I've been thinking about this for a while now. I'm not sure anyone else will agree, but thought I'd pose the idea...

I thought it might be interesting to have a series of threads where we periodically post a new state (every couple of weeks? once a month?) and we can share some of our favorite sights and pictures as well as anything on your to do list. That way, if someone is going there, they'll have a list of ideas of what to do or where to start.

I see threads about places (Arizona or Colorado for instance) pop up all the time or previous threads get bumped. I just thought it might be interesting to have a single thread for the states for easier reference. And I thought it might be fun to share some of our experiences.

What do y'all think? Anyone?

I pose this in a thread about Alabama because...well, it's the first state alphabetically and it's not a big hitter.

If it's a bad idea, roast me and we'll just have a one off thread about Alabama.

So, what are y'all's must dos in the state of Alabama?

Ok, so I'll get us started.

I'm not super deep on Alabama. I've had a few trips out for Aggie Sports (SEC Soccer Tournaments in Orange Beach and Football at Auburn), I've done a marathon in Gulf Shores, and we've made a few stops around Mobile, Montgomery, and Birmingham on our drives to Georgia.

Favorite Spots:
Gulf Shores/Orange Beach - While obviously touristy, I've found these beach towns nicer than those across the state line in Florida. Gulf State Park is a beautiful buffer from the busyness of the towns. I was also surprised with a good food scene. And, obviously, the beaches… They may be the best in the continental United States.

We stayed at the Hilton Lodge in Gulf State Park and it was such a nice property and made access to the park very easy.

Luna's Eat and Drink is a favorite spot in that area as well.


A couple of pictures from the beach and fishing pier at the state park in front of the lodge.




Since we do pass through every once in a while to visit family, I do have a few things on my to do list.

To Do List:
The Civil Rights Memorials and Museums in Montgomery (and Selma) have long been at the top of my to do list for Alabama. Chief among those for me are the Legacy Museum and the Memorial for Peace and Justice. It's in our plans, but it will take a more dedicated trip than we've given to Montgomery.

Little River Canyon National Preserve in the Northeast corner of the state looks gorgeous. I'm not sure if we'll ever actually make it up there, but I've had it bookmarked on my map since I saw the picturesque falls in the area.

The Beach Club out at Ft Morgan is really nice for the kids. It is way out there, but really great. If you go, take the ferry over. It is about the same in time, but much nicer to let them drive while you park and walk around a bit. Call them first or check their facepage.

I think NE Alabama is beautiful.

Ft Payne for the Alabama (The Band) museum