The state of Alabama is one of the most important states in America, hosting some of the most important historical monuments and museums, which showcase the entire deep history of the country. In all these historical exhibits located in the state, one can enjoy all its cities’ tourist attractions and activities.
The state of Alabama is waiting for you. Come and discover the best tourist attractions in Alabama. We are contributing to this effort by presenting you with its top tourist spots.
We are starting with Orange Beach and Gulf Shores. Here, you will discover fantastic leisure and activity options, especially for the whole family, something that attracts thousands of travelers every year.
Orange Beach Alabama attractions
Orange Beach offers a relaxed coastal atmosphere, scenic beauty, and a range of activities, making it a popular destination for beachgoers, nature lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
Start with visiting Orange Beach Welcome Center. You can access complimentary brochures, local maps, and comprehensive information about lodging, attractions, dining options, and other relevant details to explore Alabama Gulf Coast.
Tourists can visit the Wharf Express Train, Adventure Island, History Museum, Fat Daddy’s Arcade, Beachside mini golf, and Coastal Art Center. Experiencing a dolphin cruise tour is a popular thing to do in Orange Beach Alabama.
Recommended tour packages:
- Alabama Gulf Coast Dolphin Cruise by Crusie Orange Beach Dolphin Cruises
- Big Fun Dolphin Cruise & Sealife Experience ORANGE BEACH ALABAMA by The Fun Boats
- 2-Hour Dolphin and Nature Eco Tour from Orange Beach by Cetacean Dolphin & Sailing Cruises
Orange Beach tour by transport rental:
There is another way of experiencing Orange Beach Alabama. Travelers can rent a Polaris slingshot or Jeep to explore this area. Here is the booking link for you:
- Polaris Slingshot Rental in Orange Beach by Gulf Coast Rental Co
- 4-Door Convertible Jeep Rental in Orange Beach by Gulf Coast Rental Co
Tourist pass:
- Orange Beach 3-day Family Fun Multi-Attraction Pass (including Gulf Shores)
Recommended hotels in Orange Beach, Alabama:
Gulf Shores Alabama attractions
1. Gulf Shores Welcome Center
Be sure to visit this welcome center. It will help you to make a plan for the Gulf Shores tour. Collect a copy of the full-color official vacation guide. Start your tour with this center and get a free brochure, local maps, and information.
2. Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge
Bon Secour preserves some of Alabama’s few remaining untouched coastal barrier habitats, serving as a natural sanctuary where wildlife can thrive without any disturbances. The refuge is great for visitors who love hiking, bird-watching, boating, photography, and fishing.
The refuge trails at Bon Secour offer visitors a chance to explore a variety of habitats found within the refuge, including dunes, swales, wetlands, maritime forests, and scrub habitats. These trails are accessible throughout the year, from sunrise to sunset, and showcase the distinct characteristics of the area.
3. Gulf State Park
Traveling to the white and sandy beaches of Gulf State Park, you will be delighted, whether you are just a visitor or a camper. The rich natural beauty of this place offers you the opportunity to tour its areas, observe the fauna of the area, and do various outdoor activities, always under the supervision of a ranger or naturalist.
The enviable facilities of the place include volleyball and tennis courts and bike and kayak rentals for the more adventurous types. All this and more is waiting for you in Gulf State Park, with a relatively low entrance fee.
Gulf State Park is considered one of the best tourist attractions in Alabama. Also, speaking of campers, the area has an exceptional location for all those families who will be camping and the choice of hotel, specifically the Hilton Hotel.
4. Golf courses
Gulf Shores offer several golf courses that enhance your leisure experience, providing a delightful opportunity for golf enthusiasts. Additionally, Gulf Shores also offer the option of miniature golf, ensuring that people of all ages can partake in enjoyable golf-related entertainment. Here are some famous golf courses:
- Pirate’s Island Adventure Golf
- Gulf Shores Golf Club
- Peninsula Golf and Racquet Club
- Kiva Dunes Golf Course
5. Beach flight experience
For those seeking thrilling aerial adventures, Gulf Shores is an ideal destination to embark on beach flights. Whether you prefer the excitement of a helicopter or the unique experience of a gyroplane, this location offers opportunities to take to the skies. Accompanied by skilled and experienced veteran pilots, you can join guided tours and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.
6. Gulf Shores fishing adventures
In Gulf Shores, several authorities provide fishing adventures, allowing travelers to partake in guided fishing trips. Fishing serves as an excellent and enjoyable activity for families, offering moments of fun and bonding. The experience of successfully catching a fish can be truly remarkable, providing a sense of fulfillment and excitement.
7. Hiking
Gulf Shores offers a range of exceptional hiking trails in its vicinity, including the renowned Fort Morgan Trail and Jeff Friend Trail. These trails have gained popularity among adventure enthusiasts and provide an opportunity for hiking enthusiasts to immerse themselves in nature’s beauty.
8. Beach activities
Gulf Shores offers a variety of beach activities for travelers to enjoy, such as kayaking, segway adventures, parasailing, paddleboarding, and taking part in cruise or boat tours. Select your preferred activities and indulge in leisurely enjoyment at Gulf Shores. You will love these tourist attractions in Alabama too.
Recommended tour packages:
- Dolphins and Wildlife Kayak Experience from Gulf Shores by Wild Native Tours
- Exploring Gulf Shores by Golf Cart Rental(including Orange Beach or Fort Morgan)
- 4 Hours Guided Charter Trip in Gulf Shores by Bama Bandit Sportfishing
Tourist pass:
- Gulf Shores Attraction Pass (including Orange Beach area)
Hotels near Gulf Shores, Alabama
Mobile Alabama attractions
1. USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park
This is the first one among the best Alabama attractions. This battleship of the second world war turned into a historic landmark in 1965. USS Alabama is an excellent recognizable symbol of the state of Alabama. Now, this attraction attracts millions as a unique military tourist spot.
2. Mobile Carnival Museum
There is a museum in Mobile, Alabama known as Mobile Carnival Museum. The interior of the mansion showcases a wide array of carnival-themed artifacts, including intricately adorned robes and antique Mardi Gras crowns. Tourists can buy this museum ticket and get a skip-the-line opportunity to enter.
3. Mobile Bay
This picturesque area on the state coastline is something extraordinary. An area that combines important leisure options but at the same time historic areas, attracting visitors throughout the year and locals in the surrounding areas.
In the Bay Area, you can visit Dauphin Island, which includes Fort Gaines, a site that played a significant role in the Battle of Mobile Bay in the past. This is one of the top tourist attractions in Alabama.
On the island lake, one can swim or admire the Audubon bird species. Heading to the east coast, you will also find the town of Fairhope, which is also a reasonably popular tourist destination.
4. Some more Mobile tourist attractions in Alabama
There are many more tourist spots in Mobile. Magnolia Grove Golf Course, Conde Charlotte Museum, GulfQuest – National Maritime Museum of the Gulf of Mexico, Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Dauphin Street, Bragg-Mitchell Mansion, Church Street Historic District and Richards DAR House Museum are very much popular among them.
Recommended tour packages:
- Downtown Mobile food tour by Bienville Bites Food Tour
- Mobile Let’s Roam Treasure Hunt: Parade Through Mobile! by Let’s Roam
- Experience Mobile through 24-Hour Slingshot Rental operated by Port City Slingshots
Tourist pass:
- Mobile City Multi-Attraction Pass
- Mobile Area Multi-Attraction Pass
Recommended hotels in Mobile, Alabama:
Huntsville Alabama attractions
1. US Space and Rocket Center
This is one of the best tourist attractions in Alabama. To get an awesome experience in life, US Space and Rocket Center is a must-see attraction for parents and children of all ages. The whole museum is enriched with fabulous exhibitions. If you decide to come here, it will be well worth your time and money.
2. U.S. Veterans Memorial Museum
The U.S. Veterans Memorial Museum stands as a world-renowned military museum. Its extensive collection of exhibits showcases a remarkable array of memorabilia, artifacts, and military equipment spanning from the American Revolutionary War to the present day. Among these treasures lies a significant assortment of rare and important items, including the esteemed Ford Pygmy, the oldest surviving jeep.
3. Huntsville Botanical Garden
Spanning 118 acres, the Huntsville Botanical Garden welcomes visitors throughout the year, offering a captivating blend of diverse ecosystems including meadows, upland and bottomland forests, and wetlands. Additionally, the garden showcases an array of specialty gardens and collections featuring native plants.
With ample space, the park allows you to find your own tranquil corner. Immerse yourself in the beauty of well-maintained trails, partake in delightful events, and encounter warm and friendly individuals. The garden’s seasonal events are making it an absolute must-visit for garden enthusiasts.
4. Madison County Nature Trail-Green Mountain
Situated atop Green Mountain in southeast Huntsville, the Nature Trail is a captivating park spanning 72 acres, inviting visitors to explore its natural wonders throughout the year. Designated as a Treasure Forest by the Alabama Forestry Commission, this scenic sanctuary is not only a park for all seasons but also serves as a cherished Wildlife Sanctuary, fostering a harmonious habitat for various wildlife species.
5. Huntsville Museum of Art
Ensure that you include a visit to the Huntsville Museum of Art on your next trip to Huntsville. The museum’s mission is to unite individuals with art by acquiring, preserving, exhibiting, and interpreting exceptional works of art, emphasizing the highest quality standards.
6. Burritt on the Mountain
The distinctive 1938 mansion belonging to Dr. William Henry Burritt. The Historic Park encompasses six genuine 19th-century homes that reflect the lifestyle prevalent in the Cumberland Plateau, complete with a blacksmith shop and various outbuildings. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Burritt Nature Trails provide an ideal hiking experience.
7. Some more Huntsville attractions:
- Monte Sano Nature Preserve
- Hays Nature Preserve
- Huntsville Madison County Veterans Memorial
- Land Trust of North Alabama
Things to do in Huntsville
- Civil Axe Throwing – Huntsville
- Visiting University Pickers
- Huntsville Ghost Walk
- The Vision Zip Line Tour
- The Downtown Dish- Huntsville Food Tour
- Forrest Paddle Boarding
Recommended tour packages:
- Huntsville Rocket City Smart Phone Self Guided Audio (GPS/APP) Walking Tour by WalknTours
- Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Huntsville by Zombie Scavengers by Zombie Scavengers Hunts
Tourist pass:
- Huntsville Multi-Attraction Pass (including North Alabama)
Suggested Hotels in Huntsville:
- Comfort Suites Huntsville Research Park Area
- Holiday Inn Express Huntsville Space Center
- Holiday Inn Huntsville Research Park
Montgomery tourist attractions in Alabama
Montgomery is the capital city of the state of Alabama in the USA. It played a significant role in the history of the United States. It was recognized as a highly regarded international tourist destination in 2018 by prestigious sources such as the New York Times, Matador Network, and Lonely Planet. Here is my list of top tourist attractions in Montgomery:
- Montgomery Visitors Center
- Legacy Museum
- Alabama Department of Archive and History
- Alabama State Capital
- Civil Rights Memorial Center
- National Memorial for Peace and Justice
- Rosa Parks Library and Museum
- Montgomery Indoor Shooting Complex
- Alabama Safari Park
- Dexter Parsonage Museum – Dr. Martin Luther King’s home
- First White House of the Confederacy
- Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts
- The F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum
Recommended tour packages:
- 3hr Private Driving Civil Rights Tour in Montgomery by Civil Rights Tours
- Sip-n-Cycle Pedal Cruise in Montgomery by Sip-n-Cycle Pedal Cruise
- Montgomery Civil Rights Walk of Freedom Self-Guided (GPS) Walking Tour by WalknTours
- 6 Hours Private Civil Rights Tour of Montgomery by Civil Rights Tours
More things to do
- Harriot II Riverboat experiencing
- Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Factory Tour
- 3Quest Challenge of Montgomery
Tourist pass:
Recommended hotels in Montgomery, Alabama
- Motel 6-Montgomery, AL – Coliseum
- Best Western Montgomery I-85 North Hotel
- Wingate by Wyndham Montgomery
- Hampton Inn and Suites Montgomery Downtown
- Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa at the Convention Center
Birmingham Alabama attractions
1. Birmingham Civil Rights Institute and the Civil Rights Historic District
The Civil Rights Movement, which took place in the 1960s on issues related to the problems of African American citizens, is one of the most historical movements to take place. Birmingham Civil Rights Institute was built to commemorate that incident. This is one of the great tourist attractions in Alabama.
By visiting the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, you will get a comprehensive picture of this movement, observing and studying hundreds of exhibits from the past that will inform you about the enormous conflicts that took place at that time.
The entire area of Birmingham’s Civil Rights District covers a total area of six square meters, which includes other attractions and attractions to admire, such as Kelly Ingram Park and the Carver Theater.
2. Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum
This museum is a paradise for motorcycle enthusiasts, offering a breathtaking display of the world’s largest collection of motorcycles and Lotus racecars. Alongside the impressive motorsports collection, the museum is also home to the Barber Advanced Design Center—a cutting-edge facility spanning 11,000 square feet, dedicated to innovation, creation, and design.
3. McWane Science Center
Experience a never-ending blend of fun and education at the McWane Science Center. This interactive destination celebrates the wonders of science, offering everything from an impressive dinosaur collection to innovative displays highlighting the environment, imaginative play areas for young children, and a mesmerizing aquarium.
The spirit of exploration and discovery comes alive through a diverse range of science demonstrations presented daily by talented educators, ensuring an engaging experience for all visitors.
4. Vulcan Park and Museum
Perched atop the Red Mountain, the largest cast-iron statue globally was crafted specifically for the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair. It now stands majestically, offering a stunning vista of downtown Birmingham. Within the Vulcan Center, visitors can explore an interactive museum that chronicles the rich historical timeline of the city of Birmingham.
5. Some more attractions to visit in Birmingham
- Birmingham Museum of Art
- Birmingham Botanical Gardens
- Kelly Ingram Park
- Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark
- Red Mountain Park
- Southern Museum of Flight
Recommended tour packages:
- Birmingham Civil Rights Tour by Red Clay Enterprises
- Birmingham Civil Rights Walk of Freedom Smartphone Audio App Tour Operated by WalknTours
- Experience Birmingham – The Historic Highlights by The Birmingham Historic Touring Company
More things to do in Birmingham
- Experiencing Civil Axe Throwing – Birmingham
- Visiting Jim Reed Books
- Golden Flake Company factory tour
Tourist Pass:
Recommended hotels in Birmingham, Alabama:
Tuscaloosa tourist attractions in Alabama
1. University of Alabama
The vast campus of the University of Alabama contains an art gallery, two museums, the home of Gorga (the University’s first president), and 50 acres of trees. During the Civil War, a part of the University was destroyed by arson.
Still, it was restored and reached the form we know today, including exhibits from the Museum of Natural History, which date back to the Ice Age and dinosaurs. It is an amazing place that pays homage to knowledge itself and history, with outstanding collections of exhibits and objects.
So you do not need to be a student of this University to visit its wondrous places. Visit the University of Tuscaloosa in your vehicle.
If you do not own a car, you can turn to the choice of a rental car from the company Enjoy Travel, which houses a store in the area, allowing you to move safely and efficiently in Tuscaloosa.
2. Mercedes-Benz US International Visitor Center/Museum
As the sole facility of its kind outside Germany, this visitor center boasts captivating exhibits showcasing the rich history of Mercedes-Benz, accompanied by exclusive tours of a manufacturing plant. Before visiting, make sure to check whether it is open or closed.
3. Jemison-Van de Graaff Mansion
This mansion was built between 1852 and 1862. It stands as one of Alabama’s final and most intricate grand residences constructed prior to the destructive American Civil War. Presently, the Jemison-Van de Graaff Mansion is a meticulously preserved historical museum that welcomes public tours and offers elegant spaces for event rentals.
4. More things to do in Tuscaloosa Al (Alabama)
- Experiencing Civil Axe Throwing – Tuscaloosa
- Visiting Bower’s Park Disc Golf Course
- Experiencing the Haunted Tuscaloosa Tours
- Visiting Lake Nicol
- Enjoy Tuscaloosa Riverwalk
Tourist pass:
Recommended hotels in Tuscaloosa, Alabama:
- Red Roof PLUS+ Tuscaloosa – University
- Best Western Catalina Inn
- Embassy Suites by Hilton Tuscaloosa Alabama Downtown
Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail
This is one of the top tourist attractions in Alabama state. If you’re a golf enthusiast and an avid traveler, welcome to the magnificent world of the Rebert Trent Jones Golf Trail. It is a collection of 11 stunning golf trail sites spread across Alabama, USA, offering golfers of all levels a unique and unforgettable experience.
Among them, Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at Grand National was voted the number 1 public golf facility in the United States of America by the readers of Golf World.
Why Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail?
Unparalleled Golfing Experience:
The Rebert Trent Jones Golf Trail boasts championship-level golf courses designed by the renowned golf course architect Rebert Trent Jones. Each course is meticulously crafted to provide a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels.
Diverse Locations:
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Rebert Trent Jones Golf Trail is the diversity of its locations. Spanning over 11 sites across Alabama, you can embark on an epic golfing journey that takes you from the mountains to the coast.
World-Class Facilities:
The Rebert Trent Jones Golf Trail is renowned for its exceptional facilities and top-notch amenities. From pro shops stocked with the latest golf gear to practice facilities that cater to both beginners and professionals, you’ll find everything you need to enhance your golfing experience.
Traveler-Friendly Accommodations:
To make your golfing adventure even more enjoyable, the Rebert Trent Jones Golf Trail offers a range of traveler-friendly accommodations. Whether you prefer staying in luxurious resorts or cozy lodges, there are options available near each golf course.
Easy Accessibility:
The Rebert Trent Jones Golf Trail is easily accessible, making it convenient for travelers from all over the world. The trail’s locations are well-connected by major highways and airports, allowing for smooth travel arrangements. Whether you choose to rent a car or utilize public transportation, getting to and around the golf trail is a breeze.
Beyond Golf:
While the Rebert Trent Jones Golf Trail is a golfer’s paradise, there’s more to explore beyond the fairways. It is steeped in rich history and culture, offering a plethora of attractions for travelers. You can also visit those tourist attractions in Alabama.
Trail list
- Grand National, Aubern/Opelika
- Hampton Cove, Huntsville
- Capitol Hill, Prattville
- Cambrian Ridge, Greenville
- Highland Oaks, Dothan
- The Shoals, Muscle Shoals
- Ross Bridge, Hoover
- Lakewood Club, Point Clear
- Magnolia Grove, Mobile
- Oxmoor Valley, Birmingham
- Silver Lakes, Anniston/Gadson
The guests can build their golf packages or choose special seasonal packages to experience. Different facilities are available for the guests.
Embarking on a golfing adventure along the Rebert Trent Jones Golf Trail is an experience like no other. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Alabama, challenge yourself on world-class golf courses, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Hotels near Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail:
Travelers/golfers can stay either in onsite resorts or hotels near the trail. Here is my recommended hotel list:
- Comfort Inn Birmingham Homewood
- Hilton Garden Inn Birmingham Lakeshoredrive
- Hampton Inn Greenville
- Home2 Suits by Hilton Prattville
- Courtyard by Marriott Dothan
Helpful info to make a successful visit to the tourist attractions in Alabama
Location of Alabama, USA
Here, I have added Google Maps so that you can know where Alabama is located, and how far it is from your place or country. Feel free to zoom in and zoom out on the map to identify your travel destinations.
How to get to Alabama
Alabama is a well-connected place in the USA. You can arrive there by air, rail or road. It has two international airports and some regional airports. One is Huntsville International Airport and the other is Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport. Famous airlines such as Southwest Airlines, American Airlines, and Delta Airlines operate flights there.
Amtrak operates the Crescent, a passenger train that runs from New York to New Orleans on a daily basis. This train makes scheduled stops at the stations in Anniston, Birmingham, and Tuscaloosa.
In Alabama, you will find rapid transit, commuter rail, taxicab, private autos, bicycles, and more services for the people. Choose any service that is suitable for you.
Visa to the USA
Before booking or processing a tour package to visit Alabama, it is advisable for foreigners to check the visa requirements for entry into the USA.
You can check the visa requirements on the IVISA website for free. They offer global online visa services and information help. The iVisa experts are available 24/7 to assist and guide you through the Nepal Visa on Arrival application process.
Tasks to pay attention before visiting Alabama
- Make your list of tourist attractions in Alabama.
- Create a list of activities you want to do.
- Find a suitable hotel based on your activity and attraction list.
- Book the tour packages you want to experience.
- Collect attraction passes if possible.
- Visit or experience the tourist attraction on time.
- Start the tour by visiting the local welcome center or tourism center.
Common tourist activities in Alabama
- Walking tour
- Museum and library tour
- Kayaking
- Fishing
- Playing golf
- Experiencing nature and wildlife
- Hiking
- Beach flight and helicopter tour
- Trip to historic sites
- Scavenger hunt tour
- Food tour
- Tour by transport rental
- Biking, quad biking, and segway tours
- Cave tour
- Cruise or boat tours
Get multi-attraction pass
What is a multi-attraction pass?
A multi-attraction pass, also known as a multi-pass or attraction pass, is a ticket or card that grants access to multiple tourist attractions or activities within a specific region or city. It is designed to provide convenience and cost savings for visitors who wish to explore and experience multiple attractions during their trip.
Alabama multi-attraction pass:
You can also buy multi-attraction passes for different places in Alabama. This pass will give you an opportunity of experiencing a selection of the best tourist attractions in Alabama all in one ticket. It is a nice way of exploring Alabama tourist sights. Tourists can book Alabama multi-attraction passes online.
Alabama Tourism Authority provides some more multi-attraction passes for travelers. You can also buy this by clicking on the link below:
- Anniston and East Central Alabama Multi-Attraction Pass
- East Alabama Family Fun Multi-Attraction Pass
- Auburn, Opelika, and Alexander City Multi-Attraction Pass
Some more tour packages in Alabama
- Nickajack Bat Cave Kayak Tour with Chattanooga Guided Adventures by Chattanooga Guided Adventures
- The Birmingham Ghost Walk – Hotels Churches and Riots Tour by The Birmingham Historic Touring Company
- Super City Birmingham Hop On Hop Off Driving App Tour by Freedom Line Tours
- Taste of Birmingham BBQ Guided Lunch Tour
- Wild Cave Adventure Tour by Sims Cave Park
Final thoughts
Overall, it is a state that combines all those principles, such as history, art, and culture, to turn it into a reasonably developed region. Explore Alabama through its beautiful natural attractions, sandy beaches, and lush parks to experience beautiful moments with your family.
This article ‘Best Tourist Attractions in Alabama’ is sent by Katy Nikolaou.