Five Amazing Day Trips: Alabama

Alabama is well known for its historic sites, coastal communities on the Gulf, and outdoor recreation. The Southern state affords visitors with a diverse cultural scene, excellent museums and attractions, and restaurants serving everything from fresh seafood to delicious southern dishes. For the sports fan, it’s hard to beat the energy on game day in Tuscaloosa, the checkered flag at Talladega, or the challenging golf courses along the Robert Trent Jones Trail. The 22 state parks attract thousands of visitors, allowing access to pristine forests, lakes, rivers, and caves. Our day trip recommendations start in Birmingham and highlight some of the state’s amazing things to do.

Here are five great day trip destinations across “The Heart of Dixie”:

Delta (Parks & Recreation)

Surrounded by the Talladega National Forest on the southern edge of the Appalachian Mountains, is Cheaha State Park. The park is located about 75 miles east of Birmingham and includes Cheaha Mountain, the highest point (2,407 ft) in Alabama. Spend the day with the family hiking and biking on the park’s network of trails. The short but challenging hiking trails showcase the natural beauty of the area, including natural waterfalls. There are five dedicated mountain biking trails, and rock climbing and rappelling are allowed with a permit. Before lunch at Vista Cliffside Restaurant, work up an appetite hiking to the Bunker Tower Observation Building at the top of Mount Cheaha. Just beyond the park gate and adjacent to the Cheaha State Park Country Store you’ll find the Walt Farr Native American Relic Museum. This is a worthwhile additional stop and a great way to end your day trip. The unique museum has an amazing collection of arrowheads, spearheads, and other Native American Treasures. On your next trip to Cheaha State Park, consider extending your stay at the historic Bald Rock Group Lodge or reserving a campsite.

Florence (Museums & Attractions)

Just across the Tennessee River and 120 miles northwest of Birmingham is the town of Florence, the location of the W.C. Handy Birthplace, Museum & Library. Today, visitors can tour the simple cabin where the Father of the Blues, W.C. Handy, was born. The museum houses an extensive collection of his personal papers, memorabilia, and artifacts. This is a great way to learn about Handy and his musical journey to Clarksdale, Mississippi, Beale Street in Memphis, Tennessee, and the first ever Blues performance in New York City’s Carnegie Hall.

Huntsville (Museums & Attractions)

Located 100 miles north or Birmingham in the city of Huntsville is one of the best science museums in the United States, the U.S. Space & Rocket Center. Expect to spend the entire day learning about space exploration through interactive exhibits, unique artifacts, simulators, and theater presentations. The permanent collection includes more than 1,500 permanent rocketry and space exploration artifacts. A few of the must-sees include presentations in the INTUITIVE® Planetarium, Space Shuttle Discovery and Enterprise Experiences, and the Saturn V Hall. While planning your visit, consider one of the add-on tickets: The Ideas Lab is a hands-on learning experience for kids. The sessions focus on exploring the universe using 3rd through 5th grade educational standards. If you have a free weekend, enroll in an Astronaut Training Experience. This two-day guided adventure includes cool challenges, astronaut training exercises, and gravity-defying simulations. This is the perfect introduction for young adults who are thinking about enrolling in Space Camp.

Lincoln (Sporting Events)

To experience the excitement of a professional racing event, Talladega Superspeedway is just 50 miles east of Birmingham. “Dega” has been hosting professional racing events since 1969, and the track has the fastest recorded speed of a NASCAR vehicle on a closed oval course. Attending a NASCAR event at Talladega means speeds in excess of 200mph and spectator attendance in excess of 175,000. Mark your calendar— the next major races are scheduled for April 25, 2021 and October 3, 2021. While planning your visit, consider the new “Talladega Garage Experience”, part of the $50 million infield renovation that provides access to additional amenities, including Big Bill’s Open-Air Social Club. There’s also the Richard Petty Driving Experience, a racing enthusiast’s chance to get on the track and behind the wheel!!

Montgomery (Museums & Attractions)

Located 90 miles south of Birmingham, the Montgomery Zoo allows families to observe and learn about wildlife from across the globe. The 40-acre property is operated by the Montgomery Area Zoological Society and is home to approximately 750 animals representing 140 species. During your visit, take note of the Keeper Talks times and locations. Each talk is given by staff members who share insights about the animals, training, and research initiatives. Another rewarding experience to participate while at the zoo are the special Animal Encounters. A few of the popular encounters take place with the elephant, giraffe, and lion exhibits. During your visit, stop in the Mann Wildlife Learning Museum, featuring a collection of taxidermy formerly owned by trophy hunter George Mann.

**Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, hours at attractions may be limited. Make sure to check the websites and add to your list for future travels!