Alexa Gordon

Alexa Gordon – first trip to the USA in 2011 I first arrived in the USA after years of dreaming about this country, planning to spend just one month there. That month changed my life. The diversity of landscapes, the dynamism of cities, and the openness of people made me come back again and again. For the past 14 years, I have explored the USA from coast to coast – from New York skyscrapers to California beaches, from the Great Lakes to Arizona canyons. I've traveled by car along legendary highways, crossed states by train, and explored national parks on foot. The USA is a country of contrasts, where each state has its unique character. Here, bustling metropolises coexist with quiet provincial towns, technology hubs and untouched nature, historical landmarks and modern entertainment. I help travelers discover the real America beyond tourist clichés, tailoring routes to specific interests. Over the years, I have developed more than 400 individual journeys and conducted hundreds of tours across different parts of the country. Let me create the perfect USA itinerary for you, taking into account your interests, pace, and preferences.

Hersheypark

Epcot Orlando

Moab, Utah

Alabama

Welcome to Alabama, a state rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re drawn by the allure of its scenic landscapes, the depth of its historical sites, or the charm of its vibrant cities, Alabama offers a diverse range of experiences. From the southern beaches to the Appalachian Mountains, this guide will help you navigate the best that Alabama has to offer.

Major Regions and Their Highlights

Northern Alabama (Tech North)

Cheaha Mountain and Cheaha State Park
Located in the Appalachian Mountains, Cheaha Mountain is the highest point in Alabama. The state park offers stunning views, hiking trails, and opportunities for outdoor recreation. Don’t miss the chance to experience the breathtaking vistas from the lookout points.

Little River Canyon
Known for its dramatic landscapes and serene beauty, Little River Canyon provides excellent opportunities for hiking and nature exploration. The canyon’s waterfalls and river views are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

U.S. Space & Rocket Center
Located in Huntsville, this renowned center showcases the history of space exploration. With interactive exhibits and impressive rocket displays, it’s a must-visit for those interested in space and technology.

Alabama

Central Alabama (Cotton Center)

Freedom Riders Museum
This museum in Montgomery honors the bravery of the Freedom Riders who risked their lives to challenge segregation in the South. It provides a deep dive into the civil rights movement and its impact on Alabama.

Birmingham Museum of Art
One of the largest art museums in the Southeast, the Birmingham Museum of Art boasts an extensive collection of artworks from around the world. Its exhibits span various periods and styles, offering something for every art lover.

Montgomery Historic District
Explore the rich history of Montgomery through its well-preserved historic buildings and monuments. The district is a living testament to the city’s past, with sites that highlight its significance in American history.

Alabama

Southern Alabama (Swampy South)

Gulf Shores Beaches
The Gulf Shores area is renowned for its beautiful beaches and lively atmosphere. Whether you’re looking to relax on the sand or engage in water sports, the beaches here offer a vibrant coastal experience.

Dauphin Island
This charming island offers a mix of natural beauty and historical significance. Explore its beaches, visit the historic Fort Gaines, and enjoy the serene environment of this barrier island.

Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge
A haven for nature lovers, this refuge provides opportunities for wildlife observation and outdoor activities. It’s a great spot to experience Alabama’s natural landscapes and diverse ecosystems.

Attractions and Activities

Mountain Regions:

Red River Gorge National Park
Known for its stunning rock formations and scenic trails, Red River Gorge is ideal for hiking and rock climbing. The park’s natural beauty is a major draw for outdoor enthusiasts.
White Mountain
Offering seasonal activities and picturesque views, White Mountain is perfect for year-round adventures. Enjoy hiking, sightseeing, and outdoor recreation.

Historical Sites:

Rosanne Clark House
This historical house provides insight into Alabama’s architectural heritage. Its preserved design offers a glimpse into the past.
Civil War Museum
The museum explores Alabama’s role in the Civil War through exhibits and artifacts. It’s an important site for understanding the state’s historical context.

Nature Reserves and Parks:

Chattahoochee National Forest
This forest is a great destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and camping. Its diverse landscapes offer a range of recreational opportunities.
Winkler Nature Preserve
A tranquil spot for nature walks and bird watching, Winkler Nature Preserve is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in Alabama’s natural beauty.

Alabama

When to Visit Alabama

There’s no bad time to visit Alabama, but the best time depends on your interests and the region you plan to explore:

Southern Beaches: The peak season is from June to September, but December can still be pleasant for beach visits, though swimming might be limited.
Appalachian Mountains: Enjoyable year-round with moderate weather, but check specific conditions for activities like rafting and wildlife spotting.
Civil Rights Sightseeing: Spring and autumn are ideal, with winter being a viable option if dressed warmly.

Accommodation

Urban Areas

Birmingham

Luxury Hotels: The Grand Bohemian Hotel, with its upscale amenities and artistic design, is a top choice for a luxurious stay. The Elyton Hotel offers a blend of modern comfort and historic charm.
Boutique Hotels: The Redmont Hotel, known for its distinctive style and personalized service, and the Hampton Inn & Suites provide a more intimate experience with easy access to Birmingham’s attractions.
Budget-Friendly Options: For more economical stays, consider the La Quinta Inn & Suites or the Comfort Inn & Suites, which offer comfortable accommodations without breaking the bank.

Montgomery

Historic Hotels: The Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa at the Convention Center provides elegance and a central location, while the Lattice Inn offers a charming and historic atmosphere.
Mid-Range Hotels: The Hampton Inn Montgomery-East Chase and the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Montgomery provide comfortable stays with convenient amenities.
Affordable Stays: For budget-conscious travelers, the Quality Inn & Suites and the Days Inn by Wyndham offer basic amenities and value.

Alabama

Coastal Areas

Gulf Shores

Beachside Resorts: The Turquoise Place offers luxury with private balconies and direct beach access, while The Island House Hotel provides a more relaxed, beachfront experience.
Vacation Rentals: For a more home-like stay, consider renting a beach house or condo through platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo. These rentals often provide full kitchens and spacious living areas, ideal for families or longer stays.

Dauphin Island

Vacation Homes: Dauphin Island has numerous rental homes and cottages that offer privacy and proximity to the beach. Popular options include beachfront properties and those with amenities like private pools.
Local Inns: The Dauphin Island Inn provides a convenient and budget-friendly option for travelers looking to stay close to the island’s attractions.

Rural Regions

Cheaha State Park

Cabins: Cheaha State Park offers rustic cabins with modern conveniences, ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying comfortable accommodations.
Lodges: The park also features lodges with stunning views of the surrounding mountains, perfect for a peaceful retreat.

Alabama

Culinary Highlights

Southern Staples

Shrimp and Grits

A quintessential Southern dish, shrimp and grits combines tender shrimp with creamy, buttery grits. Many local restaurants offer their own take on this classic, often with a touch of spice.

Barbecue

Alabama is renowned for its barbecue, particularly its pulled pork and ribs. The state has a variety of barbecue styles, with sauces ranging from sweet to tangy. Notable spots include Dreamland Bar-B-Que in Birmingham and Saw’s BBQ.

Pecan Pie

For dessert, don’t miss pecan pie, a Southern favorite made with a rich, sweet filling and crunchy pecans. Many local bakeries and restaurants serve this delicious treat.

Regional Specialties

Catfish

Fried catfish is another Southern staple, often served with sides like coleslaw and cornbread. Many local diners and restaurants pride themselves on their catfish dishes.

Boiled Peanuts

A unique Southern snack, boiled peanuts are a popular treat in Alabama. They are typically seasoned and boiled until tender, offering a savory, satisfying snack.

Food Festivals

National Shrimp Festival

Held annually in Gulf Shores, this festival celebrates all things shrimp, featuring a variety of shrimp dishes, live music, and arts and crafts vendors.

Birmingham BBQ Festival

This event showcases Birmingham’s barbecue scene with tastings, cooking competitions, and live entertainment, making it a great opportunity to sample different styles of barbecue.

Alabama

Transportation

Getting There

Major Airports

Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM): The largest airport in Alabama, located in Birmingham, offers numerous domestic flights and serves as a primary gateway to the state.
Huntsville International Airport (HSV): Serving northern Alabama, this airport provides flights to major U.S. cities and is convenient for exploring the northern regions.
Mobile Regional Airport (MOB): Located in southern Alabama, Mobile’s airport connects travelers to various destinations and is ideal for those heading to the Gulf Coast.

Getting Around

Rental Cars

Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore Alabama, especially given the state’s diverse regions and attractions. Major rental companies are available at all major airports and in larger cities.

Public Transportation

Buses: Public bus services are available in larger cities like Birmingham and Montgomery. They provide a cost-effective way to navigate urban areas but may have limited coverage in rural regions.
Trains: Amtrak services offer train routes through Alabama, connecting it to other parts of the U.S. While trains can be a scenic option for travel, they are less flexible than driving.

Local Taxis and Ride-Sharing

In urban areas, local taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available and provide convenient transportation for short distances and city exploration.

Practical Tips

Safety: Alabama is generally safe for tourists, but be mindful of local weather conditions and follow any travel advisories.
Respect Local Culture: Be aware of and respect local customs and traditions. Engaging with the community positively enhances your travel experience.

Alabama