by Mary P Ivy

Created on: September 07, 2010   Last Updated: April 18, 2011

Whether your Alabama vacation is in the forested mountain region of Lake Guntersville, one of the charming Gulf Coast towns, or a centrally located urban area, you will find the true meaning of "Sweet Home, Alabama."

Mountains

Lake Guntersville is a bass angler’s paradise and hosts an American Bass Anglers Tournament. Bring the boat and your favorite lures. Rent a cabin and cook up the day’s catch just the way you like it. Staying at Lake Guntersville also gives you lots of time to explore the nearby towns of Chattanooga and Cloudland. State parks beckon those seeking adventurous hikes near the southern end of the Appalachian Trail.

In northeast Alabama, visitors enjoy the vivid fall colors, misty valleys and charming small towns where people share their mountain arts, crafts and way of life. The Space Center in Huntsville and Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge are also popular destinations.

Race fans are probably familiar with Talladega Superspeedway, only an hour’s drive from Lake Guntersville

Gulf Coast

Fairhope, in the southern part of the state, is a perfect vacation spot. Those who enjoy water sports will love this area of both fresh and salt water. It is also an art and antique lover’s paradise. In fact, one of the southeast’s largest and most respected arts and crafts festivals draws 200,000 visitors to Fairhope in March. If you miss this, don’t worry. There are dozens of art and antique shops scattered around town. 

Nearby lies Mobile, a very old town; Fort Conde and the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park invite visitors to explore that history. Be sure to see Bellingrath Gardens. In Fort Morgan visit the historic fort which was completed in 1834.

Close by are Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, both famous for their fine beaches, dunes, and lively beach establishments.

Major cities in Central Alabama

In Birmingham, the largest city, a trip to the Japanese Gardens may be a highlight. The Birmingham Art Museum houses a fine collection of Wedgwood, along with significant pieces from around the world. In Montgomery, the capital, take in the Hank Williams Museum or the VictoryLand Greyhound Track.

Outdoor Fun Throughout Alabama

Aside from great hiking and fishing, the mild climate is perfect for golfing. The Guntersville area has a dozen courses alone. The Gulf Coast region has even more. Alabama also has 23 state parks, each with special and unique attractions. From Cathedral Caverns to urban

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>