CaliToday (18/11/2025): Just an hour’s drive from the bustling foodie scene of Birmingham, Alabama, lies a city that trades urban hustle for thundering waterfalls, historic streets, and the gentle flow of a grand river. Welcome to Gadsden, a city of 33,000 that feels like a discovery.
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| Water cascades in Noccalula Falls Park - photosounds/Shutterstock |
It proudly calls itself the original "City of Champions," a nickname that stuck in the 1950s after a local high school band won a national competition and the Little League team clinched a major trophy. But today, Gadsden is championing a new title: one of the Cotton State’s most picturesque, relaxing, and surprisingly captivating travel destinations.
Here’s why Gadsden is the stop you can't miss.
The Thundering Heart: Noccalula Falls Park
Your first stop must be Noccalula Falls Park, the city's undisputed crown jewel. The park is home to a breathtaking waterfall that plunges majestically into the Black Creek below.
This isn't just a quick photo-op; it's a 500-acre natural haven that has been drawing outdoor enthusiasts since 1953. The park is threaded with trails, making it a paradise for hiking, backpacking, and birding. You can even stay overnight at the park's campgrounds and cabins, lulled to sleep by the sound of running water.
While it’s tempting to spend your entire trip here, that would mean missing out on the rest of the city's charm.
A Walk Through Time: The Historic Downtown
The true surprise of Gadsden is its exceptionally walkable and evocative downtown, centered along the wide pavement of Broad Street. This district is a treasure trove of local culture, history, and shopping, with most attractions just a few blocks apart.
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| Streetview of Downtown Gadsden, Alabama, in the daytime - Buyenlarge/Getty Images |
A Dose of Culture: Start at the Gadsden Museum of Art, a cornerstone of the city's creative scene since 1965 (and admission is free). Nearby, the Mary G. Hardin Center for Cultural Arts serves as a vibrant hub for local artist exhibitions and performances. For those with little ones, the Imagination Place children's museum offers a creative and educational escape for kids ages 2 to 10.
The Thrill of the Hunt: Gadsden is a fantastic spot for antiquing. Prepare to lose a few hours in Dusty Things, a 6,000-square-foot emporium filled with striking artifacts and a massive book collection. For a more refined experience, the Stone Market offers a European-style boutique with wine, gourmet foods, and hand-painted dinnerware.
Local Flavor: After a day of exploring, join the locals at Big D's Game Changer Sports Bar & Grill. It's the go-to spot to catch a game, grab a casual bite, and enjoy live music several nights a week.
The Gentle Giant: Exploring the Coosa River
If Noccalula Falls is the city's dramatic heart, the Coosa River is its peaceful soul.
To enjoy it, head to Riverwalk Park at Coosa Landing. This stunning, well-maintained stretch features a dedicated boardwalk perfect for a sunset stroll or a morning jog right alongside the water. You'll find pavilions for picnicking, plenty of shade, and several fishing piers and boat-docking areas for those looking to get on the water.
Your Gadsden Travel Planner
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| Noccalula Falls park welcomes visitors to Gadsden - Jacqueline Nix/Getty Images |
Getting There
While Gadsden has a regional airport, it primarily serves charter and general aviation. For commercial flights, your best bet is flying into Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM), just a one-hour drive away, or Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), which is roughly a two-hour drive.
Where to Stay
For Nature Lovers: The campgrounds and cabins at Noccalula Falls Park are the clear choice. They are well-equipped with a store, pool, and renovated bathhouses.
For City Comfort: To stay in the heart of the action, the Gadsden Inn and Suites in downtown offers comfortable rooms and complimentary breakfast, putting the city's attractions right at your doorstep.
The Perfect Road Trip Stop
Gadsden isn't just a worthy destination in its own right; it's also the perfect stop on a classic Alabama road trip. A drive from this land-locked river city in the north down to the underrated coastal city of Gulf Shores makes for a perfect slice of "Sweet Home Alabama," connecting the state's highlands to its gorgeous beaches.