The Most Quaint and Beautiful Small Towns to Visit in Alabama

Alabama is easily one of the most underrated states to visit, but it’s one that you must add to your next cross-country road trip. There’s natural beauty, friendly people, and many adorable towns that offer a lot of joy and wonder for families. Many of these cities have been around for decades, and they combine old-world charm with current day fun. We have 20 small towns on this list and many of them deserve a spot on your vacation bucket list. We’ve already told you about the most historically significant sights to see in the state. Today, we’ll show you the most quaint and beautiful small towns to visit in Alabama.

Magnolia Springs

First on our list of the small towns to visit in Alabama is the picturesque Magnolia Springs. This town is loaded with national landmarks, from St. Paul’s Episcopal Church to Moore’s Grocery, and you can visit them today. The town is also famous for its beautiful streets which are lined with Magnolia trees and various watery springs that are truly gorgeous. Plus, the town is only a few miles away from the unforgettable Gulf State Park. There are plenty of beaches where you can sit and relax. One of the best attractions in this quaint town is the Hot Air Balloon Company, where you get the opportunity to fly high above Magnolia Springs. At dinner time, you can stop by Jesse’s Restaurant where you can eat out in the garden. It’s quite romantic. You can do any of these fun activities or just walk down the streets and enjoy the splendor of this small town.

Mooresville

One of the most quaint and beautiful small towns to visit in Alabama is Mooresville, which holds a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. Mooresville is the true definition of a small town, as it only has 47 residents as of the time of this writing. However, it’s quite picturesque. It’s so memorable that the Disney movie “Tom and Huck” was filmed there. There’s amazing beauty to see in Mooresville, including the Tennessee River and the nearby Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge. You can hike, swim, and kayak to your heart’s desire. When you visit, you can stay at the lovely Stagecoach Inn and Tavern, where the hospitality is top-notch. For a snack, visit Dogwood & Magnolia, where you can get great treats, including their world-famous cinnamon rolls. Make sure to mark this town on your map. There’s so much to discover. You may never want to leave.

Guntersville

In addition to filling your heart with joy, a visit to Guntersville will also make you feel incredibly patriotic. That’s because this is one of the towns where gorgeous bald eagles stop during their yearly migration trips. Beyond that, there are other fun things to do, including visiting the many parks and ponds. Check out Lake Guntersville State Park and take a hike. Then, you can learn a few things by visiting The Guntersville Museum. While here, you can learn about the Native American history of the past and sneak a peek inside a 1936 military armory. Other fun things to do include riding down a biplane at Screaming Eagle Adventures, watching a show at The Whole Backstage Theater, and hitting some balls at Gunter’s Landing Golf Course. While there, you can stay at a hotel or go rustic and stay in a cabin near the lake. Either way, you’re in for a good time.

Greenville

Greenville is a lovely small town in Alabama that’s truly gorgeous. As you walk the main streets, you’ll see that many of them are lined with camellia flowers. That’s because Greenville is officially known as “The Camellia State.” You can really see the beauty by walking through the historical district, where there are many Victorian-era homes and plenty of nice people to say hello to along the way. The area is so nice that it has been the location of many films, including “Sweet Home Alabama,” and it’s easy to see why. Greenville is also home to various festivals, which can be a lot of fun if you visit at the right time. Go in August for the Watermelon Jubilee, in March for the Alabama Medieval Fantasy Festival, or in September for the Butler County Fair. Each festival has a lot of charm and experiences you won’t soon forget.

Fairhope

Located one hour from the Mobile Regional Airport is Fairhope, is the next entry on our list of the small towns to visit in Alabama. In addition to having a lovely name, Fairhope is a waterfront town located in Baldwin County. It’s a very laid-back location with pleasant streets and very friendly residents. They’re retirees, vacationers, and other calm folks. Head to the downtown area, and you’ll have your pick of many eateries, bistros, shops, and galleries. Go for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and you will always have something tasty to eat. There are also plenty of chances to learn new things by stopping by the Eastern Shore Arts Center or the Fairhope Museum of History. Fairhope is a great place for parents, children, and everyone in between.

Cullman

Just a stone’s throw away from the Huntsville International Airport is the adorably quaint small town of Cullman. This place offers many of the delights of a small town that was built upon agrarian and German roots. That means there are plenty of fun shops and restaurants to enjoy. Head to the Busy Bee Cafe to try some of the finest schnitzel in the state. There are also many great breakfast places in town. You can learn more about the German settlers by visiting the wonderful Cullman County Museum. It’s a really neat place with tons to discover, and it’s actually modeled after the home of town founder John Cullman. After that, visit the Cullman City Hall and the Cullman Railroad Depot. When you’re looking for lodgings, consider staying at the world-famous Cullman House.

Valley

It’s a bit of a drive from the Atlanta International Airport, but if you want to see what life was like during the textile boom of the 1980s, then head to Valley. This place was the center of commerce during that time, so you can take in a lot of history during your stay. Another one of the highlights of Valley, Alabama is the majestic Lake Harding. It’s a huge 5,850 acre recreational area where you and your family can lounge, swim, or camp. If you love military history, head to Fort Tyler, where the soldiers were responsible for protecting the Chattahoochee Bridge during the Civil War. Finally, bring the kids to the New Horizon Theatre. Throughout the year, there are great performances, from sing-alongs to dramas to Disney shows. Complete your visit by eating at Terri’s Mill Village Cafe for a great meal.

Tuscumbia

One of the larger small towns to visit in Alabama is Tuscumbia, which is part of a cluster of other picturesque small towns. This lovely place was founded back in 1816. One of its most significant claims of fame is that it was the birthplace of highly influential Helen Keller. While you’re in town, you can visit her childhood home, which is called Ivy Green, and it’s now a museum. Other hot spots in Tuscumbia include the Alabama Music Hall of Fame and the Muscle Shoals Sound Studio. Walk down the lovely streets of Tuscumbia, and you’ll also see many natural wonders. There’s the Cane Creek Canyon Nature Preserve, Spring Park with its lovely waterfalls, and other hot spots. If you want to learn a few things, stop by the Tuscumbia Railroad Depot Museum, Helen Keller Public Library, or the Tennessee Valley Museum of Art. At the end of the night, grab a bite to eat at the famous Rattlesnake Saloon.

Gulf Shores

If you want to combine the beauty of small-town Alabama with the wonder of the ocean, then add Gulf Shores to your travel list. Situated along the Gulf of Mexico, Gulf Shores allows you and your family the chance to sit, relax, or walk by the seaside. There are many seaside parks to visit, including Gulf State Park. You can also check out the sea turtles at the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge. Many other exciting animals can be found at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. Finally, you can also get your historical fix by visiting Fort Morgan and the Baldwin Heritage County Museum. With a relatively small population, Gulf Shores is a small town, but it packs in a lot of fun.

Spanish Fort

For something truly historic, take a vacation in Spanish Fort, Alabama. In addition to being a quaint small town, Spanish Fort is also a former military barracks that was used during both the American Civil War and American Revolutionary War. This is the best place to go if you love exploring because you can see wild animals at the WildNative Delta Safaris or discover natural beauty at Meaher State Park. Then, head into the ruins of what used to be the town of Blakeley, which was destroyed during a battle of the past. Finally, you can walk onto the USS Alabama. It was an actual warship during World War II. Then, check out the USS Drum submarine. Spanish Fort is also home to great restaurants, shops, and family entertainment.

Mentone

The amazing small town of Mentone is much more than your typical city. This town, with a population of 323, is located at the top of Lookout Mountain, which is the highest elevation in the entire state. That means you can enjoy amazing views of valleys and waterfalls. One of them, DeSoto Falls, is 104 feet tall. If you love what you see, you can stay up there in one of the cabins at DeSoto State Park. Of course, there’s a lot more to do as you walk the streets of Mentone. You can check out the crafts available at the Log Cabin Craft Village or go to the White Elephant Antiques Gallery, where you’ll find quirky gifts. If you get hungry, you can visit the Wildflower Cafe, where you can get a tasty meal and listen to live jazz music. The beauty of Mentone is completed with two lovely churches where you can pray and see stunning architecture.

Vestavia Hills

Located outside of Birmingham, Vestavia Hills is a great residential city that offers a variety of things to do, including a chance to visit the Shades Mountains, where you can go skiing and snowboarding. Nature fans will get a kick out of the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. This small town is also home to the world-famous Vulcan Statue, which is the largest cast iron statue on the planet. Don’t forget to stop by the Temple of Sibyl. It’s a recreation of Tivoli’s Temple of Sibyl, which is found outside of Rome. It was built by former mayor George Ward. It’s the city’s claim to fame and it should not be missed. This is a small town with a lot to discover.

Athens

If you’re looking for something really unique, add Athens to your list of small towns to visit in Alabama. This place is among the very oldest towns in all of Alabama, so it’s loaded with history and character. Located about 30 minutes from the Huntsville International Airport, you’ll feel safe walking among the streets and soaking in the beauty of it all. One of your stops must be Athens Courthouse Square, which has an old-time feel but many shops and restaurants, including ice cream shops where you can get a cone on the hot summer days. Plan your visit accordingly, and you can go during the town’s many cultural events and parades. There’s nothing like sitting under the dogwood trees as you watch the excitement. Spend some time in this small town and you can see many adorable homes that were built way back in the 1800s. Add Athens to your bucket list for sure.

Florence

If you’re traveling around northwest Alabama, plan a stop at the small town of Florence. Coming here is like stepping back in time. The town sits alongside a river, so there are plenty of fun activities you can try, from swimming to fishing. The town also has an old-timey appeal. There is an old soda fountain, historic buildings built in the style of days past, and many tasty restaurants and fun shops. If you love history and music, you can also stop by the W.C. Handy Museum and Library and see many of his old instruments and pieces of musical history. There are also many great hotels in the area that offer classic charm and modern amenities. During the evenings, take a stroll down Main Street and soak in the sights and ambiance. This is truly like living the simple life.

Orange Beach

Orange Beach is the place to go to see sparkling sand and waves. You and the kids will never get bored as there’s always something to do. There are chances for boating, kayaking, and riding jet skis. Next, sign up to take a dolphin cruise. You can also spend hours exploring. There are many different sandbar islands where you can see sea life or just sit back and soak up the rays. If you want to see the whole community at once, you can also sign up for helicopter tours. The great thing about being near the water is that you can have amazing seafood, and you can get it at Big Fish Restaurant & Bar or go fishing and catch your dinner yourself. There are also fun activities for the kids, including the Adventure Island Amusement Park and a waterfront playground. Plan a week-long vacation at this destination.

Decatur

A short drive away from the Huntsville International Airport, Decatur, Alabama is a great location in the Tennessee River Valley. Decatur is a nice place to go if you just want to relax. However, it’s even better if you love playing in the water. If you do, head to Point Mallard Park, where you can engage in many forms of play. You can ride the tubes, go down water slides, take your chances on the speed slide, or just sit on the beach. If you want to try to see some wildlife, you can spend a couple of days exploring the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge, which is a stunning 35,000 acres. After you’ve explored every acre, you can learn more about nature and the world by visiting Cook’s Natural Science Museum. Get a room at the fantastic Cozy Bungalow and make it a small-town visit you won’t soon forget.

Fort Payne

Located about an hour from the Chattanooga Airport, Fort Payne is the county seat of DeKalb County, and it has a lot to offer. Fort Payne is located amidst the Appalachian Mountains, so you can hike, explore, and enjoy the scenic beauty. Head up to Lookout Mountain to get the best view. Make sure to bring your camera. For even more natural beauty, head to nearby DeSoto State Park and Little River Canyon National Preserve. Once you’ve seen that, head to the other attractions in Fort Payne, such as the Fort Payne Opera House, the Alabama Fan Club, and the Museum, as well as the many shops that offer antiques for sale. This town is surely one of the most gorgeous in the entire country.

Dauphin Island

Dauphin Island is one of the essential stops on your list of small towns to visit in Alabama. This small town has less than 1,700 people as of the time of this writing. It’s an actual island, and it’s one of five that sit next to Alabama and Mississippi. The island is just 15 miles long, but it packs in a lot of fun. If you love white, sandy beaches, this is the place to be. You have many options when you visit Dauphin Island. You could sit or lay on the beach for a week straight and love every minute. Or, you could rent a bike and enjoy the extent of the island. You can also go bird watching since the island has 420 different species. There’s also the option to take a charter boat to a different island. For a history boost, visit Fort Gains, which has been around since 1821. Go there and learn about its significance in the Civil War. There’s a ton to do on this little island.

Marion

Marion is a gorgeous town but it’s also an important town. It’s the location of the Alabama Women’s Hall of Fame, which includes names like Hellen Keller, Rosa Parks, and Mother Angelica, among others. Visit the HOF and learn a lot about these amazing women. You can continue to expand your mind by visiting the The Judson Female Institute, Marion Military Institute, and Alabama Military Hall of Honor. You can then go bird watching and enjoy the natural beauty of Marion by taking a stroll through Barton Beach and Barton’s Beach Cahaba River Preserve. While you’re walking along the water, you may see one of Marion’s other claims of fame, which is the many beavers that can be seen building their dams. Just beware that you may also see snakes and alligators. Still, Marion is a nice, quaint town that you should visit.

Bayou La Batre

Our final lovely small town is Bayou La Batre. This quaint town with the lovely name is a tiny fishing village that’s hidden amongst a bustling metropolis. This is the oldest town in all of Mobile County, so there’s a lot to discover. You can still go fishing or enjoy a hike around the town. If anything looks familiar, it may be because Bayou La Batre has been featured in many blockbuster films, including “Forrest Gump” and “Pirates of the Caribbean.” Walk down the streets and you’ll feel like you’re part of your favorite movies. Go for the scenery but stay for the seafood. If you’re there for a few days, eat at the Lighthouse Restaurant and then go to the Bayou Seafood Company. You can also venture out of the town and visit many of the local attractions that are right outside of town, including the Dauphin Island Marina, Indian Shell Mound Park, and the Fort Morgan State Historic Site.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Allard One/Shutterstock.com.