Free Guided Walking Tours Coming Every Weekend in April
Come and enjoy a free guided walking tour though historic Decatur each weekend in April!
Have you ever explored Decatur's Historic District? Now is your chance to with Decatur's free guided walking tours. Decatur has a rich and colorful history dating back to the early 1800s, and next month, locals and visitors are invited to take part in a casual stroll winding through the Old Decatur, Old Town, and Albany historic districts for a glimpse into the city’s heritage. Organized by Decatur Morgan County Tourism and the Morgan County Historical Society, the April Walking Tours are held each Saturday in the month of April with each one featuring a different route, theme, and tour guide. It is sure to be a great educational experience and fun for the whole family.
The April Walking Tours are scheduled for April 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29. Each tour begins at 10 a.m. and lasts approximately one hour. Knowledgeable guides will escort participants through historic neighborhoods and landmarks, where they will share the city’s history and entertaining accounts of the city’s storied past. You won't want to miss a single one of these incredible free tours.
The Tour Schedule
April 1: History of New Decatur/Albany, led by John Allison, Morgan County Archivist
New Decatur/Albany was established during an economic boom of the late 1880s and merged with Old Decatur in 1927. The tour covers what makes this historic district so intriguing: the once very successful Buchheit Bottling Works and other commercial enterprises, stories of fires, and more. The tour begins at the Alabama Center for the Arts, located at 133 2nd Avenue NE.
April 8: History of Bank Street, led by local historian Phil Wirey
The tour explores interesting facts, legends, and stories behind the businesses and landmarks that line up and down Bank Street. The tour begins at the Old State Bank, located at 925 Bank Street NE.
April 15: People and Places in Old Town Decatur, led by Dr. Wylheme Ragland
During this inspiring tour, hear stories of the many noteworthy African Americans who championed individual liberties and equality in Decatur’s oldest neighborhood. The tour begins at Turner-Surles Community Center, located at the corner of Vine and Sycamore streets.
April 22: Historic Residential Architecture in Old Decatur, led by Dr. Caroline Swope, historic preservation specialist for the city of Decatur
The tour focuses on the architectural history and neighborhood stories of the old Decatur Historic District. The tour begins at Frazier Park, located at 309 Cherry Street NE.
April 29: Garden Tour, led by the Historic Decatur Association
The public is invited to a peak into some of the residents’ private gardens. The tour begins at Westminster Presbyterian Church, located at 801 Jackson St, SE.
More information
All tours are free, family-friendly and involve easy walking. Reservations are not required, and tours are held rain or shine.
Alabama is the only state in the nation to hold statewide, simultaneous walking tours. Tens of thousands of people have participated in the walking tours ever since the beginning of the program almost two decades ago.
For more information, call Suzanne Langdon with Decatur Parks and Recreation at 256-280-1666.
Start Your Night at 609 Social Market
Kick off your New Year’s Eve celebrations at 609 Social Market, a trendy and bustling spot that’s perfect for starting your evening. This hot-spot offers innovative cuisine, hand-crafted cocktails, and a lively atmosphere that will set the tone for the rest of your night. Whether you're looking to enjoy fresh seafood, perfectly cooked meats, or shareable appetizers, 609 has something for everyone. And for the health-conscious party-goers, you can even indulge in one of four delicious, vibrant salads.
Pair your meal with a creative cocktail from their extensive menu or a glass of wine to get into the festive spirit. If you’re looking to make a reservation, make sure to book early—this place fills up quickly on New Year's Eve!
3 Dinner Seating Times for NYE (5:30,7:00,8:30)
Call 256-938-8350 for Reservations
Pre-Game at Hailos Boutique: Tile and Toast
After you’ve had your fill of delicious food, head over to Hailos Boutique for an exclusive pre-game cocktail hour. For just $25, you can purchase a "Tile and Toast" ticket, giving you access to an array of appetizers, Prosecco, and even non-alcoholic beverages. While you sip and snack, you’ll have the chance to shop the top brands available downtown, making it the perfect place to pick up a New Year's Eve outfit or treat yourself to something special.
The vibe is energetic, the drinks are flowing, and you’re just steps away from your next adventure. This lively stop will get you in the perfect mood for your final destination of the night!
The Main Event: Banksy’s Bets on Broadway Casino Night
Now, the real fun begins! Head over to Banksy, the River City's newest event venue, for the highlight of your night: Banksy Bets on Broadway. This Times Square-inspired casino night is one you won’t want to miss. Picture yourself stepping into a glamorous world filled with Blackjack, Roulette, Craps, and Poker—don’t worry, the play money keeps your wallet safe, but the fun and thrill are real!
Indulge in delicious heavy hors d’oeuvres with a New York City twist, while live music sets the tone for the evening. The excitement will build up as you roll the dice, place your bets, and win fabulous door prizes. As the clock strikes midnight, gather with fellow revelers to watch the iconic ball drop on a big screen and raise your glass for a champagne toast to 2025.
