Alabama is home to many places that are great day trip destinations. One place in particular is Fort Payne. What many people don’t realize is that Fort Payne has a lot to offer. Sure, it might not be one of the biggest cities in Alabama, but it still offers a wide variety of things to see and do. For everything you need to know about Fort Payne, including why it’s a great day trip destination, take a look below.
In these uncertain times, please keep safety in mind and consider adding destinations to your bucket list at a later date.
Fort Payne, which happens to be the county seat of DeKalb County, is located atop Lookout Mountain in northwest Alabama. It is the ideal destination for a day trip!
This charming mountain town, with a population of less than 15,000, is known as the “official sock capital of the world” due to its history of sock-making. However, that’s not the only thing Fort Payne is known for.
If you plan to spend the day in Fort Payne and love the outdoors, you will definitely want to visit Little River Canyon National Preserve. Covering more than 15,000 acres, this preserve is one of Alabama’s most beautiful outdoor sites.
Little River Canyon National Preserve, 4322 Little River Trail #100, Fort Payne, AL 35967, USA
While exploring Little River Canyon National Preserve, you’ll want to visit Little River Falls. Little River Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Alabama. It is also a popular swimming spot in warm weather.
Little River Falls, Alabama 35973, USA
If you’re a train buff and love history, you’ll want to visit the Fort Payne Depot Museum. This historic depot, which was built in 1891, features many memorabilia from the early days of the Fort Payne Railroad.
Fort Payne Depot Museum, 105 5th St NE, Fort Payne, AL 35967, USA
If you love country music, you can’t leave Fort Payne without visiting the ALABAMA Fan Club and Museum. This local museum celebrates the country music group ALABAMA and also displays several memorabilia including guitars, awards, photos and more. ALABAMA members are from Fort Payne.
Alabama Fan Club And Museum, 101 Glenn Blvd SW, Fort Payne, AL 35967, USA
A popular landmark in Fort Payne is the WB Davis Hosiery Mill. This historic mill opened in 1884 during the city’s manufacturing boom. Today it is not operated as a mill. Instead, it’s home to two popular businesses: a restaurant and an antiques mall.
WB Davis Hosiery Mill, 151 8th St NE, Fort Payne, AL 35967, USA
Vintage 1889 is the restaurant housed inside the historic mill. It opened in 2013 and has been serving delicious meals ever since. Vintage 1889 also offers one of the largest beer selections in the region.
Cafe Vintage 1889, 151 8th St NE, Fort Payne, AL 35967, USA
Also inside the building is Big Mill Co. Craftsmen & Antiques. This antique mall sells everything from vintage glassware to antique furniture. After finishing your meal at Vintage 1889, be sure to head over to Big Mill Co. Artisans & Antiques. There is something for every taste.
Big Mill Antique Mall, 151 8th St NE, Fort Payne, AL 35967, USA
For more information on Fort Payne, Alabama, you’ll want to take a look at the city’s official website.
Have you ever taken a day trip to Fort Payne, Alabama? If yes, what did you see and do? Let us know in the comments below.
Gadsden, which is just 40 minutes from Fort Payne, is another great destination for a day trip to Alabama. For more information on Gadsden, be sure to check out the following article: Visiting this Alabama town is like hitting the jackpot.
Address: WB Davis Hosiery Mill, 151 8th St NE, Fort Payne, AL 35967, USA
Address: Big Mill Antique Mall, 151 8th St NE, Fort Payne, AL 35967, USA
Address: Cafe Vintage 1889, 151 8th St NE, Fort Payne, AL 35967, USA
Address: Little River Falls, Alabama 35973, USA
Address: Alabama Fan Club And Museum, 101 Glenn Blvd SW, Fort Payne, AL 35967, USA
Address: Little River Canyon National Preserve, 4322 Little River Trail #100, Fort Payne, AL 35967, USA
Address: Fort Payne Depot Museum, 105 5th St NE, Fort Payne, AL 35967, USA