Congrats to all of The University of Alabama’s 2020 graduates! You deserve to relax, relish, and reminisce in one of the most remarkable college football towns in the nation. You might think it stops there, but Tuscaloosa goes far beyond football. Thanks to excellent lodging, exceptional eats, and endless local gems, T-Town offers unforgettable experiences whether you roll with or away from the tide. Read on for tips to get the most out of your weekend getaway in the Druid City.

Whether you are attempting a last-minute road trip or scheming a self-indulging staycation in the near future, you’re in luck. Some of our city’s incredible hotels have availability for the next few days! For a traditionally southern experience, check out Bama Bed & Breakfast, located a mere two blocks from Bryant-Denny Stadium. Providing five gorgeous rooms to choose from, hot tub access, and complimentary breakfast + basket of snacks, this place goes above and beyond to accommodate for their guests!  If Tuscaloosa’s fantastic local shopping and dining is calling your name, check out Embassy Suites,  Home2 Suites, or Hotel Indigo. All of these highly-rated hotels are a short walk to the heart of downtown T-Town, home to many iconic places that give this city personality. Haven’t quite found what you’re looking for? There are more amazing local hotels with availability for this weekend!

Gather with family, friends, and fellow graduates to celebrate this chapter in life with some spectacular dining options, all fresh and all local! Enjoy a graduation sushi platter special at Chuck’s Fish, or venture down the street for a taste of Gulf Coast seafood with a New Orleans flare at Half Shell Oyster House. Another elegant option that encompasses the vibrant life of this city is River. Have your cake and eat it too at this restaurant with dinner and a view of the Black Warrior River. And of course, one can never go wrong with a dinner at DePalma’s to enjoy some delicious homemade bread and pasta made fresh to order.

What is a weekend getaway without souvenirs? For those die-hard Bama fans, you can stock up on some of the coolest Alabama gear at local stores like Bama Stuff and JCG Apparel. Be sure to look out for brand new alumni clothing! Not a Bama fan? Not a problem. Tuscaloosa is home to a variety of local favorites that are sure to impress guests and locals alike. If you enjoy shopping at unique boutiques you are in the right place. Effie’s Inc. is nestled in the historic district downtown and is known for its outstanding customer service. Whether you are perfecting a special occasion outfit or just enhancing your wardrobe, Effie’s carries the latest trends for a variety of lifestyles and ages. It also doesn’t hurt that the entire website is 50% off (excluding new arrivals). Another hidden treasure in town is Pause Boutique. Enjoy endless jewelry, clothing, shoes, accessories, and more at this special local shop! For men’s clothing, swing by University Blvd. and check out Pants Store and The Locker Room! Both stores provide stellar customer service and a vast selection of fashionable products that can appeal to everyone.

What is a quick weekend trip for some is a spectacular staycation for others. Regardless, Tuscaloosa can’t wait to welcome you all with open arms (abiding by social distancing guidelines, of course). We hope this helps enhance your experience in our beloved city!

Evangeline’s hit the local restaurant scene by storm, and for good reason! The restaurant is considered to be one of the city’s premier fine dining establishments. Best of all, Tuscaloosa Tourism and Sports is giving a $50 Evangeline’s gift card to one lucky winner next week on Instagram or Facebook! Join us as we show you everything that Evangeline’s has to offer.

Evangeline’s has a wide selection of dinner options that are sure to satisfy any visitor. The restaurant offers one of the best filet mignons in Tuscaloosa. Served with a garlic-infused potato puree, sautéed broccolini, and jumbo lump crab mornay sauce, the dish is both sophisticated and delicious. If you’re in the mood for lighter fare, try the summer peach salad. A bed of romaine and organic mixed greens is topped with peaches, strawberries, blueberries, candied pecans, goat cheese, and a house-made peach and poppy seed dressing to create this delightful and summery salad. Craving seafood? Evangeline’s has that too! Their phenomenal crab cakes are a must, so much so that al.com included them in 100 dishes to eat in Alabama before you die. If you’re looking for a nice dinner in Tuscaloosa, Evangeline’s is one of the perfect places in town!

Evangeline’s also serves dessert to ensure that you finish your meal on a sweet note. There are a few classic options on the menu, including chocolate cake and peanut butter pie, but Evangeline’s offers so much more than classic treats! Lemon sorbet is the perfect option for those looking for something to complement the Tuscaloosa summer heat. There are even a couple of cheesecake options! Try blueberry cheesecake to get that summer feeling that accompanies fresh berries, or choose the praline pecan cheesecake for an irresistibly sweet crunch. No matter what you choose, rest easy knowing that each option is fresh and delicious.

There’s a lot that goes into making Evangeline’s the pinnacle of high class, including its atmosphere and high-quality ingredients. White tablecloths paired with a black ceiling emanate big-city sophistication, while the shot glass votives that sit on each table bring back the warmth that’s expected in southern towns like Tuscaloosa. Make sure you dress up to match that comfortable classiness, whether that means your Sunday best or your finest eveningwear. Keeping with the high-quality vibe, Evangeline’s also uses local produce in all of their dishes. Their fresh fruits and veggies are sourced from Katie Farms in Coker, Alabama. The atmosphere and high-quality dishes at Evangeline’s combine to make something totally unique, making the restaurant a must-visit!

 

Out and About

Grand Slam Baseball Tournament: If you’re in the mood to enjoy America’s favorite pastime, look no further than the 2020 Grand Slam Baseball Tournament being held right here in Tuscaloosa! The 7U & 8U division is Saturday only, while the 9U to 12U division is a two-day tournament. Masks must be worn at the tournament, and social distancing rules will be enforced.

Tuscaloosa County Preservation Society Virtual Tours: If you aren’t comfortable leaving the house, there are plenty of entertaining things to do virtually from the comfort of your home! Tuscaloosa has quite a few historic buildings, and it’s easy to see them all with the Tuscaloosa County Preservation Society’s virtual tours! See the Battle-Friedman House, the Jemison-Van de Graaff Mansion, or The Old Tavern from the comfort of your home this weekend.

Cardinal Park: Cardinal Park is located a short drive from the heart of Tuscaloosa along Airport Road. The park offers grills and a playground for the kids to enjoy, and if you’re lucky, you may see planes or helicopters take off from the local airport! Visitors report that the park is clean and safe, so stop by this weekend and enjoy everything that Cardinal Park has to offer!

Eat and Enjoy                                                    

Thomas Rib Shack: Thomas Rib Shack is known for serving some of the best soul food in Tuscaloosa! The restaurant serves hearty and healthy southern dishes, including Southern favorites like fried chicken, barbeque pork, and ribs. Thomas Rib Shack is known for its reasonable prices, phenomenal service, and delicious food. Stop in and grab a plate, or order take out if you’re looking to stay in this weekend!

The Brown Bag: If you’re looking for home-style cooking, The Brown Bag is the place to be! With catfish, barbeque, a variety of vegetable side dishes, and an assortment of desserts on the menu, you’re sure to find something to enjoy. Customers have sung their praises for The Brown Bag online, so be sure to stop in or place a to-go order this weekend to see what all the fuss is about!

Broadway Pizzeria: One of Tuscaloosa’s most iconic local pizza spots is Broadway Pizzeria. The restaurant was started by two best friends and has been serving wood-fired pizzas, hoagies, calzones, wings, and pasta to the Tuscaloosa community since 2002. Broadway Pizzeria is open for both dine-in and takeout, so place an order this weekend and enjoy your pizza wherever you’d like!

Sweet Treats

Mary’s Cakes and Pastries: Mary’s Cakes and Pastries is a specialty bakery that bakes unique cakes for weddings, birthdays, showers, and other celebrations. Mary’s Cakes also offers cookies, pastries, beverages, and a daily $5 lunch special. Most of their cakes are made to order, but there are some available for last-minute celebrations or when you just want cake. Order curbside pickup from Mary’s Cakes and Pastries in downtown Northport this weekend!

Steel City Pops: There’s nothing better than cooling off with a popsicle on a hot summer day! Steel City Pops specializes in making gourmet popsicles out of high-quality ingredients. Their small-batch recipes include three different kinds of pops: cookie, creamy, and fruity. Stop by the shop located on University Boulevard in downtown Tuscaloosa this weekend and pick up a gourmet treat!

Insomnia Cookies: Insomnia Cookies is a favorite of college students and local sweet friends alike. They specialize in delivering warm, delicious cookies right to the doors of individuals and companies alike. Their offerings include chocolate chunk, double chocolate mint, snickerdoodle, and so much more. And don’t worry, they’re open until 3 a.m. in case that late-night craving strikes! Insomnia Cookies is located on The Strip, but delivery is also available.

It’s safe to say that Tuscaloosa is a big city, and like any busy area, there are so many unique areas that make it special. With so many different sides to explore, we wanted to take you on a virtual tour and highlight everything that this city has to offer. Join us as we guide you through Tuscaloosa and show you what makes our city the One and Only!

 

Downtown

 

Downtown Tuscaloosa is the perfect area if you’re looking to shop, eat, or just hang out! With a variety of different local businesses to explore, the area is a hub for entertainment.

Shop: The Pants Store is one of the best downtown destinations for men’s and women’s clothing, shoes, and accessories. With name brands like Carhartt, Steve Madden, Quay, Yeti, and more, you’re sure to find something stylish at an affordable price. Find the Pants Store on University Boulevard and get shopping!

Eat: Located on Greensboro Avenue, Central Mesa is the downtown destination for Mexican food with a unique twist. Their dishes include hot chicken tacos and spinach and mushroom quesadillas, but more traditional salads and sandwiches are also on the menu. Central Mesa also has a wide selection of beverages, including specialty cocktails and happy hour specials.

Hang out: If you’re looking for a spot to grab a drink and relax, look no further than Tavern 1831! Situated just off of University Boulevard behind Depalma’s, Tavern 1831 offers a variety of craft beer, mixed drinks, seltzers, and specialty shots. There’s never a cover charge, so feel free to stop in and cool off with one of their daily happy hour specials!

 

By the River

 

The Black Warrior River is one of Tuscaloosa’s most scenic locations. Whether you’re looking to get active or simply visiting for the beautiful views, this local favorite has something to satisfy everyone.

Eat: River is one of Tuscaloosa’s best fine-dining establishments. Located on the banks of the Black Warrior River off of Jack Warner Parkway, River serves steaks, seafood, salads, and more. They also offer deals on wine, draft beers, and specialty cocktails during happy hour. If you’re looking to enjoy fine dining with beautiful riverfront views, River is the perfect spot!

Shop: If you’re looking for the latest in women’s fashion, stop by Market House Boutique! With an array of women’s clothing, shoes, and accessories, you’re sure to find something for your next night in or out. Market House Boutique offers more than just clothes; pick up something for your home while you’re there!

Hang out: The Riverwalk is the perfect place to spend a summer evening in Tuscaloosa! Located off of Jack Warner Parkway, The Riverwalk is a paved walking trail that spans over 4.5 miles of the southern bank of the Black Warrior River. Walk along the path, take a jog, or sit on a bench and take in the spectacular views!

 

Off the Beaten Path

 

Being in the city is great, but there are just as many places to explore that are only a short drive from the main part of Tuscaloosa!

Eat: Nick’s in the Sticks has been family owned and operated since 1953, and it’s fair to say that this local favorite is a hidden gem. Nick’s in the Sticks is best known for their delicious steaks, giant onion rings, and their famous drink, The Nicodemus. Visitors love the restaurant’s atmosphere and high-quality service. Don’t forget to bring a dollar to sign and add to the collection on the restaurant’s ceiling!

Hang out: Tuscaloosa has tons of parks that are situated on the outskirts of town. Hurricane Creek Park is one of these! Located off of Old Birmingham Highway, this spot is a local favorite for outdoor activities such as swimming and hiking. If you’re feeling bold, try kayaking down the creek, or feel free to simply relax on the banks and take in the park’s natural beauty!

Let’s face it: because of the coronavirus pandemic, vacationing likely looks a bit different for everyone. Thankfully, there are other options. A staycation means you can still spend a weekend away from home without ever having to leave the city, and planning one is easy in Tuscaloosa! With so many local restaurants, shops, and unique locations to enjoy, there’s no shortage of things to do. We’ve compiled a schedule below to help you plan your next Tuscaloosa staycation!

Check-in Time

Located in the heart of downtown and only a short walk from lots of bars and restaurants downtown, Home2 Suites is a beautiful hotel with a modern atmosphere. With a spectacular view of the downtown Tuscaloosa nightlife, there are several amenities that make this hotel a top choice. Enjoy free, hot breakfast, free wi-fi, free parking, and the indoor pool!

Candlewood Suites is another fine hotel for your weekend staycation. With a convenient location near Interstates 20 and 59, you can check out one of Tuscaloosa’s many attractions including The University of Alabama campus, a plethora of museums, nature trails, and plenty of unique shops! Experience top-notch customer service, spotless rooms, luxurious beds, and a great pool! Enjoy all that this special hotel has to offer by making a reservation online today!

Along the banks of the Black Warrior River and just minutes away from campus and downtown, enjoy a breathtaking view at Residence Inn on Rice Mine Loop.  This hotel is devoted to giving guests an amazing experience from start to finish, including great amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi, a free breakfast buffet, complimentary grocery delivery service, a grilling patio with fire pits, 24-hour fitness center, and an indoor pool. This hotel is also pet-friendly, so bring along the whole family for this staycation!

Out and About

If you’re looking to spend some time in the great outdoors this weekend, look no further than Lake Lurleen. The park is located only 20 minutes outside of town, and visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, swimming, fishing, kayaking, just to name a few. Lake Lurleen is also known for its birding trails, and don’t forget to stop by the park’s Nature Center to learn more about the region’s plants and wildlife!

Sokol Park is another outdoor spot that’s perfect for a weekend afternoon. The park is located a short drive from Tuscaloosa in Northport. Sokol Park offers a wide variety of facilities, including multipurpose fields, bike trails, and a track. There’s also a dog park if you want to bring your favorite furry friend!

If shopping is more your speed, Earnest & Hadley Booksellers is a hidden Tuscaloosa gem. With a wide selection of used, new, and collectible books for sale, you’re sure to find the perfect one for you! Earnest & Hadley also offers books from local authors, including fiction and nonfiction works. Stop by the store today, or shop online if you’re looking to social distance!

Dining Out

For a laid-back dining experience, GloryBound in downtown Tuscaloosa is a local favorite. With over 15 types of gyros to choose from, including chicken bacon ranch, surf-n-turf, and veggie, this restaurant can satisfy any craving! In 2014 & 2015 Restaurant Hospitality ranked the pepperjack gyro as one of the best sandwiches in America! Enjoy the juicy rotisserie seared beef and lamb wrapped with lettuce and onions topped with pepperjack cheese, crispy bacon, and phenomenal comeback sauce!

If you’re interested in fine dining in a classy atmosphere, stop by R. Davidson Chophouse! This restaurant is located downtown and has a number of sophisticated dishes. From jumbo lump crab cakes to the RD Chophouse burger, their expansive menu ensures that there’s something for everyone! Make your reservation online on their website, or order takeout if you’d prefer to eat at home.

Out on the Town

If you’re looking for a sweet treat, Brummi’s Yummies is open downtown and ready to serve you some of their homemade baked goods! Custom cakes and cupcakes are their specialties, but banana pudding, cheesecakes, and brownies are also available. No matter what you’re in the mood for, Brummi’s Yummies is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!

If you’re looking for after-dinner drinks this weekend, drop by Nocturnal Tavern! This local gothic-styled club/bar is located in the dark little corner of Tuscaloosa. Enjoy the mysterious atmosphere and Victorian-style as you choose between domestic and imported beverages, as well as a variety of mixed drinks. They open at 5:00 p.m., so don’t hesitate to get the party started a little earlier this weekend.

Get ready for crystal clear skies and sunny days this weekend in Tuscaloosa! Now is the perfect time to explore the unique, local gems of this incredible city. Whether you are savoring brunch at a local cafe, capturing a captivating view of Black Warrior River, or rocking out to some live music at your favorite bar, this town has what you need to make this weekend unforgettable.

 

The River Market

Visit the Tuscaloosa River Market Saturday for fresh, local produce and homemade goodies. Check out Savory Occasions table for warm bread pudding, or cool down with Tori’s Water Ice snow cones with flavors like tropical rainbow, green apple, cherry, pineapple, blue raspberry, and mango. Curbside pick-up is still available for select vendors. If you plan to attend, don’t forget your facemask! You will not be able to shop the market without it.

 

Live Music

Double down on tunes this weekend at Alcove International! Make plans Friday for the sweet sounds of SouthTown starting at 10 PM. They cover classic rock, blues, and dance songs. Saturday night get ready for some rock and roll performed by Non-GMO at 10 PM.

You can catch The Brick and Hubba Show at Rhythm and Brews tonight, and Carson Carlisle Saturday at 10 PM!

If you don’t feel like spending money, The Actor’s Charitable Theatre (ACT) will present a free concert in Capitol Park tonight at 7 PM! Come check it out for a night of live entertainment with your family and friends!

 

The Great Outdoors

Balance yourself and rent a paddleboard at Lake Nicol! What better way to soak up the rays? Tuscaloosa Paddleboard provides high-quality YOLO boards, and guaranteed fun. This is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and simultaneously get in a great workout! Plus, the view is a spectacular bonus. If you’d rather stay on dry land, check out their local trails and explore the beauty that Tuscaloosa has to offer. Pack a lunch and a picnic blanket to make the most out of these warm summer days.

 

Try Something New

Grab your brunch crew and head over to Another Broken Egg to enjoy their brand-new menu! Start off with sweet beignets with orange marmalade sauce, and a refreshing summertime cocktail. The Watermelon Cucumber Cooler is the perfect treat for a beautiful weekend!

 

If you are craving something a little more Southern and traditional, we’ve got the perfect place for you! Mae’s Southern Café uses authentic family recipes for every dish. Need help deciding what to order? Mae’s is famous for their fall off the bone ribs, smoked for 3 hours, and worth every bite! You can’t complete a southern meal without Mae’s sweet tea. Brewed, steeped, and sweetened to perfection every time.

 

The summer season of open roads and clear blue skies is quickly approaching. The time is now to relax, explore, and treat yourself. This year, try something different: a staycation! Now more than ever is the perfect time to experience Tuscaloosa as if you were a tourist in your hometown. We’ve taken it upon ourselves to plan the perfect Tuscaloosa staycation for you. After all, having an excellent staycation in Tuscaloosa is simple with all of the amazing stops just outside your front door!

9 A.M.: Breathe Easy

The greatest way to truly feel out of your mundane routine is to get some much-needed pampering at a spa. Tuscaloosa has several great spots ranging from the pinnacle of luxury, to more cozy and affordable that can give you that all so needed feeling.

Across the river, Spa Belle La Vie is a luxurious oasis for self-indulging in some elaborate pampering. They have facials, massages, and therapies like seaweed wraps and salt scrubs designed to wash away all your stress and give you a renewed, relaxed state of mind.

Chancee’s Spa is a hidden gem on the south side of downtown that is tucked away in a quaint brick home. The wellness spa specializes in massages and facials that are much more affordable for those who want to treat themselves without having to break the bank.

2 P.M.: Check-in

The next step in planning a staycation is finding the perfect getaway. Tuscaloosa has a couple of standout options that can serve as your home away from home.

Located on The University of Alabama’s campus, Hotel Capstone is a historic, full-service hotel within a short drive from downtown. Great dining is just outside your door with a contemporary restaurant and lounge on-site for your convenience. Legends Bistro offers a diverse menu with affordable options for even the most discerning of palates.

The Embassy Suites Hotel is minutes from Capitol Park and Murphy African American Museum. The suite-style lodging and luxurious bar/lounge give the hotel a sense of comfort and hospitality. The indoor pool and Side by Side restaurant all contribute to why this hotel would be the perfect place for a staycation.

4 P.M.: Explore

Our city’s natural beauty offers a wide range of places and hidden gems to enjoy the great outdoors during your staycation.

Just 20 minutes outside of town is the grand dame of lakes –Lake Lurleen. Take a quick drive out and explore the rustic beauty of the woods with the shimmering waters gracing the shorelines and beaches. The park features more than 23 miles of multi-use trails that are open to both hikers and mountain bikers. The park also features a Nature Center, fishing, facilities, and paddle boats.

While a popular hangout for students, there’s no denying the beauty found up along the cliffs of Lake Nicol. The lake is left open to explore with meandering paths along the cliffs and the open waters to canoe or swim around. It can feel like a totally different world far from any civilization without having to go too far from home.

7 P.M.: Dinner

There’s no better way to end a day in Tuscaloosa than at one of the city’s locally-owned restaurants.

Depalma’s is a Tuscaloosa gem with Italian pasta classics as well as pizza and calzones on the menu. For an appetizer, be sure to try their stuffed mushrooms or breadsticks! For now, you are able to take all of these delicacies straight to your hotel room to feast in peace!

If you’re looking for a more laid-back atmosphere, Avenue Pub is just around the corner! Kick back, grab a drink on tap, and be sure to enjoy some phenomenal pub food like the iconic Thai Nachos or the Bacon Burger.

10 P.M.: Drinks 

After dinner, Tuscaloosa has many local breweries and bars where you can grab drinks.

Loosa Brews is a locally-owned bar and retailer that has been specializing in quality craft beer since 2014. They offer 63 taps and have a full-service arcade, including a large number of classic arcade machines and pinball machines.

Black Warrior Brewing Company is another great downtown option for after-dinner drinks. The brewery and tap-room have been a staple in Tuscaloosa since 2012 and serve their own beer and wine creations.

During this time of fear and uncertainty, the kindest side of human nature can prevail. To provide some light relief in these difficult times, we’ve compiled a list of positive stories in our very own Tuscaloosa. Let these stories serve as a reminder of the strength, resilience, and kindness of our community.

LEND A HAND

University of Alabama students are using their extra time this semester to help others. UA junior Michael Arundel organized Leave It To Us, a nonprofit organization that helps senior citizens practice social distancing by using volunteers to go grocery shopping for them for free. The nonprofit was originated in Arundel’s hometown of Chicago and has recently expanded to Tuscaloosa and Birmingham. Those interested in volunteering for either the Tuscaloosa or Birmingham chapters of Leave It To Us can go to https://www.covidseniorshoppers.com/.

LOAVES AND FISHES

Loaves and Fishes food distribution program, which is overseen by Grace Presbyterian Church, has been helping hungry people in the Tuscaloosa area every month for more than 20 years. Social distancing requirements may have changed the interaction in the program, but not its outcome. Sheppard and her team of volunteers passed out between 300 and 400 bags of food on Tuesday. To help ensure that enough food and resources exist to help those in need, anyone wishing to donate can visit https://www.gracetuscaloosa.org/ and donate to either the church or directly to the Loaves and Fishes program.

FINANCIAL HELP FOR WEST ALABAMA SMALL BUSINESSES

This week the Chamber of Commerce announced more than $140,000 has been dispersed to more than 60 West Alabama businesses. That money can be used for several things such as rent, insurance, and other needs to help keep these businesses open despite struggles faced by COVID-19. Small business owner Audrey Vermilyea, of Monarch Espresso Bar, says “it’s been a huge help. It has been very encouraging”.

FREE LUNCH

American Lunch, a nonprofit organization, is in front of FIVE every day at 11 AM giving out lunches to anyone at NO cost. To support their cause and stay up-to-date on what they have been doing, check out their Instagram page at https://www.instagram.com/americanlunch1/.

FREE OIL CHANGE FOR DCH EMPLOYEES

Auto Tech and Tires is offering free oil changes for DCH Tuscaloosa and DCH Northport employees in the month of April. You can set up an appointment by calling (205)248-7695 or online at https://autotechandtires.com/.

HELPING SERVICE WORKERS IN TUSCALOOSA

Every Monday for the next five weeks, several organizations will come together to feed dozens of service workers in Tuscaloosa. They will be feeding families from 11-1 PM at Beulah Baptist Church. The meals are for individuals who did not have time to plan for the negative financial effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. This program is funded primarily through donations if you’d like to help. For more information or to donate, call Earnestine Tucker at 205-345-0201.

BLUE, THANK YOU

Last Thursday night the city of Tuscaloosa joined the national #LightItBlue movement to honor frontline health care workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Tuscaloosa City Hall, the Tuscaloosa River Market, the Downtown Intermodal Facility and the fountain at Alberta Park were all proudly lit with blue lights.

We want to genuinely thank you for assisting in keeping Tuscaloosa safe while continuing to show appreciation for your community. To help with the scenery, here are some downloadable Tuscaloosa Zoom backgrounds to help you stay #TtownStrong wherever you may be: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/z4edmej2kqu96ii/AADckj_9I76Li0tzstx35Q-ia?dl=0.

To ensure the health and safety of residents in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, bars, restaurants, and breweries have stopped serving food or drink on-site for one week, but many are still open for take-out only. With UA closing its doors for the spring semester and canceling May graduation, local businesses need support now more than ever.

The City of Tuscaloosa and the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama have worked together to come up with a plan that supports local businesses. We know that some people are not comfortable with leaving their home right now. Here are some ways you can help at varying levels of comfort:

● Purchase gift cards to use when the coronavirus is no longer a concern
● Order take out or delivery through the restaurant or business itself or through a service like Crimson2Go, where you have the option of ‘no contact delivery’
● Write reviews if you’ve had a positive experience
● Share posts on social media
● Shop online if a local business accepts online orders
● If your income hasn’t been affected by the coronavirus consider donating to a
a local business that could need it
● Tip generously
● If you are a business with employees working extended hours, consider bringing in meals from a local restaurant

If there’s one thing we’re certain of in these unprecedented times, it’s that residents of Tuscaloosa come together when faced with hardship. We choose to live here for many reasons both quantifiable and intangible and will always support our community.

Show us how you’re supporting local businesses by tagging #TuscaLocal on social media and visit ​https://tuscaloosachamber.com/support-local/​ for updates and a list of local businesses that could use your help.

This Friday night, Dylan Scott is in town. This nationally known country star will be performing his ‘Causin’ A Scene’ tour at Druid City Music Hall at 8 p.m. If you’re looking for something a little more low-key Dave’s Crimson Bar is having a paint, sip, repeat night at 6 p.m. Embrace your inner Picasso while enjoying some drinks with friends.

 

Start your Saturday morning off early at 7 a.m., sampling some of Sweet Home Chicago jellies and jam at the Tuscaloosa River Market! Later in the day, you can participate in the Druid City Pride Poker Run starting at 4 p.m. The Poker Run begins at Icon, and then you head out to other checkpoints (The Gray Lady, Tavern 1831, Nocturnal Tavern, and Catch 22) where you will draw a playing card and enjoy some drinks! If you’re 21, head over to the website to register. Later in the evening, the Black Jacket Symphony is presenting Journey’s “Escape.” Enjoy all of the greatest hits at Bama Theatre Galleries at 8 p.m.

 

Sporting Events at The University of Alabama

University of Alabama gymnastics take on Georgia at 7:15 p.m. at Coleman Coliseum. Celebrate senior night and Big Al’s birthday. University of Alabama baseball takes on Lipscomb all weekend at Sewell-Thomas Stadium. Friday at 6 p.m. Saturday at 2 p.m. and Sunday at 11 a.m. University of Alabama women’s soccer team takes on Tennessee at noon.

 

 

Meal Deals Drink Deals
Sunday Complimentary beignets at Waysider. Check out brunch locations here.  $5 margaritas at Central Mesa.
 

Monday

  

$5 burgers with a side at World of Beer.

 $4 Pitchers of Bud Light, Budweiser, Shock top, Sweetwater 420, and Yuengling at Buffalo Phil’s.
Tuesday  

$2 sushi at Chuck’s.

 ½ price wine glasses and bottles at Chophouse.
Wednesday ½ price wings at Innisfree. $5 draft beer and wells at River.
Thursday Buy one get one free boneless Thursdays at Buffalo Wild Wings. $5 signature cocktails at Heat Pizza.
Friday $10 Chicken Philly Po’boy at Brick and Spoon. $2 tallboys at The Filling Station.
Saturday ½ price burgers at Chophouse. $3 White Claws at Copper Top.

Valentine’s Day

Saturday

All Weekend