This Saturday marks the 28th annual National Trails Day! There is no better place to celebrate this holiday than Tuscaloosa. We encourage you to explore the beautiful local trails within our community. Lucky for you, we have listed below some of the many spots in Tuscaloosa to admire our city’s extraordinary trails.

 

Lake Lurleen  

Lake Lurleen is a favorite of locals looking for relaxation and recreation alike! The park’s trails are open to hikers and mountain bikers, and the park offers 91 campsites for those looking for an extended stay. If that isn’t enough to draw you in, the park also boasts fishing, swimming, boating, and a beach. Whether it’s walking your dog among the shoreline or renting a kayak, Lake Lurleen truly has something for everyone!

 

Lake Nicol

About 20 minutes from Tuscaloosa lies another paradise for those looking to enjoy the outdoors: Lake Nicol. This local favorite offers a chance to get off the beaten path and explore the wonder of mother nature. The many species of birds that call the area home make for excellent birdwatching. Visitors also enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and picnicking on the shore.

 

Lake Harris

Located outside of the city, Lake Harris is an amazing way to spend National Trail Day. The park features high cliffs, two dams, swimming spots, and a beach. The park’s main hiking trail leads visitors across the lake’s two dams, and the lake itself is known for its bass fishing. Lake Harris is an excellent local spot for your next outdoor adventure!

 

Hurricane Creek

Hurricane Creek has been an important part of the Tuscaloosa community for decades. In fact, the park’s popular Eagle Scout Trail was planned and blazed by local scouts. Explore this local favorite by canoeing down the creek, traversing the park’s biking and hiking trails, or simply taking in the native plants and wildlife.

 

Van de Graaff Arboretum & Historic Bridge Park

Van de Graaff Arboretum and Historic Bridge Park is located in Northport, a short drive from Tuscaloosa. The historic 1882 King Bowstring Bridge is a focal point of the park, and there is also a short hiking trail for visitors to explore. Camping, fishing, and boating are offered, and kayaks and canoes are available to rent onsite seasonally.

The City of Tuscaloosa has been very proactive to protect the community against the threat of COVID-19. While traveling may be on hold for some, our residents have the perfect opportunity for a staycation! SEC opening weekend for UA baseball has been canceled, but there are still plenty of other things to do this weekend for a Tuscaloosa staycation!

 

Friday 3/13

Don’t let Friday the 13th get in your way of a good night! Rhythm and Brews is hosting cover band, ‘Get Sideways’ Friday night. Come rock out and get a little sideways! If you’re looking for something to do with the entire family, Victory Blessing Christain Center is hosting Family Fun Night at 6:30 p.m. Come out and enjoy food, board games, and fellowship.

 

Saturday 3/14

It’s Pi Day and you don’t have to be a math wiz to take advantage of sweet deals. All Fired Up is a paint pottery studio that is fun for all ages. Get creative, and a free slice of pie while supplies last when you spend $20 or more.

 

Sunday 3/15

Drop into All Fired Up anytime from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday to create an Easter clay imprint. Imprints are $18 and for children 3 and under.UA students are officially on spring break, take advantage of the stillness of the city and take back your favorite restaurants. Visit Buffalo Phil’s on Sunday, where you can get a $2 mimosa, $3 bloody mary, $3 champagne, or $5.50 Philibuster.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

TUSCALOOSA- In the interest of the safety of its citizens, Mayor Walt Maddox has canceled all city group events through March 31. Following the Mayor’s lead Tuscaloosa Tourism & Sports has canceled all of its March sporting events, as well as the Druid City Arts Festival (DCAF) scheduled for April 3 & 4. This is a strategic move executed to get ahead of the COVID-19 pandemic. Tuscaloosa Tourism & Sports will faithfully follow the City’s directions.

At the end of March, the City will reevaluate for events scheduled in April and beyond. This has been a rapidly evolving situation, and we honor and respect the City’s decision. We are committed to doing our part to help protect our staff, attendees, and fellow Tuscaloosans.

“TTS understands the gravity of the situation for all the artists, musicians, organizations, and businesses involved in creating our incredible product. We are extremely disappointed to cancel an event that thousands have enjoyed the last ten years,” said Tuscaloosa Tourism & Sports CEO Don Staley. “But this is merely a temporary setback for our organization. We will work hard to bring unique events to Tuscaloosa, and we will continue to promote and develop local tourism and sporting events to stimulate Tuscaloosa’s economy, and enhance the quality of life for all Tuscaloosans.”

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.

 

February 28th

– The University of Alabama Gymnastics team takes on Kentucky at Coleman Coliseum at 7:15 p.m.

– The University of Alabama Baseball team is taking on Harvard University all weekend long. Friday at 3 p.m. Saturday at 2 p.m. and Sunday at 10:30 a.m.

– The University of Alabama Softball team has five games lined up this weekend. On Friday the Crimson Tide takes on the University of Tennessee at Arlington at 4 p.m. and University of Arizona at 6 p.m. On Saturday, Bama plays UT Arlington at 1:30 p.m. and Arizona at 4 p.m. Sunday, the women take on McNeese at 1:30 p.m.

February 29th

– The 9th Annual Chili Cook-off Fundraiser for East Tuscaloosa Community Soup Bowl is happening at Hargrove Memorial United Methodist Church Family Life Center. Tasting begins at 5:30 p.m. Cooks should prepare a large crockpot of chili and bring to the event by 5 p.m. Free admission! Cooks must pre-register. Everyone is invited to cook or taste or vote. Condiments and drinks provided. Donations are accepted and encouraged.

– Alabama Men’s Basketball takes on the University of South Carolina Gamecocks. Cheer on the Crimson Tide stating at 7:30 p.m., after all, it is fan appreciation night.

– Tyler Farr at Druid City Music Hall at 8 p.m. Grab some friends and enjoy some country music

– The 8th Annual Tuscaloosa African Film Festival at Central Highschool 6 p.m. until 10 p.m. The event will feature four acclaimed movies from the African continent and the broader African Diaspora – two feature-length films and two short films. Tickets are $10 for general admission and $5 for students with an ID and are available online at Brown Paper Tickets

– Bama Bourbon & Beyond at the Historic Drish House. Sample bourbons and other spirits from the Yellowhammer State and all over the Southeast served for a penny per pour. Enjoy a complimentary cigar, catered hors d ‘oeuvres, a live band, and much more!

– Celebrate Leap Day at the Children’s Hands-on Museum. Spend the extra day with your kids making crafts and competing in leaping challenges.

– The 2nd annual Wheelhouse Crawfish Boil starts around 2 p.m. and goes until 9 p.m. at Wheelhouse Sports Pub. $30 all you can eat, $10 for a single plate, and $5 doubles $10 domestic and Shock Top pitchers.

– The 3rd Annual Millennial Skate night at Super Skate is happening this weekend, with DJ Andy. Make sure you wear neon or white shorts, as they have installed black lights in for the event starting at 7 p.m.

– The Krispy Kreme doughnut challenge is happening this Saturday at 10 a.m. at the Government Plaza. The challenge benefits Big Brothers Big Sisters of West Alabama. The challenge is to walk or run a mile, eat a dozen doughnuts and then walk or run one mile to the finish line. Team up with friends or take on the challenge individually, kids can also participate in the challenge too, but don’t worry parents, and they only have to eat three doughnuts. Prizes will be given for the best team theme, best costume, and cash prizes will be given to the winners. Are you up for the challenge? Register here

March 1st

– Stephanie Kirkland x Sydney Gruber Pop-up Art Show. Join the artists for an afternoon of art, cocktails, and conversation from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. at Session Bar.

– The University of Alabama Women’s Basketball team has their Senior night this Sunday at 12:40 p.m. Make sure you go out and support the Crimson Tide as they take on Missouri.

The highly anticipated fight between Tuscaloosa native and heavyweight champion of the world, Deontay Wilder and Tyson Fury, is happening tomorrow, February 22, at 8 p.m. Central time. Below are a few places you can watch the fight in Tuscaloosa.

Where to Watch the fight Cover
Billy’s No cover
Heat Pizza Bar $5
R & R Cigars Paying customers only
Twelve25 $10 if you’re over 21 and $15 if you’re under 21
Willhagans  $20
 World of Beer Possible cover of $10

If you are aware of anywhere else that is showing the fight, feel free to mention it in the comments below.

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.

 

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

At Home

Get artsy at home

Spa night at home

– Treat each other to some face masks and massages. Customize your spa night to meet yours and your partner’s needs. If you need face masks, oils for massages, or supplies for pedicures, you can pick up your supplies at Target or Sally Beauty.

Bake-off

– Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth. Choose your favorite sweets and get competitive in the kitchen. See who makes the better cake, cookies, pies, or bread. Or showcase your decorating skills with dipped strawberries, pretzels, or peanuts.

Stargaze

– Grab a bottle of wine, a blanket, and find somewhere quiet to check out the stars. Clear skies are in the forecast for Friday night, so this could be a great opportunity.

Nerf-Gun war

– All is fair in love and nerf war. Grab some nerf guns and plenty of darts for a fun-filled competitive night.

Board games and puzzle Night

– Round up all of your favorite childhood board games for a game night.

Drink Tasting at Home

– Cravings is the place to pick up some beer, wine or sodas and then do a homemade tasting at home.

Out on the Town

Pottery Night

– Check out All Fired Up. You can reserve your spot ahead of time for $14 a couple for an hour and a half. Paint some pottery together or something for each other.

Waffle House

– Waffle House is dimming the lights on Valentine’s Day. This is the only night Waffle House accepts reservations.

Buy outfits at the thrift store for each other

– Put the responsibility in your partner and let them pick the direction your outfit is going in. See which side of the spectrum your significant other gets your outfit, whether it be cute or crazy.

Lake Laureen

– Pack up a picnic and head to Lake Laureen for a picnic. Don’t forget your cutlery and drinks!

Opening day baseball

– The Alabama Crimson Tide baseball team’s opening night is this Friday at Watch the Tide take on Northeastern at 3 p.m.

Roller skate

– Skate your way through valentine’s day at Super Skate. Open from 7 p.m. until 11 p.m.

Monster Hunting

– Wander around Tuscaloosa for the monsters. These monsters were designed by elementary students and created by artists around town. Check out the website.

First Friday is here! Downtown Tuscaloosa’s Art Walk is a night full of art, music, and more. This is a great opportunity to check out all of the galleries and shows Tuscaloosa has to offer. All of the galleries are within walking distance of each other, so it is a great experience for a local night out.

Start your morning off by taking your kids to the Children’s Hands-On Museum for ‘Be My Valentine’ starting at 9 a.m. Here kids will explore Valentine’s Day through science, technology, engineering, art and math projects, and challenges. The kids can also get a head start on creating their Valentine’s Day cards!

The Great Tuscaloosa Chili Cookoff is happening this weekend at Bryant Conference Center at 10:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. Take part in sampling over 30 chili recipes and cast your vote for your favorite, to help determine a winner. This event also features live entertainment, children’s activities and free ice-cream, chili dogs, and cheese biscuits. This event costs $10 for adults, and children under 6 are free. Exchange Club of Tuscaloosa will donate all funds to several projects, including Youth Development, the Exchange Club’s work in child abuse prevention, and community service.

If you want to kick start your Valentine’s Day, World Market has a ‘Sweets & Treats’ event from noon until 5 p.m. This free event allows you to sample chocolates, berries, candies, and bubblies. Plus, World Market is sharing a unique dessert recipe that everyone will love. Pick out your favorites and be all set for Valentine’s with your significant other or Galentine’s with your friends.

Elevation of Art is going to be at the third annual Tuscaloosa Heritage Festival. Embrace the diverse cultural heritage of Tuscaloosa through art exhibitions at this free event. This festival will take place at the McDonald Hughes Center from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m.

The ninth Annual Interactive Family Night at the museum will be at the Natural History Museum in Smith and Lloyd Hall on the University’s campus. Family Night is free from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. Don’t miss out on interactive activities as well as door prizes and free food.

If you are looking for live music, cap your Saturday night off at Druid City Brewing.  ‘When Particles Collide’ will be performing starting at 8 p.m. ‘When Particles Collide’ is a must-see band starring a jazz drummer and choral vocalist that tour all over the U.S. and Canada.

Don’t forget the Farmers Market at Tuscaloosa River Market takes place every Saturday from 7 a.m. until noon all year!

Be sure to tag us in your social media posts using #weekendsinttown.

This Friday at Druid City Music Hall AFTM will be performing with the Revelries at 8 p.m. AFTM is an Athens, GA established band. This six-piece unit has a distinct and energetic sound. The Revelries are a band of four boys, who have been jamming together since 2016. Both bands have a unique style that combines all your favorites from guitar-rock to alternative-rock. You are guaranteed to have a one-of-a-kind experience!

The Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama presents Firebringer: The Musical at Eat My Beats on Friday at 7 p.m. Take yourself back to pre-historic times and watch as a tribe of cave-people overcome the hard trials of life and change the world forever. This musical is rated R and admission is $15.

Start your Saturday morning off by going to the Farmers Market at Tuscaloosa River Market. The Farmers Market is open every Saturday from 7 a.m. until noon, all year. Whether you’re looking for fresh produce or artesian crafts, there is something for the whole family. Saturday afternoon there is a Margarita Crawl from 2 p.m. till 8 p.m. starting at the Lookout Rooftop Bar at Hotel Indigo. Be sure to grab a ticket in the link below to secure your spot for discounted drinks at multiple venues. Don’t forget your ID! https://www.facebook.com/events/2353557071374184/

On Saturday night you can go watch The Alabama Crimson Tide men’s basketball team take on the Arkansas Razorbacks at Coleman Coliseum at 5 p.m. Come cheer on the team to help them bounce back from a loss at LSU, this past Wednesday. If you’re looking for live music, Ashley McBryde will be performing with Lainey Wilson at Druid City Music Hall at 8 p.m. These Nashville based country music stars are sweeping the U.S. on “The One Night Standards Tour.” Don’t miss your chance to be a part of it!

Don’t forget to tag us in your social media posts using #weekendsinttown

Written By: Alexandra Morrissey