There are a lot of things in life that you must do, but there are only a few of those must-do’s that you WANT to do. That’s why we have compiled a list of the top things you must do during your stay in Mississippi/Alabama. Columbus, Tupelo, Birmingham, and Tuscaloosa are beautiful, vibrant towns with many things to do this Summer that are perfect for the whole family. From hands-on children’s museums in Tuscaloosa to Elvis Presley’s birthplace in Tupelo, to the Mcwane Science Center in Birmingham, there are plenty of entertaining activities and events that you and your family will love!
Historic Downtown Shopping District
This charming walkable district is lined with a variety of local boutiques. The Bride and Groom is an award-winning regional destination for its extensive collection of gorgeous wedding and mother-of-dresses. Find a perfect outfit for any occasion at Cobalt, Mira Mira, or Park Place Boutique and Salon. For the little ones don’t miss Kids Cavern or Little Magnolia Company! For home décor or a little piece of Columbus stop by Holly Hocks and A Southern Gathering.
Located between Main Street and College Street, Catfish Alley was a central meeting and business district for the Columbus African-American Community in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Boats would come off the river and bring various items into the city. The alley was known for the smell of delicious catfish sandwiches and the name “Catfish Alley” was born.
Columbus Lake on Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway
Columbus Lake offers 9,000 acres of fresh water for fishing and water sports.
Plymouth Bluff offers four miles of self-guided nature and fitness trails. The Conference Center boasts almost 12,000 square feet of multipurpose lecture/conference space and 24 guest rooms.
The Mississippi Blues Trail identifies influential musicians as well as historic sites and places that contributed to our wonderful blues heritage.
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The Mall at Barnes Crossing is Northeast Mississippi’s premier shopping destination, serving an average of 12 million shoppers annually with a diverse lineup of anchor stores, retailers, dining venues, and entertainment options.
Downtown Tupelo Shopping District
Locally owned and operated, our downtown businesses offer a shopping experience that you will remember and return to often.
Tombigbee State Park is a public recreation area located off Mississippi Highway 6 five miles east of Tupelo, Mississippi. The state park surrounds 90-acre Lake Lee and is named for the nearby Tombigbee River
FUN & FAMILY RECREATIONAL SWIM TIMES. Saturday from 12-5 pm and Sunday from 1-5 pm. Child/Adult Ratio policy and swimsuit policy enforced. $3.00 per person.
The Elvis Presley Birthplace is a historic museum site in Tupelo, Mississippi, dedicated to the preservation of the birthplace of American musician Elvis Presley.
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Children’s Hands-On Museum of Tuscaloosa! CHOM, where children Explore, Create, and Discover every time they visit! We inspire learning and growth through the power of PLAY! Learning through play is what our exhibits are all about, with S.T.E.A.M. fun and exciting experiences waiting for families with newborns through 13 years.
Mason’s Place is an inclusive playground featuring GameTime equipment, themed with iconic Tuscaloosa landmarks and play activities for all ages and abilities!
Lake Lurleen State Park is a publicly owned recreation area located on U.S. Highway 82 approximately 9 miles northwest of Northport in Tuscaloosa County, Alabama. The state park’s 1,625 acres include 250-acre Lake Lurleen and a 23-mile trail system.
The Tuscaloosa Barnyard is the perfect place for family fun! They offer a large petting zoo, swim lessons, horseback riding, tractor rides, summer camps, and so much more! They also offer birthday/field trip event booking and have a mobile version to bring the barnyard to you.
A 24-lane bowling center with a 3500 sq ft Lazer Tag arena and arcade. They have an over-the-top grill serving lots of choices for your tastes. They also have an award-winning lounge with the best bartenders in the area.
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A science museum and research archive located in downtown Birmingham, Alabama, United States. The state-of-the-art hands-on science center, aquarium, and 250-seat IMAX Dome Theater are housed in the historic and refurbished Loveman’s department store building.
Let’s Play is the perfect destination for families looking for a fun-filled day of play! With our all-day admission, your children can enjoy hours of exciting activities and adventures, from scaling our spider web tower to navigating our multi-level obstacle course.
A zoological park that opened in 1955 in Birmingham, Alabama, United States. The Birmingham Zoo is an independent, not-for-profit, 501 organization, and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, participating in AZA Species Survival Plans.
Oak Mountain State Park has about 150 single-family campsites and is nestled in rolling hills next to Beaver Lake. There are 84 sites with hookups.
Thrill-seekers, racing enthusiasts, and families alike brace yourselves for the most exhilarating racing adventure you’ve ever encountered. With electric go-karts, K1 Speed offers a high-performance driving experience that will leave you breathless. Feel the rush of speed as you navigate through challenging twists and turns on our indoor tracks.
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The Information, Tickets and Travel Office has tons of resources to help you plan the best Summer ever!