If you’re up for adventure and want to experience southern hospitality, Alabama is where it’s at!
This state is a bundle of friendly folks, a vibrant community, beautiful sceneries, and exciting culture.
You can never find a dull moment from the lively city of Birmingham to the laid-back vibe of Mobile.
Every city celebrates art, cuisine, and history in its unique way, which you can experience when you visit Alabama.
So, if you plan to come over, prepare your Alabama bucket list to find the best spots in the state.
Little River Canyon National Preserve
Little River Canyon National Preserve is a true gem in the Lookout Mountain in northeast Alabama.
The place covers 15,000 acres of a stunning landscape where you can enjoy recreational activities like camping and hiking.
It has a breathtaking view of forested uplands, sandstone cliffs, pools, and waterfalls, which is truly a treat.
The Little River flows atop the mountain with its pristine waters, making it a unique waterway in the state.
It is also a protected wilderness area home to rare plants and animal species, making it ideal for conservationists and enthusiasts.
Visit: 4322 Little River Trail #100, Fort Payne, AL 35967
Call: 256-845-9605
Gulf Shores Public Beach
The perfect coastal retreat for a relaxing day in the sun is here at Gulf Shores Public Beach.
Aside from swimming in the clear waters of Gulf Shores, you can play volleyball, sunbathe, and build castles.
There are also nearby restaurants and bars that you can hang out at if you want to experience the ultimate beach experience.
But the best thing about the public beach is its accessibility, especially if you or your loved ones ride a wheelchair.
The city provided four beach mats along the beach at various points so everyone could appreciate the view.
Visit: 101 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Call: 251-968-2040
USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park
USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park in Mobile, Alabama, is a must-visit for history buffs because of its unique displays.
This military history park and museum is home to notable aircraft and ships like the South Dakota-class battleship.
The USS Alabama played a huge role in World War II by serving the North Atlantic and South Pacific, earning nine Battle Stars.
Forward-thinking Mobilians and Alabamians saw a bright future for the warship instead of scrapping it like other warships.
The ship opened to the public as a memorial park and became the most recognizable symbol of Mobile and Alabama.
Visit: 2703 Battleship Parkway, Mobile, AL 36602
Call: 251-432-0261 (for tickets)
U.S. Space & Rocket Center
Get ready to discover what’s beyond the Earth here in the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, a must-see for space enthusiasts.
The museum offers various displays and exhibits like real rockets, spacecraft, and other artifacts from NASA.
There are also interactive exhibits and simulators to let you experience what living in space is like.
Aside from the exhibits, they offer educational programs and camps for kids and adults, like Space Camp and Aviation Challenge.
You can also find the Intuitive Planetarium, which offers astronomy shows and multimedia presentations about the universe’s wonders.
Visit: 1 Tranquility Base, Huntsville, AL 35805
Call: 256-721-7114
Cloudmont Ski & Golf Resort
Cloudmont Ski & Golf Resort is a tourist spot within another tourist destination on Lookout Mountain.
Since 1970, the resort has offered lessons for anyone who wants to try skiing at all levels on 1000-foot-long slopes.
When the temperature drops, the resort opens snowmaking activities where you can enjoy their quality machine-made snow.
There are also cabin rentals along the golf course, ski slope, and Little River, so you can comfortably relax and explore.
You can find an activity, whatever the season, and expect a peaceful mountain setting.
Visit: 721 Co Rd 614, Mentone, AL 35984
Call: 256-634-4344
Talladega Superspeedway
Talladega Superspeedway is a famous race track with high speed and steep banking, measuring 2.66 miles long.
It is one of the most challenging tracks on the NASCAR circuit because of its turns that have a 33-degree angle.
This speedway also hosts motorsports events all year round, like the Talladega 300, International Motorsports Hall of Fame 250, and more.
It can hold up to 175,000 spectators, making it one of the largest sports sites in the world.
One fun fact about this place is that it introduced the restrictor plate in 1987 to limit speeds and increase safety for NASCAR.
Visit: 3366 Speedway Blvd, Lincoln, AL 35096
Call: 877-462-3342
Mobile Carnival Museum
The Mobile Carnival Museum offers guided tours, special events, and educational programs on the rich cultural heritage of Mobile.
You can learn about the traditions of Mardi Gras and how it evolved in Mobile, where it started.
It features different Mardi Gras organizations, costumes, floats, and other props used during parades.
The museum also offers information about the influence of African Americans in Mardi Gras culture.
The Mobile Carnival Museum is open year-round, so you can visit and learn any time and shop for souvenirs from their gift shop.
Visit: 355 Government St. Mobile, AL 36602
Call: 251-432-3324
Dismals Canyon
Dismals Canyon is a popular place because of its rich cultural history, but most importantly, because of its bioluminescent creatures.
Dismalites are a fungus that emits a bright blue-green light that gives it a magical glow, especially at night.
Only a few places in the world have this species, so if you are near or living within Alabama, Dismals Canyon is a must-see.
Aside from these magical fungi, you can find waterfalls, pools, and rock formations when you explore the canyon.
You can also go camping or rest in their cabins to explore this natural wonderland more.
Visit: 901 County Rd 8, Phil Campbell, AL 35581
Call: 205-993-4559
Exploreum Science Center
The Exploreum Science Center is a popular destination in Mobile, Alabama, because of the fantastic things to discover.
It features a variety of interactive exhibits, films, and educational programs about science.
Another thing to catch your eye when you visit is the actual building of the science center.
You can find the historical influence of Mobile with modern elements like gabled roofs, stucco walls, copper dome roofs, and more.
Like the center’s mission to spark your imagination, you can find opportunities for a fun learning environment.
Visit: 65 Government St., Mobile, AL 36602
Call: 251-208-6893
Bright Star Restaurant
The Bright Star Restaurant has over a century of serving a taste of Alabama’s rich culinary heritage.
It has served Greek-influenced steak and seafood in its classic setting since 1907.
In their dark wood paneling and crystal chandeliers, you can feel the elegance and charm of the past.
But the show’s real star is their famous seafood gumbo, Greek-style snapper, and steak.
You can find a range of international dishes and Southern specialties with their carefully curated wine list.
Visit: 304 19th St N, Bessemer, AL 35020
Call: 205-424-9444
Cathedral Caverns State Park
Cathedral Caverns State Park is a public recreation area serving as a natural history preserve in Kennamer Cove.
It used to be the Bats Cave, but after its renovation, it became a tourist attraction and is now a world-class show cave.
You can enjoy camping on the grounds or rent their cabins while you hike trails, plan picnics, and mine gemstones.
The Cathedral Caverns got its name because its cathedral-like appearance boasts a spacious entrance.
Inside, you can find beautiful natural formations like Goliath, one of the most enormous stalagmites in the world.
Visit: 637 Cave Rd, Woodville, AL 35776
Call: 256-728-8193
Saenger Theatre
Saenger Theatre is the spot if you want to catch some entertaining shows while also enjoying history.
This historic theater is well-loved because of its stunning architecture and contribution to the entertainment industry.
With its 1,900 seating capacity, there is plenty of room to catch a show and various acts to watch.
Visit: 6 S Joachim St, Mobile, AL 36602
Call: 251-208-5600
Ave Maria Grotto
Ave Maria Grotto is an incredible display of miniatures of some of the world’s famous religious structures.
This 4-acre park lies in an old quarry on the grounds of St. Bernard Abbey, so you have enough space to explore.
The displays you can find are from the handiwork of Brother Joseph Zoetl, OSB, a monk of the Abbey.
The attention to detail in each 125 cement structure is one of the best things in this Grotto.
Visit: 1600 St Bernard Dr, Cullman, AL 35055
Call: 256-734-4110
Noccalula Falls Park
Pack your bags and prepare for a nature adventure in Noccalula Falls Park, where you can find a 90-foot waterfall.
And that is just one of the things you can find here. There’s so much more to explore down the creek.
You can start by strolling along their walking trails, discovering their gardens, or riding their miniature train.
The kids can also enjoy personal encounters with animals while the family sits for a picnic in the pavilion.
There is much to do on the grounds, like their ten camping site, prepared with all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay.
Visit: 1500 Noccalula Road, Gadsden, Al 35904
Call: 256-549-4663
GulfQuest National Maritime Museum
GulfQuest National Maritime Museum is a one-of-a-kind museum that brings to life the maritime heritage.
It offers an interactive experience so people of all ages can learn and enjoy the beautiful world of the sea.
On their life-sized replica of a container ship, you can find over 90 displays, simulators, theaters, and exhibits.
Visit: 155 Water St, Mobile, AL 36602
Call: 251-436-8901
Moundville Archaeological Park
Moundville Archaeological Park is a must-see if you love learning about Native American history and archaeology.
The museum features state-of-the-art exhibits and displays like artifacts from the site’s excavations.
As one of North America’s most important prehistoric sites, you can find why through its artifacts on display.
Visit: 634 Mound State Parkway, Moundville, AL 35474
Call: 205-371-2234
Cheaha State Park
Are you looking for an all-around adventure in Alabama?
Look no further than Cheaha State Park!
With the location being 2,407 feet above sea level, this park is like an island in the sky with breathtaking views.
You can find granite boulders, ancient trees, and luscious landscapes, but they are still accessible to the entertainment districts.
Visit: 19644 Hwy 281, Delta, AL 36258
Call: 256-488-5111
Mardi Gras
Your Alabama bucket list would not be complete if you did not experience the Mardi Gras in Mobile.
It is not your average carnival festival because it celebrates the city’s history and culture.
As it is home to the first Mardi Gras in America, the city takes its celebrations seriously, with weeks filled with parties, parades, and food.
You can witness themed floats with masked people, marching bands, and plenty of Moon Pies thrown from the floats.
So, if you want to experience a fun Mardi Gras and Mobile’s vibrant community, add it to your bucket list.
Visit: Downtown Mobile, AL
Wrapping Up Alabama Bucket List
So there you have it!
A bucket list filled with the most exciting and unique experiences Alabama offers.
From the soaring mountains to the ocean’s depths, you can find something to enjoy solo or with your loved ones.
Start planning your trip to Alabama today and cross some of these unique experiences off your list.
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