These 8 Towns In Alabama Feel Like Home
Alabama is home to many firsts, from hosting the first Mardi Gras to the nation’s first flying school and the first state to deem Christmas a holiday to the first protest that sparked the Civil Rights Movement. It boasts 21 state parks spanning 45,000 acres of breathtaking landscapes from pristine Gulf of Mexico (Gulf of America) beaches to the majesty of the Appalachian Mountains and is the birthplace of famed musicians, American historic icons, and literary honorees.
Known as the Heart of Dixie, Alabama's southern hospitality makes visitors feel like part of the family. These eight towns in Alabama feel just like home.
Monroeville
As inspiration to some of the most noted authors of American Literature, Monroeville is the Literary Capital of Alabama. The town’s history and artistry capture the warmth and spirit of iconic tales of the south in a community proudly touting the prestigious 2024 Great American Main Street Award (GAMSA).
The town celebrates its literary heritage with an open-air art project, The Literary Capital Sculpture Trail. The sculptures pay homage to the town’s famed authors, from a newspaper on a bench announcing Cynthia Tucker’s Pulitzer Prize to Truman Capote’s iconic fedora and glasses and a mockingbird perched on a branch outside a main street shop denoting the work of Harper Lee to a beautifully ornate hatbox symbolizing Mark Childress’ Crazy in Alabama. The smART Moves Mural Trail complements the sculptures with more than 25 paintings championing town history alongside the stories of famed writers.
The Old Courthouse Museum is one of America’s most iconic courtrooms. You can visit the actual site recreated as a movie set for the classic film To Kill a Mockingbird. Sit on the balcony overlooking the courtroom or get a close-up of the witness chair, judge’s bench, and attorneys’ tables.
Feast on southern favorites, whether it is barbecue at Cherry Street Barbecue, fried catfish at David’s Catfish House, or homestyle cooking at ABCafé.
Tuscumbia
Lovely Tuscumbia takes you back in time with 30 historic properties that are pure Alabama nostalgia. Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, the scenic town is perhaps most well-known as the birthplace and childhood home of Helen Keller. The lovely historic site, Ivy Green, produces the classic play The Miracle Worker in the summer, telling the story of Helen Keller and her visually impaired teacher, Anne Sullivan.
Known as America’s First Frontier Railroad Town, a stop at the Tuscumbia Railroad Historic Depot is a must. Explore the restored 1888 depot’s memorabilia, learn about the town’s history, and experience the interactive train simulators.
Built circa 1828, Belle Mont Mansion is one of the most impressive examples of Jeffersonian Palladian-style houses in the Deep South. It is also one of Alabama’s first plantations and offers tours and events throughout the year.
Spring Park is not the quintessential Alabama park you would expect to find in the center of town. The 48-foot cliffs of Coldwater Falls create a striking picture as the cascading waters tumble into a calming pond. The park’s Claunch Café is a town landmark serving up home-cooked meals since the 1940s. Although it has changed hands and names, the time-honored menu keeps everyone well-fed, including southern-style chicken-fried steak and classic chicken with dressing.
Orange Beach
The shores of Orange Beach are a popular attraction in this hospitable Alabama town. The white sands against the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico (Gulf of America) stretch from Gulf Coast State Park to Perdido Key, Florida.
The Ferris Wheel at the Wharf stands 112 feet tall, making it one of the tallest landmarks in the Southeast. Take in the views of the town up among the treetops and cooling gulf breezes.
The Orange Beach Indian and Sea Museum preserves history in a 1910 schoolhouse. It includes authentic collectibles from families of early fishermen, adding a personal touch to the town's story.
The Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach overlooks Wolf Bay, where the coastal views make a stunning backdrop for the gallery’s work by Gulf Coast artists.
Feel right at home at Luna’s Eat & Drink with its old-fashioned southern comfort, hometown favorites, and charming little bungalow complete with an outdoor courtyard. Enjoy watching a game with locals in the pub or hunker down to a plate of soulful seafood.
Guntersville
Beautiful Lake Guntersville is the scenic backdrop for welcoming Guntersville, Alabama. Sitting on the southern tip of the Tennessee River, this town’s historic main street feels like the kind of small town you can call home.
Lake Guntersville State Park’s spellbinding scenery, miles of hiking trails, and shimmering waters are common attractions in this part of Alabama. However, for a unique way to experience the beauty of the park, dinner at The Pinecrest Dining Room combines culinary adventures with the stunning views of the scenery, no hiking required. Located high atop Taylor Mountain, you can dine on lodge favorite, shrimp and grits, while taking in the unmatched panoramic view of Lake Guntersville.
Fort Payne
Located near the Appalachian’s Lookout Mountain, Fort Payne’s pristine surroundings against the landscape of Little River Canyon National Preserve offer plenty of fresh air in a quintessential small-town setting.
The Little River flows atop Lookout Mountain in northeast Alabama, where nature lovers admire the stunning forested area, canyons, bluffs, and cascading waterfalls of the Little River Canyon. The preserve boasts three spectacular waterfalls and over 26 miles of scenic trails, from peaceful walks along the river to more challenging hikes down the canyon. For those who prefer driving, Little River Canyon Rim Parkway covers 23 miles with eight overlooks between Little River Falls and Canyon Mouth Park’s west rim.
The Fort Payne Depot Museum sits in the 85-year-old former train depot with an impressive stone façade of locally quarried pink and white sandstone. Discover artifacts, 1800 to 1900 farm equipment, railroad memorabilia, and other historic items telling stories behind the distinct arched windows of the Romanesque building.
After taking in the splendor of the canyon and town history, settle in for a meal at Vintage 1889. Located in the 134-year-old Big Mill Company building, whether you dine in their cozy dining room or beneath the town’s old water tower in their Courtyard, the attentive servers and satisfying menu are sure to delight.
Gulf Shores
The completion of the Intracoastal Waterway and opening of the Gulf State Park in the late 1930s transformed this quiet fishing village into a flourishing tourist town. Today, Gulf Shores' desirable location on the Gulf of Mexico (Gulf of America) makes it a popular destination for beach lovers and retirees seeking warmer climes in the winter. Canadian “snowbirds” flock to the town when cold north winds begin to blow as a testament to the town’s homey feel.
It certainly helps that Gulf Shores boasts eight beaches. However, the friendly community makes it a welcoming spot for people of all walks, including fishing enthusiasts. Whether you prefer saltwater fishing off Gulf State Park Pier or peaceful fishing at Lake Shelby, both the beginner and seasoned angler will love the Gulf Shores fishing experience.
The Pier also offers birding adventures in a diverse habitat, from graceful herons to soaring bald eagles and ospreys to magnificent frigates. The state park’s nature center offers a series of guided tours, including nature, beach, and pier walks.
Treat yourself to a fresh seafood or steak dinner at Diners’ Choice winner Perch, and watch the sunset over the Gulf with a cool cocktail in your hand.
Cullman
Cullman’s location near Smith Lake and its German heritage create a unique brand of southern hospitality. It takes you back to simpler times when fishing at the local lake was a typical way to spend a summer day.
At the heart of North Alabama, Cullman is event central, with festivals leading a steady stream of visitors to the town throughout the year. Discover the town’s German roots at the annual Cullman Oktoberfest for a weekend of traditional food, music, and beer, or plan your trip in the winter to enjoy the magic of Christkindlmarkt to take in the spirit of an authentic German Christmas market complete with festive decorations, tempting holiday treats, and other traditional German-inspired attractions.
Local hospitality thrives in the downtown district. Friendly servers in the town’s best restaurants make you feel like part of the family. Whether it’s authentic barbecue at Moe’s or Johnny’s or the American fare at the Downtown Grill, Cullman restaurants fill you up with hearty favorites.
Jasper
Jasper is in the heart of the Warrior Coal Fields of Northern Alabama. Steeped in history, its heritage sites include The Carl Elliott House Museum, the former home of a trusted President Kennedy advisor, Congressman Carl A. Elliott, Sr. The modest home offers a compelling glimpse at life in Alabama in the town where the Congressman grew up.
Bankhead House and Heritage Center is a grander home, representing the colonial revival style. William Brockman Bankhead served under President Franklin D. Roosevelt as the 47th Speaker of the United States House of Representatives. The center includes a selection of rooms with eclectic displays from quilts to military uniforms.
The Walker County 50 Mule Team is a quirky, colorful display of painted mules appearing throughout Walker County and Jasper. Now including 70 mules, the humble animals share a sense of hometown pride with a touch of whimsy and humor.
Tallulah Kitchen + Brewery is an unexpected culinary experience where you can sample a selection of expertly crafted beers and a sophisticated menu while joining in weekly events including trivia, bingo, and the brewery’s latest releases. It is family game night with a twist.
These eight towns in Alabama feel just like home, whether you are a day tripper, weekend escapist, weeklong vacationer, or adding to your endless road trip of discoveries. Visit the town that inspired some of America’s most accomplished literary artists. Explore the historic events that helped shape the South. Reconnect with nature to release your stress. Experience unique shopping and dining experiences. Whatever your plans, your next adventure should include one of Alabama's most welcoming towns.
