10 Must-Visit Small Towns in Alabama

Living up to its stereotype of Southern hospitality, Alabama is a state of perfect weather and varied colonial remnants of French, British, and Spanish rule. Nicknamed the Heart Of Dixie, Alabama's small-town beauty lies in its annual events and the generational creative efforts of locals. From towns that shaped national history like Selma to gateway communities to a natural paradise like Jasper, let us unveil the ten must-visit Alabama small towns to plan your next escape or road trip. 

Fairhope

Fairhope opens the list with a balanced atmosphere of all elements that make Alabama a must-visit state, From art galleries like Gallery on the Bay and the contemporary Nall Art Foundation to the expansive 260,000 Acers of Mobile–Tensaw River Delta that allows for everything from Kanoing to fishing and hiking, Fairhope is the perfect place to start your exploration of what Alabama's small towns have to offer. The city comes alive with its array of small businesses and creatives with antique shops like Copper Roof Antiques, the Fairhope Soap Company, and stunning art displays like the Art Chateau and The Copper Column, selling everything from paintings to handcrafted hippie-esque jewelry that escape the standard norms with their crafting materials and make for the perfect souvenir or gift. 

Gulf Shores

An idyllic small town for outdoor and nature enthusiasts, Gulf Shores is state-renowned for its pristine beaches, yet it makes the list for its abundance of Southern culture that compliments its landscapes. From live music community events, like the Hangout Music Event with its lineup of diverse internationally-renowned artists, to the annual shrimp fest, Gulf Shores is one of the Alabama towns that comes alive with the creative effort of locals. Aside from all the watersport fun and outdoor activities, visitors flock to Gulf Shores for its one-of-a-kind attractions like the world-famous Flora-Bama beach bar and Waterville USA, a 20-acre waterpark amusement complex and popular vacation attraction. Hike and camp along the waters at Gulf State Park and go birdwatching at local preserves like the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge whenever in Gulf Shores. 

Florence

Located in the scenic northwest corner of the state, Florence stands as a captivating historic town deeply intertwined with its musical roots, widely hailed as the birthplace of the Blues. Florence embraces its roots by supporting creative talents with an art-focused industry of studios like the Fame Recording Studios and cultural performing centers like the Shoals Community Theatre. Celebrate the town’s heritage with locals at the annual W.C. Handy Music Festival held every summer, and learn about the Civil War era at the Pope’s Tavern Museum when you visit Florance. Other major community events in Florence include  The Renisanise Faire, which attracts thousands from all over to cherish Medieval history and commemorate simpler times with sword fight plays, extravagant dining options, and historic cosplay. 

Decatur

A romantic and cozy ambiance sets Decatur apart from other towns on this list for its unique setting along Wheeler Lake of the Tennesee River and the historic downtown area. Decatur is one of the best family escapes for its parks and special community events like the Jubilee Hot Air Balloon Classic and Point Mallard Park, which features a waterpark, golf course, and sports facility on its grounds. Browse the brick-wall downtown streets of Decatur, Alabama, to find a mix of 19th and 20th-century Neoclassic and Victorian architecture and iconic buildings like the Old State Bank and the Decatur Depot. 

Athens

Known for its antebellum architecture and charming town square, Athens offers a glimpse into Alabama’s past through remnants of the bygone era. Adding to the historic element in town is the Athens State University, founded in 1822, which also inherits the popular antebellum designs. The community celebrates its Greek settling heritage with the annual Grease Festival, which combines Southern hospitality with Greek cuisine and delicacies, attracting visitors from all over the state. Immerse yourself in the small-town feel when you walk the historic town square area to shop quaint boutiques and support local street vendors. Hobbs Jewelers, BeansBeans Boutique, and Driftwood Dragonfly’s tea room are a few small businesses to check out during your stay in Athens, each with their unique personal take on decor, merchandise, and customer hospitality. Conveniently located halfway between Huntsville, Alabama, and Nashville, Athens is also an excellent, commutable town to drive through to major cities or charming small towns like Florence.

Eufaula

Another historic town in Alabama, Eufaula is primarily recognized for its historic atmosphere and strong community bond. Situated on the banks of the Chattahoochee River, the Eufaula Pilgrimage is one of the town’s main events, dedicated to showcasing the beauties of Eufaula through guided tours of homes, landmarks and parks. Sitting along the Alabama-Georgia border, Eufaula is also the perfect fishing destination, as it holds the title of the “Bass Capital of the World.” Delve into the town's captivating history with must-visit gems like the distinguished Shorter Mansion, the elegant Fendall Hall, and the sprawling Seth Lore-Irwinton Historic District, known as the largest historic district in East Alabama.

Jasper

Jasper is a gateway community to some of Alabama’s most vibrant landscapes, situated at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains near Lewis Smith Lake. Rolling hills and lush hikeable forests attract nature enthusiasts from around the state for scenic hikes and the nearby Walker County Lake that stretches 163 acres. Lewis-Smith Lake and Bankhead National Forest, spanning 181,230 and north of Jasper, are a few other nature-centric destinations to check out when exploring Jasper. The historic First Methodist Church, Jasper City Hall, and the colonial revival home of the Bankhead House & Heritage Center are some of the town’s landmark buildings to spot on your escape into natural excellence.

Selma

Steeped in history, Selma played a significant role in the civil rights movement and contributed significantly to the Voting Rights Act of 1965 passage. Paying homage to its historical roots, Selma makes this list of must-visit towns in Alabama for being an educational, historical hub with places like the Old Depot Museum that sheds light on American transportation evolution, Selma Interpretive Center that narrates tales of Bloody Sunday and the marches for voting rights, along with the National Voting Rights Museum and Institute. Stay in Selma for a museum-hopping escape, and browse the unique Greek Revival and Victorian architecture like the Sturdivant Hall in Mabry St, a historic mansion now serving as a museum. 

Cullman

Cullman balances German heritage with a Southern Charm and is home to The Ave Maria Grotto, a four-acre park with miniature reproductions of famous religious structures. This must-visit Alabama town is enhanced with natural hidden gems like Hurricane Creek Park, tucked away in the foothills of the Appalachian mountains, and Sportsman Lake Park, offering a range of activities for all ages, from paddleboarding to hiking and golfing. Founded in 1873 by German immigrants, Cullman provides insights into its history through museums like the Cullman County Museum, Peinhardt Living History Farm, and the annual Oktoberfest celebration that starts in September. 

Tuscumbia

Finally, wrapping up the list of must-visit small towns in Alabama is Tuscumbia, a delightful blend of history, contemporary flair, and a tight-knit community feel. Famed for being the birthplace of the deaf-blind political activist and author Helen Keller, Tuscumbia pays homage to its most famous residents, with the Helen Keller Birthplace and Museum one of its most popular tourist attractions. Embrace the local scene at the Tennessee Valley Art Center and tour the walkable downtown and its centric town square home to the iconic Colbert County Courthouse and many boutiques and eateries. 

Discover Alabama’s Small-Town Charms

Beyond the cotton fields that define its agricultural scene and its pride in Southern hospitality, Alabama boasts a rich array of cultural, artistic, and musical events that enhance the welcoming small-town feel. Whether you are a state-local looking to learn more about your homeland or a a traveler seeking a historic and culturally infused experience, this is your sign to back your bags and explore the ten must-visit towns of Alabama.