7 Underrated Destinations In Alabama To Avoid Summer Crowds

Known for its Southern charm and hospitality, as well as being the birthplace of the Civil Rights Movement, Alabama is a popular summer destination, most notably for its sparkling beaches on the Gulf of Mexico, breathtaking forest trails, and endless culinary delights. There are a number of popular tourist destinations scattered across the state, bustling with people in the summer months, such as Birmingham, Dauphin Island, and Montgomery, the state capital. Fortunately, there are plenty of spots ideal for escaping the summer crowds, whether it is a vast area that makes it difficult to bump into others or underrated towns and destinations that boast their own delights and summer adventures. 

Rickwood Caverns State Park

A public recreation area and natural history preserve, not to mention an underrated destination, Rickwood Caverns State Park encompasses 380 acres of land. The state park features caverns and limestone formations, said to be over 260 million years old, illuminated by lanterns scattered throughout. Visitors enjoy cave tours through the 1-mile marked trail, which takes just over an hour. There are also several hiking trails throughout the park, such as Fossil Mountain Hiking Trail, where visitors can search for fossils, Picnic Loop Trail, and Moss Rock Connector Trail. Every September, the park hosts Cars at the Cave, an event where vintage cars line up for visitors to admire, and there are also food vendors, music, and prizes. Visitors can extend their stay at one of the campgrounds, enjoying all the amenities of the park and its unique beauty. 

Gulf Shores

Nestled along Alabama's Gulf Coast, the city of Gulf Shores is an underrated gem in the state, with endless opportunities for outdoor adventure and discovery. The area is best known for its 32 miles of snow-white sand beaches and glistening turquoise waters, where visitors enjoy all types of water sports and beach activities, such as swimming, boating, and sunbathing. Some other attractions include mini golf, arcades, and historical sites, like the beautiful Historic Blakeley State Park. For those who happen to visit on a rainy summer day, enjoy a trip to XIT Escape Room with friends, retro bowling at Gulf Bowl, or a movie at the CMX Pinnacle 14 Theatre. Many visitors extend their summer stay in a welcoming beach house, condo, resort, or hotel. 

Delta

Located in the 400,000-acre Talladega National Forest on the southern edge of the Appalachian Mountains, the town of Delta is an outdoor adventurist's dream. The town is home to Cheaha State Park, featuring the serene Cheaha Lake, and also boasts access to and views from Alabama's highest natural point: Cheaha Mountain. Visitors enjoy swimming, fishing, and hiking, as well as the stunning views of natural landmarks, such as the rushing Cheaha Falls. For an extended stay, check out Cheaha State Park campgrounds, cabins, resorts, chalets, and even glamping tents. Just under a half hour away is the small town of Heflin, where travelers indulge in wine tasting at the High Country Cellars Winery, including onsite fermented, custom-made wines. 

Meaher State Park

Located on Big Island, an island situated just north of Mobile Bay and within the city of Spanish Fort, is Meaher State Park, covering 1,327 acres along the shoreline of Ducker Bay. The scenic and remote location is ideal for either day-use or camping excursions, with picnicking spots, boating areas, and a fishing pier. A self-guided walk on the picturesque boardwalk is a great way to spend a day and also enjoy views of the Mobile-Tensaw Delta, which consists of around 20,323 acres of water. Be sure to pack binoculars or a camera for birding, as there are lots of fluttering creatures in the area, as well as a plethora of gorgeous flora and fauna. Whether camping or staying in a nearby hotel is best, the nearby shops and dining options of the town of Mobile offer plenty of delight, such as Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Royal Street Market, and Pat's Deli & Yogurt.

Chewacla State Park

Situated in the small town of Auburn in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains is Chewacla State Park, a vast 696-acre park, home to a 26-acre lake, modern campgrounds, and plenty of hiking and mountain biking trails. The location is a delight for anglers, with bream, bass, crappie, and catfish swimming about in the sparkling waters. Speaking of swimming, plenty of visitors enjoy a dip in the lake, as well as the park's two creeks. For those interested in hiking, whether it be a day trip or a week-long camping vacation, there are several trails from which to choose. Sweet Shrub Trail is a shorter option, ideal for beginners, while there are lots of challenging mountain biking trails built by the Central Alabama Mountain Pedalers. The park has six stone cottages available for rent, with beautiful hardwood floors, stone fireplaces, kitchens, bathrooms, and TVs, though camping is also an option for a more rustic stay. 

Fairhope

Fairhope is a small coastal town in Alabama with one of the best main streets, situated on the eastern bank of Mobile Bay. Indulge in a picnic, afternoon stroll, or bask in the sun at Weeks Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve and the Fairhope Municipal Pier Park. For history lovers, pay a visit to the Fairhope Museum of History, and learn all about the town's charming past. The Fairhope Pier is an excellent location to catch a picturesque sunset (perfect for an unforgettable photo op), with breathtaking shades of pink, orange, and red painting the blue sky. For a longer getaway in the quaint town, visit Serenity on the Bay, Driftwood RV Park, or Key West Inn, and enjoy a private escape within walking distance to all the town's best amenities. 

Phil Campbell

Named after a railroad worker from the 1800s, Phil Campbell is a tiny town with a population sitting around only 1,000. Dismals Canyon is a unique spot to visit, home to quaint little cabins, remote campsites, and plenty of opportunities for hiking, canoeing, visiting waterfalls, and more. It is a national natural landmark, where just past twilight, visitors can spot Dismalites, which are small bioluminescent creatures that light up the canyon – in other words, glow worms! Enjoy a guided night tour, either on a romantic getaway, solo trip, or adventure with friends, to marvel at the little creatures and beauty of the canyon. A hike along the 1.5-mile hiking trail is a great way to spend an afternoon looking up at the towering moss-covered boulders, rushing waterfalls, and lush green flora and fauna. 

Enjoy A Summer Trip To Alabama!

While Alabama's major cities may draw you in, there is a time and place for the excitement of city life or the hustle and bustle of popular tourist destinations. For a more laid-back adventure or quiet getaway nestled in the warmth of Alabama's heart, consider these charming yet underrated destinations to avoid the summer crowds. Wander the welcoming streets of Fairhope or marvel at the sparkling blue waters of Ichetucknee Springs State Park – whatever it may be, adventure awaits in Alabama.