops, visit the incredible eateries, and even take a spin on the Ferris Wheel for an experience you will never forget.
Mentone
Discover magnificent mountain scenery and riveting outdoor adventures in Mentone. Experience the natural beauty of Alabama as you start or continue your equestrian journey through scenic trails via Shady Grove Horse Ranch. Combine nature with history as you wander over the 110-foot-long Old Union Crossing Covered Bridge, reconstructed over the 1800s cable bridge. Enjoy a relaxing stay at Bee on the Brow Bed and Breakfast; gorgeous views await from atop Lookout Mountain with spectacular sunsets and lovely stargazing opportunities. Stop by The Groovy Goat in town and see what quaint souvenirs and charming gifts you will find to take home.
Magnolia Springs
Recognized for its beautiful setting along the Magnolia River, Magnolia Springs is undoubtedly one of the most breathtaking towns in Alabama. Wander through the picturesque tree-lined streets of this unique destination, home to the only remaining mail delivery river route in the United States. Taste fresh seafood or delicious steak in Jesse’s Restaurant, where fine dining meets a comfortable, charming atmosphere. Pay a visit to St. Paul's Episcopal Chapel, an iconic landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places and the Alabama Register of Historic Places, completed in 1902. Plan a cozy stay in Magnolia Springs Bed and Breakfast, an extraordinary restored inn originally built in 1897, offering luxurious accommodations and warm southern hospitality.
Dauphin Island
If postcard-perfect scenery and a relaxed atmosphere sound like your cup of tea, welcome to Dauphin Island. “The Sunset Capital of Alabama” boasts mesmerizing powdery beaches, intriguing forts, and an abundance of wildlife by the picturesque Gulf Coast. Learn about habitats from the state’s four coastal regions, including Mobile Bay, the Barrier Islands, the Northern Gulf of Mexico, and the Mobile Tensaw River Delta in the Alabama Aquarium (Dauphin Island Sea Lab), exploring the lovely visual and interactive exhibits. Wildlife lovers can also spot birds in the Audubon Bird Sanctuary, which is dedicated to protecting and preserving Dauphin Island’s habitat for migratory and local species. From there, pay a visit to Fort Gaines, a significant site during the Civil War. Its well-preserved ramparts have been guarding the entrance to Mobile Bay for over 150 years.
Fort Payne
Head into the heart of the Appalachians to visit Fort Payne, one of the most breathtaking towns in Alabama. Capture striking photos of the rushing waterfalls and lovely wildflowers of DeSoto State Park, a stunning site situated atop Lookout Mountain. Make your way into the picturesque Little River Canyon National Preserve, seeing the extraordinary sandstone cliffs, captivating canyon rims, and exquisite waterfalls. Uncover historic exhibits featuring fascinating memorabilia from the Civil War, World Wars, and Vietnam War in the Fort Payne Depot Museum, now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Fairhope
Discover Fairhope, a stunning southern town located off the shore of Mobile Bay. Enjoy a lovely morning stroll from the Fairhope Municipal Pier, or see the spectacular sunsets. This is also a wonderful spot for birdwatching, with Summer Tanagers, Red-bellied Woodpeckers, Eastern Screech Owls, Acadian Flycatchers, and other species frequenting the area. Sit back and relax with a craft beer at Fairhope Brewing Company; trivia nights, live music, bingo, run club, and other special events are scheduled here. Explore the Fairhope Museum of History, set in a historic, circa 1928 Spanish mission-style building that once served as City Hall.
Opelika
Explore the captivating downtown area of Opelika, home to historic landmarks including the Museum of East Alabama, filled with 4,000 fascinating artifacts spanning the past century. Take the kids for a day of fun-filled activities at Surge Adventure Park, from Trapeze to Dodgeball, Trampolines, Basketball, and Climbing. Collect all kinds of goods in Angel’s Antique & Flea Mall, where over 500 vendors offer goods across more than 68,000 square feet. While you are here, work on your aim at RTJ Golf Trail at Grand National, soaking in the beautiful lakeside scenery.
Takeaways
Between beautiful beaches, intriguing forts, extraordinary wildlife, and warm and welcoming southern hospitality, "The Cotton State" offers it all. From the soft sands of Gulf Shores to the riverside charm of Magnolia Springs and the historic wonders of Opelika, these are the 9 most breathtaking towns in Alabama. Add these incredible destinations to your travel list and be prepared to make long-lasting memories you will cherish forever in a truly fascinating state.
