Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge represents a distinctive natural feature of Morgan County: Every year, it attracts thousands of wintering waterfowl and cranes. At the same time, the refuge is a winter habitat for the endangered whooping crane. Two perspectives come together here: the annual natural spectacle of many wintering birds and the habitat of a particularly endangered crane species. Nature and wildlife enthusiasts will find a starting point here for getting to know Morgan County beyond its historical and cultural attractions.
From Wave Pool to Natural History and Art
Point Mallard Park offers a different highlight with its championship golf course. Point Mallard Water Park also features the first wave pool built in the United States. Together, these two features tell different stories about the park: the golf course represents a sports facility, while the wave pool marks a notable milestone in the history of this type of recreation.
The Cook Museum of Natural Science is a place to explore and learn about nature. It offers a hands-on, immersive experience. The Carnegie Visual Arts Center combines art and education in a historic building constructed in 1904 that serves as both an art museum and an educational center. Its main floor hosts exhibitions year-round; admission is free. The exhibitions offer an experience distinct from that of the natural history museum: Here, fine art and a historic building are the focus, while the museum invites visitors to discover the natural world.
Banking History and Railroad Heritage
The Old State Bank offers another glimpse into history, but it is currently closed for extensive structural repairs; check its status again before visiting. Completed in 1834, it originally housed the Tennessee Valley branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama. The building has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1972. The details of its construction date, original function, and listing tell different chapters of its story: first its use as a bank, and later its recognition as a historic site.
In Hartselle, the Hartselle Depot, built in 1914, hosts exhibitions by the Hartselle Historical Society. The proposed inclusion of additional buildings in the central business district is also part of the town’s history: A total of 69 buildings, including the depot, were proposed for listing on the National Register of Historic Places. They should therefore be understood as proposed listings, not as listings that have already been made. Hartselle Depot Days celebrates Hartselle’s railroad history; since it is a recurring event, check the dates for your travel period.
The shops in downtown Hartselle offer local finds, too. They sell artwork by local artists and craftspeople, linens, soaps, and antiques. This adds a contemporary shopping angle to the depot story: Alongside railroad history, downtown offers arts and crafts and a variety of goods.
Events, Cycling, and Local Cuisine
The Alabama Jubilee Hot Air Balloon Classic schedule includes four time slots for balloon flights and events on Saturday and Sunday. Tethered balloon rides are offered during the evening program; availability depends on the pilots and conditions. Check the specific event dates and times before your trip. This will help you fit the festival’s schedule into your plans without assuming that you will take part in a particular activity.
For a bike ride, visitors can combine the Dr. Bill Sims Bike Trail with Decatur Alabama Blue Bikes. This offering brings together a named trail and a named bike-sharing service. The MoCo Barbecue Trail offers a culinary experience, taking visitors in Morgan County to barbecue, ribs, and side dishes. These dishes give the trail a clear focus and complement the nature, art, and history experiences with a local food perspective.
Discover more destinations: Decatur, Hartselle. Discover more destinations: Coffee County, Escambia County, Cleburne, Jackson, Walker, and Lawrence County.
For the main travel overview: Alabama.
