14-Day Eco-Friendly Cultural Road Trip in Alabama

Day 1: Explore Birmingham

Birmingham, Alabama

8:00AM

Breakfast at Chez Fonfon

Start your day with a classic French breakfast at this quaint bistro, enjoying the ambiance and local ingredients.
Drive to the downtown area.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

Immerse yourself in the history of the Civil Rights Movement through engaging exhibits and stories.
Walk to the institute.
USD15, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Pizitz Food Hall

Discover a variety of local and international eats at this vibrant food hall, perfect for trying multiple cuisines.
Walk from the institute.
USD20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit The Vulcan Park and Museum

Climb to the top of America’s largest cast iron statue for panoramic views of the city.
Drive to Vulcan Park.
USD6, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Highlands Bar & Grill

Enjoy a fine dining experience with Southern-inspired dishes in an elegant setting.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD50, 2 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Immersion

Birmingham, Alabama

8:00AM

Breakfast at Niki’s West

Savor a hearty Southern breakfast at this popular cafeteria known for its fresh ingredients.
Drive to the cafeteria.
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame

Celebrate Alabama's rich musical heritage through various exhibits showcasing influential jazz musicians.
Walk to the hall.
USD10, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Morning stroll at Railroad Park

Relax in this beautiful urban park that offers stunning views of the Birmingham skyline.
Walk to Railroad Park.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Jim ‘N Nick’s Bar-B-Q

Indulge in delicious Southern barbecue at this local favorite, famed for its smoked meats.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD25, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit 16th Street Baptist Church

Take a guided tour of this historic church that plays a significant role in the Civil Rights Movement.
Drive to church.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Bottega Restaurant

Enjoy contemporary Italian cuisine in a cozy yet upscale atmosphere to wind down your day.
Drive to Bottega.
USD40, 2 hours
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Day 3: Historic Montgomery

Montgomery, Alabama

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Egg & I

Kick off your day with a satisfying breakfast featuring eggs done right.
Drive to Montgomery (approx. 1.5 hours).
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the State Capitol

Examine the history of Alabama's political heritage at this iconic building.
Walk to the State Capitol.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore the Rosa Parks Museum

Delve into the powerful story of Rosa Parks and the Montgomery Bus Boycott.
Walk to the museum.
USD10, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Cahawba House

Experience a taste of Alabama's local flavors with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Old Alabama Town

Wander through beautifully preserved historic buildings that tell the stories of early Alabamians.
Drive to Old Alabama Town.
USD12, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Central

Savor meticulously crafted dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Drive to Central.
USD45, 2 hours
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Day 4: Art and Culture

Montgomery, Alabama

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Blue Plate Cafe

Enjoy a casual breakfast with scrumptious Southern fare to fuel your day.
Drive to the cafe.
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hank Williams Museum

Explore the life of the legendary country singer through various memorabilia and exhibits.
Walk to the museum.
USD10, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Alabama Shakespeare Festival

Take a guided tour of this famous theater and learn about its significance in the arts.
Drive to the theater.
USD5, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Capitol Oyster Bar

Experience fresh seafood with riverfront views and a lively atmosphere.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts

Discover a diverse collection of American art, including a beautiful sculpture garden.
Drive to the museum.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at El Rey Gourmet Mexican Kitchen

Enjoy innovative Mexican dishes made with authentic ingredients in a contemporary setting.
Drive to El Rey.
USD25, 2 hours
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Day 5: Civil Rights Journey

Selma, Alabama

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Shoppe

Start your day with a warm cup of coffee and freshly baked pastries.
Drive to Selma (approx. 1 hour).
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Edmund Pettus Bridge

Walk across this historic bridge, an important symbol of the Civil Rights Movement.
Walk to the bridge.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Selma Interpretive Center

Learn about the history of Selma and the voting rights struggle through various exhibits.
Walk to the center.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Cotton Patch Cafe

Dine at a cozy spot that offers a variety of Southern comfort dishes.
Drive to the cafe.
USD15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Brown Chapel A.M.E. Church

Take a guided tour of this historic church, where many Civil Rights leaders gathered.
Drive to the church.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at The Downtown Grill

End your day with delicious soul food served in a welcoming community atmosphere.
Drive to the grill.
USD20, 2 hours
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Day 6: Coastal Escape

Mobile, Alabama

8:00AM

Breakfast at Spot of Tea

Enjoy a delightful breakfast featuring a variety of tea options and a Southern twist.
Drive to Mobile (approx. 1.5 hours).
USD12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park

Take a self-guided tour of the famous battleship and learn about military history.
Drive to the park.
USD15, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Mediterranean Sandwich Co.

Savor fresh Mediterranean-inspired sandwiches and salads.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD12, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Mobile Museum of Art

Explore a diverse collection of visual art and participate in contemporary exhibits.
Drive to the museum.
USD10, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Battle House Renaissance Mobile Hotel & Spa

Indulge in upscale Southern cuisine and cocktails in a historic hotel setting.
Drive to the hotel.
USD55, 2 hours
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Day 7: Gulf Coast Fun

Mobile, Alabama

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Ruby Slipper Cafe

Enjoy delicious breakfast dishes inspired by New Orleans cuisine.
Drive to the cafe.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Day Trip to Dauphin Island

Spend the morning relaxing on the beach or exploring the island's natural beauty.
Drive to ferry terminal (approx. 30 min), then take ferry to Dauphin Island.
USD20, 5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch on Dauphin Island

Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the beachside restaurants.
Walk to the nearest restaurant.
USD30, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Return to Mobile

Relax on the return ride and reflect on a great island experience.
Take the ferry back and drive to Mobile.
USD20, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Cork & Cleaver

Savor modern cuisine made from local produce in a welcoming atmosphere.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD40, 2 hours
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Day 8: Beach Time

Gulf Shores, Alabama

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Hangout

There’s nothing better to kick off the day than a beachfront breakfast in a fun setting.
Drive to Gulf Shores (approx. 1 hour).
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Beach Day at Gulf State Park

Relax or have fun on the beautiful, eco-friendly beaches that are family-friendly.
Walk to Gulf State Park.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at LuLu’s Gulf Shores

Dine in a fun, family-friendly atmosphere with great food and live music.
Walk to LuLu’s.
USD25, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Kayaking in Lake Shelby

Explore the natural beauty of the park by renting a kayak and paddling through the calm waters.
Drive to rental location.
USD25, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Pink Pony Pub

Enjoy casual beach dining with great views of the sunset over the water.
Walk to the pub.
USD30, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Gulf Coast Adventures

Gulf Shores, Alabama

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café 305

Start your day off with a hearty brunch featuring local specialties.
Walk to Café 305.
USD12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge

Explore stunning natural landscapes and observe local wildlife in their habitat.
Drive to the refuge.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Wharf

Indulge in a varied menu featuring fresh and local ingredients along the waterfront.
Drive to The Wharf.
USD30, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Fishing Charter Experience

Join a guided fishing trip to enjoy a day on the water and catch local fish species.
Drive to charter dock.
USD150, 5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Ginny Lane Bar & Grill

Finish your day with burgers and beers in a lively environment.
Drive back to Grill.
USD25, 2 hours
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Day 10: Space Exploration

Huntsville, Alabama

8:00AM

Breakfast at Blue Plate Cafe

Fuel up with a classic Southern breakfast at this well-loved establishment.
Drive to Huntsville (approx. 1.5 hours).
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the U.S. Space & Rocket Center

Discover Alabama's pivotal role in the space race with interactive exhibits and rockets.
Drive to the center.
USD25, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Cotton Row

Enjoy farm-to-table cuisine emphasizing Southern flavors in an upscale setting.
Drive to Cotton Row.
USD35, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Huntsville Botanical Garden

Explore stunning gardens and numerous trails in a beautifully curated environment.
Drive to the gardens.
USD12, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Commerce Kitchen

Savor a mix of Southern and Contemporary dishes made from quality local ingredients.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD40, 2 hours
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Day 11: Engaging Experiences

Huntsville, Alabama

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Toasted Yolk

Start your day with nourishing and wholesome breakfast options.
Drive to The Toasted Yolk.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Burritt on the Mountain

Explore this historic home and heritage park located atop a mountain with beautiful views.
Drive to Burritt.
USD10, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Commerce Kitchen

Return for a delicious meal showcasing local Southern fare.
Drive to Commerce Kitchen.
USD35, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore the Huntsville Museum of Art

Enjoy the collection of regional and national art while exploring rotating exhibitions.
Drive to the museum.
USD8, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment

Witness artists in action at this historic cotton mill turned art center, showcasing local talent.
Drive to Lowe Mill.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Cotton Row Kitchen

Wrap up the day at this chic restaurant known for its innovative takes on Southern classics.
Drive to Cotton Row Kitchen.
USD40, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: Cultural Heritage

Florence, Alabama

8:00AM

Breakfast at Trowbridge's Ice Cream & Sandwiches

Enjoy delicious breakfast sandwiches and indulge in ice cream for a sweet start.
Drive to Florence (approx. 1 hour).
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore the Kennedy-Douglass Center for the Arts

Discover local art exhibitions and attend workshops in this vibrant art center.
Drive to the center.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at 360 Grille

Dine at this revolving restaurant with stunning views of the Tennessee River.
Drive to 360 Grille.
USD35, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Frank Lloyd Wright Rosenbaum House

Tour this iconic house designed by the famous architect and learn about its history.
Drive to the house.
USD12, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Stroll along the Tennessee River

Enjoy a peaceful walk along the scenic riverbank, taking in the natural beauty.
Walk to the river.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Pie Factory

End your day with delicious homemade pies and comfort food in a casual atmosphere.
Drive to The Pie Factory.
USD20, 2 hours
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Day 13: Art and Music

Florence, Alabama

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Shoppe

Start your day with delicious coffee and wonderful baked goods.
Walk to The Coffee Shoppe.
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Muscle Shoals Sound Studio

Take a guided tour to learn about the history of this legendary music studio.
Drive to the studio.
USD15, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ricatoni's Italian Grill

Enjoy hearty Italian dishes paired with a vibrant atmosphere.
Drive to Ricatoni's.
USD22, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore the W.C. Handy Home

Visit the birthplace of the 'Father of the Blues' and learn about his life.
Drive to the home.
USD10, 1 hour

4:00PM

Stroll through the University of North Alabama

Enjoy the beautiful campus and perhaps catch a local performance.
Drive to the university.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Brick

Savor contemporary dishes and delightful desserts in this stylish eatery.
Drive to The Brick.
USD30, 2 hours
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Day 14: Return to Birmingham

Birmingham, Alabama

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Breakfast Club

Start your day with classic breakfast favorites in a friendly setting.
Drive back to Birmingham (approx. 1.5 hours).
USD12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Final Visit to the Birmingham Botanical Gardens

Reflect on your journey as you stroll through beautiful landscapes and gardens.
Drive to the gardens.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Fish Market Restaurant

Indulge in fresh seafood dishes in a classic setting with views of the water.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD25, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore the Birmingham Museum of Art

Conclude your trip by exploring stunning collections that highlight diverse art forms.
Drive to the museum.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Farewell Dinner at The Firebirds Wood Fired Grill

Enjoy one last meal with a focus on grilled and sustainably sourced dishes.
Drive to Firebirds.
USD40, 2 hours
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