The Heart And Soul Of Alabama Is The Small Towns And These 7 Have The Best Downtown Areas

Alabama is home to many small towns with amazing downtown areas. In fact, these special areas of town are what makes them so special. In most downtown areas of small towns, you'll find unique shops, independently-owned restaurants, historic churches, and so much more. Listed below are seven small towns with some of the best walkable downtowns in Alabama. You'll want to visit them all.

1. Fort Payne

Fort Payne is the county seat of DeKalb County, Alabama. Although this North Alabama town is well known for its many outdoor attractions such as Little River Canyon National Preserve, its downtown area is also worthy of a mention. While exploring the town's downtown area, you'll discover a variety of restaurants, shops, a theatre, and more.

2. Monroeville

Monroeville is the county seat of Monroe County, Alabama. Because of its association with Harper Lee, Truman Capote, and other award-winning writers/authors, it's known as "The Literary Capital of Alabama." Monroeville has one of the most charming downtown areas in Alabama. It features colorful murals, whimsical statues, and more. Its main attraction is of course the Old Monroe County Courthouse, which is home to the courtroom where the film scenes from Harper Lee's "To Kill a Mockingbird" were based on. Today, this historic courthouse is operated as a museum.

3. Tuscumbia

Tuscumbia is the county seat of Colbert County and is home to one of Alabama's best downtown areas. This special area of town offers a variety of restaurants and retail establishments. Many historic homes also line the streets. Three of the downtown area's main attractions are Spring Park, Ivy Green: The Birthplace of Helen Keller, and the Tuscumbia Depot Museum.

4. Fairhope

Fairhope is a lovely town that's located on the eastern shore of Mobile Bay in Baldwin County, Alabama. Over the years, this town has become a popular tourist spot thanks to its downtown area, which features beautiful tree-lined streets and its popular French Quarter. This section of the downtown area includes a variety of food and retail establishments, and it's the perfect destination for a day trip. The town has been called the "third best" in the South, but it's always Number 1 in our hearts!

5. Greenville

Hailed as the most charming town in Alabama, Greenville is the county seat of Butler County and is nicknamed the "The Camellia City." Its downtown area features everything from historic churches to a historic train depot. Restaurants and shops are also located in this special area of Greenville.

6. Eufaula

Eufaula is located in Barbour County, Alabama, and overlooks beautiful Lake Eufaula. Each year, Lake Eufaula attracts numerous people from all across the Southeast for its incredible bass fishing opportunities. Thanks to its wonderful shops and restaurants, Eufaula's downtown area is a popular gathering spot among locals and visitors.

7. Mentone

Mentone is a charming town that's located atop of Lookout Mountain in DeKalb County, Alabama. With less than 500 residents, it's also one of the state's smallest towns. Each year, many people visit this mountain town for its relaxing atmosphere and incredible views. Its downtown area features an array of charming shops, restaurants, and more.

Have you ever visited any of these small Alabama towns? If so, did you explore their Main Streets? What towns do you think have the best walkable downtowns in Alabama? Let us know in the comments below.