Summer in Tuscaloosa is anything but sleepy. From iconic football landmarks to riverside walks, art hubs, and museums that tell the story of Alabama’s past (and prehistoric past, too), T-Town is packed with things to see, do, and Instagram. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or coming home for the hundredth time, here are some of the city’s most unforgettable spots to explore this summer.
1. The Football Stadium
Let’s go ahead and start with the crown jewel. Whether you’re a diehard football fan or just love a good stadium selfie, the city’s home football stadium is the Tuscaloosa landmark. You can’t miss it—literally. Towering over campus, it’s one of the most iconic college stadiums in the country and a must-see even in the off-season, when stadium tours offer an incredible behind-the-scenes look at locker rooms, the field, and the rich tradition that has made U of A football a powerhouse for decades.
The stadium’s imposing presence and storied history make it a must-visit destination, where you can almost feel the echoes of legendary victories and championship celebrations that have taken place on this hallowed ground.
2. The Historic Bama Theatre
Step into a piece of entertainment history at the stunning Bama Theatre. Built in 1938, this historic theatre features twinkling stars, Moorish-style Renaissance Spanish décor, and a reproduction of the Davanzati Palace courtyard of Florence, Italy. This architectural masterpiece was once the only air-conditioned building in Tuscaloosa and served as the community’s grand movie house.
Today, the Bama Theatre continues to enchant audiences with year-round performances, concerts, and cultural events. The ornate interior, complete with its famous starlit ceiling, creates an unforgettable atmosphere that transports visitors to a bygone era of glamorous entertainment.
3. The Tuscaloosa Civil Rights Trail
Experience one of the most important chapters in American history along the powerful Tuscaloosa Civil Rights Trail. This self-guided tour of 18 sites explores the city’s civil rights history, including Capitol Park, Foster Auditorium, and the Howard-Linton Barbershop.
The trail includes Foster Auditorium where Governor George Wallace made his famous “Stand in the Schoolhouse Door” in 1963, a pivotal moment that helped advance the cause of integration. From the site of “Bloody Tuesday” to the barbershop where civil rights leaders gathered, each stop tells the compelling story of ordinary citizens who took extraordinary action to fight for equality and justice.
4. Capitol Park
Take a peaceful stroll through Capitol Park, where Alabama’s political story first unfolded. This site served as Alabama’s state capital from 1826-1846, designed by architect William Nichols. The historic ruins and beautiful green space provide a serene setting for reflection while connecting visitors to the early days of Alabama statehood.
The park offers a perfect spot for picnicking, walking, and contemplating the significant events that shaped both Tuscaloosa and the entire state of Alabama during its formative years.
5. Gorgas House Museum
Discover the remarkable story of survival and history at the Gorgas House Museum. Built in 1829, it’s the oldest building on the U of A campus and one of only four structures to survive the Civil War burning in 1865. This incredible survivor originally served as a dining hall, hotel, and residence before becoming home to the influential Gorgas family.
The museum houses original Gorgas family furnishings and 19th-century artifacts, restored to its 1890s condition, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into university life from over a century ago. Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1971, this architectural gem tells the story of resilience, education, and the families who shaped the university’s early development.
6. Alabama Museum of Natural History
Journey through millions of years of natural history at Alabama’s premier natural science destination. The state’s natural history museum founded in 1831, this attraction houses fascinating exhibits that bring Alabama’s prehistoric past to life.
Don’t miss the museum’s crown jewels: a replica Basilosaurus whale skeleton, mastodon skull, and the famous Hodges meteorite that struck a woman in 1954. From dinosaur fossils to stunning mineral collections, the museum showcases the incredible natural diversity that has characterized Alabama from the Age of Dinosaurs through the Ice Age and beyond.
7. Paul W. Bryant Museum
Celebrate over a century of Alabama football excellence at the Paul W. Bryant Museum. This comprehensive museum covers Alabama football history, coaches, and players beyond just the Bear Bryant era, featuring memorabilia, trophies, and interactive exhibits that chronicle the Crimson Tide’s rise to national prominence.
From vintage uniforms to championship rings, the museum offers fans an immersive experience that showcases why U of A football is considered the gold standard in college athletics. It’s truly a place where “football season never ends.”
8. Tuscaloosa Riverwalk & River Market
Enjoy the natural beauty of the Black Warrior River along Tuscaloosa’s scenic Riverwalk. The pathway offers peaceful walking and jogging opportunities with beautiful water views, while the River Market serves as home to the Tuscaloosa Farmers Market with Saturday vendors and year-round events.
This vibrant marketplace showcases local produce, crafts, and regional specialties, making it the perfect place to experience Tuscaloosa’s community spirit while enjoying fresh air and river breezes.
9. U of A School Campus
Explore one of the South’s most beautiful university campuses with its historic buildings, tree-lined quads, and impressive architecture. Daily campus tours are available weekdays at 10am & 2pm, and Saturdays at 10am, offering visitors insights into the university’s rich academic traditions and stunning grounds.
From the iconic quad to modern facilities, the campus tour provides a comprehensive look at why the university has been a cornerstone of higher education in the South for nearly two centuries. Even better? It’s just a short walk from WestGate Condominiums!
10. Lake Tuscaloosa
Escape the Alabama heat and dive into summer fun at beautiful Lake Tuscaloosa! At over nine square miles, Lake Tuscaloosa has plenty of room for fishing, boating and all your favorite water activities, making it the perfect destination for water lovers of all ages.
Lake Tuscaloosa features iconic southern pines and rolling hills and is renowned in the area for its year-round fishing and boating culture. Whether you’re looking to cast a line for bass and crappie, rent a pontoon boat from Pier 43 at Lake Tuscaloosa, or simply soak up the Alabama sunshine, this pristine lake offers the ultimate summer escape.
Your Perfect Home Base: WestGate Condominiums
After a day of exploring Tuscaloosa’s incredible attractions, there’s no better place to relax and recharge than WestGate Condominiums. Located just 200 feet from the football stadium and a quick stroll from the school campus, WestGate offers unmatched convenience for experiencing everything T-Town has to offer.
Whether you’re walking to a football game, strolling to campus museums, or heading downtown to explore the Civil Rights Trail and historic attractions, WestGate’s prime location puts you at the center of it all. Between visits to our top attractions, enjoy luxurious condo living with top-of-the-line appliances and five-star amenities that keep you wrapped in comfort as you explore our championship city.
This summer, discover why T-Town captures the hearts of visitors from around the world. Book your stay at WestGate and begin your T-Town getaway today.
