Northeast Alabama, encompassing Gadsden, Fort Payne, and more, is a true gem of the South thanks to bountiful natural resources and a lower cost of living. The Zachos Team loves this area because of its outdoor amenities like rock climbing, kayaking, and more. Today we’d like to share a few of the best attractions in the area.
How far is Gadsden from Birmingham and Huntsville? Gadsden is about an hour drive from Birmingham, and about an hour and a half drive from Huntsville. Its closeness to both key cities makes the northeastern Alabama area function as a hub for all that the center of the state has to offer as well.
Noccalula Falls
Arguably the biggest draw of Gadsden, Noccalula Falls is an amazing attraction of the state. A 90 foot waterfall positioned over a wide cave, the falls are an incredible sight no matter what angle you see them from. The falls and surrounding greenspace are free to visit, but a small admission fee will allow you access to an animal enclosure, mini golf, a botanical garden, and many other draws to round out your day. Enjoy the more front-facing areas of the park, or explore the miles of trail systems that run through lush woods and gentle streams. Best of all, this area is just minutes off the highway, making it easy to find and access.
Downtown Gadsden
Downtown Gadsden offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions in a walkable setting. Visit many assorted eateries like Rock and Roll Sushi or Back Forty Brewing for a bite or a drink, visit the Gadsden Museum of Art to see a variety of rotating exhibits. If you’re lucky, you might even get to step inside the Pitman Theater, a former performing venue that now holds a number of private events. Right between the Coosa River and Noccalula Falls, this area is situated centrally between a number of other attractions as well.
Cherokee Rock Village
Positioned above a magnificent view, the soaring formations of Cherokee Rock Village are truly a sight to behold. A well-known rock climbing destination as well as a filming location of the movie Failure to Launch, Cherokee Rock Village allows you to explore otherworldly chasms and beautiful vistas. Located just a half hour drive from Gadsden, it’s well worth the day trip.
Weiss Lake
Situated right next to the Georgia border, Weiss Lake is known as the “Crappie Capital of the world.” Fishing, boating, and any other classic summer activities you can think of are fair game here. With its remote location and beautiful views of the distant mountains, Weiss Lake is the perfect getaway destination to disconnect for a while. Read our other blog about Weiss Lake here to find out more about the area and its amenities.
Little River Canyon
Yet another striking waterfall feature of the area, Little River Canyon is a well-known park and hiking spot just outside of Fort Payne. Visit the Jacksonville State University Little River Canyon Center for park info and history, or venture off on your own down numerous trails, swimming holes, and of course waterfall views. Just outside of the canyon, don’t miss Mushroom Rock, a striking formation smack dab in the middle of the road, and see a series of breathtaking views on the upper road just past it. And if you’re one for adventure, Little River Canyon offers some of the hardest and highest quality sport climbing in the entire Southeast.
Fort Payne
While Little River Canyon is a major draw to the area on a national level, Fort Payne proper has its own level of significance. Perhaps most known as the home of the band Alabama, the township has a museum dedicated to the band as well as statues scattered around town. A downtown area and a park give plenty to do within the city limits, while nearby Desoto State Park provides yet another outlet to the great outdoors if you haven’t already had your fill.
Cathedral Caverns State Park
If all the attractions above ground aren’t enough, you can give the ones below a try. Cathedral Caverns State Park is located about an hour and a half from Gadsden, and features a wide, imposing entrance to the cave system. Guided tours take you through the cave, exploring the rich history and geology of the site. The park also offers camping and cabin stays as well as gemstone mining, a popular attraction for younger visitors.
All in all, Northeast Alabama is a key area of the state for more reasons than one. The wealth of parks and outdoor activities is a huge plus, but the central location to larger cities like Birmingham, Huntsville, and even Atlanta and Chattanooga make it the perfect home base for frequent travelers who want to get away from the city life. If you’re interested in learning more about the area or property around it, contact The Zachos Team; while we’re based out of Atlanta, we are also licensed Realtors in Alabama and have plenty of experience with the Georgia side of the state.
Written by Paul Zachos III