Anniston

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Anniston's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Anniston Museum of Natural History where you can witness fascinating exhibits that showcase the region's rich biodiversity. After soaking in the history, stroll around the charming streets of the historic district, admiring the architecture of the beautifully preserved buildings. Grab a delicious breakfast at a local café, enjoying some southern comfort food to fuel your day.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, head to the Berman Museum of World History to explore diverse artifacts and learn about the global cultures that have shaped our world. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby restaurant that offers a taste of local flavors. Take a walk in the picturesque Anniston City Meeting Center Park, where you can unwind amidst nature and perhaps catch a glimpse of local wildlife.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a well-known restaurant that serves classic southern cuisine, perfect for satisfying your taste buds. After dinner, catch a live performance at the Anniston City Meeting Center, where local artists often showcase their talents. Conclude your evening with a nightcap at a cozy bar, reflecting on the day's adventures.

day 2
Nature Trails and Outdoor Fun
morning
:

Begin your morning with a hearty breakfast before setting out to explore the scenic trails at the nearby Cheaha State Park, the highest point in Alabama. Enjoy the invigorating fresh air as you hike along well-marked paths, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Capture the beauty of nature with your camera while spotting local flora and fauna.

afternoon
:

After your hike, enjoy a packed lunch at one of the park's picnic areas while surrounded by the tranquility of nature. Post-lunch, try your hand at fishing or paddle boating on one of the park's serene lakes, giving you a chance to relax and unwind. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a mountain bike and explore the rugged terrain for an adrenaline rush.

evening
:

Return to Anniston just in time for dinner at a local eatery that specializes in fresh, farm-to-table dishes. After your meal, take a peaceful evening stroll through the park or downtown Anniston to enjoy the charming ambiance as the lights come on. Finally, settle in for a movie at a local cinema, immersing yourself in the latest film.

day 3
Cultural Immersion Day
morning
:

Kick off your day with breakfast at a quaint diner that offers a true taste of southern hospitality. Then, immerse yourself in local culture by visiting the Anniston Arts Council or any ongoing art exhibit in the area, appreciating the talents of local artists. Consider taking part in a workshop if available, allowing you to create your own piece of art.

afternoon
:

For lunch, try a popular local barbecue joint, relishing the smoky flavors of traditional southern barbecue. Afterward, visit the historic Alabama Theater to learn about its history and significance in the community, perhaps even catching a film if the timing aligns. Spend some time exploring the surrounding area, checking out unique shops and boutiques that showcase local craftsmanship.

evening
:

As the evening approaches, enjoy dinner at a restaurant that features live music, adding a lively atmosphere to your meal. After dinner, engage with the local community by attending a cultural event or festival if there’s one happening during your visit. Wind down your day with a stroll through the downtown area, appreciating the vibrant street art and friendly locals.

day 4
Family Fun at the Parks
morning
:

Start your family day with breakfast at a local café, where everyone can choose their favorite meal from a diverse menu. Then, head to the Chief Ladiga Trail, where the whole family can bike or walk along the paved paths surrounded by beautiful scenery. Stop at the playgrounds along the trail to let the kids burn off some energy.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the parks along the trail, allowing for some quality family time in nature. After lunch, visit the Anniston City Parks, where you can enjoy activities such as frisbee, soccer, or simply relaxing under the shade of the trees. If the weather permits, consider a fun trip to the local splash pad to cool off and enjoy some water play.

evening
:

As the sun begins to set, treat the family to dinner at a family-friendly restaurant that offers a wide variety of options for all ages. After dinner, take the kids to a local ice cream shop for a sweet treat to cap off the day. Finally, enjoy a family movie night back at your accommodation, sharing laughs over your favorite film.

day 5
History and Heritage Exploration
morning
:

Begin with breakfast at a historic diner in Anniston, savoring traditional southern breakfast staples. Then, embark on a guided tour of the Anniston Civil Rights and Heritage Trail, which highlights key locations significant to the civil rights movement in the area. Engage with knowledgeable guides and learn about the impactful stories of local heroes.

afternoon
:

For lunch, visit a local café that serves dishes inspired by the region's rich history. Afterward, continue your exploration by visiting the Old Union Station and the surrounding historical landmarks, taking time to appreciate the architecture and historical significance of the sites. Consider visiting the nearby Fort McClellan, where you can learn about its military history and explore some of the old structures.

evening
:

Savor a delicious dinner at a restaurant known for its southern cuisine, where you can reflect on the day's historical insights. After dinner, attend a community lecture or storytelling event focusing on local history to deepen your understanding. Finish your day with a leisurely walk around downtown, appreciating the historical charm under the stars.

day 6
Adventure in Nature
morning
:

Fuel up with breakfast at a local bakery, enjoying fresh pastries and coffee to kickstart your adventure. Next, embark on a morning of rock climbing at the nearby Cheaha Mountain, where you can challenge yourself with breathtaking views as your reward. If you're a beginner, consider booking a guided climbing session to learn from experienced instructors.

afternoon
:

After your climbing session, have a packed lunch in the shade of the trees, taking in the scenery around you. Spend the afternoon exploring the various hiking trails in the area, perhaps trying out a new trail that leads to hidden waterfalls or scenic overlooks. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, as the area is home to various species that can be spotted along the way.

evening
:

As evening approaches, head back to Anniston for a dinner at a local steakhouse, where you can indulge in a hearty meal. After dinner, relax at a local pub where you might find live music or trivia night, making for an entertaining evening. Wind down the night by sharing stories of the day's adventures with newfound friends.

day 7
Shopping and Local Cuisine
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a popular local brunch spot known for its unique takes on classic dishes. After breakfast, spend your morning wandering through the local farmers' market, where you can sample fresh produce and artisanal goods from nearby farms. Engage with local vendors to learn more about their products and the stories behind them.

afternoon
:

For lunch, pick up some farm-fresh ingredients and head to a nearby park for a picnic, enjoying the fruits of your morning's labor. After lunch, explore the downtown shops and boutiques, searching for unique souvenirs and handmade crafts to take home. Don't forget to stop by a local candy shop to satisfy your sweet tooth with some regional confections.

evening
:

As the evening sets in, enjoy dinner at a trendy restaurant that focuses on local ingredients and innovative dishes. Afterward, treat yourself to a dessert at an acclaimed bakery known for its artisanal sweets. Finish the night with a leisurely stroll through the downtown area, taking in the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps catching a glimpse of local street performers.

day 8
Exploring the Great Outdoors
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at a café that offers hearty, homemade options to fuel your outdoor adventure. After breakfast, head out for a guided birdwatching tour at the local wildlife refuge, where you can observe a variety of species in their natural habitat. Bring binoculars and enjoy the tranquility of the early morning as the sun rises over the landscape.

afternoon
:

Post birdwatching, enjoy a picnic lunch at a scenic spot within the refuge, taking in the beauty around you. Spend the afternoon hiking the various trails, each offering unique views and opportunities to connect with nature. Keep your camera ready, as you might encounter stunning vistas or wildlife along the way.

evening
:

As the day winds down, return to Anniston for a dinner at a local restaurant that features outdoor seating, allowing you to enjoy the pleasant evening air. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the nearby neighborhood to appreciate the charming homes and gardens, reflecting on your day outdoors. End your evening with a cozy nightcap at a local bar or a quiet café, sharing your favorite moments of the day.

day 9
Local Festivals and Events
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local diner, where you can sample traditional southern dishes. Check the local event calendar to see if there's a festival happening, and head over to enjoy the festivities. Participate in activities, workshops, or demonstrations that highlight the culture and creativity of the community.

afternoon
:

For lunch, grab a bite from one of the food stalls at the festival, where local vendors showcase their culinary talents. Spend the afternoon enjoying live music, art exhibits, and unique crafts from local artisans, immersing yourself in the vibrant community atmosphere. Engage with locals and fellow visitors, making new friends along the way.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a restaurant that features local ingredients and seasonal specials. After dinner, return to the festival for evening entertainment, which may include live performances or fireworks, creating a festive atmosphere. Wrap up your day with a walk through the festival grounds, soaking in the lively energy and connections made throughout the day.

Discover Anniston

Read more in our Anniston 2025 Travel Guide.

Anniston Travel Guide