Alabama

Adventure across the state

Words by Victoria Donato

From the shoals in North Alabama to the sugar-white beaches on the Gulf Coast, there is so much to stop, see, and splash around in. We’ve gathered all of our must-visit destinations to help you cool off in Alabama this summer!

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Waterfalls: Alabama has a gorgeous array of waterfalls—many located in state parks and nature preserves across the state. Little River Falls is a must-see in Fort Payne that provides picture-perfect views. Noccalula Falls cascades 90 feet over the Lookout Mountain ledge into a lush ravine, while Turkey Foot Falls is located in the Sipsey Wilderness known as “The Land of a Thousand Waterfalls.” Each of these and more are a part of the North Alabama Waterfall Trail.

Lake Martin: This scenic reservoir has over 750 miles of wooded shoreline, and it offers everything you need to have fun by the water during any season. There are tons of restaurants, places to swim and soak up the sun, hike, and so much more. 

Gulf State Park: Located  in Gulf Shores, the park has two miles of sugar-white beaches. It also has a beach pavilion with a snack bar, restaurants, a fishing area, and a 1,540 foot pier. The Park also has biking, walking, and hiking trails to enjoy. 

Eat

SpringHouse: Enjoy an upscale dining experience on Lake Martin. It has sophisticated cuisine while celebrating local and homegrown products. While dining, you will experience locally sourced vegetables, seafood, signature cocktails, and delicious desserts. 

Felix’s Fish Camp: Located on Mobile Bay, the sunsets during dinner steal the show. The restaurant serves amazing seafood and has local music performed at the Boat House Bar. 

Fisher's at Orange Beach Marina: Here, you can check out two restaurants under one roof—each devoted to creating mouthwatering cuisine that complements the two waterfront dining experiences. 

Stay

The Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort and Spa: Located in Birmingham, the resort is surrounded by the natural beauty and the lush landscape of the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail championship golf course. This resort hotel has an amazing family-friendly pool that would be great for any vacation.

The Marriott Shoals Hotel and Spa: Located in Florence adjacent to the Tennessee River, the hotel is near the historic Muscle Shoals that boast producing some of the most famous recording artists. You can always take a dip in the luxurious outdoor pool or swim laps in the indoor pool.

The Grand Hotel Marriott Resort, Golf Club & Spa, Autograph Collection: Located on the water of the Mobile Bay in Point Clear, you can enjoy tons of water activities on the man-made beach on the resort grounds. The hotel also has a family-friendly pool with a slide and waterfall as well as an adult-only pool for the grown-ups to relax in.