Unique Alabama Day Trips That Are an Absolute Must-Do

One of the perks of living in Alabama is having access to so many beautiful places. Whether you drive used or new cars, you can drive all over the state, from the charming coast to the roaming hills. If you’re looking for a unique day trip, these are some local spots you don’t want to pass up.

The Dismals Canyon

If you’re looking for a fun and mysterious adventure, exploring Dismals Canyon is a great day trip. Located in Northwest Alabama, Dismals Canyon is about 210 miles from Auburn. The 85-acre nature conservatory and registered Natural Landmark is a privately owned hiking destination. This is also one of the few places in the world you can catch sight of a dismalite, or glowworm. A guided night tour allows you to see these insects in person.

You’ll begin your hike on the canyon floor before you delve into a gorgeous mossy forest. While hiking, you’ll have access to a variety of grottos, caverns, waterfalls, and boulders. The trail is just 1.5 miles, but it feels otherworldly. Once you finish your hike, check out the soda fountain inside the Country Store, which offers everything from handheld meals and cakes to ice cream and beverages. Keep in mind that the canyon and soda fountain are open only on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

Gulf State Park

If you’re excited to experience white sand beaches, Gulf State Park is a great destination. The park is a great place to swim, fish, hike, or camp. Plus, the park is close to various restaurants, ice cream shops, and more. The park offers over two miles of beaches that are perfect for walking and paddling. You can enjoy a picnic lunch or visit the Lake Shelby day-use area, where you can kayak or canoe. The drive from Auburn to Gulf State Park is about four hours, but it’s worth the trip if you want to see the beach.

Childersburg

If you’re looking for a bit of history, Childersburg should be on your list of day trips to take and learn about. In fact, Childersburg is listed as the oldest continually occupied city in America. Its history dates back to 1540, even though it wasn’t incorporated until 1889. The distance from Auburn to Childersburg is about 75 miles.

Several landmarks in the town are worth visiting, including the Kymulga Grist Mill Park and DeSoto Caverns Park. The Kymulga Grist Mill Park was built around 1860, and its covered bridge is one of the focal points. The park also includes a variety of walking trails and campsites. The Majestic Caverns, also called DeSoto Caverns, offer entertainment as well as guided tours of the caverns. Other attractions outside the caverns include gemstone panning, playgrounds, mini golf, a splash pad, and a cafe.

Huntsville

Huntsville is about three and a half hours from Auburn, but it has a lot to offer travelers. One of the biggest reasons to visit Huntsville is to check out the US Space and Rocket Center, which offers a wide range of space-related artifacts. The Huntsville Botanical Garden also offers over 100 acres of gorgeous landscapes, including a children’s garden. If you crave an outdoor adventure, Huntsville is also conveniently located for a visit to Monte Sano State Park. You can end your day with some drinks at the Straight to Ale Taproom, which makes plenty of local brews.

Bessemer

If you want to try the oldest restaurant in Alabama, you might want to drive to Bessemer. The restaurant, known as The Bright Star, started out in 1907 as a small cafe with just 25 seats in a cramped room. Today, the restaurant can seat well over 300 diners. The interior of the restaurant still reflects the history of the place. The menu includes the restaurant’s famous gumbo, Gulf shrimp platters, hamburger steak, catfish, spaghetti, and other classic diner fare.

Bessemer is about two hours away from Auburn. You’ll find a lot more to do in Bessemer besides eating. You can also visit the Watercress Darter National Wildlife Refuge or enjoy the Alabama wine trail. If you like blues music, you might also consider spending an evening at Gip’s Place. If you’d rather get in touch with nature, you can also check out Red Mountain Park, which offers walking trails, zip lining, and more.

Mobile

The drive from Auburn to Mobile takes over three and a half hours, but it’s a worthwhile trip for many reasons. For one, the city is full of rich Alabama history. Great historical destinations include the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park, Fort Conde, and the History Museum of Mobile. The Mobile Carnival Museum is also a worthwhile stop, especially if you had no idea that Mobile is home to the country’s oldest Mardi Gras celebration. If you can visit in February, you may be able to catch the Mardi Gras parade in person.

If you’re ready to eat and try some unique cocktails, Mobile has lovely historic districts with great businesses. Dauphin Street is full of colorful buildings, trendy businesses, and live music.

Tuscumbia

Tuscumbia and Auburn may be over three and a half hours apart, but the trip is well worth your time. Not only is Tuscumbia located in a beautiful part of Alabama, but it also has historical relevance. In fact, it’s the birthplace and childhood home of Helen Keller. You can tour the home, which is named Ivy Green. If you visit in June, you can participate in the yearly Helen Keller Festival. While you’re in Tuscumbia, you can also check out the Alabama Music Hall of Fame and Tuscumbia Spring Park. The Coon Dog Cemetery is another interesting relic from the state’s history.

At Hyundai of Auburn, we know that you’re not only looking for places to go but also the best ways to get there. A new or used car can provide the perfect opportunity to explore Alabama. Check out our inventory of new cars to see how you can explore each of these destinations in style.

Image by Harsh is licensed with Unsplash License