Discover Decatur, Alabama: A Holiday Guide for Guests
Lillie Beth Warner • December 22, 2023
Do you have friends or family coming to visit this holiday season? We have something for everyone!
The holiday season is a magical time to share with loved ones, and if you find yourself hosting friends and family in Decatur, Alabama, you're in for a treat! From art lovers to foodies, history buffs to outdoor enthusiasts, Decatur offers a diverse range of activities and attractions to suit every taste. Here's your ultimate guide to making their visit unforgettable.
For the Art Lovers
- Carnegie Visual Arts Center: Discover an artistic oasis at the Carnegie Visual Arts Center in the heart of Decatur. This historic gem, once a Carnegie Library, now hosts compelling exhibitions featuring regional and national artists, offering a diverse range of visual experiences and educational programs that celebrate creativity.
- MoCo Mural Trail: Explore Decatur's streets and immerse yourself in the MoCo Mural Trail, a captivating outdoor gallery showcasing stunning murals. These vibrant artworks, each with its own unique story, weave tales of local culture and heritage, enriching the city's landscape with vivid colors and captivating designs.
- MoCo Art Trail: Journey along the MoCo Art Trail, guiding you through galleries, studios, and public art displays across Morgan County. Delight in the diverse artistic expressions on display, from contemporary marvels to traditional masterpieces, providing an enriching tapestry of the region's artistic richness.
- Alabama Center for the Arts Gallery: Experience an combination of innovation and creativity at the Alabama Center for the Arts Gallery. This dynamic space showcases a captivating array of sculptures, paintings, and photography, offering a glimpse into the diverse visions of Alabama's talented artists. Explore thought-provoking exhibitions that reflect the cultural heritage and artistic brilliance of the region.
For the History Buff
- Step Back in Time: Visit the historic housing districts of Old Decatur and Albany and relish in the preserved antebellum homes and charming streetscapes.
- Blast from the Past: Experience the rich history of the area at the Old State Bank, a stunning Greek Revival-style building that stands as a symbol of Decatur's past. This 190 year old building is the oldest bank building in Alabama!
- Watch the trains pass by at the Historic Decatur Union Train Depot & Railroad Museum: Take a tour of the beautiful restored train depot in the heart of Downtown Decatur. This museum is great for all ages combining history and fun. You can see the train depot's model train set and even play with their holiday display.
- Visit the Morgan County Archives: This is a great stop for anyone interested in local history. You can explore the Scottsboro boys exhibit and learn all about the history of Morgan County over the years.
- Visit the U.S. Veterans Memorial Park: Pay homage to military heroes at this site honoring veterans, providing a serene space for reflection and gratitude.
For the Foodie
- Culinary Delights: Enjoy local dining experiences ranging from Southern comfort food to international flavors, with options like Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q, Simp McGhee's, Alfono's Pizza, Francessco's Italian, and so much more.
- Decatur's Hidden Gems: Explore Decatur Locals favorites places like The RailYard, or the Brick Deli!
- Try Delicious Treats: If you or your party has a sweet tooth make sure to check out local sweet shops like Mel's Sweet Treats, Tennessee Valley Pecan Company, or Morgan Price Candy Company!
For the Kids or Kids at Heart
- Family-Friendly Fun: Visit the Cook Museum of Natural Science for an educational experience with your friends and family. This State-of-the-art museum is perfect for an afternoon exploring the different animals & wildlife in North America.
- Visit GoFAR USA Park: Take a stroll through the Christmas lights in the forest and around the farm at GoFAR USA Park. Hang out around the campfires, make some smores, zip line though the pines, climb the rockwall, shoot some paintballs, and enjoy a Christmas movie. See our calendar for scheduled nights!
For the Outdoor Enthusiast
- Natural Escapes: Discover the beauty of Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge, hike the trails of the Wheeler Wildlife Refuge, or enjoy scenic walks along the Tennessee River.
- Outdoor Activities: Engage in outdoor activities like fishing, boating, or picnicking at various parks scattered across the city.
For Everyone
Decatur is a city filled with warmth, charm, and a welcoming atmosphere. No matter your interests, there's something to captivate everyone in your group during the holidays. With its unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty, Decatur, Alabama, promises a memorable holiday experience for all who visit. Enjoy your time and make the most out of your holiday in Decatur & Morgan County!
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In the heart of Old Town Decatur, Alabama, First Missionary Baptist Church stands as a beacon of resilience, faith, and history. Established in 1866 by 21 formerly enslaved individuals, the church has not only served as a spiritual home for its congregation but also as a significant symbol of African American perseverance and architectural heritage. The church's beginnings trace back to the home of Jane Young, where its founding members gathered under the leadership of Rev. Alfred Peters, the first pastor. Initially, services were held in a modest storefront along the Tennessee River, embodying the dedication and commitment of its members despite limited resources. In 1873, the congregation took a significant step forward by purchasing a building from a white Methodist congregation, establishing a more permanent place of worship.First Missionary Baptist Church's current home, constructed in 1921, is a masterpiece of Neoclassical Romanesque architecture, designed by the renowned Wallace Augustus Rayfield. Rayfield, a trailblazing African American architect, is best known for designing the historic 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, which became a tragic yet powerful symbol of the Civil Rights Movement following the 1963 bombing. His influence is evident in the thick brick walls, rounded arches, towering structures, and striking stained-glass windows of First Missionary Baptist Church, which shares design elements with its Birmingham counterpart. Throughout its history, First Missionary Baptist Church has been more than a place of worship; it has been a pillar of the African American community in Decatur. During the era of segregation and Jim Crow laws, the church became a hub of resistance and advocacy. Notably, during the infamous Scottsboro Boys trials of the 1930s, the church provided a safe space for meetings between defense attorneys and prospective jurors, demonstrating its commitment to justice and equality. While the church remains a cornerstone of Decatur's African American community, it has faced its share of struggles as years have gone by. Despite these challenges, the congregation remains steadfast in preserving this historic landmark. Efforts are underway to restore and maintain the building, with hopes of transforming it into a destination for Civil Rights education, historical tours, architectural enthusiasts and more. First Missionary Baptist Church is more than just a structure; it is a living testament to faith, endurance, and cultural heritage. Its story, interwoven with the broader narrative of African American history in the South, deserves recognition and preservation for future generations. With ongoing community support, this historic church can continue to serve as an enduring symbol of resilience and progress.
Decatur Now and Then
If you're looking for an unforgettable way to ring in the New Year in the River City, look no further! We’ve put together the ultimate New Year’s Eve itinerary to ensure you have an evening full of amazing food, drinks, and excitement. From a fantastic dinner to a lively pre-game cocktail hour, and an unforgettable casino night, the River City has it all.
Over the years, Decatur, Alabama, has become a haven for nature lovers every January. The annual Festival of the Cranes draws spectators from near and far to marvel at the majestic Sandhill and Whooping Cranes as they make their winter migration south
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Friday Night Lights in MoCo Pictured: Danielle Gibson, DMCT President/CEO and her oldest son Noah Gibson who is a Senior this year
Watch as Re-enactors perform over Labor Day Weekend at Point Mallard Park!
