Alabama
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AI-Livingstone
26 Jul 2025
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Alabama Road Trip Itinerary

Alabama Road Trip Itinerary Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Alabama with this carefully curated road trip itinerary. Start your adventure in Birmingham, where the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute provides deep insight into the pivotal role the city played during the American civil rights movement. Travel east to the picturesque Cheaha State Park, home to Alabama’s highest peak and a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts.

Continue south to Montgomery, where the Civil Rights Memorial stands as a solemn tribute to those who fought for justice and equality. Experience Mobile’s maritime history at the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park, where you can explore the historic battleship and a variety of military aircraft. Finally, unwind at Gulf Shores Beach, known for its sugar-white sands and vibrant coastal atmosphere, perfect for swimming, relaxation, and water sports. This Alabama road trip balances culture, history, natural beauty, and leisure for an enriching travel experience.

Recommended Activities

  • Trip Point Pin1

    Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

    This museum offers powerful exhibits and stories about the American civil rights movement, making it an essential visit to learn about the nation's history and progress toward equality.
    Birmingham Civil Rights Institute
    Birmingham Civil Rights Institute
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    Birmingham Civil Rights Institute
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    Birmingham Civil Rights Institute
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    Birmingham Civil Rights Institute
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    Birmingham Civil Rights Institute
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    Birmingham Civil Rights Institute
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    Birmingham Civil Rights Institute
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  • Trip Point Pin2

    Cheaha State Park

    Home to Alabama's highest point, this park features breathtaking mountain views, scenic hikes, and opportunities for outdoor recreation, making it ideal for nature lovers.
    Cheaha State Park
    Cheaha State Park
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    Cheaha State Park
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    Cheaha State Park
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    Cheaha State Park
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    Cheaha State Park
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    Cheaha State Park
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    Cheaha State Park
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  • Trip Point Pin3

    Montgomery – Civil Rights Memorial

    This moving monument honors those who lost their lives in the struggle for civil rights, providing visitors with a place for reflection and education about the ongoing fight for justice.
    Montgomery – Civil Rights Memorial
    Montgomery – Civil Rights Memorial
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    Montgomery – Civil Rights Memorial
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    Montgomery – Civil Rights Memorial
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  • Trip Point Pin4

    Mobile – USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park

    This park is home to the historic USS Alabama battleship and other military aircraft, offering interactive tours and a unique opportunity to learn about American naval history.
    Mobile – USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park
    Mobile – USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park
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    Mobile – USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park
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    Mobile – USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park
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    Mobile – USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park
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  • Trip Point Pin5

    Gulf Shores Beach

    With its white sand beaches and clear Gulf waters, Gulf Shores is perfect for relaxation, water sports, and enjoying the vibrant coastal atmosphere.
    Gulf Shores Beach
    Gulf Shores Beach
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    Gulf Shores Beach
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    Gulf Shores Beach
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Restaurants

  • Restaurant Icon

    The Garage Cafe

    4.7
    $$$$

    The Garage Cafe

    Known for its eclectic decor and hidden garden atmosphere, this quirky bar and grill in Birmingham is filled with antiques and memorabilia.
    4.7
    $$$$
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    Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q

    4
    $$$$

    Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q

    A legendary spot in Decatur, famous for its unique white barbecue sauce and mouthwatering smoked meats.
    4
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    The Red Barn

    The Red Barn

    Located near Cheaha State Park, this rustic restaurant serves Southern classics in a quaint, barn-inspired setting.
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    Central

    4.6
    $$$$

    Central

    In Montgomery's historic downtown, Central pairs an industrial-chic vibe with creative Southern cuisine.
    4.6
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    The Gulf

    4.7
    $$$$

    The Gulf

    A beachfront, open-air eatery in Gulf Shores, constructed from shipping containers and offering fresh, local seafood.
    4.7
    $$$$
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Hotels

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    The Elyton Hotel

    4.5

    The Elyton Hotel

    Housed in a restored historic bank building in downtown Birmingham, this boutique hotel offers modern luxury mixed with original architectural charm.
    4.5
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    Cheaha State Park Chalets

    4.2

    Cheaha State Park Chalets

    Stay in mountaintop chalets within Alabama’s highest state park for breathtaking views and a rustic, nature-immersed experience.
    4.2
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    The Battle House Renaissance Mobile Hotel & Spa

    8.9

    The Battle House Renaissance Mobile Hotel & Spa

    A storied luxury hotel in Mobile dating back to 1852, known for its grand architecture and a famed domed lobby.
    8.9
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    The Union Station Hotel

    The Union Station Hotel

    Set in a beautifully restored former train station in Montgomery, offering historic ambiance with modern comfort.
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    The Lodge at Gulf State Park

    4.4

    The Lodge at Gulf State Park

    An eco-friendly hotel right on the Gulf Shores beach, designed for sustainability and stunning ocean views.
    4.4
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Local Events & Happenings

  • Event Icon

    The Devon Allman Blues Summit

    The Devon Allman Blues Summit

    The event will take place at Montgomery Performing Arts Centre in Montgomery.
    Map IconMontgomery Performing Arts Centre in Montgomery (42.63 mi)
    Calendar Icon11 Aug 2025
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    Mac Mcanally & Scotty Emerick: Margaritas & Memories

    Mac Mcanally & Scotty Emerick: Margaritas & Memories

    The event will take place at Montgomery Performing Arts Centre in Montgomery.
    Map IconMontgomery Performing Arts Centre in Montgomery (42.63 mi)
    Calendar Icon24 Aug 2025
    Website IconVisit Website
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  • Event Icon

    Jack Daniel's R&b And Southern Soul Music Fest

    Jack Daniel's R&b And Southern Soul Music Fest

    The event will take place at Montgomery Performing Arts Centre in Montgomery.
    Map IconMontgomery Performing Arts Centre in Montgomery (42.63 mi)
    Calendar Icon30 Aug 2025
    Website IconVisit Website
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    Collective Soul

    Collective Soul

    The event will take place at Montgomery Performing Arts Centre in Montgomery.
    Map IconMontgomery Performing Arts Centre in Montgomery (42.63 mi)
    Calendar Icon13 Sep 2025
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    Reckless Kelly

    Reckless Kelly

    The event will take place at Montgomery Performing Arts Centre in Montgomery.
    Map IconMontgomery Performing Arts Centre in Montgomery (42.63 mi)
    Calendar Icon19 Sep 2025
    Website IconVisit Website
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    Chris Botti

    Chris Botti

    The event will take place at Montgomery Performing Arts Centre in Montgomery.
    Map IconMontgomery Performing Arts Centre in Montgomery (42.63 mi)
    Calendar Icon25 Sep 2025
    Website IconVisit Website
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    St. Paul and the Broken Bones

    St. Paul and the Broken Bones

    The event will take place at Montgomery Performing Arts Centre in Montgomery.
    Map IconMontgomery Performing Arts Centre in Montgomery (42.63 mi)
    Calendar Icon26 Sep 2025
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Travel Gems from Reddit

  • Reddit Icon

    16 votes, 28 comments. Hi everybody! Im January next year, I plan on taking a road trip starting in Alabama and then heading west so Alabama

    Road Trip (Alabama Must-Dos)

    16 votes, 28 comments. Hi everybody! Im January next year, I plan on taking a road trip starting in Alabama and then heading west so Alabama

    /r/Alabama
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    Tuscaloosa - University of Alabama museums, including Gorgas House and nearby Moundville Monroeville, Alabama - To Kill A Mockingbird site Montgomery, Alabama - Shakespeare Th...

    Road Trip to Alabama

    Tuscaloosa - University of Alabama museums, including Gorgas House and nearby Moundville Monroeville, Alabama - To Kill A Mockingbird site Montgomery, Alabama - Shakespeare Th...

    /r/Alabama
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    20 votes, 51 comments. Me and my fiance (euros) are planning a road trip for our honeymoon and will be going through Alabama for a day or 2, Does

    Things you have to do in Alabama if coming through on a road trip?

    20 votes, 51 comments. Me and my fiance (euros) are planning a road trip for our honeymoon and will be going through Alabama for a day or 2, Does

    /r/Alabama
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    Hi Alabama! I'm visiting from Montreal, and have plans to pick up my long distance partner in Indianapolis for a big clockwise road trip around the south central states.

    - Passing through Alabama on a road trip; what can't we miss?

    Hi Alabama! I'm visiting from Montreal, and have plans to pick up my long distance partner in Indianapolis for a big clockwise road trip around the south central states.

    /r/Alabama
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    25 votes, 26 comments. Hey Everyone, So I'll be driving up from Miami and spending a week in Alabama. My plan is to drive around the state as much as

    Week long road trip to Alabama. Anything cool to see off the beaten path?

    25 votes, 26 comments. Hey Everyone, So I'll be driving up from Miami and spending a week in Alabama. My plan is to drive around the state as much as

    /r/Alabama
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Music for Your Journey

  • Music Icon

    Lynyrd Skynyrd - Sweet Home Alabama

    Lynyrd Skynyrd - Sweet Home Alabama

    An iconic Southern rock anthem perfect for cruising through Alabama.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit - Alabama Pines

    Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit - Alabama Pines

    A heartfelt song that captures the soulful spirit of Alabama's landscapes.
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    Ella Fitzgerald - Stars Fell On Alabama

    Ella Fitzgerald - Stars Fell On Alabama

    A classic jazz tune reflecting Alabama's natural beauty and romance.
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    Gladys Knight & The Pips - Midnight Train to Georgia

    Gladys Knight & The Pips - Midnight Train to Georgia

    Uplifting soul for those southern highway stretches.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Marvin Gaye - Ain't No Mountain High Enough

    Marvin Gaye - Ain't No Mountain High Enough

    Motivating and joyful, perfect for the scenic climbs near Cheaha State Park.
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    Charley Patton - Going To Move To Alabama

    Charley Patton - Going To Move To Alabama

    A bluesy travel song about journeying to Alabama.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Rascal Flatts - Life is a Highway

    Rascal Flatts - Life is a Highway

    An energetic road trip classic to keep spirits high.
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    Eagles - Take It Easy - 2013 Remaster

    Eagles - Take It Easy - 2013 Remaster

    A chill, breezy soundtrack for open Alabama roads.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Zac Brown Band - Toes

    Zac Brown Band - Toes

    Fun, beachy vibe for approaching Gulf Shores.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Alabama - Mountain Music

    Alabama - Mountain Music

    Celebrates Southern roots and outdoor adventures, fitting for Alabama’s landscapes.
    Listen on Spotify
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