
There's a reason so many great writers are from the South. Our unique culture breeds creativity. It also produces some fantastic cultural landmarks, such as the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, the sixth-largest Shakespeare festival in the world, which Variety called "an oasis of optimism and growth." If you're looking for more musical fare, catch some of America's hottest acts at huge concert venues in Birmingham, Montgomery or Orange Beach, to name a few. Or find the next Taylor Hicks at one of Alabama's hundreds of live music spots, where top upcoming talent is constantly on display.
After a good meal? Alabama features some legendary eateries. Visit the Dew Drop Inn in Mobile and bite into the burger that inspired the Jimmy Buffet song "Cheesburger in Paradise." Or come see how nationally acclaimed Birmingham chef Frank Stitt – whose restaurants include Highlands Bar & Grill, Bottega Resaurant & Café, and Chez Fonfon – has revolutionized the fine-dining experience in Alabama. Looking to pick up the pace? Catch a race at the Talladega Superspeedway (175,000 capacity) or a college football game at Tuscaloosa's Bryant-Denny Stadium (92,000 capacity) or Auburn's Jordan-Hare Stadium (87,000 capacity). Plus, with hundreds of beautiful golf courses nestled throughout the state, including the world-famous Robert Trent Jones golf trail, Alabama offers what Golf Digest has called some of the best golf vacations in the world.
Another good way to relax is a trip to one of Alabama's beautiful Gulf Coast destinations. Kick back on the white sands. Charter a boat. Visit a bustling water park. There's no shortage of things to do. In short, it's paradise. And not just for families but golfers, sun-worshippers, fishermen and vacationers in general. And you'll find plenty of outdoor activities in the rest of the state. Alabama offers literally every type of outdoor adventure imaginable, from hiking, camping, cycling, canoeing and kayaking to horseback riding, fishing, scaling boulders and rappelling down canyons. Browse our site, and learn more about beautiful Alabama.