Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Helena, AL

Summary

Oak Mountain State Park
Joe Tucker Park
Kenneth R. Penhale City of Helena Museum
Blue Water Park
Hoover Metropolitan Complex
Take a Balloon Ride
Oak Mountain Amphitheatre
Ozan Winery & Vineyard
Old Town Helena
Jim ‘n’ Nicks Bar-B-Q
Aldridge Gardens
Moss Rock Preserve and Waterfalls
Warehouse31
Ballantrae Golf Club

The charming city of Helena is located 20 miles south of Birmingham, Alabama.

This city has been recognized in the ‘Best Places to Live Top 100’ list in the United States and has been ranked as the 13th ‘Best Place to Raise Your Children’. Originally called Cove, the city was renamed after a new railroad line was established during the Civil War era.

A railroad engineer named Peter Boyle designated the railway station as Helena in honor of his girlfriend, which subsequently became the town’s name.

Currently, Helena is surrounded by state parks and nature reserves. With its rich history, excellent dining options, shopping avenues, and wineries, it serves as an ideal location to stay while exploring Alabama.

As a local of Alabama, I have frequented Helena numerous times. I have several friends residing there, and I thoroughly enjoy my visits. The area offers a wealth of activities, so let us explore the top attractions in Helena:

1. Oak Mountain State Park

Established in 1927, this scenic park, situated 7 miles from Helena, has expanded to nearly 10,000 acres, making it the largest state park in Alabama.

With outstanding recreational amenities, hiking and mountain biking trails, and wildlife rehabilitation centers, it is an excellent venue for spending a day or more.

Camping overnight and picnicking under the stars are possible, and visitors can also enjoy live concerts featuring rock, country, or blues music at the outdoor amphitheater.

2. Joe Tucker Park

If you prefer minimizing travel and want to remain local to Helena, visit Joe Tucker Park.

This park features numerous children’s activities and recreational facilities, allowing extended enjoyment.

Pack a picnic with a blanket and enjoy the fields, engage in a baseball game, or challenge friends and family to tennis.

The park includes playgrounds for children and scenic walking trails where one can explore regional flora and fauna.

3. Kenneth R. Penhale City of Helena Museum

This small yet informative museum provides insights into the history of Helena, conveyed through photographs, artifacts, and documents.

Situated in a structure dating back to the late 1800s, the exhibition features various themes from military history, the railroad’s construction, to impactful events like the tornado that nearly devastated the city. After your visit and inquiries with the knowledgeable volunteers, consider strolling to the nearby Buck Creek for lunch or dinner at a local restaurant.

4. Blue Water Park

If you believed that scuba diving necessitated a trip to the coast, consider Blue Water Park in nearby Pelham, which accommodates divers of all ages and skill levels, providing training and equipment for those keen to embrace the underwater challenge.

One can undertake scuba diving courses with experienced instructors and earn various certificates at the park.

Alternatively, if you prefer to remain above the water, glide across the lake in a kayak or canoe, appreciating the tranquil scenery. This activity is both enjoyable and relaxing!

5. Hoover Metropolitan Complex

Sports enthusiasts visiting this section of Alabama might consider a trip to Hoover Metropolitan Complex.

The stadium accommodates up to 10,000 spectators and hosts a variety of sporting events, concerts, and banquets annually.

It was formerly the home of the Birmingham Barons baseball team until 2012 and currently hosts the SEC Baseball Tournament, as well as serving as a venue for local high school football matches.

Should any games coincide with your visit, it’s an excellent location to connect with fellow sports enthusiasts, while supporting and cheering for the local team.

6. Take a Balloon Ride

If ascending in a multicolored hot air balloon is on your list of experiences to try, this opportunity is closer than you might think. Ascend high with the birds, gazing down at urban skylines juxtaposed with patchwork fields and forests, as you glide over the charming Alabama landscape.

This experience can be tailored for a romantic outing for couples, a family adventure, or a celebratory birthday gathering with friends.

Multiple hot air balloon operators exist within Alabama, including a few miles from Helena. It is advisable to plan ahead and consider prevailing weather conditions to avoid potential cancellations.

7. Oak Mountain Amphitheatre

Oak Mountain Amphitheatre has been a venue for numerous iconic figures in the music industry.

Positioned at the edge of the state park, this outdoor arena offers an idyllic environment to experience music and nature simultaneously.

Esteemed country artist Willie Nelson, among others such as Lynyrd Skynyrd and Counting Crows, has performed here, with John Mayer even recording one of his concert DVDs in this venue.

Camping is available in the park after concerts, allowing visitors to reminisce with familiar melodies and fellowship under the starlit sky.

8. Ozan Winery & Vineyard

Located just a 17-mile drive from Helena, the award-winning Ozan Winery and Vineyard presents diverse opportunities for visitors.

You can engage in a cellar tour to understand the winemaking process, embark on a train adventure to the vineyards, or relish dining at the on-site bistro.

Moreover, you can pair Ozan Vineyard wines with lunch or acquire a few bottles as a memento of your visit to Alabama.

If you appreciate a robust red wine, the Ozan Cabernet is highly recommended, showcasing a pleasing fruit-forward profile from American oak barrels. For those favoring a crisp white, the Ozan Riesling is an exceptional selection.

9. Old Town Helena

Connecting the center to Buck Creek, Old Town Helena is a delightful area to explore.

With its relaxed, inviting atmosphere, outstanding dining options, bar establishments, and gift shops, there is something for all ages to enjoy.

One can walk to Helena Park to observe Buck Creek Waterfall, stroll along the waterside trail, or experience an entertaining performance at Helena Amphitheater.

Wander alongside the railroad to envision what life was like when industry first came to the area and discover what makes this charming city beloved by visitors and locals alike.

10. Jim ‘n’ Nicks Bar-B-Q

One of the most frequented BBQ establishments in the region, and a personal favorite, is Jim ‘n’ Nicks.

The restaurant prides itself on utilizing fresh ingredients, premium cuts of meat, and meticulous attention to detail within their cooking processes.

Whether you are inclined to sample their signature slow-smoked pulled pork dishes, BBQ chicken topped with sauce, or the generously portioned sharing platter – Mr Jim’s Deluxe Combo, you will undoubtedly find yourself returning for more before your visit concludes.

11. Aldridge Gardens

The harmonious blend of Nature and Art can be experienced at Aldridge Gardens, situated in nearby Hoover. The 30-acre former estate of horticulturist Eddie Aldridge is among the most sought-after attractions in the suburbs of Birmingham.

Among its highlights is the exquisite Snowflake Hydrangea, recognized as the official flower of Hoover City.

Furthermore, visitors have the opportunity to view temporary art exhibits within the gardens or enhance their painting or drawing skills through instructional classes.

The gardens are home to various bird species, diverse plants, and floral displays, alongside a six-acre lake complemented by surrounding walking paths for recreational enjoyment.

12. Moss Rock Preserve and Waterfalls

Outdoor enthusiasts will relish a visit to Moss Rock Preserve and Waterfalls.

Featuring nearly 12 miles of hiking trails, visitors can explore the natural beauty of the preserve on foot.

This expansive area encompasses 349 acres, home to climbing spots, cascading waterfalls, flowing streams, verdant forests, and a wealth of wildlife.

The preserve is recognized for its diversity of 143 bird species, making it ideal for nature lovers. Hence, be sure to take along your walking shoes, a camera, binoculars, and a picnic to fully enjoy a day of recreational activities in this beautiful part of Alabama.

13. Warehouse31

Warehouse31 stands as one of Alabama’s most frightening attractions.

This haunted house experience is not for the faint of heart, offering locked rooms, ominous tunnels, eerie cemeteries, and asylums, epitomizing a truly ghoulish adventure.

As you navigate the trails, encountering arcane libraries and unsettling autopsy rooms, the intensity builds until you reach Monsters Midway, a place to unwind with snacks, beverages, and carnival games.

From this point, you can decide whether to brave the horror once more…

14. Ballantrae Golf Club

Ballantrae Golf Club, crafted by the well-regarded golf course designer Bob Cupp, offers a notable public 18-hole course in nearby Pelham.

This course, surrounded by rolling hills, water features, and lush trees, provides a stimulating experience for golfers of all proficiency levels.

With pristine yet challenging fairways and expertly maintained greens, this exceptional course presents an ideal opportunity to unwind for a few hours alongside fellow enthusiasts.

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