• What is special about Gadsden, Alabama?
    • Once an important shipping center in the 19th century, Gadsden sits along the Coosa River and is a great city to explore on a weekend trip.
  • What are the top attractions in Gadsden?
    • Visit the stunning Noccalula Falls Park, where you can see a 90-foot waterfall, explore caves, and wander through the botanical gardens.
    • Take a romantic walk along Neely Henry Lake and enjoy the peaceful scenery.
    • Tour the Gadsden Museum of Art to explore local and regional art collections.
  • What are the best things to do in Gadsden with kids?
    • Take children to the Mary G. Hardin Center for Cultural Arts, which features a fun and educational children’s museum.
    • Enjoy music and dance performances that are entertaining for the whole family.

Noccalula Falls Park

Walk along scenic trails and see a stunning 90-foot waterfall.

Noccalula Falls Park

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  • What is Noccalula Falls Park & Campground?
    • One of the top attractions in Gadsden, the Noccalula Falls Park & Campground is a 250-acre public park famous for its stunning 90-foot high waterfall.
    • The land was gifted to the city to create a park where the public could enjoy the waterfall and its beautiful surroundings.
  • What can visitors explore at the park?
    • Visitors can hike the gorge trail, which leads past historical and natural sights.
    • Along the trail, you will find caves, a pioneer homestead, Civil War carvings, an old abandoned dam, and an aboriginal fort.
  • What other attractions are at Noccalula Falls Park?
    • The park is home to the historic 1899 Gilliland-Reese Covered Bridge, a scenic landmark.
    • Families can enjoy a mini-golf course and a petting zoo for children.
    • The Noccalula Falls Botanical Gardens features 25,000 azaleas, creating a colorful and peaceful setting.

Mary G. Hardin Center for Cultural Arts

Explore interactive exhibits and admire regional art collections.

Mary G. Hardin Center for Cultural Arts

© Mary G. Hardin Center for Cultural Arts

  • What is the Mary G. Hardin Center for Cultural Arts?
  • What organizations are based at the center?
    • Imagination Place – A fun and interactive children’s museum.
    • Etowah Youth Orchestras – A group composed of talented students from several Gadsden City Schools.
    • Gadsden Community School for the Arts – Provides music and visual arts classes for students.
    • Downtown Dance Conservatory – Offers dance instruction for students at varying levels of experience.
  • What exhibits and events are hosted at the center?
    • The center features temporary exhibits such as:
    • “The Art of Andy Warhol” – A showcase of works by the famous pop artist.
    • “Dinosaurs Alive” – A fascinating exhibit for dinosaur enthusiasts.
    • The venue also hosts live music concerts in its New Orleans-style outdoor courtyard.
  • What is the contact information for the Mary G. Hardin Center for Cultural Arts?
    • Address: 501 Broad Street, Gadsden, Alabama
    • Phone: 256-543-2787

Neely Henry Lake

Go boating or fishing on this peaceful, scenic reservoir.

Neely Henry Lake

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  • What is Neely Henry Lake?
    • Neely Henry Lake was formed in 1966 when the Alabama Power Company built the 57-foot high Neely Henry Dam to generate hydroelectric power and provide recreation.
  • Who is Neely Henry Lake named after?
    • The lake and dam are named after H. Neely Henry, a senior executive at Alabama Power.
  • What are the lake's key features?
    • The lake covers 11,200 acres and has a shoreline of 339 miles.
    • It serves multiple purposes, including power generation, providing drinking water, and supporting a fish and wildlife habitat.
  • What types of fish can be caught in Neely Henry Lake?
    • Fishing is very popular, and anglers can catch species such as:
    • Bluegill
    • Largemouth and striped bass
    • Crappie
    • Catfish
    • And many more!
  • What other activities are available at Neely Henry Lake?
    • Visitors can enjoy biking along scenic trails.
    • Camping opportunities are available for those who want to stay overnight.
    • The lake is a great spot for bird watching, with diverse wildlife to observe.

Gadsden Museum of Art

Visit rotating exhibits showcasing local and contemporary artists.

Gadsden Museum of Art

© Gadsden Museum of Art

  • What is the Gadsden Museum of Art?
    • The Gadsden Museum of Art is a cultural institution dedicated to art and local history.
    • It was founded in 1963 when the mayor of Gadsden provided space for the museum in Gadsden’s Convention Hall.
  • When did the museum open its first exhibit?
    • The museum’s first exhibit opened in 1965.
    • It relocated several times before settling in its current location in downtown Gadsden.
  • How is the museum organized?
    • The museum consists of three galleries, each with a distinct focus:
    • First Floor Gallery: Houses large shows and exhibitions.
    • Second Floor (Grand Gallery): Features exhibits that often display objects from the museum’s permanent collection.
    • Third Floor Gallery: Showcases artifacts, photographs, and objects related to local history.
  • Where is the Gadsden Museum of Art located?
    • Address: 515 Broad Street, Gadsden, Alabama
    • Phone: 256-546-7365

The Factory

Enjoy arcade games, trampoline fun, and laser tag with kids.

The Factory

© The Factory

  • What is The Factory?
    • The Factory is an indoor activity center in Gadsden featuring arcades, laser tag, batting cages, foam pits, and trampolines.
  • What is the history of The Factory?
    • The building originally functioned as an actual factory in the 1980s, filled with tools and machinery.
    • In 2013, the son of the original owner purchased the building and transformed it into a giant play center for both children and adults.
  • What activities are available at The Factory?
    • “Open Jump” – A massive 10,000-square-foot trampoline area with interconnected trampolines.
    • “Si-Fi Safari Galactic Laser Course” – A high-tech laser tag game with immersive features.
    • “Flight Simulator” – Allows visitors to take control of a simulated aircraft for a thrilling experience.
  • Does The Factory host special events?
    • Yes! Special events include:
    • “Teen Night” – A fun night designed specifically for teenagers.
    • “Munchkin Jump” – A special play session for younger children.
    • The Factory also offers field trips and birthday party packages.
  • Where is The Factory located?
    • Address: 100 Thomas Drive, Gadsden, Alabama
    • Phone: 256-312-8974

Twin Bridges Golf Club

Play a relaxing round of golf on a scenic course.

Twin Bridges Golf Club

© Twin Bridges Golf Club

  • What is Twin Bridges Golf Club?
  • Who designed the golf course?
    • The course was designed by Gene Bates and spans 6,800 yards.
    • It is a par 72 course, making it suitable for golfers of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced players.
  • What makes Twin Bridges Golf Club unique?
    • The course is set along the scenic Coosa River, offering breathtaking views.
    • Golfers can enjoy the well-manicured Bermuda fairway and bent grass greens, which are maintained to the highest standards.
    • Players will also have the opportunity to see the natural beauty and interesting wildlife along the river.
  • What practice facilities are available?
    • The club features several hitting stations for players to refine their swings.
    • There is also an 8,000-square-foot putting green to help golfers perfect their short game.
  • Does Twin Bridges Golf Club offer golf lessons?
    • Yes, the club provides various types of instruction, including:
    • Group lessons for those who prefer to learn in a social setting.
    • Private instruction tailored to individual needs.
    • Clinics designed to help golfers improve specific aspects of their game.
  • Where is Twin Bridges Golf Club located?
    • Address: 901 Riverbend Dr, Gadsden, Alabama
    • Phone: 256-549-4866

Imagination Place

Let kids explore hands-on exhibits and creative play areas.

Imagination Place

© Imagination Place

  • What is Imagination Place?
    • Imagination Place is a children’s museum that is part of the Mary G. Hardin Center for Cultural Arts.
    • It is located on Broad Street in Gadsden, Alabama.
  • What age group is Imagination Place designed for?
    • The museum is designed for children aged two through ten.
    • It provides fun and educational activities that engage young minds in creative learning.
  • Why should families visit Imagination Place?
    • If you are looking for fun things to do in Gadsden with kids, this is a great place to visit.
    • It offers an immersive and interactive environment where children can learn through play.
  • What is KidsTown USA?
    • KidsTown USA is the museum’s permanent exhibit.
    • It features scaled-down versions of real-world locations, including:
    • A construction pit
    • A farm
    • A grocery store
    • A medical clinic
    • A sunken pirate ship
    • And much more!
  • Are there any special attractions for kids?
    • Children can take a ride on the Imagination Express from the train station.
    • They can also jump on the back of an ambulance for a playful rescue adventure.
  • Where is Imagination Place located?
    • Location: Mary G. Hardin Center for Cultural Arts, Gadsden, Alabama
    • Phone: 256-543-2787

James D. Martin Wildlife Park Trail

Walk along peaceful trails and look at native birds and wildlife.

James D. Martin Wildlife Park Trail

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  • What is the James D. Martin Wildlife Park Trail?
  • How can visitors explore the park?
    • Visitors can observe wildlife by walking along the shoreline trail.
    • The park also features a series of boardwalks built over the surface of the lake.
  • What unique features do the boardwalks provide?
    • The boardwalks offer access to wooded islands located at the mouth of Black Creek.
  • What type of terrain does the park have?
    • The park’s terrain includes:
    • Wooded borders for shaded walking areas.
    • Mudflats that provide a rich ecosystem for wildlife.
    • Wetlands, which serve as a habitat for diverse species.
  • What kind of wildlife can be seen at the park?
    • The park is home to a variety of wildlife, especially birds.
    • Some species that can be spotted include:
    • Bald eagles
    • Several types of egrets
    • Herons
    • Ospreys

Lookout Mountain Parkway

Drive through breathtaking mountain scenery, especially vibrant in fall.

Lookout Mountain Parkway

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  • What is the Lookout Mountain Parkway?
  • What makes this drive special?
    • The parkway offers a scenic journey through three U.S. states, allowing visitors to enjoy breathtaking views.
    • Along the drive, travelers can see canyons, national and state parks, waterfalls, and charming towns and villages.
  • Where does the drive begin?
    • The drive begins at Noccalula Falls Park on top of Lookout Mountain in Gadsden, Alabama.
  • What attractions can be found along the Lookout Mountain Parkway?
    • DeSoto State Park: A 5,000-acre park featuring hiking trails and camping areas.
    • Little River Canyon National Park: Known for its canyons and beautiful waterfalls.
    • Shady Grove Dude Ranch: An 800-acre ranch offering outdoor adventures.
    • Cloudmont Ski & Golf Resort: A unique destination where visitors can ski in the winter and golf in warmer months.
  • What is special about Mentone?
    • Mentone is a historic town known for its mineral springs.
    • Since the late 1800s, it has been a popular health resort destination.


Best Time to Visit Places to Stay Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming flowers. Hampton Inn Gadsden – A comfortable stay near the Coosa River. Visit Noccalula Falls Park – Explore hiking trails and see the stunning 90-foot waterfall.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and great for water activities. Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Gadsden – A modern hotel with great amenities. Go boating or fishing on Neely Henry Lake – Enjoy a relaxing day on the water.
Fall (September-November) – Cooler weather and beautiful autumn scenery. Best Western Plus Gadsden Hotel & Suites – A budget-friendly stay with easy access to local attractions. Attend First Friday in Downtown Gadsden – Experience live music, food vendors, and local shopping.
Winter (December-February) – Cool temperatures and festive events. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Gadsden – A cozy and convenient option for winter travelers. Visit the Gadsden Museum of Art – Explore exhibits showcasing regional artists and history.

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