Truly Sweet Home! Popular Tourist Spots in Alabama, the Southern United States

Alabama is located in the southern part of the United States. It might not immediately strike you as a tourist destination, but it is home to NASA-related facilities and the U.S. Army Materiel Command, and it represents one of the southern states famous for its automobile manufacturing industry. It is also known as the birthplace of outstanding musicians such as Nat King Cole. The warm climate typical of the South is actually perfect for tourism. The classic hit song “Sweet Home Alabama” isn’t just for show—here are some recommended tourist spots in wonderful Alabama.

1, Barber Vintage Motorsport Museum

Alabama ranks 4th in domestic automobile production (as of 2018), and true to its reputation, Alabama is home to the Barber Vintage Motorsport Museum—a tourist spot where you can learn about the history of motorsports.

A wide range of vintage and modern motorcycles, as well as classic sports cars, are richly exhibited. You can even watch the vehicles in action on the circuit outside the building—an irresistible sight for motorcycle and car enthusiasts. Each exhibited vehicle comes with detailed data and explanations. If you time it right, you might even catch a glimpse of maintenance work being performed on a vehicle in the open space beneath the building.

2. Alabama Music Hall of Fame

Alabama has produced numerous legendary musicians, making the state a musical sanctuary as well as a tourist destination. The Muscle Shoals area, with its historic recording studios, serves as the center of Alabama’s music scene. Among the recommended tourist spots in this region is the Alabama Music Hall of Fame.

This attraction displays items and rare materials related to famous artists. Performances by promising young artists—expected to one day be inducted into the hall of fame—are occasionally held, so be sure to check the schedule before your visit. You might even witness a new legend in the making.

3. U.S. Space & Rocket Center

Alabama is home to numerous facilities involved in the nation’s space research and development. The U.S. Space & Rocket Center is a tourist facility where you can learn about space—a subject that isn’t encountered frequently in everyday life.

It is located adjacent to NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center and the U.S. Army’s Redstone Arsenal. Inside, there are exhibits related to Dr. Wernher von Braun, the developer of the Saturn rockets, a space camp facility for children, as well as displays about the Apollo program and the Space Shuttle—offering an intense and immersive experience. Seeing actual famous rockets displayed before your eyes is truly spectacular and makes this a must-visit spot on any Alabama itinerary.

4. Martin Luther King Home

Montgomery, Alabama, is recommended for tourists as it is the place where Dr. Martin Luther King, a key figure in the American Civil Rights Movement, once lived. The home where he and his family resided is preserved and exhibited as the Dexter Parsonage Museum.

Even in dangerous times, his home was left unprotected, and the unguarded nature of his house reflects the life of a man who remained committed to non-violence throughout his life. Guided tours, which allow you to learn about his activities and lifestyle in Alabama, can be booked through the official website. This is a tourist spot you should definitely visit to understand Alabama’s history.

◎Summary

We have introduced some recommended tourist spots in Alabama, in the Southern United States. From automobiles to space, music to the Civil Rights Movement, Alabama offers a concentrated glimpse of America. Be sure to visit and fully enjoy the wide range of attractions this fascinating state has to offer.