The 10 Best Things To Do In Alabama In August, 2023

Pros of Visiting Alabama in August

As we enter another spectacular month for the Not Your Average Bucket List podcast, we're covering all the best things to do in August 2023. For anyone who hasn't yet heard of our podcast, Not Your Average Bucket List is an audio adventure by OnlyInYourState dedicated to unearthing hidden gems across the United States. For this monthly series, our two hosts will help you find the best things to do in Alabama for August 2023!

So, are you ready to dive into a month of exciting things in Alabama? First, if you want to listen to the episode, make sure to check it out on Spotify or Apple Podcasts:

Top Alabama Attractions & Events in August

Looking for the best Alabama attractions and events in August? We've rounded up the ten best things to do in August 2023, from restaurants to outdoor fun.

Whether it's exploring hidden gems, delving into history and culture, or uncovering off-the-beaten-path adventures, our writers are the experts within their state. Each list is curated and checked by our state writers to include local attractions, must-visit spots, and insider tips, making us the go-to authority for fellow adventurers seeking authentic experiences each month. So without further ado, in no particular order...

1. Enjoy a shopping extravaganza at the World’s Longest Yard Sale.

The World's Longest Yard Sale in northeastern Alabama, known as the 127 Yard Sale, runs from August 3-7. Spanning 690 miles, shoppers can find antiques, furniture, local produce, and more along the Lookout Mountain Parkway. With food vendors and live entertainment, it's a treasure hunter's paradise. Beginning in Gadsden and ending in Chattanooga, the sale stretches through six states to Addison, Michigan. Alabama alone boasts over 1,000 vendors. Don't miss this annual bargain-hunting extravaganza!

2. Visit Alabama's historic Swann Covered Bridge.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places on August 20, 1981, come enjoy this 324-foot-long bridge in Hayden, Alabama. The bridge was originally constructed in 1933 and spans the scenic Locust Fork of the Black Warrior River. It was built using the Town Lattice truss design, a popular design for covered bridges during the 19th and early 20th centuries.

3. Have a blast in America’s first wave pool at Point Mallard Waterpark.

Point Mallard Waterpark is a popular attraction in Alabama, located in Decatur. It offers a range of water-based activities, including thrilling water slides, a lazy river, wave pool, and a children's play area. The park also features a campground, golf course, and other recreational facilities, making it a perfect destination for family fun and outdoor adventures.

4. Attend the Fyffee UFO Days Festival

Fyffe, a small Alabama town atop Sand Mountain in DeKalb County, gained national attention in 1989 for numerous UFO sightings, earning it the nickname "UFO Capital of Alabama." Today, it celebrates these sightings with an annual UFO festival. Despite its quirky name, "UFO" here stands for "Unforgettable Family Outing." The Fyffe UFO Days Festival, held at Fyffe Town Park, began in 2005 and occurs on the last Saturday of August.

5. Visit the USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park

The USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park is a historical site in Mobile, Alabama. It showcases the battleship USS Alabama, submarine USS Drum, and other military aircraft and equipment. Visitors can explore these vessels and learn about their role in World War II. The park provides a fascinating glimpse into naval history and honors the service of military personnel.

6. Check out Alabama’s Highest Point!

Alabama's highest point is Cheaha Mountain, standing at an elevation of 2,413 feet (734 meters) above sea level. Located in Cheaha State Park, it offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Talladega National Forest. The mountain is a popular destination for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying nature. It serves as a prominent landmark and an excellent spot to experience the beauty of Alabama's landscape.

7. Cool off with a cone from Treats So Sweet in East Birmingham

Cool down this summer by visiting Birmingham's latest ice cream parlor, Treats So Sweet. Recently opened in mid-July, it serves all the classic flavors and delightful specialties like dreamsicle, banana, and macchiato. Indulge in cones, shakes, and don't miss their scrumptious baked goods, including candy apples, caramel apples, cupcakes, and homemade cakes.

8. Enjoy the sweetest summer event: The Franklin County Watermelon Festival

Mark your calendars for August 18-19 as Russellville hosts the delightful Watermelon Festival, featuring juicy treats and fantastic music. Enjoy arts, crafts, watermelon contests, car shows, food vendors, kids' activities, games, and live entertainment. Free watermelon samples are available, and entry is free. Don't miss this sweet and melodic summer event!

9. Attend the annual Lexington Truck and Tractor Pull.

The Lexington Truck and Tractor Pull, sanctioned by the Mid-South Pullers Association, brings thrilling engine power to North Alabama annually. With seven sanctioned classes each night, the event showcases stock gas trucks on Friday and stock diesel trucks on Saturday. Held at Lexington Motorsports Park, the event takes place on the second Friday & Saturday in August.

10. Tour historic Muscle Shoals Sound Studio

Tour the Muscle Shoals Sound Studio, located at 3614 Jackson Highway in Sheffield, Alabama, if you’re a music lover or a history buff. Tours take place every hour on the half-hour starting at 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and vary in price depending on the guest’s age. During the tour, you'll get a chance to explore the iconic recording studio, learn about its rich musical history, and see the space where numerous hit records were made by legendary artists.

Best Alabama Swimming Holes to Visit in August

As always, stay tuned next month when we cover the best things to do in Alabama in September.

Looking to keep this August adventure going? Check out our list of the 15 absolute best places to visit in August across the United States, and prepare to be inspired.