7 Little-Known Towns In Alabama

With 96% of Alabama's land classified as rural, there is so much to explore outside of its cities. As a result, among this vast countryside, some of the state’s most interesting towns are easy to overlook. From award-winning golf courses to dense wetlands and a renowned music hall of fame, you may not be familiar with these towns yet, but you will likely be planning a trip by the end of this article.

Bayou La Batre

Often referred to as the “Seafood Capital of Alabama,” Bayou La Batre, located near Dauphin Island and Mobile, partially inspired Forest Gump. There is an abundance of seafood to try in town, including Catalina Restaurant for fresh seafood, Bayou Seafood Company for crawfish and crab, and Murder Point Oysters for locally raised oysters.

Less than a 15-minute drive away from town, travelers can reach Bellingrath Gardens, 65 acres of well-maintained gardens, featuring thousands of flowers and exquisite plants. Through January 5th, visitors can also attend its Magic Christmas in Lights event, where the gardens will host live music performances and be decorated with thousands of festive lights.

Greenville

Outdoor enthusiasts, particularly golfers, will love Greenville for its natural surroundings. Cambrian Ridge, located on the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, is recognized as one of the most scenic and challenging greens, featuring 27 holes and views of Sherling Lake. Sherling Lake Park nearby is another outdoor option for those who enjoy hiking and camping.

For entertainment in town, stop by the historic Ritz Theatre for a show, which has been open since 1935 and has been beautifully renovated in recent years. For a classic dish such as cajun shrimp pasta or shrimp and grits, visitors can grab dinner at Wintzell's Oyster House. For a light lunch, such as a bowl of soup or fresh pastry, Camellia City Bakery is a cozy and popular bakery in town.

Spanish Fort

Located on the Blakely River near Mobile Bay, Spanish Fort is a gateway to exploring the Alabama wetlands. Meaher State Park is the perfect place to start, featuring a 300-foot pier that overlooks the surrounding wetlands. With both freshwater and saltwater fish in the area, the park and pier are also popular for fishing.

Those interested in battleship and war vessel history must spend an afternoon at the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial, where they can explore a massive battleship, aircraft, tanks, and other significant relics. For some fresh seafood and a waterfront view, grab a meal at Bluegill Restaurant, a highly rated, casual-style seafood restaurant. Keep your eye out on the restaurant’s music calendar as well, as they frequently put on live music events!

Fort Payne

Historically named the "Sock Capital of the World," Fort Payne has been a hub for sock manufacturing since the early 20th century, once producing half of the country’s supply. Today, the town has plenty to explore. The Little River Canyon National Preserve, for example, is perfect for rafting, hiking, and taking in canyon views. To see waterfalls that plunge over 100 feet, spend a day out at DeSoto State Park, attracting campers, hikers, and picnickers.

At the Fort Payne Depot Museum, visitors can appreciate Richardsonian Romanesque architecture, including a stone facade and arched windows, as well as an abundance of Native American artifacts on display. Looking for a souvenir to remember Fort Payne? Stop by the Big Mill Antique Mall, a two-story antique mall situated in a 134-year-old building that once hosted the Big Mill Company.

Warrior

Warrior is just a 25-minute drive from Birmingham but has a completely different feel, home to a population of just over 3,000 residents. Rickwood Caverns State Park is one of Warrior’s main attractions, a network of underground caverns with limestone rock formations that date back 260 million years. In addition to touring the caves, visitors can camp, swim, and have a picnic at the park as well.

For a more adventurous cave tour, visit Sims Cave Park, where visitors can embark on the wild cave adventure tour, climbing, crawling, and squeezing through rocks. Warrior is another great destination to grab a unique gift or souvenir, with the Warrior Antique Flea Mall offering a wide array of vintage items and collectibles.

Muscle Shoals

Muscle Shoals attracts more tourists each year, particularly for its eclectic array of festivals. A few of the events that happen throughout the year include the Alabama Renaissance Fair, the W.C. Handy Music Festival, the Trail of Tears Motorcycle Ride, and the Recall LaGrange's Distillery Raid Historical Reenactment.

Also the birthplace of Hellen Keller, visitors can attend the annual Hellen Keller festival or visit her childhood home, where they can learn about her upbringing and family, and explore the 1820 home and grounds. To learn about some of Alabama’s most famed musicians, including Nat King Cole, Lionel Richie, and Tammy Wynette, visitors must stop by the Alabama Hall of Fame, which honors and exhibits their accomplishments.

Mentone

Sitting on the rim of the 1,000-foot Lookout Mountain, Mentone is a tranquil mountain town with a laid-back energy, home to just over 300 residents. Atop the mountain, visitors can explore the area on horseback at Shady Grove Horse Ranch, accepting riders of all levels. One of the town’s most historic landmarks is the Old Union Crossing Covered Bridge. Stretching 110 feet, it was relocated from Lincoln, Alabama, in 1972 to replace a late 19th-century cable bridge.

To explore works from local artists, travelers can stop by the Mentone Arts and Cultural Center, where they can check out the art gallery and gift shop or take an art class. For lunch or dinner in a cozy environment, grab a bite at Wildflower Cafe, selected as one of the best restaurants in the county and state.

Final Thoughts

Due to their small populations and more remote locations, these towns often fly under the radar in Alabama. However, their fresh seafood, local art scenes, mountains, and caves are just a few of the attractions that set these towns apart. If you are looking to break out of your routine and discover a different side of Alabama, these towns are sure to deliver.