This Quiet Alabama City Is Hiding In Plain Sight

The town of Gadsden in northeast Alabama began life as a bustling steamboat stop. Founded in 1846 on the scenic shores of the Coosa River, the community grew quickly and, almost two centuries later, is now a city with around 33,000 residents. Despite its size, Gadsden has retained a small-town feel along with notable natural surroundings.

The city appeals to visitors interested in outdoor recreation, with features that include a dramatic waterfall park, riverfront greenways, and convenient access to the Appalachian foothills.

Outdoor Adventure

Gadsden’s best-known natural feature is Noccalula Falls. This cascade drops 90 feet into a rocky gorge and serves as the centerpiece of the 500-acre Noccalula Falls Park, which includes a covered bridge, botanical garden, pioneer homestead, nature trails, a petting zoo, picnic areas, and a year-round campground. According to local legend, the falls are named for an Indian Princess who threw herself into the ravine after being forced into an arranged marriage.

The best way to see the falls up close is by taking the Gorge Trail, which leads down into the ravine to a cavern behind the waterfall. Visitors who prefer not to walk can ride the park’s miniature train on a mile-long route that loops past the park’s main attractions.

Additional outdoor recreation can be found at Hospital Boulders, a boulder field just north of Gadsden, where rock climbers of all skill levels can practice their technique. For more experienced climbers, the site offers several short traditional, sport, and top rope climbs along the west brow of Lookout Mountain.

Back in town, the James D Martin Wildlife Park offers space to bike, walk, or spend time along the shores of Lake Gadsden. The preserve features boardwalks extending into the lake, picnic pavilions, and bike paths. A designated stop on the Alabama Birding Trail, the park draws a wide range of species, including Bald Eagles, Canada Geese, Great Blue Herons, and migratory songbirds.

Things to Do in Downtown Gadsden

Exploring the quiet streets of Gadsden’s historic downtown, it is easy to forget you are in a city. From April to October, the town hosts First Fridays, which close downtown to traffic on the first Friday of each month so locals and visitors can gather and enjoy food vendors, classic car shows, live entertainment, shop sales, and other activities. Visitors who miss a First Friday will still find plenty to do in the downtown area.

Spend a few hours browsing the exhibits and galleries at the Gadsden Museum of Art, which features rotating exhibitions throughout the year. Visitors may also catch a performance or presentation by a local artist. Before leaving, stop by the museum desk to pick up information on the Gadsden Art Walk, a self-guided route highlighting sculptures and murals throughout downtown.

Those interested in purchasing artwork can visit the Walnut Gallery for a one-of-a-kind souvenir. The gallery also operates as a fine arts school and regularly hosts exhibitions, public lectures, poetry readings, independent film screenings, concerts, and community art events.

Places to Stay in Gadsden

There is enough to see and do in Gadsden to warrant an overnight stay or a long weekend. For travelers seeking a quiet and restful setting, The Secret Bed and Breakfast offers a secluded option outside the city.

About 20 minutes north of town, this rural retreat sits atop Lookout Mountain and overlooks the surrounding valley, foothills, and lake. The main lodge includes four guestrooms along with a rooftop pool, patio, and balcony. Guest cottages offer a more private stay and include a tucked-away treehouse, a stone cottage designed for couples, and an 1850s-style jailhouse.

For those preferring a resort-style setting, River Rocks Landing provides a waterfront property with a restaurant overlooking the river, swimming pools, a poolside bar, a clubhouse, and a fitness center. Guests can choose between luxury tiny cottages or RV sites.

A Gadsden Getaway

Just 62 miles from Birmingham, Gadsden offers a slower-paced alternative to the nearby urban center, making it an easy option for short trips or extended stays. Surrounded by natural scenery, the city encourages visitors to take their time and focus on simple experiences rather than packed itineraries. A day might include walking behind a waterfall in the morning, attending an art show in the afternoon, and settling in for the evening in an 1850s jailhouse-style cottage. While it sits slightly off the main travel routes, this quiet Alabama city provides a balanced mix of outdoor access, local culture, and low-key accommodations.