Tuscaloosa’s Outdoor Adventures: The Riverwalk
The Riverwalk is such a stunning trail that travels along to the Southern banks of the Black Warrior River. Whether you’re walking your dog, going for a jog, biking, or just admiring the view, the Riverwalk is a great place to be with nature and to appreciate the jaw-dropping beauty of Tuscaloosa.
This trail offers park areas that are all pet-friendly. The pathway includes benches, gazebos, picnic tables, and hammock-friendly trees that visitors can enjoy. There are several open areas for playing frisbee, picnicking, or relaxing in a hammock reading your favorite book. It is well lit with street lamps lining the trail with access to an emergency phone if an accident occurs.
The Riverwalk starts at Capitol Park on the western end, rounds the beautiful Tuscaloosa Amphitheater, and finishes on the east side of Manderson Landing. The length of the trail stretches 2.5 miles one way! Eventually, the Southern Riverwalk will meet up with the new Northern Riverwalk (Randall Family Park & Trailhead) and will extend into West Tuscaloosa as well. When the time comes, these additional miles will be well-traveled by all, that’s for sure!
One of the most iconic views on this trail is the historic train trestle bridge, which was once considered the country’s longest at 3,600 feet. This bridge is simply stunning, especially as the sun sets, reflecting on the river that flows through the heart of our community. Its picturesque views has been the perfecting setting for proposals, family photos, picnics, and more.
Along the pathway, which offers many shady areas for a break from the heat, are shops and restaurants for people to enjoy during their visit to the Riverwalk. The Shops at Riverwalk Place is home to Another Broken Egg Café, Bellagio Nails Spa, River, Market House Boutique, and more! Near the Amphitheater, you’ll also find Heritage House and Hotel Indigo. Along the trail, you’ll find the Visit Tuscaloosa Visitor Center as well as the Farmers Market at the Tuscaloosa River Market, where fresh, local goods and produce are sold every Saturday.
There is hardly anything that competes with the breath-taking scenery on a bright, sunny day or the majestic sunset views along the Riverwalk. In the morning, you often catch The University of Alabama Rowing Team practice for their next regatta as they race up and down the river. During the spring, summer, and fall months, one can enjoy the sounds of a concert coming from the Amphitheater too. Simply put – it’s the perfect place where all can come to gather, to exercise, to enjoy time alone or with family and friends. It truly is one of Tuscaloosa’s best outdoor adventures, conveniently located in Downtown.
For information about the gazebo rental, contact Tuscaloosa County Park and Recreation Authority at 205-562-3210.
