Tuscaloosa is an active city in the west-central of Alabama that has lots of history and active folks. This was once a state capital and it is now the home of the University of Alabama.
The city is also nicknamed T-Town and is well known for college football. It is located along the bank of the Black Warrior River and thus has wonderful sites and recreational activities.
From famously delicious restaurants to entertainment, sports, and even community events, Tuscaloosa is for everyone. Here are twenty entertaining things to do in Tuscaloosa the next time you are there.
1. Tuscaloosa Multi-Attraction Pass
Why spend more money visiting museums separately when you can opt for this money-saving ticket? For a minimal rate, the pass provides admission to five popular Tuscaloosa museums.
Moreover, you get information on an additional attraction that is free to the public. However, the ticket has a time limit. After purchase, you have 72 hours to visit as many attractions as you like.
Most people can participate since the Tuscaloosa Multi-Attraction Pass provides wheelchair-accessible transportation. The hours of the tour can fluctuate, so plan accordingly.
2. Watch A Football Game At The Bryant Denny Stadium
Being in the presence of this stadium allows you to feel the greatness and how historic this place is compared to others. This is one of those attractions in Tuscaloosa Alabama, which is a must-visit for someone nearby.
Here you will experience a good college football atmosphere with all the tailgating and the fans. It is a massive space and some guides will help you get to your seat.
Another unique part of the stadium is the walk around on the field. You can watch the whole game from the field but a fence separates you from the field. Alabama is probably the most dominating team in College Football history and it is a good reason to watch a game here.
3. Murder Mystery Detective Experience in Tuscaloosa AL
Put your detective skills on to solve a gripping case, murder on the streets of Tuscaloosa. This 2.5-hour crime-solving adventure is audio-based and you will stop by 10 mapped locations.
Explore the downtown area either through the Walking Map or by following a Driving Map on the city's outskirts. Once you choose, the starting point will be revealed. Stop by the location, listen to the audio, and try to gather clues and put the evidence together.
Finally, conclude and issue an arrest warrant. This experience is available any time after booking confirmation. The game is best played by adults only, since it contains mature content.
4. Attend Live Music At Mercedes-Benz Amphitheater
The Mercedes-Benz Amphitheater is another popular Tuscaloosa AL attractions mainly because of its location for live performances and community gatherings. It is an outdoor venue and is best preferred for its scenic riverside settings.
The gorgeous train tracks behind make the perfect scene when the train rolls by and the sun is setting. More than seven thousand people can attend performances that include live music and celebration of many festivals.
Everything here is clean. The restrooms are kept very well, there's staff everywhere helping out, and plenty of security. Learn about their events and ticket options from the Mercedes-Benz Amphitheater website.
5. Birmingham Civil Rights Tour- Riding & Walking
As one of the most populous Alabama counties, Birmingham is a hub for civil rights movements. However, someone new to this place might not be able to match landmarks to their significance on a self-led tour.
Thus, this package comes in handy. During this riding and walking trip, you will visit notable locations, including 16th Street Baptist Church, Kelly Ingram Park, the 1961 Freedom Riders attack site, and seven more sites.
Move between places with ease via air-conditioned vehicles, and gain intimate insights into the battle for civil rights from your guide. You can also explore these things to do in Birmingham.
6. Tour The Jemison-Van De Graaff Mansion
This historical site holds significance due to the period of its construction. This one was constructed between 1852 and 1862 and was one of the last and most elaborate great houses constructed in Alabama before the Civil War.
Many personalities were recorded to have resided in the mansion, including senators, lawyers, and physicists among others. Tours require no charge and it is usually done during the daytime from Tuesday to Saturday at 3:30 pm.
A tour guide breaks down the history and enlightens you about some interesting and relatable facts. The house is beautifully designed with antique furniture and some great art.
7. Wild Cave Adventure Tour
The Sims Cave Park, typically located one hour away from Tuscaloosa provides this small-group adventure tour. You will descend underground Bryant Mountain in a safe environment with a guide who is aware of the route.
The size of the group makes things easier and with just 10 people, enjoy an intimate experience. Following the guide, and your group, you will reach the underground waterfalls and see rock formations, fossils, and even wildlife.
The best of this tour is that it takes just half a day, so even those short on time can give it a try. All the necessary equipment including a headlamp is provided to you.
8. Take A Tuscaloosa River Walk
A beautiful space for walking, jogging, biking, and picnic possibilities when the weather is right. You will enjoy the foliage, bridges and most importantly the river. It is a great spot for just some quiet time outdoors.
The walking areas are paved and partially shaded. It is convent for several downtown Tuscaloosa hotels. When you get tired of walking, there are two fabulous restaurants: Another Broken Egg and River.
Around this walk, Alabama University is the main institution. The library, Saturday and Sunday farmers market, and at the end, the Tuscaloosa amphitheater is a must-visit.
9. Sip-n-Cycle Pedal Cruise in Montgomery
Montgomery, the capital city of Alabama is known for its history and many other attractions that draw people even from the nearby state. Join a unique boat party experience on the Alabama River with this cruise.
This is the only cycle boat in Alabama. You will start the journey after a safety briefing and then start pedaling upriver on the 12-station cycle bar and lounge.
A certified captain, the first mate, and a sound system are provided. You can bring your food and drink to party the way you want. Besides, there are many other things to do in Montgomery, you might want to check.
10. Take A Campus Tour of The University of Alabama
The University of Alabama allows visitors to indulge in many activities inside its premises. One such is the campus tour led by the current students.
This helps to get a broad perspective of the university facilities and its culture. The tour usually lasts for two hours and it includes an information section and stops by locations such as residential halls and academic buildings.
You can visit with a group of 10 people. They also offer an opportunity for the virtual tour in case you cannot make it for the physical. Among the campus landmarks that you are certain to encounter include Denny Chimes, Amelia Gayle Gorgas Library, Bryant-Denny Stadium, and The Quad.
11. Alabama Gulf Coast Dolphin Cruise
Expect to have a lot of fun and witness exciting dolphins on this tour. The cruise takes place in the Gulf of Mexico from Orange Beach.
Take in the stunning view of the Alabama coastline while spotting Atlantic bottlenose dolphins in their habitat. If dolphins are in a cheerful mood, they are likely to surf on the boat wake when you are cruising; thus ensure you have a camera at hand.
Besides, you might see some other animals such as crabs, and hermit. Multiple departure times make this tour suitable for any schedule.
12. Stop By The Tuscaloosa Farmers' Market
Visiting this market on Saturday is one of the best things to do in Tuscaloosa Alabama. Many diverse vendors contribute to the offer of specialty, as well as the local fruits and vegetables.
Locally sourced produce is important to the farmer as well as to the economy as it will lead to more food production. In addition, homemade pies and cakes, jams and jellies, pickles, and chow-chow are mostly liked by people.
The craftsman-made items like the plaques and jewelry make this local market the place to be. After browsing the booths, take a stroll along the riverside. If hungry, grab some favorites from nearby restaurants and enjoy the view.
13. USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park Admission Ticket
The USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park presents the American WWII history and exciting adventures. It is situated in Mobile.
With an entrance ticket, you are free to take a self-guided tour of two National Historic Monuments including the USS Alabama and the USS Drum submarine. Take your time and explore the attractions throughly.
Enhance your visit with a look at other artifacts in the 100-acre park. The park has tanks, submarines, and even a flight simulator. Plus, there are beautiful picnic areas and a gift shop to grab souvenirs.
14. Snap Pictures Around The Capitol Park
It is a small but very cool park with ruins. The place is picture-worthy, especially for a special occasion such as weddings, plays, and other occasions.
It is located right near the University of Alabama. There are covered bench tables to sit at. There is also a little gravel trail that goes around the park that you can walk.
Several smaller trees around provide great shade for a picnic. You will have a great time to step back in time and imagine who walked this structure in the early 1800's. It is free to all and is a perfect place to go for backdrops for family.
15. Dine In At The River
The River is one of the best Tuscaloosa restaurants serving Southern plates and local beers. The place is stylish with rustic surrounds and patio seats.
The eatery is right by the Black Warrior River, so you get a beautiful view while you eat. The food choices are great as is the ambiance and service. It is a preferred spot for a date night.
They have an extensive, very nice wine list with some interesting choices from smaller wineries. The piece markups are also reasonable. Some menu favorites are the flatbread, the museum appetizer, the fried chicken, the fish specials, and the peanut butter pie to finish.
16. SureStay By Best Western Tuscaloosa Southeast
This is one of those hotels in Tuscaloosa that boasts excellent quality and value for money. They provide everything you need and nothing you don't.
The hotel is favored for its serene and inviting decor with attentive and friendly service. It is located at 4700 Doris Pate Dr, and to get from the Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport, it takes 49 minutes of drive.
They make it feel like you are staying with family. The beds are comfortable, the pillows are great, and many options for breakfast. Some other amenities are free parking, free breakfast, children's television networks, free WiFi, taxi service, and more.
17. View Different Shows At Bama Theater
Bama Theater is a venue for seeing any type of show. Come and sit under the stars and enjoy anything from a thrilling musical, dance recital, comedy act, or rock show, to an independent film.
The Bama Art House Film Series is one of the popular events. Originally, this place was constructed as one of the Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal. Later it turned out to be a popular art center.
The theater promotes local arts and supports their works. You will get an unobstructed view even if you sit in the lower rows. Purchase a ticket or book the theater for any event at the Bama Theater page.
18. Go To Loosa Brews With Friends
Loosa Brews is a fantastic bar with a huge selection of beer, ciders, wines, and other drinks. It's a great place to bring friends or people visiting town to give a sense of how Tuscaloosa feels.
There are fun games to play and a great porch for hanging out and having a couple of brews. You can bring outside food to enjoy with beer. They also have beer and bottles of wine for retail sale.
You will have a great time enjoying the ambiance and the variety of flavorful beers offered. The staff are courteous and knowledgeable, ensuring a pleasant experience. The place might look small front from the outside, but is huge inside and has so much to offer.
19. Take Kids To Children's Hands-On Museum
The museum encourages learning through play. You are encouraged to touch, feel, and play. There are 26 exhibit areas and the place caters to newborns through age 13.
The basement floor has a lot going on with plenty of exhibits that could cater to toddlers through kids under age 10. Each section is decorated well with a theme.
You will have a lot of unique options to try, such as milking a cow, climbing into a beaver lodge, operating a tug boat, and working at an old-fashioned market. The middle floor has a pretty reconstructed Native American village. As a result, visiting here will be one of the fun things to do in Tuscaloosa AL.
20. Try Outdoor Sports At The Lake Nicol
If you are wondering what to do in Tuscaloosa, then visit Lake Nicol. It is a great outdoor choice for numerous activities like paddleboarding, hiking, or swimming.
Moreover, the well-kept surrounding offers a perfect setting to relax and meditate by the river. Normally, paddleboarding for an hour costs $15 and it will help you explore the lake better.
There are cliffs, islands, and even wildlife to see. The lake is usually free from motor traffic and on weekdays you might find the place to yourself only. One can also hike in the area but beware that there is a steep fine for jumping off the cliffs into the lake.
