Even if there are only days left to summer, there is still time to check off these essential Alabama summer bucket list activities. Here are the six most quintessential summertime things you can do just about anywhere in the state, with one destination suggestion for each. You'll also find some links to more extensive lists of places for each activity if you want help finding places a little closer to you. Lifelong Alabamians and newcomers alike strive to do each of these things at least once every summer. While all the sunshine may make the days super hot, we sure don't mind the extra daylight hours to enjoy this time to the fullest.
1. Cool Off In A Swimming Hole
Alabama is legendary for its sticky summers, and nothing beats that kind of summer heat like a dip in one of our cool, refreshing swimming holes. In Pinson, you'll find one of the best at Turkey Creek Nature Preserve. It has everything you need in a great swimming hole: crystal-clear waters, places for picnics, and many trails to explore if you want to work up a sweat before taking a plunge.
2. Spend A Day On A Lake
Alabama’s many lakes are a major draw during the summer months for general recreation and lots of tournament fishing. For an especially memorable day on the water, head to Weiss Lake, known as the "Crappie Capital of the World." Hire a local outfitter like Weiss Lake Crappie Times Guide Service and try your luck at catching this prized fish. You’ll be hooked on the beautiful scenery and the thrill of the catch.
3. Shop For Farm-Fresh Produce
Summer is the season for fresh, delicious produce. If you see a proper farmers market, roadside farm stand or crudely drawn sign for sweet corn, you ought to know better than to drive on by. Stop, every time. You'll be glad you did! Some of the best fruits of summer in the South are juicy peaches, and there’s no better place to find them than Peach Park in Clanton. This longtime farm stand is a tradition for many generations of families. You'll find delicious peaches, homemade ice cream, and every peach-themed souvenir imaginable.
4. Do Day At A Water Park
Whoosh down waterslides, float along lazy river rides, and catch the swells in a wave pool at one of Alabama's many water parks. A great one that's located centrally in the state, Alabama Adventure & Splash Adventure in Bessemer is a family-friendly spot that's perfect for cooling off and making summer memories you'll treasure for years to come.
5. Host a Classic Southern BBQ
No Alabama summer is complete without a mouthwatering barbecue feast. While we have many accomplished backyard barbecue masters among our citizenry, you don't have to have one in the family to serve up some of the best. You can keep your grill clean and skip the mess of preparation by ordering from one of our famed barbecue joints statewide. A longtime legend with multiple locations throughout the state, Dreamland BBQ is always a safe bet – especially for its succulent ribs and tangy sauce.
6. Catch a Movie Under the Stars
For a nostalgic summer evening, make like Danny and Sandy from the classic movie "Grease" and load up your ride for a trip to a drive-in. (Unlike the movie, choose your company carefully so you aren't stranded, branded a fool, and wondering what they will say Monday at school). Alabama still has a handful of these old-school drive-ins left. A favorite for Northeast Alabamians is the 411 Twin Drive In located in Centre, which is about 25 miles northeast of Gadsden. The 411 shows double features on two screens while you watch from the comfort of your car munching popcorn, candy, and other snack bar goodies.
And there you have it: A definitive activity guide to make sure your summer season has just enough adventure, good food, and memories to carry you through the cooler temps ahead. Have you checked these activities off your list this year? There's still time before the days become shorter and trees put on their fall finery. Let us know your favorites on this list and any other summer must-dos it may have inspired. If you're hitting the road on or before Labor Day for these and other adventures, check out our road-trip essentials guide to make sure you are best prepared for your trip!
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