I’ve always loved the quote, “Sometimes the best things in life are free!” I couldn’t agree more with this. I love going places and doing things that aren’t going to cost me anything. Who doesn’t? There are many activities we can do in Alabama that will not only save us money, but provide entertainment as well. Let’s take a look at 18 of these activities.
1. Alabama State Capitol
Located in Montgomery, the state capitol building is open to the public Monday through Saturday. Self-guided tours are available from 9-4. Keep in mind that the capitol building will be closed on all state holidays. These self-guided tours are FREE!
2. Alabama Jubilee Hot Air Balloon Classic
The Alabama Jubilee Hot Air Balloon Classic is a festival featuring music, vendors and of course - hot air balloons. This event is free and takes place in Decatur every Memorial Day Weekend.
3. Gulf Shores
If you're eager to catch some rays in a beautiful setting, look no further than Gulf Shores, Alabama. Gulf Shores has some of the prettiest beaches and is of course free to the public. Just grab a towel and a beach chair and you're ready to go. Oh, and don't forget your SPF.
4. Birmingham Botanical Gardens
Learn all about different types of plants and wildlife while you tour these beautiful gardens. The Botanical Gardens is open from dawn to dusk.
5. Coon Dog Cemetery
Established in 1937 and located in Tuscumbia, Alabama, this unique cemetery is the burial site of more than 185 coon dogs from all across the United States. This cemetery truly is one-of-a-kind and I encourage you to visit it if you're ever in the area.
6. Flea Markets
Who doesn't love flea markets? I sure do! Flea markets are all over Alabama. And even though you'll likely spend a little money, or in my case, a lot, it's still FREE to browse.
7. Camping
Camping is a fun and free activity for the entire family. Many parks offer free camping, so be sure to check into that.
8. Park for a Picnic
Pack up a basket of food and head to the nearest park for a picnic. Picnics are super fun!
9. Sloss Furnaces
Come and see how the steel industry started in this great state. Sloss Furnaces offers free tours to the public. Keep in mind that you'll be without a tour guide. Be careful though. Sloss Furnaces is rumored to be haunted. Don't go alone.
10. William Bankhead National Forest
There are many places to go hiking here in Alabama. I suggest hiking in the William Bankhead National Forest and exploring the Sipsey Wilderness. Don't forget your flashlight. People have been known to still be hiking after dark.
11. Birmingham Museum of Art and Gallery
Come and see some wonderful art displays at the Birmingham Museum of Art and Gallery. Admission is free and the hours are: Tuesday-Saturday 10-5 and Saturday 12-5.
12. Spirit of America Festival
Don't forget to attend the Spirit of America Festival this Fourth of July. This event takes place in Decatur at Point Mallard Park and as always, has a spectacular firework show.
13. Your Local Library
Sometimes we take libraries for granted. Libraries are awesome! We can check out books, movies, magazines, etc. for free. We can also use their internet for free. If you don't have a library card to your local library I suggest you get one. You'll use it more than you think you will.
14. Little River Canyon
Little River Canyon, located in Northeast Alabama, has a big area that attracts swimmers. This area is known as Hippie Hole. What a fun name!
15. Civil Rights District
Take a walk around the Civil Rights District in Birmingham and learn about this important time in history.
16. Street Festivals
Almost every city in Alabama has some type of street festival. Funnel cakes anyone?
17. Antique Car Shows
Here in Alabama, we're proud of our cars. The older they are, the better!
18. Natchez Trace Parkway
The Natchez Trace Parkway is a 444 mile drive of beautiful scenery. If you feel like getting out for a fun drive, check out the Natchez Trace Parkway. If you want to stop and get out, it also offers hiking, biking and horseback riding.
This is only a handful of the free activities Alabama has to offer. Visit your local tourism center to find out more. There are so many wonderful things to do in Alabama. Being able to do them without cost, well, that makes the experiences even more wonderful!
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