7 Cozy Towns To Visit In Alabama
For its Civil Rights history (Alabama is the birthplace of Rosa Parks), underappreciated natural beauty, and signature white BBQ sauce, Alabama should be on the to-do list of every vacationer. Plus, it is hard to believe the amount of crystal-clean, blue-green water in this state. The places down here look downright Caribbean. The Cotton State also boasts more navigable stream miles than any other state in the country. And that is without mentioning the nice, friendly people, delicious seafood, and an array of small, cozy towns. Discover the seven cozy towns that you can visit in Alabama.
Opelika
Content to play little sister to Auburn, Opelika is a former railroad town whose quiet charm earns it a spot among the seven cozy towns to visit in Alabama. Get a peek into the area’s history and culture at the free-to-enter Museum of East Alabama, whose fascinating displays include memorabilia from Camp Opelika, a World War II POW camp. Opelika is artsy, and the downtown area is packed with eye-catching murals. It is one of a few towns in the United States with a mural trail. Also, this town hosts a clock museum, the only one of its kind south of the Mason-Dixon Line.
There is also the chance to learn the intricate process of crafting whiskey and other spirits at the family-owned John Emerald Distilling Company, the site of the first legal whiskey distilled in Alabama since Prohibition. A stroll through the Northside Historic District will reveal beautiful turn-of-the-century homes now lovingly restored to match their original appearance.
Fairhope
Here is what to do in Fairhope. Park your car somewhere convenient and just enjoy traipsing through Fairhope on foot. Although it is not the same for every part of town, the downtown area is quite walkable. One can work her way to the aptly named Page & Pallette, an independent bookstore that captures the town's culture and brings people together through books, coffee, and even beer. While Coffee Loft is on the other side of town and may require a short drive, the salmon bagels here — and the mocha latte — are among the best in the world.
From here, head to the pier, pass the time at Fairhope City Park, or enjoy some delectable fried oysters at the Big Daddy's Grill, located next to a boat dock on Fish River. Although it cannot hold a candle to The Ritz-Carltons, Key West Inn is cozy, reasonably priced, and conveniently located.
Gulf Shores
Gulf Shores is the quintessential vacation destination for spreading a beach blanket, enjoying a cool breeze, walking on sugar-white sand, and inhaling waterfront views. And it is not just the ocean. The 900-acre Lake Shelby is often the site of numerous outdoor activities, including boating, water skiing, and swimming. The last is because it is a freshwater lake. One can enjoy a delectable meal on the marina at LuLu's — or just explore its arcade and gift shop.
If seafood is all one craves, DeSotos and King Neptunes provide a range of salty flavors hard to beat anywhere else along the coast. This done, nothing stops one from riding the 40-minute ferry to the much less crowded Dauphin Island, affectionately called the Sunset Capital of Alabama.
Florence
If you have seen or heard about the architectural grandeur of Florence, Italy, its world-class museums, historical landmarks, and heart-melting scenery — you will want to explore the Alabama town named for it. America’s "Renaissance City" hosts the University of North Alabama's beautiful 130-acre campus, where Greek Revival architecture provides a beautiful contrast to much more modern styles. The university’s limestone Harrison Fountain, an awesome sight to behold, was reportedly imported all the way from Italy.
Amble through the town’s historic districts, especially Walnut Street and Wood Avenue, where colonial-style homes date back to the 1900s. The Rosenbaum House, built in the 1940s, is one of the best examples of Frank Lloyd Wright's Usonian style, unique for its simplicity, efficiency, and open floor plans. It is the only Frank Lloyd Wright house in Alabama. One can pass the time at the 70-acre Deibert Park or catch a magical sunset at McFarland Park, as the nearby Tennessee River reflects the sun’s iridescent rays.
Camden
Ranked among the best river towns in the South, the cozy town of Camden is home to a historical Baptist church, where Martin Luther King Jr once preached, and which will pique the interest of those interested in the Civil Rights history of the United States. Antioch Baptist Church opened its doors in 1885 and, therefore, is among the oldest African-American churches in Wilcox County. The Pecan is known for yummy salads and sandwiches and is worth popping into.
The Alabama River, the longest in the state, runs through the town and imbues it with a lovely, rustic ambiance. A hunting and fishing mecca, Camden will particularly thrill outdoor enthusiasts. At Roland Cooper State Park, for instance, one can book a rustic cabin and have fun hunting, fishing, or bird watching. Camden is in the Black Belt region, and the Black Belt Treasures Cultural Arts Center showcases the arts and crafts of artists from all around the Black Belt region of the state.
Monroeville
Many consider Monroeville the literary capital of Alabama for several reasons, including inspiring Nelle Harper Lee to write one of the most acclaimed works in literature: To Kill a Mockingbird. The book became an instant success and won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1961. Oprah Winfrey called it “our national novel.” While you will not meet the talented but reclusive award-winning writer (She died in her sleep in 2016) — Monroeville is dotted with several signs and sites that honor and celebrate the author’s literary legacy.
Monroe County Museum, for example, displays photos and memorabilia that help tell the story of Lee’s childhood, family, and the role Monroeville played in her writing career. “A Celebration of Reading,” a bronze sculpture on the Monroeville courthouse square, features a barefoot girl in pigtails, intended to look like Scout, a character in To Kill a Mockingbird. There is also the Monument to Atticus Finch and the Old Monroe County Bank, where Lee wrote portions of her landmark novel.
Mentone
“Let freedom ring from Lookout Mountain of Tennessee.” Americans are familiar with Martin Luther King Jr.’s animated voice. Mentone is beautifully curled up at the top of Lookout Mountain, the one mentioned by King in a speech believed to be one of history’s finest. Famous as a summer camp destination, Mentone has beautiful mountain views and is a sweet, cozy place that often serenades first-time visitors. Wildflower is a cute restaurant with a hippie vibe and delicious eats — the go-to venue for savory tomato pie.
Many dining options are set in the backdrop of wooded forests and a landscape that is among the most bucolic in Alabama. Brow Park features a tasty view of the valley between Lookout Mountain and Sand Mountains — and provides one of the most heart-stirring sunsets in the area. Outdoor spots abound, where one can breathe some crisp, playful air, including DeSoto Falls, DeSoto State Park, and Little River Canyon State Preserve.
The Takeaway
Whoever claims the Gulf Coast states are all flat — and with nothing inspiring in the terrain — has not visited Alabama. This historic state features some beautiful elevations, especially in the regions around Birmingham, something that will be a surprising revelation to a first-time vacationer. Alabama is also dotted with towns that brim with history related to the Civil War and Civil Rights, excellent outdoor spots, and finger-licking culinary spots. Many of these towns are cozy and welcoming, making them ideal places from which to explore the surrounding beauty. For a few specific recommendations, check out Opelika, Fairhope, and Gulf Shores.
