7 Serene Towns In Alabama For A Weekend Retreat
Alabama is the 30-largest state in America and shares its borders with Tennessee, Georgia, Florida, and the Gulf of Mexico. The state has had many nicknames, but most famously, it has been known as the ‘Yellowhammer State’, the ‘Heart of Dixie,’ and the ‘Cotton State’ for its close association with the state bird, its prime location, and its popular cotton industry. What makes the region unique, however, is the topographical diversity that encompasses long rivers, tall mountains, and luscious plains, allowing for a hearty outdoor adventure in every corner of the state. As such, there are numerous small towns in Alabama that offer an escape into the wilderness and a refuge from the daily hubbub of city life, such as the ones listed below.
Fairhope
Fairhope is a coastal town located on the eastern shoreline of Mobile Bay with multiple scenic viewpoints along the waterfront, making it a perfect place to relax and unwind. The Fairhope Municipal Pier, also known as the town’s square, is a bayfront pier with picnic areas, walking trails, a landscaped rose garden, swimming areas, and more, which is the ideal spot to start a relaxing vacation. Those looking to get some sunbathing time in should head to Fairhope Beach and Park where a walk along the shoreline or a stroll through the trees will rejuvenate and provide an opportunity to connect with nature. The Fairhope Museum of History, previously the town’s city hall and jail, displays the unique history of the local community through clay pottery exhibits and various artifact collections. Tea lovers should make a stop at the Faairhope Tea Plantation, which produces black and green tea and offers private group tours of its luscious landscape of plants, koi pond, and peacocks, and also come with a cup of house tea and discussion on the history and production of tea.
Fort Payne
Fort Payne is a small city built around the eponymous fort that was constructed in the 1830s and is now a popular tourist attraction. Since the city is located between two beautiful mountains - Lookout Mountain and Sand Mountain - there are numerous opportunities to get outdoors and enjoy the natural landscape. The DeSoto State Park gives a view of waterfalls plunging 104 feet as well as allows visitors to explore some dense woodlands, seasonal wildflowers, and breathtaking views. Here, tourists can camp, hike, picnic, swim, and much more. To enjoy more solitude in nature, head to the Little River Canyon National Preserve, which offers stunning views of the canyon and an opportunity to enjoy solo walks in the woods or raft down the river. Most importantly, don’t miss a visit to the Fort Payne Depot Museum to fully indulge in the heritage of this town’s architectural wonder and learn about its past through multiple war artifacts and memorabilia.
Opelika
Opelika is located in Lee County, Alabama, and has undergone a major renovation project that has restored architecture in its Historic Downtown and turned the streets into a shopping district with a 20th-century flair. To discover this renovation and, at the same time, dive into the town’s past, walk the Historic Opelika Trail that starts at Penn Young House, a Gothic Revival home, goes through 30 other historic structures, and finishes at the abandoned Pepperell Mill from 1844. Golfers can enjoy a 12-hole course on the RTJ Golf Trail, which is situated on the banks of Lake Saugahatchee and provides one of the most relaxing golf experiences. Step back in time by unleashing your inner child into the world of arcade games at Rock 'N Roll Pinball, or explore over 5000 artifacts at the Museum of East Alabama to uncover more about the community surrounding this vintage town.
Cullman
Cullman is the largest city in Cullman County, Alabama, and is located on top of Brindley Mountain. The town has a rich past that can be discovered in the Cullman County Museum, which pays tribute to the Cullman’s intriguing history. To learn more about the historic architecture of the world, head to Ave Maria Grotto, where the works of a Benedictine monk at St. Bernard Abbey, including the miniature reproduction of the Coliseum, the Great Wall of China, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and more are displayed in a four-acre garden park designed to take you around the world. In July, attend the three-day country music festival Rock the South, which attracts almost 45,000 music lovers each year, as well as country music stars such as Luke Bryan, Dierks Bentley, Eric Church, and more. The Cullman Strawberry Festival, now recognized as the Alabama Strawberry Festival, has been going on since 1939 and is a treat not to be missed, with its live music, artisan vendors, and, of course, all the strawberries and strawberry-based recipes that can be thought of.
Greenville
Greenville is the county seat of Butler County, Alabama, and is popular as the Camellia City because it is where the movement to change the official Alabama state flower to the camellia originated. Get on the 6-mile-long American Volkssport Association Greenville Walk that is designed to take tourists through Greenville's historic downtown, Pioneer Cemetery, chamber office, Confederate Park, and more of the town’s architectural sights. Then, visit the St. Thomas Episcopal Church which remains virtually unchanged from its magnificent structure built in 1896 and is a piece of historical art that must not be missed. Those who want to spend some more time in nature should plan to spend a day at the Sherling Lake Park, where visitors can hunt various pret, fish in numerous ponds and creeks, camp in shaded sites, walk or bike the wooded trails, or simply picnic and unwind in the natural landscape. End with sipping a cup of tea and catching a performance at the Ritz Theatre.
Magnolia Springs
This small town is located at the headwaters of the Magnolia River, from which it gets its name, and is recognized as the prettiest town in Alabama. Get your swimsuits out and head to the water’s edge to fish, surf, sunbathe, swim, or simply stroll along the pier. The Gulf State Park also has white sand beaches where tourists can relax and picnic. Apart from that, this park also offers multiple scenic biking and hiking trails, such as the Rosemary Dunes Trail, to discover the town’s natural beauty. Rent a kayak or canoe from Wild Native Tours and get out on the water or head to the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge to observe migrating songbirds and beautiful sea turtles. History buffs should tour St. Paul's Episcopal Church, which was built in 1902 from pine on its very land. It is an architectural beauty listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Tourists can also explore Victorian architecture if they choose to stay at the vintage but highly recommended Magnolia Springs Bed and Breakfast.
Mentone
Mentone is a mountain village town, situated on the top of Lookout Mountain, and invites visitors to explore its rich history, scenic views, and adventurous spirit. Book a stay at The Wilderness of Mentone to truly connect with and explore nature through a family-friendly retreat experience. Here, visitors can also participate in numerous outdoor activities, such as kayaking and rock climbing. Equestrians will be delighted to know that Shady Grove Dude Ranch offers scenic horseback rides to take tourists through the town’s popular sites. Walk over the Old Union Crossing Covered Bridge to step back in time and feel nostalgic at this historical monument that captures the essence of Mentone's past. In the summer, the DeSoto State Park is the perfect place to unwind and participate in outdoor fun, as well as visit the towering DeSoto Falls and in the winter, tourists can enjoy a host of snowsports at the Cloudmont Ski Resort. Don’t leave without getting an insight into the region's creative spirit by appreciating the work of local artists at the Mentone Arts and Cultural Center.
In conclusion, Alabama offers a diverse range of small towns, each with its own unique charm and attractions, that invite people from all walks of life to retreat into the scenic and natural beauty they have to offer. From the coastal tranquility of Fairhope and the mountainous beauty of Mentone to the historic allure of Fort Payne and the revitalized streets of Opelika, each town showcases the natural splendor and rich cultural heritage of the state. Whether you're seeking a peaceful refuge, a chance to get down and dirty in the outdoors, or a trip down the past, Alabama's small towns have something to offer every traveler.
