7 of the Most Hospitable Small Towns in Alabama
With a population of just over 5 million, the “Cotton State” of Alabama is the 24th largest in America. A cultural and economic hub of the famed American South, Alabama is full of fascinating history, unique cultural charm, and hot sun, which make it one of the most special places in the country to discover. While cities like Birmingham and Montgomery still attract much attention, a number of smaller and equally inviting towns can be found in this Land of Dixie. For a deeper dive into what makes Alabama such a unique State, a journey through these small towns will definitely leave any traveler with a set of extraordinary memories. Come for the sun and stay for the hospitality; small-town Alabama is ready to greet you!
Magnolia Springs
Situated right at the very southern tip of the State, the humble town of Magnolia Springs is home to a modest population of just over 800 permanent residents. Yet this quiet and charming place is indeed a great place to enjoy the outdoors and the raw beauty of nature in a most welcoming setting. Located at the headwaters of the Magnolia River, guests to town can enjoy loads of nice opportunities to go swimming, sailing, cycling, or even just casually strolling along the calm water’s edge. In addition, Magnolia Springs is also a most inviting historic center, and visitors can get a glimpse of Alabama’s past through an exploration of several landmarks. In the historic district, see such buildings as St. Paul’s Episcopal Church (1901) and the Sunnyside Hotel (1897), amongst others that are also listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Indeed, with its alluring natural beauty and insightful glimpse into the America of yesterday, visiting Magnolia Springs is a most welcome place for all ages to stop by.
Tuscumbia
A part of a geographic area known as The Shoals in northwestern Alabama, the town of Tuscumbia is one of the State’s oldest colonial settlements. Established in 1815, this seat of Colbert County is now home to just over 9,000 inhabitants and remains one of the most naturally beautiful and charming places to explore in all of the “Cotton State”. Tour the Tuscumbia Historic District and its assortment of buildings that range from the 1820s to the 1930s, for a true time travel like experience! Meanwhile the town is also known as the birthplace of celebrated blind deaf activist Helen Keller who was born at the Ivy Green House in 1880. Today this birthplace museum continues to be a most fascinating and insightful look into one of America’s most beloved icons for disability rights. From there why not head on over to the Alabama Music Hall of Fame, where the best of Alabaman musicians are honored. Finally, visiting Tuscumbia would not be complete without a stopover at the nearby Cane Creek Canyon Nature Preserve. Here awesome opportunities for biking, hiking, and wildlife watching make it a most exquisite outdoors experience.
Gulf Shores
The southernmost town in Alabama, Gulf Shores is beautifully situated on the Gulf of Mexico where a modest population of just over 15,000 reside. A wonderful place to enjoy the hot sun, awesome ocean views, and splendid and inviting beaches, Gulf Shores has rightfully been a popular tourist destination for decades. And with plenty of fun opportunities to go sailing, swimming, fishing, and of course sunbathing, this is one Alabama town that definitely should not be overlooked. Amongst some of the other events to enjoy in town include the Hangout Music Festival in May, where a variety of great music acts perform on a stage right on the sandy beaches! Meanwhile one can also enjoy the tranquility of an afternoon of golf at any of Gulf Shores’ numerous courses. And do not forget about the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, a veritable delight for the entire family!
Mountain Brook
A suburb of Birmingham (Alabama’s most populous city), the lovely town of Mountain Brook is the home to just over 22,000 residents. Formally established in the 1920s, guests to this welcoming community can enjoy beautiful views of nature in the vicinity of all the major amenities of modern life. Spend an afternoon at the charming Shades Creek, including nice photo opportunities at the rustic Old Mill, or take a drive for some stunning panoramic views of the Shades and Red Mountain Ridges. Meanwhile why not enjoy some of the finest in Southern cooking at places like the Daniel George Restaurant, where a hearty meal and warm memories are sure to be made. And with the major centre of Birmingham close by, one can comfortably stop in Mountain Brook and get the best of a quieter ambience while in the shadow of a bigger city.
Fairhope
Nearly 22,500 residents call the beautiful town of Fairhope home, that can trace its modern history to the 1890s. Located in the Gulf of Mexico on the eastern shores of Mobile Bay, Fairhope is a most charming and relaxing community where the beauty of Alabama’s nature shines. Known for its humid and subtropical climate, guests can enjoy destinations like the Weeks Bay Nature Preserve and the Rock Creek Club. At the former splendid and stunning views of Mobile Bay can be appreciated, while a scenic game of golf is always a fun outing at the latter. Meanwhile for those looking to spend some indoors and away from the frequently hot weather, Fairhope has options for you. Spend an afternoon at the Fairhope Museum of History or the Eastern Shore Art Center, where regional artists and local histories are highlighted in an informative and interactive fashion.
Eufaula
The largest centre in Barbour County, the town of Eufaula is scenically situated near the Chattahoochee River. Established in the mid 19th century and named for a Native American people, today just under 13,000 residents call this historic and welcoming place home. History lovers can certainly appreciate the town’s historic ambience, and indeed several buildings and landmarks here are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. These include the Shorter Mansion (1884), Fendall Hall (1860), and the First Baptist Church (1834) amongst several others to be found in town’s various historic districts. But outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy Eufaula, and with its very hot summers and warm winters there is never really a poor time to be in nature here. Spend time at the aforementioned Chattahoochee River or the nearby Lake Eufaula. Meanwhile a day trip to the Eufaula National Wildlife Refuge is a great outing for the entire family. Enjoy fun opportunities for camping and fishing, while the chance to see wildlife like bald eagles and alligators in a natural habitat make it truly one of the most unique things to do in the State.
Fort Payne
Fort Payne serves as the seat of DeKalb County in the northeast corner of Alabama and can trace its modern history to the 1830s. Today with a population of just under 15,000, visitors can still explore a number of historic landmarks listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and that continue to serve as type of time portal to Alabama’s past. Visit such sites like the Davis Hosiery Mill (1884), the Fort Payne Opera House (1889), the Depot Museum (1891), and of course the eponymous Fort Payne. At the Fort, all ages can get a feeling of what life in the in mid 1800s was like while also being reminded of the painful legacy of the internment and displacement of the Cherokee as part of the larger Trail of Tears. Meanwhile with its mild winters and hot summers, enjoying the outdoors is another fine thing to do in this town and guests can visit a number of great outdoor wonders. These include the DeSoto State Park, the marvellous geologic wonder that is Manitou Cave, and the Little Canyon National Preserve and its pretty waterfalls.
The welcoming and charming small towns of Alabama serve as a reminder of the great cultural, historical, and natural diversity to be found in the “Cotton State”. Indeed this important centre of the American South has much to offer any potential visitors, and outside of its major cities, these smaller hospitable towns are awesome ways to get to know the State even better. From the historic centre of Tuscumbia to the natural charm of Eufaula, these and other wonderful Alabama towns positively demonstrate what Southern charm is all about. So when deciding to visit the southern United States, do not forget about Alabama and add these vibrant and hospitable towns to your list of truly cannot miss destinations for the entire family to enjoy!
