Apr 4, 20222 min read

TUSCALOOSA WITHOUT FOOTBALL Part 3

Updated: May 4, 2022

Today I want to conclude my Tuscaloosa series with a few more ideas of attractions and exceedingly pleasant ways to spend time while you're in the city.

Tuscaloosa is blessed with beautiful lakes, in addition to the Black Warrior River. Lake Tuscaloosa is the go-to spot for many locals, but they can also choose Lake Nicol, Harris Lake, or Hurricane Creek for boating, swimming, and all kinds of outdoor recreation. Picnic, anyone?

With the kiddoes in mind, take them to Mason's Place, a new, all-inclusive playground located in Sokol Park with plenty of Crimson Tide touches, such as a replica of Denny Chimes.

If you have particularly inquisitive children with you, the Children's Hands-On Museum on University Boulevard is filled with interactive exhibits and learning stations suitable for ages up to 13. Admission is $9 for ages 1-64, and it is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. For an additional museum, the Alabama Museum of Natural History is located inside Smith Hall on the University of Alabama campus. For that one, the hours are Monday through Saturday from 10:00 - 4:30, and admission is $2 for adults, $1 for students, and children 5 and under are free.

History buffs will enjoy a tour of the Jemison - Van de Graaf Mansion. It is one of the most elaborate houses built before the Civil War which miraculously managed to avoid destruction by invading Union troops. It was a private family residence from the time Robert Jemison, Jr. and his family moved in in 1863 until 1955. Afterward, it was used as a library, then offices for a publishing company, before being bought and turned into a museum.

Other Tuscaloosa buildings, in addition to the Jemison Mansion, that are under the Historic Tuscaloosa umbrella are: The Old Tavern, the Battle-Friedman House, the McGuire-Strickland House, and the Murphy African-American Museum. Three of these are available as venues for weddings and other events.