Summer Drives, Backroad Vibes

When the heat sets in and the weekend hits, sometimes all you need is a tank of gas, a solid playlist, and a good old-fashioned road trip. It can be fun to take off cross-country, but you don’t have to go far to feel like you’ve gone somewhere. Whether you're looking for winding mountain roads, breezy coastal air, or just a change of scenery, Alabama’s got plenty of options for a quick summer escape that’s close to home. 

Start up north with a cruise along the Natchez Trace Parkway. The roads are smooth, the views are steady, and it’s a great route if you're heading toward Muscle Shoals or Florence. Grab a bite in Florence, walk the river, and check out the live music scene—it’s low-key, but always delivers.

For mountain air and a little quiet, Mentone never disappoints. You’ve probably been before, but there’s always something calming about those cool mornings and tiny shops. Hike around DeSoto Falls, stroll through the Moon Lake Village, or just hang out with a coffee and people-watch. Bonus points if you time it with one of their summer art or music festivals.

If water is more your thing, head south. Gulf Shores is the obvious pick, but if you’ve got flexibility, aim for a weekday and avoid the weekend crowds. Or skip the main drag altogether and hit up Dauphin Island for a slower pace! Spend a few hours at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab—it’s a fun, low-key way to learn about the Gulf ecosystem and cool off for a bit. Either way, bring a book and a cooler, and you’re all set.

And don’t sleep on the small towns in between. Fairhope’s always worth a stop—stroll the pier, grab lunch downtown, and you’ll remember why people love it so much. Or head out toward the Black Belt and explore spots like Marion or Camden for history, soul food, and fewer crowds. Then, you can make a detour to Gee’s Bend to see the famous quilts…and maybe even meet one of the artists behind them! These places may be small, but they’ve got stories—and they’re worth the trip. 

At the end of the day, it’s not about how far you go—it’s just about switching things up. Alabama’s got plenty of roads to ride and places to pause. So roll the windows down, bring snacks, and take the long way home. You never know what you'll find just a couple hours down the road!

Find more unique shopping destinations along the highway at www.guidetoalabama.com/shopping!