You probably already know that Tuscaloosa, Alabama, is home to the University of Alabama and its legendary Crimson Tide football program, but did you know that Tuscaloosa has so much more to offer? If your family loves spending time in the great outdoors, visiting museums, eating delicious food, or watching sports, Tuscaloosa is a great day trip destination.
Where is Tuscaloosa?
Tuscaloosa is about an hour drive west of Birmingham.
What Activities are in Tuscaloosa?
The University of Alabama
Sports
I can’t skip over the most obvious reason that many people visit Tuscaloosa- The University of Alabama. Although they are most well known for football, my family has cheered and had fun at gymnastics meets, basketball games, and baseball games as well. Every sports event we’ve attended has included entertainment for the kids. The Sewell- Thomas baseball stadium even has a playground and mini in-field for little ones to play in. Don’t waste time finding close parking. Instead, take advantage of the free shuttle system for an easy parking spot and a fun, stress-free ride for the family.
The Quad
Don’t leave campus without walking over to the Quad, where you’ll find Denny Chimes and plenty of space for kids to run and play. On football game days, the Quad is full of tailgate tents, inflatables for the kids, and you may just run into Big Al himself!
Museum of Natural History
The University of Alabama’s Museum of Natural History contains thousands of specimens from many areas of research. Exhibits include information and artifacts related to dinosaur fossils, Alabama wildlife, Civil Rights, and honeybees. This museum is open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 AM- 4:30 PM, but be sure to check the website before going since there are a few exceptions. Admission is free for children under 5, $3 for K-12 students and $5 for adults.
Riverwalk
The Riverwalk along the Black Warrior River near downtown Tuscaloosa has a trail stretches over 4 miles and includes a playground and splash pad.
Randall Park and Family Trailhead
The Randall Park and Family Trailhead at the Northern Riverwalk is a newer park that is really well done. In addition to pavilions and trails along the river, there is an amazing playground that my children love. The park also features a large green space and sculptures.
Children’s Hands-On Museum
For the past 40 years, Children’s Hands-On Museum (CHOM) has been a fun place for children up to age 13 to learn about STEM through play. Kids can learn about the Black Warrior River, farming, different cultures, art, science, and more. CHOM is open Monday through Saturday from 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM. Admission is free under 1 year old, $11 for those 65 and older, and $12 for the rest of the family.
That Turtle Place
That Turtle Place is a public educational sanctuary focused on turtles. It is home to over 150 rescued turtles and tortoises, as well as other reptiles, pigs, and peacocks. Your family can learn more about the ecological importance of these animals and the challenges they face. That Turtle Place is open Thursday- Sunday from 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM. Admission is $10, but free for children under 2 years old.
Pop Stroke
If your family likes putt putt but can do without the cheesy themes at most mini golf parks, take them to Pop Stroke! The two courses are well-maintained, and when the kids finish their golf game, they can play yard games or hang out in the ice cream parlor. Pop Stroke opens at 10:00 AM daily, and day passes are $17 for kids and $25 for adults.
Where Should We Eat?
Rama Jama
Rama Jama is the spot to go for the best breakfast and burgers in town. Your kids also will love looking at all of the University of Alabama memorabilia decorating the space.
Dreamland BBQ
Tuscaloosa is home of the original Dreamland BBQ. Stop in for their famous ribs, and don’t leave without trying their secret banana pudding recipe.
The Venue
When everyone wants something different, head to The Venue. This food hall features classic American food in Finny’s Pub, Mexican food at Santo Taco, Pizza at Uncle Nick’s, breakfast and burgers at a second location of Rama Jama, and desserts in Liza’s Sweet Shoppe. There is space for kids to run and play, as well as live music and movie viewings on certain evenings.
Moonshot Creamery
Moonshot Creamery serves up amazing flavors of handcrafted, organic ice cream made with local Alabama milk. Owned by a local family with young kids, Moonshot Creamery is a kid-friendly space.
Where will your family visit on your day trip to Tuscaloosa, Alabama?
For more Central Alabama fun, be sure to check out Montgomery, too!
Experience Montgomery, Alabama :: Quick Getaways from Birmingham
