Tuscaloosa Travel Guide
Planning on making a trip to Tuscaloosa? Whether you are coming for a college tour, game day, or even just need ideas of what to do, I have the perfect list for you. After living in Tuscaloosa for almost four years, I definitely have my favorites and am so excited to share them with you!
Where to Stay:
Hotel Indigo: I love the modern vibe of this hotel as well as how close this is to the river. There is also a rooftop bar that is perfect for enjoying those beautiful Tuscaloosa sunsets.
Embassy Suites Downtown Tuscaloosa has a prime location. With it being located downtown, it is within walking distance of so many shops and restaurants!
Where to Eat:
Breakfast
Strange Brew has the perfect outdoor seating to enjoy a coffee. A couple of my favorite drinks they offer are the sour gummy bear drink and the lavender lemonade!
Heritage House is one of my favorite places to get coffee and study. They also have amazing pastries.
Another Broken Egg is a cute place to take parents or have a nice breakfast with friends. It sits right on the river, which gives an amazing view. It also has a large variety of food, perfect for everyone!
Turbo is so perfect for a relaxing morning! It has such a calming environment, with plenty of seating and lots of natural light. I’ve recently been loving their matcha lattes!
Brunch
Brick and Spoon is the go-to place for a build-your-own Bloody Mary! They also have amazing omelets and if you are looking for a sweet dessert at the end I recommend getting the banana foster.
Sweet Home Food Bar has such a fun, southern brunch vibe and is perfect for an outing with the girls. Their Crunchy French Toast tastes so amazing, especially if you add the berries to them!
Lunch
Rama Jama is the perfect lunch spot to get the full experience of an Alabama fan. I love going here for mimosas with friends!
Veganish has great options for those with specialty diets. Their Chunky Monkey smoothie was one of my favorites from them.
Taco Mama is one of my favorite places to grab a quick and fun lunch. They have such a good selection of tacos and burritos!
Blenz is the perfect place to grab a healthy and yummy afternoon snack. They make the best smoothie bowls with lots of fresh fruit and toppings! I love getting one after my classes.
Dinner
Avenue Pub has such a fun and classy vibe. This is the perfect place for a family dinner! They also have outdoor seating for those warm, summer nights.
So Cal is a unique twist on Mexican food. With fresh food and amazing margaritas, it’s a great place for Taco Tuesday! I loved their Malibu salad.
Urban Bar and Kitchen is one of my favorite places to take the family. Their traditional southern meals, as well as some unique menu items, create a variety of options to pick from.
Forte is one place I love going for a nice dinner. Their lamb chop and filet are my favorites. They also have amazing, fresh oysters!
Drinks
Wine Market is perfect for a drink with the girls! I love how they offer wine flights for those who aren’t familiar with wine.
Session has so many specialty cocktails to choose from! Each month they have one cocktail that donates proceeds to a special cause. My favorite drink from there is the Ring My Bell cocktail.
Nocturnal Tavern has a darker ambiance but has amazing drinks. I love to end my nights here because of the laid-back vibe.
Dessert
Yogurt Mountain is your classic frozen yogurt place. You can choose your own toppings to make the perfect frozen yogurt.
Baked Bear has made-to-order ice cream sandwiches. You get to choose your cookies as well as what kind of ice cream you would like. The options are endless!
What to Do:
True 40 has the best workouts and some of the best instructors. I love how the workouts are only 60 minutes, which is perfect to fit into a busy schedule.
If you’re visiting Tuscaloosa during the springtime, the farmer’s market is a perfect Saturday morning activity. From fresh fruits and veggies to local artisan crafts, it has something for everyone!
If you’re into history, the UA historical markers are a fun way to spend an afternoon! These markers are scattered all over the campus and describe UA’s rich past.
Tuscaloosa is known for being the place where legends are made, so attending a football or baseball game is a must! Sporting events have such an incredible and fun atmosphere.
The Tuscaloosa Riverwalk is the perfect place for an afternoon picnic. The river is so calming and pretty! I love how scenic the trails are.
The Tuscaloosa Amphitheater has so many live concerts year-round! From country to rock and roll and everything in between, it really provides a great option for a fun night. It’s located near downtown Tuscaloosa, so grabbing dinner before your concert is super easy!
Where to Shop:
South Boutique
Lou and Co
Fabrik
Leather and Lace
Golden Hanger
Swag
The Pants Store
I hope this helps you have the best time in Tuscaloosa. Let me know if you go to any of these places and what was your favorite!
