Section AlabamaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Section, Alabama.
1. Weathington Park
SCENIC RIVER OVERLOOK
Weathington Park is one of Alabama's best-kept secrets, offering beautiful views of the Tennessee River, especially at sunset. The park features lush lawns, vibrant flowerbeds, and a variety of walking trails that wind through its scenic landscape. Perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers, the park provides ample opportunities for relaxation and recreation.
2. Dismals Canyon
BIOLUMINESCENT NATURAL WONDER
Dismals Canyon is a beautiful sandstone gorge nestled in northwest Alabama, worth visiting just for the stunning views. The canyon is one of the few places on earth where bioluminescent insects known as Dismalites live, emitting their otherworldly blue-green light. Visitors can witness this magical phenomenon during special night tours offered at the site.
3. Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark
INDUSTRIAL HISTORY SITE
Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark is a unique site rising into the skyline of Birmingham that was originally put into operation in 1882 to produce pig iron until 1971. Today, it serves both as a living museum and an events space where visitors can learn about America's metal industry history. Visitors can participate in hands-on metal crafting classes, educational programs, and various festivals at this historic site.
4. Gulf Shores Public Beach
PRISTINE COASTAL GETAWAY
Gulf Shores Public Beach is a popular coastal destination featuring pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and various water sports in this beautiful Gulf of Mexico setting. The beach area offers convenient amenities including restrooms, showers, and nearby dining options for a perfect day by the sea.
5. U.S. Rocket and Space Center
SPACE EXPLORATION MUSEUM
The U.S. Rocket and Space Center in Huntsville showcases America's achievements in space exploration with an impressive collection of rockets, spacecraft, and artifacts. Visitors can experience interactive exhibits, simulator rides, and educational programs about the history and future of space travel. The center serves as the official visitor center for NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center and is a must-visit destination for science and space enthusiasts.
6. Oak Mountain State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Oak Mountain State Park is Alabama's largest state park, spanning over 9,940 acres of natural beauty with hiking trails, lakes, and recreational facilities. Visitors can enjoy activities including fishing, swimming, camping, mountain biking, and horseback riding throughout the year. The park also features a wildlife rehabilitation center where visitors can learn about and observe native Alabama wildlife.
7. Bankhead National Forest
WILDERNESS AND WATERFALLS
Bankhead National Forest encompasses over 180,000 acres of wilderness featuring stunning waterfalls, hiking trails, and diverse ecosystems. The forest is home to the Sipsey Wilderness, Alabama's first and largest federally designated wilderness area known for its old-growth forests and sandstone bluffs. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing in this natural treasure.
8. Natural Bridge Park
ANCIENT GEOLOGICAL FORMATION
Natural Bridge Park features a spectacular 148-foot sandstone arch that stands as the longest natural bridge east of the Rocky Mountains. This 85-million-year-old geological wonder is surrounded by tranquil woodland trails and picnic areas for visitors to enjoy. The park offers a unique glimpse into Alabama's ancient geological history in a peaceful natural setting.
9. Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame
MUSICAL HERITAGE MUSEUM
The Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame celebrates the state's rich jazz heritage and honors musicians who have made significant contributions to this American art form. Located in the historic Carver Theatre, the museum features exhibits, memorabilia, and educational displays about jazz legends with Alabama connections. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits and occasionally enjoy live performances in this cultural institution.
10. Cathedral Caverns State Park
UNDERGROUND NATURAL WONDER
Cathedral Caverns State Park features an immense cave system known for having one of the largest commercial cave entrances in the world at 126 feet wide and 25 feet high. Inside, visitors can marvel at spectacular formations including a massive stalagmite column called Goliath, measuring 45 feet tall and 243 feet in circumference. Guided tours take visitors through illuminated pathways to witness frozen waterfalls, flowstones, and an extensive collection of stalagmites and stalactites.
11. Lake Guntersville State Park
LAKESIDE RECREATION AREA
Lake Guntersville State Park spans 6,000 acres of woodland alongside Alabama's largest lake, offering spectacular views and outdoor activities. The park features a modern lodge, restaurant, convention facilities, campgrounds, and cabins for overnight stays. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, hiking, bird watching (especially for bald eagles in winter), and golfing at the 18-hole championship course.
12. Russell Cave National Monument
PREHISTORIC ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE
Russell Cave National Monument preserves one of the oldest known human habitation sites in the Eastern United States, used continuously for over 10,000 years. The cave's entrance provided shelter for prehistoric peoples from the Archaic, Woodland, and Mississippian periods. Visitors can explore the museum, take guided tours, and walk nature trails while learning about the daily lives of early North American inhabitants.
13. Unclaimed Baggage Center
UNIQUE SHOPPING DESTINATION
The Unclaimed Baggage Center is a one-of-a-kind retail store that purchases and resells unclaimed luggage from airlines across the country. Spread across a 50,000-square-foot facility, shoppers can discover everything from clothing and electronics to musical instruments and sports equipment at bargain prices. This unique shopping destination attracts visitors from around the world looking to find unexpected treasures and unusual souvenirs.
14. Top O' The River Restaurant
FAMOUS CATFISH DINING
Top O' The River Restaurant is a beloved local institution famous for its fresh catfish, hushpuppies, and Southern hospitality. The rustic waterfront establishment offers panoramic views of Lake Guntersville while serving generous portions of Southern classics. Diners particularly enjoy the complimentary coleslaw and cornbread that begin each meal, making this a must-visit dining destination in the area.
15. High Falls Park
MAJESTIC WATERFALL SHOWCASE
High Falls Park features a magnificent 35-foot waterfall cascading into a swimming hole, surrounded by picturesque rock formations and natural beauty. The park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for swimming during warmer months when water levels permit. Visitors can also explore the historic covered bridge that spans Town Creek, adding to the scenic charm of this natural attraction.