Evergreen: Best Things to Do in North Alabama: Evergreen Venue

Embark on a culinary and adventure-filled journey through North Alabama, where scenic landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture converge to offer an unforgettable experience. From bustling cities to quaint towns nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, our region beckons with a diverse array of attractions and activities for every traveler. Enjoy this list of some of the best things to do in North Alabama near our wedding venue!

Address: 730 Ramsey Road Rainbow City, AL 35906

Welcome to North Alabama: A Fusion of Flavor and Adventure

The Region’s Rich Heritage and Natural Beauty

Our wedding venue is a historic chapel that we newly renovated to preserve the space and give back to our community. Browse the map below for things to do and places to see in Rainbow City AL.

North Alabama is an alluring tapestry interwoven with deep historical roots that stretch back to the early 19th century. The region’s past is lovingly preserved in towns like Mooresville, where buildings from the year of Alabama’s induction as a state still stand.

Balancing Adventure With Culinary Delights

As we journey through North Alabama, we immerse ourselves in the captivating scenery we can’t forget about the diverse culinary delights that this renowned region offers. Combining outdoor adventures with delicious dining experiences creates a truly enriching exploration. Picture conquering a rugged cliff followed by indulging in mouthwatering barbecue, or drifting along a tranquil river before savoring artisan cheeses at a nearby farm.

Savor the Local BBQ Traditions

North Alabama proudly carries the torch for Southern barbecue, a tradition steeped in hours of smoking and generations of pitmasters perfecting their craft. When you dig into the succulent pulled pork or savor the fall-off-the-bone ribs, you’re not just having a meal; you’re tasting a piece of local heritage. The region boasts a plethora of sauces ranging from tangy vinegar-based to sweet, molasses-infused concoctions, each telling its own story of regional preference and family legacy.

Sample the Freshness at Farm-to-Table Eateries

Imagine ingredients so fresh they could have been harvested just moments before reaching your plate—that’s the pride of farm-to-table eateries in North Alabama. These establishments, often nestled within the heartland’s rolling hills or perched along bustling street corners, are a testament to the region’s agricultural bounty. Sample heirloom vegetables, savor grass-fed meats, and relish in artisanal cheeses, each bite imbued with the essence of local farms and the hardworking hands that till them.

Restaurants in North AL

• Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q (Decatur, AL) Address: 1715 6th Ave SE, Decatur, AL 35601
• The Bottle (Huntsville, AL) Address: 101 Washington St NE, Huntsville, AL 35801
• Highlands Bar and Grill (Birmingham, AL) Address: 2011 11th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35205
• Dreamland Bar-B-Que (Birmingham, AL) Address: 1427 14th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35205
• Whisk’d Cafe (Rainbow City, AL) Address: 3016 Rainbow Dr, Rainbow City, AL 35906

Toast to Craft Breweries and Distilleries

The craft beer and spirits scene in North Alabama mirrors the region’s vibrancy and diversity. Let’s celebrate at local breweries deeply invested in their communities and equally passionate about crafting exceptional brews. Each sip unveils a unique take, from rich, velvety stouts to refreshing, aromatic IPAs, showcasing the ingenuity of our local brewers. And let’s not overlook the distilleries, where time-honored whiskey-making traditions blend seamlessly with contemporary techniques, resulting in spirits that warm both body and spirit. Whether we’re raising a glass with friends or unwinding after a day’s adventure, North Alabama’s breweries and distilleries invite us to toast to craftsmanship and unforgettable moments. Cheers to good times and exceptional libations!

Winery Tours

• Jules J. Berta Vineyards (Albertville, AL) Address: 1409 Darden Ave, Albertville, AL 35951
• Morgan Creek Vineyards (Harpersville, AL) Address: 181 Morgan Creek Lane, Harpersville, AL 35078
• Ozan Vineyard & Winery (Calera, AL) Address: 173 County Road 301, Calera, AL 35040
• Wills Creek Vineyards (Attalla, AL) Address: 10522 Duck Springs Rd, Attalla, AL 35954
• Maraella Winery (Hokes Bluff, AL) Address: 5296 County Road 222, Hokes Bluff, AL 35903

Explore the Great Outdoors of North Alabama

The Bankhead National Forest is a popular spot to soak in nature in North Alabama. Immerse yourself in the verdant embrace of Alabama’s largest national forest. Here, you can meander through miles of hiking trails, some leading to hidden waterfalls and others unveiling expansive views from limestone bluffs. It’s not just a walk through the woods; it’s a dance with history and ecology, as the land holds secrets from ancient Native American civilizations to diverse ecosystems housing rare species. Whether we seek solitude or a vigorous challenge, the trails of Bankhead are great to check out.

Encounter the Wonders of Little River Canyon

At Little River Canyon, adventure beckons with the rush of white water and the serene melodies of nature. Whether we’re navigating rapids on a raft, watching for rare birds overhead, or cycling along the rim of the gorge, every visit is a fresh encounter with the wild. Even the quiet pursuit of horseback riding or fishing calls us to connect with the land.

Uncover the Secrets of Dismals Canyon

Venture into Dismals Canyon and uncover an ethereal world where glowworms turn night-time explorations into a living fairy tale. By day, the canyon is just as enchanting, offering us the chance to walk among boulders and beside waterfalls while surrounded by ancient trees. Designated a National Natural Landmark, this 85-acre preserve cradles the beauty of unspoiled nature. Here, we are mere guests in a land that speaks more of the earth’s timeless wanderings than of man. Whether we’re geology enthusiasts or seeking a peaceful hike, Dismals Canyon has secrets tucked in every nook—secrets it might just share with us if we tread lightly.

Outdoor Activities

• Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge (Decatur, AL) Address: 2700 Refuge Headquarters Road, Decatur, AL 35603
• Tennessee River Adventures (Elkmont, AL) Address: 25537 2nd Street, Elkmont, AL 35620
• Joe Wheeler State Park (Rogersville, AL) Address: 4401 McLean Drive, Rogersville, AL 35652
• Oak Mountain State Park (Pelham, AL) Address: 200 Terrace Drive, Pelham, AL 35124
• Cheaha State Park (Delta, AL) Address: 19644 Hwy 281, Delta, AL 36258

Immerse Yourself in North Alabama’s Culture and History

Step Back in Time at Museums and Historic Places

Immersing ourselves in North Alabama’s museums and historic places is like flipping through the vivid pages of a history book. Each corridor and exhibit allows us to step back in time and witness the narratives that have shaped today’s landscape. From the EarlyWorks Family of Museums, showcasing Southern history in an interactive setting, to the hallowed halls commemorating Helen Keller’s remarkable journey, North Alabama’s past is both preserved and celebrated. Whether it’s marveling at Civil War artifacts or strolling through restored antebellum homes, these institutions are guardians of the region’s rich tapestry of stories, waiting for us to walk in and explore.

Honor Legacies at the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament

Take a moment to honor a significant legacy at the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament, a site founded by the revered Mother Angelica. Here, the hallowed grounds resonate with tranquility and devotion, inviting visitors of all faiths to reflect amid the stunning Romanesque-Gothic architecture. Marvel at the craftsmanship of gold, marble, and cedar that adorns the shrine—a symbol of faith’s enduring beauty. Situated in picturesque farmland and operating as a Franciscan pilgrimage site, a visit here provides a serene escape, allowing us to engage in quiet contemplation or marvel at the artistic and spiritual legacy that thrives within these sacred walls.

Cultural Landmarks

• U.S. Space & Rocket Center (Huntsville, AL) Address: 1 Tranquility Base, Huntsville, AL 35805
• Birmingham Museum of Art (Birmingham, AL) Address: 2000 Reverend Abraham Woods Jr Boulevard, Birmingham, AL 35203
• Birmingham Civil Rights Institute (Birmingham, AL) Address: 520 16th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203
• Alabama Shakespeare Festival (Montgomery, AL) Address: 1 Festival Drive, Montgomery, AL 36117
• International Motorsports Hall of Fame (Talladega, AL) Address: 3366 Speedway Blvd, Lincoln, AL 35096

Additional Unique Experiences

• Ave Maria Grotto (Cullman, AL) Address: 1600 St Bernard Dr, Cullman, AL 35055
• Unclaimed Baggage Center (Scottsboro, AL) Address: 509 W Willow St, Scottsboro, AL 35768
• Topgolf Birmingham (Birmingham, AL) Address: 1111 24th St N, Birmingham, AL 35234
• Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum (Birmingham, AL) Address: 6030 Barber Motorsports Pkwy, Leeds, AL 35094
• Huntsville Escape Rooms (Huntsville, AL) Address: 415 Church St NW #12, Huntsville, AL 35801

FAQs: Your Guide to North Alabama Attractions

What are some must-try dishes in North Alabama?

In North Alabama, your taste buds shouldn’t miss out on the savory delight of white barbecue sauce—a local invention—over perfectly smoked chicken. Also, dig into a slice of tomato pie, where fresh tomatoes and flaky crust form a match made in culinary heaven. The region’s catfish, either fried to a golden crisp or blackened with spices, is a must. And for those with a sweet tooth, the famous Alabama Lane Cake, a bourbon-laced layer cake, is an indulgent Southern tradition you’ll be dreaming about long after the last bite.

What is the weather like seasonally in North Alabama?

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Start Planning

North Alabama offers a diverse range of attractions and activities that cater to every traveler’s interests. From the stunning waterfalls of Bankhead National Forest to the charming local cuisines and museums, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Explore this captivating region and create your own memorable experiences amidst its rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. All this also makes it an amazing destination for weddings! Contact us to learn more about our venue in Rainbow City.