Summary of Activities
Decatur is recognized as “The River City” and is situated in the northern part of Alabama along the banks of Wheeler Lake. Despite a population of approximately 55,000, the city offers a surprisingly diverse array of activities.
Before its current designation, Decatur was referred to as “Rhodes Ferry Landing,” named after Dr. Rhodes, who ran a ferry service along the river. The city was officially incorporated under the name Decatur in 1821.
Having grown up in Alabama, I take pleasure in discovering the various cities and towns within the state. I have visited Decatur multiple times, and the city consistently impresses me.
Decatur radiates a strong sense of community and provides numerous engaging activities, thus I present my curated list of the 15 best things to do in Decatur.
1. Visit Carnegie Visual Arts Center
The Carnegie Visual Arts Center resides within one of the area’s many historical buildings. This structure showcases a variety of exhibits featuring both local and national artworks. Additionally, the center offers art classes for children and adults, alongside camps and lectures.
The center is open from Tuesday to Saturday, and public admission is entirely free.
2. View Some Preserved Wildlife At Cook Museum of Natural Science
The Cook Museum of Natural Science is among the finest establishments of its kind. The museum features an extensive array of exhibits, totaling around 2,000, which include mounted birds, exotic insects, various animals, shells, corals, and minerals. There is a dedicated section exhibiting wildlife specific to the Tennessee Valley.
This section includes endangered and protected species, such as golden and bald eagles. It is advisable to allocate several hours for your visit; the museum also houses an auditorium where natural science films are screened.
3. Purchase The Freshest Fruit At Decatur Farmers’ Market
For the freshest produce, nothing surpasses the experience of directly purchasing from local growers. The Decatur Farmers’ Market operates from Monday to Saturday, typically from April through November.
The market is vibrant with numerous stalls selling fresh fruits and vegetables, often bustling with activity. Each month, a special event is held at the market, celebrating a seasonal fruit or vegetable.
4. Explore The Old State Bank
Few structures can recount as diverse a history as the Old State Bank. Established in 1832 following the authorization of three banks by the Alabama General Assembly, this building has stood for nearly two hundred years, witnessing two economic depressions and a civil war.
The building’s function has evolved, serving variously as a bank, hospital, guardhouse, and dance hall. In 1972, it was listed on the National Register of Historical Places and is adorned with numerous antiques from the Federal and Empire periods.
5. All Aboard The Pickwick Belle
The Pickwick Belle is an authentic paddle-wheeled riverboat located on Wheeler Lake, part of the Tennessee River, and it has been operational since 2012. With its twin decks, it presents a striking sight.
The lower deck comprises an enclosed dining area of 1,000 square feet, a galley, and a bar, while the upper deck, completely covered, is designed for guests wanting to enjoy scenic views. There is also a dance floor on the upper level. The boat conducts regular cruises along the river and can accommodate 112 passengers.
6. Experience The Great Outdoors At Wheeler Wildlife Refuge
The Wheeler Wildlife Refuge is an expanse of naturally preserved woodlands covering over 34,000 acres. This unique site enables visitors to appreciate wildlife in its innate habitat. Established in 1938, the refuge serves as a sanctuary for local waterfowl.
An educational center on-site features a glass observatory providing excellent views of the surrounding area. Visitors can obtain informational brochures detailing recommended tours of the refuge.
7. Visit The Oldest Park In Decatur
Delano Park is the oldest park in Decatur, offering a variety of activities and attractions. One highlight is the WPA Rose Garden, which has been meticulously restored to reflect its initial design.
First opened in 1887, the park spans 28 acres and is recognized on the National Historic Register. The “Trail of History,” stretches from the east to the west end, with informative plaques providing insights into the park and the city’s history.
Additional features include a picnic shelter, playground, and tennis courts.
8. Go For A Round At Point Mallard Golf Course
Situated within 200 acres of wooded terrain is Point Mallard Park, which features the acclaimed Point Mallard Golf Course. The course boasts eighteen holes and has received numerous accolades throughout its history, characterized by its natural beauty and harmonious integration with the land’s contours.
The course measures 6,988 yards with a par of 72, featuring several challenging slopes that enhance the excitement of the game.
9. Attend The Alabama Charity Championship Horse Show
The Alabama Charity Championship Horse Show is an annual event held each October, attracting some of the finest American Saddlebred, Hackney, and Roadster horses in the nation. Consequently, it has earned its status as the fourth-largest Saddlebred show in the United States.
Tickets for this event sell out swiftly each year. For anyone considering a visit to Decatur, planning your trip around this event is highly recommended to avoid missing it.
10. Watch National Pride At Stake At Riverfest
Americans take their BBQ competitions seriously. For over two decades, Decatur has hosted the annual Riverfest, recognized by the state of Alabama as an official State Barbecue Championship.
The winner of Riverfest qualifies for the prestigious America Royal World Championship and receives an invitation to the Jack Daniels World Championship Invitational. The festival offers an excellent opportunity to savor delectable food while observing the competition.
11. Take A Trip To Mooresville
Although not technically in Decatur, the nearby community of Mooresville is merely a two-mile drive to the north. Established in 1818, Mooresville features twelve blocks of properties lined with oak trees, which are recognized on the National Register of Historic Places.
Notable buildings include the Stage Coach Inn and Tavern, as well as an operational post office that dates back to 1840. Interestingly, the town was featured in the Walt Disney film “Tom & Huck.”
12. Explore Morgan County Archives
With an abundance of historic buildings to explore, selecting which sites to visit can be challenging during a brief trip. The Morgan County Archives should be included on your itinerary. The archives are housed in the 1927 Tennessee Valley Bank building.
Here, visitors can discover an impressive collection of 1,500 cubic feet of archives and manuscripts, dating back to 1819. The building itself is an attractive site, boasting an extensive collection of photographs, including images from the Civil War.
13. Make A Stop At Big Bob Gibson’s Bar-B-Q
Of all the activities available in Decatur, my enthusiasm peaks at the thought of visiting Big Bob Gibson’s Bar-B-Q, which has a remarkable history that is well worth experiencing during your visit to the town.
Founded in 1928, Bob Gibson initially operated from a makeshift table created from oak planks nailed to a Sycamore tree in his yard, alongside a hand-dug pit that attracted locals with its enticing aromas. Nearly one hundred years later, this family tradition remains strong, serving the community of Alabama.
To further pique your interest, this establishment has garnered numerous awards throughout its history.
