Less than an hour north of Birmingham, Cullman offers great food, a stunning lake, and a handful of important sights to see. Here is SoulGrown’s guide to 24 hours in Cullman.

Morning at The Grotto

Ave Maria Grotto is one of Alabama’s most intriguing historical sites that proves the perfect place to enjoy a peaceful morning in the city. “The Ave Maria Grotto is located on the grounds of St. Bernard Abbey, the only Benedictine monastery of men in the State of Alabama.  The Abbey was founded in 1891.  The Grotto consists of a landscaped hillside of 125 small stone and cement structures, the handiwork of the creative genius, Brother Joseph Zoetl, O.S.B., a monk of the Abbey for almost 70 years.”

Lunch at All Steak

The perfect day in Cullman starts with breakfast at All Steak. The All Steak is one of Cullman’s most well-known restaurants. Originally founded in 1934 in Tennessee by Millard Buchman, the intended name was All Steak Hamburgers, “but custom signage is priced by the letter and “hamburgers” had entirely too many for his budget.”

According to All Steak, “In 1938, he moved the business to Cullman where, despite changes in location and ownership, All Steak has been a cornerstone of the community ever since. Throughout the years, our sign, our service, and our food have remained the same. People travel from near and far to enjoy our prime ribs, seafood, and other staples, but it’s our signature orange rolls that keep them coming back!”

Spend Time at Smith Lake Park

After an incredible (and filling) lunch at All Steak, head to Smith Lake Park for your choice of outdoor fun. The park offers virtually everything from fishing and boating to picnicking and camping.

“Located in Cullman County, Alabama, on the shores of the 21,200 acre Lewis Smith Lake with 500 miles of shoreline, the Smith Lake Park is open for year round camping. The park has 9 cabins; 219 full service sites; 5 water and electric sites; and 61 tent sites. Eight pavilions, playgrounds, a pool, fishing pier, a huge stage for special events, and new boat launch makes rustic Smith Lake Park a destination for fun and relaxation, plus a number of special events and festivals at the park throughout the year.”

Dinner at 412 Public House

After an afternoon and early evening spent in the sun, head to 412 Public House for a relaxing dinner. Offering a little something for everyone, it makes for the perfect spot for friends and family. According to 412, “Our focus is bringing a unique dining experience to Cullman, AL through high-quality ingredients, handcrafted cocktails, juicy burgers, mouthwatering steaks, fresh seafood, and an atmosphere made for memories.”

Bonus: Stargazing

If you are looking for one final activity to end your day trip, Cullman makes for a great place to go stargazing. Find a secluded spot and enjoy some quiet time before heading home.

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