Alabama comes alive when fall foliage makes its appearance—a wonderful time for a road trip. The state is full of beautiful scenery and attractions that you’ll only discover if you’re looking for them. This epic fall road trip in Alabama will let you experience some of the best things about the season and help you create a truly unforgettable event.
Start your road trip with a quick pick-me-up at East 59 Vintage & Cafe. This little coffee shop features a short but sweet breakfast offering, including croissants, fresh fruit, and pecan cinnamon rolls. They specialize in “craft coffee” beverages that are as elegant as they are tasty, and can energize you for your next stop at scenic Ruffner Mountain.
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Tucked away just outside the city lies Ruffner Mountain in all its rich fall splendor. This urban nature preserve is free to explore and features 14 miles of trails throughout the mountain. There are a couple scenic overlooks just a couple miles from the parking areas that will give you the perfect views of the area’s magnificent fall colors.
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You might recognize this little eatery if you’ve seen the movie “Fried Green Tomatoes,” which provided its “15 minutes of fame.” Here you’ll find some of the tastiest and good-for-you southern cuisine around, using locally sourced produce and meats and providing you with plenty of options. Nestled right beside the train tracks in downtown Irondale, it’s a great place to fuel up while you warm up on your fall road trip, and might easily become your new favorite lunch spot.
This short yet slightly challenging hike leads you to some of the most beautiful falls in the area. It’s a relatively flat hike, unless you care to use the side trail that takes you to the top of the falls (which can be dangerous) but overall, it’s a peaceful walk in the woods with a highly rewarding view at the end. Getting here is a little tricky, as there aren’t any blatant signs or parking lots. You can access the trailhead at 3372 County Road 703 and park along the street.
From Welti Falls, head about 22 minutes northwest to Steele Orchard and enjoy an afternoon snack of fried apple pies, apple cakes, fresh cider, and other delectable farm-fresh treats. They also feature a gift shop so you can stock up on your favorites to keep you company on the rest of your trip.
It wouldn’t be a fall road trip without a little terror, so get ready to scream for your life! Haunted House of Horror is a top haunted attraction that takes you through a house of chills and thrills… and dolls You never know what’s lurking in the next room here as your wildest fears are brought to life.
Just a 25-minute drive east will land you at Sam’s Sports Grill for a bite to eat and refreshing drink from the bar. It’s the ideal spot to unwind after a day of adventures, especially if there’s a good football game on. If you love wings, you’re in luck—they have the best in town.
Check in to the DoubleTree by Hilton, a cozy hotel situated right on the Tennessee River. You’ll arrive to a fresh-baked chocolate chip cookie and clean, warm accommodations that will help you get your ZZZ’s as you prepare for another day of travel. The awesome riverfront views are a bonus.
Check out of the Hilton and head south to Java Jaay’s Cafe, just a couple minutes from the hotel. They’ve got the best coffee in town (and perhaps the southeast), as well as tasty food to get your day started. It’s a comfy, cozy spot that screams fall weather—you’ll be glad you blew in for a visit.
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Head northeast about 30 minutes to Huntsville, Alabama, where you’ll find the scenic Madison County Nature Trail. This amazing park is bursting with rich color in the fall, and will make for beautiful photos to line your Instagram account. The park is free to enter and open year-round, but fall is arguably the best time to visit. The nature trail takes you around Sky Lake over bridges and past the state’s oldest and largest Champion Winged Elm Tree. There’s also a majestic covered bridge, one of the last of its kind in Alabama, that is pure postcard perfection.
