Alabama

Alabama is full of surprises, from cultural landmarks to stunning outdoor escapes. Here are some can’t-miss highlights:

• Relax on the Gulf Coast: Gulf Shores and Orange Beach offer miles of white sand, turquoise water, and seafood so good you’ll plan your next trip before you leave.

• Experience Civil Rights history: Visit Birmingham, Montgomery, and Selma to walk through powerful landmarks that shaped America’s story.

• Explore nature: Northern Alabama shines with waterfalls, scenic drives, and hiking trails in places like Little River Canyon and DeSoto State Park.

• Dive into culture: Check out Huntsville’s U.S. Space & Rocket Center, the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum, or the thriving arts scene in Florence and Fairhope.

• Eat everything: From white BBQ sauce to fried green tomatoes, banana pudding, and fresh Gulf seafood, Alabama’s food scene is rich, soulful, and unforgettable.

Getting There

Getting to Alabama is easy and convenient no matter where you’re coming from.

• By Air: Major airports include Birmingham (BHM), Huntsville (HSV), and Mobile (MOB).

• By Car: Alabama borders Tennessee, Georgia, Mississippi, and Florida—making it simple to include in a southern U.S. itinerary.

• By Train or Bus: Amtrak and regional buses connect a few major cities, though a car offers the most flexibility for exploring the state.

Travel Tips

Here are a few real-world takeaways from exploring Alabama firsthand:

• Eat the sauce. All the sauce. Alabama’s white BBQ sauce is not optional—it’s a rite of passage. Also, don’t leave without trying banana pudding somewhere that serves it out of a giant glass bowl.

• Pace yourself with the heat. Summer humidity is no joke. If you’re sightseeing in July, go early, hydrate like it’s your full-time job, and reward yourself with something cold and sweet after (preferably with “homemade” in the name).

• Stay a little longer than you think you need. I always find myself wishing for one more night—whether it’s to wander downtown Fairhope, catch a live band in Florence, or squeeze in one more Gulf sunset.

• Don’t underestimate small towns. Some of Alabama’s best gems are tucked away—think mountain cabins, farm-to-table restaurants, and locals who treat you like an old friend.

• Football weekends are chaos (in the best way). If you’re anywhere near Tuscaloosa or Auburn in the fall, expect packed hotels and tailgates that rival major holidays.

With a little planning (and a lot of snacks), you’ll see why Alabama is one of the South’s most underrated gems.

Getting Around

To see the best of Alabama, you’ll want a car. Many attractions are spread out, and the scenic routes are half the fun.

• Car Rental or Personal Vehicle: Highly recommended for flexibility.

• Public Transportation: Available in larger cities like Birmingham and Mobile, but limited elsewhere.

• Driving Tips: Roads are generally in great condition, but keep an eye out for slower local traffic or wildlife on rural roads.
  Plan your route around regions—coastal, central, and northern Alabama—to make the most of your time.