Anniston is a fascinating city in Calhoun County, Alabama, United States. It is also the County’s seat.
The city is located east of Birmingham and the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. It is part of the Anniston Oxford Metropolitan Statistical Area.
It was initially named after the Woodstock Iron Company, but it was changed to Anniston to prevent confusion with another Woodstock in the state.
The city of Anniston has been involved with some of the nation’s most significant events. Traces of the events can be seen in Anniston’s museums, parks, streets, and neighboring surroundings.
There are also tons of outdoor activities to enjoy, from wine tasting to tubing, hiking, and mountain biking; if the city’s culture and history do not enchant you, its natural charm will.
Are you planning a trip to Anniston? Check out the best things to do in Anniston, AL.
Things to Do in Anniston, AL
1. Take a picture of the World’s Largest Office Chair
World’s Largest Office Chair
One of the top things to do in Anniston, AL, is to see the World’s Largest Office Chair.
Many cities have their unique tourist attractions. But have you seen a chair being recognized as an attraction? The World’s Largest Office Chair located on Noble Street is exactly that.
As the name implies, this is no normal office chair but a roadside attraction with a tall height of 33 feet and a 15-foot-square seat.
This roadside attraction emerged in 1881 as an advert for Miller’s Office Supply. In 1928, the attraction received the Guinness World Record.
Presently, the chair remains an attraction and serves as a parking area for hot days. Over the years, the chair has undergone a paint job and made it through a storm.
While the office supply business no longer exists, the World’s Largest Office Chair is among Annison’s must-see sights.
Address: Anniston, AL 36201, United States
2. Admire different exhibits at the Berman Museum of World History
Berman Museum of World History
The Berman Museum of World History is part of the Anniston Museums and Gardens. It is a history museum featuring a range of periods and different types of artifacts.
There are about 6,000 pieces to see in this Museum, many of which come from different parts of the world. These artifacts include various art pieces, antique pieces, and old weaponry.
Among the many pieces you can marvel at in the Berman Museum are over a thousand Asian art pieces.
Whether you are interested in checking out art or history, the Berman Museum has an abundance of pieces for you to scan through.
The Berman Museum of World History is among the best places to visit in Anniston, AL.
Address: 840 Museum Dr, Anniston, AL 36206, United States
3. Check out the Mountain Longleaf National Wildlife Preserve
The Mountain Longleaf National Wildlife Preserve is a great spot in the city to visit if you want to see local wildlife and explore landscapes.
The wildlife refuge covers 7,759 acres and lies on an old Fort McClellan military training base. The refuge mostly protects a mountain longleaf pine ecosystem but features tons of sights for you to find.
Depending on the season, you are allowed to snap or hunt various kinds of wildlife. Some wildlife species in the Mountain Longleaf National Wildlife Preserve include numerous bird species and small mammals like deer, foxes, and raccoons.
In addition to the different wildlife and landscapes, there are several trails you can also explore in the refuge.
You will see many trail sights and wildlife species when you go to Mountain Longleaf National Wildlife Preserve. It is no doubt one of the best places to visit in Anniston, AL.
Address: 407 Bains Gap Rd, Anniston, AL 36201, United States
4. Visit the Anniston Museum of Natural History
Anniston Museum of Natural History
Have you ever been to a museum that doesn’t have human history as its primary feature? The Anniston Museum of Natural History is that kind of museum.
The Anniston Museum of Natural History concentrates on the history and behavior of various types of wildlife throughout history and the globe.
Some of the exhibits include different avian species and displays of life-sized dinosaurs.
The other exhibits in the Anniston Museum of Natural History carry you through the African savannah, the wide expanse of the Egyptian desert, and the wildlife species that live there.
In addition to the wildlife exhibits and various history, you can see the temporary exhibits that occasionally pop up.
Address:800 Museum Dr, Anniston, AL 36206, United States
5. Go camping at Camp Lee
One of the fun things to do in Anniston, AL, is to go camping at Camp Lee. Camp Lee is a summer camp and retreat center with many outdoor fun facilities.
Camp Lee’s facilities include a climbing wall, zip lines, and a low-rope course.
The camp also contains many sports amenities like sports courts or a frisbee golf course. You should check out the nature trails if you want more activities.
You can inquire about Camp Lee’s various camping experiences to crown everything.
For anyone uncertain about the camp space, you can choose to get a tour of the camp.
Address: 70 Hidden Valley Rd, Anniston, AL 36207, United States
6. Walk around the Longleaf Botanical Gardens
Anniston has many places to stroll around nature, but if you would rather walk around flowers instead of expansive forests, make your way to the Longleaf Botanical Gardens.
The Longleaf Botanical Garden is among the numerous places on Museum Drive where visitors can appreciate nature and history.
You can tour about 125 acres of land with various sights and landscapes featuring different types of flora and fauna.
While many gardens have different plants, there are many other features to see in this place.
These features include multiple natural trails that lead through various plants and many types of local wildlife.
If you fancy simple areas, you can see the nearby koi pond and courtyard or check out the flower collections.
The Longleaf Botanical Gardens is a must-see place for plant lovers.
Address: 920 Museum Dr, Anniston, AL 36206, United States
7. Travel the Coldwater Mountain Bike Trail
The Coldwater Mountain Bike Trail is among the longest trails you can cycle or hike through in the area.
The trail is about 35 to 40 miles long and spreads through different landscapes. These landscapes include a watershed, a dirt road, and forested areas.
The Coldwater Mountain Bike Trail mainly appeals to hikers and cyclists. However, if you want to travel through the long trails and see what the area offers, you can head to the Coldwater Mountain Bike Trail.
Address: 401-455 Monsanto St, Anniston, AL 36201, United States
8. Search for the Freedom Riders National Monument
Freedom Riders National Monument
The Freedom Rider National Monument is among the highlights to discover in Anniston, AL.
This monument commemorates the Freedom Riders’ history during the Civil Rights Movement and has various sites to check out.
Freedom Riders National Monument has two historical sites: the Greyhound Bus Station and the Bus Burning Site.
The Greyhound Bus Station is the location where a bus transporting African American and White Freedom Riders was ambushed on May 14, 1961.
The old bus station is not constantly open to the public. Regardless, you can see the educational panel and murals in the adjacent building at the site, which contain information about the attack.
Meanwhile, the Bus Burning Site is outside the city area, near the Old Birmingham Highway.
If you are interested in checking out other sites connected to the Freedom Riders Movement, you can visit the Anniston Civil Rights and Heritage Trail.
Address: 1031 Gurnee Ave, Anniston, AL 36201, United States
9. Share a laugh with your friends at the Happy Hour Comedy Club
There may be tons of places in the city to bond with nature and learn about history, but there are also other places to find entertainment.
If you would like a night of laughs, visit the Happy Hour Comedy Club. The comedy club mostly opens at the end of the week but features various entertainers. It also serves as a restaurant.
During the shows, you can enjoy dishes like chicken wings, tacos, and combo meals. Aside from featuring meals and live performances, the comedy club offers spaces for darts and a pool.
To crown everything, there are karaoke and open mic nights to try out your comedy skills.
Go to the Happy Hour Comedy Club today if you want a fun night out or a delicious and hearty meal. It is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Anniston, AL.
Address: 1021 US Hwy 431 North, Anniston, AL 36206, United States
10. See the alpacas at Blackberry Hills Alpacas
Are you a fan of Alpacas? If yes, you would be glad to know that Anniston has an Alpaca farm called Blackberry Hill Alpacas.
For 79 years, the 60-acre farm on Saks Road has held events and housed Suri and Huycayas alpacas.
If you would rather meet the alpacas, the farm offers tours that will help you learn about them. You can also browse through their handmade products.
Aside from the tours, Blackberry Hill Alpaca Farm holds an open event where you can enjoy all animal encounters.
If you decide to join the events, you can check out all types of things, including a petty zoo and various vendors.
You’ll find tons of ways to make amazing memories at the Blackberry Hill Alpacas Farm.
Address: 6340 Saks Rd, Anniston, AL 36206, United States
Plan a Alabama road trip, check out our list of Restaurants in Alabaster and things to do in Gadsden for a fun Alabama exploration
11. Go hiking on the Michael Tucker Park & Chief Ladiga Trail
The Michael Tucker Park & Chief Ladiga Trail is among the numerous parks in the city, but it’s one park that also serves as a campground.
This park, located by Weaver Road, offers many outdoor activities for a day of fun. If you are interested in camping in the area, there are 16 primitive campsites you can use.
Aside from the different park facilities and campsites, you can hike the 33-mile trail, Anninston’s first extended rails-to-rails project. Hiking this path is one of the fun things to do in Anniston, AL.
While hiking the trails, you can see different sights, including streams, a forest, farmlands, and more.
Among the many different parks in the city, Michael Tucker Park & Chief Ladiga Trail stand out for their fascinating amenities.
Address: 6514 Weaver Rd, Anniston, AL 36206, United States
12. Stroll around Zinn Park
Different parks have various features you can check out. At Zinn Park, you will find several facilities that cater to the community.
A highlight of this park is the Martin Luther King Jr. Pavilion. It is one of the top pavilions for holding events.
Apart from the pavilion is the Unity House, where the community gathers for events and local meetings.
In addition to these event venues, the park has a playground and a splash pad. If you would like to check out community events or spend a few hours in the park, head to Zinn Park.
Address: 101 W 14th St, Anniston, AL 36201, United States
13. Sample delectable wines at Southern Oak Wines
Are you a lover of wine? If yes, the Southern Oak Wines is a great place to sample delicious wine.
You can visit this vineyard to check out its various wines, including fruit and dry ones.
Another option is to tour the vineyard and learn about its process and other products, such as its gift products.
A collection of azaleas and a blackberry section are some things you’ll see at Southern Oak Wines. You can watch the azaleas bloom during the summer while drinking a glass of wine.
Wine tasting at Southern Oak Wines should be on your itinerary of what to do in Anniston, AL.
Address: 1484 Dry Hollow Rd, Anniston, AL 36206, United States
14. Eat a delicious meal at Classic on Noble
Classic On Noble
Classic on Noble is one of the top restaurants for fine dining in Alabama and one of the finest places to experience authentic and traditional American dishes.
The restaurant has a simple but welcoming environment, which makes it easy for patrons to feel at home and enjoy their menu.
The eatery retains a rustic look, and its menu tells much about the traditional American food culture.
Classic on Noble is a terrific place to sample culinary diversity that has been around in the area for centuries.
Address: 1024 Noble St, Anniston, AL 36201, United States
15. Play sports at the Anniston Sports Complex
The Anniston Sports Complex is an excellent spot for park and sports activities. It also features a duck pond and pavilion for more casual activities.
Additionally, the park provides visitors access to a local aquatic fitness center with an indoor swimming pool and various swimming programs.
Whether you are a sports fan or want to relax in the park, the Anniston Sports Complex has many amenities to please you.
Address: 356 Summerall Gate Rd, Anniston, AL 36205, United States
16. Hang out with your friends and family at Rack & Roll Billiards and Sports Bar
If you’re visiting with your friends, one of the top things to do in Anniston, AL, is to chill at Rack & Roll Billboard and Sports Bar.
It is a wonderful venue for a calm Saturday afternoon. At this place, you can sit down, nurse a drink, and relax while watching a game.
The Bar has a pleasant atmosphere, polite, friendly, and attentive staff, and the décor is warm and friendly.
Aside from the drinks, Rack & Roll Billiards and Sports Bar has a large menu that features fried pork chops, hamburger steaks, meatloaf, and country-fried steak.
Other delicacies on the menu include pulled pork plates, cabbage rolls, fried shrimp, and more.
Address: 917 Noble St, Anniston, AL 36201, United States
17. Admire art at Nunnally’s Noble Frame & Gallery
Although Anniston mainly features places that highlight history and nature, other places in the city celebrate the beauty of art. One such place is the Nunnally’s Noble Frame & Gallery.
Nunnally’s Noble Frame & Gallery is mainly a frame shop but also serves as a gallery venue for local art.
You can see art pieces at this place, including jewelry, paintings, and hand-crafted items.
If you would like to see other attractions in the city other than nature and history, Nunnally’s Noble Frame & Gallery is a great option.
Address: 1014 Noble St, Anniston, AL 36201, United States
18. Marvel at the exhibits at the Gadsden Museum of Art
The Gadsden Museum of Art, located on Broad Street, was established in 1963 when the city’s mayor offered room for the museum in Gadsden’s Convention Hall.
The first exhibit took place in 1965. The Museum relocated many times before settling down in its current home in downtown Gadsden.
The Museum consists of three galleries: the first-floor gallery features large shows and exhibitions; the second-floor gallery, titled the Grand Gallery, contains exhibits often displaying items from the Museum’s permanent collection.
Photographs, artifacts, and other items associated with local history are housed in the gallery on the last floor.
Address: 515 Broad Street, Gadsden, AL 35901, United States
19. Fish at Neely Henry Lake
Neely Henry Lake was created in 1966 when the Alabama Power Company constructed the 57-foot Neely Henry Dam to create hydroelectric power and recreation for the locals and tourists.
The dam and Lake are named after H. Neely Henry, who was a senior executive of Alabama Power.
The Lake, covering 11,200 acres, has a shoreline of 339 and is used for drinking water, power, wildlife, and fish habitat.
Fishing is a notable activity on the Lake: some fish caught in Neely Henry Lake include largemouth and striped bass, bluegill, catfish, crappie, and more. Other activities include camping, bird-watching, and biking.
Neely Henry Lake is in Gadsden, AL, 39 minutes from Anniston, AL
Address: Gadsden, Al, United States
20. Down a bottle of beer with your pals at Back Forty Beer Co
The Back Forty Beer Co., located on North Sixt Street, is a craft beer company in Gadsden. Black Fory Company boasts of its top-level quality and popular products.
The brewery, established in 2008, started offering its first product, the Naked Pig Pale Ale, in 2009.
Subsequently, it relocated to a 27,000-square-foot warehouse constructed in the 1940s, set up its equipment, and started creating more brews, such as Freckle Belly Indian Pale Ale, Fence Post Session Ale, and more.
Address: 200 N 6th Street, Gadsden, AL 35901, United States
21. Stroll on the James D. Martin Wildlife Park Trail
The James D. Martin Wildlife Park is located along the backwaters of the Neely Henry Lake on the Coosa River.
It provides visitors the chance to watch the wildlife through a walking trail along the shorelines and a series of boardwalks constructed across the Lake’s surface.
These boardwalks give guests access to some of the wooded islands at Black Creek’s entrance.
The terrains of the area include mudflats, wetlands, and wooded borders: these are all homes to a wide variety of wildlife, especially birds, such as osprey, many kinds of egrets and herons, and bald eagles.
Address: 998 S 6th St, Gadsden, AL 35901, United States
22. Allow your kids to have fun at the Factory
The Factory is a fun indoor activity center with laser tag batting cages, arcades, trampolines, and foam pits. The Factory started as a real factory in the 1980s with machinery and tools.
In 2013, the son of the owner of The Factory purchased the building and turned it into an enormous play center for kids and adults.
Some of its attractions include “Si-Fi Safari Galactic Laser Course,” “Open Jump,” 10,000 square feet of connected trampolines, a hi-tech laser tag game, and “Flight Stimulators,” where guests have the chance to control the simulated aircraft.
The Factory hosts special events like “Munchkin Jump” and “Teen Nights,” birthday parties, and field trips.
Address: 100 Thomas Dr, Gadsden, AL 35904, United States
23. Go on a scenic drive on the Lookout Mountain Parkway
The Lookout Mountain Parkway is a 93-mile road stretching from Gadsden, AL, to Chattanooga, TN.
It is an extremely picturesque drive through three U. S. states. You will enjoy seeing canyons, waterfalls, towns and villages, and national state parks. The drive starts at the Noccalulu Falls Park at the top of Lookout Mountain.
Some parks and attractions along the parkway include the Little River Canyon National Park with waterfalls and canyons, the 5,000-acre DeSoto National Park, the 800-acre Shady Grove Dude Ranch, and Cloudmont Ski & Golf Resort.
Address: Alabama, USA
24. Go golfing at the Twin Bridges Golf Club
The Twin Bridges Golf Club in Cartersburg is an 18-hole golf course in Gadsden.
This 6,800-yard par 72 golf course, designed by Gene Bates, is suitable for golfers of all levels, from amateurs to expert golf players. It is nestled along the panoramic Coosa River.
You will not only take satisfaction in the carefully manicured and maintained Bermuda fairway and bent grass greens but will also have the chance to see the natural beauty and intriguing wildlife along the Coosa River.
There are numerous hitting stations and an 8,000-square-foot putting green. The club also offers many kinds of instruction, including private instruction, group lessons, and clinics.
Address: 901 Riverbend Dr, Gadsden, AL 35901, United States
25. Catch a show at the Theatre of Gadsden
The Theater of Gadsden operated out of the historic Ritz building initially opened in 1928. It has brought live entertainment to the Gadsden community for over 50 years.
The theater season runs from March to October every year and always presents a special Christmas show in December.
Apart from the normal live shows, the Theatre of Gadsden also organizes a youth performing art program titled the Treehouse Theater to enable local kids and teenagers to audition.
The tickets are affordable, and visitors can purchase a special 5-ticket season pass if they want to watch all the shows.
Address: 310 N 27th St, Gadsden, AL 35904, United States
For a fun time in Alabama, take to exploring our list of things to do in Auburn and fun things to do in Guntersville for a fun vacation time.
Plan Your Trip to Anniston
Anniston offers access to fascinating attractions you wouldn’t want to miss exploring. It is a perfect vacation destination for couples and families.
You won’t lack what to do in Anniston, AL, with our guide. This gorgeous city is worth a visit. You will be glad you stopped by. Do visit!