Fall has arrived, and with it came that familiar crisp autumn air, which means the outdoors are calling our names! See for yourself Tuscaloosa’s breathtaking back yard…and it doesn’t stop there, either. This city’s stunning landscape paired with phenomenal local businesses elevates an already beautiful destination into a MUST-DO Road Trip. Whether you are looking to wind down with an outdoor picnic, take an adventure hiking through the fall foliage, or shop like there’s no tomorrow, let these 10 reasons why Tuscaloosa should be your next weekend getaway guide your planning process. After all, you don’t want the legendary Tuscaloosa Experience to pass you by!
1.jDowntown Tuscaloosa:
A recent addition to the city’s outstanding coffee shop scene is about to open and we couldn’t be more excited! Just Love Coffee prioritizes that sense of community as a business. The laid-back & relaxed atmosphere that makes Just Love Coffee Cafe so special was created to be different than the stuffy reputation of most specialty coffee shops. Downtown Tuscaloosa is a prime place to shop until you drop. Whether you are looking for your next gameday attire at The Pants Store, or searching for an antique accessory at Twice as Nice, this area is ideal for shopping at a vast variety of places that are all conveniently located!
2. Riverwalk
Offering a serene view of the Black Warrior River, the Riverwalk is also the place to hammock, picnic, or relax! There are numerous picnic tables, benches, and gazebos to provide a comfortable environment, allowing you to get the most out of your experience with the great outdoors of T-Town. Let your mind take a rest from all the hustle and bustle of everyday life. If you are looking to work up a sweat and take advantage of the cooler temperatures, there is also a running path along the Riverwalk to enjoy in the morning or throughout the day. In addition to these activities, the Riverwalk is located close to a number of restaurants to enjoy either at the start or at the end of a delightful Autumn day, like Market House Boutique, Another Broken Egg, and River. Be sure to carry a mask with you for safety if you intend to visit any of the restaurants or businesses on the Riverwalk!
3. Lake Harris
Lake Harris is one of the many nearby lakes that offers an incredible setting for a number of different outdoor activities. There are plenty of picnic areas and a beach, where one might spread out a blanket to enjoy their lunch or simply take in the scene. In addition to these spots, there are a number of trees gathered close by the bank, perfect for setting up a cozy hammock! For those who are looking to stay active, there is a 1.76-mile hike around the lake through the trees. As the weather cools down, this area will become a peaceful gathering place for all who wish to experience some of Tuscaloosa’s many hidden gems.
4. Farmer’s Market
The Tuscaloosa Farmers Market is a spectacular shopping spot where you can find anything from a hand-cut Maple & Walnut Cutting Board to a hand-poured Yellowhammer candle scented Alabama Shores, all within walking distance. Each Saturday from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m. local vendors of all specialties gather at the Tuscaloosa River Market to show off their wares to the community. If you plan on discovering the market’s incredible vendors this Saturday, wear a mask and be prepared to follow all social distancing guidelines!
5. Children’s Hands-on Museum
CHOM is a wonderful place in town where children explore, create, and discover something new every time they visit. When we say “hands-on” we really mean it! Learning through play is what CHOM’S exhibits are all about, where kids are encouraged to touch, feel, and play in fantastic exhibits. Three floors of fun await with 24 exhibits, offering newborns and 13 year-olds alike an opportunity to completely immerse yourself in fun learning processes.
6. Kentuck Art Center
This local favorite offers a unique view into the minds of the endlessly talented local artists all around Tuscaloosa. From handmade, one-of-a-kind jewelry to kitchen pitchers, this gold mine is ideal for a one-stop-shop for all of your holiday gifts. The Kentuck Gallery Shop offers an incredible shopping experience unlike any other online and/or in-person! Also, the 49th Kentuck Festival of the Arts is open NOW until December 31, 2020. With over 180 artist shops specializing in categories like clay, glass, jewelry, mixed media, sculpture, and wood you are bound to find the perfect Christmas present for everyone on your list!
7. Bower’s Park
Bower’s Park is a nearby public park that offers quite a few activity opportunities, like a disc golf course or several fields for rent. Not much different from regular golf, disc golf is an active way to stay busy on a delightful weekend outside! Those looking to get into this sport need to be sure and purchase discs ahead of time, however. As far as a field for rent, Bower’s Park has a number of different fields, baseball/softball or multipurpose, that can be rented out for a small gathering of friends to safely play a pickup game of baseball, softball, and more! Before visiting Bower’s Park, be sure to bring along a mask in case of other visitors.
8. Civil Rights Trail
As temperatures slowly start to drop, it is prime time to spend the day walking around outside and exploring new places. Among the many adventures that await you in town is the Civil Rights Trail, where anyone has the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of history and learn about how the Civil Rights Movement shaped the City of Tuscaloosa. Located primarily in Downtown Tuscaloosa, this trail is perfect for staying active and demonstrates a profound learning opportunity for those who are not aware of the history of Tuscaloosa. Thanks to its proximity to Downtown Tuscaloosa, the Civil Rights Trail is also a good opportunity to discover local dining options, such as Reggae Flava and Brummi’s Yummies. For more T-Town treasures along the trail check out the official guide here.
9. Government Plaza
If you are looking for a versatile area that offers wide-open spaces to safely enjoy this city, then the Government Plaza is the spot for you. Located in the heart of downtown, this 5-acre park makes social distancing a breeze. Soak in all of the cozy fall vibes while diving into a good book from Ernest and Hadley, grubbing on delicious Heat pizza, sipping on some Monarch coffee, or maybe even unwinding with your favorite yoga flow. After months on end of being trapped inside now is the time to relax and appreciate nature in all its wonder. If you want your furry friend to tag along, the sidewalks surrounding the park makes for the perfect path for walking with your furry friend.
10. Lake Tuscaloosa
This local hangout has everything you need for an unforgettable lake day with friends and family. Lake Tuscaloosa has earned its reputation as the perfect fishing spot with bass, sunfish, crappie, and more. If fishing isn’t for you, stand on the shore, hike the lake’s cliffs, or simply take in the captivating views! Only a short drive from the city, this lake makes pairing a morning out in nature and Rama Jama’s iconic Southern breakfast unbelievably easy as well. You are bound to have a blast at this local treasure, especially in this beautiful fall weather.
When you’re ready to plan your next road trip to T-Town check out all of the exceptional hotels this city has to offer!
Written by: Jamie Hoven
Do you feel like mixing it up this weekend? Well, then you’re in luck! Take a journey back in time and discover the City of Tuscaloosa’s critical role in the Civil Rights Movement. Enjoy the great outdoors and the energetic vibe of Downtown Tuscaloosa while uncovering this city’s diverse history on Tuscaloosa’s Civil Rights Trail!
This trail is a collection of 18 sites scattered throughout Downtown Tuscaloosa, exhibiting key locations where the Civil Rights Movement and pivotal moments in the struggle of Black Americans took place in Tuscaloosa. From historical political sites to memorial sites named for famous Black Americans, the Civil Rights Trail celebrates the heroes of the movement and makes for an incredible outdoor walk through time.
Below, we have put together a rough timeline of a walk along our local Civil Rights Trail, including pro tips along the way. In addition to the trail itself, we have included several nearby Black-owned businesses to visit for decadent meals and delicious treats! Follow along with this brochure guide for more information about each of the incredible stops throughout the journey.
10:00 am
Start your day at Capitol Park (1) amongst the rubble of a building where the Alabama State government met from 1826 to 1846. This building was where many of the slave codes were legislated and enacted to protect and promote white supremacy throughout the State of Alabama. The remains of the old legislative building are a somber reminder of what happened in Tuscaloosa and all that came afterward in the following century during the Civil Rights Movement.
10:30 am
Close by Capitol Park is the second stop on the Civil Rights trail: The Lynching and Old Jail (2) stop. Designated by a historical marker, this old jailhouse building served as the county jail from 1856 to 1890 and held both white and black prisoners. However, through its years of operation, lynchings of Black prisoners occurred – eight of which are chronicled by the historical marker found at this site.
11:00 am
A short walk away is a newly opened food truck-turned-restaurant, Reggae Flava. This fresh addition to Timmerson Square is a popular Black-owned restaurant that serves up delicious Caribbean flavor for all its patrons. Whether you’re craving tender Oxtail or Pineapple BBQ Jerk Salmon, you’ll have no trouble finding your new favorite dish.
12:00 pm
After indulging a hearty meal of Caribbean cuisine, head to the corner of University Boulevard and Lurleen Wallace Boulevard to find the next stop on the Civil Rights Trail: The Druid Theatre and Hollywood (3) stop. The then newly-integrated theatre was the site of two angry white mobs in response to the Civil Rights Act in 1964. These incidents brought Tuscaloosa into the national spotlight, sparking outrage among many.
12:30 pm
Nearby is another stop along the trail: The Mob at the Flagpole (4). This designated meeting location during the Civil Rights movement was the hub for students and local citizens to gather and express their discontent as the status quo was being challenged in the City of Tuscaloosa. Most notably, this flagpole was where a mob met to respond to the integration of the University of Alabama in 1955 when Autherine Lucy was admitted to the college.
Another few stops along the Civil Rights Trail to consider at this point are Woolworth and Sit-Ins, (5) First Black Legislator: Shandy Jones (6), and the Kress Building and Bus Boycott (7).
1:30 pm
The next stop of the Civil Rights Trail is the Paul R. Jones Museum (8), a museum created by a powerful figurehead in the history of Civil Rights in Tuscaloosa. Paul R. Jones was once denied admission to the University of Alabama Law School in 1949 based on his race but then went on to fight for the Civil Rights Movement in the South. The museum is a collection of African-American art pieces donated by Jones to the University of Alabama in 2008 at a value of $5 million. The Paul R. Jones Museum is a beautiful expression of the journey he endured facing racism head-on. This magnificent exhibition of modern African-American art rotates different pieces in and out, with new shows regularly.
The Alston Building (9) is famous for two things, Governors George and Lurleen Wallace were married here, and Robert K. Shelton ran the United Klans of America from a three-room suite on the fourth floor.
2:00 pm
At the midpoint of your walk along the Civil Rights Trail, you can stop by Brummies
Yummies for a quick sweet treat! Brummi’s Yummies is another Black-owned business in town located along the Civil Rights Trail. This delightful bakery has several sweet treats to satisfy your cravings, whether it is Cookie Dough Brownies, Orange Dreamsicle Cupcakes, or other unforgettable treats. It is a great place to stop by and take a rest before enjoying the remainder of Tuscaloosa’s Civil Rights Trail.
2:30 pm
The next stop on the trail is the Dinah Washington Cultural Arts Center (10).
In the Southeast portion of Downtown Tuscaloosa, there are other additional stops to be made along the Civil Rights Trail: The County Courthouse and Marchers (11), Greensboro Avenue Churches (12), Bluefront District (13), Bailey Tabernacle CME Church (14), and Hunter Chapel AME Zion Church (15), the oldest African American church organized in Tuscaloosa. It was also the first church to host Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. who spoke here in 1955.
3:30 pm
First African Baptist Church (16) is one of the last stops along the Civil Rights Trail and is one of the more important ones. First African Baptist Church was the site of “Bloody Tuesday”, which was a violent attack on peaceful protesters by Tuscaloosa Police and white extremists who had been deputized. Built as a haven for Black worshippers upset with the discriminatory practices of the First Baptist Church, this church has stood at the corner of 4th Street and 24th Avenue since 1900 and is an important milestone along the Civil Rights Trail of Tuscaloosa.
Another stop to visit after First African Baptist Church is the Murphy-Collins House (17). Originally the private home of Tuscaloosa’s first black mortician, it is now a museum focusing on the life of African-Americans in the 1900s. Read more about this stop in the brochure guide linked above.
4:30 pm
The Howard-Linton Barbershop (18) is the final stop and is one of the more unique spots along the trail. The owner of the barbershop, the late Reverend Thomas Linton, was a powerful figure in the fight for Civil Rights in Tuscaloosa, working closely with Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert F. Kennedy throughout the Civil Rights Movement. Additionally, this barbershop was the hiding place for Autherine Lucy when she was escaping the mob of white citizens after she attempted to integrate the University of Alabama. Reverend Linton’s shop is filled with mementos and artifacts that showcase the struggle of Black Americans living in Tuscaloosa and the South throughout the Civil Rights Movement.
5:30 pm
After you have finished your day along the Civil Rights Trail of Tuscaloosa, be sure to head to one of the many Black-owned restaurants in Tuscaloosa to show your support! There are many different restaurants around Tuscaloosa with delicious dinner meal offerings, including Archibald & Woodrow’s BBQ, Catfish Heaven, KSV, and King’s Kitchen.
Written By: Will Baggett
Edited By: Jamie Hoven
It’s summer in Tuscaloosa and locals and tourists alike are looking for ways to spend their free time. Luckily for us, The City of Tuscaloosa is hosting Live at the Plaza for the fourth consecutive summer. For those who are unfamiliar, Live at the Plaza is held every Friday night in June and July at the Government Plaza and features live music from local musicians. To prepare you for the excitement of this event, we’ve come up with 5 reasons why you should attend Live at The Plaza this summer.
It’s Free!
Live music, a great atmosphere, and a fun, new way to spend a Friday evening- for no cost! If you ask us, it doesn’t get much better than that. If you’re looking for a way to save money and still get the most out of your summer, this is a perfect opportunity for you. All you have to do is show up, bring a blanket or a lawn chair, sit back, and enjoy.
The music
There are two things in life that are pretty hard to beat: A well put on show and quality music. Live at the Plaza provides the opportunity for the community to gather together and enjoy the talent showcased not only from right here in Tuscaloosa but all over the South. The diversity of performances over the summer will satisfy music lovers few and far between. There will be a variety of music played from jazz, alternative, country, rock, and others. Some highlights from this year’s musical lineup include the Lamont Landers Band, The John Wilson Band and Orange Constant. For other bands check out our lineup list here.
The food trucks and vendors
Along with enjoying the performance, you will have the opportunity to shop and eat. Local vendors and food trucks can apply to have a space surrounding the lawn to sell their goods. Look out for local nonprofits and retailers that you’ve seen around town. And we can’t forget about the food! Although we don’t know exactly who will be there yet, we know it’s going to be good. Participants can count on some of the most popular businesses around our area renting out the space. Look out for some of your favorites, such as Local Roots or La Mexicana.
It’s fun for everyone
One of the greatest aspects about Live of the Plaza is that anyone can go and enjoy their time. It’s the perfect opportunity to get the family out of the house and spend quality time together. Kids and adults alike will love the lively atmosphere of the concert. And you can bring your pets! Additionally, it’s the perfect way to enjoy time with friends, or a date night. Although you can’t bring your own alcohol, you are allowed to purchase drinks from surrounding bars and restaurants and stroll around the Plaza while enjoying the music and atmosphere. They’ve got it all covered: the food, the drinks, the music. How much better does it get?
The location
The Government Plaza is right in the middle of all the Downtown action. There’s retail stores, coffee shops, restaurants and bars all within walking distance. And its outside! Even though it can get hot here in the summer, the concerts are at night which will cool things off. You can bring a picnic blanket or a lawn chair as you enjoy the show. The atmosphere of Live at the Plaza is hard to beat- and something you won’t want to miss.
Now that you know a little bit more about what to expect, it’s time to get excited. Tell your family and friends so they can look forward to it as well. Live at the Plaza is going to be a hit, just as it has been in the summers before. We hope this has helped you know what to look forward to, and we hope to see you there!
Written by Anna McAbee
The first weekend of the month is always a big arts and culture weekend in Tuscaloosa, and this month has even more to experience than usual! The Tuscaloosa Heritage Festival kicks off Thursday and goes through Saturday, so check out this special music, film, and dance festival that is unique to Tuscaloosa. Kentuck Art Night and First Friday will have tons of beautiful works of art on display for you to enjoy. The Cadillac Three is back in town, and it’s a show you don’t want to miss. While you’re enjoying the local art scene on Friday, grab a drink from your favorite bar because Tuscaloosa will be an entertainment district until 10 pm. Don’t forget to tag us at @VisitTuscaloosa in your social posts while you are exploring the arts and culture scene, and use #FirstFridayTuscaloosa.
Kentuck Art Night
This Thursday night Feb. 1, at 5 pm head to historic downtown Northport for a fun night for the whole family. Kentuck Art Night is a monthly free event that includes: an exhibition at Kentuck Art Center, Kentuck Studio Artists have studios open, pop up shops in the Courtyard of Wonders, a food truck, live music, Downtown Northport artists’ studios, champagne for Big Dog and Fire Ant members of Kentuck, wine, snacks, and cob oven pizza.
First Friday
First Friday returns this week to kick off 2018. The galleries involved can’t wait to showcase their amazing works of art to the community. First Friday is completely free, and some of the galleries will be serving hors d’oeuvres for you to enjoy while you admire their masterpieces. While you’re enjoying the local art scene, grab a drink from your favorite bar because Tuscaloosa will be an entertainment district until 10 pm. Taking a stroll through downtown Tuscaloosa is the perfect way to kick off the weekend. Galleries on the Art Walk include The Arts Council and The University of Alabama Galleries at the Dinah Washington Cultural Arts Center, The Paul R. Jones Gallery, Harrison Galleries, O’Connor Art Studios and Grace Aberdean Habitat Alchemy. Visit firstfridaytuscaloosa.com for offerings and hours.
Cadillac Three
The Cadillac Three is an American Southern rock group consisting of Jaren Johnston, Kelby Ray, and Neil Mason. They have toured with many big-name artists and bands such as Florida-Georgia Line. Catch them at Druid City Music Hall on Saturday, February 3rd at Druid City Music Hall! Doors open at 7:30 pm with music starting around 8:30. Visit ticketweb.com to grab a ticket to this awesome concert.
Tuscaloosa Heritage Festival
The Tuscaloosa Heritage Festival is a three-day celebration promoting diversity and cultural sensitivity, in the areas of film, music, and dance. These exciting cultural events will include food vendors, craft vendors and more. The West Alabama community will be able to participate in a “Rep Your Heritage” Film Challenge and Spiritual Dance Competition as well as the Africana Film Festival. The festival is Thursday, Feb. 1 through Saturday, Feb.3.
Alabama Women’s Basketball Game
Watching the Tide play basketball is the perfect way to spend an afternoon. The Crimson Tide women’s basketball team takes on the Arkansas Razorbacks Sunday in Coleman Coliseum. Tip-off is at 1:00 p.m., and this conference game is sure to be a good one!
It’s a weekend of music, sports, and celebrating in the City of Champions. Band of Brothers hosts award-winning blues artist Diedra the Alabama Blues Queen, Alabama men’s and women’s basketball play conference games, and the football team’s national title celebration will take place on Saturday at 2:00 p.m. on the steps of Bryant-Denny Stadium. Also, Monday brings with it a special event unique to Tuscaloosa. It’s D.A.T.E. Week! Check out the info below so you can plan your weekend accordingly. The weather is even going to warm up so you can get out and have some fun after this cold spell, so we know you’re itching to get out and get down.
Diedre The Alabama Blues Queen at Band of Brothers Brewing Company | Friday, January 19 | 7:00-10:00
Diedra The Alabama Blues Queen is a 15-time Blues Award Winning and Nominated International Artist and a 2014 International Blues Challenge Finalist. Together with her band that includes husband and Alabama Blues Hall of Fame member Keithen Ruff, she belts out blues hits like “Born Under a Bad Sign.” Battered Wild Food Truck will be on site, so you can grab a nice local brew, listen to the best blues around, and grub!
Alabama Men’s Basketball vs. Mississippi State | Saturday, January 20 | 7:30
The Tide iced the hottest team in the country on Wednesday when they snapped Auburn’s 14-game winning streak behind John Petty’s 27 points on eight three-pointers. Alabama now has a nice 4-game winning streak of their own, and look to keep it rolling against Mississippi State on Saturday. Come out and see this special Tide squad before these Freshmen go pro!
Alabama Women’s Basketball vs. Vanderbilt | Sunday, January 21 | 2:00
At 13-5 through eighteen games, Alabama is having a great year under 5th-year coach Kristy Curry. Most impressive is the Tide’s 9-1 record in Coleman Coliseum so far. Come see as the squad continues its climb to the top of the conference against Vanderbilt on Sunday. If you enjoy winning, you can’t miss this Alabama team at home. General Admission (All Ages) is $5, so don’t miss out.
D.A.T.E Week | January 22-26
We have a special event for you beginning Monday of next week (1/22). It’s D.A.T.E Week! Local businesses will have special promotions on Diamonds, Arrangements, Tastes, and Entertainment (D.A.T.E.). Your SO would love some pretty flowers and a nice dinner out. Or perhaps they would love to do something fun with you like attend a chocolate making class, a wine pairing, or mixology class. All of this is going on and more during D.A.T.E Week! Visit our website TtownDateWeek.com for a full list of participating locations and start planning your special night out today!
Have a blast in the City of Champions this weekend, and check out visittuscaloosa.xyz/events for more upcoming events!
The Alabama football team may be headed to New Orleans, but there is a lot going on in Tuscaloosa this New Year’s weekend. Both Alabama basketball teams begin conference play in Coleman Coliseum against ranked foes, and Holidays on the River gives you a chance to experience Tuscaloosa’s winter wonderland with ice skating and more. Don’t forget to tag @VisitTuscaloosa on Instagram when you post your holiday adventures around Tuscaloosa. We may use your photo and give you a shoutout!
It’s going to be another perfect winter weekend for ice skating and fun at Holidays on the River. If you haven’t tried ice skating before then now is your chance to experience something new and different. The rink will be open from 2 pm -10 pm on Friday and 11 am – 9 pm on Saturday. There will also be a New Year’s Eve celebration on Sunday. Buy your tickets at now at http://www.holidaysontheriver.com/
After an 8-4 start against non-conference opponents, the Alabama men’s basketball team begins SEC play Saturday with a visit from the #5 Texas A&M. The Aggies come into Tuscaloosa with an 11-1 record and looking like the team to beat in the SEC. An Alabama win would be huge for the program and the season, as the Tide have struggled toward the end of their non-conference schedule. This is one of the biggest games in Coleman in a long time. The atmosphere will be electric with the Tide’s 5-star talent trying to knock off a top 5 opponent. You won’t want to miss this one! Get tickets now at RollTide.com for this 5 pm tipoff.
New Year’s Eve is all about fun, and the Children’s Hands-On Museum wants to make sure kids get the full, festive experience. From 10 am – 12 pm on Saturday the 30th CHOM will host the New Year’s Eve for Kids and will pull out all the stops to make sure kids ring in the new year right. This includes hats, horns, tiaras, a balloon drop at 11 am, and a New Year’s toast. Go to CHOMOnline.org for more information, and Happy New Year!
The men’s basketball squad isn’t the only team entering SEC play this weekend. The women’s team will continue their special season against #16 Missouri on Sunday at 2 pm. Alabama is on a five-game winning streak and has posted a 9-3 record on the season thus far. They are a perfect 7-0 at home, so maybe that home cooking will help knock off the 12-1 Tigers. Come be a part of what could be a statement win of the 2017 season. Tickets are $5 and can be purchased at RollTide.com.
We have tons more going on so check out our great upcoming events at visittuscaloosa.xyz/events, and follow us on our social media pages (@visittuscaloosa) for more announcements.
It’s another great weekend filled with exciting events in Tuscaloosa! Alabama football and basketball are in action, and there is live music and performances for those so inclined. The entertainment district downtown has gone so well that it has been extended. This Friday and Saturday you will be able to head downtown, grab a drink, and explore the wonderful shops and art galleries in the area so don’t miss out!
Alabama rolls into its last home game of the season with at least ten wins for the tenth straight season, but this team is hungry for more against a Mercer team that gave Auburn fits earlier this year. Saturday is senior day in Bryant-Denny Stadium, so come and support the seniors who have compiled an incredible career record of 50-4 with a chance to cement their legacy with these accomplishments: a 55-4 record, four straight SEC titles, and two national titles. Don’t miss a great opportunity to come cheer on JK Scott, Rashan Evans, Hootie Jones, Tony Brown, Da’Shawn Hand, Levi Wallace, and Shaun Dion Hamilton. The game kicks at 11:00 so come out and enjoy a nice day in Tuscaloosa afterward.
Green Bar does a great job of hosting great bands every weekend, and this Saturday night they present a three-piece homegrown Tuscaloosa band King’s German Legion that will blow your socks off. This blues-rock band puts you in the mind of the Black Keys with a heavy base and distorted, finger-blistering guitar work. Tickets are $5.00 at greenbarttown.com and the music starts at 10:30.
Moundville Archaeological Park and the Office of Archaeological Research are hosting an event this Saturday at Moundville Park! They invite you to come and help catalog and wash real artifacts that have been found recently at Moundville. You never know what you might get your hands on! The event runs from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Saturday. There will be light snacks and water provided. The event is free with park admission ($8).
Wind your weekend down by taking in one of the most famous American plays of all time presented by UA Theatre and Dance. August: Osage County is a story about one of the most dysfunctional families you will ever encounter. It will hopefully make your own family seem tame by comparison when you are sitting around the Thanksgiving table arguing about politics next week, and you’ll be glad to have the perspective. The show begins at 2 p.m. on Sunday at the Marian Gallaway Theatre on Alabama’s campus. You can get tickets here: https://theatre.ua.edu/productions/august-osage-county/
Alabama has rocketed off to a 2-0 start with wins over Memphis and Lipscomb. The Tide’s young freshmen look as good as advertised and could lead the Tide to a special season in 2017-2018. The next opponent in their way on their journey to the top is Alabama A&M. Collin Sexton and John Petty are two players you have to see to believe, and your next chance is this Friday night at 7:00. Don’t miss the best basketball squad Alabama has had in 13 years!
There are always fun events going on around town, so visit our event calendar at visittuscaloosa.xyz/events for a complete list.
Alabama football has a bye week and the weekend off, but the fun never stops in the one and only Tuscaloosa! There will be plenty of music, entertainment, and thrills for the kids to fill your Halloween weekend. You do not have to travel to catch a Rocky Horror show, we have one here! On Friday night, the Dexateens will be back in Tuscaloosa to bring the workingman’s blues consisting of high decibels of classic country, garage punk, and mainline folk. Furthermore, due to the success of the entertainment district over the course of the year, it will once again be in effect on Friday and Saturday from 9am-10pm each day. So get out, grab a drink, and explore the shops and art galleries Tuscaloosa has to offer!
On Friday night, Green Bar will host the triumphant return of Alabama rock-n-roll collective, the Dexateens. This “super group” has spanned Alabama’s punk and rock scenes over the last two decades while managing to maintain their own unique sound. The Dexateens are exactly what rock and roll has been missing, back to stake a claim on what they helped begin. These Tuscaloosa natives have returned to fill the void, gladly taking one city at a time, one venue at a time, one fan at a time. Make sure you do not miss this wholly Tuscaloosa band as they kick off an exciting weekend! Doors open at 8 p.m. and music starts around 10:30.
The Children’s Hands-On Museum always has something for the youngsters on Saturday, and this weekend is no different. In the spirit of Halloween children will be able to go on a Monster Walk Scavenger Hunt from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Children of all ages will have a blast following the clues to win the prize at the end!
Don’t worry, Saturdays are for the adults too. Do you like to run? Do you like to drink beer? If you answered yes to one or both of these questions, then we have an event for you! Run The Breweries will be taking place on Saturday, October 28th from 4:00-7:00 p.m. The event begins at Wagner’s Runwalk footwear store where they will be doing giveaways prior to the start of the run. Participants will begin by running to Band of Brothers Brewing Co. to sample some tasty craft brews. After spending some time at Band of Brothers, the run will continue on to Druid City Brewing Co. and eventually end at Black Warrior Brewing Co. If you are unable to make the start of the run you are more than welcome to join in at any of the participating brewery locations. Following the conclusion of the event, participants are welcome to hang around at Black Warrior — they have several dining options available for delivery. It is important you have your ID and coordinate a proper ride home for when you leave Black Warrior. Friday is National American Beer Day, what better way to celebrate than with the first official Brew Run in Tuscaloosa!
Another event happening on the night of the 28th is Pink Box Burlesque’s Rocky Horror Picture Show at the Bama Theatre. This will be their ninth year presenting the show, so it’s safe to say they have gotten pretty good at it. You won’t want to miss their tenth installment this Saturday night. Doors open at 7 p.m, so come dressed as Frank, Rocky, Janet, Magenta, or your favorite character for a costume contest at 8:30. The show starts at 9, which we’ll give you plenty of time to build up your antici….pation.
We have tons going on during the holiday season, make sure to check out our great upcoming events and follow us on our social media pages (@visittuscaloosa) for more announcements. Tell your friends and we can’t wait to see you around the One and Only Tuscaloosa!
Written by: Will Wyatt
In the One and Only Tuscaloosa, there are so many places to go and things to see. These 10 things are popular among the locals and won’t break the bank. So take a chance and try something new!
1. Children’s Hands-On Museum (CHOM)
This museum has been providing children with fun activities and events since 1984. There are three floors of fun for children of all ages. The Great Pumpkin Party and the Monster Walk Scavenger Hunt are two events that are happening soon. Admission is less than $10! CHOM is a great place to take the kids and enjoy a day of fun!
2. Paul W. Bryant Museum
This museum is a blast from the past! Check out over a hundred years of Crimson Tide memorabilia and football history. Visit the Paul W. Bryant museum to see what it takes to be “nothing but a winner.” Admission is $2 for adults and $1 for children.
3. Arboretum
If you’re a dog lover then the arboretum is the place for you! The arboretum is sixty acres of the great outdoors. Check out the dog park, community garden, as well as the hiking trails. The best part is that it is completely free!
4. The Waysider
Take a trip to Paul “Bear” Bryant’s favorite breakfast destination. It truly is the breakfast of champions. The restaurant is packed with decades of Alabama memorabilia. The Waysider offers made-from-scratch biscuits and gravy all for just under $3!
5. Homegrown Alabama Farmers Market
Edit: We regret to inform you his event will no longer happen. If you are interested in farmers’ markets in Tuscaloosa then check out the Tuscaloosa Farmers’ Market at the River Market.
6. Babes Donuts
A family-owned breakfast, brunch and coffee business located in Downtown Tuscaloosa. The menu features gourmet doughnuts unlike anything else you’ll find in town. Flavors include: bacon maple, sourdough, Reese’s Peanut Butter, Heath Bar sprinkle, Captain Crunch, Fruity Pebbles, S’mores, red velvet, blackberry cream cheese and others. Seasonal offerings can range from King Cakes during Mardi Gras to candied blood oranges. Stop by and grab a treat for under $10.
7. Steel City Pops
Nothing is better than a Steel City Popsicle on a hot Alabama summer day. They have many flavors to choose from, so there is a flavor for everyone. Flavors include: Arnold Palmer, Bosc Pear with Honey, Champagne White Tea, Cinnamon Apple, Cranberry Orange, Lime, Plum with Rosemary, Pomegranate, Strawberry Fig, Strawberry Lemonade, Avocado, Buttermilk, Carrot Cake, Chocolate, Coconut, Coffee, Maple Bacon, Bourbon, Pumpkin, Toasted Marshmallow, Vanilla Bean. All popsicles are $4.49 and under.
8. Black Warrior River
The Black Warrior River is absolutely stunning and the perfect place to go on a hot summer day. You can cast a line and catch some fish or bring your own boat and cruise the water. The Black Warrior is also perfect for paddle boarding or just floating down the river. Don’t feel like getting in the water? That’s fine because the Tuscaloosa River Walk runs along the river and offers beautiful scenery. It’s the perfect place to get some exercise or take your dog for a walk.
9. City Café
For decades, locals and students alike have enjoyed the homemade cooking served up at City Café. At lunchtime, this restaurant is packed with locals stopping in for a tasty meal at a reasonable price. Stop in and enjoy a meat and three for under $10. You won’t be disappointed, it’s just like mama makes it.
10. Gallette’s Yellowhammer
Stop by Gallette’s and sip on a Tuscaloosa favorite. People from all over the United States have enjoyed Yellowhammer’s from the One and Only Gallettes while in Tuscaloosa. The Yellowhammer is a staple on gameday at the University of Alabama. Their yellow cup is a popular accessory for the Crimson Tide fans walking around the quad. Visit Gallette’s and try one for yourself.
Written by Rachel Horton