Nestled in the heart of northern Alabama, Decatur is a charming city that offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and modern attractions. With its rich heritage, scenic beauty, and warm southern hospitality, Decatur has something to offer for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, this city has plenty of activities and attractions to keep you entertained.
From exploring the historic downtown district to enjoying the great outdoors at one of the many parks and nature preserves, Decatur is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at 12 of the best things to do in Decatur, Alabama, so you can plan your perfect trip to this delightful southern city.
Visit the Historic Downtown District
One of the best ways to experience the charm and character of Decatur is to take a stroll through its historic downtown district. This beautifully preserved area is home to a variety of unique shops, restaurants, and galleries, all housed in stunning 19th-century buildings.
As you wander along the tree-lined streets, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time to a bygone era. Be sure to check out some of the district’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Old State Bank Building, which dates back to 1833 and is one of the oldest surviving buildings in Alabama.
Another must-see attraction in the downtown district is the Carnegie Visual Arts Center, which is housed in a beautiful Carnegie library building from 1904. This stunning facility features rotating exhibits showcasing the work of local and regional artists, as well as art classes and workshops for all ages.
Explore the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge
If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in nature, the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge is the perfect destination. Located just a short drive from downtown Decatur, this sprawling 35,000-acre preserve is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including over 295 species of birds.
One of the best ways to explore the refuge is by taking a hike along one of the many trails that wind through the park. The Flint Creek Trail is a popular choice, offering stunning views of the Tennessee River and the surrounding wetlands. Keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles, ospreys, and other birds of prey that call the refuge home.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also rent a kayak or canoe and paddle along the scenic Flint Creek or the Tennessee River. This is a great way to get up close and personal with the wildlife and enjoy the peaceful beauty of the refuge.
Visit the Cook Museum of Natural Science
For a fun and educational experience that the whole family will enjoy, be sure to visit the Cook Museum of Natural Science. This state-of-the-art facility features a variety of interactive exhibits and displays that showcase the wonders of the natural world.
One of the highlights of the museum is the immersive cave exhibit, which allows visitors to explore a realistic cave environment complete with stalactites, stalagmites, and even a waterfall. Other popular exhibits include the dinosaur hall, the marine life gallery, and the hands-on discovery lab.
The museum also offers a variety of educational programs and workshops throughout the year, including summer camps, field trips, and special events. Whether you’re a science enthusiast or simply looking for a fun and engaging way to spend an afternoon, the Cook Museum of Natural Science is not to be missed.
Take a Tour of the Old Decatur Historic District
For a glimpse into Decatur’s rich history and architectural heritage, be sure to take a tour of the Old Decatur Historic District. This charming neighborhood is home to a variety of stunning historic homes and buildings, many of which date back to the mid-19th century.
One of the most iconic landmarks in the district is the Delano Park Rose Garden, which features over 2,000 rose bushes in a variety of colors and varieties. The garden is a popular spot for weddings, picnics, and other special events, and is a must-see for anyone visiting Decatur.
Another highlight of the Old Decatur Historic District is the Old State Bank Building, which is one of the oldest surviving buildings in Alabama. Built in 1833, this stunning Greek Revival-style building now serves as a museum and cultural center, offering a fascinating glimpse into the city’s early history.
Attend a Performance at the Princess Theatre
If you’re a fan of the performing arts, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to attend a show at the historic Princess Theatre. This beautifully restored 1920s-era theater has been a cultural landmark in Decatur for over a century, hosting a variety of performances throughout the year.
From classic plays and musicals to concerts and comedy shows, the Princess Theatre offers something for everyone. The theater also hosts a variety of special events and festivals throughout the year, including the River Clay Fine Arts Festival and the Storytelling Festival.
Whether you’re a theater buff or simply looking for a fun and entertaining way to spend an evening, the Princess Theatre is definitely worth checking out.
Visit the Old State Bank Building
As mentioned earlier, the Old State Bank Building is one of the most iconic landmarks in Decatur, and a must-see for anyone interested in the city’s history. Built in 1833, this stunning Greek Revival-style building is one of the oldest surviving structures in Alabama, and has played a significant role in the state’s early history.
Today, the building serves as a museum and cultural center, offering a fascinating glimpse into life in Decatur during the 19th century. Visitors can explore a variety of exhibits and artifacts that showcase the city’s early history, including a restored bank vault, period furnishings, and historic documents.
The Old State Bank Building is also a popular venue for special events and programs, including lectures, workshops, and educational programs for children. Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for a unique and engaging cultural experience, the Old State Bank Building is definitely worth a visit.
Take a Stroll Through Delano Park
If you’re looking for a peaceful and scenic spot to relax and unwind, Delano Park is the perfect destination. This beautiful 28-acre park is located in the heart of Decatur, and features a variety of amenities and attractions for visitors of all ages.
One of the highlights of the park is the stunning rose garden, which features over 2,000 rose bushes in a variety of colors and varieties. The garden is a popular spot for weddings, picnics, and other special events, and is a must-see for anyone visiting Decatur.
Other attractions in the park include a playground, a walking trail, a tennis center, and a disc golf course. The park also hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and holiday celebrations.
Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to read a book, a place to take the kids to play, or a scenic setting for a picnic or outdoor gathering, Delano Park is definitely worth a visit.
Explore the Morgan County Archives
For a fascinating glimpse into the history of Decatur and the surrounding region, be sure to visit the Morgan County Archives. This unique facility is home to a vast collection of historical documents, photographs, and artifacts that tell the story of the area’s past.
Visitors can explore a variety of exhibits and displays that showcase the county’s early settlers, notable figures, and significant events. The archives also offer a variety of educational programs and workshops throughout the year, including genealogy classes, history lectures, and special events.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for a unique and engaging cultural experience, the Morgan County Archives are definitely worth checking out.
Visit the Decatur Morgan County Convention and Visitors Bureau
If you’re looking for information on things to see and do in Decatur and the surrounding area, the Decatur Morgan County Convention and Visitors Bureau is the perfect place to start. This friendly and knowledgeable organization is dedicated to promoting tourism and economic development in the region, and offers a wealth of resources and information for visitors.
The bureau’s visitor center is located in the heart of downtown Decatur, and features a variety of brochures, maps, and other materials to help you plan your trip. The staff are also happy to answer any questions you may have and provide recommendations on the best places to eat, shop, and explore in the area.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, the Decatur Morgan County Convention and Visitors Bureau is a valuable resource for anyone looking to make the most of their time in Decatur.
Take a Tour of the Historic Decatur Cemetery
For a unique and fascinating perspective on Decatur’s history, be sure to take a tour of the Historic Decatur Cemetery. This beautiful and serene cemetery dates back to the early 19th century, and is the final resting place of many of the city’s most notable figures and pioneers.
Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the cemetery, exploring the stunning monuments, sculptures, and headstones that tell the story of Decatur’s past. The cemetery is also home to a variety of beautiful trees and landscaping, making it a peaceful and scenic spot for a quiet walk or moment of reflection.
The Historic Decatur Cemetery is also a popular spot for history buffs and genealogy enthusiasts, who can explore the many fascinating stories and legacies of the city’s early settlers and leaders.
Visit the North Alabama Birding Trail
If you’re a birdwatching enthusiast or simply love spending time in nature, the North Alabama Birding Trail is a must-see destination. This extensive network of trails and observation sites spans across 12 counties in northern Alabama, including Decatur and the surrounding area.
The trail is home to a diverse array of bird species, including many rare and endangered birds that are difficult to spot elsewhere. Visitors can explore a variety of habitats, from wetlands and marshes to forests and grasslands, each offering unique opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife observation.
The North Alabama Birding Trail also offers a variety of educational programs and workshops throughout the year, including guided walks, birdwatching classes, and special events. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or simply looking for a fun and engaging way to spend time outdoors, the North Alabama Birding Trail is definitely worth checking out.
Take a Day Trip to the U.S. Space and Rocket Center
If you’re looking for a fun and educational day trip from Decatur, be sure to visit the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in nearby Huntsville. This world-renowned museum and educational center is dedicated to the history and future of space exploration, and offers a variety of exhibits, artifacts, and interactive experiences for visitors of all ages.
Highlights of the center include a full-scale replica of the Saturn V rocket, a collection of historic spacecraft and artifacts, and a variety of hands-on exhibits and simulations that allow visitors to experience the thrill of space travel.
The U.S. Space and Rocket Center also offers a variety of educational programs and workshops throughout the year, including summer camps, field trips, and special events. Whether you’re a space enthusiast or simply looking for a fun and engaging way to spend a day, the U.S. Space and Rocket Center is definitely worth the trip from Decatur.
Conclusion
As you can see, Decatur, Alabama is a city with no shortage of fascinating attractions and activities to explore. From its rich history and stunning natural beauty to its vibrant arts and culture scene, Decatur has something to offer for everyone.
Whether you’re interested in exploring the great outdoors, learning about the city’s past, or simply enjoying a fun and relaxing getaway, Decatur is the perfect destination. With its warm southern hospitality, delicious food, and endless opportunities for adventure and discovery, this charming city is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.
So why not plan your trip to Decatur today? With so much to see and do, you’re sure to create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or on your own, Decatur is a city that will welcome you with open arms and show you the very best of what northern Alabama has to offer.