Tuscaloosa can be explored through several distinct themes: Alabama’s natural and prehistoric history, the sports history of the University of Alabama, cultural sites, lakes and trails along the Black Warrior River. When planning your trip, it is worth first considering which of these themes you would like to focus on. If you are looking for a hotel, choosing a focus can help you tailor your stay to your interests.
Nature, Gardens and Lakes
The Alabama Museum of Natural History is dedicated to Alabama’s natural and prehistoric history. Its exhibitions and collections include items related to both subjects; individual exhibitions may change. At the University of Alabama Arboretum, by contrast, the landscape itself takes center stage: walking trails wind through a native forest. There is also a wildflower garden, a collection of ornamental plants, a research garden and a nursery. The two nature destinations are therefore quite different—collections and exhibitions at one, trails and various garden areas at the other.
The lakes also offer their own distinct features. Lake Nicol offers opportunities for canoeing. The land around Harris Lake is entirely designated as protected parkland; the lake is also part of the Alabama Birding Trail. Lake Tuscaloosa is associated with fishing and boating culture in the region. Fishing is a year-round activity. These differences can help you choose what to focus on: canoeing is mentioned for Lake Nicol, while Harris Lake is characterized by its designated protected area and its inclusion on the Birding Trail.
History and Cultural Sites
The Paul W. Bryant Museum represents the sports history of the University of Alabama. It collects, preserves and displays objects related to this history. Its exhibitions document the history and tradition of the Crimson Tide from the first team in 1892 to the present; their content may be updated. The Gorgas House Museum offers a different historical perspective: it is the oldest building on the University of Alabama campus and houses original Gorgas family furnishings, keepsakes and 19th-century artifacts.
The Dinah Washington Cultural Arts Center is located in the former Allen & Jemison Co. Hardware building. It has two gallery spaces with rotating exhibitions. The Old Tavern also connects its present-day use as a museum with its history: the building was constructed in 1827 as a tavern and hotel on the stagecoach route through Tuscaloosa. Today, it is a museum dedicated to the early history of Tuscaloosa County. Those interested in civil rights history will find the events surrounding “Bloody Tuesday” as a central theme in the downtown section of the Tuscaloosa Civil Rights History Trail.
Riverwalk and Culinary City Tour
The Riverwalk is a paved trail along the south bank of the Black Warrior River near downtown. Its entire current route is about 4.5 miles long: it begins at Capitol Park and ends at a pavilion on the east side of Manderson Landing. The approximate length and the two endpoints provide an indication of the distance without specifying a walking time. The Mercedes-Benz Amphitheater is also located on the riverbank; it spans 15 acres and is connected to the Tuscaloosa Riverwalk.
Another way to explore downtown Tuscaloosa is Tasting Tuscaloosa: this chef-led culinary city tour takes place on foot through downtown every Wednesday evening. As the schedule may change, check the date before your visit. To help you plan your trip, the Visit Tuscaloosa Visitor Center provides free maps, brochures and visitor guides; check the visitor information before your trip.
Discover more destinations: Northport, Vance, Fosters.
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