Discover Decatur, Alabama: A Holiday Guide for Guests

Lillie Beth Warner • Dec 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


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!


By Lillie Beth Warner 10 May, 2024
Point Mallard Water Park Officially Opens on May 25th! Don't miss out on all the fun!
By Lillie Beth Warner 03 May, 2024
The annual dragon boat races will kick off on May 11th for a great cause!
By Lillie Beth Warner 26 Apr, 2024
Don't miss the Alabama Bass Trail Tournament Series on Wheeler Lake on April 27th!
By Lillie Beth Warner 19 Apr, 2024
Learn about the golfing treasures of Morgan County, where pristine courses and warm hospitality make for an unforgettable experience on the green.
By Lillie Beth Warner 12 Apr, 2024
Get hooked on fishing this April as two large fishing tournaments come to Decatur!
By Lillie Beth Warner 05 Apr, 2024
Experience Decatur's Spring Concert Series with Free Music, Family Fun, and Community Vibes Await!
By Lillie Beth Warner 29 Mar, 2024
Step into Decatur's past every Saturday in April at 10:00 AM! Join us for our Free Walking Tours and uncover the hidden treasures of our city's history and architecture.
By Lillie Beth Warner 22 Mar, 2024
Discover the Art of Topiary with former contributing editor for Martha Stewart Ken Selody on April 4th, 2024 at The Cupboard!
By Lillie Beth Warner 15 Mar, 2024
Downtown Decatur shines as it welcomes a new hotel, a parking deck, a new restaurant, and new residences adding to its dynamic charm!
By Lillie Beth Warner 01 Mar, 2024
Meet the incredible Ambassadors that help showcase Decatur & Morgan County!
More Posts
Share by: