Located atop Lookout Mountain in DeKalb County, Mentone was founded in the late 19th century. The town became a popular destination for people desiring the healing powers found in Mentone’s mineral springs. The Mentone Springs Hotel served as the hub of the small town. In 2014 the hotel burned due to an electrical fire, but Mentone remains a hidden gem for visitors year-round.
Where is Mentone?
Mentone is located in the northeast corner of Alabama, about halfway to Chattanooga. From Birmingham, the drive is about two hours and most of it is an easy drive on I-59.
Where to Stay
Mentone has many options for accommodations, but you won’t find a chain hotel unless you travel down the mountain and stay in Fort Payne. Mentone has three bed and breakfasts—The Mentone Inn, The Hatter Country Inn, and Andiamo Lodge.
DeSoto State Park has chalets, a lodge, and a campground.
If you are looking to rent a cabin or single-family home, check out Mentone Mountain Getaways.
If you need to accommodate a large group, check out the beautiful Cragsmere home! You can always search for privately owned homes for rent by owner. My recommendation is to stay on the brow for an amazing view!
Where to Dine
Without question, the restaurant you can’t miss is Wildflower Cafe! Reservations are recommended for dinner, and you have to try their famous tomato pie! However, there are plenty of other great meals to be had in Mentone!
- If you prefer Cajun fair, make a dinner reservation at Moon Lake Kitchen.
- The Hatter Cafe is a nod to Alice in Wonderland. Eat there for breakfast and lunch Thursday through or Monday, or dinner on Friday and Saturday.
- Grab a delicious pizza at Mentone Market before watching the sunset or a take-out meal for the whole family.
- If a meat-n-three is calling your name for lunch, take a short drive down the mountain to Valley Head and eat at Tiger’s Inn.
- Try Elevation Bistro if you are looking to elevate your dining experience with fresh, local food.
If you simply need to buy groceries, there is a Walmart Supercenter and Foodland in Fort Payne.
Where to Shop and Play
Outdoor Fun
If you like to be outdoors, Mentone is the place to be, thanks in part to Desoto State Park and Little River Canyon!
- DeSoto State Park is a great place for hikes, whether you need something easy or are ready for something more adventurous. DeSoto has 35 miles of hiking trails and 11 miles of biking trails. A family-favorite trail is the ADA-accessible Talmadge Butler Boardwalk Trail. Across from the boardwalk trail is another family-friendly Indian Falls trail. The state park also has picnic areas, a playground, a pool, and a zipline. While at DeSoto, be sure to visit Sallie Howard Baptist Church to see a church building built into a large boulder.
- Check out Little River Canyon if you need to cool off in the water. Within Little River Canyon, visit Canyon Mouth Park for a picnic area, playground, and river access. You can also visit the three waterfalls within Little River Canyon and dip your toes in Little Falls, a popular swimming hole in the summer.
- Visit Brow Park for a picnic lunch or to watch the sunset. There is no playground, but it has some amazing views!
- Go horseback riding at Shady Grove Horse Ranch.
- If you are going in the winter, Mentone even has a ski resort! Ski the slopes at Cloudmont Ski Resort.
Shopping
- Head to The Shops at Moon Lake Village for a collection of shops, studios, and a community park.
- Visit the unique local shops at the Log Cabin Craft Village.
- Mentone Market is the perfect place to find gifts.
Nearby Activities
If you have some extra time on your hands, don’t forget about Fort Payne! Their downtown area is walkable with shops, restaurants, and coffee! Don’t miss The Spot for coffee and local shops like Alice Circle. You can also try glass blowing at Orbix Hot Glass and visit the Alabama Fan Club and Museum. If you drive a bit further, you aren’t far from Cloudland Canyon State Park, Rock City, and Ruby Falls!
Whether you are looking for a weekend away in Mentone or a quiet town for lodging while you take day trips to nearby cities, Mentone will not disappoint. If you’ve never been, it’s a must see place in Alabama for all families! There’s really not a bad time to visit Mentone. All seasons are perfect for enjoying everything this quaint town has to offer.
