Travel Guide: Experiencing Alabama’s Best Hotels
Pack your bags, grab your favorite travel companions, and get ready for an enlightening journey through the Heart of Dixie. Alabama, the southern U.S. state that’s rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, also boasts a wide range of delightful hotels to suit every traveler’s needs. In this guide, we’re going to explore some of Alabama’s top hotels, highlighting their unique features and what makes each of them a special place to rest your head at night.
1. The Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa, Point Clear
Nestled on the Alabama coast, the Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa in Point Clear is an iconic hotel with a history dating back to 1847. It’s known for its grandeur and Southern charm, making it a favorite among luxury seekers. This 405-room hotel features private balconies with breathtaking views, a luxurious spa, championship golf courses, and ten different dining options. Outdoor pools and a private beach ensure your relaxation is taken to the next level. To top it all off, this hotel is listed in the Historic Hotels of America registry. You’re not just staying at a hotel – you’re becoming part of its storied history.
2. Renaissance Birmingham Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa, Birmingham
Considered a gem in Birmingham’s crown, the Renaissance Birmingham Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa combines luxury and convenience in one package. Located near downtown Birmingham, it’s perfect for those who want to explore the city’s attractions while enjoying high-end accommodation. The resort features a world-class golf course, the third-longest in the world, and a stunning spa that offers a variety of rejuvenating treatments. Don’t forget to dine at Brock’s, their signature Mediterranean restaurant, for an unforgettable culinary experience.
3. The Battle House Renaissance Mobile Hotel & Spa, Mobile
The Battle House Renaissance Mobile Hotel & Spa is another historic hotel with roots that date back to 1852. This hotel, located in downtown Mobile, effortlessly marries past and present with its original architecture and modern amenities. Some of the features you’ll love include a rooftop pool, a full-service spa, and a range of dining options. Plus, it’s just a stone’s throw from the city’s vibrant entertainment district, so you’ll have plenty to see and do.
4. The Westin Huntsville, Huntsville
The Westin Huntsville, located in the Cummings Research Park area, caters especially to business travelers. However, it has much to offer leisure travelers as well. A blend of comfort and sophistication, the hotel provides spacious rooms with heavenly beds and invigorating spa-style bathrooms. Their fitness studio and outdoor pool will help keep your workout routine on track. Nearby, you can enjoy Huntsville’s premier shopping and entertainment complex, Bridge Street Town Centre.
5. Marriott Shoals Hotel & Spa, Florence
If you’re an admirer of scenic beauty, then the Marriott Shoals Hotel & Spa in Florence is for you. The hotel, overlooking the Tennessee River, provides stunning views that can be enjoyed right from your room. Its amenities include a 6,000-square-foot spa, an outdoor pool, and two restaurants. Don’t forget to visit their revolving restaurant, 360 Grille, for panoramic views and delicious cuisine. The hotel is also located near the historic Muscle Shoals Sound Studios, a must-visit for music fans.
6. Auburn Marriott Opelika Resort & Spa at Grand National, Opelika
Situated near Auburn University, the Auburn Marriott Opelika Resort & Spa at Grand National is a favorite amongst visitors and locals alike. This resort provides a spectacular lakeside setting, offering guests the perfect balance between natural beauty and luxurious amenities. The 2,000-acre property boasts 54 holes of championship golf, making it a haven for golf enthusiasts. Also, with its full-service spa, multiple dining options, and a large outdoor pool, relaxation and fun are guaranteed here.
7. Perdido Beach Resort, Orange Beach
Are you a beach lover? Then the Perdido Beach Resort at Orange Beach should be on your itinerary. This full-service resort offers a taste of paradise with its sugar-white sandy beaches and crystalline waters. You’ll find spacious guest rooms and suites, four restaurants and multiple bars, an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and even seasonal water sports. The spectacular Gulf views, coupled with top-tier amenities, make this resort a favorite amongst families, couples, and individual travelers.
8. The Admiral Hotel Mobile, Curio Collection by Hilton, Mobile
The Admiral Hotel Mobile, part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, is a historic and boutique hotel located in downtown Mobile. Built in 1940, the Admiral has been beautifully restored to its former grandeur, boasting a blend of modern luxury and historical charm. It offers a unique dining experience at its two restaurants – Launch and Corner 251. Plus, it’s conveniently located within walking distance of local attractions, such as the Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center and the Mobile Carnival Museum.
9. The Lodge at Gulf State Park, a Hilton Hotel, Gulf Shores
The Lodge at Gulf State Park, a Hilton Hotel, is an eco-friendly hotel that seamlessly blends comfort with sustainability. Located within Gulf State Park, it offers direct beach access and miles of trails for biking and hiking. The hotel is committed to energy efficiency and waste reduction, using reclaimed and recycled materials in its design. It’s a great place to stay if you’re conscious about your environmental footprint while still wanting a luxury hotel experience.
10. The Elyton Hotel, Birmingham
Finally, let’s end our journey at the Elyton Hotel in Birmingham. Housed in the historic Empire Building, this hotel is a testament to the city’s rich history and industrial past. It has a rooftop bar, Moon Shine, that provides stunning city views, perfect for an evening cocktail. The hotel’s restaurant, The Yard, serves up delicious Southern cuisine with a modern twist. Its central location, just a few minutes away from attractions like the Birmingham Museum of Art and Railroad Park, makes it an ideal base for your city exploration.
From historic resorts to beachfront properties, Alabama’s hospitality scene is diverse and captivating. Whether you prefer the elegance of a grand historic hotel, the relaxed ambiance of a beachfront resort, or the convenience of a city-center boutique hotel, you’ll find a place that feels like home. Safe travels, and enjoy your stay in beautiful Alabama!