Gadsden AlabamaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Gadsden, Alabama.
1. Noccalula Falls Park & Campground
MAJESTIC NATURAL WATERFALL
Noccalula Falls Park & Campground features a stunning 90-foot waterfall surrounded by lush botanical gardens and hiking trails. Visitors can explore the park's historical attractions including a pioneer homestead, Civil War cannons, and a miniature train ride. The park also offers camping facilities with both tent sites and RV hookups for those wanting to extend their stay.
2. Neely Henry Lake
PREMIER FISHING DESTINATION
Neely Henry Lake is a popular 11,235-acre reservoir on the Coosa River known for excellent fishing opportunities. The lake offers abundant populations of spotted bass, largemouth bass, crappie, and other game fish that attract anglers year-round. Recreational boaters also enjoy the lake's calm waters and scenic shoreline dotted with coves and inlets.
3. Martin Wildlife Park Trail
SCENIC WATERFRONT BOARDWALKS
The James D. Martin Wildlife Park offers exceptional facilities for exploring an extensive backwater of Neely Henry Lake on the Coosa River. An extensive network of boardwalks allows visitors to walk out into the 300-acre lake and visit wooded islands situated along the mouth of Black Creek. The park provides superb views of diverse birdlife and wildlife in this rich and varied ecosystem.
4. Imagination Place
INTERACTIVE CHILDREN'S MUSEUM
Imagination Place is a delightful children's museum designed primarily for children ages 2 through 10. Children can explore KidsTown USA, the museum's permanent exhibit where everything is child-sized, including a town, grocery store, train station, farm, and sunken pirate ship. The museum encourages play, exploration, creativity, and learning in a safe, engaging environment.
5. Gadsden Variety Antique Mall
TREASURE HUNTER'S PARADISE
Gadsden Variety Antique Mall houses a vast collection of vintage treasures, collectibles, and antiques from numerous vendors under one roof. Shoppers can browse through furniture, jewelry, glassware, toys, records, and countless other unique items from different eras. The mall offers something for both serious collectors and casual browsers looking for nostalgic items or one-of-a-kind gifts.
6. Back Forty Beer Co.
CRAFT BREWERY EXPERIENCE
Back Forty Beer Co. is a popular craft brewery offering tours and tastings of their award-winning beers. Visitors can enjoy a variety of handcrafted ales and lagers in the taproom while learning about the brewing process. The brewery often features live music events and food pairings to complement their distinctive Southern-inspired brews.
7. Gadsden Mall
CENTRAL SHOPPING DESTINATION
Gadsden Mall serves as the primary shopping center in the area with a variety of retail stores, specialty shops, and dining options under one roof. The mall features both national chains and local retailers offering clothing, electronics, gifts, and other merchandise. Its central location and diverse offerings make it a convenient one-stop shopping destination for residents and visitors alike.
8. A Walk Through Time Forrest Cemetery
HISTORIC MEMORIAL GROUNDS
A Walk Through Time Forrest Cemetery is a historic cemetery dating back to the 19th century with beautiful monuments and landscaping. The cemetery contains the final resting places of many prominent local historical figures and offers a peaceful setting for reflection. Guided tours are occasionally available highlighting the cemetery's historical significance and architectural features.
9. Mary G. Hardin Center for Cultural Arts
DOWNTOWN ARTS HUB
The Mary G. Hardin Center for Cultural Arts is housed in a former department store and serves as Gadsden's premier cultural venue. The center features art galleries, event spaces, and a remarkable 72-foot model train running through a replica of 1940s Gadsden. It also houses the Downtown Dance Conservatory and the Etowah Youth Orchestra, making it central to Gadsden's arts community.
10. Twin Bridges Golf Club
RIVERSIDE GOLF EXPERIENCE
Twin Bridges Golf Club features a par-72, 6,800-yard, 18-hole golf course designed by Gene Bates set along the scenic Coosa River. The course challenges golfers of all skill levels with its finely manicured TifEagle Bermuda greens and strategically placed bunkers. Both golfers and nature enthusiasts appreciate the natural beauty and wildlife that surround this picturesque course.
11. Gadsden Museum of Art
LOCAL CULTURAL SHOWCASE
The Gadsden Museum of Art promotes appreciation of visual arts through a variety of changing exhibitions throughout the year. The museum hosts solo artist shows, group exhibitions, and displays pieces from its permanent collection. Admission is free, making fine art accessible to all visitors Tuesday through Saturday.
12. Broad Street
HISTORIC DOWNTOWN DISTRICT
Broad Street forms the heart of downtown Gadsden with its charming historic buildings housing shops, restaurants, and cultural venues. The street serves as the hub for the city's fine arts scene with three outstanding facilities including the Gadsden Museum of Art and the Mary G. Hardin Center. Visitors can enjoy the area's vibrant atmosphere, especially during special events like First Friday celebrations.
13. Lookout Mountain Parkway
SCENIC MOUNTAIN DRIVE
Lookout Mountain Parkway offers breathtaking views and scenic driving opportunities through the mountains near Gadsden. The parkway passes through three states and connects numerous natural attractions, historical sites, and small mountain communities. Travelers enjoy spectacular vistas, especially during fall foliage season when the mountains display vibrant autumn colors.
14. Coosa Landing Marina
RIVERSIDE RECREATION CENTER
Coosa Landing Marina provides boat access to the Coosa River with modern launching facilities and docking options. The marina serves as a hub for water recreation including fishing, boating, and water sports on the scenic river. Its convenient location makes it popular with both locals and visitors seeking to enjoy Gadsden's beautiful waterways.
15. Tigers for Tomorrow
EXOTIC WILDLIFE PRESERVE
Tigers for Tomorrow is an exotic animal preserve and rescue facility located near Gadsden that provides a permanent home to over 160 animals. Visitors can see tigers, lions, bears, wolves, and other exotic and native species in a natural setting. The preserve offers educational tours that focus on conservation and the importance of protecting these magnificent animals.