Perfect Fall Road Trip in Alabama
Alabama comes alive when fall foliage makes its appearance—a wonderful time for a road trip. The state is full of beautiful scenery and attractions that you’ll only discover if you’re looking for them. This epic fall road trip in Alabama will let you experience some of the best things about the season and help you create a truly unforgettable event.
Filter-Coffee Parlor, Birmingham, AL
Filter-Coffee Parlor is the place for all your coffee and tea needs. Enjoy a delicious cup of house-roasted coffee or exotic teas while sinking your teeth into a freshly baked treat. Plus, Filter-Coffee Parlor stands out for its commitment to the global community and sustainability. Come for the coffee, stay for the cause!
Ruffner Mountain, Birmingham, AL
Tucked away just outside the city lies Ruffner Mountain in all its rich fall splendor. This urban nature preserve is free to explore and features 14 miles of trails throughout the mountain. There are a couple scenic overlooks just a couple miles from the parking areas that will give you the perfect views of the area’s magnificent fall colors.
Irondale Cafe, Irondale, AL
You might recognize this little eatery if you’ve seen the movie “Fried Green Tomatoes,” which provided its “15 minutes of fame.” Here you’ll find some of the tastiest and good-for-you southern cuisine around, using locally sourced produce and meats and providing you with plenty of options. Nestled right beside the train tracks in downtown Irondale, it’s a great place to fuel up while you warm up on your fall road trip, and might easily become your new favorite lunch spot.
Mize Mill Falls, Double Springs, AL
Hike to Mize Mill Falls, just off Cranal Road, east of the Sipsey River. You'll hear the waterfall's thunder long before you reach the trailhead. Once you've arrived across from the dirt road, take a steep downhill path for a fun adventure. There's even a rope and scramble down to the falls. Small children and dogs won't be able to join you unless they get a lift from a grownup. Finish the trek with a creek crossing to get back to the flat area in front of the falls.
Oxford Festival of Lights, Oxford, AL
November 22 - December 24, 2024
Witness a winter wonderland like no other at Choccolocco Park! Enjoy the Festival of Lights, a spectacular drive-through light show with your loved ones from the comfort of your vehicle. After the show, explore Santa's Village with synthetic ice skating, photos with Santa, inflatables, food vendors, merchandise, hot apple cider, and gourmet fudge.Tower Taproom, Montgomery, AL
The Tower Taproom is raising the bar on drinking experiences. With its 57 taps and unique self-pour system, patrons can enjoy a variety of craft beers, ciders, and wines. Discover new beverages quickly with the touch screen information about each drink, offering a description, alcohol content, and price-per-ounce. Enjoy a small taste or a whole pint of your favorite at the FIRST licensed self-pour taproom in the state.
DoubleTree by Hilton, Decatur, AL
Check in to the DoubleTree by Hilton, a cozy hotel situated right on the Tennessee River. You’ll arrive to a fresh-baked chocolate chip cookie and clean, warm accommodations that will help you get your ZZZ’s as you prepare for another day of travel. The awesome riverfront views are a bonus.
Java Jaay Cafe, Decatur, AL
Check out of the Hilton and head south to Java Jaay Cafe, just a couple minutes from the hotel. They’ve got the best coffee in town (and perhaps the southeast), as well as tasty food to get your day started. It’s a comfy, cozy spot that screams fall weather—you’ll be glad you blew in for a visit.
Madison County Nature Trail, Huntsville, AL
Head northeast about 30 minutes to Huntsville, where you’ll find the scenic Madison County Nature Trail. This amazing park is bursting with rich color in the fall and will make for beautiful photos to line your Instagram account. The park is free to enter and open year-round, but fall is arguably the best time to visit. The nature trail takes you around Sky Lake over bridges and past the state’s oldest and largest Champion Winged Elm Tree. There’s also a majestic covered bridge, one of the last of its kind in Alabama, that is pure postcard perfection.
Key Insights at a Glance
- Alabama comes alive with fall foliage, making it the perfect time for a road trip.
- Filter-Coffee Parlor in Birmingham offers delicious coffee and tea in a sustainable environment.
- Ruffner Mountain in Birmingham features beautiful fall scenery and hiking trails.
- Irondale Cafe in Irondale serves tasty southern cuisine using locally sourced ingredients.
- Mize Mill Falls in Double Springs offers a fun hiking adventure to a scenic waterfall.
- Oxford Festival of Lights in Oxford features a drive-through light show and Santa's Village.
- Tower Taproom in Montgomery offers a unique self-pour system for craft beers, ciders, and wines.
- DoubleTree by Hilton in Decatur provides cozy accommodations with riverfront views.
- Java Jaay Cafe in Decatur serves the best coffee in town and delicious food.
- Madison County Nature Trail in Huntsville offers beautiful fall scenery and photo opportunities.
