The more I travel around the different states of America the more I love the countryside and the richness of different cultures. The Deep South is on my bucket list this year and for lovers of soulful music and cajun food there’s a rich tapestry of experiences to explore. I’ve picked up some interesting information about Alabama and with new memorials and events this could be the year to dip your toe into a different side of America. There’s much more to this state than the setting for to Kill a Mocking Bird.
‘Sweet Home Alabama’ is a state immortalised in the lyrics of the legendary song. Nestled in the heart of the American Deep South, Alabama has a flavour all of its own! Award winning cuisine, the best barbecue and fresh from the Gulf seafood is washed down with the traditional Alabama sweet tea and served with a generous helping of southern hospitality.
Alabama’s largest city was named after Birmingham, UK and its known for its foodie scene, lively entertainment districts, arts and attractions. Barber Motorsports Museum showcasing the world’s largest collection of motorcycles, the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute which details the city’s role in the movement which changed America and Red Mountain Park are just some of the must do attractions. Montgomery, Alabama’s capital city was home to the Montgomery Bus Boycott and the Rosa Parks museum tells this inspirational story. Here one can also follow in the footsteps of Martin Luther King Jr and visit his church and parsonage. For thrill seekers, the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville has simulators that allow visitors to experience a space shot, G-force and weightlessness.
Alabama is also known for its music history. International superstars including Aretha Franklin, Otis Redding and The Rolling Stones all came to Muscle Shoals, the ‘Hit Recording Capital of the World’ to record songs in the 60s and 70s. These working studios still used by international artists welcome visitors for tours. Live music can be found in almost every town and city in sophisticated bars and clubs, Saturday night juke joints and gospel choir church services. Festivals across the state celebrate music, local specialities and a wide range of beverages including the legendary tea!
For lovers of the great outdoors, Alabama sweeps down from the foothills of the Appalachians to the 32 miles of white sand beaches on the Gulf Coast providing plenty of opportunity to hike, bike, kayak and swim. The port city of Mobile by the Bay offers Delta Safaris, eco tours and to restaurants that allow visitors to enjoy the ambience and soak up the sun. It is also home of the very first Mardi Gras which took place in 1703 and is still celebrated today.
‘Sweet Home Alabama’ is a state immortalised in the lyrics of the legendary song. Nestled in the heart of the American Deep South, Alabama has a flavour all of its own! Award winning cuisine, the best barbecue and fresh from the Gulf seafood is washed down with the traditional Alabama sweet tea and served with a generous helping of southern hospitality.
Alabama’s largest city was named after Birmingham, UK and its known for its foodie scene, lively entertainment districts, arts and attractions. Barber Motorsports Museum showcasing the world’s largest collection of motorcycles, the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute which details the city’s role in the movement which changed America and Red Mountain Park are just some of the must do attractions. Montgomery, Alabama’s capital city was home to the Montgomery Bus Boycott and the Rosa Parks museum tells this inspirational story. Here one can also follow in the footsteps of Martin Luther King Jr and visit his church and parsonage. For thrill seekers, the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville has simulators that allow visitors to experience a space shot, G-force and weightlessness.
Alabama is also known for its music history. International superstars including Aretha Franklin, Otis Redding and The Rolling Stones all came to Muscle Shoals, the ‘Hit Recording Capital of the World’ to record songs in the 60s and 70s. These working studios still used by international artists welcome visitors for tours. Live music can be found in almost every town and city in sophisticated bars and clubs, Saturday night juke joints and gospel choir church services. Festivals across the state celebrate music, local specialities and a wide range of beverages including the legendary tea!
For lovers of the great outdoors, Alabama sweeps down from the foothills of the Appalachians to the 32 miles of white sand beaches on the Gulf Coast providing plenty of opportunity to hike, bike, kayak and swim. The port city of Mobile by the Bay offers Delta Safaris, eco tours and to restaurants that allow visitors to enjoy the ambience and soak up the sun. It is also home of the very first Mardi Gras which took place in 1703 and is still celebrated today.
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