One of the South’s most intriguing states, Alabama occupies a significant place in the public consciousness, especially in connection to music, culture and the Civil Rights Movement. History aficionados will find a plethora of fascinating sites across the state, but this is also a magnificent region for nature lovers or outdoorsy explorers. Accommodation options range from charming B&Bs to sleek city hotels, fit for a whole host of tastes and budgets. Whilst many of the best places to stay in Alabama are in the state’s thriving cities, some of our favourite spots sit in more rural surroundings, overlooking expansive lakes or shaded by age-old oak trees.

Explore Montgomery — the state capital — and Birmingham to see key Civil Rights museums and monuments. Don’t miss the National Memorial for Peace & Justice and the Rosa Parks Museum in Montgomery, or the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute and Birmingham’s 16th Street Baptist Church. Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma is also iconic.

The university cities of Tuscaloosa and Auburn are known for buzzing student-led events and exhibitions, as well as the famed rivalry between the Crimson Tide and Auburn Tigers football teams. Do catch them in action, or make your way to waterfront Mobile for the legendary Mardi Gras celebrations. You’ll find charming historic residences, galleries, shops, eateries and music venues in each city.

Alabama is blessed with the beautiful Appalachian Mountains, as well as big lakes, rivers and a striking coastline. Head to state parks and preserves — including Oak Mountain State Park, Lake Guntersville State Park, Gulf State Park, Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge and Audubon Bird Sanctuary — for spectacular landscapes, wildlife-spotting and lots of activities. Talladega National Forest, Cheaha State Park and Cathedral Caverns State Park are also impressive. Try kayaking, canoeing, hiking, rock climbing, horse riding and mountain biking with the whole family.

For a glimpse of pre-Columbian Mississippian civilisation, venture to Moundville Archaeological Park, or see Alabama’s now-abandoned 19th-century state capital at Old Cahawba Archaeological Park. Whatever you choose to see and do, the best places to stay in Alabama promise a brilliant base for a captivating adventure.

The Best Places to Stay in Alabama

FOR City STYLE

• Elyton Hotel is the perfect pick for a central Birmingham base. The imposing 1909 façade hides swish, contemporary rooms with a fresh, funky feel. Expect superb views from the rooftop bar and restaurant, as well as easy access to the best of the city's museums, eateries and business district. For holidaymakers or business travellers.
• Hotel Indigo Tuscaloosa Downtown is a swish, riverside property with stylish modern rooms and suites, as well as a lively eatery and funky rooftop terrace overlooking the water. A trendy choice for families, couples or groups in Tuscaloosa's downtown area. Also dog-friendly.
• GunRunner Boutique Hotel is a stylish spot in downtown Florence. Think exposed brick walls, dark wood and leather furnishings and big statement bathrooms in 10 spacious suites. An industrial chic city pad with a standout spa.
• The Admiral Hotel is a glamorous Mobile property with swish Art Deco touches, and a monochrome colour palette offset by gold details. Expect sleek rooms and suites, an outdoor pool, a gym & a vibey restaurant & bar. A smart urban choice.
• The Stricklin Hotel promises a fun, sociable stay in central Florence, with a bustling restaurant, event space and onsite bowling alley. Rooms are elegant and contemporary, and the bar is especially lively on weekend evenings. For couples or groups of friends.

For University Visitors

• The Hotel at Auburn University offers smart guestrooms as well as a swimming pool, cinema and art gallery, all within walking distance of the university campus. Dine at the atmospheric Italian restaurant and catch local acts at the live music bar in the evenings. Great for those visiting university students and exploring Auburn.
• Hotel Capstone promises crisp, contemporary decor, as well as a gym, pool, meeting rooms, restaurant and bar. Set on the University of Alabama Campus in Tuscaloosa, this is a top pick for families and friends visiting students, or for those in town to catch a Crimson Tide football game.

FOR a HERITAGE B&B

• Malaga Inn offers airy, elegant rooms with hardwood floors, sash windows and antique furnishings in a beautiful 1862 townhouse. Kick back on the veranda, enjoy big Southern breakfasts and explore the heart of Mobile. Tours of the property are fantastic!
• Heritage House has beautiful period interiors, with lovely characterful touches chosen by the owner-managers. A delightful B&B in downtown Opelika. Very romantic.
• Magnolia Springs B&B was built in 1897, and now offers five guestrooms in a pretty part of Alabama near Gulf Shores. A romantic spot set between old oak trees, the inn has wood-panelled walls, a pretty porch and a lovely, laid-back feel. Cycle around the area or try kayaking on the nearby Magnolia River.
• Lake Guntersville B&B is locally known as the 'Hooper House', and was built in 1910. Perched on a hill overlooking 69,000-acre Lake Guntersville and the surrounding Appalachian Mountain foothills, this 7-bedroom inn is especially suited to quiet, outdoorsy couples. Boat parking is available.

For a Family-Friendly Inn

• Springwood Inn is a lovingly restored mansion house and cottage set within 20 acres of woodland near Anniston. Book the cottage if travelling as a group, or choose a grand room with Victorian period furnishings in the main house. Take long walks or bike rides, play tennis or cosy up in the library. Tranquil and relaxing.
• Fort Condé Inn is a 19th-century colonial building in well-preserved Fort Condé Village, near Mobile city centre. Choose from traditional guestrooms or multi-bedroom cottages — great for families or groups — feast at the new Bistro St. Emanuel, and stroll through a charming old Mobile neighbourhood. Also a wonderful wedding venue.
• Bama B&B is a beautiful colonnaded residence, dating back to 1823. The property's five guestrooms are decorated to reflect different historical eras, from old Hollywood to the Victorian age. Unwind on the porch or get competitive in the games room as a family! An intimate base within walking distance of the river and downtown Tuscaloosa.

For a Seaside Stay

• The Lodge at Gulf State Park is a sleek, contemporary hotel with an infinity pool, five dining options and expansive ocean views from big windows. Brilliant for couples, families, friends or groups, accommodation options include self-catering suites. Borrow the hotel's bikes, follow miles of hiking trails, try fishing or kick back on the beach. A nature-focused coastal escape in the impressive Gulf State Park. 
• Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa promises in indulgent stay on the shores of picturesque Mobile Bay. A big resort with award-winning golf and tennis, a private beach, multiple swimming pools and dining venues galore. Interiors are chic and glamorous, and there's heaps of fun to be had out on the water. For guests of all ages.

FOR LUXURY

• Grand Bohemian Hotel, Mountain Brook is a luxurious property with richly decorated interiors featuring patterned textiles and bold artwork. Set in Mountain Brook — close to Birmingham Zoo and the Botanical Gardens — this is a brilliant choice for an indulgent escape. With a soothing spa, swimming pool, rooftop restaurant, cookery school and art gallery, there's heaps for guests of all ages. Also great for weddings!

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY COTTAGE

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport, Tuscaloosa National Airport, Mobile Regional Airport or one of the region's smaller hubs, and travel by bus or car to your destination.
• Alabama is ideal for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Travel during the summer months (June to August) for the warmest weather, but do be aware that this is peak season. Come in the spring (April - May) or autumn (September - October) for fewer crowds and great hotel deals.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Browse our list of the best places to stay in Birmingham, AL.
• Expand your search to include all the best places to stay in neighbouring Mississippi.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.