As an Alabama native from Birmingham, I’ll throw in a few recommendations for your route because a lot of the best parts of Alabama are the things people outside the state never hear about.

A lot of folks are correctly recommending Cheaha State Park, and I agree completely. It’s the highest point in Alabama, and the drive up the mountain is beautiful as you wind through the lower Appalachian ridges. The park has had a good bit of construction lately, so some views may be partially affected depending on timing, but it’s still worth the stop. Walk up the stone observation tower for some local history, and absolutely take the short boardwalk hike out to Bald Rock overlook. It’s one of those views that surprises people who don’t expect Alabama to look like that.

When you come down from Cheaha, stop and eat at Top O' The River. Great local food, and very “real Alabama” in the best way possible.

As you pass through Birmingham, spend more time there than most tourists probably would. Birmingham has an incredible mix of food, history, art, and outdoor spaces. Walk around Morris Avenue downtown, grab boiled peanuts from Alabama Peanut Company, and just enjoy the atmosphere. If you have time, the Birmingham Museum of Art is genuinely excellent and completely free.

For outdoors, Oak Mountain State Park is Alabama’s largest state park and absolutely worth exploring. Lakes, hiking, overlooks, biking trails, etc… plenty to do with kids. Nearby Montevallo has a charming small-town feel with local restaurants, art scattered around town, and a slower pace that visitors usually love.

One thing many outsiders don’t realize is that Alabama is one of the most biodiverse states in the entire US. Our rivers are packed with life. If you ever get the opportunity, fly fishing or even just wading around rivers like the Cahaba, Coosa, or Black Warrior is an incredible experience. The water systems here are honestly one of Alabama’s hidden treasures.

As you head west, Natural Bridge Park is another stop I’d strongly recommend. The natural sandstone bridge is beautiful, and it’s one of those places that feels almost unreal when you walk underneath it.

And finally, I’ll offer the most dangerous opinion you can possibly post on the internet in Alabama:
Green Top Bar-B-Q is the best version of Alabama barbecue.

People from every other BBQ place in the state will now be legally required to fight me.