One of the Southern states that is well worth visiting this fall is Alabama. While at first thought it might not be the most popular tourist destination in the region, it does have features which make it an excellent vacation destination! One of the best things about Alabama is the weather in the fall: While much of the rest of the country is bracing for winter’s fury, those in ‘Bama can relax, knowing that September and part of October will be characterized by highs in the 80s and cooler nights. The humidity has lessened by this time of the year, and there are quite a few fun things to do in the region. Whether you live in the Southeast and want to take a long weekend to explore somewhere new, or you’re heading down for a week or more, here are some things to do in Alabama this fall:
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Rolltide! You can’t go to Tuscaloosa, Alabama (or anywhere in the surrounding cities) without getting into the team spirit of the Crimson Tide! The football team of the University of Alabama is much-loved around these parts, and you might as well get swept away in the fun. Home games coming up include matches against the Colorado State Rams on September 21; the Ole Miss Rebels on September 28; the Georgia State Panthers on October 5; and the Arkansas Razorbacks on October 19. Pick up your crimson fan tshirts and flags, and get ready for some football!
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Alabama Festivals The southerners know good food, and those in Alabama are absolutely no exception! You’ll want to arrive hungry for some of these events. Decatur’s Riverfest Barbecue Cook-off takes place September 14. You can watch professional and amateur teams grill all sorts of specialties, and you benefit by getting to taste some great barbecue. Head over to Bayou La Batre if you’re in the mood to support local fishermen at the Taste of the Bayou. These chefs use fresh seafood from the surrounding waters. If you find yourself in Birmingham in mid-October, check out Break ‘n Bread, a community event designed to allow foodies to taste the wares of various local restaurateurs. There will also be a farmers’ market and plenty of local brews to sip if you get thirsty.
- Fall Foliage While you might not think about fall foliage and Alabama going together, they absolutely do! From late October to early November, you can see beautiful displays of autumnal beauty in northern Alabama. As the season progresses, the color will gradually move downstate. Check out Oak Mountain State Park in Pelham, Monte Sano State Park in Huntsville, and Noccalula Park in Gadsden/Etowah County.
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Visiting Alabama will allow you to enjoy the slower pace of life, gorgeous scenery, and friendly people. Have you been to Alabama in the fall? Tell us about your favorite things to do this time of year!
