Located in the 'Deep South' state of Alabama, Tuscaloosa is a thriving city that offers visitors numerous attractions. Home to just over 93,000 residents, it has been awarded numerous accolades that recognize its quality of life, opportunities for young people and enterprise. It has a prosperous commercial sector and highly regarded educational facilities such as the University of Alabama. Its alumni includes many sports stars and award winning writers and novelists, including Pulitzer Prize winning journalist, Rick Bragg and author of "To Kill A Mockingbird", Harper Lee. The city attracts thousands of visitors a year and the hotels Tuscaloosa accommodates offer tourists and businesspeople a great place in which to base their stay.
Tuscaloosa was once the capital of the state due to its advantageous location on the Black Warrior River. It is named after the chieftain of a group of indigenous settlers called the Muskogee. Due to the numerous water oak trees planted in the area from the mid-1800s, it is also known as 'Druid City'. The history of the state is one of agriculture, plantations and an important role in the American Civil War, when it was loyal to the Confederate Army. Centuries later, during the Civil Rights movement in June of 1963, the actions of the state's governor, George Wallace, led to an event known as the Stand in the Schoolhouse Door. Visitors with an interest in history, politics and society will find the area rich with opportunities to learn more about these times.
Tuscaloosa experiences distinct seasons and a Southern subtropical climate, with dry, hot weather interrupted by the occasional thunderstorm. Alabama has always been a place known for its typical Southern charm and hospitality and guests at any of the hotels Tuscaloosa houses will experience excellent customer service and superb amenities. On-site dining facilities include elegant restaurants and relaxing coffee lounges and downtown Tuscaloosa offers a variety of eateries to enjoy.
The University of Alabama was established in 1831 and has grown to be a major presence in the city. Over 30,000 students attend the university, which spans an area of 18,000 acres. Within this huge space, there are a wealth of arts and cultural institutions, including the Tuscaloosa Symphony Orchestra, which is complemented by three resident choirs. The Paul Bryant Museum houses football memorabilia from throughout the ages and recognizes the influence of Paul Bryant, the legendary football coach often affectionately called 'Bear Bryant'. Sports fans will find the museum rewarding, so make sure it's on your itinerary.
Also located on the campus is the Arboretum, which covers 60 acres. The Arboretum showcases the state's native fauna and flora and is a haven for wildlife and gardening enthusiasts. The attractions include an experimental garden, a children's garden and a bog. If you enjoy being outside in Mother Nature, walking trails will lead you through the native woodland and forest. The wildflower garden contains more than 250 species for the purposes of botanical appreciation and education. The Community Organic Garden is a collaboration between the university, students and local residents to learn more about growing their own food and has been an enormous success. If you are interested in organic living, this will be worthwhile. Special sales are held regularly for visitors to purchase plants that they may not find elsewhere. Check when you book your stay at any of the hotels Tuscaloosa has, whether there is a sale on while you are visiting. It will make a special, day extra special.
Other cultural events in the city include the Festival of Arts, which is attended by visitors from throughout the country. The annual event happens each third week in October so ensure you reserve a room at one of the hotels Tuscaloosa provides for then in good time. Enjoy the talents of hundreds of contemporary artists and those who exhibit the skills of times past. There are regular demonstrations of pottery making, quilting, needlecraft, blacksmithing and furniture making. Who knows, maybe you will be inspired to take up a new hobby? With musical entertainment and food stalls that cater for every taste you are bound to enjoy the sights and sounds.
If you are interested in the lives and lifestyles of indigenous people, the annual Moundville Native American Festival will be hugely entertaining. The festival is an annual event located at Moundville Archaeological Park and aims to educate visitors about how this landscape looked over 800 years ago. Native American craftspeople demonstrate their skills while musicians and storytellers entertain and educate the crowds. This is highly recommended and just part of what makes this city a wonderful place to vacation.
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