Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Cullman, Alabama

The vibrant city of Cullman is situated equally between Birmingham and Huntsville within the state of Alabama. Historically, this region was Cherokee territory and featured a notable trail known as the Black Warrior’s Path, which meandered along the edge of the river.

The city was established by Colonel John G. Cullman, a European settler originally from Bavaria, Germany, in 1873. Its German heritage continues to be showcased through Cullman’s museums, abbey, parks, and regional landmarks. Additionally, in 2012, Cullman was recognized as one of the ’50 Best Places to Raise Your Kids’ in the United States.

As a native of Alabama, I enjoy visiting Cullman as it offers a plethora of outdoor activities to experience in and around the city. Let’s delve into the premier attractions to explore in Cullman:

1. Ave Maria Grotto

Ave Maria Grotto ranks among the most celebrated tourist destinations in Cullman. This picturesque 4-acre park features 125 miniature replicas of some of the world’s most renowned religious structures. The remarkable stone sculptures were crafted by Brother Joseph Zoetle, a Benedictine monk who once resided at the adjacent St. Bernard’s Abbey.

The grotto’s sculptures exhibit meticulous attention to detail, decorated with colored glass, marble, and tiles. During my visit, I was particularly struck by the replica of St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City, alongside replicas depicting Old Jerusalem and numerous other religious landmarks from around the globe.

Even for those who are not religious, this mesmerizing attraction is essential when visiting Cullman.

If your itinerary extends beyond Cullman to other areas of North Alabama, consider exploring the North Alabama Multi-Attraction Pass. This pass includes entry to the Ave Maria Grotto as well as access to additional prominent attractions in the region.

2. Sportsman Lake Park

Sportsman Lake Park serves as a family-friendly recreational destination nestled in the heart of Cullman. This scenic lakeside park provides an array of fun activities for visitors of all ages, including paddle boat rides, picnicking, biking, and hiking.

During warmer weather, a Splash Pad is available for children, along with a small train that provides transportation around the lake. Additionally, the park features an 18-hole pitch-n-putt golf course, allowing guests to engage in a friendly challenge during their visit.

3. Clarkson Covered Bridge

Constructed in 1904, Clarkson Covered Bridge is one of Cullman’s most prominent landmarks. The bridge originally functioned as a passage for travelers and farmers crossing the creek until it was severely damaged by a storm in 1921. After undergoing repairs to restore it to its original condition, the bridge has become a focal point within the park.

Subsequent additions include hiking trails, picnic areas, a Dogtrot log cabin, and a functioning grist mill, all of which emphasize the historical importance of the region. Although vehicular traffic is no longer permitted on the bridge, visitors can still walk around and capture photographs of this remarkable attraction in Cullman.

4. Cullman County Museum

Cullman, founded in 1873 by Colonel John G. Cullman, an immigrant from Bavaria, Germany, is represented in the Cullman County Museum. This institution offers insights into the city’s early development as a German settlement, its historical role during the Civil War, and displays regarding the area’s Native American heritage.

A leisurely walk along the museum’s ‘Main Street’ provides a glimpse into life in Cullman during the 1800s, featuring decorated storefronts and historic homes to explore. The museum also includes a Music Room, where visitors can enjoy the harmonious sounds of Americana music created by the region’s earliest inhabitants.

For those interested in further immersing themselves in Cullman’s captivating history, this museum is an excellent venue to spend a few hours.

5. St. Bernard Abbey

St. Bernard Abbey in Cullman possesses a rich historical narrative, commencing in the 1840s when monks arrived from Germany to establish monastic life in America.

Presently, this Benedictine community thrives, housing monks dedicated to serving God and distancing themselves from modern life’s distractions. The monastery welcomes visitors for tours and is also home to Ave Maria Grotto, as previously mentioned, which features 125 sculptures representing various cities and religious edifices globally.

6. Smith Farms

Established in 1955, Smith Farms began as a simple roadside stall selling cured meats and seasonal produce. Today, Ed Smith’s creation is renowned nationwide for producing exceptional ‘Southern-tasting’ products crafted using traditional family recipes and techniques. Their pork is expertly cured, while their ham, sausages, and bacon are smoked over genuine hickory wood.

In addition to meats, customers can purchase grits, muffins, porridge, cheeses, and honey at this farm store. Therefore, if you find yourself in or near Cullman, it is advisable to bypass the local supermarket and visit Smith Farms for picnic supplies and self-catering items during your stay.

7. Goat Island Brewing

At Goat Island Brewing, their motto is ‘Life is too short to consume inferior beer.’ Fortunately, this brewhouse exclusively offers high-quality, refreshing beers, which you can savor during your stay in Cullman.

I recommend their award-winning Richter’s Pils – a light golden pilsner rooted in a recipe from the late 1800s, crafted by William Frederick Richter.

Alternatively, you might enjoy Sipsey River Red, an aromatic amber to red ale with an excellent balance of malt and European hops. During my visit with friends, we savored quite a few glasses of this delightful brew!

8. Hurricane Creek Park

Nestled within a deep gorge in the Appalachian foothills lies Hurricane Creek Park. Spanning over 60 acres, this park offers nature trails, hiking opportunities, rock climbing, and birdwatching sites, making it an ideal locale for a day of outdoor enjoyment and relaxation.

The park’s paths wind through breathtaking rock formations, cliffs, and waterfalls, providing an exceptional backdrop for picnics and photography.

9. Steele Orchard

Located just outside Cullman in North Central Alabama, Steele Orchard features a gift shop and bakery, representing an excellent venue to acquire fresh, hand-picked apples, peaches, and plums.

The bakery is famous for its delicious Southern fried pies, caramel apples, and homemade jellies and jams. I thoroughly appreciated my tour of the orchard, where informative discussions encompassed the processes of planting, pollination, harvesting, and production.

Demonstrations illustrating cider production from 20 distinct apple varieties cultivated on the farm are available, while younger guests can entertain themselves in the orchard’s playful maze.

10. Smith Lake Park

Situated on the banks of the 21-acre Lewis Smith Lake, which boasts over 500 miles of picturesque shoreline, Smith Lake Park is an ideal location for an overnight retreat. The park also hosts festivals and events throughout the year.

Visitors can enjoy a range of accommodations, including cabins and campsites, as well as areas for grilling and picnicking. Recreational offerings include children’s playgrounds, boating, a fishing pier, and a swimming pool. Conveniently, the park is located just 12 miles southwest of Cullman, making it an easily accessible option for a day trip.

11. Alabama Flyboard

Adrenaline seekers will welcome the chance to experience Flyboarding. This exhilarating activity allows participants to soar 40 feet above water, resembling a superhero, with options to record the experience for later sharing. Choose from a GoPro Video Package to film your flight or partake in a 30-minute or 1-hour Flyboard training session.

This adventure constitutes a thrilling outing for families with older children, as well as couples and friends eager for a new and stimulating experience.

12. Johnny’s BBQ

Since 1949, Johnny’s BBQ has served the residents of Cullman with a cozy family atmosphere. This BBQ establishment offers a delectable array of catfish, chicken, pork, and ribs that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. During my visit, I was impressed by the substantial portion sizes and the prompt, friendly service.

Whether you seek a hearty breakfast to kick-start a day of exploration, a light midday meal, or a fulfilling dinner, Johnny’s BBQ has something enjoyable for every palate.

13. Bankhead National Forest

The picturesque Bankhead National Forest is one of four designated forests in Alabama, also encompassing the National Wild and Scenic River known as the Sipsey Fork. The park was named in honor of William B. Bankhead, a U.S. representative, and was established in 1918.

This national forest is a favored destination for horseback riding, fishing, swimming, canoeing, and boating. It is famously referred to as the “land of a thousand waterfalls,” due to the plentiful streams and cascading falls that adorn the landscape.

A treasure trove of history resides within the forest as well, highlighted by Native American petroglyphs, rock carvings, and prehistoric art, making this location a compelling site for exploration.

14. Weiss Cottage

Should you opt for a self-guided walking tour through Downtown Cullman, I highly recommend visiting Weiss Cottage. This charming white wood-panel home is the city’s eldest house, featuring a traditional porch and decorative posts.

Exemplifying early architectural styles in Cullman, the cottage showcases its German lineage through its European chalet-style features. The intricate details make this historic residence a captivating visit.

Throughout the restoration, multiple layers of wallpaper were removed to reveal the original pattern, and old medical instruments belonging to Doctor Weiss are displayed within the property, in addition to a historic quilt crafted by the local community draped over the bed.

Visitors interested in touring Weiss Cottage may do so by appointment via the Cullman County Museum.