After a one-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the time has finally come. The Druid City Arts Festival, presented by Cadence Bank, is returning tomorrow from 5 – 10 pm and Saturday from 10 am – 5 pm!

 

This 12th annual community event allows guests to explore and shop one-of-a-kind art from over 70 visual artists while enjoying the outdoors on a Tuscaloosa spring day at our lovely Government Plaza! While there, you can enjoy lunch, a snack, or a cold treat from one of your favorite local food trucks, too. Our friends from Buffalo Rock will be there with Pepsi products, too.

 

Showcasing some of Tuscaloosa’s musicians, guests will be able to watch performances from artists including Drum Nation and Alabama Blues Project!  Click here to take a look at the full Stage Schedule, presented by Mercedes-Benz.

 

And, last but not least, one of the great things about this festival is that there are so many engaging activities for adults and children alike. Below we have compiled some of the fun kid-friendly activities that will be available at DCAF this year! We must give a special thanks to our friends at McAbee Construction for their sponsorship of the DCAF Kids Zone.

 

Are you looking for things to do when it’s raining in Tuscaloosa? You’ve come to the right spot!     

1. Tuscaloosa’s Museums

Mildred Westervelt Warner Transportation Museum is one of the great museum options that we have in T-Town. Located at Tuscaloosa’s historic Queen City Park along the Black Warrior River, this museum is filled with knowledge and appreciation of our local and regional history and natural resources through exhibits, museum educational programs, and educational outreach efforts. For those interested in extinct animals, the Alabama Museum of Natural History is a perfect place to visit with its ancient fossils and many other exciting things to discover!  

Did You Know:  The University of Alabama actually oversees five museums in total, including the two mentioned above as well as the Moundville Archeological Park, the Gorgas House Museum, and the Paul W. Bryant Museum.

2.  Art Galleries

We have some incredible and diverse art galleries in town that are definitely worth a visit. The Kentuck Art Center in Northport is an all-in-one museum, gallery, and event location. In the heart of downtown Tuscaloosa lies the Paul R. Jones Gallery, the Dinah Washington Cultural Arts Center, Harrison Galleries, and the Tuscaloosa Art Garage (great for the kiddos) – all great spots to explore on a rainy day.  If you happen to be in town the first Friday of the month, be sure the check out the First Friday Art Walk, featuring these galleries and more!

3. Coffee Shops

What cozier place could there be to hide from a rainy day than a traditional coffee shop? The smell of coffee and pastries in the air, people reading the newspaper, studying or chatting steadily alongside a laid-back playlist…. sounds perfect to us! Tuscaloosa offers many such magical places. There’s so many to select from, you can’t go wrong.  Just to get you started, check Turbo Coffee,  Monarch Espresso Bar, Just Love Coffee, Heritage House Coffee & Tea, or Strange Brew Coffeehouse.

4. Brewery

Local breweries in Tuscaloosa are the perfect place to spend a gray afternoon among friends and one of America’s favorite drinks: Beer. Druid City Brewing Company, Black Warrior Brewing Company, and Loosa offer great brews and relaxed space to lean back and enjoy an ice-cold one on this dreary day. Looking for a glass of wine?  Check out The Wine Market.  How about a cocktail?  Visit Session Cocktails.

5. Putt Putt Golf, Bowling, Arcade and more

Shindig Family Entertainment Center, Bowlero, and Crux Climbing are all excellent options for rainy days. This venues offer activities such as bowling, laser tag, arcade games, mini-golf, climbing, and a restaurant with a lounge! Forget about your worries and completely immerse yourself in all of the fun that these awesome places have to offer! Coming late 2023 – PopStroke! Soon you’ll be able to eat, drink, and putt next door to The University of Alabama Campus.

6. Tour Historic Homes

Historic Tuscaloosa works hard to preserve several historic homes located around Downtown Tuscaloosa.  Tuesday through Saturday, guests can enjoy free tours of The Old Tavern, the Battle-Friedman House, and the Jemison-Van de Graaff Mansion.  Additionally, people can tour the Murphy-Collins House and the McGuire-Strickland House by appointment and for special occasions.

Being on the outside isn’t always such a terrible thing, especially in a beautiful city like Tuscaloosa or Northport. If you’re searching for places to eat or drink outside in Tuscaloosa, you’ve come to the right spot!  When you’re spending time with loved ones, eating your favorite snacks, and grabbing a drink or two as you enjoy the wonderful weather, it doesn’t get much better than this.

Check out this list of some favorite patios to immerse yourself in the outdoors with food and drink close at hand. 

Loosa Brews – Loosa’s porch game has been stepped up since they opened. It has tons of table and bar style seating. It’s partly shaded, but fully equipped to be your next favorite hangout joint! With 63 beers on tap there’s a beer and a chair for everyone there!

Taco Mama – Taco Mama’s outdoor seating faces out onto University drive so whether you’re there to sunset watch or people watch, there’s a sitting activity for every personality! Not only that, but they serve beer and margaritas. So if you’re not huge on the beer scene, you’ve still got a place on their porch!

R & R Cigars – This particular porch is highly slept on because not many people take advantage of this incredible honey hole! R & R is a remodeled Victorian home with a huge front porch and plenty of comfortable seating to drink a beer, smoke a cigar, and watch your favorite game on tv.

Billy’s Sports Grill Northport – Located in the heart of historic downtown Northport, Billy’s offers great wings, their famous chicken sandwich, burgers, salads, and more! You can enjoy a comfortable and family-friendly atmosphere with the ultimate viewing of your favorite sports.  The patio seating is excellent.

Innisfree – Innisfree’s porch is another phenomenal place to kick back and drink a cold one. They have plenty of seating and a whole slew of TVs. With a wide selection of drinks, they have a little something for the whole crew!

And just a few more – because you can’t ever have too many options!  Check out Alcove International Tavern, The Houndstooth, Glory Bound Gyro Co., Heat Pizza, Mellow Mushroom, and the many bars and restaurants located within Temerson Square such as Sage Juice Bar & Speakeasy or Avenue Pub.

Things are buzzing here in Tuscaloosa! Spring has sprung, the flowers are blooming, and the events are poppin’! We have an eclectic lineup for this weekend so follow along so you can be sure to hit the hot spots!

The Buzz About Bees Exhibit
A new exhibit is flying to the Alabama Museum of Natural History! The Buzz about Bees is a collaborative exhibit with the Alabama Museum of Natural History, the West Alabama Beekeepers Association, and the UA Bee Club. The exhibit focuses on the honey bee and features a live beehive that gives visitors an inside look at the honey bees’ honey production and social structure. Head over to view the exhibit that opens Thursday, April 22nd, to get a chance to learn about these incredible creatures!

Stand Up Comedy at Half Shell
Stand Up Tuscaloosa is hosting their very first Comedy in a Half Shell show this Friday, April 23rd starting at 7:30 pm. Acts feature comic “Casio” Matt Mitchell from NBC’s Last Comic Standing, Jay Leno, MTV, and Rick and Bubba as “Casio Kid”. Birmingham’s Peter Davenport who is a cohost of the Goulash Podcast with Chris Ivey will also perform!

Step Into The Rainforest at CHOM
Step into the rainforest this Saturday, April 24th at the Children’s Hands-On Museum! You and your little one can learn how to make a terrarium, learn about venus fly traps, and rain forest animals! All activities are included in admission. For more information on location and hours, visit its website here.

A Rockin’ Radio Show
Love radio rock hits? Like a capella harmony? Then this is the event for you! The hits brought to you in a unique format, live on stage this Saturday, April 24th! The Dixie district chorus champions, present rock radio hits in 4 part harmony with a presentation that will remind you of the great days of radio. To top that off, the classic Bama Theatre is the backdrop for this one-time-only event. Get your tickets fast as seating is limited. You won’t want to miss this!

Piccolo Concert with Kim Scott
Here’s another live concert to get excited about! Amazing piccolo soloist Kim Scott will be attending her live concert this Sunday, April 25th, for a sure-to-be fantastic performance! She is so excited to have the chance to feel the energy of a crowd, and is hoping to see you at Government Plaza from 4 pm! Don’t forget this family-friendly event is also FREE to the public!

Sometimes you want to take a dip outside of your normal community pool that is, oftentimes than not, swarmed with others who have the same “beat the heat” ideas like you! Tuscaloosa and the surrounding area are home to many secret and not-so-secret swimming spots that will make you feel like you’ve escaped the kiddie pool area and entered an oasis in your own backyard! Here are 8 of the best swimming spots in the Tuscaloosa area:
  1. Hurricane Creek 
Hurricane Creek Park located on Highway 216 is a local favorite for cooling down in Tuscaloosa’s scorching sun. Hurricane Creek Park is open to the public from dawn to dusk. This spot is a wonderful place to explore native plants and aquatic wildlife, or spend time enjoying nature and soaking up the sun with friends and family! Visitors are encouraged to wear rubber-soled shoes so that they will not slip on the shale which exists along part of the stream. The water is usually deep enough to do some serious swimming if you’re up for it! If not, there is a shallow, flat end to sit, relax, and unwind!
  1. The Cliffs at Lake Nicol
Beyond the Lake Nicol Spillway near North River lies The Cliffs at Lake Nicol. This lake is relatively small, but packs a big punch when it comes to fun in the sun and aquatic activities! While its swimming holes are a crowd-pleaser, Lake Nicol is also known as a great beginner’s spot for those who want to canoe. Beware, this location is called “The Cliffs” for a reason, but do not get too caught up in the lure of thrilling excitement. There is a $500 fine for those who take their chances and jump off of Lake Nicol’s cliffs. Plus, this is extremely unsafe, so you’re better off wading in the waters with the rest of the smarty-pants!
  1. Payne Lake
Payne Lake is one of the lesser-known isolated gems of Tuscaloosa. Located off County Road 71, Payne Lake offers a perfect shallow swimming spot that is perfect for water activities and picnicking. While this location is one of the few that is a little bit of a drive from the heart of Tuscaloosa, escaping the city can come with its perks! Tucked conveniently within the Talledega National Forest, Payne Lake is the picture-perfect campground scene with its tranquil waters, boating, and fishing activities. We promise this swimming spot is worth the drive! Wake up early to pack a lunch and head on out to make a full day out of Payne Lake!
  1. Lake Lurleen State Park
Lake Lurleen is a Tuscaloosa icon for its hiking trails and fishing spots, but it also is home to a perfect sandy lakefront beach! Beat the heat when you head over to its waterfront to have a relaxing day on the “beach”! Lake Lurleen’s swimming spots are open from 7 am to 9 pm every day so you can be ready for the heatwave all day! Admission to the state park is $3 per adult/$1 for children and seniors (children under age 6 admitted free) Lake Lurleen will be closed until Summer of 2025 for renovations!
  1. Lake Harris
Lake Harris has been a famous swimming spot for University of Alabama students for decades, and for a great reason! Hosting high cliffs, two dams, hiking trails, a beach, and lots of water to swim, you’ll never get bored of this Tuscaloosa hotspot! Lake Harris is a tranquil place to relax, swim with friends, and enjoy a sunset picnic. The swimming area is open one hour prior to sunrise and an hour after sunset. Make the most out of your sweltering day with a little swimming with friends!
  1. Lake Tuscaloosa
By now, we all know that Lake Tuscaloosa is a hotbed for fun outdoor activities! Surrounded by hills and southern pines, Lake Tuscaloosa is a scenic spot to lay out and sunbathe or relax on a boat with friends and family. While this lake is popular with boats and watercraft, that doesn’t mean you still can’t enjoy the water on your own! Or if you are feeling adventurous, and have your boating license, you can rent a pontoon boat of your own to take on the open waters! Pier 43 on Lake Tuscaloosa has various boats to choose from to make sure you have the best fit for your sun-filled day!
  1. The Harrison Taylor Splash Pad
While the Harrison Taylor Splash Pad is not a nature-filled natural swimming hole, it is still an outdoor aquatic adventure for your little ones! The splash pad offers many water devices to keep your kids cool and entertained while the heat is high! Staying out of the sun is also a convenience thanks to the many shaded pavilions surrounding the Harrison Taylor Splash Pad. The park is open from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m six days a week and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays. Grab a cooler and head on over!
  1. UA Arboretum
We can’t forget our furry friends when the heat starts to rise! Puppies deserve to cool off too and the University of Alabama Arboretum is the perfect spot for you and your pup to take a walk and cool off! Before Tuscaloosa’s official dog park opened, UA’s Arboretum served the area’s residents looking to burn off some extra energy. The pond, located a short walk from the entrance, still serves as an unofficial dog park of sorts, and you can often find several dogs and their owners staying cool in the water and playing fetch by the pond’s side!

1. The River Walk

Disguised behind all of the commotions of Tuscaloosa lies the scenic River Walk. The 4.5 miles of path that runs directly next to the Black Warrior River serves as an ideal spot for picnics, dog walks, or leisurely strolls. Get out of the house, grab a friend, and go enjoy the view!

 

2. Dreamland BBQ

If you are from Tuscaloosa, or just Alabama itself, you know about this famous spot. Founded in 1958 by “Big Daddy” John Bishop, Dreamland has been a staple in Tuscaloosa’s food scene, serving communities across the state and even the country. You can still visit the original Dreamland location at 5525 15th Avenue East in Tuscaloosa. Pro Tip: Get the banana pudding.

 

3. Civil Rights Trail

To understand the rich history of Tuscaloosa’s civil rights history, it is crucial to examine the Civil Rights Trail. Many Alabamians are aware of the civil rights history that surrounds our state, but many might not be aware of the important events that took place in Tuscaloosa. The trail has 18 stops that tell of the extraordinary action that shaped this town forever. Visit https://civilrightstuscaloosa.org/trail/ to print your trail brochure. 

 

4. Downtown

Downtown Tuscaloosa has maintained its southern charm over the many years of change. Find a stylish outfit at The Pants Store, indulge in a nice dinner at Depalma’s, or sip on a craft cocktail at Sessions Bar. With dozens of businesses, new and old, its streets offer exciting experiences for everyone!

 

5.  Lake Tuscaloosa

Right smack in the middle of Tuscaloosa you can fish, boat, or lie out with your friends at gorgeous Lake Tuscaloosa. This is the perfect spot for a quick, relaxing day trip with your friends or family. With 117 miles of shoreline, you sure won’t run out of room to play!

 

6. Crimson Tide Football

Alabama football fans have the honor of being some of the loudest, rowdiest fans in all of college football. To be honest, it’s hard to bite your tongue when your team has won 18 National Championships AND you have a larger stadium than Auburn. 

 

7. The Strip

The Strip. Home to Quick Grill, the Yellow Hammer, and of course, Rounders. College kids love it, locals- well, probably don’t hate it too much. This is truly the place to go if you want that thrilling nightlife experience with a hint of college kid energy. Experience the electric energy on the strip that adds such an exciting element to Tuscaloosa!

 

8. Nicks in the Sticks

Nothing beats family-owned cooking- especially family-owned SOUTHERN cooking. Nicks in the Sticks has been serving the Tuscaloosa community since 1953 and has gone down in history ever since. Even though the venue is quite small, they dish up big flavors. If you have the chance to go, don’t forget to put a dollar bill on the ceiling! 

 

9. Breweries

What’s a good ole southern town without a good taproom? Tuscaloosa is home to 3 craft breweries: Loosa Brews, Druid City Brewing Company, and Black Warrior Brewing Company. New to the Tuscaloosa beer scene is The Grocery Brewpub that is set to open in the next few months! 

 

10. The Immense History

While this one post could be a novel, T-Town has been a historical hotspot for centuries! Once the state capital in 1825, Tuscaloosa has been the home to the Creek Indian tribe and the site of a Civil War standoff. Grab a friend and discover the antiquity of Tuscaloosa throughout the many museums and tours offered throughout the town.

 

11.  Kentuck Art Festival

Nothing screams fall in Tuscaloosa like changing leaves, football, and seasonal festivals. For 49 years, the Kentuck Art Center has been the epicenter of creativity for this community. The Kentuck Festival is filled with great music and art pieces from over 270 inspired creatives. While 2020 put a damper on the previous year’s fun, we are hopeful for the new year and the continuation of the spirit of Kentuck! 

 

12.  Tuscaloosa Farmers Market

Shop local, eat local, enjoy local. Supporting the Tuscaloosa community has never been easier thanks to the farmers market’s weekly Saturday appearance! Get your weekend fix of artisan bread, farm-fresh vegetables, and fabulous finds from your local small business owners at the Tuscaloosa Farmers Market- but remember to wear your mask!

 

13.  The People

A deadly virus and a couple of tornados. It will take more than that to rock this town to its core! This community has endured so many hardships throughout the years. Yet still, we emerge stronger than ever and proud of the community we have built together! I could think of 1,000,000 reasons why I love Tuscaloosa, but 15 will have to do justice for now!

  1. Any of Tuscaloosa’s Museums

Mildred Westervelt Warner Transportation Museum is one of the great museum options that we have in town. Located at Tuscaloosa’s historic Queen City Park along the Black Warrior River, this museum is filled with knowledge and appreciation of our local and regional history and natural resources through exhibits, museum educational programs, and educational outreach efforts. For the ones who are rather interested in extinct models, the Alabama Museum of Natural History is a perfect place to visit with its ancient fossils and many other exciting things to discover!

  1. Art Galleries

We have some incredible and diverse art galleries in town that are definitely worth a visit. The Kentuck Art Center in Northport is an all-in-one museum, gallery and event location that is now featuring Good Trouble: Civil Rights Past and Present. In the heart of downtown Tuscaloosa lies another local gem: Paul R. Jones Gallery. Currently the exhibition It’s Like That: Selections from the Collection of Rebecca and Jack Drake is on display. Works for this exhibition were selected by independent curator Paul Barrett!

  1. Coffee Shops

What cozier place could there be to hide from a rainy day than a traditional coffee shop? The smell of coffee and pastries in the air, people reading the newspaper, studying or chatting steadily alongside a laid-back playlist…. sounds perfect to us! Tuscaloosa offers many such magical places. For example, the local chain Heritage House,  Monarch Espresso Bar downtown, or the new kid on the block  Just Love Coffee. Choose one and enjoy!

  1. Brewery

Local breweries in Tuscaloosa are the perfect place to spend a gray afternoon among friends and one of America’s favorite drinks: Beer. Druid City Brewing Company, Black Warrior Brewing Company, and Loosa offer great brews and relaxed space to lean back and enjoy an ice-cold one on this dreary day. These local treasures have the coolest merchandise to brighten up your wardrobe today!

  1. Shindig

Shindig Family Entertainment Center is another excellent option for rainy days like today. This is your one-stop entertainment center with bowling, laser tag, arcade games, mini-golf, and a restaurant with a lounge! Forget about your worries and completely immerse yourself in all of the family fun that this awesome place has to offer!

The weather is a bit dreary in Tuscaloosa, but that doesn’t mean your week has to be! While this city does have plenty of outdoor fun for you and your family, let’s not forget the great indoors! Here are a couple of great ways to dodge the rain and have a great time doing it.

 

  1. Axe Throwing
Looking to awake the sleeping lumberjack within? Civil Axe Throwing can help you do just that! This thrilling activity is super simple to learn, and everything has been designed with your fun and safety in mind. Axe throwing is a perfect way to blow off some steam and have fun with some friendly competition with friends and family! Not sure if this is for you? Think of this activity as throwing a dart, except you might need two hands! Walk-ins are always welcome but you can save your spot ahead of time by visiting Civil Axe’s website.
  1. Catch a Movie
Have we forgotten about movie theaters in 2021? The Golden Globe Awards were last month and there were some hot movies nominated! We have been inside for much of the last year, most likely binging every Netflix movie known to man. CMX Cinemas Hollywood 16 Theater (formerly Cobb Theater) is open and showing new movies daily! Sanitation precautions are in place and masks are required upon entry until you seat yourself. We all have a movie junkie personality, and get real- we missed that movie theater popcorn! 
  1. Educate Yourself!

The museum scene in Tuscaloosa is evergrowing. While it’s rainy outside, you can visit exhibits from art to natural history! The Alabama Museum of Natural History has shown its beauty through exhibitions, collections, and quality programs of teaching, research, and service for over 150 years. The Dinah Washington Cultural Arts Center has served as a hub for the arts in Tuscaloosa. You can currently observe the newest exhibition, “Eye Music” by Elizabeth Rand Photography. New exhibitions are opening every month so there is no absence of great talent to enjoy!

  1. Coffee Shops
Something about rainy weather makes us want to curl up somewhere cozy with a warm drink. Thankfully, Tuscaloosa is home to many homey coffee shops! Grab yourself a cup of your favorite coffee or tea and listen to a podcast or even catch up on some overdue work! Five Java, Heritage House, and Just Love Coffee Cafe all offer free wifi and tons of indoor and outdoor seating so you can bring a friend along! Have a cup, or two, and let this weather pass by! (There are many other coffee shops in our area, so tag us on one of your favorites!)
  1. Breweries
Maybe rainy weather makes you want to get your buzz on. The beer scene in Tuscaloosa is definitely on full blast 24/7! Black Warrior Brewing Company, Loosa Brews, and Druid City Brewing Company allow you to get an early start on your happy hour while sheltering from the rain. The best beer we drink is the ones with friends, so get your crew and get on! Loosa also has an arcade in the backroom so don’t be shy with your quarters!



If you partake in any of these activities this week, tag us on Instagram, @visittuscaloosa! 
Easing back into normalcy means an increase in new businesses opening! With Tuscaloosa’s vibrant culture and its positive go-getter inhabitants, it’s no wonder why new businesses want to set up shop in this growing community! New locations are opening almost monthly, so let’s take a look at a few highly noted, tasty options: 

 

Urban Bar and Kitchen
Ever wondered what would happen if minimalist boho met industrial design? Well, Urban Bar and Kitchen can show you exactly that while dishing up some of the tastiest new treats in town! Located in Tuscaloosa’s historic downtown district – UBK is a cultural epicenter showcasing unique roots, authenticity, & bold flavors. Looking for a place to enjoy social hour, hand-crafted cocktails, and artfully curated playlists? Look no further! Head to UBK now at 2321 University Blvd to check it out!

 

PJ’s Coffee
Tuscaloosa sure loves its java and newcomer, PJ’s coffee, is here to show T-town what it’s got! PJ’s Coffee utilizes only the top 1% of specialty Arabica beans, sourcing 14 origin coffees from Ethiopia to Honduras, Columbia to Nicaragua- ensuring the best beans for its customers! The new location just opened its doors to the public and is ready to showcase its huge array of beverages! Want to visit? Head over to 1201 University Blvd to give it a try. 

 

Fuku Ramen 
What do soup and noodles have in common? They’re both good for the soul! Fuku Ramen knows exactly how to dish up traditional Japanese-style ramen. Opening earlier this year, Fuku Ramen hosts a variety of different ramen, rice dishes, and bubble teas that will be sure to make your taste buds dance! Located in the Midtown Shopping Center, Fuku is a perfect lunch or dinner spot with your friends. Check it out now and tell us what you think!

 

Grocery Brewpub
The Grocery Brewpub is Birmingham’s “one-stop brew shop” but will soon be a hit in Tuscaloosa too! With 84 rotating craft beer taps, premium wines, house-made cocktails, and delicious southern street-style food, The Grocery Brewpub has enough to satisfy even the pickiest beer connoisseur. Plus, did we mention this brewery is pet-friendly! That’s right, you can enjoy an ice-cold one with your pup while winding down from a long day’s work! The Tuscaloosa location is expected to have its grand opening at the end of March so mark your calendars!

 

Walk-On’s
Months after rumors began, Baton Rouge’s Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux officially announced it will be landing a franchise in Tuscaloosa! The Walk-On’s will be an 8,000-foot-square restaurant at 675 Skyland Blvd., in the old Kmart lot. What makes Walk-On’s special is its authentic, mouthwatering Louisiana cuisine prepared fresh from scratch. Set to open in the next couple of months, Walk-On’s will surely be a hit in the Tuscaloosa bar and bistro scene!

 

Looking for a new place to visit with your friends and family? Give some of the options above a try and let us know what you think!
Love is in the air! It’s almost Valentine’s Day- fresh flower deliveries, a fun night on the town, or maybe just a Netflix night in. Either way, we have some fun ideas for you to make sure you get the final rose this Valentine’s Day!

For the Foodies

Do you show love through food? Or maybe, you just love eating food. Well, do we have the perfect spots for you and your sweetheart to hit up this weekend! Everything from gourmet pasta to wine tasting, we got you covered! 

For the Adventurers

Are you the type of couple that can’t stand to be stuck inside? Maybe romantic candlelight dinners aren’t for you- and that’s perfectly okay! It’s always exciting to get outdoors to enjoy nature but what better way to do that than with the one you care for. And on Valentine’s Day nonetheless! Here’s what we’ve got in mind for you:

For the Singles

If you’re anything like me, you might be riding solo this Valentine’s Day. *Cue sad violin music* Hey, it’s all good! Pull the selfish card, make yourself your favorite meal, and pop on a little Netflix because this day is all about you! And let’s be honest, who loves you more than you? Here are some Valentine’s Day ideas that scream “I Am Single and I Love It”:
Whether you’re taking one for the team this year or are feeling lovey-dovey with your partner, this Valentine’s Day has opportunities for all kinds of enthusiasts. Don’t be shy! Message us on Facebook or Instagram to share with us how you spent your romantic weekend!
Written By: Olivia Nonnengard
This weekend in Tuscaloosa is filled packed with all kinds of entertaining, safe options for event life. While edging back into everyday life might not be an option for everyone, our city has options that are enjoyable for all! From live music to virtual plays, there is so much to take in this time of year. Check out some events that we found to add a little bit of spice to your weekend! 
Live Music 
Concerts are back but are looking a little different this year! Catch Alabama native Charlie Wilson this Thursday, Jan. 28th, at The Lookout Rooftop at Hotel Indigo. Join for happy hour for fun drink specials before catching the show! Remember- The Lookout Rooftop is smoke-free and pet friendly so your furry friend can groove out with you!
Country music artist, Frank Foster, is playing live at Druid City Music Hall this Friday, Jan. 29th. Live music is slowly creeping back into the normal scene here in Tuscaloosa but we should state that this show is being held at a limited capacity. Nevertheless, grab a buddy, mask up, and enjoy the show!  For more information regarding the show and COVID procedures, you can visit Druid City Music Hall’s website here. 
Virtual Season at Theatre Tuscaloosa
Tired of watching the same movies on replay? Thanks to Theatre Tuscaloosa, you can catch a recording of some of the theaters greatest hits in the comfort of your own home! Friday, Jan. 29th, is the last day you can watch the theater’s virtual performance of You Can’t Take it With You- a madcap comedy about two very different families connected through an unlikely marriage. Virtual tickets can be purchased on Theater Tuscaloosa’s website. 
UA Volleyball 
The University of Alabama’s volleyball team takes on the South Carolina Gamecocks this Friday and Saturday, Jan. 29th-30th, at home. Want to see the Tide roll in person while maintaining social distance measures? Tickets will be available in the North lobby of Foster auditorium 1.5 hours prior to the start of the match. For online ticket sales and more information regarding the match, you can visit Alabama volleyball’s website. 
Puzzle Master at CHOM
The Children’s Hands-On Museum is hosting a Puzzle Master event Saturday, Jan. 30th. Puzzle-solving and brain teasers are a great way to keep your little ones entertained while creating family fun memories! With a mission of a dynamic learning experience that stimulates curiosity and creativity, CHOM is a perfect weekend day trip for all ages!  
There is one thing we all miss from years past and that is attending events with our friends and family. As we slowly inch into the New Year, Tuscaloosa is offering a variety of different experiences that are exciting for all ages! Let’s take a look at what’s coming up this weekend.
Iron Bowl 2.0
It doesn’t get much better than another Crimson Tide versus Auburn Tigers game down-home in Tuscaloosa. The University of Alabama’s gymnastics team faces Auburn at 7:30 p.m. this Friday, Jan. 22, at the Coleman Coliseum. Want to see the Tide roll in person while maintaining social distance measures? Tickets will be available in the lobby 1.5 hours prior to the start of the meet. For those who can’t attend or are taking health precautions, be sure to grab your favorite snack and tune into the SEC Network to watch the Tide turn! 
You still can’t get enough Tide action? Good news- The University’s women’s basketball team will challenge the Auburn Tigers this Sunday, Jan. 24. The start time is scheduled for 1 p.m. CST. Those who wish to cheer on the Tide, face mask-clad, can purchase tickets in the Coleman Coliseum lobby prior to the start of the game. Of course, if in-person events are not yet in your comfort zone, you can always show your support from home and tune in to ESPNU from your couch!
Tuscaloosa Farmers Market
Get your weekend fix of artisan bread, farm-fresh vegetables, and fabulous finds from your local small business owners at this weekend’s farmers market. The Tuscaloosa Farmers Market takes place this Saturday, Jan. 23, from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m. Don’t feel like leaving the warmth of your vehicle but want to still indulge in uniquely local goods? Curbside delivery is an option for a limited time. Remember, you can’t buy happiness but you can buy local! 
Dino-Mite at CHOM
Lions, Tigers, and Dinosaurs? Oh My! Head over to The Children’s Hands-On Museum to learn about one of the world’s most fascinating wonders- dinosaurs! Hatching your own dino egg and digging for fossils is a great way to promote education in your little one while also creating fun memories with your family. With a mission of a dynamic learning experience that stimulates curiosity and creativity, CHOM is a perfect weekend day trip for all ages!