8 Things To Do In Alabama (Natural Wonders, Museums & Fun)

I visited Alabama by chance back in 2015. However, since then, I have returned 2 more times.

Alabama is one of those states with a lot to offer, making it virtually impossible to fully explore it in a single trip or vacation.

This varies from its rich history, natural landscapes, food culture, and sports, especially football.

During my visits, I have explored many sites, allowing me to uncover a few of the state’s hidden gems.

Here’s a taste of what Alabama offers – from my own experiences.

Table of Contents

1. Tour The USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park – Mobile

The USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park is Alabama’s most visited park. Taking the day to explore this well-known piece of history was one of the best things I did in Mobile, Alabama.

As you approach the ship, you can’t help but be struck by the sheer size of this battleship, standing more than 270 feet tall and 860 feet long. The Park is a good place to learn about World War II.

You will also get to experience a firsthand look at what life was like for the men and women who served aboard her in the Pacific.

For a more detailed tour, take a self-guided tour of the battleship’s facilities, and don’t forget to peek through:

Memorial Plaza
The Medal of Honor Memorial
BB-60 Museum
Alabama State Veterans Memorial
USS Alabama Educational Center
Artifacts from World War II include historical artifacts, uniforms, weapons, and equipment.
Aviation Pavilion
Submarine USS Drum

2. Enjoy The Beautiful Scenery Of Little River Canyon National Preserve

On my most recent visit to Fort Payne in Alabama, I was lucky to witness this natural wonder.

The park spans over 15,288 acres. However, the main attraction is the Little River- a mountaintop river with a 12-mile stretch.

There are also towering sandstone walls that reach up to 600ft, with emerald green waters meandering through the canyon.

Along the river, you can find an abundance of wildlife, including black bears, white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and beavers.

Numerous bird species exist, such as bald eagles, osprey, and pileated woodpeckers.

If you want to, you can also participate in other activities such as hiking, backcountry camping, hunting, canoeing, and fishing (a valid license is necessary).

3. Take A Tour Of The Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail- Opelika

What is more relaxing than a round of golf? Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned golfer, add this top-rated course to your list of things to do in the region.

Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail- Opelika Alabama — Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail – Opelika

With four championship golf courses, each boasting scenic views and challenging holes, it’s no wonder this is one of the most popular golfing spots in the South.

It is a 7,400-yard par 72 championship layout with two world-class courses created by the renowned Robert Trent Jones.

The 18 holes feature undulating fairways and challenging greens, with water hazards, bunkers, and other natural obstacles to add to the challenge.

The Trail also offers several other amenities, such as:

Clubhouse featuring a restaurant and pro shop
Driving range
Practice greens
Fitness center
Golf academy offering golf lessons
Camps for all ages and abilities

4. Enjoy A Beach Day At The Gulf Shores

Gulf Shores is one of Alabama’s most popular gateways thanks to the Gulf of Mexico’s warm, emerald-hued waters. The sun-kissed coastline stretches as far as 32 miles.

There are various beach access points, but I recommend visiting Gulf Place and Gulf Shore Public Beach. These are great spots for sunbathing, swimming, and playing beach volleyball.

Another amazing option would be to head to the Alabama Gulf Coast for a fun-filled family vacation! You can rent kayaks, jet skis, and paddle boards.

For a more leisurely experience, take a charter boat cruise to take in the beauty of the Gulf Coast.

After a blissful day at the beach, indulge in the succulent seafood dishes at the Original Oyster House Boardwalk. You can also quench your thirst with a cold drink at the Pink Pony Pub.

5. Visit The McWane Science Center – Birmingham

McWane Science Center is one of my top picks for an educational and entertaining day in Birmingham, Alabama.

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The science center is an exciting interactive place established in July 1998 and features over 500,000 artifacts from the Red Belt Museum.

The building is more than 9000 square feet boasting four floors of more than 400 interactive exhibits, including a dinosaur-filled fossil discovery room and a hands-on chemistry lab.

There is also a planetarium, an aquarium (which has over 500 species of marine life), and an IMAX theater.

What’s more, you can get a chance to witness live shows that bring science to life with exciting demonstrations, such as the popular “Science on a Sphere” show.

Exploring the science center was a delight, and some of the highlights of my trip included:

80-foot fossil whale
Fossil Dig
Anti-Gravity Mirror
Bed of Nails
The collection of Alabama birds includes one of the rarest woodpeckers and a skull from the extinct dodo bird.

6. Visit The Birmingham Museum Of Art (Birmingham)

The Birmingham Museum of Art is one of the most renowned art institutions featuring pieces from around the world.

Located in downtown Birmingham, the museum has been providing guests a unique experience since 1951.

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The museum has a vast collection consisting of over 24,000 pieces of art, ranging from ancient to modern works of art, including pieces from Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas.

It also boasts a large modern and contemporary art collection, with pieces from famous artists such as:

Vincent van Gogh
Claude Monet
Georgia O’Keeffe
Andy Warhol
Henri Rousseau

There is also a significant collection of art from Alabama. These include works by miniaturist Hannah Elliott and landscape painter Carrie Hill.

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10 Things To Do In Birmingham, Alabama

However, despite the sophisticated works on display, the highlight of my visit was KidSpace. It was great to see how the museum catered to younger visitors with activities and interactive displays.

My daughter had a wonderful time exploring the museum and was able to take on the role of a curator, express her creativity through art, and learn about the world around her.

7. Explore The Caves At Cathedral Caverns State Park-Woodville

This secret treasure lies deep in the heart of Marshall County, Alabama.

This picturesque Park is home to some of the most spectacular caves found in the southeastern United States.

The entrance to Cathedral Caverns is a large opening measuring 25 feet high and 126 feet wide. The cave features an array of stalactites and stalagmites.

Many of these formations are over 20 feet long, with some larger ones being given names such as Goliath and The Snowy Chandelier.

The Park is popular with hikers, campers, and cavers alike. The caverns are also home to various wildlife, underground streams, and waterfalls.

If you enjoy hiking, there are several different trails and paths to explore, ranging from easy to difficult.

You can opt to explore the cave on your own or take a guided tour. During the tour, you will learn about the history of the cave and the formation of its many formations.

8. Take A Dolphin Cruise At Orange Beach

Consider taking a dolphin tour at Orange Beach if you’re searching for a thrilling adventure while visiting Alabama’s lovely beaches.

The beach is a magnet for all sorts of holidaymakers, whether they are visiting for the first time or returning year after year (as many do).

There are a lot of boat tours available, but for the ultimate experience, I recommend doing a Glass Bottom Dolphin Tour!

Your tour guide will share helpful information about these creatures, their habits, and their environment. It’s a fantastic educational experience for anyone interested in these intriguing critters.

As for me, on one of my most recent visits, I got to learn that dolphins do not sleep like most other creatures. They have the ability to turn off sections of their brain while others remain active (to defend themselves from predators).

Also, while you are out exploring Orange Beach waters, why not take a snorkeling trip? Some of the underwater life I was able to get up close with include:

Sea turtles
Stingrays
Jellyfish
Crabs

Final Thoughts

Alabama has a lot to offer. However, my favorite adventure during my trip was exploring the majestic beauty of Cathedral Caverns State Park’s caves.

The caves provided a surreal experience, with remarkable rock formations and breathtaking stalagmite formations.

I was excited as I explored the hidden depths of the caverns, and I will never forget the feeling of amazement that I felt while standing in this incredible underground wonderland.