12 Most Scenic Towns in Alabama
In the Heart of Dixie, Alabama has it all. From mountains, deep canyons, meandering rivers, and dense forests, Alabama is a state known for its freshwater diversity. The 22nd state is also home to a diverse collection of unique small towns. Here are 12 of the most scenic towns in Alabama.
Mooresville
With a population of roughly 50 people, Mooresville is the smallest on this list. But just because it's small doesn't mean it isn't bursting with charm and history! The entire town is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, making it a must-visit for history lovers. One of the churches in town, the Church of Christ, which was built in 1854, is where President James A. Garfield preached.
Step back in time and experience life in the early 1800s at the restored Stagecoach Inn and Tavern- one of the oldest frame public buildings in the state of Alabama, which has been restored, and is now a museum. Stroll through town to see the beautiful churches and buildings dating back to the 1800s, and enjoy old-fashioned treats, sweets, and unique souvenirs in town in shops like Lyla's Little House. Be sure to mail a postcard home from the Mooresville post office- the oldest continuing operating post office in the state and one of the oldest in the country.
Eufaula
A quintessential Southern town with oodles of charm, Eufaula is located on the edges of Walter F. George Lake and across the lake from the state of Georgia. Eufaula was an important riverport during the late 19th century. Steamboats used the town's position on the Chattahoochee River as a place to trade. To learn more about the town's past and its stunning architecture, visit the Shorter Mansion and Museum.
Take advantage of its outdoor activities, and enjoy swimming, boating, and relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Lake Eufaula. To spot migratory waterfowl and other unique wildlife, including American bald eagles, be sure to visit the Eufaula National Wildlife Refuge, where visitors can also fish, hunt and hike.
Guntersville
Calling all bird watchers! Northern Alabama is a great place to watch wildlife; Guntersville is no exception. Spot American bald eagles at Lake Guntersville State Park during the winter months, mainly January and February. To learn more about the avian species native to the area, and the historic steamboats that sailed on Lake Guntersville, check out the Guntersville Museum and Cultural Center.
While in town, Guntersville's walkable main street is great for antique and boutique shoppers. With boutique stores such as The Red Elephant Marketplace, and Hidden JEM's Mercantile, the town's main street is a great spot to spend an afternoon.
Monroeville
Known as the "Literary Capital of Alabama," Monroeville was the inspiration for Harper Lee's fictional town of Maycomb in the best-selling novel To Kill a Mockingbird and the writer's hometown. The old Monroe County Courthouse was the location of the courthouse in the film adaptation of To Kill a Mockingbird and the inspiration for the courthouse in the novel. You can visit the courthouse, as it is now The Old Courthouse Museum and open to the public. While in town, you can also see the play version of To Kill a Mockingbird, which is put on year-round at the Otha Lee Biggs Amphitheater.
Monroeville is a very picturesque town and has plenty to see. There are countless opportunities to admire local art and learn about its origins. The Monroe County murals throughout town tell the town's history in beautiful visual detail. A guided tour of the murals is available in town and is completely free.
Bayou La Batre
Bayou La Batre is a small town with a big soul, situated along the Gulf Coast on the Mississippi Sound. Home of the fictional character Bubba Gump from the iconic film Forest Gump, Bayou La Batre is known for its seafood. At the official Seafood Capital of Alabama, visitors have the opportunity to enjoy some of the best southern cuisine in the state. Indulge in a seafood boil at Cudjo Seafood, or catch your own dinner on a fishing charter.
Winter and Springtime are great times to visit due to mild temperatures and for the crawfish season. Just be prepared to peel your own dinner!
Fairhope
Located on the eastern shore of Mobile Bay, Fairhope is a peaceful town with warm weather, scenic views, and incredible food. Sitting on the bluffs that overlook Mobile Bay, Fairhope has the laid-back vibe of a waterfront town. Feast on oysters at the Bluegill REsaurant, known for their "flaming oysters" grilled with butter and parmesan. When you visit, be sure to mind the signs around the restaurant, which warn visitors not to feed the alligators.
In town, the Page & Palette Bookstore sells signed copies of local authors such as Rick Bragg, Winston Groom, Fannie Flagg, and many others. The store's in-house coffee shop is the perfect spot to grab a latte to enjoy while browsing the shelves for your next read.
Cullman
The city of Cullman was founded by European settler Colonel John G. Cullman, who was from Bavaria, Germany in 1873. Cullman's German heritage is clear throughout key buildings in town. The Cullman County Museum is designed to look like founder John Cullman's home and includes exhibits and artifacts from the early German settlers.
One of the most unique attractions in town is the Ave Maria Grotto. The 4-acre park is home to 125 miniature reproductions of the most famous religious structures in the world. The stone works were created by Joseph Zoetle, a Benedictine Monk who used to reside at St. Bernard's Abbey. The sculptures are lovely, cared for with attention to detail, and decorated with colored glass, marble, and tiles. Replicas include St. Peter's Square in the Vatican City, Old Jerusalem, and other religious monuments from around the world.
Mentone
Mentone is the most elevated town in the state, in the woods on Lookout Mountain. The town is between the state's only ski resort, Cloudmont Ski and Golf Resort, and the Shady Grove Dude Ranch.
A unique combination of a Southern town, and an alpine village, Mentone has stunning mountain views and amazing comfort food. If you're hungry, swing by the Wildflower Cafe, an eclectic eatery known for its tomato pie. The Rest Easy cabin is a great spot to stay for a cozy cabin experience, and the Shady Grove Dude Ranch is the place to go for horseback riding along the trails to Desoto Falls.
Fort Payne
With a stunning backdrop of Lookout Mountain, De Soto State Park, and Little River Canyon National Preserve, there are many reasons why Fort Payne is a tourism destination. The most surprising claim to fame may be the town's nickname of "Sock Capital of the World." Home to many hosiery manufacturers, Fort Payne once was home to roughly 100 sock mills, which employed 7000 workers.
Fort Payne has many historical sites, including The Fort Payne Depot Museum, a train station built in 1891 that now showcases Native American and local history artifacts. Fort Payne has a museum dedicated to the locally formed southern rock band Alabama- The Alabama Fan Club and Museum.
Magnolia Springs
Magnolia Springs is really pretty. Named for its countless magnolia trees and natural springs that dot the river banks, Magnolia Springs is one of the few remaining towns in the USA that has its mail delivered to riverside mailboxes by boat.
A great spot for a weekend away, book one of the five cozy rooms at the Magnolia Springs Bed & Breakfast and enjoy a meal at Jesse's, a restaurant known for its expertly cooked steaks, southern classics, including shrimp and grits, and fried catfish.
Tuscumbia
Dating back to the early 19th century, modern-day Tuscumbia is a picturesque historic town with a beautiful downtown that is home to some of Alabama's most impressive antebellum architecture. The town's biggest claim to fame is that it is the birthplace of author and activist Helen Keller. Her former home Ivy Green is now a museum where visitors can see insights into her early life.
If you love camping, the Hidden Creek Campground is a tranquil retreat where you can enjoy the Alabama landscape and relax near the water. Visit Spring Park, which is home to the scenic man-made waterfall Coldwater Falls. If you are a music lover, the Alabama Music Hall of Fame celebrates the contributions of Alabama-based musicians, including Nat King Cole and the Commodores.
Opelika
Auburn, Alabama's little sister, Opelika, has a charming downtown, with railroad tracks that run through its main street. Known for its railroad history, in 1848, the Montgomery & West Point Railroad company built a rail line from Montgomery to Opelika, and three years later, they put in a second line that led to West Point, Georgia. The new line became the only rail route from New Orleans to Atlanta, which put Opelika on the map as a major trade town. Today, parts of the historic railroad tracks are still used by freight trains that run along them through downtown Opelika.
Shop, sip, and eat in downtown Opelika at one of the several boutique eateries and stores. Check out Studio 3:19 for women's fashion, 10,000HZ for record and CDs, and Mama Mocha's Coffee for a pick-me-up. For a more adult pick-me-up, take a John Emerald Distilling Company tour. Opened 99 years after Prohibition, father-son duo John and Jimmy Sharp achieved their longtime dream and opened the John Emerald Distilling Company in downtown Opelika. The family-owned distiller has a comprehensive lineup of sports, from single malt whiskey, double oak bourbon, spiced rum, gin, vodka, and even brandy.
Muscle Shoals
In the 1960s, music industry legend Rick Hall opened FAME Studios in Muscle Shoals. Music legends such as Aretha Franklin, Otis Redding, Cher, and the Rolling Stones would go on to record albums at FAME Studios. Today, FAME Studios is a well-known destination for music fans.
After the tour, visit Rattlesnake Saloon, a one-of-a-kind establishment and music venue which is located under natural, overhanging rock structures.
Alabama is a state that has something for everyone. Whether you're a foodie, a music fan, or a history buff, the state's rich history has created one-of-a-kind destinations, making Alabama a great state to explore.
