After you've done your research on Alabama, you can begin the decision making process of planning your vacation. Having gathered information about your vacation destination, you'll be well-equipped to make important choices about your upcoming retreat.
One of the most important things that you'll have to decide for your vacation is where you want to stay. Since there are so many cities and different regions of Alabama this may not be an easy decision. Other things you'll need to keep in mind when making decisions about your trip are how you'll get there, what kind of activities you want to enjoy during your stay, and what means of transportation you'll use once you're there.
Where to Go
Alabama has varied landscapes featuring everything from beaches to mountains. The Yellowhammer State can be divided into four different geographical regions: Mountains, Metropolitan, River Heritage, and the Gulf Coast region.
Located in northern Alabama, the Mountain region features a breathtakingly beautiful countryside. Here visitors will find gorgeous, shimmering lakes and waterfalls, caverns, and the majestic Appalachian Mountains. An abundance of outdoor activities is available in this region, including hiking, spelunking, and a whole lot more. Other natural attractions include the Huntsville Botanical Gardens, as well as Huntsville's Nature Center and Butterfly House. Historic sites and cultural attractions are also an option in the Mountain region. For an out of this world experience, visit Huntsville's U.S. Space and Rocket Center, which is sure to be a blast for both kids and adults. Culture vultures should head to Decatur to visit the Carnegie Visual Arts Center.
The Metropolitan region of Alabama is richly diverse. Vacationers with a need for speed can check out a race at the Talladega Superspeedway, or the running, roaring waters of the Noccalula Falls. For something a bit slower and a lot tastier, sample sweet, delicious peaches in Chilton County. Art lovers may want to visit Tuscaloosa, which is home to the Westervelt-Warner Museum, featuring over 400 pieces of art from the 18th and early 20th centuries. Tee off anytime at any of the Metropolitan region's more than 30 golf courses, including the Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort in Hoover.
The River Heritage Region is considered a "must-see" for those visiting Alabama. Here you can visit both natural and historic attractions, including civil rights landmarks and state Capitol Building in Montgomery. In the River Heritage Region travelers will find rolling green farmlands, historic houses and architecture, and neighborly locals. Cultural pursuits abound here, too, including such sites as the Alabama Shakespeare Festival in Montgomery, the new Performing Arts Center in Troy, and the Jule Collins Smith Museum in Auburn.
The final region of Alabama is the Gulf Coast Region, which is particularly popular for its pristine white sand beaches at Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Along with beautiful beaches, vacationers will find historic and cultural attractions as well. Alabama's oldest city, Mobile, is located in the Gulf Coast region, and was the home of America's first Mardi Gras. A trip to the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo makes a great outing for the entire family.
Once you have decided which region of Alabama you want to vacation in, you can then decide on the city or cities you want to visit.
Once You're There
There are plenty of choices when it comes to lodgings and activities in Alabama. When deciding on hotel or resort accommodations, keep in mind what's most important to you on your vacation. If you plan to spend a lot of time sunbathing or exploring the salty ocean waters, you may want to book your stay at a beach front resort. If you enjoy activities and sightseeing, then you may want to stay in the heart of the city so you can be near its main attractions and happening tourist spots.
If you're traveling with others, keep their likes and dislikes in mind when deciding where to stay and what to do. Some of your companions may enjoy exciting nightlife, while others may prefer a quiet, relaxing trip. Try to find a happy medium so that everyone can enjoy their stay in Alabama. Also, if you're traveling with the family, you may want to look into kid-friendly accommodations and activities.
Alabama is so diverse in terrain and what it offers vacationers, no matter which region you choose to visit you're sure to find plenty of fun activities on your Yellowhammer State vacation.
