28 Best & Fun Things to Do in Tuscaloosa (AL)

Tuscaloosa is a beautiful city located on the Black Warrior River banks in the Western region of Alabama, United States.

Recognized as the fifth-largest city in Alabama, it has a population of approximately one hundred thousand, six hundred and thirty-three.

Tuscaloosa is known for having some of the best sporting facilities in the country and lots of exciting attractions.

Whenever you visit the city, do well to visit Paul W. Bryant Museum, Bryant-Denny Stadium, Tuscaloosa Farmers Market, Tuscaloosa Riverwalk, the Tuscaloosa Amphitheater, and its many top attractions.

Are you planning a visit to Tuscaloosa? Here is a list of top things to do in Tuscaloosa, AL.

Things to Do in Tuscaloosa

1. Tuscaloosa Riverwalk

An awesome place for outdoor enthusiasts is the Tuscaloosa Riverwalk, a trail of 4.5 miles that runs through the southern banks of the Black Warrior River.

Tuscaloosa Riverwalk is a great place for outdoor activities such as running, biking, jogging, and walking either with your pets or friends.

The path began right at Capitol Park and spread all over the city before ending at the east side of Manderson landing.

Tuscaloosa Riverwalk features several gazebos and benches scattered throughout the path for visitors to take a break and relax.

The riverwalk is usually graced with different colors at different times of the year depending on the seasons, which brings people from various parts of the world.

2. Monnish Park

Are you searching for a place to spend quality time with your loved ones? Then, add a visit to Monnish Park to your list of fun things to do in Tuscaloosa, AL.

Monnish Park is one of the best parks in the city, offering visitors a memorable experience through the amenities available.

The park consists of a playground packed with several fun and colorful equipment for the little ones to have fun.

Monnish Park also features many picnic tables and grills perfect for those who would like to go picnicking and dine with loved ones.

The park also provides an uninterrupted electricity supply, events venues available for rentals, and conducive restrooms.

Address: 1500 Hackberry Ln, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401, United States

3. Paul W. Bryant Museum

Whether you’re a fan of Paul W. Bryant or not, add a visit to Paul W. Bryant Museum to your list of fun things to do in Tuscaloosa, AL.

Paul W. Bryant Museum was established in 1988 to commemorate the achievements of Paul Bryant, a legendary football coach at the University of Alabama.

From 1958 to 1982, Paul worked as the head coach of Crimson Tide, taking the prestigious team to six national championships.

Paul W. Bryant Museum houses a large collection of exhibits focused on the state’s football history and a massive collection about the career and life lived by the state’s acclaimed coach.

The Museum also features artifacts honoring other prominent players and coaches with more concentration on those who participated in helping the team win trophies.

Paul W. Bryant Museum consists of a research room featuring over one thousand footage of the games the team starred in.

Address: 300 Paul W Bryant Dr, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401, United States

4. Lake Nicol

Are you ready to go outdoor for a tremendous fun time? Then, add a to Lake Nicol to your list of fun things to do in Tuscaloosa, AL with your friends.

Lake Nicol is an amazing lake nestled right in the center of a gigantic wooden public park easily accessible from a stick forested area.

The public park is open to both citizens and visitors; it is widely surrounded by numerous private houses.

Lake Nicol is an excellent place for fishing and boating, with many picnic areas for picnicking during the summer.

The region is also a great place for birdwatching, such as Eastern bluebirds, nuthatches, osprey, pine warblers, and woodpeckers.

5. The Tuscaloosa Amphitheater

The Tuscaloosa Amphitheater is the largest outdoor amphitheater in this region, making it a perfect addition to your list of fun things to do in Tuscaloosa, AL.

The amphitheater was constructed by Harrison Construction, and it can accommodate up to seven thousand, four hundred and seventy persons.

The Tuscaloosa Amphitheater officially opened in April, 2011 with an opening performance by the Band of Horses and the Avett Brothers. 

This amphitheater’s stage is majorly used for music shows, and since its opening, the stage has been graced with so many talented artists.

The Tuscaloosa Amphitheater features fantastic amenities, a great sound system, and a serene environment for listening and watching live bands perform on stage.

Address: 2710 Jack Warner Pkwy, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401, United States

6. The Bama Theatre

 The Bama Theatre is the number one destination in Tuscaloosa, offering visitors an incredible entertainment experience.

This theatre is located in the heart of the city’s downtown district, and it was established in 1938 as an art performing center of the community.

The Bama Theatre is a historic theatre that has been serving the public for more than five decades, open throughout the year.

The theatre is decorated with beautiful lights, an outstanding sound system, and a large stage where talented bands perform.

The Bama Theatre also promotes the works of the Bama Art House Film Series, Acoustic Nights, concerts by local arts institutions, and other shows.

There is a section available for rentals by the theatre for productions for different concerts, fundraising events, and more.

Address: 600 Greensboro Ave, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401, United States

7. Mercedes-Benz US International Visitor Center and Factory museum

Mercedes-Benz US International Visitor Center and Factory Tour is a place that tells the history of Mercedes Benz cars.

Some of the cars were manufactured more than two decades ago in Alabama and are open free of charge.

Mercedes-Benz US International Visitor Center and Factory Tour display and promote concept vehicles, race cars, and automobiles made by the firm.

There is an exhibit on Peerless Safety, the firm’s brand; the Mercedes Benz plant is also open for group tours and requires prior registration.

These tours last for exactly ninety minutes and are done only in the morning and afternoons on Mondays and Wednesdays.

The company has been manufacturing cars since 1999, make sure you visit the company so you can see how they are made.

Address: 1900 Jack Warner Pkwy, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 | United States

8. The Battle-Friedman House

To your list of things to do in Tuscaloosa, AL, add a visit to the Battle-Friedman House for an amazing eye-opening experience.

The Battle-Friedman House was established in 1835 as a historic Antebellum Period home by North Carolina native Alfred Battle.

The house served as a family home after it was acquired by Bernard Friedman, a local merchant, in 1875 up until 1965.

Battle-Friedman House is currently operated by the Tuscaloosa County Preservation Society, and it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973.

This living history home is open to the general public and is home to the only Antebellum garden in Alabama.

Battle-Friedman House is open for guided tours of the entire property from Tuesday to Wednesday; it is available for private unique events, including corporate and wedding events.

Address; 1010 Greensboro Ave, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401, United States

9. The Old Tavern Museum

The Old Tavern Museum is housed in the 1827 historic tavern building owned by the city, which innkeeper William Dunton erected.

The historic building served as a home to Confederate soldiers and legislators of the state and was also used as the residence of Governor John Gayle.

The Old Tavern Museum is one of the few remaining 19-century taverns in Alabama, with its unique style showcasing the incredible Southern architecture.

The tavern was fully refurbished by the Tuscaloosa County Preservation Society into a gorgeous museum promoting the early history of the city.

The Museum is packed with several memorabilia and antique furnishings from the early era of the city, and it is open to everyone for free.

Address: 500 28th Ave, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401, United States

Want more of the beauty of Alabama? check out our guides on things to do in Fort Payne, things to do in Foley and things to do in Fort Morgan  for a memorable time in Alabama.

10. Capitol Park

Capitol Park is a beautiful park, and it is located on a historic site which was the state’s capital building site.

The park contained the seat of government of Alabama from 1826 and 1846. In 1923, it was later destroyed by fire, but the remnant remains at the park.

Capitol Park plays a huge role in preserving the state’s history, dating back to the 19th century, and the Preservation Society of Tuscaloosa County operates it.

 The park is a great place to relax and host a romantic picnic with your loved ones; there is a covered Pavillion open to everyone.

 Address: 2828 6th St, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401, United States

11. Tuscaloosa Farmers Market

If you’re searching for a place to shop and also get a chance to interact with locals, add a visit to the Tuscaloosa Farmers Market to your list of things to do in Tuscaloosa, AL.

Tuscaloosa Farmers Market is a market where local farmers come to display and sell their freshly harvested farm produce.

The market is open from 7am to 12pm every Saturday, with several vendors offering a wide variety of commodities.

You can shop for fresh vegetables, fruits, local cheeses, beef, baked foods, locally made traditional dishes, well-cut flowers, dairy items, freshly pressed juices, and more.

Tuscaloosa Farmers Market also offers organic products and beauty products; the market is open throughout the year.

Address: 1900 Jack Warner Pkwy, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401-1030 United States

12. The Tuscaloosa Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse

 One of the best things to do in Tuscaloosa, AL is visiting the Tuscaloosa Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse.

The Tuscaloosa Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse was designed in an elegant Greek style in 2011, consisting of important historical structures of the state.

This property features the replica of the 19th-century capitol building of the state, which was razed by fire at the Capitol Park.

The Tuscaloosa Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse is a 127, 000-square-foot facility that also features the Attorney’s Office, District Court, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Bankruptcy Court probation office.

The beautiful architectural style with its wonderful interior designs are decorated with gorgeous art paintings showing the city’s history.

Address: 2005 University Blvd, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401, United States

13. Escape Tuscaloosa

For an exceptional fun time with your friends and family, add a visit to Escape Tuscaloosa to your list of fun things to do in Tuscaloosa, AL.

Escape Tuscaloosa is a one-of-a-kind escape room that is different from other escape rooms from different parts of the world.

Every room here, has a unique twist, special themes, and a different kind of challenge and task. Escape Tuscaloosa assures you an exciting, tasking, and sterile adventure.

Escape Tuscaloosa offers you a limited amount of time, during which you get to find clues, solve riddles and puzzles to help you and your team escape the room.

This is a good venue for events such as team buildings, birthday parties, friends-night out, and more.

Escape Tuscaloosa is open from Monday to Thursday from 4pm-9pm, Friday from 4pm-10pm, Saturday from 11am-11pm, and Sunday from 12pm-8pm.

Address: 1663 McFarland N Blvd g2, Tuscaloosa, AL 35406, United States

14. The Children’s Hands-On Museum

For those visiting the city with kids, add a visit to the Children’s Hands-On Museum to your list of fun things to do in Tuscaloosa, AL.

The Children’s Hands-On Museum is an interactive museum for children offering twenty-five special exhibits which encourages the children’s interest in arts, STEM, and Civics.

Some special exhibits include a duplicate of an 18th-century village of the indigenous people of Choctaw and a miniature of a typical Japanese house.

The Children’s Hands-On Museum is open for kids from the ages of zero to thirteen, packed with lots of educational and exciting materials.

You will find a studio for arts, a children-inspired hospital, a life-sized space station, a replica of the farmers market, and more.

The Children’s Hands-On Museum is a host to many kinds of remarkable public events all year round, such as Nickelodeon’s Worldwide Day of Play celebration and events for the Halloween celebrations.

Address: quite 2213 University Blvd, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401, United States.

15. Murphy-Collins House and African-American Museum

Murphy-Collins House and African-American Museum is housed in a two-story bungalow built in the early 1920s in a craftsman style.

The Murphy-Collins House was the home of the first licensed African-American mortician in the city, Will J. Murphy.

Murphy-Collins House and African-American Museum was built with essential materials regained from the former Capitol Building that burnt down in 1923.

The museum is a living history managed by the Tuscaloosa County Preservation Society, which promotes the lifestyle and culture of the early African-American settlers in the community.

The Murphy-Collins House and African-American Museum is open for tours from Wednesdays to Saturdays through special appointments. The museum also offers school programs focused on civic rights and African-American culture.

Address: 2601 Paul W Bryant Dr, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401, United States

16. Will May Dog Park

Why not take your lovely furry friend out on an incredible treat at Will May Dog Park in Tuscaloosa.

Will May Dog Park features separate areas for big and smaller dogs that are entirely fenced to offer security.

The park offers dogs a large land space to run around and play with other dogs or their owners without any restrictions.

Will May Dog Park is always clean and adequately maintained, making it a great place for dogs and their owners to spend time.

Address: 5901 Watermelon Rd, Tuscaloosa, AL 35406, United States

For a fun time in Alabama, take to exploring our list of things to do in Guntersville, things to do in Gadsden and fun things to do in Auburn for a fun vacation time.

17. Mugshots Grill and Bar

Dining at Mugshots Grill and Bar is one of the best things to do in Tuscaloosa, AL, a restaurant and bar founded in September 2007.

Mugshots Grill and Bar are known for serving the best burgers in the region and serving different kinds of American meals.

The restaurant offers a classic food menu, including Holy Guacamole Chicken Sandwiches, fried pickles, Mac and Cheese Burger, Big Kahuna Burger with Beer Battered Fries, Garlic Parmesan Bacon Burger, Country Fried Steak, and more.

They also offer a wide variety of draft beers such as bud light, Blue Moon, Yuengling, Budweiser, Coors light, shiner bock, Miller light, and more.

Address: 511 Greensboro Ave, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401, United States

18. Bryant-Denny Stadium

Paying a visit to Bryant-Denny Stadium is one of the best things to do in Tuscaloosa, AL; it was constructed in 1929.

Bryant-Denny Stadium was named in honor of two legends, President George H. Denny, who headed the University of Alabama in the 20th century, and Paul Bryant, the head coach.

The stadium is widely recognized as the Crimson Tide school football team’s home stadium and the world’s eighth-largest football stadium.

Bryant-Denny Stadium has a seating capacity of one hundred and one thousand, eight hundred and twenty-one.

The legendary school football team has won over two hundred games here, and it was the venue for several significant games played by the team.

Address: 920 Paul W Bryant Dr, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401, United States

19. The Jemison-Van de Graaff

The Jemison-Van de Graaff Mansion is a historic home in Tuscaloosa that was designed and constructed in 1862 for local politician Robert Jemison, Jr.

This historic building is a twenty-six-room mansion built in an Italianate-inspired style; it was passed on to the descendants of Jemison.

Jemison-Van de Graaff Mansion was transformed into a library in the mid20th century before it was converted into a publishing company.

The mansion was later purchased in 1991 by Tuscaloosa County Preservation Society and modified into a living history museum.

The Jemison-Van de Graaff Mansion houses a large collection of advanced home technology from the 19th century, which were regarded as the most evolutionary home technology during the era of their invention.

The mansion is now open to everyone for guided tours which requires reservations, and it is available for rentals for special events, including corporate events, weddings, reunions, and more.

Address: 1305 Greensboro Ave, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401, United States

20. Dreamland BBQ

Dreamland BBQ is a nice restaurant in Tuscaloosa, established by a former local brick mason, John “Big Daddy Bishop, in 1958.

The restaurant is widely known for its signature barbecue sauce and ribs made using a special recipe since its establishment.

Dreamland BBQ is nicely designed with beautiful decorations plus the clean and serene environment.

Some of the meals served include Ribs N Sausage N Sides, Creamy Coleslaw, Spare Ribs, Banana Pudding, Potato Salad, Baked Beans, Bar-B-Que Shake, chocolate dream, and more.

Dreamland BBQ also offers a variety of drinks to blend with the meals, such as domestic and international beers with other beverages.

Address: 5535 15th Ave E, Tuscaloosa, AL 35405, United States

21. Civil Axe Throwing – Tuscaloosa

Another awesome way to spend the day in Tuscaloosa is by engaging in an axe-throwing competition with your group of friends and family.

Civil Axe Throwing is the best place for you in the city; axe throwing is an easy game which involves throwing an axe at a point while also trying to strike close to the bull’s eye.

The fun center is open to everyone, both beginners and professionals; before any game, players are taught all they need to know about the game and all the essential safety tips.

Civil Axe Throwing offers you a chance to have fun while also making your safety the number one priority.

The center is a perfect place for any special occasion or celebration, including team-building events, birthday parties, get-togethers, and more.

Civil Axe Throwing is open on Thursday & Friday from 3pm-11:30, Saturday from 12:30pm-12:30am, and Sunday from 12:30pm-8pm. (Closed Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday).

Address: 2310 4th St Unit 10, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401, United States

22. Archibald and Woodrow’s Barbeque

Visiting Archibald and Woodrow’s Barbeque is one of the top things to do in Tuscaloosa, AL, especially with your family and friends.

Archibald and Woodrow’s Barbeque was founded by George Archibald, Jr., Betty, his wife, and Paulette Washington, his sister, in 1962.

Although this restaurant’s branch in Tuscaloosa officially opened in 2002, it is managed by the owners’ grandson.

Archibald and Woodrow’s Barbeque are popular for serving hickory-smoked barbecue made with secret recipes, which is the main reason for their unique tastes.

They serve meals like Mixed Plate Ribs and Pulled Pork, Ribs and Baked Beans, Six Pieces of Catfish Dinner, Ribs and Pulled Pork Plate, Chicken Tenders, Pulled Pork Sandwich, smoked wings, and many more.

Address: 4215 Greensboro Ave, Tuscaloosa, AL 35405, United States

23. River

For an amazing dining experience, River is the best place for you in Tuscaloosa. A restaurant that serves delicious meals made from scratch using the highest quality ingredients.

River is a family-friendly restaurant that assures you a memorable experience through the fantastic customer service and delicious meals.

The menu offers many meals, including Salmon Hollandaise, Lobster Stuffed Mushrooms, Salmon Chips, flatbread, Shrimp and Grits, French Toast, and so on.

River offers happy hour specials on delightful cocktails, beers, sangria, and wines every mid-day on Thursday, Tuesday, and Wednesday.

Address: 1650 Jack Warner Pkwy NE Unit 1005, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401, United States

24. DePalma’s Italian Cafe

A fantastic restaurant in downtown Tuscaloosa, DePalma’s Italian Cafe has been in existence for over two decades.

DePalma’s Italian Cafe is known for serving the best Italian cuisine prepared using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

The restaurant features an open-style kitchen where customers have the chance to watch their meals being prepared.

DePalma’s Italian Cafe provides a casual setting with a friendly atmosphere mixed with the pleasant aroma of the meals.

The restaurant offers an extensive food menu featuring meals like caesar salad, stuffed mushrooms, The Gorgonzola Filet, baked feta, pasta Depalma, Filetto Siciliano, pizzas, cheese calzone, and more.

DePalma’s Italian Cafe also offers different kinds of delightful drinks like cappuccino and espresso juices, including locally crafts beers and wines.

Address: 2300 University Blvd, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401, United States

25. The Mildred Westervelt Warner Transportation Museum

The Mildred Westervelt Warner Transportation Museum is located at the historic Queen City Park of Tuscaloosa as a unit of the University of Alabama Museum System.

The Museum is housed in a former pool house structure built by Don Buel Schuyler, Frank Lloyd Wright’s apprentice, in 1943.

The pool house was listed on the National Register of Historic Places after half a decade; later, in 2011 it was transformed into a museum.

The Mildred Westervelt Warner Transportation Museum educates the public about the advancement of the transportation system, its role in the city economy, and the people’s lives.

The Museum is usually open in the morning and afternoon on Tuesdays and Saturdays, although it might differ during major national holidays.

Address: 1901 Jack Warner Pkwy, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401, United States

26. Shindig Family Entertainment Center

If you are searching for family-related activities in Tuscaloosa, you should visit the Shindig Family Entertainment Center.

Shindig is a perfect entertainment center with laser tags, bowling, arcade games, and a restaurant with a lounge.

This entertainment center is a fantastic place for a family gathering because it offers a lot of fun for all ages.

The private rooms are large and clean; you can notice they take good care of the building.

Shindig Family Entertainment Center has clean restrooms, good food, and a pleasant bar.

The center is rarely crowded, making it perfect for anyone who is not a fan of crowds.

The staff is polite and ready to help in any way that can ease your stress.

If you want to organize a birthday party for your kid while vacationing in this city, pick Shindig Family Entertainment Center.

Address: 5800 McFarland Blvd E, Tuscaloosa, AL 35405, United States

27. Bowlero Tuscaloosa

Another entertainment center worth visiting during your stay in Tuscaloosa is Bowlero Tuscaloosa.

Bowlero Tuscaloosa features the trendiest lanes to play on. The facility features soft lounge seats, black lights, and a large HD video wall that shows everything from music videos to live sports and classic family movies.

Bowlero Tuscaloosa also has modern video games and several old-school classics.

You can play your favorite game, find new ones and enjoy famous titles like Mario Kart, World’s Largest Pac-Man, Jurassic Park Arcade, and lots more.

You can visit the pro shop and get the equipment you need for your best bowling.

Drop by during the week to check out all the new arrivals and shop for different shoes, bags, balls, and other bowling items.

Watch the big game on their HD flat-screen TV while nursing a glass or pint of craft beer, wine, or any of their signature cocktails.

Address: 2001 McFarland Blvd E, Tuscaloosa, AL 35404, United States 

28. Alabama Museum of Natural History

Alabama Museum of Natural History, a popular tourist attraction in Tuscaloosa, has been operating for the last 150 years.

The museum showcases the history of the people in the city and the various forms of art they have incorporated.

The Alabama Museum of Natural History is on the property of the University of Alabama and provides plenty of opportunities to learn more about the state’s history.

This museum features permanent exhibitions and holds temporary exhibitions on different topics.

You can also find specific historical items from the Neolithic Age on display.

Address: 427 6th Ave, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487, United States

Planning to explore West Alabama? Get the best of attractions and activities in Montgomery, and Decatur for a fun vacation.

Plan a Trip to Tuscaloosa

Tuscaloosa will change your mindset if you think you have visited all the amazing cities in the United States.

The city has countless attractions and natural resources that will exceed your expectations and keep you coming back for more. Start planning a visit to this city today!