Decatur, Alabama: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Decatur, Alabama, is a charming town by the Tennessee River, just 30 minutes from Huntsville. It has about 55,000 people and mixes history with modern life. Visitors can find hidden spots and exciting adventures here. But what makes Decatur a top spot in the South? Let's explore the best things to do in this lively town.

Key Takeaways

• Decatur, Alabama, is a historic town along the Tennessee River with a population of around 55,000 residents.
• The city offers a mix of historic experiences and modern attractions, making it a unique destination in Alabama.
• Visitors can explore the charming downtown area, immerse themselves in nature at Point Mallard Park, and enjoy a variety of outdoor adventures.
• Decatur is home to cultural institutions, renowned restaurants, and a thriving arts scene, providing something for everyone to enjoy.
• The city's strategic location near Huntsville and its abundance of family-friendly activities make it an ideal stop for travelers in the South.

Discover Historic Downtown Decatur

In the heart of Alabama, historic downtown Decatur is a treasure trove of culture and history. It's filled with performing arts, cultural spots, and a deep railroad history. Come and see why it's a top spot for visitors.

Princess Theatre Center for the Performing Arts

Take a trip back in time at the Princess Theatre Center for the Performing Arts. It began as a livery stable in 1887 and now hosts concerts, plays, and more. The theater's art deco design will enchant you.

Historic Depot & Railroad Museum

Love railroad history? The Historic Depot & Railroad Museum is a must-see. It's in a 1905 depot and features model trains and a theater. Watch trains go by from the viewing platform and learn about Decatur's railroad past.

Bank Street Art & Antiques

Go on a treasure hunt at Bank Street Art & Antiques. This historic building is home to antique shops and local artists. Nearby, 810 Antiques offers vintage furniture and unique items.

Explore historic downtown Decatur and find its cultural gems, arts, and history. Whether you like performing arts, museums, or unique finds, there's something for everyone.

Immerse in Nature at Point Mallard Park

Point Mallard Park is a hidden gem in Decatur, Alabama. It's a paradise for those who love the outdoors and nature. With over 750 acres, it welcomes more than 300,000 visitors every year. It offers a variety of activities for the whole family.

There's something for everyone here. You can cool off in the waterpark with its exciting slides, wave pool, and lazy river. Or, hit the 18-hole golf course for some fun. If you're into adventure, explore the hiking and biking trails.

For a relaxing day, bring a picnic to one of the many pavilions or scenic spots. The park also has a campground for those who want to stay and enjoy nature more deeply.

Looking for outdoor recreation, parks and nature, or family activities? Point Mallard Park has it all. Spend a day here, and you'll feel refreshed, rejuvenated, and connected to nature.

Unleash Your Creativity at Cook Museum of Natural Science

In downtown Decatur, the Cook Museum of Natural Science invites you to dive into the wonders of nature. Since opening in 1980 and revamped in 2019, it's become a top spot for interactive exhibits and hands-on learning. Both kids and adults will find something to love here.

Interactive Exhibits and Hands-On Learning

The museum has a lot to offer, from a bee gallery to a recreated Alabama cave. Guests can get hands-on with turtles, alligators, and snakes. They can also check out the 15,000-gallon aquarium and learn about insects up close.

Explore the Wonders of Nature

• Discover the fascinating lives of bees in the museum's dedicated gallery
• Explore a recreated Alabama cave and learn about the unique ecosystems found underground
• Observe the captivating behavior of turtles, alligators, and snakes in the museum's animal exhibits
• Dive into the underwater world through the 15,000-gallon aquarium
• Immerse yourself in the intricate details of insects in the dedicated insect galleries

The Cook Museum of Natural Science offers a truly immersive and educational experience for the whole family. It's a place where creativity and learning meet, helping visitors understand the wonders of the natural sciences.

Decatur, Alabama: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Decatur, Alabama, is full of attractions for visitors. It has historic sites, cultural spots, outdoor fun, and local food. This city in the South has something for everyone. You can explore history, enjoy nature, or try local dishes in Decatur.

The Princess Theatre Center for the Performing Arts is a key spot. It's a historic theater from 1887 with concerts, plays, and more. Close by, the Historic Depot & Railroad Museum shows Decatur's past with tours of a 1905 train depot.

Point Mallard Park is perfect for nature lovers. It covers over 750 acres with a waterpark, golf, camping, and trails. You can also have picnics there.

The Cook Museum of Natural Science is great for nature fans. It has exhibits on geology, zoology, and paleontology. You can also see live animals.

Decatur, Alabama, has culture, outdoor fun, and local food for everyone. With its history, nature, and arts, it's a top spot in Alabama.

Savor Local Flavors

Decatur, Alabama, is a city full of local cuisine that celebrates its rich food history. You'll find everything from classic barbecue joints to new craft breweries. Each place offers a unique taste of the South.

Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q

A trip to Decatur isn't complete without eating at Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q. This restaurant has been around since 1925 and is one of the oldest barbecue places in the U.S. Try their smoked meats and don't miss the tangy white barbecue sauce. It's a North Alabama specialty that goes great with their hickory-smoked chickens.

Tess' Place

Tess' Place is a dessert shop in downtown Decatur named after a sweet French bulldog. They offer homemade ice cream flavors like honey roasted peanut butter and brown butter bourbon truffle. You can also enjoy gourmet sodas or a "pup cup" for your dog. It's a family-friendly spot perfect for those who love sweets.

Cross-Eyed Owl Brewing

Trey Atwood and his wife Erin started Cross-Eyed Owl Brewing after Trey's battle with cancer. It's Decatur's first brewery. You can try beers like the One Shoe Brown Porter and Lechuza Mexican Lager in their downtown taproom. The place is welcoming to kids and pets, making it a community spot to enjoy Decatur's flavors.

Embrace Outdoor Adventures

Decatur, Alabama, sits by the Tennessee River and is perfect for outdoor lovers. It's a place where you can really get into nature. You should definitely check out the Tennessee River Water Trail. It's a 22-mile path that goes through beautiful wetlands and forests.

Paddle the Tennessee River Water Trail

Whether you're an expert kayaker or new to the sport, the Tennessee River Water Trail is a must-see. You'll see turtles, herons, deer, and more as you paddle. There are also spots to swim, picnic, and explore more of nature.

Wheeler Wildlife Refuge

The Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge covers 35,000 acres along the Tennessee River. It's a key spot for birds like falcons, hawks, eagles, and bald eagles. From November to March, you can join birding tours to see these amazing birds up close.

Decatur has many outdoor activities for all nature lovers. Whether you want to paddle, birdwatch, or just enjoy the outdoors, there's something for you. It's a great way to connect with nature and make lasting memories.

Unwind in Scenic Parks

If you're looking for a peaceful place, Decatur, Alabama has many scenic parks. These parks are great for a leisurely walk, a quiet picnic, or enjoying nature. You can explore the 750-acre Point Mallard Park or the calm Wilson Morgan Park.

Point Mallard Park has lots to offer for all ages. It has a big water park with a wave pool, lazy river, and exciting slides. There's also an Olympic-size pool, a campground for RVs, and a spot for tent camping.

• Explore the park's bike-friendly loops, perfect for a leisurely cycle or an adventurous ride.
• Enjoy a family meal at Point Pizza, which offers a deal including a large pizza and four drinks for around $20.

Wilson Morgan Park is quieter and covers 46 acres. It has outdoor basketball, baseball fields, a disc golf course, and a big playground. It's perfect for a calm picnic or playing frisbee with loved ones.

Decatur's parks offer adventure, relaxation, or both. So, bring a picnic, wear your hiking boots, and explore the beauty and fun these parks have. You'll find endless possibilities for outdoor fun.

Experience Rich Cultural Attractions

Decatur, Alabama, is full of cultural spots that highlight the city's history and art. Don't miss the Carnegie Visual Arts Center and the Old State Bank.

Carnegie Visual Arts Center

Andrew Carnegie built the Carnegie Visual Arts Center in 1904. It was one of over 2,500 libraries he funded across the country. From 1904 to 1973, it was Decatur's public library. Then, it became the arts center we know today in 2003.

At the Daikin America Education Center, you can make art, see art exhibits, or join the Carnegie Carnival in February. This event is a Mardi Gras celebration.

Old State Bank

The Old State Bank was built in 1833, when Decatur was a small village. It has kept its original vault and safe doors, which Union troops used during the Civil War. Now, it's a museum with Civil War exhibits and artifacts from the 19th century.

These two attractions are perfect for those who love art, culture, or history. They offer fun and educational experiences in Decatur, Alabama.

Conclusion

Decatur, Alabama, is a place full of history, nature, and great food. It's a top spot for travelers in the South. You can dive into the city's arts and culture or try its famous barbecue and craft beers.

The city has many things to see, like the Historic Depot & Railroad Museum and the Cook Museum of Natural Science. Point Mallard Park is also a must-see for its beauty. Downtown Decatur is full of shops, galleries, and places to hear live music.

When planning your trip to Decatur, think about the family-friendly activities and outdoor fun. You can paddle on the Tennessee River or visit historic sites. Decatur gives you a full experience that you'll want to come back for.