Welcome to Alabama

Head to the heart of the Yellowhammer State for some Southern hospitality. Whether you’re in the forested hills of northern Alabama or on sandy shores in the south, you’ll feel the warm welcomes that come with the lower latitudes. That is, unless, you’re not a fan of the University of Alabama’s Crimson Tide football team or the Auburn University Tigers. From the Civil War to the Civil Rights Movement, Alabama is packed with history. And after you soak up the historical sights, you’ll be ready to soak up sun on the Gulf Coast.

’Bama’s Stellar Seaboard

Alabama’s sparkling southern seaboard runs 60 miles along the Gulf of Mexico, with sugar-white shores that rival Florida’s Emerald Coast. Quintessential beach activities abound in the colorful seaside towns of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Relax on the sands or hit the water. Dine on fresh seafood at a restaurant with views of white-crested waves. Head to Gulf State Park for golfing, kayaking, fishing and nature trails. Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge offers a quiet spot to explore the flora and fauna of the southern shore. For a perfect place to catch a sunset over infinite cerulean waters, head out to Dauphin Island for a once-in-a-lifetime ecotourism experience.

Steel, History and NASCAR

Since before the Civil War, iron and steel have brought wealth to Birmingham, which continues to thrive as Alabama’s largest city. Today, you’ll find a wealth of entertainment options, including the McWane Science Center, the Southern Museum of Flight and the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum and Park. Learn about jazz, sports, arts and more at the many museums that dot the town. The enlightening Civil Rights Institute provides insight into Alabama’s role in the Civil Rights Movement. To the east of Birmingham, Talladega hosts thrilling NASCAR competition.

The northern city of Huntsville is an out-of-this-world getaway. Space buffs won’t want to miss the U.S. Space and Rocket Center, where you can get an in-depth look at aerospace history and check out a number of massive rockets on display.

Hit the Links

A genteel garden tour offers a relaxing way to experience Alabama. With warm weather through much of the year, a number of plants thrive throughout the seasons. Walk the exquisite grounds of Bellingrath Gardens and Home in the southwest corner of the state. Explore over 900 acres of meticulous grounds and colorful blooms. An impressive mansion, built in 1935, is also open to visitors.

Alabama Bureau of Tourism & Travel

Alabama’s Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail links 26 courses across the state, offering some top-class parks with reasonable fees. Pick an area and hit the local links, or follow the complete trail for a statewide tour.