ALABAMA, affectionately known as “The Heart of Dixie,” was admitted to the union in 1819 as the 22nd state. Alabama forms a roughly rectangular shape on the map, elongated in a north-south direction. It is bordered by Tennessee to the north, Georgia to the east, and Mississippi to the west. The Florida panhandle blocks Alabama’s access to the Gulf of Mexico except in Alabama’s southwestern corner, where Mobile Bay is located. Montgomery is the state capital.

The state offers much topographical diversity. The rich agricultural valley of the Tennessee River occupies the extreme northern part of the state. In northeastern Alabama the broken terrain of the southwestern fringe of the Appalachian Mountains begins and continues in a southwesterly progression across the northern half of the state. Below that the band of prairie lowland known as the Black Belt has rich soils that once cradled a rural cotton-producing way of life central to the state’s development. Farther south stretch piney woods and then coastal plains until one reaches the moss-draped live oaks of Mobile.

If you thought Florida was the only place in the U.S. to soak up the sun on stunning white sand beaches, think again. A visit to Gulf Shores in Alabama features gorgeous emerald-green ocean views, world-class golf courses, and even a zip line that takes you out over the rolling dunes at Gulf State Park. You can even take a trip to 19th century Fort Morgan or to Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge to try to spot sea turtles. While you’re there, don’t miss an opportunity to try delicious Gulf Coast shrimp and tangy key lime pie.

Under UPCOMING VACATIONS & EVENTS you’ll find ALL of the current vacations we’re offering for Alabama at this time. View ACCOMMODATIONS in the region, as well as NEWS & TRAVEL TIPS or discover regional fare and libations under the GASTRONOMY section.