8 Underappreciated Towns to Visit in Alabama

Alabama lies between Tennessee, Georgia, Mississippi, Florida, and the marvelous Gulf of Mexico. A charming holiday destination and the 24th most populous state in the United States of America. Housing cities as large as Birmingham and many small, cozy towns like Bayou La Batre sprinkled across the Gulf of Mexico, Alabama, is perfect for planning the perfect day trip with family and friends.

With fantastic food, beautiful white sandy beaches, a hospitable population, and calming weather, especially during winter, Alabama attracts a host of visitors. Below are nine underappreciated towns in Alabama that make a good holiday destination for your next trip.

Bayou La Batre

Brimming with maritime heritage and brilliant cuisines, Bayou La Batre is a charming town located along the Gulf of Mexico. Popularly known as the 'Seafood Capitol of Alabama,' Bayou La Batre is a community with roots sunken in the shrimping and fishing industry.

For visitors, this town is a gem. The Bayou La Batre Community Center is a must-see spot as it provides insights into the town's history and how important it is to the fishing industry. The Grand Bay Reserve is a great spot for outdoor recreation. Alongside viewing the beautiful landscape, you can also hike, watch diverse bird species, and immerse yourself in wildlife photography if it is your thing. The Coden Beach is also popular for picnicking and swimming. For the best seafood in the town, visit Skinner's Seafood Market or Lighthouse Restaurant. Remember to try the popular shrimp dishes while you're at it.

Fairhope

Perched on the eastern shore of Mobile Bay, Fairhope is a breathtaking town known for its tree-lined streets, vibrant arts scene, and breathtaking sunsets. It was founded in the late 19th century and has become a haven for artists, writers, and nature lovers.

The Fairhope Museum of History exposes you to the town's fascinating past, while the Eastern Shore Art Center showcases works by local and regional artists. Nature lovers will enjoy the ambiance of Fairhoper's Community Park, including the 25-acre Fairhope City Parks & Rec and Fairhope Municipal Pier. A stroll along the Pier allows visitors to enjoy the bird's-eye view of Mobile Bay and its surrounding coastline. The Fairhope Arts and Crafts Festival, held yearly in March, features works of craftsmen across the world, while the Film Festival, held in November, features different independent films and presents a perfect relaxation opportunity.

Guntersville

The town of Guntersville, located by the shores of Lake Guntersville, lures travelers with its scenic beauty and rich history. It was named after John Gunter, an early settler who established a trading post in the 19th century. Guntersville is a perfect blend of cultural attractions and outdoor adventures, to the delight of visitors.

The main attraction is Lake Guntersville State Park. It is a sprawling wilderness area covering 6,000 acres of forests, mountains, and shoreline. Visitors come here for bird-watching, fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities. The park also has a resort lodge for accommodation purposes. History buffs will enjoy visiting the Guntersville Museum and Cultural Center, which showcases exhibits about the town's Native American heritage and local industrial prowess. Guntersville is home to several festivals and events during the year, such as the annual Guntersville Lake Hydrofest held in June, where you can enjoy watching high-speed boat races on Lake Guntersville.

Gulf Shores

Sitting along the coastline of the Gulf of Mexico is Gulf Shores, a popular beach destination loved for its particularly white sands, blue waters, and vibrant beach culture. Gulf Shores has something to offer everybody.

The main attraction in Gulf Shores is its beautiful beaches, which you may visit at the iconic Gulf State Park Beach. Here, you can enjoy the sunlight, swim, or engage in various water sports. For nature lovers, the Gulf State Park is a good place to visit. You can go biking and hiking through diverse coastal ecosystems while birdwatching and taking amazing pictures of wildlife. The Red Roof Inn offers bespoke accommodation for visitors. The Hangout Music Festival is popular in this town. It is a three-day music festival where you can get to meet top artists and share a drink or two with the wonderful people of the town.

Dauphin Island

Dauphin Island is a serene barrier island located at the mouth of Mobile Bay. The island is known for its clear beaches, wildlife, and rich maritime past. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful holiday exploring the outdoors without any reminder of their busy lives.

One of the main places to see on Dauphin Island is the Dauphin Island Sea Lab Estuarium. This facility educates both visitors and locals on marine life in the waters of the Gulf of Mexico and Mobile Bay by showcasing live animals and other interactive exhibits. The Audubon Bird Sanctuary is a birdwatcher’s haven as it houses over 160 species of birds from the island. The historic Fort Gaines shows a glimpse of the island's military past. The annual Dauphin Island Regatta in April is a great event to see sailors from the Gulf Coast compete in sailing races, and you can cap the day by relaxing at the Dauphin Island Harbor House.

Orange Beach

Orange Beach is a thriving coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, fishing, and outdoor activities.

The Wharf is the center of premium entertainment in this town. Visitors can catch a concert at the Wharf Amphitheater or enjoy mouth-watering dishes at one of the waterfront restaurants. For more access to the best seafood dishes in town, be sure to attend the Annual National Shrimp Festival held every October. You can sample as many dishes as you want while vibing to live music. The Fairfield Inn and Suites on Orange Beach and SpringHill Suites are amazing accommodation centers that overlook the beach. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail provides lots of scenic hiking and biking trails through pure coastal habitats. At the same time, the Orange Beach Golf Center is a place of attraction for golfers of all skill levels.

Fort Payne

Fort Payne is another underrated charming town in Alabama popular for its stunning scenery, outdoor recreation, and rich cultural heritage. Originally inhabited by Cherokee Native Americans, the town's history dates back centuries, with remnants of ancient rock shelters and artifacts still visible today.

DeSoto State Park is the town's favorite attraction. It offers miles of hiking trails, scenic waterfalls, and breathtaking mountain landscapes. You can also explore the Little River Canyon Preserve for your hiking and biking activities. The Fort Payne Depot Museum showcases exhibits that give a glimpse into the town's industrial past. The nearby Alabama Fan Club and Museum is also a great spot for history buffs. The Boom Days Heritage Celebration, held every September, features live music, historical exhibits, and pieces from various arts and crafts vendors to give you a feel of the town's culture.

Opelika

Opelika was founded originally as a railroad junction in the mid-19th century. It is a thriving community beloved for its harmonious mix of restaurants and cultural attractions, which leaves a lasting impression on visitors.

In Opelika, the Historic Downtown District houses beautifully preserved Victorian-era buildings, boutique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes. The Opelika Railroad Museum is a great way for you to understand the town's railroad heritage. If you're a nature enthusiast, you may enjoy the scenic beauty of Monkey Park and the peaceful waters of Municipal Park. The Grand National Golf Course, a top-ranked golf course, is a center of attraction in this town. The Opelika Public Library opened in 2021 and contains books about the culture of the town. For live entertainment, the Opelika Azalea and Dogwood Festival, held every March to April, is one you must not miss. The Comfort Inn in Opelika offers accomodation to tourists and an opportunity to interact with the locals.

Discover Tranquility in Alabama's Hidden Highlights

With a tranquil environment and cozy towns nestled along the Gulf of Mexico, Alabama makes for a great spot to enjoy time away from work. With the scenic views, the historic nature of the town, and many outdoor adventures, there is an adventure for everyone. All you have to do is pack your bags and be prepared for the time of your life.