Decatur Al City Limits Map
Introduction
Located in northern Alabama, Decatur is a charming city with plenty of things to see and do. From historical landmarks to outdoor adventures, this city has something for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, and more.
Top Attractions
Point Mallard Park
Point Mallard Park is a must-visit attraction in Decatur. This 500-acre park boasts a water park, golf course, tennis courts, and more. The park is also home to an indoor ice rink, which is perfect for those hot summer days.
Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge
For nature lovers, the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge is a must-visit destination. This 35,000-acre wildlife refuge is home to over 300 bird species, as well as deer, rabbits, and other wildlife. Visitors can explore the refuge on hiking trails or take a scenic drive through the park.
Hidden Gems
Breweries and Wineries
Decatur has a vibrant craft beer and wine scene, with several breweries and wineries to explore. Visit Blue Pants Brewery for their award-winning craft beers or stop by the Decatur Brewing Company for a pint of their signature IPA. For wine lovers, the Morgan Creek Vineyards is a picturesque spot for wine tasting.
Princess Theatre
The Princess Theatre is a hidden gem in Decatur. This historic theater was built in 1887 and has been beautifully restored. Visitors can catch a live performance or take a guided tour of the theater.
Food Scene
Big Bob Gibson’s BBQ
No trip to Decatur is complete without a visit to Big Bob Gibson’s BBQ. This iconic restaurant has been serving up delicious BBQ for over 90 years. Try their famous pulled pork sandwich or their mouth-watering ribs.
The RailYard
The RailYard is a popular spot for foodies in Decatur. This renovated train depot features several restaurants and bars, including the popular Moe’s Original Bar B Que and the laid-back The Stem & Stein.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Visit the Local Farmers Market
The Decatur Farmers Market is a great place to find fresh produce, baked goods, and other local products. The market is open on Saturdays from 7 am to noon, and visitors can enjoy live music and other entertainment.
Explore the Parks
Decatur has several beautiful parks, including the Delano Park and Wilson Morgan Park. These parks are free to visit and offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities.
Outdoor Adventures
Kayaking on the Tennessee River
The Tennessee River runs through Decatur and is a popular spot for kayaking and other water sports. Visitors can rent kayaks or canoes from the local outfitters and explore the river on their own.
Hiking at Bankhead National Forest
The Bankhead National Forest is a short drive from Decatur and offers plenty of hiking trails for all skill levels. The forest is home to several waterfalls, including the popular Caney Creek Falls.
Historical Landmarks
The Old State Bank
The Old State Bank is a historic building that has been beautifully preserved. Built in 1833, this Greek Revival-style building was once a bank and later served as a hospital during the Civil War. Visitors can take a guided tour of the building and learn about its fascinating history.
The Dancy-Polk House
The Dancy-Polk House is another historic landmark in Decatur. This elegant antebellum mansion was built in the 1820s and has been beautifully restored. Visitors can take a guided tour of the house and learn about its rich history.
Family-Friendly Activities
Cook’s Natural Science Museum
The Cook’s Natural Science Museum is a great place to take the kids. This museum features a variety of exhibits on animals, fossils, and other natural wonders. Visitors can also explore the museum’s beautiful gardens and nature trails.
Decatur’s Splash Pad
Decatur’s Splash Pad is a popular spot for families during the summer months. This outdoor water park features several splash pads and water features that are perfect for kids of all ages.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
Decatur Ghost Walk
The Decatur Ghost Walk is a spooky and fun way to explore the city. Visitors can take a guided tour of the city’s haunted sites and hear spooky stories about Decatur’s past.
Wheeler Lake Cave
The Wheeler Lake Cave is a fascinating natural wonder located just outside of Decatur. Visitors can take a guided tour of the cave and explore its beautiful rock formations and underground streams.
Natural Wonders
Wheeler Lake
Wheeler Lake is a beautiful spot for boating, fishing, and other water activities. Visitors can rent boats or kayaks and explore the lake on their own, or take a guided tour.
Monte Sano State Park
Monte Sano State Park is a short drive from Decatur and offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. The park is home to several hiking trails, as well as a beautiful campground and picnic area.
Vibrant Nightlife
The Brick Deli & Tavern
The Brick Deli & Tavern is a popular spot for nightlife in Decatur. This cozy restaurant and bar offers live music on the weekends and has a great selection of craft beers and cocktails.
The Railyard
The Railyard is also a great spot for nightlife in Decatur. This renovated train depot features several bars and restaurants, as well as live music and other entertainment.
Local Markets
The Decatur Farmers Market
The Decatur Farmers Market is a great spot to find fresh produce, baked goods, and other local products. The market is open on Saturdays from 7 am to noon, and visitors can enjoy live music and other entertainment.
The Downtown Decatur Craft and Farmers Market
The Downtown Decatur Craft and Farmers Market is another great spot to find local products. This market is open on Saturdays from 9 am to 2 pm and features a variety of handmade crafts, baked goods, and other items.
Beaches and Mountains
Little River Canyon National Preserve
The Little River Canyon National Preserve is a short drive from Decatur and offers plenty of scenic views and outdoor activities. The park is home to a beautiful canyon and several waterfalls, as well as hiking trails and picnic areas.
Gulf Shores
Gulf Shores is a popular beach destination on the Gulf of Mexico. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and other beach activities, as well as explore the town’s many shops and restaurants.
Cultural Immersion
Alabama Jubilee Hot Air Balloon Classic
The Alabama Jubilee Hot Air Balloon Classic is an annual event that takes place in Decatur over Memorial Day weekend. Visitors can watch hot air balloons take off and land, as well as enjoy live music and other entertainment.
The Carnegie Visual Arts Center
The Carnegie Visual Arts Center is a non-profit organization that promotes the arts in Decatur. The center features several galleries and hosts a variety of art exhibits and events throughout the year.
Art and Music Scene
The Princess Theatre
The Princess Theatre is not only a historic landmark but is also a popular spot for live music and other entertainment. Visitors can catch a live performance or take a guided tour of the theater.
The Cook Museum of Natural Science
The Cook Museum of Natural Science is not only a great spot for families but is also home to a variety of art exhibits. The museum features several galleries that showcase art inspired by the natural world.
Walking Tours
The Historic Downtown Decatur Walking Tour
The Historic Downtown Decatur Walking Tour is a great way to explore the city’s rich history. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the city’s historic sites and landmarks, including the Old State Bank and the Dancy-Polk House.
The Delano Park Walking Tour
The Delano Park Walking Tour is another great way to explore Decatur’s history. This park is home to several historic buildings and landmarks, including the Delano Park Rose Garden and the Memorial Bridge.
Architectural Marvels
The Old State Bank