Tuscaloosa, Alabama, is a vibrant city that offers a wide range of activities and attractions for families to enjoy. From outdoor adventures and cultural experiences to sports and entertainment, there is something for everyone in this charming Southern city. Whether you are a local looking for new ways to spend quality time with your loved ones or a visitor exploring the area for the first time, Tuscaloosa has plenty to offer.
In this article, we will highlight 12 fun and engaging things to do with family in Tuscaloosa. From exploring the great outdoors at Lake Lurleen State Park to learning about the city’s rich history at the Alabama Museum of Natural History, we will showcase the best family-friendly attractions and activities the city has to offer. So, grab your loved ones and get ready to create unforgettable memories in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.
Visit the Children’s Hands-On Museum
The Children’s Hands-On Museum is a must-visit attraction for families with young children. This interactive museum offers a wide range of exhibits and activities designed to promote learning through play. Kids can explore a miniature city, complete with a grocery store, bank, and post office, or experiment with light, sound, and motion in the museum’s science exhibits.
The museum also features an art studio where children can express their creativity through painting, drawing, and sculpting. With three floors of engaging exhibits and activities, the Children’s Hands-On Museum provides hours of educational fun for children of all ages.
In addition to its permanent exhibits, the museum hosts special events and programs throughout the year, such as summer camps, workshops, and holiday celebrations. These events offer additional opportunities for families to learn, play, and bond together in a welcoming and stimulating environment.
Explore Lake Lurleen State Park
Lake Lurleen State Park is a beautiful outdoor destination located just a short drive from downtown Tuscaloosa. This 1,625-acre park offers a wide range of activities for families to enjoy, including hiking, fishing, swimming, and camping.
The park’s centerpiece is the 250-acre Lake Lurleen, which provides ample opportunities for water-based recreation. Families can rent canoes, kayaks, or paddleboards to explore the lake’s tranquil waters or simply relax on the sandy beach and soak up the sun. Fishing enthusiasts can cast their lines in hopes of catching bass, bream, or catfish.
For those who prefer to stay on land, Lake Lurleen State Park offers over 23 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, winding through the park’s lush forests and offering stunning views of the lake and surrounding landscape. The park also features a large campground with both primitive and RV sites, as well as picnic areas and playgrounds for families to enjoy.
Attend a University of Alabama Sports Event
Tuscaloosa is home to the University of Alabama, and attending a Crimson Tide sports event is a quintessential experience for families visiting the city. Bryant-Denny Stadium, the home of Alabama football, is one of the largest and most iconic college football venues in the country, seating over 101,000 fans.
Experiencing the electric atmosphere of a Crimson Tide football game is an unforgettable experience for sports fans of all ages. The stadium comes alive with a sea of crimson and white as fans cheer on their beloved team. Even if you are not a die-hard football fan, attending a game at Bryant-Denny Stadium is a thrilling and memorable family activity.
In addition to football, the University of Alabama offers a wide range of other sports for families to enjoy, including basketball, baseball, softball, and gymnastics. Attending a game or event is a great way to show support for the local community and create lasting family memories.
Visit the Alabama Museum of Natural History
The Alabama Museum of Natural History, located on the University of Alabama campus, is a fascinating destination for families interested in learning about the natural world. The museum houses extensive collections of fossils, minerals, and artifacts that showcase Alabama’s rich geological and archaeological history.
One of the museum’s most impressive exhibits is the Hodges Meteorite, the largest space rock ever recovered in Alabama. Weighing over 160 pounds, this meteorite is a rare and stunning specimen that offers a glimpse into the mysteries of the universe.
Other notable exhibits include the Alabama Dinosaurs exhibit, which features a full-scale replica of a Tyrannosaurus rex skull, and the Grand Gallery, which showcases an array of mounted animals from around the world, including a massive African elephant.
In addition to its permanent exhibits, the Alabama Museum of Natural History hosts temporary exhibitions, educational programs, and special events throughout the year. These offerings provide families with additional opportunities to learn about the natural world and engage with the museum’s collections in new and exciting ways.
Spend a Day at the Tuscaloosa Riverwalk
The Tuscaloosa Riverwalk is a scenic 4.5-mile path along the Black Warrior River, offering families a beautiful setting for outdoor recreation and relaxation. The paved trail is perfect for walking, jogging, cycling, or simply taking in the stunning river views.
Along the Riverwalk, families will find several parks and green spaces, including the Manderson Landing and the River Market. These areas feature playgrounds, picnic tables, and open lawns where children can run and play while adults relax and socialize.
The Riverwalk is also home to several pieces of public art, including sculptures and murals that add to the trail’s unique character and charm. Families can enjoy a scavenger hunt to find and appreciate these artistic elements along the path.
Throughout the year, the Tuscaloosa Riverwalk hosts various events and festivals, such as the Druid City Arts Festival and the July 4th Celebration on the River. These events offer additional entertainment and activities for families to enjoy while experiencing the beauty of the Riverwalk.
Discover the Paul W. Bryant Museum
The Paul W. Bryant Museum is a must-visit destination for families with sports enthusiasts, particularly fans of the Alabama Crimson Tide. Dedicated to the life and legacy of legendary football coach Paul “Bear” Bryant, the museum showcases the rich history and traditions of the University of Alabama’s athletic program.
Visitors can explore exhibits featuring championship trophies, memorabilia, and interactive displays that highlight the accomplishments of Crimson Tide teams and athletes. The museum’s Hall of Honor pays tribute to the coaches and players who have made significant contributions to the university’s athletic success.
One of the museum’s most popular attractions is the “Bear” Bryant exhibit, which chronicles the life and career of the iconic coach through photographs, artifacts, and video displays. Families can learn about Bryant’s impact on the university and the sport of football, as well as his enduring legacy in the hearts of Alabama fans.
In addition to its permanent exhibits, the Paul W. Bryant Museum hosts special events and temporary exhibitions throughout the year, providing families with new and exciting ways to engage with the university’s athletic history.
Take a Tour of the Moundville Archaeological Park
The Moundville Archaeological Park, located just outside of Tuscaloosa, is a fascinating destination for families interested in Native American history and culture. This 326-acre park is home to 26 prehistoric Native American mounds, making it one of the largest and best-preserved Mississippian sites in the United States.
Families can explore the park’s museum, which houses a collection of artifacts excavated from the site, providing insight into the daily lives, art, and spiritual practices of the Mississippian people who inhabited the area from 1000 to 1450 AD. Guided tours of the mounds are available, offering a deeper understanding of the site’s historical and cultural significance.
In addition to its archaeological features, Moundville Archaeological Park offers a variety of outdoor activities for families to enjoy. The park features hiking trails, a campground, and picnic areas, allowing families to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the surroundings while learning about the area’s rich history.
Throughout the year, the park hosts special events, such as the Moundville Native American Festival, which celebrates the cultural heritage of Southeastern Native American tribes through demonstrations, performances, and hands-on activities.
Enjoy Family Fun at the Mercedes-Benz U.S. International Visitor Center and Museum
The Mercedes-Benz U.S. International Visitor Center and Museum offers a unique and exciting experience for families interested in automotive history and technology. Located at the Mercedes-Benz manufacturing plant in Tuscaloosa, the visitor center and museum showcase the company’s rich heritage and innovative spirit.
Families can take a guided tour of the visitor center, learning about the history of Mercedes-Benz and the manufacturing process behind some of the world’s most iconic luxury vehicles. Interactive exhibits allow visitors to explore the company’s latest technological advancements and design innovations.
The museum features a collection of vintage and modern Mercedes-Benz vehicles, offering a fascinating look at the evolution of the brand over time. Families can admire classic models, such as the 1886 Benz Patent-Motorwagen, as well as sleek, contemporary vehicles that represent the future of automotive design.
In addition to its educational exhibits, the Mercedes-Benz U.S. International Visitor Center and Museum offers a variety of family-friendly amenities, including a café, gift shop, and outdoor picnic area, making it a well-rounded destination for a day of fun and learning.
Experience the Tuscaloosa Farmers Market
The Tuscaloosa Farmers Market is a vibrant community gathering place that offers families a chance to connect with local farmers, artisans, and food producers. Held every Saturday morning from April through November, the market features a wide variety of fresh, locally-grown produce, as well as handcrafted goods, baked treats, and specialty items.
Visiting the farmers market is a great way to teach children about the importance of supporting local agriculture and the benefits of eating fresh, healthy foods. Families can browse the colorful stalls, sample unique products, and engage with friendly vendors who are passionate about their offerings.
The market also features live music, cooking demonstrations, and kids’ activities, creating a festive and engaging atmosphere for families to enjoy. By making a trip to the Tuscaloosa Farmers Market a regular family outing, parents can foster a love for fresh, local food and a sense of community connection in their children.
Visit the Tuscaloosa Museum of Art
The Tuscaloosa Museum of Art is a hidden gem that offers families a chance to explore a diverse collection of fine and decorative arts in an intimate and welcoming setting. Located in the historic Westervelt-Warner House, the museum features a permanent collection of American and European paintings, sculptures, and furniture, as well as a significant collection of Japanese prints and African art.
Families can take a guided tour of the museum, learning about the artists, techniques, and historical contexts behind the works on display. The museum’s knowledgeable staff can provide age-appropriate insights and activities to engage children and make the experience more interactive.
In addition to its permanent collection, the Tuscaloosa Museum of Art hosts temporary exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing the works of regional, national, and international artists. These special exhibitions provide families with new and exciting ways to engage with art and expand their cultural horizons.
The museum also offers a variety of educational programs and events, such as art classes, workshops, and family days, which provide hands-on opportunities for children and adults to explore their creativity and learn new skills.
Go Bowling at Bowlero Tuscaloosa
Bowlero Tuscaloosa is a modern and entertaining destination that offers families a fun and active way to spend quality time together. This state-of-the-art bowling alley features 40 lanes, each equipped with comfortable seating, automatic scoring, and large video screens that display engaging content and animations.
In addition to bowling, Bowlero Tuscaloosa offers a variety of other games and activities that appeal to all ages. Families can enjoy classic arcade games, such as skee-ball and air hockey, or try their hand at the latest video game consoles. The on-site laser tag arena provides an exhilarating and competitive experience for older children and adults.
When it’s time for a break, families can visit the alley’s full-service restaurant and bar, which serves a variety of delicious food and drink options. From classic burgers and pizza to specialty cocktails and craft beers, there is something to satisfy every taste and preference.
Bowlero Tuscaloosa also offers special events and promotions throughout the year, such as family fun nights, holiday celebrations, and themed tournaments, providing additional opportunities for families to create lasting memories together.
Explore Nature at the Tuscaloosa Botanical Gardens
The Tuscaloosa Botanical Gardens is a picturesque outdoor destination that offers families a chance to connect with nature and explore the beauty of the local flora. Spanning over 50 acres, the gardens feature a variety of themed areas, including a rose garden, a Japanese garden, and a children’s garden.
Families can stroll along the well-maintained paths, admiring the colorful blooms, fragrant herbs, and stately trees that make up the gardens’ diverse plant collections. The children’s garden is a particular highlight, featuring interactive elements such as a butterfly garden, a sensory garden, and a playhouse that encourage hands-on learning and imaginative play.
The Tuscaloosa Botanical Gardens also offers educational programs and events throughout the year, such as gardening workshops, nature walks, and seasonal festivals. These activities provide families with opportunities to learn about the natural world, develop new skills, and create lasting memories in a beautiful and peaceful setting.
In addition to its botanical attractions, the gardens feature several amenities that make it a welcoming destination for families, including picnic areas, a gift shop, and a café that serves light refreshments. With its combination of natural beauty, educational opportunities, and family-friendly facilities, the Tuscaloosa Botanical Gardens is a must-visit destination for families in the area.
Conclusion
Tuscaloosa, Alabama, offers a wide range of exciting and enriching activities for families to enjoy together. From exploring the city’s rich history and cultural heritage at museums and archaeological sites to enjoying outdoor adventures at parks and gardens, there is something to appeal to every interest and age group.
By taking advantage of these family-friendly attractions and experiences, parents can create lasting memories with their children while fostering a love for learning, creativity, and community engagement. Whether it’s cheering on the Crimson Tide at a sports event, discovering the wonders of the natural world at the Alabama Museum of Natural History, or simply enjoying a picnic along the scenic Tuscaloosa Riverwalk, families will find countless opportunities to bond and have fun in this vibrant Southern city.
As a final recommendation, we encourage families to approach these activities with a spirit of openness, curiosity, and togetherness. By engaging with each other and the world around them, families can strengthen their relationships, broaden their horizons, and create a shared sense of joy and wonder that will last a lifetime. So go ahead and explore all that Tuscaloosa has to offer – your family will thank you for it!