Gadsden, AL

Travel Guide

Guntersville featuring signage
Photo by Tina Folsom
Photo by Mandy Mitchell
Photo by Russell Hewatt
Photo by Gerrit Ebert

Not only a gateway to the surrounding countryside, this small city is also a worthy destination in its own right. Enjoy its rich arts and culture scene.

A visit to the city of Gadsden lets you experience the best of the countryside without sacrificing city conveniences. Enjoy fresh air and outdoor recreation at nearby parks and delve into the local art scene at its galleries.

The area was once a settlement for the Cherokee Nation and later became a city in the 1840s. The region played an important role in the Civil War and in Alabama's 20th-century industrial success. Search for reminders of these aspects of its history as you wander around the city today.

Learn about Gadsden’s past by visiting museums and galleries around town. The Central-Carver Legacy Museum tells the story of the city’s first full 12-year public school for African-American students, while the Alabama Trail of Tears Memorial remembers the forced removal of thousands of Native Americans. Elsewhere in town, the Gadsden Museum of Art, Mary G. Hardin Center for Cultural Arts and Walnut Gallery showcase local artists and host a variety of events.

Escape to nature among the hills and rivers just outside the city limits. Amble along the trails of Noccalula Falls Park and admire views of the 90-foot (27-meter) waterfall. Don’t miss the Pioneer Village within the park, which recreates conditions for early settlers in the Etowah region. The park also features memorials, sightseeing trains and gardens. Hike or bike around the Black Creek Trail to follow the course of the gorge.

Step aboard a boat and travel across H. Neely Henry Lake to reach the James D. Martin Wildlife Park. Take your binoculars and look for herons, egrets and other bird species. Both the James D. Martin and Noccalula parks are less than 10 minutes away from Gadsden by car.

Fly into Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport for access to Gadsden. The city is about an hour’s drive away. One of the best times to come here is in April, when the city hosts its annual Chocolate Festival.

Red Roof Inn Gadsden

Red Roof Inn Gadsden

2 out of 5
1600 Rainbow Dr, Gadsden, AL
$67 nightly
The price is $76 total per night from Sep 1 to Sep 2
$76 total
Sep 1 - Sep 2
Total includes taxes and fees
Stay at this hotel in Gadsden. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our reviews. ...
8/10 Very Good! (542 reviews)
"Great place for the money!"

Reviewed on Jul 28, 2025

Red Roof Inn Gadsden
Hampton Inn Gadsden

Hampton Inn Gadsden

2.5 out of 5
129 River Rd, Gadsden, AL
$121 nightly
The price is $137 total per night from Aug 15 to Aug 16
$137 total
Aug 15 - Aug 16
Total includes taxes and fees
Stay at this hotel in Gadsden. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions Gadsden ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (545 reviews)
"Large & reasonably quiet room, considering its proximity to the Interstate. Comfortable bed and bedding. Quick arrival of hot water in shower and decent pressure. I did see a bug crawling down the wall once. The barking of a dog in a neighboring room was quite audible, but didn't last very long. ..."

Reviewed on Jul 26, 2025

Hampton Inn Gadsden
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Gadsden

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Gadsden

2.5 out of 5
116 Walker Street, Gadsden, AL
$105 nightly
The price is $119 total per night from Aug 15 to Aug 16
$119 total
Aug 15 - Aug 16
Total includes taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Gadsden. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
9/10 Wonderful! (973 reviews)
Nice
"Nice hotel. Bed was good. Clean."

Reviewed on Jul 31, 2025

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Gadsden
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Home on the Coosa Private with Great Sunsets

Home on the Coosa Private with Great Sunsets

Gadsden
Stay at this vacation home in Gadsden. Enjoy free WiFi, a pool table, and patios. Popular attractions Silver Lakes Golf Course and Gadsden Mall are located ...
10/10 Exceptional! (11 reviews)
"What a gem of a spot! We’ve had the best time relaxing, recharging, and soaking up the peaceful vibes on the river. The rocking chairs on the porch quickly became our favorite hangout—morning coffee just hits different with that view!This place had everything we needed and more. Best of all, it was ..."

Reviewed on Jul 28, 2025

Home on the Coosa Private with Great Sunsets
Spectacular Lake Views, Bright & Cozy Interior, Great Fishing

Spectacular Lake Views, Bright & Cozy Interior, Great Fishing

Langston
Stay at this vacation home in Langston. Enjoy laundry facilities, patios, and cable/satellite TV service. Popular attractions Guntersville Lake and Langston ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (150 reviews)
"Great location! Will definitely be staying at again."

Reviewed on Jul 14, 2025

Spectacular Lake Views, Bright & Cozy Interior, Great Fishing
Floating Cabin Lake Guntersville Cabin number 118

Floating Cabin Lake Guntersville Cabin number 118

Guntersville
Stay at this cabin in Guntersville. Enjoy patios, an in-room coffeemaker, and in-room fireplaces. Popular attractions Marshall County Park and Guntersville City ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (201 reviews)
"Very peaceful"

Reviewed on Jun 10, 2025

Floating Cabin Lake Guntersville Cabin number 118
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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