If you’re new to The University of Alabama, there’s so much to see and do in Tuscaloosa! Here’s a straightforward guide to some local favorites and hidden gems every student and parent should check out.
Mirrored Elephant
- Location: 421 Queen City Ave, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
- About: Standing 12 feet tall and decorated with 20,000 disco tiles, this eye-catching piece took 350 hours to complete. It’s often used for special events.
Waysider
- Location: 1512 Greensboro Ave, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
- Hours: Tue-Fri: 5:30 AM – 1:30 PM; Sat: 5:30 AM – 12 PM; Sun: 6:30 AM – 1 PM
- About: Waysider is the oldest restaurant in Tuscaloosa, famous for its breakfast. Coach Bear Bryant loved dining here and recommended the country ham!
- Learn more on Facebook.
Walk of Champions
- Location: 920 Paul W Bryant Dr, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
- About: This brick-paved walkway honors coaches and players, making it a key spot for football fans. Enjoy the pre-game tradition as the Crimson Tide team enters before home games.
Gorgas Library
- Location: 711 Capstone Dr, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487
- Hours: Mon-Thurs: 7:30 AM – 12 AM; Fri: 7:30 AM – 8 PM; Sat: 10 AM – 8 PM; Sun: 11 AM – 12 AM
- About: Opened in 1939, Gorgas Library stands on the site of the original library, which was lost during the Civil War. Its Classical Revival style is stunning to behold.
- Discover more on the library’s website.
Gallettes
- Location: 1021 University Blvd, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
- Hours: Mon-Thurs: 6 PM – 2 AM; Fri-Sat: 6 PM – 3 AM (extra hours on game days)
- About: This hidden bar is popular on game days, known for its Yellow Hammer drink served in a souvenir cup!
- Follow them on Instagram or Facebook.
Marr’s Spring
- Location: 851-899 Campus Dr, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
- About: Once the main water source for the university, this beautiful spring is now a serene spot for students to relax and enjoy nature.
Alabama Museum of Natural History
- Location: 427 Sixth Ave, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487
- Hours: Mon-Sat: 10 AM – 4:30 PM
- About: As the oldest museum in Alabama, it showcases the state’s natural diversity. Don’t miss the famous Hodges Meteorite!
- More info on the museum’s website.
Chuck’s Fish
- Location: 508 Greensboro Ave, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
- Hours: Sun: 5 PM – 9 PM; Mon-Thurs: 5 PM – 10 PM; Fri-Sat: 4 PM – 11 PM
- About: A seafood hotspot that sources fresh ingredients from its wholesale market. Their sushi bar is led by renowned chef Yoshie Eddings.
- Check it out on their website.
So, what are you waiting for? Start exploring Tuscaloosa’s gems today!