Are you planning to visit Alabama?
As the third most populated state, with a lot to offer, Alabama is the perfect place to go on a getaway. With beautiful scenery, fun attractions, and some of the friendliest people, it’s a heavenly place to unwind and relax.
Taking a trip to Alabama can be a lot of fun, especially if you’re not familiar with the state. In this article, learn about things to do in Alabama during your trip. This way, you can plan out your Alabama vacation and still have a blast.
So if you’re traveling to Alabama and want to make the most of your time there, read on to this article for inspiration.
1. Try Their Regional Cuisine
There are plenty of things to do on a trip to Alabama, but one of the best things to do is to try the regional cuisine. Alabama is known for its southern cooking, home to many types of food, from traditional southern dishes to more modern fare, and there are plenty of grand hotels in Alabama and restaurants to choose from.
This includes dishes like fried green tomatoes, shrimp and grits, and pecan pie. And of course, no trip to Alabama is complete without trying a Southern classic like chicken and waffles. For something a little different, head to Mobile and try the city’s signature dish, gumbo.
Alabama also has several great barbecue places. Read more here to gain more information. No matter what you’re in the mood for, you’re sure to find something to your taste in Alabama.
2. Take a Hike
Alabama has some of the best hiking trails in the country, and there is no better way to experience the state’s natural beauty. From the scenic landscapes of the Appalachian Mountains to the secluded forests of the Alabama-Coushatta Indian Reservation.
If you are looking for a challenging hike, be sure to check out the Cheaha Trail. This trail features a steep climb to the top of Cheaha Mountain, the highest point in Alabama.
For an easier hike, try the Sipsey River Trail. This trail follows the Sipsey River through the William B. Bankhead National Forest.
Before setting out, be sure to pack plenty of water and snacks, and wear proper footwear. Once you hit the trail, you can forget about the world and just enjoy the peace and serenity of nature.
3. Go Bird Watching
There are many types of birds to see in Alabama, and with a little patience, you’re sure to see some amazing specimens. To go bird watching in Alabama, first, find a pleasant spot.
Look for a place where there are trees or other vegetation for the birds to perch in and make sure there is a nearby water source. Once you have found a pleasant spot, set up your binoculars or other equipment and be patient.
Birds are often more active in the early morning or evening, so try to time your trip accordingly. Keep your eyes peeled and enjoy the beauty of the birds in Alabama!
If you’re not sure where to start, there are plenty of birdwatching tours available that will take you to the best spots.
4. Take a Scenic Drive
When you take a scenic drive through Alabama, you will want to take in all the sights. You can start by heading to Dauphin Island, which is known for its beautiful beaches.
Next, you will want to check out Mobile, which is the state’s largest city. Here you can visit the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park, as well as the Mobile Botanical Garden.
You also want to drive through Montgomery, which is the state capital. You can visit the Alabama State Capitol, as well as the First White House of the Confederacy.
Finally, you will want to end your drive in Huntsville, which is home to the U.S. Space & Rocket Center.
5. Go Whitewater Rafting
Alabama has several rivers that offer great opportunities for whitewater rafting, including the Chattahoochee, Coosa, and Tallapoosa Rivers. Rafting on these rivers can be a great way to enjoy the outdoors and get a little adrenaline rush. Whether you’re a seasoned rafter or a first-timer, there’s a river in Alabama that’s perfect for you.
It is also a great way to bond with friends or family. Before you go whitewater rafting, be sure to check out the river conditions and get proper instruction and gear.
There are many whitewater rafting companies in Alabama, so you will have no problem finding one that meets your needs.
6. Attend a Professional Rodeo
Professional rodeos are a type of competitive event that often features cowboys and cowgirls, a great way to experience the excitement and thrill of this popular sport, and there are several to choose from throughout the state. Whether you’re a fan of bull riding, saddle bronc riding, and bareback riding, as well as roping and barrel racing, or just want to enjoy some good old-fashioned rodeo entertainment, it is all here.
It’s a great way to see some of the best rodeo athletes in the world in action. And if you’re lucky, you might even glimpse a celebrity or two.
There’s also a lot of great food and entertainment at the rodeo, so you’re sure to have a good time.
7. Visit the Historic Alabama Towns
This will give you a feel for the history, and how the town has changed. You can also visit the local museums, which will give you a better understanding of the area’s culture and way of life.
There are also several historical sites that are worth visiting, such as the civil rights memorial in Montgomery. Overall, there is a lot to do and see in these historic towns and you will have a wonderful time.
Start Planning Your Trip to Alabama Today
If you’re looking for a history-rich southern state to explore on your next trip, Alabama is a brilliant choice. With a variety of things to see and do, you’ll never be bored in Alabama. From sampling the regional cuisine, hiking, bird watching, scenic driving, whitewater rafting, and attending a rodeo, to visiting historic landmarks, there’s something for everyone in Alabama.
So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Alabama today!
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Wayne Probert is a senior reporter at Zobuz, covering state and national politics, and he is a grantee with the Pulitzer Center on Crisis Reporting. Before joining Zobuz, he worked as a freelance journalist in Kentucky, having been published by dozens of outlets including NPR, the Center for Media.
