This weekend is blessing us with spectacular sunny skies, so don’t be afraid to explore the captivating city by foot and soak up the rays. Tuscaloosa’s Civil Rights Trail is the perfect way to spend time with your family and immerse yourself in the rich history of Druid City! With over 15 sites scattered all across Downtown Tuscaloosa, you now have the chance to enjoy the outdoors, spend time with friends and family, and learn about this city’s history.
One of the historically significant sites in town is Foster Auditorium, which was the location of the Stand in the Schoolhouse Door. Despite Governor George C. Wallace’s futile efforts, Vivian Malone and James Hood became the first African Americans to register for classes since the university’s inception. Two incredibly famous sites on the local trail represent the march of Bloody Tuesday, a peaceful protest walking from First African Baptist Church to the Tuscaloosa County Courthouse in opposition to the segregation at the county courthouse. Other prominent locations along the way include Capitol Park, Druid Theater, the Alston building, and many more historically rich locations. A complete list of landmarks with their addresses can be found here, along with historical context and details surrounding each event.
Each landmark on this trail marks extremely important moments that happened in Tuscaloosa. The trail does a phenomenal job of bringing so many beautiful stories to life, whether it be the first black legislator or significant protests that occurred throughout the town. All of these stories come together in the end to paint a picture of Tuscaloosa’s role in the civil rights movement. This trail enables many to share their personal experiences regarding the fight for civil rights, and all of their stories deserve to be heard. The American heroes who marched and fought for their freedom deserve to be remembered and honored.
This trail has become such a vital piece of our country’s past, with its influence spanning far beyond the confines of the Tuscaloosa city limits. So, what are you waiting for? Take time this weekend to spend time with loved ones, enjoy the beautiful weather, and travel back in time to discover the rich history of Tuscaloosa!
June has officially arrived, and with it have also arrived the long, hot summer days that the South is known for. Thankfully, Tuscaloosa has plenty of things to help you make the most of this time! If you haven’t made any plans for this weekend, check out the options below to see how you can get a taste of what the city has to offer.
These aren’t the only ones open
Many local bars and breweries have reopened their doors to the public! Local hotspots like Loosa Brews, Innisfree, and Black Warrior Brewing Company are all open to customers this weekend. If you’re still looking to stay home, curbside pickup service is available from all three locations.
Get a Sweet Treat
Pick up some baked goods to enjoy this weekend! Tuscaloosa has a couple of standout options to satisfy your cravings. Edgar’s Bakery, Whimsy Cookie Co., and Mi Casita Bakery are a few excellent options if you’re looking to indulge in the sweeter side of things. If ice-cream is more up your alley, check out Las Piñas behind Bowlero.
Experience the Outdoors
If you’re interested in spending some time outdoors, Tuscaloosa has some beautiful parks for you to enjoy. Lake Lurleen and Lake Nicol are two local hotspots that have so much to offer. Enjoy activities such as hiking, fishing, boating, swimming, and picnicking only a short drive from the city!
Take a Class
For our older readers looking to stay in this weekend, The University of Alabama’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, or OLLI, is offering classes on a variety of subjects. With topics including architecture, international relations, and retirement, there’s sure to be something for everyone. Visit their website to learn how to sign up for one this weekend!
Stay Home
Still not comfortable leaving the house just yet? No worries! You can experience some of Tuscaloosa’s most historic locations thanks to virtual tours from the Tuscaloosa County Preservation Society. Check out the Battle-Friedman House, The Old Tavern, and more from the comfort of your own home!
Sometimes the weekend is the perfect time to indulge in some self-care. Treat yourself to some Salt Soaks from Left Hand Soap Company and wind down. Scents like lavender or rosemary mint are guaranteed to help you relax. Salt Soaks are available online for shipping or pick up.
The play, Inherit the Wind, is happening Friday at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday at 2 p.m. at Theatre Tuscaloosa. This play is based on the events of the Scopes Monkey Trials, Inherit the Wind pits two lawyers against one another as the state prosecutes a teacher for discussing the theory of evolution in the classroom.
The Easton Bama Bash softball tournament is happening all weekend. Alabama softball is taking on Wichita State at 5 p.m. and Penn State at 7 p.m. Friday. On Saturday, the Crimson Tide will take on Louisville at 2:30 p.m. and Penn State at 5 p.m.
The Servant of Two Masters is performing this weekend at the Marian Gallaway Theatre. The show starts at 7:30 p.m. on both Friday and Saturday. Watch a young man, Truffaldino, seize his opportunities among mistaken identities and disguises.
If you like southern jam blues, then check out Joey Fletcher and his band Friday night at Egans Bar. The performance starts at 10 p.m. elaborate on type of music. Joey is one of the most respected slide guitarists in the country and has performed all over the U.S. from dive bars to festivals.
Crunch Fitness is having an Open House on Saturday and Sunday, where you can check out the gym, workout, and listen to live music. This event is free for everyone, whether you are a member or not.
Get your kids together and celebrate Mardi Gras on Saturday at the Children’s Hands-on Museum. This family-friendly event lets the kids get crafty and try some king cake.
All Fired Up is having a clay penguin sculpting event on Saturday at 10 a.m. Each penguin comes with a scarf and an adoption certificate. $1 of every certificate will be donated to the Global Penguin Society.
It’s girl scout cookie season! Houndstooth is doing a Girl Scout cookie and whiskey pairing on Sunday from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. The chocolate, peanut butter, and graham cracker flavors highlight the whiskey notes.
Tomorrow we will be sharing all the spots you can watch the fight between Deontay Wilder and Fury.