Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Pelham, Alabama

Pelham is recognized as one of the most rapidly developing cities in the state of Alabama.

Nestled in the picturesque foothills of Oak Mountain State Park, Pelham is named in honor of a brave officer from the American Civil War, John Pelham.

Situated just 20 miles south of the vibrant city of Birmingham, Pelham is ideally positioned for visitors eager to explore lush wine routes, museums, state parks, and family-oriented attractions.

As a local resident of Alabama living in nearby Birmingham, I often find solace in visiting Pelham to escape the frenetic city life. Here, we will delve into the top activities to engage in while in Pelham:

1. Oak Mountain State Park

Established in 1927, this expansive 9,940-acre state park is perfect for exploration.

As the largest state park in Alabama, Oak Mountain features a wide array of amenities including hiking, horseback riding, fishing, golf, and mountain biking.

With 25 miles of hiking trails, visitors may choose to embark on a leisurely walk through flourishing forests or tackle an extensive foothill trail measuring 8 miles one way.

For those who prefer more leisurely activities, the park’s lake is bordered by two beaches, one of which is accessible to the public from Terrace Drive.

This space is ideal for sunbathing, refreshing swims, or picnics with friends.

With stunning surroundings, nature rehabilitation centers, water sports facilities, and boat rentals available, Oak Mountain State Park serves as an excellent spot for relaxation during your visit to Pelham.

2. Alabama Wildlife Center

Situated within Oak Mountain State Park, the Alabama Wildlife Center is dedicated to rehabilitating and treating over 100 species of orphaned native birds.

Guests can observe these birds and engage with live talks and exhibitions while also witnessing feeding times for the raptors.

The nearby Treetop Nature Trail provides an excellent vantage point for visitors to watch healthy birds being returned to the wild.

In the surrounding park area, visitors can walk, cycle, fish, camp by the lake, and immerse themselves in nature.

3. Blue Water Park

In a landlocked Alabama city, one might not expect scuba diving to be available; however, Blue Water Park offers this unique experience. This 27-acre quarry oasis in the heart of Pelham serves as a fun scuba diving destination for divers of all expertise levels.

The park aims to educate and train scuba divers without necessitating a journey to the ocean.

Additionally, Blue Water Park offers kayaking, paddleboarding, and even on-board yoga for those desiring a respite from underwater activities.

4. Oak Mountain Amphitheatre

Oak Mountain Amphitheatre, located within the state park, has welcomed some of the largest names in the music industry.

As Alabama’s largest outdoor music venue, it features three tiers of seating in a picturesque forested setting, having hosted live concerts by renowned artists such as John Mayer, Willie Nelson, Alison Krauss, Counting Crows, and Lynyrd Skynyrd.

5. Peavine Falls

As with various natural attractions in Pelham, Peavine Falls is also situated within Oak Mountain State Park.

While enjoying the park, visitors can camp under the stars, mountain bike along numerous trails, or carry a picnic while hiking the 1.5 miles to Peavine Falls.

The cascading waterfall plunges 60 feet into a pool, creating a stunning spectacle for photographers, with marvelous viewpoints, scenic walks, rock formations, and rich flora and fauna.

6. Alabama Wine Trail

If you take pleasure in tasting regional wines during your travels, the Alabama Wine Trail is a must-visit.

Alabama Wine Country begins in Shelby County, just south of Birmingham, and winds through four to five wineries in the area.

The nearest winery to Pelham is Corbin Farms Winery, located a mere 9 miles away.

Set on 5 verdant acres, this winery is one of the state’s oldest, producing a varied selection of white, red, and fruit wines.

Visitors can sample local wines at the charming bistro, and I would highly encourage taking a tour of the scenic vineyards if time allows. I found the experience quite enlightening and subsequently purchased some of my favorite wines from the gift shop.

The winery’s ‘2018 Southern Blend,’ crafted from Muscadine grapes with hints of blackberry and raspberry, proves to be an economical option, while ‘Tuxedo Junction,’ known as the vineyard’s most favored wine, offers a delightful full-bodied red blended with caramel, chocolate, and raspberries.

7. Hoover Metropolitan Complex

The Hoover Metropolitan Complex serves as a venue for baseball, American football, soccer, and concert events.

With a capacity exceeding 10,000 attendees, the complex is located 15 miles northwest of Pelham in Downtown Hoover.

If sports are of interest to you, attending a stadium event during your visit allows for an engaging way to bond with local residents while cheering for the home team.

Additionally, the sports complex is just a 10-minute drive from the Riverchase Galleria shopping mall, providing a perfect opportunity for retail therapy followed by an enjoyable sports outing on the same day.

8. Ballantrae Golf Club

Recognized as one of the most budget-friendly public golf courses and listed among the ‘Top 50 Courses for Women,’ Ballantrae Golf Course caters to golfers of all skill levels.

This enjoyable 18-hole course, designed by esteemed architect Bob Cupp, weaves through a beautiful valley adorned with emerald woodlands and breathtaking views.

The course layout is well-crafted, featuring well-designed par-3s, 4s, and 5s that pose challenges for both novice and experienced golfers alike.

9. Visit Helena

Founded in 1877, this charming city along Buck Creek was named after the wife of a railroad worker.

Presently, Helena is on the rise, featuring a variety of new dining establishments, specialty gift shops, and outdoor food markets, making it a wonderful destination for shopping or enjoying an evening meal.

There is an outdoor amphitheater that hosts local bands and concerts, and the Kenneth R. Penhale City of Helena Museum exhibits numerous artifacts and displays that narrate the city’s history.

10. Depot Deli & Grill

During my visit to Helena, I enjoyed a delightful meal at Depot Deli and Grill, one of the area’s most favored dining spots, offering a diverse range of Southern culinary delights.

Whether you’re craving juicy burgers and crispy fries, a slaw dog, or sumptuous cheesesteaks and tater tots, you will find an array of options here.

This relaxed, family-friendly diner, situated in an old railroad depot near Pelham, offers a covered outdoor terrace along with a varied menu suitable for all tastes.

11. Lake Purdy

Lake Purdy provides a portion of the Birmingham area’s drinking water.

This serene lake, bordered by lush hills, forests, and hiking paths, offers an inviting space to unwind.

Visitors can rent boats or pontoons to enjoy a picnic on the water or take fishing gear to attempt catching largemouth bass, spotted bass, or crappie.

Boat rentals are reasonably priced, making it an enjoyable outing for the entire family.

12. The Beer Hog

If you have an affinity for sampling craft beers during your travels, consider visiting The Beer Hog in Pelham. With over 300 craft bottled beers on the shelves, 65 beers on tap, and an extensive selection of regional Alabama wines, there is a drink to cater to all preferences.

This quaint wooden bar features an outdoor patio, 50-inch televisions showcasing sports, and live music events that are sure to keep patrons entertained.

If mingling with locals and enjoying excellent craft beers in the heart of Pelham is your aim, The Beer Hog is the ideal venue.

13. Warehouse31

For a chilling experience in Pelham, visit the haunted Warehouse31. Visitors can navigate through 30,000 square feet of spine-tingling exhibits and unsettling attractions.

My preferred attraction at Warehouse31 is called Rigamortis.

This experience is not for the faint-hearted or claustrophobic; once the doors close, the terror commences! Alternatively, the realistic 3D experience features a tunnel of doom, monstrous creatures, and perplexing puzzles for you to solve.

Bring some friends and your sense of adventure and test your nerves at one of Alabama’s most thrilling attractions.

14. Aldridge Gardens

Aldridge Gardens, located between Pelham and Hoover, opened its doors in 2002. This 30-acre scenic garden was formerly part of a property owned by Eddie Aldridge, a notable horticulturist, and has become one of the region’s favorite attractions.

Visitors are welcome to stroll through outdoor pavilions, relax by the six-acre lake, or explore walking trails through the woods.

The meticulously maintained gardens feature a vibrant array of flowers, including the city’s official flower—the Snowflake Hydrangea.

If you time your visit correctly, Aldridge Gardens also hosts art exhibits, lakeside fishing days, and bird-watching excursions for all to enjoy.

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