Top 25 Attractions and Activities in Dothan, Alabama

Over thirty years ago, Dothan was ranked among the “Worst Places to Live in the United States.” Since then, significant improvements have transformed the city, promoting a robust economic infrastructure and offering numerous activities for residents and visitors alike.

Dothan is a modestly sized city in Alabama, home to approximately 70,000 residents. This size fosters a genuine sense of community upon arrival. Throughout the city, you’ll find numerous references to peanuts, as Dothan proudly claims the title of “The Peanut Capital of the World.”

As a local from Alabama, I have a passion for exploring the state and uncovering its hidden treasures. Dothan stands out as a city filled with activities and sights! Below is my curated list of the top 25 things to experience in Dothan:

1. Spend The Day At Adventureland

For families seeking an enjoyable day out in Dothan, Adventureland serves as an ideal starting point. The park features an array of entertaining activities for children, including go-carts, bumper boats, and arcade games. Two miniature golf courses are available for family participation as well.

Family passes are available for purchase, and the park extends its hours in the evenings during certain seasons. It truly is a delightful place for children of all ages.

2. Catch A Movie At Continental Drive-In

If you have yet to experience a drive-in cinema, I highly recommend it! The Continental Drive-In in Dothan is particularly noteworthy and should certainly be included in your itinerary. Managed by Jeff and Chase Taylor, this cinema is THX certified and boasts four screens.

Upon arrival, guests pay for the chosen screen, which allows for two back-to-back films with a ten-minute intermission between each. Simply adjust your car’s radio frequency to the selected screen, sit back, and enjoy the experience.

3. A Night At The Opera With Dothan Opera House

The Dothan Opera House has been in operation for over a century, captivating thousands of guests. The venue’s acoustics are so remarkable that the Atlanta Symphony chose to record their music here. While the building has undergone various renovations throughout the years, it has consistently remained true to its origins.

This intimate venue accommodates 590 patrons and frequently hosts operas, beauty pageants, and community theater productions. A diverse calendar of events is available, showcasing a range of genres, so be sure to check its schedule while in town.

4. Make A Visit To Cherry Street AME Church

Cherry Street African Methodist Episcopal Church holds the distinction of being the oldest of its kind in Alabama. The church commemorated its 135th anniversary in 2012 and continues to thrive annually. Its origin dates back to 1877 when it was a modest wooden structure adjacent to a graveyard.

As time progressed, local schoolchildren would collect discarded bricks from nearby brickyards to construct the church. The church remains at the heart of community activities and is cherished by local residents.

5. Come To The National Peanut Festival

Every year, Dothan hosts the largest peanut festival in the nation. Many may not be aware that Dothan is recognized as the “Peanut Capital of the World.” Nearly all peanuts cultivated in the United States come from within a hundred miles of this city. Initially a modest event, the festival now lasts ten days and attracts approximately 150,000 attendees each year.

During the festival, numerous attractions, concerts, and activities are available for the entire family, along with countless peanuts to enjoy. The first festival was held in 1938, and it has continued annually since, excluding only the interruption during World War II.

6. Look Up At The Peanut King

Having established that Dothan is the “Peanut Capital of the World,” it is worthwhile to visit the Dr. George Washington Carver Monument. This monument, standing over six feet tall, honors the individual who created over 300 different uses for peanuts.

Moreover, he initiated the inaugural National Peanut Festival in 1938.

7. Admire The Plant Life At Dothan Area Botanical Gardens

The Dothan Area Botanical Gardens encompasses 50 acres of land featuring nature trails, cultivated gardens, and wooded landscapes. Operated by volunteers, the gardens have been open to the public for nearly two decades.

Visitors will find an abundance of sights and experiences, easily losing track of time while exploring. Highlights include a vegetable garden that supplies food to the local food bank, a gazebo, and love gate often used for weddings, as well as an outdoor classroom nestled in nature.

8. Go For A Bowl At The Dothan Lanes

At times, the desire for a fun game of ten-pin bowling arises, and it is an excellent activity for friends and family alike. The Dothan Lanes frequently offers promotions, including special deals where children can bowl for free during the summer months.

The lanes have been recently refurbished and are in excellent condition, complemented by a friendly and helpful staff.

9. Time For a Round At Dothan National Golf Club

For golf enthusiasts, the Dothan National Golf Club is highly recommended. Founded in 1968, it features an 18-hole championship course that has hosted the SEC Championship multiple times. This expansive course spans 7,500 yards and holds a rating of 75.8, nestled in the picturesque lower hills of Alabama.

Golfers will appreciate the abundant wildlife, particularly the white and black fox squirrels that roam the greens. The club welcomes all, and the green fees are reasonable.

10. The United States Army Aviation Museum

The U.S. Army Aviation Museum features the largest collection of helicopters and airplanes used by the Army throughout the years. These vehicles were deployed for troop transport, cargo movement, and reconnaissance missions in enemy territories.

The museum presents a variety of permanent and temporary exhibitions, including a tribute to the 4,347 personnel who lost their lives in Vietnam. It also houses the Army Aviation Hall of Fame, showcasing the bravery and achievements of decorated soldiers.

11. Take A Trip To Farley Nuclear Visitor Center

The Farley Nuclear Power Plant supplies energy to the residents of Dothan and boasts a visitor center where guests can learn about the energy generation process. Construction began in 1970, with the plant officially opening in 1977 at a cost of $1.57 billion.

This facility plays a crucial role in the local economy, providing both power and employment opportunities for the community.

12. Learn African-American History At The G. W. Carver Interpretive Museum

In addition to the National Peanut Festival and the monument in his honor, the George W. Carver Interpretive Museum aims to educate the public about the significant contributions of African-Americans to U.S. history.

The museum features permanent exhibitions titled “Designing the World We Live In” and “Black Scientists, Inventors and Explorers,” along with the Carver Room dedicated to the achievements and works of Carver himself.

13. Take A Look At Joseph Monument

The Joseph Monument, a ten-foot-tall bronze sculpture, is situated in the center of Millennium Park and features a biblical scripture at its base: “Let us go to Dothan,” derived from Genesis 37:17.

This scripture inspired the city’s founders to rename it from Poplar Head to Dothan.

14. Explore Landmark Park

Landmark Park serves as Alabama’s Official Museum of Agriculture, offering visitors a space to relax and explore. Covering 135 acres just outside of Dothan, the park features an array of attractions, including a living history farm from the 1890s, a one-room schoolhouse, a planetarium, and a drugstore, among numerous others.

Nature trails, picnic areas, boardwalks, and wildlife exhibits provide additional opportunities for enjoyment, making it an excellent destination for visitors.

15. Time For A Farmers Market

Every Saturday morning during the summer, Dothan locals flock to the Poplar Head Farmers Market. This open-air market offers fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, and locally produced specialties. Nestled in the historic district, the market is a cherished favorite among residents and visitors alike.

Activities for children and occasional live music enhance the experience.

16. Anyone For Clay Pigeon Shooting?

Located just minutes from Dothan, Ravenwood Sporting Clays spans 43 acres of woodland, providing an excellent environment for shooting practice or participating in local competitions. The facility recently unveiled a new clubhouse equipped with large-screen televisions, a kitchen, and an outdoor fire pit. Additionally, a three-level practice area is available for those looking to warm up before heading out to the course.

The facility incorporates digital technology to streamline the experience for maximum shooting time.

17. Play A Round At The Roundabout Golf Course

The Roundabout Plantation Golf Course provides an enjoyable golfing experience, featuring a championship-standard course adorned with beautiful Tiff Eagle greens. Throughout your round, you can enjoy five stunning lakes set against wonderful trees and greenery. The course stretches 6,769 yards and offers a complete 18-hole experience, welcoming visitors year-round. Promotions may be available, so it is advisable to inquire beforehand.

18. Visit The World’s Smallest City Block

Dothan boasts a rather peculiar world record for having the smallest city block. This small triangular plot of land features a stop sign and a monument that documents its unique distinction, as listed in the Guinness Book of Records and the Believe It or Not! Museum.

The block is reported to have comprised a single building measuring 38 feet in length and 27 feet in width.

19. Murals Of The Wiregrass

Historic downtown Dothan is adorned with numerous murals worth discovering. A leisurely drive or walk around the city allows visitors to encounter these artistic expressions. One can start in Museum Avenue and follow a local guide to fully appreciate these pieces.

The murals depict significant local events and landmarks, including early commerce activities and the Fort Rucker Army Base. A casual exploration of these sites offers both education about the city’s history and delightful visual experiences.

20. Spend Time At The Wiregrass Museum

Dothan earned its reputation as one of the “Worst Places to Live in America” in 1986, which prompted the mayor at that time to appoint three local citizens to assess the feasibility of establishing a museum. Subsequently, two years later, the decision was made to construct a visual arts museum.

The Wiregrass Museum showcases local artwork and regularly updates its exhibitions, ensuring visitors always find something new. During my visit, I encountered exhibitions focused on Blues music and American Folk Artists.

21. Go For A Skate At Fun Zone Center

The Fun Zone Skate Center in Dothan provides 20,000 square feet of entertainment for children and families, featuring activities such as laser tag, a rock climbing wall, bumper cars, and video games. The primary attraction, however, is the skating area, suitable for all skill levels, with lessons available for those wishing to enhance their abilities.

Regular roller disco events are hosted for family enjoyment, complete with an in-house DJ.

22. Make A Splash At Water World Water Park

Water World Water Park caters to families, providing opportunities for group swimming or relaxing poolside. The park features a large wave pool sure to delight children, along with a triple flume water slide.

A kiddie splash pool is available for younger children to enjoy safely. Recently, a thrilling new attraction called the Great White Slide has been introduced for those seeking an adrenaline rush. After a day of water fun, visitors can head to the arcade to play the latest games available.

23. Time For Lunch At The Basketcase Café

The Basketcase Café has established itself as a beloved establishment among Dothan residents. Opened in 1989 by Donna Blevins Balzaratti, the café has flourished since its inception, gaining recognition in various magazines and featuring Donna on television.

Upon receiving the menu, I immediately gravitate towards the sandwich section to sample the renowned Chicken Salad and Soup, which consists of a chicken salad sandwich on a homemade bun paired with a cup of soup. This dish has garnered a loyal following among diners, who return time and again for more.

24. Spend The Night In The Luxurious Hilton Garden Inn

For those seeking luxurious accommodations near Dothan Airport, the Hilton Garden Inn is an excellent choice. The hotel features an outdoor pool and a fitness center, enabling guests to maintain their fitness routine before dining at the Great American Grill Restaurant.

Accommodations range from cozy standard rooms to spacious King suites, making it a perfect place to unwind after a long journey and prepare for your Dothan adventures.