20 Best Attractions and Things to do in Alabama

Alabama is a state with an extremely rich history and cultural heritage. Visiting Montgomery and Birmingham you will find rich art collections, the Civil Rights Institute, the National Memorial for Peace and Justice, the Frank Lloyd Wright Rosenbaum House Museum, and many other places that have left an important mark on the history of the United States.

Lovers of natural beauty will not be disappointed if they visit the Gulf of Mexico with its fabulous nature reserves and sandy beaches. If you want to ignite your child in science, take him to McWane Science Center or Huntsville’s U.S. Space and Rocket Center, where you can get acquainted with the latest high technologies firsthand.

Alabama attractions are diverse and it is hardly possible to cover everything in one list, but here are 20 of the most popular with tourists.

1. Gulf State Park

Located in Gulf Shores, Gulf State Park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers. The park stretches along the shores of the Gulf of Mexico, offering more than two miles of pristine sandy beaches. Whether you’re interested in swimming, sunbathing, or simply taking a leisurely stroll along the shore, Gulf State Park has it all.

In addition to its beautiful beaches, the park boasts a range of recreational facilities and activities. The Nature Center provides free classes and guided nature walks, allowing visitors to learn about the local flora and fauna. The park also offers amenities such as volleyball courts, tennis courts, horseshoe pits, and a swimming pool with a splash pad.

For those seeking adventure, Gulf State Park offers bicycle, kayak, and paddleboard rentals, as well as guided Segway tours. The park features 25 miles of paved walking trails, perfect for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Golfers can enjoy a round of golf at the championship golf course, while campers can take advantage of the nearly 500 full-hookup RV sites.

💻 Website	https://www.alapark.com/parks/gulf-state-park
📬 Address	20115 State Park Rd, Gulf Shores, AL 36542, United States
📍 Map	Open in Google Maps

2. U.S. Space & Rocket Center

For space enthusiasts of all ages, the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville is a must-visit attraction. This world-renowned center offers a fascinating journey through the history of space exploration, featuring interactive exhibits, presentations, and one of the largest collections of spacecraft on display.

As a Smithsonian affiliate, the U.S. Space and Rocket Center provides visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the space race, NASA’s achievements, and the International Space Station. Explore the exhibits to learn about the groundbreaking missions and technological advancements that have shaped our understanding of the universe.

One of the highlights of a visit to the center is the opportunity to see Rocket Park, where you can marvel at the impressive collection of rockets and missiles. The center also offers various simulators that allow visitors to experience the thrill of space travel firsthand. From authentic replicas of the Space Shuttle to immersive multimedia presentations, the U.S. Space and Rocket Center offers an unforgettable experience.

💻 Website	http://rocketcenter.com/
📬 Address	1 Tranquility Base, Huntsville, AL 35805, United States
📍 Map	Open in Google Maps

3. Birmingham Civil Rights Institute and the Civil Rights Historic District

Located in Birmingham, the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute provides a comprehensive look into the events of the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s. The institute features permanent and temporary exhibits that explore various aspects of the movement, including violent conflicts and segregation. It serves as a powerful reminder of the struggles and sacrifices made by African Americans during this pivotal time in history.

The institute is part of Birmingham’s Civil Rights Historic District, which encompasses a six-block area. Other landmarks in the district include Kelly Ingram Park, the Fourth Avenue Business District, and Carver Theater. One of the district’s most significant sites is the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church, where a tragic bombing orchestrated by the Klu Klux Klan took place in 1963, claiming the lives of four young girls. This event played a crucial role in galvanizing support for the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

💻 Tours	Check here
📬 Address	520 16th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203, United States
📍 Map	Open in Google Maps

4. Civil Rights Memorials of Montgomery

Montgomery, the capital of Alabama, holds significant historical importance in the Civil Rights Movement. The city is home to several notable civil rights memorials and landmarks that commemorate the struggle for equality.

The Civil Rights Memorial, located in downtown Montgomery, features a striking black granite sculpture honoring those who lost their lives during the Civil Rights Movement. Adjacent to the memorial is the Civil Rights Memorial Center, which offers educational displays and exhibits, including the Wall of Tolerance.

Another notable memorial in Montgomery is the National Memorial for Peace and Justice. Situated on a six-acre site, this memorial pays tribute to the African Americans who were victims of racial injustice and lynching. It features powerful artwork, sculptures, and monuments that honor key figures in the Civil Rights movement, as well as a field of 800 monuments representing counties where lynchings occurred.

📬 Address	400 Washington Ave, Montgomery, AL 36104, United States
📍 Map	Open in Google Maps

5. USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park

Situated in Mobile, the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park is a must-visit for history buffs and military enthusiasts. The park is home to the USS Alabama, a World War II battleship that played a significant role in the Pacific theater. Visitors can explore various parts of the ship, including the captain’s cabin, bridge, mess hall, and turrets, gaining insight into the daily lives of the sailors who served on board.

In addition to the battleship, the park also houses the USS Drum, a World War II submarine that provides a fascinating glimpse into underwater warfare. The park features a collection of military aircraft, including a B-52 bomber and an A-12 Black Bird spy plane, as well as tanks and weapons from different conflicts. It serves as a tribute to the brave men and women who have served in the armed forces.

💻 Website	www.ussalabama.com
📬 Address	2703 Battleship Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36603, United States
📍 Map	Open in Google Maps

6. Montgomery Civil Rights Landmarks

In addition to its civil rights memorials, Montgomery is home to several important landmarks that played significant roles in the Civil Rights Movement. These sites provide valuable insights into the struggles and triumphs of the movement.

One such landmark is the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church, where Martin Luther King Jr. served as a pastor and helped organize civil rights activities. Today, the church is open to the public as the Dexter Parsonage Museum, showcasing the living quarters of King and his family during their time in Montgomery.

The Rosa Parks Library and Museum is another significant site in Montgomery. Located near the spot where Rosa Parks was arrested for refusing to give up her seat on a bus, the museum tells the story of the Montgomery Bus Boycott that followed her act of defiance. It houses artifacts such as Parks’ original fingerprints, court documents, and a Montgomery City Bus.

The Freedom Rides Museum, situated in the former Montgomery Greyhound station, commemorates the brave Freedom Riders who faced violence and discrimination as they traveled through the South to protest segregation. The museum provides an immersive experience that sheds light on this important chapter in the Civil Rights Movement.

💻 Website	civilrightstrail.com
📬 Address	400 Washington Ave, Montgomery, AL 36104, United States
📍 Map	Open in Google Maps

7. Cheaha State Park

One of Alabama’s best attractions and oldest park in the state is Cheaha State Park. The park covers nearly 2,400 acres and is an ideal place for all kinds of outdoor activities.

Here is the highest peak in Alabama – Cheaha Mountain, as well as a number of impressive waterfalls. Some of the hiking trails will take you to Talladega National Forest for a soothing and relaxing walk.

💻 Website	www.alapark.com/cheaha-state-park
📬 Address	19644 AL-281, Delta, AL 36258, United States
📍 Map	Open in Google Maps

8. Montgomery Museum of Fine Art

At the Montgomery Museum, you will find collections of wood carvings, engravings, drawings, and watercolors by some of the most prominent representatives of American art, such as John Marin and Winslow Homer.

Some of the smaller exhibits feature African art, a porcelain decorative arts gallery, and interesting glassworks. The museum offers educational programs for children and adults, and sometimes hosts temporary exhibitions from around the world.

💻 Website	mmfa.org
📬 Address	1 Museum Dr, Montgomery, AL 36117, United States
📍 Map	Open in Google Maps

9. McWane Science Center

Located in Birmingham, the McWane Science Center is a family-friendly attraction that combines education and entertainment. The center features a wide range of exhibits and interactive experiences designed to inspire curiosity and foster a love for science.

One of the highlights of the McWane Science Center is its aquarium, which showcases a variety of ocean and freshwater species, including those native to Alabama. Visitors can learn about marine life, water conservation, and the importance of protecting our oceans. The aquarium also explores water-related sciences like erosion and the water cycle.

In addition to the aquarium, the center offers exhibits that cover a wide range of topics, from art and technology to natural sciences. Visitors can participate in hands-on experiments, explore the ways art and science intersect, and even catch a film at the IMAX theater.

💻 Website	www.mcwane.org
📬 Address	200 19th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203, United States
📍 Map	Open in Google Maps

10. Frank Lloyd Wright Rosenbaum House Museum

Architecture enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Frank Lloyd Wright Rosenbaum House Museum in Florence. This iconic house, designed by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright in 1939, is the only structure in Alabama designed by Wright himself.

The Rosenbaum House is a masterpiece of Usonian design, featuring a flat, multi-level roof, board, and batten walls, and harmonious integration with the natural surroundings. The museum showcases the original furniture and offers insights into Wright’s design philosophy.

Address: 601 Riverview Drive, Florence, Alabama Official site: http://wrightinalabama.com/

11. Mobile Bay

Situated along the Gulf of Mexico, Mobile Bay offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical charm. The area is known for its stunning beaches, historic sites, and diverse ecosystems.

One of the must-see destinations in Mobile Bay is Dauphin Island, a barrier island that boasts beautiful beaches and rich history. Visitors can explore Fort Gaines, a historic fort that played a crucial role in the Battle of Mobile Bay during the Civil War. The island is also home to an Audubon bird sanctuary and a freshwater lake, offering opportunities for birdwatching and outdoor recreation.

Another popular spot along Mobile Bay is the town of Fairhope, known for its picturesque scenery and vibrant arts community. Fairhope Pier is a favorite spot for fishing and enjoying panoramic views of the bay. The town also offers a range of outdoor activities, including golf, tennis, and bicycling.

For nature enthusiasts, the Weeks Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve provides an opportunity to explore diverse habitats through elevated boardwalks and trails. Visitors can learn about the unique ecosystem of the estuary and observe a variety of wildlife.

12. W.C. Handy Home and Museum

Florence is also home to the W.C. Handy Home and Museum, dedicated to the life and legacy of W.C. Handy, known as the “father of the blues.” The museum is located in the log cabin where Handy was born and lived during his early years.

Visitors can explore the museum’s exhibits, which showcase original sheet music, personal papers, and artifacts related to Handy’s life and career. The museum also houses musical instruments, including Handy’s trumpet and piano, providing a glimpse into the creative process behind his iconic blues compositions.

13. University of Alabama

The University of Tuscaloosa, Alabama opened in 1827 and today has an art gallery, two museums, and a pre-Civil War classroom. The Gorgas House, now a museum, is the first building on campus and one of the few survivors of the Civil War fire. Today it houses collections of antiques and Gorgas family memorabilia.

Exhibitions at the Alabama Museum of Natural History include dinosaur-era exhibits and displays, the Coal Age, and Ice Age, including the Hodges Meteorite.

At the Paul W. Bryant Museum, you will learn a lot about the history of football at the University of Alabama, as well as its other sports and athletes.

14. National Voting Rights Museum and Institute

The museum was created to perpetuate the history of human rights activists, especially women and African Americans. Here you will find figures of a number of prominent people in this regard – Martin Luther King, Jr., Reverend Jesse Jackson, Barack Obama.

Separate exhibitions are dedicated to important moments and women who actively participated in the struggle for human rights. The very location of the museum is significant – in 1965 there was an attack on protesters, which led to many victims.

15. Birmingham Museum of Art

Perhaps the most popular among the Alabama attractions for art lovers is The Birmingham Museum of Art, which houses a huge collection of local and world folklore and decorative exhibits.

In the African collection you will find types of figures, motifs, and ritual headdresses, the Asian part preserves some of the most ancient artifacts of the museum, and the largest hall – the European, preserves works by artists such as Pissarro and van Rijn.

The museum often hosts temporary collections on various topics, so be sure to check in advance what the theme of the collections will be during your vacation.

16. Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum

If you want to see one of the richest collections of over 1,400 exhibits of vintage, rare and modern motorcycles, visit The Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum. The exhibits are constantly changing, so if you visit the museum a second time you will not be disappointed.

The museum was created by car racer George Barber, so it is not surprising that it houses an exhibition of some rare cars. Around the museum, you will find a 930-acre park and a 2.38-mile race track.

17. Birmingham Zoo

Birmingham Zoo is one of the ideal places to visit in Alabama if you are traveling with children. Located on 122 acres, it is home to over 200 species, some of which are endangered.

The zoo offers a variety of exhibits and train tour options. You will have the opportunity to see lions, jaguars, lemurs, North American black bear, sea lions. For maximum fun, visit bird photography training or enroll your child in Summer ZooFari Camps.

18. Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail

The Robert Trent Jones Golf offers a variety of courses and locations in the state for avid golfers, whether beginners or professionals. You can enroll in one of the golf courses and play in more than 400 holes.

One of the most popular locations is Ross Bridge, and visitors can relax in some of the nearby luxury resorts.

19. Point Mallard Park

The park has a huge area and offers a wide range of entertainment for children and adults. The most visited part is the water park, which has a wave pool (the first in America), sandy beach, many slides, tennis courts (10 in number).

If you want to stay here you can stay at the campsite next to the park and enjoy long walks on one of the hiking trails around.

20. Huntsville Botanical Garden

Huntsville Botanical Gardens offer a wide variety of types and different rooms for young and old. Visit the largest open-air butterfly house in the United States, or take a walk among the youngest of the specially designed children’s evils and gardens that will arouse their curiosity about nature.

There is also the Biblical Garden, which is dedicated to plants mentioned in the Bible, the Dogwood trail, the Vegetable garden, and a miniature village created by local Boy Scouts.

Conclusion

Alabama is a state with a very rich culture and history, especially when it comes to the fight for human rights. It is rich in museums and art galleries, but in no case will you miss luxury resorts, sandy beaches, and sports venues.

Many of the historic buildings have been preserved or restored to their original appearance to give you a touch of reality. You can easily organize your vacation here as a mixture of educational activities and recreational entertainment.