Sweet Home Alabama

Gadsden

One of many Alabama cities rich in natural beauty and recreational opportunities, Gadsden has the perfect combination of mountains, water, Southern charm, museums, and even a little Civil War history. From golf courses, to children’s museums, to the lovely Noccalula Falls Park, to the Jim Martin Wildlife Park, to a host of fun family events like RiverFest, to bluegrass festivals, to symphony orchestra concerts, there are lots of things to do and see in this friendly, beautiful city.

Attractions

  • Blackstone Pub & Eatery

    Locally owned pub with fresh handmade pizzas. Live jazz on Tuesday evenings. Acoustic music Wed and Thur. Local and regional bands perform Friday and Saturday.

  • Central-Carver Legacy Museum, The

    Central High, the predecessor of Carver High School, served Gadsden's African-American community from 1934-36. Museum development under way.

  • Chestnut Station

    Local and regional bands most Friday and Saturday nights at this downtown establishment located on the street from which it gets its name.

  • Downtown Gadsden, Inc.

    Unique shops, thriving business community. Tours, historical information. Family fun on First Friday, Nov.–Mar. 5 p.m.–8 p.m., Apr.–Oct. 6 p.m.–9 p.m. Third Thursday Music, May–Oct. 6 p.m.–8:30 p.m.

  • Emma Sansom Monument

    Under gunfire, teenage heroine Emma Sansom guided Gen. Forrest's troops across Black Creek near Gadsden on May 2, 1863.

Events

  • GCHS Spring Concert

    May 22, 2012

    The Gadsden City High School bands present their spring concert. You are invited to spend and evening with the GCHS Symphonic, concert and jazz bands as they present selections from the musical repertoire for your enjoyment. 6 p.m.

  • Art of the State – Teaching Artists of Alabama

    Mar 15-May 23, 2012

    Mar 15-May 23, Gadsden Art of the State--Teaching Artists of Alabama 256-543-2787 ext. 26. www.culturalarts.org. Mary G. Hardin Center for Cultural Arts—A biennial juried competition among studio art faculty members of Alabama’s two and four-year colleges and universities. 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

  • New Works on Acrylic

    Mar 1-May 30, 2012

    Mar 1-May 30, Gadsden New Works on Acrylic 256-543-2787. www.culturalarts.org. Mary G. Hardin Center for Cultural Arts--Gadsden artist Tony Reddick presents his latest body of work.

  • Gadsden Riverfest

    Jun 8-9, 2012

    Jun 8-9, Gadsden Gadsden Riverfest 256-543-3472. Admission charged. www.gadsenriverfest.com. Albert Rains Blvd., on the banks of the Coosa River--Enjoy a family-friendly atmosphere with great musical entertainment, fireworks, children's activities and food. Fri., 4-11 p.m.; Sat., 1 p.m. until.

  • Photography Exhibit

    May 20-Jun 30, 2012

    May 20-Jun 30, Gadsden Photography Exhibit 256-546-7365. www.gadsdenmuseum.com. Fee for participants only. Gadsden Museum of Art and History, 515 Broad St.--Open entry photo contest, where you can see a variety of work by students, amateurs and professionals. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Accommodations

Restaurants