Visit Alabama’s unforgettable towns for a full Southern experience. The state is home to a variety of historic small towns that offer unforgettable scenery, small-town charm, and unique experiences. From historic coastal communities to beautiful small towns, each destination has its own unique character and charm to discover. Trek to the top of Cheaha Mountain, the state’s tallest mountain, or take a tour of U.S. military ruins at Battleship Alabama Memorial Park. No matter your interests, small towns in Alabama have something for everyone and will leave you with a great experience.
fairhope
Located on the eastern shore of Mobile Bay, Fairhope is home to a vibrant community, art, and stunning views of small-town Alabama. Fairhope Avenue is known for its shops, cafes, and delicious seafood restaurants. Eastern Shore Art Center is the heart of the arts community. With exhibits showcasing portraits, landscapes, and more, local art is a must-stop place to witness the community. You can also enjoy beautiful views of Fairhope as you watch the sunset while standing on the historic Fairhope Pier. Likewise, a stroll along Fairhope Beach will give you a breath of fresh sea breeze before a night on the town. The Fairhope Historical Museum, once used as City Hall and a jail, provides visitors with an overview of Fairhope’s unique history.
Daphne
![Bayfront Park Pavilion in Daphne, Alabama.](https://www.worldatlas.com/r/w768/r/w960-q80/upload/74/e7/23/bayfront-park-pavilion-in-daphne-alabama-at-sunset.jpeg)
Daphne offers a variety of unforgettable experiences and has also settled on the shores of Mobile Bay. This wonderful town is home to historic Bayfront Park, with nature trails, birdlife, alligators, and even a historic cemetery. Battleship Alabama Memorial Park, which showcases American military history, is a 15-minute drive from Daphne. Marvel at the 5,000-ton battleship Alabama and various other U.S. military artifacts. Tucked away in an old church is the Daphne History Museum. Daphne’s rich history is fascinating, dating back to his 1763.
Leesburg
![View of Weiss Lake from Lookout Mountain near Leesburg, Alabama.](https://www.worldatlas.com/r/w768/upload/5c/69/a1/shutterstock-1605066580.jpg)
Leesburg is a quiet and aesthetically pleasing town with a population of 913 located in Cherokee County. Leesburg offers a welcoming community with historical and cultural charm. Leesburg’s local farmers market offers fresh produce, home-made crafts, and local products. A great way to explore the local community. Weiss Lake Dam on the Coosa River is another historic site worth visiting. This engineering marvel was built by him in the late 1950s and was one of his first in Alba. Cherokee Rock Village is a great place to go out and you can also do some rock climbing at Lookout Mountain. Leesburg also has a number of barbecue-style restaurants serving authentic Alabama cuisine.
company
![Bol Weevil Monument in Enterprise, Alabama. Image credit: TampAGS, AGS Media, via Wikimedia Commons.](https://www.worldatlas.com/r/w768/r/w960-q80/upload/85/bb/0d/boll-weevil-monument-alabama-historical-marker.jpeg)
Enterprise, Alabama is a historic and beautiful town located in southeastern Alabama. It is known for its friendly residents, welcoming atmosphere, and beautiful scenery, making it a unique and charming place. An interesting fact about Enterprise is that it is the only place in the world with statues of agricultural insects. The Boll Weevil Monument was dedicated to the insect that helped grow the local economy. Because of this insect, farmers began growing peanut crops in large quantities. Today, this Peanuts legacy is celebrated with nearby events such as the annual Peanuts Festival. After exploring Enterprise’s unique history, a must-see is the sunset over Soroko Lake. Get back to nature and admire the 640-acre park, which boasts a public beach, boating, swimming, and camping.
northport
![Old railroad bridge in Northport, Alabama.](https://www.worldatlas.com/r/w768/upload/4f/ce/05/shutterstock-2255824063.jpg)
This scenic town has some of the best views in Alabama and features brick-lined streets that wind through its historic downtown area. Many local boutiques carry great clothing, as well as local Southern-style food. Brown Bag Restaurant is known for its famous local cuisine. Additionally, Van de Graaf Arboretum’s outdoor activities include walking trails, gardens, and historic bridges. A tranquil destination for nature lovers and those seeking a relaxing vacation. Kentuck Arts Center is known for celebrating the diversity of our region, features local creativity, and has a rich history spanning 52 years.
mountain brook
![Photo courtesy of Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce.](https://www.worldatlas.com/r/w768/r/w960-q80/upload/9a/f2/3e/mt-brook.jpg)
Mountain Brook is a historic town located in Alabama. Mountain Brook is known for combining the vibrant culture of a big city with the charm of a small town. Mountain Brook is home to some of Alabama’s most stylish boutiques, making it the perfect place to shop. The Grand Bohemian Hotel in Mountain Brook offers luxury and affordable accommodations. Visit a local art gallery and admire a variety of art. A great way to get some fresh air is to visit Birmingham Botanic Gardens, a vast garden with a variety of themes. With its rose garden, Japanese garden, and tropical greenhouse, it’s a great place for a walk. Another significant and important destination is the Birmingham, Alabama Civil Rights Institute. This museum depicts the struggles of Alabama’s civil rights movement in the 1950s and 1960s.
athens
![A church in Athens, Alabama. Image credit: Nytend, Public Domain, via Wikimedia Commons.](https://www.worldatlas.com/r/w768/r/w960-q80/upload/27/5d/f3/athens-first-methodist-church.jpg)
Named after an ancient Greek city, Athens has a rich history dating back to 1818. This scenic town has much to offer for history buffs, foodies, and adventurers alike. One way to start is by walking along the tree-lined streets, enjoying the views and his well-preserved architecture dating back to the 1800s. Local eateries are known for cooking classic Southern cuisine and traditional comfort food, and local favorites are sure to satisfy. Be sure to visit the nature trails at Big Spring Memorial Park. The park contains a spring that was the primary water source for the area’s first settlers. Finally, be sure to visit the Alabama Veterans Museum. Displays Alabama’s military history and celebrates the contributions of veterans at the Alabama Veterans Museum.
jasper
![Downtown Jasper, Alabama.](https://www.worldatlas.com/r/w768/r/w960-q80/upload/5e/01/0e/downtown-jasper-alabama-lccn2010640152.jpg)
The historic town of Jasper was once one of the world’s leading coal producers. The town grew significantly during his late 1800s and was considered a boom town. Today, you can still visit old Jasper in its parks, museums, and downtown historic district. Much of Jasper’s natural beauty is located on the shores of Walker County Lake. This lake is known as a treasure trove of fish and attracts many anglers from all over the country. But the lake is also a great place for picnics and barbecues, swimming, and hiking with friends and family. A great way to learn about Jasper’s history is to visit the historic Bankhead House & Heritage Center. The facility features historical artifacts, stories, and exhibits that tell the history of the area. Finally, reconnect with nature at the William B. Bankhead National Forest near Jasper. This forest is dotted with stunning waterfalls, so it’s worth bringing your camera.
Wetumpka
![Small businesses line Company Street in the historic district of Wetumpka, Alabama. Editorial credit: JNix / Shutterstock.com](https://www.worldatlas.com/r/w768/r/w960-q80/upload/43/8a/e7/wetumpka-alabama-small-businesses.jpg)
This must-see small town is located on the banks of the Coosa River. Downtown Wetumpka is a big draw thanks to the many movies that have been made in this charming town. When visiting downtown, don’t miss “Alabama’s Cutest Street” when visiting Company Street. This street has beautiful views and is also lined with boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. A scenic boat cruise on the Harriott II Riverboat is another great activity he says you can enjoy near Wetumpka.. We offer a variety of cruises that include sightseeing and dinner, giving you a unique perspective on the Coosa River. One of the main attractions is the Wetumpka Impact Crater. This crater was formed 85 million years ago when a meteorite impact left behind a crater about 8 miles wide. This small town is a must-see destination.
Oxford
![Fountains and gazebo late afternoon at Oxford Lake Park, Oxford, Alabama. Editorial credit: JNix / Shutterstock.com](https://www.worldatlas.com/r/w768/upload/a4/4f/e0/shutterstock-2112913388.jpg)
Oxford, Alabama is an unforgettable small town that leaves a lasting impression on its visitors. Just 15 minutes from Oxford are the rich history of Anniston Museum of Natural History and Berman Museum of World History. The museum houses artifacts and exhibits dating back centuries. Oxford Lake Park offers views of Oxford’s nature and wildlife. Quintard Mall is a great place for shopping and a taste of the past. Cheaha Mountain, the highest point in Alabama, is worth the hike. Oxford’s combination of historic sites and natural wonders makes it a city worth visiting.
These towns are just a few of the beautiful destinations in Alabama. It offers not only beauty but also rich history and unforgettable experiences. From the artsy streets of Fairhope to the historic charm of Athens, each town offers a unique aspect of Southern life. Whether you’re a history buff, shopper, or adventurer, Alabama’s picturesque small towns are sure to leave a lasting impression on you.