There are tons of free things to do in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. The city can easily be a perfect getaway destination for families with kids and among friend groups. Solo travelers can also choose to explore each corner of the city those are packed with history, mix of cultures and many fun-packed outdoor activities under proper safety.
No matter where your interests lie, you can always find something to get excited about this trip. So, hit the road to make Tuscaloosa your next and one of the best weekend getaway destination to enjoy the beautiful landscape and a number of free attractions and activities with your close ones. Read on and explore the list of best free things to do in Tuscaloosa, AL. Hope all these places will fulfil all your expectations with which you are planning to visit this budget-friendly college town!
1. Capitol Park
Address: 2828 6th St, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Phone: (205) 248-5311
Hours: Sunday to Friday from 7 am to 10 pm; Saturday from 9 am to 12 pm.
Capitol Park on Childress Hill is a nice and well-maintained park. An afternoon stroll inside the park could be a very pleasing activity which will give you the opportunity to reconnect with your close ones from heart-to-heart.
There are lots of trees inside the park, making it a green and peaceful destination. The park adorns the city. And it is frequently used for rental purposes on special events, weddings and other occasions.
Boasting some historical significance, the ruins of the park are worth seeing. Also, it is one of the favourite spots for photo clicking opportunities, specially, during spring time. For kids, there are open spaces shaded with trees where they can indulge with fun games with new friends.
Moreover, the large gazebo offers an open view of the surrounding area. To be honest, here you can actually feel deep relaxation under fresh air and no unwanted noise will make you disturbed for sure!
2. Tuscaloosa Riverwalk
Address: 2710 Jack Warner Pkwy, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Phone: (205) 562-3220
Hours: Open everyday for 24 hours.
Tuscaloosa Riverwalk is truly a great place to go for relaxation. Located near downtown Tuscaloosa along the southern bank of the Black Warrior River, the riverwalk offers nicely paved walking and biking trails, and it is considered some of the most romantic places where you can reconnect with both nature and your significant other.
There are plenty of benches along the pathway, areas for picnicking, and playgrounds including a large parking space. Leashed dogs are allowed in the park areas. The clean environment and relaxing ambience of the entire place make this outdoor destination a real fun place among many hearts.
So, strolling along the river and enjoying nice views of the surrounding area is indeed one of the most romantic and free things to do in the city.
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3. Battle-Friedman House and Gardens
Address: 1010 Greensboro Ave, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Phone: (205) 758-2238
Battle-Friedman House is a nice building with the Federal and Grecian Revival architectural style. And the existing garden adjoining the building is the only remaining antebellum garden in the state. Many visitors make this historic tour their one of the best free experiences in Tuscaloosa.
The free attraction is open to the public for tours from Tuesday through Saturday, starting at 2:30 pm, without any charges though donations are always appreciated. Group tours are also available.
The sprawling lawn is perfect for weddings, parties and meetings. The multiple gardens throughout the land are perfect for strolling, photo clicking and enjoying the true essence of nature!
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4. Lake Nicol
One of the best spots for enjoying very relaxing outdoor recreational activities, Lake Nicol offers endless possibilities to all types of visitors. For anglers and bird watchers, the lake is a must-to-visit spot. And, many families plan their visit to this lake for enjoying stress-free and incredible afternoon with their near ones.
For offering dozens of outdoor activities with scenic views, Lake Nicol is the perfect spot for both locals and visitors. The lake is relatively small but still it’s popular for its easy accessibility and charming environment.
The most popular water activities are fishing, canoeing, paddleboarding and kayaking. And the swimming holes are great for beginners who are learning how to swim. The lake is also popular for birding trails and hiking trails.
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5. Kentuck Art Center
Address: 503 Main Ave, Northport, AL 35476
Phone: (205) 758-1257
Hours: Monday to Friday from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm; Saturday and Sunday from 12 to 4 pm.
Kentuck Art Center showcases the works of folk artists, painters and potters. Visitors love to explore the art center as it offers the opportunity to unleash their own creativity. There is actually a variety of different workshops you may participate in.
Going to the art center and exploring the museum gallery are undoubtedly one of the best free things to do in Tuscaloosa, specially, when you’re a hard-core creative being.
Kentuck Art Center is open seven days a week. So, get excited to find something interesting when you’re exploring the unique arts made by local artists. You may also purchase something made by various artists from the Gallery Shop.
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6. Farmers Market
Address: 1900 Jack Warner Pkwy, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Phone: (205) 248-5295
Hours: Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 5 pm; Saturday from 7 am to 12 pm; closed on Sunday.
Tuscaloosa Farmers Market or Tuscaloosa River Market was built in 2012. The market is located on the banks of the Black Warrior River. Exploring the market and then strolling along the river side is going to be one of the best free things to do in Tuscaloosa, AL.
The market is a year-round destination on every Saturday. You may visit the place from 7 AM through 12 PM. Must try different types of homemade foods and drinks. There are vendors selling very fresh local veggies and fruits.
The market is a dog-friendly place but the pets must be always in control. If any selling product is being touched by your dog, you must buy it. Onsite parking is free and open to the public. Handicapped parking is also available here.
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7. University of Alabama Arboretum
Address: 4801 Arboretum Way, Tuscaloosa, AL 35404
Phone: (205) 553-3278
Hours: Open daily from 8 am till sunset.
University of Alabama Arboretum is a part of the University of Alabama Museum. It is a must-to-visit place for flora and fauna lovers. The 60-acre Arboretum is located near Veterans Memorial Parkway, and is open daily to the public without paying any charges.
Get ready to explore the amazing 2.5-mile-long walking trails through piney woods and oak-hickory climax forest. Must explore the wildflower garden where you can see more than 250 species of plants.
An experimental garden and a children’s garden are also available for visitors to explore and enjoy.
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8. Sokol Park
Address: 5901 Watermelon Rd, Northport, AL 35473
Phone: (205) 562-3210
Hours: Open daily from 7:30 am to 8:30 pm.
Sokol Park is best known as a sports complex. Visitors come here to enjoy a variety of fun games which also include softball and baseball. For hikers, the park is one of the best places as there are hiking and mountain biking trails for all types of hikers.
There is so much more in this park. And you will also find a large dog park here where you can have a nice stroll with your pet.
Fun Family Things To Do In Tuscaloosa Under Reasonable Price
9. Paul W. Bryant Museum
Address: 300 Paul W Bryant Dr, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Phone: (205) 348-4668
Hours: Tuesday through Sunday from 9 am to 4pm; Closed on Monday.
Located on the campus of the University of Alabama, the Paul W. Bryant Museum was founded in 1985 and was open to the public in 1988 with the mission of spreading the history of University of Alabama football through the museum’s collection of artifacts and memorabilia in their popular exhibits.
Must visit the research room of the museum which allows visitors to watch the fascinating videos of Alabama’s games, both victories and defeats. Also, there is a Waterford Crystal Houndstooth Exhibit which commemorates the legendary coach Paul William “Bear” Bryant’s headwear.
10. Taco Casa
Taco Casa has been a family favorite in Tuscaloosa for almost 50 years. The unique restaurant is prominently known for serving hot, fresh and delicious food with prompt customer services.
So, whenever you’re exploring the nearby attractions, must visit any Taco Casa among their six locations. Though, you could particularly plan a perfect family get-together in Taco Casa as it’s been providing this service to many families and other groups to enjoy a memorable reconnection with close ones.
11. The Old Tavern Museum
Address: 500 Nicks Kids Ave, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Phone: (205) 758-2238
Hours: Tuesday through Saturday from 1:30 to 2:30 pm; Closed on Sunday and Monday.
The Old Tavern Museum celebrates the history of the city through interesting facts and providing tours which are available every Tuesday to Saturday at 1:30 pm.
Built in 1827 by William Dunton, The Old Tavern illustrates several French influences with the layout consisting of 6 rooms— three upstairs and three downstairs— with a narrow staircase connecting.
So, having a tour of this historic building is a fun thing to do with family. The tour will surely help you know how things were in Tuscaloosa in the 1800’s when the city was the state capital.
12. Bowlero Tuscaloosa
Address: 2001 McFarland Blvd E, Tuscaloosa, AL 35404
Phone: (205) 518-7781
Hours: Monday to Thursday from 12 to 11 pm; Friday and Saturday from 12 pm to 1 am; Sunday from 12 to 10 pm.
Bowlero Tuscaloosa is a premier family-fun destination that is renowned for offering not only endless opportunities to experience some of the best gaming fun with your crew, but you could seriously get the VIP vibes when you’re enjoying the state-of-the-art lanes or ordering incredible eats and signature drinks.
The facility gives everyone the chance to feel endless adventure and create some epic memories in their Tuscaloosa trip. So, must go to this bowling alley and discover the impressive games that excite you more!
13. Tuscaloosa Amphitheater
Address: 2710 Jack Warner Pkwy, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Phone: (205) 248-5280
Hours: Monday to Friday from 10 am to 5 pm; closed on Saturday and Sunday.
With the seating capacity of 7,470, Tuscaloosa Amphitheater is the largest outdoor theater in West Alabama. Visible from the nearby bridge, the venue is primarily used for music performances.
So, enjoying some of the best live performances in this one of the most popular Alabama amphitheaters would be a nice way to keep your family members enthralled at every moment!
14. Tuscaloosa Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse
Address: 2005 University Blvd, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Phone: (205) 731-0135
Hours: Monday to Friday from 8 am to 4 pm; closed on Saturday and Sunday.
The 127,000-square-foot Tuscaloosa Federal Building and Courthouse is a building in downtown Tuscaloosa, Alabama, and the structure the building possess is Greek Revival style.
A visit to this iconic historic landmark allows visitors to explore the stunning building itself, and inside the building there are paintings done by a nationally known artist, and through these art pieces you’ll get insight of the past of Tennessee and the nation as well.
15. Alabama Museum of Natural History
Address: 427 6th Ave, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487
Phone: (205) 348-7550
Hours: Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 4:30 pm; closed on Sunday.
Looking for a fun and unique attraction to explore with your kids and family in Tuscaloosa? Have a visit to Alabama Museum of Natural History. You and your crew will love a visit to this natural history museum.
Founded in 1831, it is the state’s only natural history museum locating in Smith Hall at the University of Alabama campus in Tuscaloosa.
Tons of events, programs, exhibits are conducted here through which you could learn about the natural diversity of Alabama from the Age of Dinosaurs and the Ice Age, especially, through the museum’s incredible exhibits. Your kids will definitely make some of the epic memories here.
Moreover, the Grand Gallery Exhibition Hall houses the State Fossil of Tuscaloosa, and it is the replica of a Basilosaurus Cetoides, an Eocene whale. So, a visit to this interesting place is undoubtedly some of the most fun things to do in Tuscaloosa with the family.
Things To Do In Tuscaloosa With Kids
16. Children’s Hands-on-Museum
Address: 2213 University Blvd, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Phone: (205) 349-4235
Hours: Monday to Saturday from 9:30 am to 5 pm; closed on Sunday.
Children’s Hands-on-Museum in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, is the perfect place for your kids and kids at heart where they can actually dive into the world of curiosity and creativity.
Many interesting attractions and activities abound in the museum, and unlike the name suggests, the museum is not only for kids but for all ages to get limitless fun with kids, parents and grandparents.
Boasting a half-acre outdoor play space, 150 exhibits and 10 beautiful and distinct galleries, this fun attraction allows every curious heart to get inspire, learn and grow every time they visit here.
17. Ladyelines Art Garage
Address: 2422 6th St, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Phone: (205) 523-5506
Hours: Tuesday to Friday from 11:30 am to 5 pm; Saturday from 10:30 am to 2:30 pm; closed on Sunday and Monday.
The best thing about Ladylines Art Garage is it allows your kids to make a mess while taking fun classes, learning new things, and creating according to their imagination. Don’t worry! Helpful staffs are always there to help kids and clean up the mess.
This unique Tuscaloosa attraction is a favorite among many local children. So, definitely check out this art studio with your kids to have a mix experience of fun, learn and uncover of new ideas!
18. Tuscaloosa Barnyard
Address: 11453 Turner Bridge Rd, Tuscaloosa, AL 35406
Phone: (205) 454-8841
Hours: Saturday from 10 am to 3 pm; Sunday from 1 to 5 pm; closed from Tuesday through Friday.
The farm in Tuscaloosa County, Alabama, is a great place to take your kids where they can get unique experience and learn new things. The family fun attraction Tuscaloosa Barnyard offers a large petting zoo, horseback riding, swim lessons and so much more!
The petting zoo is most popular among little hearts. Other activities are also engaging and engrossing to make the facility the perfect place to inspire interest to check out for your next family fun day trip!
19. Upsurge Trampoline Park
Address: 6200 McFarland Blvd E, Tuscaloosa, AL 35405
Phone: (205) 349-2141
Hours: Tuesday from 10 am to 2 pm; Thursday from 1 to 8 pm; Friday from 1 to 10 pm; Saturday from 10 am to 10 pm; Sunday from 2 to 8 pm; closed on Monday and Wednesday.
Upsurge Trampoline Park is a family entertainment amusement center in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. This is another one of the best places to take your kids to enjoy dozens of fun games, new friends and great food in the graceful, fun-packed city of Tuscaloosa.
Equipped with full indoor ropes course, a Ninja course, foam pit and everyone’s favorite a huge trampoline park, this indoor attraction attracts every adventure seeker and is open to all ages.
20. Lake Lurleen State Park
Address: 13226 Lake Lurleen Rd, Coker, AL 35452
Phone: (205) 339-1558
Hours: Open everyday from 7 am till 7 pm.
Lake Lurleen State Park is some of the best outdoor spots to visit in Tuscaloosa County, AL. Established in 1952, the state park is a popular recreation area in the state.
A family outing in the state park allows visitors to enjoy great swimming, boating and fishing opportunities, including a 23-mile-long trail that is available with hiking and mountain biking adventures.
The most stocked fish species in the lake include catfish, bream, largemouth bass and crappie. Another highlighting feature of Lake Lurleen State Park includes 91 campsites with proper facilities and equipment.
FAQs
1. Is Tuscaloosa worth visiting?
Visiting this historic southern city, Tuscaloosa, allows you to explore many historic museums, art galleries, green spaces, parks and restaurants. Also, Tuscaloosa is a budget-friendly city. So, there are many attractions which do not charge any admission fees. So, if you’re planning your next trip to this charming city, you’re in the right place.
2. Does Tuscaloosa have a downtown?
The downtown of Tuscaloosa is undoubtedly one of the best spots to have a nice strolling experience with your close ones and exploring the many opportunities the downtown has to offer. The main street of the downtown area is bustling with rich history, and to enjoy and experience the utmost of the area, have a walk from the Federal Courthouse to the Capitol Park.
3. What are the top attractions in Tuscaloosa Alabama?
Tuscaloosa offers many fine attractions to keep you engaged for the whole weekend/week. The popular Tuscaloosa attractions that are adorn by most of the locals and visitors include Paul W. Bryant Museum, Tuscaloosa Riverwalk, Children’s Hands-On Museum, Capitol Park and Mercedes-Benz US International Visitor Center. Still, there are many other exciting attractions and activities available to give everyone something special according to their taste.
