Excel AlabamaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Excel, Alabama.
1. Murphy Park
PEACEFUL WALKING TRAILS
Murphy Park offers a walking track in Excel that is easy to navigate and perfect for visitors of all ages. The park is especially great for parents with strollers or toddlers who need accessible paths. Visitors can enjoy the serene surroundings while getting some exercise on the well-maintained trails.
2. Whitley Lee Park
LOCAL RECREATIONAL SPACE
Whitley Lee Park serves as a community gathering spot for Excel residents and visitors. The park provides recreational facilities in a pleasant outdoor setting. Families often visit to enjoy picnics and outdoor activities throughout the year.
3. Old Monroe County Courthouse and Heritage Museum
HISTORIC GOVERNMENT BUILDING
The Old Monroe County Courthouse and Heritage Museum stands as a significant historical landmark near Excel. This government building has been converted into a heritage museum that preserves local history and culture. Visitors can explore exhibits that showcase the rich heritage of Monroe County and surrounding areas.
4. Truman Capote Historical Marker
LITERARY HISTORY SITE
The Truman Capote Historical Marker commemorates the famous author who spent part of his childhood in the area. Capote's connection to the region influenced his writing, including elements of his classic work 'To Kill a Mockingbird.' Literary enthusiasts often visit this marker to connect with an important piece of American literary history.
5. Gulf Shores Public Beach
PRISTINE COASTAL PARADISE
Gulf Shores Public Beach offers visitors a stunning combination of southern hospitality and beautiful shoreline with blue waters and white sand beaches. This beach is accessible to the public with only a seasonal parking fee required for visitors. Guests can relax to the sound of crashing waves while enjoying the sunshine and scenic coastal views.
6. U.S. Rocket and Space Center
SPACE EXPLORATION MUSEUM
The U.S. Rocket and Space Center in Huntsville showcases the innovations that have made America a leader in human space travel. Beyond traditional exhibits, the center offers unique experiences including flight simulations and multi-axis training that emulates the G-forces experienced by astronauts. Visitors can immerse themselves in the history and science of space exploration through interactive and educational displays.
7. Oak Mountain State Park
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE HAVEN
Oak Mountain State Park is Alabama's largest state park, offering extensive outdoor recreational opportunities for visitors. The park features hiking trails, fishing lakes, swimming areas, and horseback riding facilities spread across thousands of acres. Nature enthusiasts can spot various wildlife while enjoying the scenic beauty of the park's diverse landscapes.
8. Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
THE LITTLE ZOO
The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, often called 'The Little Zoo That Could,' houses over 500 exotic animals in a family-friendly environment. Visitors can enjoy up-close animal encounters and educational presentations throughout their visit. The zoo gained national attention after successfully evacuating all animals during Hurricane Ivan, showcasing their dedication to animal welfare.
9. USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park
HISTORIC MILITARY VESSEL
USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park features the impressive WWII battleship USS Alabama as its centerpiece attraction. Visitors can explore the massive warship along with other military vehicles, aircraft, and the USS Drum submarine. The park serves as both an educational resource and a tribute to veterans who served in various American military conflicts.
10. Moundville Archaeological Park
ANCIENT NATIVE AMERICAN SITE
Moundville Archaeological Park preserves the second-largest site of prehistoric Native American mounds in the United States. The park features 29 flat-topped earthen mounds arranged around a central plaza, once serving as the political and ceremonial center of a powerful Mississippian culture. Visitors can explore the museum containing artifacts and learn about the indigenous people who inhabited this important settlement between 1000 and 1450 AD.
11. Huntsville Botanical Garden
FLOWERING NATURAL WONDERLAND
The Huntsville Botanical Garden spans 112 acres featuring stunning plant collections, seasonal displays, and specialized gardens. Visitors can explore the nation's largest open-air butterfly house during summer months alongside aquatic, annual, and perennial gardens. The garden hosts popular seasonal events including the Galaxy of Lights during winter and the Spring Festival of Flowers.
12. Fort Morgan
CIVIL WAR COASTAL FORTRESS
Fort Morgan is a historic masonry star fort built between 1819 and 1833 to defend Mobile Bay. The fort played a significant role during the Civil War, including the famous Battle of Mobile Bay in 1864. Today, visitors can explore the fort's chambers, climb the walls for panoramic views of the Gulf, and learn about its military significance through exhibits and living history demonstrations.
13. Gaineswood
ANTEBELLUM ARCHITECTURAL MASTERPIECE
Gaineswood stands as one of America's finest examples of Greek Revival architecture and has been designated a National Historic Landmark. The mansion was built between 1843 and 1861 by General Nathan Bryan Whitfield, who designed much of the house himself despite having no formal architectural training. Visitors can tour the elegantly furnished rooms featuring original artifacts and experience the grandeur of antebellum Southern life.
14. Gulf State Park
COASTAL NATURAL WONDERLAND
Gulf State Park encompasses 6,500 acres of pristine coastal ecosystem with two miles of beautiful white sand beaches. The park offers numerous recreational activities including camping, fishing, hiking, biking along 28 miles of trails, and swimming in Lake Shelby. Visitors can stay at campgrounds or the park's lodge while enjoying the diverse habitats that support wildlife including alligators, deer, and numerous bird species.
15. Monte Sano State Park
MOUNTAIN OF HEALTH
Monte Sano State Park sits atop Monte Sano Mountain, offering spectacular views of the surrounding valley and city of Huntsville below. The park features over 22 miles of hiking and biking trails winding through forests filled with colorful wildflowers and interesting geological formations. Camping facilities include rustic CCC-built stone cabins, a campground with modern amenities, and picnic areas perfect for family outings.