Looking for some day trips in Alabama? If you’re feeling bored, why not look into some of the many must-visit attractions in Alabama? One of the best ways to pass the time is by taking a quick road trip. Try running an internet search for “day trips near me in Alabama” and look at all that comes up. There’s so much to do in the Cotton State. Explore an abandoned movie set, hike the state’s tallest mountain, rummage through lost luggage in search of a bargain – the fun is endless here. Check out these Alabama day trips if you need a fun activity!

1. Take a walk on the wild side and visit the Birmingham Zoo.
Birmingham Zoo, 2630 Cahaba Rd, Birmingham, AL 35223, USA
wikimedia commons
The Birmingham Zoo is one of the top animal attractions in the southeast. They've got 550 animals and endangered species from six different continents. Lions, jaguars, elephants, and more can be seen here. They have some pretty fantastic holiday events as well. The zoo has been one of the top must-visit attractions in Alabama since it opened in 1955. Learn more about what you can do in a day trip from Auburn AL to Birmingham Zoo.
2. Visit Ave Maria Grotto - a four-acre park on the grounds of St. Bernard Abbey.
Ave Maria Grotto, 1600 St Bernard Dr, Cullman, AL 35055, USA
wikipedia
This day trip near me in Cullman is a must! The grotto holds 125 miniature reproductions of some of the world's most famous religious buildings. Ave Maria Grotto is known throughout the world as "Jerusalem in Miniature." As you walk through the beautiful outdoor trail, you'll see famous structures like the Basilica in Lourdes. It's made of rocks and various discarded items like shells and marbles. Discover more about Ave Maria Grotto.
3. Spend a day of hiking in the beautiful Bankhead National Forest.
Bankhead National Forest, 1070 AL-33, Double Springs, AL 35553, USA
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Alabama's got four national forests, so if you're looking for outdoor fun in your Alabama day trips, there's plenty to be had. One of the best is the William B. Bankhead National Forest, a sprawling 181,000-acre beauty in the northwestern corner of the state. Check out the waterfalls in Bankhead National Forest.
4. Explore the Birmingham Museum of Art to see one of the finest art collections in the Southeast.
Birmingham Museum of Art, 2000 Reverend Abraham Woods Jr Boulevard, Birmingham, AL 35203, USA
wikipedia
We feel like Alabama gets a bit of a bad rep as uncultured, but anyone who lives here knows that couldn't be further from the truth. This museum is one of the best day trips in Alabama, as you can explore over 24,000 works of art from all over the world. Take a look at other things to do in Birmingham.
5. Drive to the fictional town of Spectre from Tim Burton's smash hit "Big Fish."
Jackson Lake Island, Cypress Ln, Millbrook, AL 36054, USA
Andy Montgomery/Flickr
Fans of films won't want to miss this day trip from Auburn AL! This fictional town is an abandoned film set situated on an island along the banks of the Alabama River. This relaxing paradise is privately owned, but visitors are welcome for a small fee (and you can even go camping there). Learn more about what you can do on Jackson Island.
6. Take a swim in one of Alabama's many lakes.
Alabama, USA
flickr/Cheryl Reed
Martin, Weiss, Wheeler, Guntersville...the list of lakes and day trips to see them is almost never-ending. We've got over 100 lakes in Alabama, so there's plenty to explore Get more information on Alabama lakes.
7. Spend the day at Cheaha State Park and climb Alabama's tallest mountain.
Leah R/Trip Advisor
Cheaha Mountain is almost 2,400 feet high! And it's got some incredible views, making for one of the loveliest day trips in Alabama.

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8. Take a tour of FAME Recording Studios in Muscle Shoals.
Fame Recording Studios, 603 Avalon Ave, Muscle Shoals, AL 35661, USA
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This place was instrumental in developing that famous Muscle Shoals sound. Names like Aretha Franklin, the Rolling Stones, and the Allman Brothers Band recorded hits here. Learn more about what you can do in a visit to Muscle Shoals.
9. Take a scenic drive along the Natchez Trace Parkway.
Natchez Trace Parkway, Natchez, Mississippi, USA
wikipedia
This scenic road in Alabama leads all the way from Mississippi to Tennessee. You'll see such beautiful terrain in these 444 miles! Get more details on the Natchez Trace Parkway, a must-do day trip from Auburn, AL.
10. Visit the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville to learn all about NASA's latest innovations.
Space and Rocket Center, Huntsville, AL 35805, USA
wikipedia
It's easy to see why this is one of the most popular tourist attractions and Alabama day trips around. If you're making a list of family-friendly fun in Alabama, this should be near the top. It is actually the largest space museum on Earth. Discover more about the U.S. Space and Rocket Center.
11. Spend the day playing a round of golf on one of Alabama's many beautiful golf courses.
Alabama, USA
RTJ Golf Trail
And you can also find many resorts with golf courses in Alabama, which are also great day trips.
12. Take a trip to Scottsboro to rummage through the aisles of the Unclaimed Baggage Center, aka "Land of Lost Luggage."
Unclaimed Baggage, 509 W Willow St, Scottsboro, AL 35768, USA
Anne Bet/Google Maps
This is a unique place and you never know what you'll find here. It's a giant thrift store that sells items that were taken from unclaimed luggage at airports and train stations. With 40,000 square feet of shopping space, you could spend all day here! Find out more about the Unclaimed Baggage Center.
13. Spend the day exploring vineyards and tasting wines in Alabama's wine country.
Alabama, USA
wikimedia commons
Find the best wineries and breweries in Alabama.
14. Take a drive to the coast to enjoy a relaxing day at the beach.
Alabama, USA
flickr/John Tuggle
Take a look at these gorgeous beaches in Alabama. They are perfect choices for day trips in Alabama.

What are some of your favorite day trips in Alabama? Share your picks in the comments!

And what about when the sun goes down? Check out the nightlife in Alabama.

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More to Explore

Day Trips Near Me In Alabama

Lisa Sammons | September 16, 2021

What are some must-visit attractions in Alabama?

There are many must-visit attractions in Alabama. Whether you're looking for indoor activities on a poor-weather day, want to enjoy the beaches or waterfalls on one of our many beautiful days, or just looking for a fun day trip in Alabama, we've got something for you!

What are some cheap attractions in Alabama?

There is plenty to do here if you are looking for cheap attractions in Alabama. The Birmingham Museum of Art has free admission and it's one of the top art museums in the southeast region.

What are some great Alabama road trips?

There are so many scenic roads that are great for Alabama road trips even if you don't have a destination in mind. Choose your favorite, hop into the car, and get ready for a fantastic Alabama day trip!

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