Tucked in the heart of downtown Fairhope, where mossy oaks create arched canopies and the sidewalks bloom with jasmine, there’s a place that feels like it belongs in a storybook more than a small Southern town. The Fairhope Castles–yes, actual castles–stand as a testament to one family’s creativity, craftsmanship, and an unwavering belief in magic. […]

Solo travel has become one of the most sought-after experiences in recent years. To take a step back from day-to-day life and set out on an adventure of your choosing is an enticing idea for many. One luxury of living in Alabama is our access to some of the country’s most beautiful beaches, which make […]

USA Today recently reported on Dauphin Island as a great destination for those beach lovers wanting a laid-back, back-to-nature experience. For travelers seeking a quiet retreat far from the crowded boardwalks and bustling nightlife of high-energy beach destinations, Dauphin Island presents a compelling alternative. Tucked along Alabama’s Gulf Coast, this barrier island is known not for roller coasters […]

Located in the heart of Decatur, Alabama, the Cook Museum of Natural Science is more than a museum—it’s a place of discovery, curiosity, and inspiration. Designed to spark a passion for the natural world in visitors of all ages, the museum is especially impactful in how it engages young learners through hands-on experiences, immersive exhibits, […]

Mother’s Day is the perfect time to plan a day trip, and Alabama is home to a number of incredible cities boasting the best in food, drink, culture, and entertainment. Montgomery offers everything you need to celebrate this Mother’s Day, from upscale dining to beautiful sunset views. Here is a simple guide for spending a […]

As a rising innovation hub in Alabama, Huntsville has gained traction in recent years as one of the state’s top places to live. With an influx of innovation comes a constantly expanding city with something to offer everyone. For Alabamians looking for the perfect day trip, here is a simple spring itinerary for 24 hours […]

If the travel bug has bitten you but you only have a weekend to spare, don’t fret–there is an abundance of quick getaways for every type of traveler in our state. Whether you prefer the coziness of a small town, the fresh air of the outdoors, or a rooftop surrounded by city lights, these Alabama […]

Spring breakers often flock to beaches along the Alabama Gulf Coast in search of sand and sun, landing them on the sugar-white beaches at Gulf State Park in Gulf Shores. But did you know other Alabama State Parks, including Oak Mountain State Park near Birmingham, Joe Wheeler State Park in Rogersville, Wind Creek State Park on […]

The late afternoon sun flickers off the waves as we cruise down the Bosphorus Strait, the boat gently bobbing up and down on the water. I sit on a plush booth seat near the stern, occasionally glancing up at the bright red Turkish flag hanging above me, its crescent moon whipping in the wind. With […]

For those of us born and raised in Alabama, we share memories from childhood of finding small spaces across the state that seemed to hold a certain magic—a garden in a grandmother’s backyard, a wooded path that wove along the lakeside, or a little hiding spot among the hills. For all of us, there was […]

Mentone may be a small North Alabama town—home to a population of only 325—but there is nothing small about the impact the small mountain community has on those who visit. While the nature-inclined may enjoy the area for its scenic views and peace seekers may tout the area’s calming properties, there is one local feature […]

As far as February days in Fairhope are concerned, it was an intolerably cold one. Weaving in and out of the small shops around town, I was desperately eager to find a place where I felt I could take up residence for an hour or two. My limited knowledge of the area combined with my […]

You may think you know glamping, but Auburn Glamping’s luxurious 36-ft dome, nestled in the trees on over 22 acres, is unlike anything you’ve seen before. Andrew and Laura Riley have created a truly unique glamping experience for families, couples, and friend groups wanting to connect with the beauty of nature while enjoying the comforts […]

As summer winds down, the desire for a quick and refreshing escape becomes irresistible. If you’re looking for a last-minute summer getaway, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re craving a tranquil lakeside retreat or a vibrant outdoor adventure, these destinations will satisfy your wanderlust and provide the perfect summer send-off. Let’s dive into the beauty […]

When you think of Gulf Shores, Alabama, white sandy beaches, great food, and fun in the sun immediately come to mind. Now, the city is making waves outside the beach community through its dedication to sustainability and environmental restoration. “We have a vision to make Gulf Shores one of the best towns in Alabama and […]

Departing from Birmingham, Alabama it was a hot, 97-degree day in June. On our 2-hour drive up I-20 to Cumberland Plateau, my wife and I quickly noticed the 12-degree temperature drop to Rising Fawn, Georgia. Nestled amidst the Southeast brow of Lookout Mountain, the new Cloudland Lodge at McLemore Resort proved a perfect blend of […]

It is fair to say that memories made in the early years of our lives impact us in a remarkable way. For better or worse, these early experiences shape the lens through which we see the world. While many of us wish we could erase certain portions of our past, there are a handful of […]

There is an expression in French—chair à vif—which loosely translates to “flesh exposed.” It is the notion of being laid bare to life and light, to uncover a wound to the sun in order to be healed. It is raw, with oxygenated blood still running through—it is alive in the deepest sense. Tender and sensitive, […]

Looking for a quick getaway but don’t have much time to spare? You may find just what you’re looking for in the landscape of our beautiful state. From urban spaces steeped in history to the beautiful natural scenery of mountain views, Alabama is rich in cultural points of interest.

This year, staycations are poised to take center stage as the preferred choice for vacation and trip enthusiasts, marking a shift from the recent trend of revenge traveling. The distinction between a vacation and a staycation hinges on personal definitions. Traditionally, a vacation implies leisure or recreation spent away from home. Interestingly, a staycation seamlessly […]

Our 2023 Cutest Street in Alabama is Downtown Wetumpka’s Company Street. There are many factors that contribute to our distinction of “Cutest Street in Alabama.” This year, our decision was made based on community involvement and revitalization efforts as well as overall charm. Downtown Wetumpka has seen an impressive shift over the last years and […]