15 Best Things to Do in Southside (AL)

Nestled in the heart of Alabama, the charming town of Southside might just be the unexpected gem you’ve been searching for. Forget what you think you know about small Southern towns; Southside offers a captivating blend of outdoor adventure, family-friendly fun, historical intrigue, and genuine local charm. Imagine waking up to the scent of pine trees, spending your day exploring cascading waterfalls, playing a round of golf on championship courses, or diving into the thrill of NASCAR.

This is a place where natural beauty meets Southern hospitality, providing a perfect escape for every type of traveler. To truly experience Southside, you’ll want to have a car, as many of its treasures are spread out, inviting you to discover scenic routes. The best times to visit are during the mild spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) months, when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities and the foliage paints a stunning backdrop. Get ready to uncover the hidden delights and vibrant spirit that make Southside, Alabama, an unforgettable destination.

James D. Martin Wildlife Park

Prepare to immerse yourself in nature’s tranquility at this sprawling wildlife sanctuary, a true haven for outdoor enthusiasts. You will discover diverse ecosystems, from dense woodlands to serene wetlands, making it a prime spot for birdwatching, photography, and peaceful strolls. The park features well-maintained trails that wind through varied terrain, offering glimpses of native flora and fauna. It’s not uncommon to spot deer, various bird species, and perhaps even a playful squirrel as you explore.

What makes this park unique is its dedication to conservation and education, providing a natural classroom for all ages. It’s a fantastic place to reconnect with the environment and enjoy a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle. Families will love the open space for kids to run and explore, while solo travelers and couples can find peaceful solitude on the less-trafficked paths. Historically, this land has been preserved for its ecological significance, offering a glimpse into Alabama’s natural heritage.

Take the Kids to Imagination Place

Spark your children’s curiosity and creativity at this vibrant children’s museum, an absolute must for families visiting Southside. Imagination Place is designed to be a hands-on learning environment where kids can explore, discover, and play in a safe and stimulating setting. You will find interactive exhibits ranging from a pretend grocery store and a construction zone to an art studio and a water play area.

Each exhibit is crafted to engage young minds and encourage imaginative play, helping children learn about the world around them through direct experience. What makes it special is its focus on fostering problem-solving skills and social interaction, making learning genuinely fun. This attraction is perfect for families with toddlers and elementary-aged children, providing hours of entertainment regardless of the weather. It’s a wonderful way to beat the heat on a summer day or find indoor fun when the weather isn’t cooperating.

Play a Round at Twin Bridges Golf Club

For golf enthusiasts, a round at Twin Bridges Golf Club is an absolute must-do. This championship course, designed by renowned architect Gene Bates, offers a challenging yet enjoyable experience for players of all skill levels. You will navigate beautifully manicured fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and pristine greens, all set against the scenic backdrop of the Coosa River.

The course is known for its clever layout, requiring thoughtful shot selection and offering diverse hole designs. What makes Twin Bridges unique is its commitment to maintaining top-tier conditions, ensuring a high-quality golfing experience every time you visit. It’s perfect for solo golfers looking to test their skills, couples enjoying a leisurely game, or groups of friends seeking a competitive outing. The course also boasts a rich local reputation as one of the finest public courses in the region, drawing players from across the state.

Mingle with Locals at Back Forty Beer Company

Dive into the vibrant local scene and mingle with the friendly folks of Southside at Back Forty Beer Company. This popular brewery is more than just a place to grab a drink; it’s a community hub where you can enjoy handcrafted beers, delicious food, and a lively atmosphere. You will find a wide array of beers on tap, from crisp lagers to hoppy IPAs and rich stouts, all brewed on-site.

Their menu often features elevated pub fare, perfectly complementing their brews. What makes Back Forty special is its commitment to local ingredients and its welcoming, laid-back vibe, often hosting live music, trivia nights, and other community events. It’s an ideal spot for couples looking for a fun night out, groups of friends catching up, or solo travelers wanting to experience authentic local culture. The brewery has played a significant role in revitalizing the local craft beer scene, becoming a beloved institution.

Noccalula Falls

Prepare to be captivated by the majestic beauty of Noccalula Falls, a stunning 90-foot waterfall that plunges into a gorge below. This iconic natural wonder is the centerpiece of a beautiful park, offering more than just scenic views. You can walk behind the curtain of the waterfall (weather permitting), explore hiking trails that wind through the gorge, and even ride a miniature train that circles the park.

The park also features a petting zoo, pioneer village, and botanical gardens, making it a full day’s adventure for families. What makes Noccalula Falls truly special is its accessibility and the legend of Princess Noccalula, adding a layer of poignant history to its natural grandeur. It’s a perfect destination for families, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a blend of natural beauty and recreational activities. The sheer power and beauty of the falls are mesmerizing, especially after a good rain.

Talladega National Forest

Escape into the vast wilderness of Talladega National Forest, an immense natural playground that promises adventure and serenity. You will find miles of pristine hiking trails, opportunities for camping, fishing, and scenic drives through ancient forests. The forest is characterized by its rolling hills, diverse wildlife, and the tranquil beauty of its unspoiled landscapes.

What makes Talladega National Forest unique is its sheer scale and the variety of experiences it offers, from challenging backpacking trips to leisurely picnics by a stream. It’s an ideal destination for outdoor adventurers, nature photographers, and anyone looking to unplug and immerse themselves in the great outdoors. Birdwatchers will delight in the numerous species, and history buffs might appreciate its past as a source of timber and its role in early American settlement. Remember to check local regulations for specific activities like hunting or fishing licenses.

Silver Lakes Golf Course

Another gem for golf enthusiasts, Silver Lakes Golf Course offers an exceptional experience as part of the renowned Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. You will play on one of the most challenging and picturesque courses in the state, featuring 36 holes spread across three championship nines and a short course. Each nine offers distinct characteristics, from open, links-style holes to those winding through dense woodlands, all boasting impeccable conditioning and stunning views.

What makes Silver Lakes truly unique is its reputation for demanding play and its beautiful natural setting alongside the Talladega National Forest. It’s a must-visit for serious golfers looking for a top-tier challenge, but also offers a more relaxed short course for those honing their skills. The course is a testament to the vision of Robert Trent Jones Sr., bringing world-class golf to Alabama.

Little Bridge Marina

Experience the serene beauty of Weiss Lake, often called “The Crappie Capital of the World,” from Little Bridge Marina. This charming marina is your gateway to boating, fishing, and enjoying the vast recreational opportunities on the lake. You can rent boats, launch your own, or simply relax by the water and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

The marina also offers supplies for fishing and boating, making it a convenient stop for all your aquatic adventures. What makes Little Bridge Marina special is its friendly, laid-back vibe and its prime location for accessing some of the best fishing spots on Weiss Lake. It’s perfect for families looking for a day on the water, fishing enthusiasts, or anyone who enjoys lakeside tranquility. The history of Weiss Lake itself is tied to the Coosa River, created by a dam, making it a vital recreational and ecological resource for the region.

Talladega Superspeedway

Feel the roar of the engines and the thrill of speed at Talladega Superspeedway, one of NASCAR’s most iconic and fastest tracks. Even if you’re not visiting on a race day, you can still experience the excitement through tours of the track and the International Motorsports Hall of Fame. You will get to walk the legendary track, visit Victory Lane, and see the garages where racing legends prepare their machines.

The Hall of Fame celebrates motorsports history, showcasing legendary vehicles and memorabilia. What makes Talladega unique is its sheer size and its reputation for incredibly close, high-speed racing, often resulting in dramatic finishes. It’s a bucket-list item for motorsports fans, but also fascinating for anyone interested in American sports culture and engineering. The speedway has been a cornerstone of Alabama’s sporting identity since its opening in 1969.

Browse the World’s Longest Yard Sale

Prepare for a treasure hunt unlike any other as you browse the World’s Longest Yard Sale, also known as the 127 Corridor Sale. This incredible event stretches for hundreds of miles, with a significant portion running through Alabama, including areas accessible from Southside. You will discover an astounding array of items, from antique furniture and vintage collectibles to handmade crafts and quirky knick-knacks.

It’s a truly unique cultural phenomenon, attracting bargain hunters and curious onlookers from all over the world. What makes this yard sale special is its sheer scale and the diverse, often unexpected, finds you can unearth. It’s perfect for avid collectors, antique lovers, and anyone who enjoys the thrill of the hunt. This annual event has grown into a major attraction, fostering community spirit and offering a glimpse into rural American life.

Maraella Winery

Indulge your senses with a visit to Maraella Winery, a delightful escape into the world of Alabama winemaking. You will enjoy guided tours of the vineyards and production facilities, followed by tastings of their handcrafted wines. Maraella is known for producing a variety of wines, from dry reds and whites to sweeter fruit wines, often incorporating locally sourced fruits.

What makes this winery unique is its serene setting amidst rolling hills and its dedication to crafting quality wines with a Southern touch. It’s a wonderful destination for couples seeking a romantic outing, groups of friends enjoying a leisurely afternoon, or solo travelers looking to learn about viticulture. The winery embodies a growing trend of Southern winemaking, showcasing the region’s agricultural potential and entrepreneurial spirit.

Gadsden Mall

For a dose of retail therapy or a convenient stop for essentials, the Gadsden Mall offers a classic American shopping experience. You will find a variety of national retail chains, local boutiques, and a food court, providing options for every shopper. The mall serves as a central hub for the community, offering a comfortable, climate-controlled environment for shopping, dining, and entertainment.

What makes Gadsden Mall special is its role as a consistent gathering place for locals, providing familiar comforts and a slice of everyday life in the area. It’s a great option for families needing to run errands, teenagers looking for a hangout spot, or anyone wanting to escape the elements for a few hours. While not a unique tourist attraction, it’s a practical stop that showcases the typical suburban American experience.

Dive Land Park

Dive into adventure at Dive Land Park, a unique recreational facility centered around a spring-fed quarry, perfect for scuba diving and snorkeling. You will discover an underwater world filled with fascinating submerged objects like planes, boats, and even a school bus, creating an exciting playground for divers of all levels. The clear, cool water offers excellent visibility, making it an ideal spot for training or just exploring.

What makes Dive Land Park truly special is its unique concept as an inland dive site, providing a safe and controlled environment for underwater exploration away from the ocean. It’s a fantastic destination for certified divers, those looking to get certified, or snorkelers wanting a glimpse of the underwater sights. The park has developed a reputation as a premier diving destination in the Southeast, attracting enthusiasts from across the region.

The Fisherman’s Restaurant

Savor the flavors of the South with a visit to The Fisherman’s Restaurant, a local institution renowned for its fresh seafood and classic Southern dishes. You will enjoy generous portions of fried catfish, shrimp, oysters, and other regional favorites, served in a casual, family-friendly atmosphere. The restaurant prides itself on its fresh ingredients and time-honored recipes, providing a truly authentic dining experience.

What makes The Fisherman’s Restaurant special is its consistent quality, friendly service, and its long-standing reputation as a go-to spot for delicious, comforting meals. It’s perfect for families, groups, or solo travelers looking for a hearty and satisfying meal. The restaurant has been a beloved part of the Southside community for decades, a testament to its enduring appeal and local charm.

Day Trip to Birmingham, Alabama

Expand your Southside adventure with an exciting day trip to Birmingham, Alabama’s largest city, just about an hour’s drive away. You will discover a vibrant urban center brimming with world-class attractions, diverse culinary experiences, and significant historical sites. Explore the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, stroll through the beautiful Birmingham Botanical Gardens, or discover unique shops and eateries in the revitalized Avondale or Five Points South neighborhoods.

What makes Birmingham a perfect day trip is its rich history, particularly its pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement, alongside its modern resurgence as a cultural and culinary hotspot. It’s ideal for history buffs, foodies, and anyone looking for a dynamic city experience to complement their Southside stay. Birmingham offers a fascinating contrast to the relaxed pace of Southside.

Plan Your Visit

As you can see, Southside, Alabama, is far more than just a dot on the map; it’s a vibrant tapestry of natural beauty, thrilling adventures, and genuine Southern charm waiting to be explored. From the cascading majesty of Noccalula Falls to the serene fairways of its championship golf courses, and the unique local flavors found in its breweries and restaurants, this region offers an incredibly diverse array of experiences. Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly getaway, a peaceful retreat into nature, or an adrenaline-fueled escape, Southside delivers.

You’ll find that a car is your best friend here, allowing you the freedom to discover every hidden gem at your own pace. Start planning your unforgettable journey to Southside today, keeping our budget tips in mind to tailor your perfect trip. This charming corner of Alabama promises memories that will last a lifetime, inviting you to return again and again.