Built on the site of a fort, this small, scenic town in northeast Alabama has a lot to offer visitors.
Little River Canyon National Preserve is situated just outside the town, while a short hike brings you to Lookout Mountain in the DeSoto State Park. Visit any of the large number of waterfalls in the area, including Lost Falls, Martha’s Falls, and Grace’s High Falls.
Here, you’ll be able to enjoy a range of outdoor activities, from fishing, swimming, and whitewater rafting to hiking and abseiling.
If you’re looking for a way to spice things up, head to True Adventure Sports, a full-scale outfitter that offers guided excursions, lodging, and all kinds of gear for individuals and groups.
Hungry travelers will also be delighted by the variety of dining options in and around town, which include Vintage 1889, Jefferson’s, and the Santa Fe Cattle Co.
Looking for more ideas? Check out our comprehensive list of suggestions below.
The 17 Most Popular Things To Do In Fort Payne, Alabama
17. Hosiery Museum
3.0 (1 review)
The museum is next to Hunt Hall and is home to several exhibits that document the history of Fort Payne and its booming sock industry. One of the biggest remaining mills in the area that are still operational is the Davis Hosiery Mill. There is a good reason why Fort Payne is known as the sock capital of the US.
Credit: Jimmy Emerson, DVM, License, Flickr
Location: Fort Payne AL
Web Address: https://fortpaynemainstreet.org/attractions/
16. Fort Payne City Lake
4.0 (2 reviews)
This is one of the top attractions in the area for fishing. There are boat ramps and bank fishing facilities. The area is family-friendly and is protected by the local municipality.
15. Screaming Eagle Aerial Adventures at Desoto Falls State Park
4.7 (6 reviews)
This canopy zipline promises a great thrill. The safety standards are excellent so fun is guaranteed. The zipline can be fun for the whole family as long as weight restrictions are met.
Tel: 256 886 3761
Address: Desoto Parkway NE, Fort Payne, Alabama
Web Address: https://desotozipline.com
14. Manitou Cave
4.3 (7 reviews)
The ancient geological cave has rich history and is a hidden treasure in the county. The cave is next to Great Spirit Mountain and inside the save are some Native American wall carvings. There is even a gentle little stream flowing through the caves and the Grand Hall.
Credit: Mandy Nobles, Google Maps
13. Republic Lake
4.6 (7 reviews)
This Lake is technically a reservoir. It is a favorite fishing spot. Fly fishing and shore fishing is allowed. There are boat ramps and several piers and docks. There is a picnic area and the area is family friendly.
Credit: Daniel Hodge, Google Maps
12. Sallie Howard Memorial Baptist Church
4.8 (10 reviews)
On top of the Lookout Mountain is the Sallie Howard Memorial. Colonel Milford Howard built the memorial chapel for his wife, Sallie. The chapel is functional and hosts religious services every Sunday. It is also popular for weddings.
Credit: Toby McKeehan, Google Maps
Location: Howards Chapel Cemetery Mentone AL
11. Fort Payne Cabin Historic Site
4.4 (44 reviews)
This site is a historic part of the Trail of Tears, but unfortunately all that remains of this site is the foundation and the chimney. The cabin itself stood for 125 years before being demolished in 1946. The property was bought from the Mitchell family in 2002.
Credit: Thomson200, License, Wikimedia commons
Location: 106 4th Street Fort Payne AL
Tel: 256 845 6888
Web Address: http://landmarksdekalbal.org/preserving-dekalb-county-alabama-landmarks/the-old-cabin-site/
10. Indian Falls
4.7 (86 reviews)
Indian Falls can be reached via one of many hiking trails in the area. You will follow the creek to the top of the waterfall. There is also a natural rock shelter that can be explored. If you carry on with the trail and you have children or dogs with you, we recommend that you keep a close eye as the water is quite treacherous here.
Location: 7104 Desoto Pkwy NE Fort Payne AL
9. Mentone Brow Park
4.8 (263 reviews)
This is a public park where you can get a view of Lookout Mountain. There is a short walking path, great sunset views, a pavilion, and an overlook.
Credit: Cynthia King, Google Maps
Location: 200 286 N Cool Street Mentone AL
8. Alabama Walking Park
4.6 (456 reviews)
This is one of the newer state parks in the area. You will find it behind the Depot Museum. There are two large playgrounds divided by age of the child. On the main walking trail is a fitness station for adults as well. Alabama Walking Park is great for all ages. As a new park it is quickly rising in popularity in the Fort Payne area.
Location: 151 5th Street NE Fort Payne AL
Tel: 256 844 6571
Web Address: http://fortpayne.org/area-attractions/city-parks
Our Top picks
7. Lost Falls Trailhead
4.5 (25 reviews)
This trail and the falls are within the Desoto State Park. You can expect more than one waterfall and several hiking trails. There are a number of attractions to see along the way on this trail.
Credit: jim catalfamo, Google Maps
Location: Desoto Pkwy Fort Payne AL
6. Fort Payne Depot Museum
4.5 (35 reviews)
The beautiful pink sandstone Depot Museum is a definite must-see when you visit Fort Payne. The Alabama Great Southern Railroad opened the Depot in 1891. The exhibits and artifacts on display today have a lot of historical significance. There are also some interactive exhibits.
Credit: Chris Pruitt, License, Wikimedia commons
Location: 105 5th Street NE Fort Payne AL
Tel: 256 845 5714
5. Cloudmont Ski Resort
4.2 (46 reviews)
This ski resort can cater to any skill level and provides pony-lifts to get you up the mountain. There are instructors on staff who can even assist first-time skiers. The Cloudmont Ski Resort is ideal for nature lovers who want a proper taste of winter in Fort Payne.
Credit: Paul Styslinger, Google Maps
Location: 721 Co Road 614 Mentone AL
Tel: 256 634 4344
Web Address: http://cloudmont.com/
4. DeSoto Falls
4.8 (330 reviews)
The DeSoto Falls recreation area is open for camping. The natural beauty and brilliant hiking trails in the area offer a great way to take a break from a busy and stressful life. The DeSoto Falls trail provides views of two waterfalls along the way. Adjacent to the campground is the Frogtown Creek which is a popular Fort Payne spot for trout fishing.
Credit: NealVickers, License, Wikimedia commons
3. Alabama Fan Club And Museum
4.6 (424 reviews)
The Alabama band is about as famous here as the state itself. With at least one album inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame, this country music sensation is celebrated in Fort Payne. This fan club and museum and fan club are an integral part of local history and a definitely stop on your list of Fort Payne things to do.
Credit: J. Stephen Conn, License, Flickr
Location: 101 Glenn Blvd SW Fort Payne AL
Tel: 256 845 1646
Web Address: https://thealabamaband.com/
2. DeSoto State Park
4.8 (1,957 reviews)
The DeSoto State Park is a truly beautiful mature forested area in Fort Payne that offers up anything from rock climbing, to a selection of mountain biking and hiking trails that lead to a number of different waterfalls. Nature lovers are drawn to the fragrant wildflowers and breathtaking nature preserves within the state parks on our list.
Location: 7104 Desoto Pkwy NE Fort Payne AL
Tel: 256 845 0051
Web Address: https://alapark.com/parks/desoto-state-park
1. Little River Canyon National Preserve
4.8 (2,042 reviews)
As the name suggests, the Little River Canyon National Preserve exists in and around the Little River Canyon area in Fort Payne. The Little River Canyon National Preserve is adjacent to DeSoto State Park and together make quite a gem in Alabama’s crown. There is a popular swimming hole where visitors can enjoy swimming within the park, natural benches, hiking and biking trails throughout the park, and horseback riding in certain areas. Engage with the certified mountain guides who can provide expert advice to rock climbers, hikers, and swimmers alike. Even the Jacksonville State University have research groups active in this park and in the neighboring DeSoto Park. The national park service is active in all national and state parks, and it is a good idea to heed them during your visit.
Location: 4322 Little River Trail #100 Fort Payne AL
Tel: 256 845 9605
Web Address: http://nps.gov/liri/index.htm
Final Words:
Thank you for reading our list of the best things to do in Fort Payne, Alabama! We hope it helped you plan the perfect itinerary for your next trip to this fantastic destination. Happy travels!
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