The state tourism department has released the following list of free sites and activities that are deemed family-friendly.
Gulf Coast:
Beaches in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach - Plant your beach umbrella in the powdery soft sand on the Alabama Gulf Coast. The area showcases 32 miles of pristine beach front and numerous public access points. The Gulf State Park includes a lakefront picnic area, boat launch, beach pavilion and an 825-foot fishing pier. 1-800-ALAPARK. www.gulfshores.com, www.orangebeach.com.
Thunder on the Gulf - Get revved up for a weekend of sun, surf and speed as the world's fastest race boats battle it out for first place. Meet the drivers, see the boats and catch live entertainment Friday and Saturday at Race Village at The Wharf. Then watch as the boats set the gulf on fire Sunday. www.thunderonthegulf.com. Races are free to the public. Race Village admission is $5 for ages 12+ and free for children under 12.
Battle of Mobile Bay Civil War Trail - Follow the footsteps of yesterday's soldiers as you navigate this 90-mile loop that meanders through Mobile and Baldwin Counties. Interpretative signage at each stop pulls everyone from the history buff to a novice into this fascinating story. There is a fee to visit Fort Morgan. www.battleofmobilebay.com.
Free Summer Kid Shows - Every Tuesday - Thursday through the end of July.
Pinnacle 14 Cinemas, Gulf Shores Contact: Phone: 251-923-0785, http://www.cobbtheatres.com/kids_film_fest/pinnacle14.html.
APBA Watercross National's 11th Annual Surf and Turf Championships - Cheer for your favorite athlete during this jet skis competition, which will be held in the gulf waters near the Perdido Beach Resort, August 2-3. Contact: 250-376-5495, www.pwcfun.com.
Montgomery:
Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts - Weekends at One - Free 1 p.m.
"Weekends at One" docent-led tour on Sunday. Guided tours are available for groups of all ages. Call the tour coordinator at the museum 334-240-4333 or e-mail tours@mmfa.org to request a brochure or schedule a tour.
Alabama Department of Archives and History - Explore the history of Alabama through an extensive collection of portraits, memorabilia, documents and artifacts. Children will enjoy hands-on play in "Grandma's Attic." For more information, call (334) 353-4712 or visit www.archives.alabama.gov.
Old Alabama Town Jam Sessions - Join Old Alabama Town's Saturday Jam Sessions on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month. The sessions are from 9 a.m. until noon at the 1840s Rose House. Old Alabama Town is a collection of authentically restored 19th and 20th century structures. A magnificent setting, it stretches along six blocks in the heart of historic downtown Montgomery. There is a charge to tour Old Alabama Town. 334-240-4500, www.oldalabamatown.com.
Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama (HMMA) plant tours - The 2-million square-foot manufacturing plant resides on 1,744 acres of land and includes stamping, welding, paint, vehicle assembly and engine shops. The hour-long, guided tram tour is educational and entertaining. Tours are available Monday, Wednesday & Friday at 9:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. & 2:00 p.m. Please call or visit the website for more information or to arrange a tour. Tour reservations: 334-387-8019 Monday-Friday between 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Register online www.hmmausa.com.
Movie Mondays at the Riverwalk Amphitheater - This popular summer film festival at the Riverwalk Amphitheater is FREE and back again this year. Gates open at 6:00 p.m. Come see the latest releases, which will include "Alvin and the Chipmunks" on July 7, "Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium" on July 14 and "Dr. Seuss' Horton Hears a Who" on July 21. Full concessions will be available. For more information, call 334-241-2100. The Amphitheater also has a splash pad fountain of water for children and the surround sound system provides crystal clear quality for each event.
Auburn/Opelika:
Enjoy an 110-acre Forest Eco preserve - Miles of beautifully wooded hiking and birding trails, 15 named trails through a variety of animal habitats, ponds, streams, native azalea and fern viewing area, waterfalls and a butterfly garden.
www.aotourism.com.
Hang out at DJ's house and check him out in the famous "orange pants". Clothing optional. (ok, I added that one..)
Huntsville/Madison County:
Huntsville/Madison County Visitor Center - Visit for help with planning your activities and discount coupons for all area attractions. See how Huntsville grew from a small agricultural town to become Rocket City, USA. The center is located at 500 Church Street. Monday - Saturday 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and Sunday noon - 5:00 p.m. Contact: 800-772-2348 or 256-533-5723, www.huntsville.org.
Bicentennial Park - The park has an interactive fountain for the young and young at heart with bronze statues and pavilion just behind the Early Works Museum. www.huntsville.org.
Huntsville Greenways - Greenways are perfect for exercising, whether taking a relaxing stroll or biking for recreational enjoyment. Greenways are located throughout the city for the enjoyment of residents and visitors alike. City of Huntsville Urban Planning Department 256-427-5100.
Mobile:
Fort Condé - The city's official Welcome Center and living history museum. Wander through the cool brick halls and see how soldiers lived. Climb up to the top where the cannons are located for a breathtaking view of the area. Contact: 251-208-7569 or www.museumofmobile.com/html/other_museums.php.
Five Rivers: Alabama's Delta Resource Center - Check out Mobile Bay's newest attraction located right on the water! See the changing interactive exhibits in the exhibit hall, watch a film on the delta in the hi-tech digital theater, follow one of many nature trails, or just sit on the dock and watch the fish jump. Five Rivers brings nature to you. Contact: 251-625-0814 www.alabama5rivers.com.
Dauphin Island - Spend a sunny day on the beach and swimming in the Gulf of Mexico, explore the boardwalks in the Audubon Bird Sanctuary or discover the mysteries behind the Indian Shell Mound Park. Contact: 251-861-3607 or www.dauphinisland.org. For more information visit www.mobilebay.org.
DeKalb County:
Little River Canyon - This is one of the deepest canyons east of the Mississippi and has water falls, hiking, swimming areas and magnificent canyon views. Contact: www.nps.gov/liri.
Fort Payne Depot Museum - See historic artifacts from the 1880s when Fort Payne was a boom town. Wealthy New Englanders came to Fort Payne to get richer on the iron ore and coal which turned out not to be there. Also has a wealth of Cherokee Indian artifacts. Fort Payne is home to America's top country music group Alabama, who had 21 number one records. For more information visit www.fortpaynedepotmuseum.org.
Tuscaloosa:
Goldfish Races - Bring the kids to see these unique races every Tuesday evening at Steamers Restaurant in Northport. You get to keep the winning goldfish. www.visittuscaloosa.com.
Black Warrior Riverwalk - Take a leisure stroll along the riverwalk. Sunsets are beautiful. www.visittuscaloosa.com.
Capitol Park - Enjoy free concerts at the former site of Alabama's State Capitol. www.visittuscaloosa.com.
Monroeville:
Visit Monroe County's Old Courthouse Museum - See permanent exhibits on Truman Capote, Harper Lee and the Old Courthouse made famous by To Kill A Mockingbird. Contact 251-575-7433 for the museum or 251-743-2879 for the Chamber of Commerce. 31 North Alabama Avenue.
Walking Tours - Take one of three self-guided walking tours in Monroeville.
1. 1930s Monroeville - see some of the sites made famous by Harper Lee's "To Kill A Mockingbird".
2. Historic Downtown Monroeville - walk the downtown square and view historic sites and buildings. Request a guide by calling 251-743-2879.
3. Volkswalk -10K walk through historic Monroeville neighborhoods including Whitey Lee Park and lake. Pick up your map and points of interest information at the Monroevillle Police Station, 49 South Mount Pleasant Avenue. For further information on these and other Monroeville activities call the Chamber of Commerce at 251-743-2879.
Decatur-Morgan County:
Cook's Natural Science Museum - Wildlife common to the Tennessee Valley is featured in one display with over 50 species of insects, animals and water life from the region. For more information contact 256-350-9347.
Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge - The refuge encompasses 34,500 acres of naturally preserved woodlands offering a unique opportunity to experience wildlife in its natural habitat. The center features a large glass enclosed observatory and is open to self-guided tours with displays, pamphlets and wildlife films. For more information contact 356-350-6639.
Dothan:
Dothan Area Botanical Gardens - The reasons to visit the Dothan Area Botanical Gardens keep growing! A tranquil, paved nature trail meanders through a beautiful rose garden, through herbs, daylilies, camellias, azaleas, past a peaceful pond, Victorian gazebo and a demonstration garden. Open daily. Winter: 7:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Summer: 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Dothan, 334-793-3224, www.dabg.com.
Army Aviation Museum - Ft. Rucker - See the largest collection of U.S. Army Aviation memorabilia. Museum exhibits, military airplanes, helicopters and gift shop. Open Monday - Saturday 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Sunday, noon - 4:00 p.m. 888-276-9286 www.armyavnmuseum.org.
Farley Nuclear Visitors Center - Explore energy at the Farley Nuclear Visitors Center. Scheduled tours are available Tuesday through Friday upon request. Visitors Center open daily 7 a.m. - 4 p.m., Columbia.
G.W. Carver Museum - The museum is a tribute to Dr. George Washington Carver. Exhibits reflect the historical scope of contributions and achievements of African descended cultures as demonstrated by Dr. Carver. Open Tuesday - Friday: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Saturdays: 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Guided tours available upon request. Closed Holidays. Dothan, 334.712.0933 or 334-794-3633, www.gwcarvermuseum.org.
Wiregrass Museum of Art - Six galleries feature changing exhibitions of visual and decorative arts in a historic building. Also features a Youth Art Gallery with a hands-on exhibit for children and a gift gallery for shopping. Tuesday - Saturday: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Closed on Sundays, Mondays and holidays. Dothan, 334-794-3871, www.wiregrassmuseum.org.
Limestone County:
Art on the Square - Art on the Square is an annual art show on the lawn of the Limestone County Courthouse. Local artists display and sell their work. There is also a hands-on kids area where children can demonstrate their artistic skills with sidewalk chalk drawing, finger painting, poster painting, pottery making, t-shirt tie-dying and much more. September 6, 2008, Courthouse Square, Athens, 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. www.artonthesquareathens.com.
Guntersville:
Lake Guntersville State Park - Overlooking the majestic 69,000-acre Guntersville Reservoir, Guntersville State Park ranges over 6,000 acres of natural woodlands. The park has an 18-hole championship golf course, a beach complex, fishing center, hiking trails, nature programs and a day-use area. Modern campgrounds and lakeview cottages on the lake, coupled with a resort lodge on the pinnacle of Taylor Mountain, and chalets on the ridge-tops provide a selection of overnight accommodations.
Guntersville Museum and Cultural Center - Located in their brand new home at the historic rock Armory at the southernmost point of the Tennessee River, Lake Guntersville provides a unique vantage point on history and the culture of the region. The museum offers visitors a chance to explore everything from Native American artifacts to interesting local personalities.
Arab Historic Village - Located in Arab City Park, enjoy the Old Hunt School, Rice Mill Church, Elvin Light Museum, Blacksmith Shop, Country Store and Grist Mill. It was developed as a tribute to the pioneering people who settled and built this area into the prosperous, community-spirited place it is today. At the present time, six of the 8-10 buildings are completed and furnished with items from 1880 through the 1940s.
The Shoals:
Spring Park - This historic park dates back to the early 1800s. It features the world's largest man-made natural stone waterfall, Coldwater Falls, and fountain dedicated to the memory of Princess Im-Mi-Ah-Key, wife of Chickasaw Indian Chief Tuscumbia (for whom the town is named). Spring Park Light and Water Show - The fountain that is the focal point of the small lake at Tuscumbia's Spring Park presents a spectacular display of 51 flumes of dancing water which jet 150 feet into the air. Set to the famous music of Muscle Shoals and the music of famous Alabamians, the water show provides an enjoyable overview of Alabama's musical heritage. The water show is each Wednesday - Sunday nights at dusk, March - December. Tuscumbia, 256-383-0783.
Spring Park Market - Upscale farmers market runs for 16 weeks during June, July, August and September. The Market is open on Thursday's from 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Live music is provided each week and a guest chef giving cooking demonstrations using the fresh produce and the specialty products available that day. Tuscumbia, (256) 383-0783.
Coondog Graveyard - A unique tribute to man's best friend, this park is located in the Freedom Hills of North Alabama. More than 185 coon dogs have been buried at the site. The state tourism department has listed the Coondog Cemetery Labor Day Celebration a Top 10 event. On September 1, graves are decorated and visitors can enjoy buck dancing, a liar's contest and entertainment with barbecue available 1:00-4:00p.m.Driving time from Tuscumbia is 30 minutes. Contact: 256-383-0783 or 800-344-0783.
Riverfront Park - Riverfront Park, located along the south shore of the Tennessee River, boasts boat launches, fishing piers, docking facilities, picnicking, gazebo and restrooms. Also home of the Boundless Playground, ramps replace steps, sand tables replace sand boxes, a game of tic-tac-toe can be played using Braille. A truly accessible playground for all children.
Cane Creek Canyon Nature Preserve - Owned by Dr. James and Fay Lacefield, this 440-acre natural preserve is privately owned, but open for the public to enjoy. Cane Creek Canyon offers waterfalls, rock shelters and giant boulders. Visitors to this wildlife preserve may enjoy the beauty of nature by hiking, camping, picnicking. Thousands of native azaleas, mountain laurel and other wildflowers may be viewed along the 10 miles of hiking trails. Tuscumbia. www.colbertcountytourism.org.
Natchez Trace - The Scenic Byway and All American Road consists of 441 miles operated by the National Park Service, stretching from Nashville to Natchez. Enjoy 33 miles of the Trace that pass through Alabama in Colbert and Lauderdale Counties. www.colbertcountytourism.org.
Visit the Lions at UNA - The University of North Alabama is known for its outstanding academic programs, but those who didn't come to Florence to study can enjoy the campus and the multi-million dollar lion habitat that is home to Leo III and Una-the school's live lion mascots. Watch them splash in their waterfall or lounge around for a mid-afternoon nap and you can even hear Leo's roar across campus in the morning.
The Florence Indian Mound - At 43 feet high, the Florence Indian Mound is history. Visitors are encouraged to climb the 10,000 year old steps themselves just as the Indian priests and chiefs did. The native Yuchi tribe named the nearby Tennessee River the"singing river" because they could hear a young woman's songs in the waters. www.visitflorenceal.com.
First Fridays - On the first Friday of every month, the streets of downtown Florence are lined with local and regional artists displaying and selling their wares. www.visitflorenceal.com.
Birmingham:
Museum of Art - The Birmingham Museum of Art is the largest municipal museum in the Southeast and one of the finest regional museums in the country. The Museum has a nationally- recognized permanent collection of over 21,000 works of art dating from ancient to modern times, from cultures across the globe. Of particular interest are: The Charles W. Ireland Sculpture Garden, American Art Collection, Asian Art Collection, Beeson Collection of Wedgwood, Contemporary Art Collection, Hitt Collection of 18th Century French Painting and Decorative Arts, Kress Collection of Renaissance Art, Native American Art Collection and the BMA's nationally-recognized
Visually-Impaired Program. Contact: 205-254-2565, http://www.artsbama.org.
Birmingham Botanical Gardens - The glory of nature in the heart of the city - that's the promise of the 67-acre Birmingham Botanical Gardens. See rhododendron, camellias, wildflowers, ferns, delicate bonsai plants, roses, desert flowers, outdoor sculpture collection, even a Japanese Garden, complete with a Japanese Teahouse and Zen-like sense of peacefulness.
Contact: 205-414-3900, http://www.bbgardens.org.
Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark - Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark is a 32-acre blast furnace plant where iron was made for nearly 100 years. Now a museum of history and industry, the site preserves an extraordinary collection of buildings, industrial structures, and machinery. These industrial artifacts typify the first 100 years of Birmingham's history and the technology that drove America's rise to world industrial dominance. Sloss is the only 20th century blast furnace in the country that is being preserved and interpreted as a museum. Sloss even has a ghost -Theopholus Calvin Jowers, who swore that as long as there was a furnace in Jefferson County, he'd be there.
Selma:
"Gone, but not Forgotten" Walking Tour - Step back in time and stroll down the streets of historic Selma. This one-mile walk takes you by some of the most important places in Selma. You'll understand why the largest historic district in the state has been named a "Preserve America" Community. You'll see sites from the Civil War era and the Voting Rights movements that impacted the entire world. Spend a few minutes in the heart of this city and you'll know why these buildings are "Gone, but not forgotten." www.selmalabama.com.
The Martin Luther King, Jr. Street Historic Walking tour - Stroll along the self-guided route which includes the MLK, Jr. monument in front of historic Brown Chapel AME Church; the starting point of the Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail. Kiosks include Voting Rights era photos and text to give visitors an understanding of the movement. Also visit the Edmund Pettus Bridge, the site of "Bloody Sunday," which was a major impetus for people across the country to become involved with this challenge. www.selmalabama.com.
Scavenger Hunt - Want to test your memory? Visit the Old Live Oak Cemetery in the heart of downtown Selma, Alabama. Take the tour of this beautiful moss-draped cemetery, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, then accept the challenge. The Scavenger Hunt in Old Live Cemetery is not your ordinary scavenger hunt, this one will test your wits. See if you remember the name of Alabama's only Vice President of the United States or Alabama's first US Congressman. You'll have fun and learn at the same time. www.selmalabama.com
Gulf Coast:
Beaches in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach - Plant your beach umbrella in the powdery soft sand on the Alabama Gulf Coast. The area showcases 32 miles of pristine beach front and numerous public access points. The Gulf State Park includes a lakefront picnic area, boat launch, beach pavilion and an 825-foot fishing pier. 1-800-ALAPARK. www.gulfshores.com, www.orangebeach.com.
Thunder on the Gulf - Get revved up for a weekend of sun, surf and speed as the world's fastest race boats battle it out for first place. Meet the drivers, see the boats and catch live entertainment Friday and Saturday at Race Village at The Wharf. Then watch as the boats set the gulf on fire Sunday. www.thunderonthegulf.com. Races are free to the public. Race Village admission is $5 for ages 12+ and free for children under 12.
Battle of Mobile Bay Civil War Trail - Follow the footsteps of yesterday's soldiers as you navigate this 90-mile loop that meanders through Mobile and Baldwin Counties. Interpretative signage at each stop pulls everyone from the history buff to a novice into this fascinating story. There is a fee to visit Fort Morgan. www.battleofmobilebay.com.
Free Summer Kid Shows - Every Tuesday - Thursday through the end of July.
Pinnacle 14 Cinemas, Gulf Shores Contact: Phone: 251-923-0785, http://www.cobbtheatres.com/kids_film_fest/pinnacle14.html.
APBA Watercross National's 11th Annual Surf and Turf Championships - Cheer for your favorite athlete during this jet skis competition, which will be held in the gulf waters near the Perdido Beach Resort, August 2-3. Contact: 250-376-5495, www.pwcfun.com.
Montgomery:
Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts - Weekends at One - Free 1 p.m.
"Weekends at One" docent-led tour on Sunday. Guided tours are available for groups of all ages. Call the tour coordinator at the museum 334-240-4333 or e-mail tours@mmfa.org to request a brochure or schedule a tour.
Alabama Department of Archives and History - Explore the history of Alabama through an extensive collection of portraits, memorabilia, documents and artifacts. Children will enjoy hands-on play in "Grandma's Attic." For more information, call (334) 353-4712 or visit www.archives.alabama.gov.
Old Alabama Town Jam Sessions - Join Old Alabama Town's Saturday Jam Sessions on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month. The sessions are from 9 a.m. until noon at the 1840s Rose House. Old Alabama Town is a collection of authentically restored 19th and 20th century structures. A magnificent setting, it stretches along six blocks in the heart of historic downtown Montgomery. There is a charge to tour Old Alabama Town. 334-240-4500, www.oldalabamatown.com.
Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama (HMMA) plant tours - The 2-million square-foot manufacturing plant resides on 1,744 acres of land and includes stamping, welding, paint, vehicle assembly and engine shops. The hour-long, guided tram tour is educational and entertaining. Tours are available Monday, Wednesday & Friday at 9:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. & 2:00 p.m. Please call or visit the website for more information or to arrange a tour. Tour reservations: 334-387-8019 Monday-Friday between 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Register online www.hmmausa.com.
Movie Mondays at the Riverwalk Amphitheater - This popular summer film festival at the Riverwalk Amphitheater is FREE and back again this year. Gates open at 6:00 p.m. Come see the latest releases, which will include "Alvin and the Chipmunks" on July 7, "Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium" on July 14 and "Dr. Seuss' Horton Hears a Who" on July 21. Full concessions will be available. For more information, call 334-241-2100. The Amphitheater also has a splash pad fountain of water for children and the surround sound system provides crystal clear quality for each event.
Auburn/Opelika:
Enjoy an 110-acre Forest Eco preserve - Miles of beautifully wooded hiking and birding trails, 15 named trails through a variety of animal habitats, ponds, streams, native azalea and fern viewing area, waterfalls and a butterfly garden.
www.aotourism.com.
Hang out at DJ's house and check him out in the famous "orange pants". Clothing optional. (ok, I added that one..)
Huntsville/Madison County:
Huntsville/Madison County Visitor Center - Visit for help with planning your activities and discount coupons for all area attractions. See how Huntsville grew from a small agricultural town to become Rocket City, USA. The center is located at 500 Church Street. Monday - Saturday 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and Sunday noon - 5:00 p.m. Contact: 800-772-2348 or 256-533-5723, www.huntsville.org.
Bicentennial Park - The park has an interactive fountain for the young and young at heart with bronze statues and pavilion just behind the Early Works Museum. www.huntsville.org.
Huntsville Greenways - Greenways are perfect for exercising, whether taking a relaxing stroll or biking for recreational enjoyment. Greenways are located throughout the city for the enjoyment of residents and visitors alike. City of Huntsville Urban Planning Department 256-427-5100.
Mobile:
Fort Condé - The city's official Welcome Center and living history museum. Wander through the cool brick halls and see how soldiers lived. Climb up to the top where the cannons are located for a breathtaking view of the area. Contact: 251-208-7569 or www.museumofmobile.com/html/other_museums.php.
Five Rivers: Alabama's Delta Resource Center - Check out Mobile Bay's newest attraction located right on the water! See the changing interactive exhibits in the exhibit hall, watch a film on the delta in the hi-tech digital theater, follow one of many nature trails, or just sit on the dock and watch the fish jump. Five Rivers brings nature to you. Contact: 251-625-0814 www.alabama5rivers.com.
Dauphin Island - Spend a sunny day on the beach and swimming in the Gulf of Mexico, explore the boardwalks in the Audubon Bird Sanctuary or discover the mysteries behind the Indian Shell Mound Park. Contact: 251-861-3607 or www.dauphinisland.org. For more information visit www.mobilebay.org.
DeKalb County:
Little River Canyon - This is one of the deepest canyons east of the Mississippi and has water falls, hiking, swimming areas and magnificent canyon views. Contact: www.nps.gov/liri.
Fort Payne Depot Museum - See historic artifacts from the 1880s when Fort Payne was a boom town. Wealthy New Englanders came to Fort Payne to get richer on the iron ore and coal which turned out not to be there. Also has a wealth of Cherokee Indian artifacts. Fort Payne is home to America's top country music group Alabama, who had 21 number one records. For more information visit www.fortpaynedepotmuseum.org.
Tuscaloosa:
Goldfish Races - Bring the kids to see these unique races every Tuesday evening at Steamers Restaurant in Northport. You get to keep the winning goldfish. www.visittuscaloosa.com.
Black Warrior Riverwalk - Take a leisure stroll along the riverwalk. Sunsets are beautiful. www.visittuscaloosa.com.
Capitol Park - Enjoy free concerts at the former site of Alabama's State Capitol. www.visittuscaloosa.com.
Monroeville:
Visit Monroe County's Old Courthouse Museum - See permanent exhibits on Truman Capote, Harper Lee and the Old Courthouse made famous by To Kill A Mockingbird. Contact 251-575-7433 for the museum or 251-743-2879 for the Chamber of Commerce. 31 North Alabama Avenue.
Walking Tours - Take one of three self-guided walking tours in Monroeville.
1. 1930s Monroeville - see some of the sites made famous by Harper Lee's "To Kill A Mockingbird".
2. Historic Downtown Monroeville - walk the downtown square and view historic sites and buildings. Request a guide by calling 251-743-2879.
3. Volkswalk -10K walk through historic Monroeville neighborhoods including Whitey Lee Park and lake. Pick up your map and points of interest information at the Monroevillle Police Station, 49 South Mount Pleasant Avenue. For further information on these and other Monroeville activities call the Chamber of Commerce at 251-743-2879.
Decatur-Morgan County:
Cook's Natural Science Museum - Wildlife common to the Tennessee Valley is featured in one display with over 50 species of insects, animals and water life from the region. For more information contact 256-350-9347.
Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge - The refuge encompasses 34,500 acres of naturally preserved woodlands offering a unique opportunity to experience wildlife in its natural habitat. The center features a large glass enclosed observatory and is open to self-guided tours with displays, pamphlets and wildlife films. For more information contact 356-350-6639.
Dothan:
Dothan Area Botanical Gardens - The reasons to visit the Dothan Area Botanical Gardens keep growing! A tranquil, paved nature trail meanders through a beautiful rose garden, through herbs, daylilies, camellias, azaleas, past a peaceful pond, Victorian gazebo and a demonstration garden. Open daily. Winter: 7:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Summer: 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Dothan, 334-793-3224, www.dabg.com.
Army Aviation Museum - Ft. Rucker - See the largest collection of U.S. Army Aviation memorabilia. Museum exhibits, military airplanes, helicopters and gift shop. Open Monday - Saturday 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Sunday, noon - 4:00 p.m. 888-276-9286 www.armyavnmuseum.org.
Farley Nuclear Visitors Center - Explore energy at the Farley Nuclear Visitors Center. Scheduled tours are available Tuesday through Friday upon request. Visitors Center open daily 7 a.m. - 4 p.m., Columbia.
G.W. Carver Museum - The museum is a tribute to Dr. George Washington Carver. Exhibits reflect the historical scope of contributions and achievements of African descended cultures as demonstrated by Dr. Carver. Open Tuesday - Friday: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Saturdays: 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Guided tours available upon request. Closed Holidays. Dothan, 334.712.0933 or 334-794-3633, www.gwcarvermuseum.org.
Wiregrass Museum of Art - Six galleries feature changing exhibitions of visual and decorative arts in a historic building. Also features a Youth Art Gallery with a hands-on exhibit for children and a gift gallery for shopping. Tuesday - Saturday: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Closed on Sundays, Mondays and holidays. Dothan, 334-794-3871, www.wiregrassmuseum.org.
Limestone County:
Art on the Square - Art on the Square is an annual art show on the lawn of the Limestone County Courthouse. Local artists display and sell their work. There is also a hands-on kids area where children can demonstrate their artistic skills with sidewalk chalk drawing, finger painting, poster painting, pottery making, t-shirt tie-dying and much more. September 6, 2008, Courthouse Square, Athens, 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. www.artonthesquareathens.com.
Guntersville:
Lake Guntersville State Park - Overlooking the majestic 69,000-acre Guntersville Reservoir, Guntersville State Park ranges over 6,000 acres of natural woodlands. The park has an 18-hole championship golf course, a beach complex, fishing center, hiking trails, nature programs and a day-use area. Modern campgrounds and lakeview cottages on the lake, coupled with a resort lodge on the pinnacle of Taylor Mountain, and chalets on the ridge-tops provide a selection of overnight accommodations.
Guntersville Museum and Cultural Center - Located in their brand new home at the historic rock Armory at the southernmost point of the Tennessee River, Lake Guntersville provides a unique vantage point on history and the culture of the region. The museum offers visitors a chance to explore everything from Native American artifacts to interesting local personalities.
Arab Historic Village - Located in Arab City Park, enjoy the Old Hunt School, Rice Mill Church, Elvin Light Museum, Blacksmith Shop, Country Store and Grist Mill. It was developed as a tribute to the pioneering people who settled and built this area into the prosperous, community-spirited place it is today. At the present time, six of the 8-10 buildings are completed and furnished with items from 1880 through the 1940s.
The Shoals:
Spring Park - This historic park dates back to the early 1800s. It features the world's largest man-made natural stone waterfall, Coldwater Falls, and fountain dedicated to the memory of Princess Im-Mi-Ah-Key, wife of Chickasaw Indian Chief Tuscumbia (for whom the town is named). Spring Park Light and Water Show - The fountain that is the focal point of the small lake at Tuscumbia's Spring Park presents a spectacular display of 51 flumes of dancing water which jet 150 feet into the air. Set to the famous music of Muscle Shoals and the music of famous Alabamians, the water show provides an enjoyable overview of Alabama's musical heritage. The water show is each Wednesday - Sunday nights at dusk, March - December. Tuscumbia, 256-383-0783.
Spring Park Market - Upscale farmers market runs for 16 weeks during June, July, August and September. The Market is open on Thursday's from 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Live music is provided each week and a guest chef giving cooking demonstrations using the fresh produce and the specialty products available that day. Tuscumbia, (256) 383-0783.
Coondog Graveyard - A unique tribute to man's best friend, this park is located in the Freedom Hills of North Alabama. More than 185 coon dogs have been buried at the site. The state tourism department has listed the Coondog Cemetery Labor Day Celebration a Top 10 event. On September 1, graves are decorated and visitors can enjoy buck dancing, a liar's contest and entertainment with barbecue available 1:00-4:00p.m.Driving time from Tuscumbia is 30 minutes. Contact: 256-383-0783 or 800-344-0783.
Riverfront Park - Riverfront Park, located along the south shore of the Tennessee River, boasts boat launches, fishing piers, docking facilities, picnicking, gazebo and restrooms. Also home of the Boundless Playground, ramps replace steps, sand tables replace sand boxes, a game of tic-tac-toe can be played using Braille. A truly accessible playground for all children.
Cane Creek Canyon Nature Preserve - Owned by Dr. James and Fay Lacefield, this 440-acre natural preserve is privately owned, but open for the public to enjoy. Cane Creek Canyon offers waterfalls, rock shelters and giant boulders. Visitors to this wildlife preserve may enjoy the beauty of nature by hiking, camping, picnicking. Thousands of native azaleas, mountain laurel and other wildflowers may be viewed along the 10 miles of hiking trails. Tuscumbia. www.colbertcountytourism.org.
Natchez Trace - The Scenic Byway and All American Road consists of 441 miles operated by the National Park Service, stretching from Nashville to Natchez. Enjoy 33 miles of the Trace that pass through Alabama in Colbert and Lauderdale Counties. www.colbertcountytourism.org.
Visit the Lions at UNA - The University of North Alabama is known for its outstanding academic programs, but those who didn't come to Florence to study can enjoy the campus and the multi-million dollar lion habitat that is home to Leo III and Una-the school's live lion mascots. Watch them splash in their waterfall or lounge around for a mid-afternoon nap and you can even hear Leo's roar across campus in the morning.
The Florence Indian Mound - At 43 feet high, the Florence Indian Mound is history. Visitors are encouraged to climb the 10,000 year old steps themselves just as the Indian priests and chiefs did. The native Yuchi tribe named the nearby Tennessee River the"singing river" because they could hear a young woman's songs in the waters. www.visitflorenceal.com.
First Fridays - On the first Friday of every month, the streets of downtown Florence are lined with local and regional artists displaying and selling their wares. www.visitflorenceal.com.
Birmingham:
Museum of Art - The Birmingham Museum of Art is the largest municipal museum in the Southeast and one of the finest regional museums in the country. The Museum has a nationally- recognized permanent collection of over 21,000 works of art dating from ancient to modern times, from cultures across the globe. Of particular interest are: The Charles W. Ireland Sculpture Garden, American Art Collection, Asian Art Collection, Beeson Collection of Wedgwood, Contemporary Art Collection, Hitt Collection of 18th Century French Painting and Decorative Arts, Kress Collection of Renaissance Art, Native American Art Collection and the BMA's nationally-recognized
Visually-Impaired Program. Contact: 205-254-2565, http://www.artsbama.org.
Birmingham Botanical Gardens - The glory of nature in the heart of the city - that's the promise of the 67-acre Birmingham Botanical Gardens. See rhododendron, camellias, wildflowers, ferns, delicate bonsai plants, roses, desert flowers, outdoor sculpture collection, even a Japanese Garden, complete with a Japanese Teahouse and Zen-like sense of peacefulness.
Contact: 205-414-3900, http://www.bbgardens.org.
Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark - Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark is a 32-acre blast furnace plant where iron was made for nearly 100 years. Now a museum of history and industry, the site preserves an extraordinary collection of buildings, industrial structures, and machinery. These industrial artifacts typify the first 100 years of Birmingham's history and the technology that drove America's rise to world industrial dominance. Sloss is the only 20th century blast furnace in the country that is being preserved and interpreted as a museum. Sloss even has a ghost -Theopholus Calvin Jowers, who swore that as long as there was a furnace in Jefferson County, he'd be there.
Selma:
"Gone, but not Forgotten" Walking Tour - Step back in time and stroll down the streets of historic Selma. This one-mile walk takes you by some of the most important places in Selma. You'll understand why the largest historic district in the state has been named a "Preserve America" Community. You'll see sites from the Civil War era and the Voting Rights movements that impacted the entire world. Spend a few minutes in the heart of this city and you'll know why these buildings are "Gone, but not forgotten." www.selmalabama.com.
The Martin Luther King, Jr. Street Historic Walking tour - Stroll along the self-guided route which includes the MLK, Jr. monument in front of historic Brown Chapel AME Church; the starting point of the Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail. Kiosks include Voting Rights era photos and text to give visitors an understanding of the movement. Also visit the Edmund Pettus Bridge, the site of "Bloody Sunday," which was a major impetus for people across the country to become involved with this challenge. www.selmalabama.com.
Scavenger Hunt - Want to test your memory? Visit the Old Live Oak Cemetery in the heart of downtown Selma, Alabama. Take the tour of this beautiful moss-draped cemetery, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, then accept the challenge. The Scavenger Hunt in Old Live Cemetery is not your ordinary scavenger hunt, this one will test your wits. See if you remember the name of Alabama's only Vice President of the United States or Alabama's first US Congressman. You'll have fun and learn at the same time. www.selmalabama.com
