Top 15 Activities in Eufaula, Alabama You’ll Love

The picturesque city of Eufaula is situated along the Alabama-Georgia border, nestled by the shores of Walter F. George Lake.

The Creek Indians ceded most of their territory east of the Mississippi River to the United States with the Treaty of Cusseta in 1832, enabling settlers to acquire land from the tribe.

By 1835, a significant portion of land in this Alabama region was acquired, primarily by William Irwin, leading to the settlement being referred to as “Irwinton.” Eventually, as the city developed, it was renamed Eufaula in honor of a Native American tribe indigenous to the area.

Contemporary visits to Eufaula reveal charming historic districts, splendid mansions, and inviting Indian Creek Trails. Moreover, a rich cultural heritage awaits discovery in nearby parks, alongside lakes, and in the various monuments that adorn the city.

1. Walter F. George Lake (Lake Eufaula)

This lake, named in honor of U.S. Senator Walter F. George, lies at the border of Alabama and Georgia.

It is frequently referred to as Lake Eufaula, named after the Native American tribe sharing the same name.

Stretching approximately 85 miles, the lake features a dam and lock.

It is an esteemed destination for fishing and boating, as well as hiking, camping, and picnicking, with many protected areas teeming with diverse flora and fauna.

Known among anglers as the “Big Bass Capital of the World,” it offers an enticing experience for those wishing to immerse themselves in nature. If you find yourself in Eufaula, this attraction is conveniently close by.

2. Eufaula National Wildlife Refuge

Established to ensure a secure habitat for both resident wildlife and migratory birds, the Eufaula National Wildlife Refuge is a notable destination.

Its main area lies seven miles north of Eufaula along the Chattahoochee River.

The refuge features a mosaic of wetlands, fields, grasslands, woodlands, and open water, which together create a unique environment supporting approximately 40 species of mammals, reptiles, fish, and over 300 varieties of birds.

Visitors are encouraged to bring cameras or binoculars to observe American alligators in the wetlands, white-tailed deer in fields and woodlands, and Great Blue Herons by the waters.

3. Fendall Hall

Fendall Hall was constructed by Edward Brown Young, a New Yorker who became a notable figure in Eufaula’s community.

He is credited for facilitating the city’s name transition from Irwinton to Eufaula, and the mansion bears the name of his spouse, Ann Fendall Beall from Georgia.

Constructed in the Italianate style during the mid-1850s to the 1860s, it exhibits a crown cupola and an expansive villa layout.

Visitors can explore this character-rich residence through guided tours, which elucidate the history of its inhabitants, art, and artifacts.

4. The Tree that Owns Itself

In 1935, the president of a local garden club sought to preserve a remarkable 200-year-old, 65-foot oak tree located near the heart of Eufaula.

The mayor, Graves, recognized the tree as a divine gift, and thus it was deemed to possess the ability to “own itself,” encompassing its branches, trunk, and roots. Consequently, a wrought iron fence was erected around it, accompanied by a plaque detailing the tree’s unique status.

In 1961, the oak succumbed to a storm, which left the community sorrowful over the loss of their natural landmark.

Thankfully, a local business intervened, planting a new oak that enjoys the same ownership rights as its predecessor.

The Tree that Owns Itself can be found at the intersection of Highland Avenue and Cotton Avenue in Eufaula.

5. Seth Lore and Irwinton Historic District

Prior to its designation as Eufaula, the settlement was referred to as Irwinton, and remnants of this early settlement are still visible in the Seth Lore and Irwinton Historic District.

The district encompasses over 700 architecturally significant structures, highlighting a collection of well-preserved homes, businesses, churches, and other significant buildings.

These edifices represent various architectural styles from the years 1825 to 1949, showcasing Late Victorian, Greek Revival, Classical Revival, and Gothic Revival designs.

A stroll through East Broad Street, North Randolph Avenue, and North Eufaula Avenue will reveal exceptional examples of these styles.

6. Manny the 12-Foot-Tall Fish

Eufaula and its surrounding locales proudly proclaim their title as the “Big Bass Capital of the World.” To commemorate this achievement, a 12-foot-tall statue of a Largemouth Bass named “Manny” was erected on East Broad Street. The statue honors Tom Mann, a prominent lure-maker known for his contributions to bass fishing globally.

Although the statue was recently unveiled in 2018, it has quickly become a popular attraction for visitors.

The hope surrounding this impressive statue is that it will ignite a social media trend, consequently attracting more anglers and tourists to the city.

7. Florence Marina State Park

Once a territory of Native Americans, this stunning state park is located on the northern banks of Walter F. George Lake.

It boasts an abundance of natural beauty, featuring numerous forested walking trails and a deep-water marina that is ideal for fishing.

Whether your interests lean towards boating, exploring local Native American history, or bird-watching, Florence Marina State Park offers something for everyone.

The park is particularly popular among bird-watchers; sightings of bald eagles, egrets, and herons are common here. If you prefer to spend an evening under the stars with family and friends, it is possible to pitch a tent or rent a cottage alongside the water.

Whichever you choose, Florence Marina State Park provides the perfect setting for relaxation and enjoyment on the Georgia-Alabama border.

8. Providence Canyon

While Arizona is home to the iconic Grand Canyon, the city of Lumpkin, located in the neighboring state of Georgia, offers its own smaller version.

Providence Canyon State Park is a mere 22 miles away from Eufaula, making it a convenient day trip for families.

Despite its smaller scale compared to its Arizona counterpart, this scenic park features several canyons ready for exploration.

The stunning pink, purple, white, red, and orange hues of the soil create a captivating environment for photography and landscape painting. Additionally, the park boasts over 10 miles of hiking trails that lead along the edges of the forested canyons.

Astronomy programs are organized throughout the year at the park, which also features a seasonal visitor center and museum where guests can learn about the area’s early inhabitants.

Nature enthusiasts will appreciate that the unique Plumleaf Azalea blooms exclusively in this park during the peak of summer.

9. Superior Pecans and Gifts

If you are in search of a distinctive memento from your Eufaula visit, consider a trip to Superior Pecans and Gifts, located in the city’s historic district on East Broad Street.

This establishment features a unique “Pecan Handstack” gift option, along with a selection of spiced, roasted, coated, and candied pecans, ensuring you can find an ideal gift for someone special.

Additionally, there is an on-site café that serves gourmet milkshakes, coffee, and ice cream. You can even ship your purchases home directly from the store, making it convenient to take a piece of Eufaula with you. Whether you seek jams, jellies, brittles, candies, or a delightful assortment of pecans, this store has it all!

10. Shorter Mansion

The original Classic Revival mansion in Eufaula was constructed in 1884 by Eli Sims Shorter II. The version visible today was reconstructed in 1906 following a fire that consumed the original structure.

This mansion, passed down through generations of the Shorter family, is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, illustrating life in Eufaula during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Guided tours showcase the mansion’s beautifully manicured grounds, exquisite architecture, and inviting interior, which houses displays of period costumes, Civil War artifacts, and photographs, making it a valuable stop for those interested in local history.

11. Yoholo Micco Indian Creek Trail

The name Yoholo Micco refers to a Creek Indian Chief from Eufaula who, along with his tribe, was forcibly removed from the area in 1836.

This trail marks their exodus, known today as the “Trail of Tears,” eventually leading to Oklahoma.

For those who wish to retrace Yoholo Micco and his tribe’s path, the trail begins at the Eufaula-Barbour County Chamber of Commerce.

This scenic route meanders through woodlands and forests, crossing the lake via a railroad track and leading to the site of an ancient Native American village.

12. Barb’s Country Kitchen

Barb’s Country Kitchen is a widely admired restaurant situated in Downtown Eufaula, Alabama.

This classic diner offers comforting, traditional meals in a vibrant atmosphere.

The buffet-style menu features options such as fried chicken, cornbread, collard greens, and assorted meat and vegetable platters.

Visitors enjoy friendly service, reasonable pricing, and are encouraged to save room for their delectably prepared fruit or pecan pies before departing.

13. Donut King

For those with a penchant for sweet treats, Donut King is a must-visit destination in Eufaula.

Housed in a delightful timber building at the corner of South Eufaula Avenue and West Washington Street, this hidden gem offers an array of delectable donuts in various shapes and flavors.

Whether you crave donuts coated in chocolate and sprinkles or filled with cream or custard, you will find an extensive selection here.

This establishment is an ideal location to gather provisions for a lakeside picnic or simply indulge in a coffee alongside your favorite pastry.

14. Lakepoint Resort State Park

This scenic park, situated on the banks of Lake Eufaula, serves as a delightful recreational space where both residents and tourists can enjoy the outdoors.

Lakepoint Resort State Park provides numerous accommodations, including a hotel, RV sites, cottages, and camping grounds, making it a suitable destination for family outings or group trips.

Activities available range from hiking and tennis to swimming, fishing, and bird-watching.

If a break from travel and exploration is what you seek, Lakepoint Resort State Park, located just 9 miles from Eufaula, covers all your needs.

15. Fairview Cemetery

Although it may seem unusual to include a cemetery on a list of attractions in Eufaula, Fairview Cemetery offers a distinctive experience.

It boasts a remarkable location on a bluff overlooking the river and features information, statues, and graves of many individuals who played significant roles in shaping Eufaula.

Designed by the renowned Olmsted Brothers in 1868, this cemetery also encompasses a wide variety of plant, flower, and tree species.

Many of these species have been cataloged, and throughout the year, guided walking tours are available to further explore the grounds and their botanical diversity.