Alabama Travel Guide

United States of America
Mobile showing a skyscraper
In the heartland of the southern U.S. is a state known for its complex, fascinating history, storied cities and legendary musical legacy.

Alabama is a microcosm of America’s Deep South. The state offers everything associated with popular images of Dixie, including atmospheric countryside lined with moss-draped trees, historical sites from the civil rights movement and a music scene that combines jazz, soul and country. Hit the streets of famous cities such as Montgomery and Birmingham, wander through the state’s colorful landscapes or relax on the laid-back southern coastline.

The 22nd state joined the union in 1819, yet American Indians lived here for almost 10,000 years before it was settled by Europeans. Visit Alabama’s numerous historical sites to gain a sense of the state’s layered history. Head to Mooresville for pioneering, Sloss Furnaces in Birmingham for industry and the Civil Rights Memorial in Montgomery for stories from the 20th century.

Travel across the length of the state to explore different musical attractions. In North Alabama, discover the history of soul in the town of Florence. Visit the FAME Recording Studios and the W. C. Handy Birthplace, Museum & Library to learn about the “Father of the Blues.” Central Alabama offers the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame while in Lower Alabama you can enjoy the Hank Williams Museum, dedicated to the country and western legend.

Leave the cities of Alabama behind and explore its scenic countryside. In the north, several hiking trails leave Huntsville and wind into the southwestern tip of the Appalachian Mountains. Climb Cheaha Mountain to reach the highest natural point in the whole state, at an elevation of 2,407 feet (734 meters).

Spend a day on the beach in Lower Alabama, relaxing in Gulf State Park or enjoying watersports on the ocean. The nearby city of Mobile features the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park, which features several authentic naval crafts from different eras of the state’s military history.

Alabama is accessible via multiple airports across the state, including transport hubs in Montgomery and Birmingham. The state remains hot throughout the year. Visit in fall for colorful scenery and less humid days.

Popular cities in Alabama

Vulcan Statue which includes a city
Birmingham
Known for Shopping, Sports and Theatres
Once a center of the civil rights movement, Alabama’s largest city has emerged from its troubled past as an exciting spot full of attractions.

Reasons to visit

  • McWane Science Center
  • Alabama Theater
  • Birmingham Civil Rights Institute
Huntsville showing a pond and a garden
Huntsville
Known for Theatres, Museums and Live music
Lush mountainous landscapes surround this northeastern Alabama city, known for its fun-filled festivals and its role in the Revolutionary War and space age.

Reasons to visit

  • US Space and Rocket Center
  • Bridge Street Town Centre
  • Huntsville Botanical Garden
Montgomery featuring night scenes, modern architecture and a hotel
Montgomery
Known for Historical, Casinos and Rivers
This city on the Alabama River was a key location in the American civil rights movement during the mid-20th century. Come here to learn about Southern history and culture.

Reasons to visit

  • Alabama State University
  • Alabama State Capitol
  • Civil Rights Memorial
Tuscaloosa
Tuscaloosa
Known for Universities, Shopping and Sports
Steeped in a rich local history, this charming city offers art centers, exciting museums and a lively sports scene.

Reasons to visit

  • University of Alabama
  • Bryant-Denny Stadium
  • Tuscaloosa Amphitheater
Gulf Shores which includes a sandy beach and general coastal views as well as a small group of people
Gulf Shores
Known for Beaches, Live music and Seafood
Beautiful beaches, championship golf courses, great seafood and unusual nature experiences attract carefree vacationers to this pleasant Alabama resort area.

Reasons to visit

  • Fort Morgan
  • Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge
  • Pirate's Island Adventure Golf
Mobile showing a skyscraper and a garden
Mobile
Known for Universities, Sports and Museums
As the host of America’s first Mardi Gras, this Southern city has plenty of personality, with charming neighborhoods, historical museums and delicious local food.

Reasons to visit

  • USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park