9 Alabama day trips perfect for couples

This is an updated version of an articled published in 2017.

Looking to take a day trip with your special someone, but not sure where to go or what to do?

Whether you and your partner are interested in seeing somewhere new, spending time outdoors, getting in some live entertainment or just relaxing, there’s lots of places in Alabama that are perfect for couples.

Of course, the length of your trip will depend on where you live, we’ve included trip ideas from all over the state so you’ll have plenty of options no matter where you’re starting from.

Here’s a look at nine Alabama day trips perfect for couples.

A table of wines Maraella Vineyards and Winery at the first Alabama Wine Festival on October 16, 2021. (Shauna Stuart for AL.com)

Sip your way along the North Alabama Wine Trail

Whether you prefer red or white, the six wineries along the North Alabama Wine Trail, from Maraella Vineyards and Winery in Hokes Bluff to Wills Creek Winery in Atalla and more, have a glass (or two) waiting for you and your special someone. Enjoy a tasting together while taking in each winery’s inviting atmosphere and scenic locations. The trail also hosts specials throughout the year, like chocolate pairings in February, pink sweets in October and more.

Take flight at the Alabama Jubilee Hot Air Balloon Classic

If you and your partner are looking for a one-of-a-kind date, head to the Alabama Jubilee Hot Air Balloon Classic in Decatur, which takes place on Memorial Day weekend each year. While the event includes plenty to see and do — live music, food vendors, a car show and more — the main event is seeing dozens of vibrantly colorful hot air balloons take to the sky. Who knows, maybe you’ll even be able to take your relationship to new heights by catching a free tethered ride, which are often offered by the balloon’s pilots.

Have a spa day at The Grand Hotel

The Grand Hotel Golf Resort and Spa in Point Clear is a favorite among couples looking to unwind together in a space that is as luxurious as it is comforting. After all, what better date is there than a couples’ massage and relaxing in the hotel spa facilities, including a steam room and sauna, before having dinner at the hotel’s Southern Roots restaurant, offering a farm-to-table experience, followed by an evening stroll along the water?

DeSoto Falls in DeSoto State Park — DeSoto Falls and DeSoto State Park. One of 15 places to see autumn foliage in Alabama. (Joe Songer | [email protected]). Joe Songer | [email protected]Joe Songer | [email protected]

See the sights in Mentone

There’s just something about the quaint mountain town of Mentone. From having an always memorable meal at the popular Wildflower Cafe to seeing the views — whether you find them at Brow Park, DeSoto Falls or any of Mentone’s many other scenic spots — to browsing the local goods at Mentone Market and Moon Lake Village, the idyllic town perched atop Lookout Mountain offers plenty of ways to spend a day.

Downtown Eufaula — Charming downtown Eufaula is home to a variety of shops and restaurants.Amber Sutton

Take in the small-town charm of Eufaula

Speaking of Alabama’s small towns serving up all kinds of charm, Eufaula is another day trip destination that offers a little bit of everything. You can tour a historic home or two — or several if you plan your visit around the annual Eufaula Pilgrimage — then browse the local shops, like its popular Superior Pecans. Grab lunch downtown before going for a scenic stroll along Lake Eufaula on the scenic Yoholo Micco Rail Trail.

It's not for nothing that Dauphin Island bills itself as the "Sunset Capital of Alabama." — It’s not for nothing that Dauphin Island bills itself as the “Sunset Capital of Alabama.”Sharon Steinmann/AL.com

Relax on the beach

This one might feel like a given, but you really can’t overstate how nice a day trip to the beach is, especially when you visit one along Alabama’s coast. Of course, different beaches have different vibes. If you’re looking for plenty of things to do and lots of restaurants with beach-y cocktails on the menu, head to Gulf Shores or Orange Beach. If you prefer seclusion and the only noise to be the sounds of the waves hitting the sand, Fort Morgan and Dauphin Island are the way to go.

Catch a show at a historic theater

For a casual night with someone special, take a day trip to Birmingham to catch a show of your choosing at the historic Alabama Theatre. Built in 1927 by Paramount Studios, the gorgeous theatre now hosts live music, comedy acts, movie screenings and more, so what you see while you’re there is up to you. Also, check out the line-up at the nearby Lyric Theatre, another historic theater in the Magic City, to see if one of their upcoming performances is of more interest to you.

Mums hang at an entry way to the Rose Garden at Bellingrath Gardens & Home in Theodore, Alabama.(Al.com file photo/Kate Mercer)

Have a picnic at Bellingrath Gardens

The 65-acre garden and grand historic estate home in Theodore that make up Bellingrath are a sight to see, and we recommend seeing it with someone special. The gardens, which were ranked as the seventh most beautiful in the country, have thousands of exquisite plants and flowers on display, offering blooms and beauty every day of the year. During your visit, you can roam the grounds freely or by taking a guided tour.

Ancient Alabama Part 1 — The overlook at Mt. Cheaha is breathtaking.Dennis Pillion

Take in the view at Mt. Cheaha

If you and your special someone enjoy spending time together surrounded by the state’s natural beauty, a visit to see the view from Mt. Cheaha could be an ideal way to spend a day. After all, it’s Alabama’s highest natural point and Cheaha State Park, where it is accessible, offers plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore. You can even rent a glamping tent, which comes with a king bed and plenty of comforts from home, and spend the night.