When I first planned my trip to Alabama, I honestly didn’t know what to expect. I had heard bits and pieces — about the beaches, the space center, and maybe some good southern food — but I had never really taken the time to explore what this state had to offer. After spending time here, I can say without a doubt that Alabama surprised me in the best way.
From peaceful mountains to sunny beaches, from rich history to fun outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone in Alabama. I found myself walking through powerful Civil Rights landmarks one day, and hiking through quiet forests the next. The mix of culture, nature, and warm, friendly people made my trip feel both exciting and relaxing.
In this guide, I’ll share some of the best things to do in Alabama based on my own experience. Whether you’re planning a vacation or just curious about this southern gem, I hope my journey helps you discover what makes this state so special.
Visit the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville
One of the first places I visited in Alabama was the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville — and it completely blew me away. I’ve always been a little curious about space, but I never expected to see real rockets and learn so much in one place.
The museum is packed with space artifacts, interactive exhibits, and even a full-size Saturn V rocket. Walking underneath it made me feel tiny! I also got to try a few hands-on activities, like the space shuttle simulator, which gave me a small taste of what astronauts go through.
One thing that really stood out to me was how fun and educational the center is — not just for kids, but for adults too. I found myself reading every sign and watching every video because it was all so interesting. If you’re visiting Alabama and wondering what to do, especially with family, this spot should be high on your list.
The U.S. Space & Rocket Center made me feel inspired and amazed, and it reminded me just how far human curiosity and science can take us.
Explore Gulf Shores and Orange Beach
After a few days of exploring cities and museums, I was ready for some sunshine — and Gulf Shores and Orange Beach were exactly what I needed. I had no idea Alabama had such beautiful beaches! The white sand, clear water, and laid-back atmosphere made it feel like a tropical escape.
I spent my mornings walking along the beach, listening to the waves and watching the sunrise. In the afternoons, I tried out some water activities like paddleboarding and dolphin cruises. There’s also plenty to do on land — I enjoyed some fresh seafood at beachside restaurants and explored local shops and boardwalks.
One of the highlights was visiting Gulf State Park, which has scenic trails and a long fishing pier. I rented a bike and rode through the park, surrounded by nature and quiet views. It was the perfect break from the busyness of daily life.
If you’re looking for fun things to do in Alabama that involve sun, sand, and sea, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are a must. Whether you want adventure or just a peaceful place to relax, this part of the state really delivers.
Walk Through History in Montgomery
Visiting Montgomery, the capital of Alabama, was one of the most powerful parts of my trip. The city is full of deep history, especially when it comes to the Civil Rights Movement. Walking through the streets where important events took place made me feel connected to the past in a way I hadn’t before.
One of my first stops was the Legacy Museum and the National Memorial for Peace and Justice. These places were emotional but important. They helped me understand the pain, strength, and courage of people who fought for equality. I also visited the Rosa Parks Museum, which tells the story of her brave stand and how it sparked real change.
Another must-see was the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once preached. Standing inside that church gave me chills. It felt like I was stepping into a moment in time that helped shape our country.
If you’re looking for things to do in Alabama that are meaningful and educational, I highly recommend spending time in Montgomery. It’s not just about learning history — it’s about feeling it, and carrying that understanding with you long after you leave.
Discover Birmingham’s Art and Food Scene
When I arrived in Birmingham, I was excited to see a different side of Alabama — and the city did not disappoint. Birmingham has a great mix of creativity, culture, and amazing food. It quickly became one of my favorite stops on the trip.
I started with the Birmingham Museum of Art, which was free to enter and filled with all kinds of artwork — from modern pieces to ancient ones. I also walked through some of the city’s public art areas and saw colorful murals painted on buildings and in parks. The city has a fresh, artistic vibe that really surprised me.
But what I loved the most was the food. From barbecue joints to trendy cafes, Birmingham is full of flavor. I tried local favorites like pulled pork, fried green tomatoes, and sweet tea that tasted better than any I’d had before. The people in the restaurants were always friendly and ready to recommend something delicious.
In the evenings, I found live music spots where locals were playing everything from jazz to blues. It made the whole city feel alive.
If you enjoy art, music, and great food, Birmingham is one of the top places to visit in Alabama. It gave me a fun, creative break during my trip — and some seriously good meals I won’t forget.
Hike in Cheaha State Park
After spending time in Alabama’s cities and along the coast, I was ready for some fresh mountain air — and Cheaha State Park gave me exactly that. It’s home to Cheaha Mountain, the highest point in Alabama, and the views from up there are simply amazing.
I took one of the hiking trails that led up to an overlook, and it felt like I had stepped into another world. The trees were thick and green, the air was crisp, and I could hear birds all around. When I reached the top, I stood for a while just taking in the view of rolling hills and forests that seemed to stretch on forever.
The park has trails for all levels, so whether you’re up for a long hike or just want a short walk, there’s something for you. I also saw people camping, having picnics, and even mountain biking. It’s a peaceful place, perfect for slowing down and connecting with nature.
If you love the outdoors and are wondering what to do in Alabama for adventure or quiet time, Cheaha State Park is a must-visit. It gave me a chance to reset and really appreciate Alabama’s natural beauty.
Visit Mobile and Learn About Mardi Gras
Before my trip, I always thought Mardi Gras was all about New Orleans — but then I visited Mobile, Alabama, and learned that Mardi Gras actually started there! That was a big surprise to me, and it made my visit even more exciting.
Mobile has a unique mix of history, culture, and celebration. I explored the Mobile Carnival Museum, which was one of the most fun museums I’ve ever been to. It’s full of colorful costumes, parade floats, and stories about how the tradition began in this very city. I had no idea how much work and passion went into planning each Mardi Gras season.
Even though I didn’t visit during Mardi Gras itself, I still got to feel the festive spirit around town. There were decorations, music, and locals happy to talk about their favorite parade memories. The city also has beautiful old buildings, cozy streets, and great seafood — I had some of the best shrimp of my life here.
If you’re looking for fun and unique things to do in Alabama, Mobile is full of surprises. It taught me something new, gave me a few laughs, and showed me a side of Alabama that’s full of joy and celebration.
Tour the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park
While I was in Mobile, I also made time to visit the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park — and it turned out to be one of the coolest stops on my trip. If you’re into history, military stuff, or just enjoy exploring big, impressive machines, this place is a must.
Walking up to the USS Alabama, I was amazed by its size. It’s a real World War II battleship, and you can actually go inside and walk through different parts of the ship. I explored the tight sleeping quarters, the giant guns, and even the engine room. It gave me a whole new appreciation for the people who served on ships like this.
The park also has other military displays, including a submarine called the USS Drum, tanks, and aircraft. Everything is well-kept and packed with stories. I spent a few hours here and still didn’t see it all — there’s that much to look at and learn.
For anyone looking for unique things to do in Alabama, especially with kids or history lovers, this park offers a hands-on, unforgettable experience. It made history come alive in a way I didn’t expect.
Explore Little River Canyon National Preserve
One of the most peaceful and scenic places I visited in Alabama was Little River Canyon National Preserve. Tucked away in the northeastern part of the state, this natural wonder feels like a hidden gem. I wasn’t expecting much at first — but as soon as I saw the canyon, I was blown away.
The Little River runs along the top of Lookout Mountain and has carved out a beautiful, deep canyon over time. There are cliffs, waterfalls, and clear swimming holes, all surrounded by forests. I spent my day hiking along the rim, stopping at scenic overlooks that gave me amazing views of the canyon below.
I also checked out Little River Falls, which is an easy walk from the parking area and totally worth it. The sound of the rushing water and the fresh mountain air made me feel calm and refreshed. There are also spots for picnicking, swimming, and even kayaking if you’re up for it.
If you enjoy nature and want to experience the outdoors in Alabama, this preserve is perfect. It’s one of those places where you can truly unplug and enjoy the beauty around you. Little River Canyon reminded me just how wild and wonderful Alabama can be.
Stop by Small Towns Like Fairhope or Eufaula
One of the best surprises during my trip through Alabama was discovering its charming small towns. Big cities are great, but sometimes, slowing down and exploring a quiet town can show you the real heart of a place. Two towns I absolutely loved were Fairhope and Eufaula.
Fairhope sits along the coast of Mobile Bay, and it instantly felt warm and welcoming. The downtown area is filled with little shops, art galleries, and cafes. I grabbed a coffee and walked along the bayfront pier, where the view of the water was peaceful and calming. The whole town has a cozy, artistic vibe that makes you want to stay awhile.
Eufaula, on the other hand, is known for its beautiful old homes and Southern charm. I drove down Eufaula Avenue, which is lined with massive antebellum mansions and tall trees. It felt like stepping back in time. I also visited Lake Eufaula, which is perfect for fishing, boating, or just enjoying the quiet water views.
If you’re looking for relaxing things to do in Alabama away from the crowds, these small towns are perfect. They gave me time to slow down, meet friendly locals, and enjoy Alabama’s beauty in a different way.
Enjoy Local Southern Food and Music
No trip to Alabama would be complete without diving into its Southern food and music scene. From the first bite to the last note, I felt like I was experiencing the soul of the state.
I started with the food — and wow, it did not disappoint. I had everything from buttermilk biscuits and fried chicken to shrimp and grits and banana pudding. Every meal felt like it was made with love. One of my favorite dishes was barbecue ribs from a small roadside joint — tender, smoky, and dripping with flavor. I also loved trying sweet tea everywhere I went; it’s truly a Southern classic.
What made the meals even better was the music. Whether I was in a restaurant, a small bar, or walking around town, I heard live music that made me want to stop and listen. Alabama is known for its roots in blues, country, and gospel, and you can still feel that history in today’s music scene.
In some places, I saw local bands playing outdoors or in cozy venues where people danced and clapped along. The music felt warm and real, just like the people I met along the way.
If you’re looking for authentic things to do in Alabama, make time to enjoy the food and music. It’s where the heart of Alabama truly shines — through its flavors and its rhythm.
Conclusion
My trip through Alabama was full of surprises, beauty, and unforgettable moments. From the peaceful mountains and white-sand beaches to the powerful stories of history and the joy of live music, Alabama offered something special at every stop.
Whether I was standing on top of Cheaha Mountain, walking through the streets of Montgomery, or enjoying fresh seafood on the coast, I felt connected to the land and the people. The small towns, the Southern cooking, the rich culture, and the warm hospitality made me feel right at home.
If you’re planning a trip and wondering what to do in Alabama, I can honestly say there’s no shortage of things to explore. Whether you’re into nature, history, art, food, or just relaxing in a beautiful place, Alabama has it all.
This journey gave me more than just great photos — it gave me memories and a deeper appreciation for a state I hadn’t known much about before. I hope you get the chance to experience it for yourself. Alabama truly has something for everyone.
