The 3 Most Colorful Places You Can Find in Alabama 

Color can be found all around us, and can inspire us to seek out the shades of our state. Alabama isn’t a stranger to color — the pops of crimson that flood the state’s corners and the rainbow of colors that pop up every spring when the wildflowers bloom in Fairhope only scratch the surface. The most colorful places in Alabama are striking and speak to the vibrancy of the communities that fill the state. Take a trip to see the color wheel IRL in Alabama, and be sure to snap some pictures along the way.

1. DeSoto Falls

DeSoto Falls is one of the best natural wonders in Alabama for a reason. Visit in the fall to see a beautiful canvas of bright colors, with trees that surround the waterfalls boasting shades of red, orange, and yellows. The crashing waters flow into an aqua pool of water, and is framed by greyish cliffs. The reflection of the trees on the water gives this waterfall area a sort of meditative quality, where you can take in all of the fall vibes.

2. Magnolia Springs

Magnolia Springs is a town that lies along the Magnolia River in South Alabama where you can walk through streets lined with vibrant green leaves and moss-wrapped giant oak and magnolia trees, making it one of the most colorful places in Alabama. What’s even better, is that this small town is close to Gulf State Park, which is home to freshwater marshes and coastal hardwood swamps. You'll feel like you’ve just stepped into a Southern landscape painting while exploring the backcountry. 

3. Rainbow Wall, Birmingham

The mural scene in Birmingham is alive and well, and this rainbow wall is what photo op dreams are made of. This rainbow wall stretches 500 feet long, and runs parallel to Morris Avenue and the railroad tracks. You can see this wall while exploring the Alabama Mural Trail, which takes visitors on a journey throughout the state’s most inspiring and visually appealing murals that bring an infectious energy to the spaces that they occupy.

The Story Behind The Rainbow Wall’s Colorful Look

Located in the heart of downtown Birmingham, this mural was painted by various volunteers to recognize Birmingham as a city of color for its vibrance, art, and diversity. The wall is a nod to community involvement and is also a bold testament to the beautiful things that can come out of working together to add brightness and break down barriers in everyday life.

When to Visit for the Best Color and Light

While you can enjoy the colors of Alabama at any time, knowing when to visit certain places to capture the best view or picture could be a helpful tool. For instance, in the spring, coastal Alabama comes alive with beautiful blooms. South Mobile boasts vibrant azaleas, while Fairhope is dotted with tulips, daffodils, wisteria, and more. In terms of light, choose spots that enhance the angles of what you’re photographing. Additionally, the time of day you’re taking some Instagram-worthy shots matters. Try to catch the sunset glow bathe the skies of Dauphin Island, or see the shadows bounce off the cliffs of Dismals Canyon.  

No matter what kind of color you’d like to invite into your life, Alabama’s vibrancy, whether from its nature, its people, its spaces, or more, can make you feel like you’re exploring a living painting. From the turquoise waters of the Gulf Shores to the fiery fall colors of its state parks, the shades of the state are waiting to greet you. 

Plan a vacation that’s anything but dull using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner!