Governor Kay Ivey is spotlighting some of her favorite destinations across the state this fall through the “Alabama Favorites” series, encouraging residents and visitors alike to explore the history, culture, and beauty of Alabama.
Among her highlighted picks is Gee’s Bend, where visitors can ride the ferry, meet the community’s legendary quiltmakers, and enjoy local dining at places like The Pecan on Broad or Gaines Ridge Dinner Club.
On Saturday, October 4, Gee’s Bend will host its annual Airing of the Quilts Festival, celebrating a tradition often called “some of the most miraculous works of modern art in America.”
The governor also pointed to Gulf Shores as a perennial favorite. Known for its sugar-white beaches and relaxed coastal atmosphere, the city is preparing to welcome nearly 250,000 visitors during the National Shrimp Festival, set for Oct. 9–12. The festival has been a fall tradition for 50 years, bringing together food, music, art, and family entertainment.
For those seeking natural beauty, Ivey recommended Lake Jordan, just north of Wetumpka. The lake is known for its tree-lined shores and waterfalls, best appreciated from the water. As the southernmost reservoir in the Coosa River chain, Lake Jordan offers scenic escapes during Alabama’s colorful autumn season.
Rounding out the list is Monroeville, celebrated as the hometown of Harper Lee and officially designated by the legislature in 1997 as the “Literary Capital of Alabama.”
Visitors can tour the historic courthouse, including the courtroom that inspired the film adaptation of To Kill a Mockingbird. This fall is also timely for literary fans, as Lee’s newest work, The Land of Sweet Forever, will be released posthumously on October 21.
The “Alabama Favorites” series highlights towns, cultural landmarks, restaurants, and outdoor escapes that define the state. Residents are also encouraged to share their own fall travel destinations on social media and tag @AlabamaTravel to join the conversation.
Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
