What’s Tuscaloosa without a little football? As it turns out, still pretty fun! During the summer season, visitors and locals alike enjoy low crowds, warm weather, and city blocks full of fun outdoor activities. You can lounge on a nearby lake, visit a local attraction, or enjoy a quiet family picnic on The Quad, all while soaking in the city’s unique culture and sweet southern hospitality. Here are some of the best spots to spend your summer season in T-town.
The Riverwalk
Just outside the bustle of downtown lies The Riverwalk, a scenic 4.5-mile trail that winds along the southern bank of the beautiful Black Warrior River. It’s a friendly place for families and fido, as you’ll find playgrounds, gazebos, picnic tables, and even a splash pad placed along the path. On warm summer Saturdays you can stop in at the Tuscaloosa River Market to peruse and purchase local goods at the weekly farmers market.
Lake Lurleen State Park
This scenic retreat boasts nearly 1,700 acres of lakeside land that’s perfect for recreation and relaxation. Its claim to fame is Lake Lurleen, a 250-acre lake that offers endless opportunities for fishing, swimming, paddleboarding, and boating. The park also features 23 miles of multi-use trails and facilities for family fun, including a Nature Center, play and picnic areas, a beach, and more.
Other Lake Adventures
Lake Tuscaloosa, Lake Nichols, and Harris Lake provide exciting summer lake adventures within the city limits. Each lake offers its own unique charms: Lake Tuscaloosa is known for fishing and boating; Lake Nichols is the place to go for paddleboarding and birdwatching; and Harris Lake offers stunning hiking trails and a sandy beach for swimming.
Moundville Archeological Park
A clear summer morning is the perfect time to visit Moundville Archeological Park, a 326-acre exhibit that showcases magnificent monuments built by native Mississippian people over 800 years ago. You can explore what’s left of the prehistoric community and visit the park museum to view the stunning treasures that have been unearthed over the centuries.
Campus Tours
If you haven’t yet, summer is a great time for a crowd-free campus tour of the university. Current students lead visitors on an in-depth walking tour of iconic campus spots like Gorgas Library, the Quad, the Ferguson Center, and more. If you don’t have time for a full guided tour, summer is still a great time to pick up a campus map and take a quick stroll through the common areas!
Are you ready to savor summer in Tuscaloosa? Book your WestGate stay today!
