25 Things to Do in Guntersville, AL & Nearby

Sharing is caring!

Are you looking for the best things to do in Guntersville, AL? You’re in the right place!

I spent a few days exploring Guntersville and the surrounding area and this is such an underrated destination for outdoor adventure lovers.

From caves to zip lining through the treetops to the lake (of course) there is no shortage of cool things to see and do.

I can’t forget about the historic downtown either! If you love visiting local shops and restaurants, then you’ll love it here.

Now let’s get into all the fun to be had near Lake Guntersville, Alabama.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through this link, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thanks for keeping Stuck On The Go going! I was hosted by Explore Lake Guntersville for this trip. All opinions are my own.

25 Best Things to Do in Guntersville, AL

This list covers things to do in Guntersville itself but also the surrounding area. You’ll want a car as some of these things are a 30-minute or so drive from town.

If you want additional information about visiting Lake Guntersville, you can find it at Explore Lake Guntersville.

1. Check Out the Hambrick Bat Cave

Seeing 60,000 bats emerge from their cave right after sundown is truly a unique experience and needs to be on your list of things to do at Lake Guntersville.

You have the options to go on a tour with Lake & River Fun, rent a boat from one of the local marinas, or take your own boat.

Kayaking is another alternative, but be very careful if you go this route. Large boats and barges come through here often and you’ll be paddling back with very little to no sunlight.

The best time to witness the bats is at sunset, from the months of April to October. They hibernate in the winter so you won’t see them during the colder months.

It’s a quick 20-minute ride from City Harbor and just one mile from the Guntersville Dam.

When I visited, the bats came out a little late and you could see them start to slowly trickle out a few at a time and then they began to pour out.

As they headed right for our boat, they would change course at the last second and then you could watch them glide over the water. It was truly beautiful.

2. Explore Downtown Guntersville

Downtown Guntersville is as charming as it gets with historic buildings, cute shops, and a couple of cafés.

I got to walk around town and visit a few of the shops but there were so many that I didn’t have time to see. If you love to shop, then I would allow two hours minimum for this.

The Monkey’s Uncle at the Lake is an adorable boutique with luxury gifts and they carry many Southern brands.

Enjoy the unique finds at The Red Elephant Market and Bakers on Main, where people purchase individual booths to stock, so you get an eclectic mix of items.

Venture Out is an outdoor store that’s perfect for any adventurer. There are plenty of other shops so just walk up and down the street and see which ones catch your eye.

While you’re walking around, grab a coffee at Moody Brews Coffee & Lounge or if you’re visiting in the afternoon, you can also grab a beer here.

3. Zipline at Screaming Eagle

For adrenaline junkies and nature enthusiasts, Screaming Eagle Aerial Adventures is a must when in Guntersville. This was my first zipline experience, so I was pretty nervous but after a couple of lines, I was loving it!

The course is located at Lake Guntersville State Park and has two different levels.

For younger visitors or if you just want a taste of ziplining, you can start with Level 1. It features 10 ziplines that span up to 400 feet with four sky bridges to cross.

For the adventurous, the Level 2 Canopy Tour is breathtaking with 15 ziplines, including 5 that are between 1,000 to 2,100 feet long. This one even takes you up to 190 feet high!

On Level 1, you are mostly ziplining through the trees but on Level 2, you get above the treeline and have gorgeous views of Lake Guntersville. On the longer lines, you really get to enjoy the views and it really feels like you’re flying.

It might seem daunting at first, but the staff here are so friendly and they make sure you feel safe and comfortable.

I recommend bringing a fanny pack for any essentials that you want to keep with you during the ride.

4. Learn some History at the Guntersville Museum

Located just outside of downtown Guntersville, the museum is a treasure trove of local history and culture.

It features a few different exhibits that provide a glimpse into the past, and three different spaces that focus on different aspects of Guntersville’s history.

You’ll find Native American artifacts, a snapshot of commercial industries in early Guntersville, medical contributions from John Allan Wyeth, and a celebration of locals’ contributions to America’s wars.

The largest room is a tribute to the town’s more recent history, important people in the town’s history, and a collection of maps.

There’s also the Woodall Gallery that showcases regional artwork. I would recommend planning for up to an hour in the museum unless you are a hardcore history buff – then you’ll need a bit more time.

5. Hit the Trails at Buck’s Pocket State Park

Buck’s Pocket State Park is an off-the-beaten-path adventure and is one of the best things to do near Guntersville if you are a nature-lover.

It’s most well-known for its off-road vehicle (ORV) trail system since these are the first dedicated ORV trails in the Alabama State Park system.

The most popular hiking trail here is the Point Rock Trail but be prepared because it’s incredibly steep in some sections!

They warned me at the park office and it even says so on the trail maps but I wasn’t expecting it to be that steep. I had to stop and catch my breath multiple times.

The trail follows a creek bed for part of the way and ends at the Jim Lynn Overlook where you’ll find beautiful mountain views.

Typically there’s a small waterfall that you can see just off the trail, but it was dry when I visited since there had been no recent rain.

If you’re looking for a secluded spot to hike, then give this trail a try. If you’re short on time or the trail is a bit too much, then you can also drive right up to the overlook instead.

6. Catch a Show at The Whole Backstage Theatre

The Whole Backstage Theatre is a gem in Alabama’s cultural landscape as it’s the longest continuously running community theatre in the state.

Celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2023, this is a special place to see a show if you love the performing arts. The building itself is celebrating its 100th anniversary!

In its early days, the building served as a school and has earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Places.

The theatre can accommodate an audience of 350 people and shows typically run in the evenings on weekends and some Thursdays, with a special matinee showing on Sundays.

7. Enjoy the Views at City Harbor

City Harbor is the perfect place to go out for dinner or drinks to enjoy gorgeous views over the lake. There is a large parking lot here or if you’re coming from the water, there are many spots to tie your boat off at the dock.

There are plenty of restaurants here, including Big Mike’s Steakhouse, La Esquina Cocina, and Another Broken Egg Café.

The best places to grab drinks are Levi’s on the Lake and The Brewer’s Cooperative. The Brewer’s Cooperative is a fun collaboration between some breweries in Huntsville and throughout the rest of Alabama.

Home Re.DECOR is a home decor shop here and there is also The Cigar Room that you can visit.

You’ll find plenty of outdoor seating where you can enjoy beautiful sunsets right on the water.

8. Visit Painted Bluff on the Lake

Painted Bluff is a must-see for anyone interested in Native American history or prehistoric art. Accessed only by boat, the site is located above the Guntersville dam at the coordinates: 34.462967, -86.446300.

Here you’ll find around 80 ancient drawings dating back over 600 years that offer a glimpse into the region’s rich heritage.

Note that if you want to see these drawings and put your boat in below the dam, you’ll have to go through the locks to access them.

9. Go Wine Tasting at Jules J. Berta Vineyards & Winery

This adorable winery has a gorgeous outdoor space where you can enjoy a glass of wine or one of their slushies. They even serve slushy flights with four different flavors that vary daily!

Whether you get a wine flight or a slushy flight, they are preselected and you can’t make substitutions. They’ve been selected as Alabama Winery of the Year multiple times so you’ll likely find something you like!

I recommend visiting on Thursday, Friday, or Saturday when they are serving their wood-fired pizza as it’s absolutely delicious. They also sell cheese or charcuterie baskets in their gift store.

Highly recommend the slushy flight as well – it was the perfect thing for a warm summer evening.

10. Take a Ride with Alabama Horseback Adventures

If you want to experience Lake Guntersville State Park from a unique perspective, then Alabama Horseback Adventures is for you.

They offer a variety of horseback rides lasting from 1 hour to a full day, catering to both beginners and seasoned riders.

It’s a great way to discover the natural beauty of the park, with trails meandering through beatiful forests and offering stunning views of the lake.

Remember to wear close-toed shoes, and note that riders must be over 12 years old. Whether you’re an experienced rider or it’s your first time on a horse, the friendly staff ensure a safe and unforgettable adventure.

11. Head Underground at Cathedral Caverns State Park

A quick drive from Guntersville is the stunning Cathedral Caverns State Park. First commercialized by Jack Gurley in the 1950s, the cave has an interesting history that you’ll hear all about on the tour.

The first “room” in the cave is a natural amphitheater and Gurley built a platform that was once used for bluegrass performances.

You’ll also learn how the Native Americans used the first two rooms of the cave and the state park has found multiple historical artifacts.

Some of the most interesting features of the cave include the enormous Goliath column, the unique Frozen Waterfall, and the beautiful stalagmite forest.

Another fun find – the tour guides typically point out at least one shark tooth in the ceiling of the cave.

Our guide told tons of rock jokes and was very knowledgeable about the history of the cave and its appearance in pop culture. Each guide puts their own spin on the tour, though.

The tour is entirely accessible, and they even provide a golf cart service for those unable to walk.

The cave is 60 degrees year-round so you’ll want to bring layers if you get cold easily. The tour lasts for about an hour and a half and as soon as you walk in the cave entrance, you can feel a difference in the temperature.

The state park is also home to gemstone mining which is very popular with kids and multiple hiking trails.

12. Attend an Eagle Awareness Weekend at Lake Guntersville State Park

One of the most popular things to do in Guntersville in the winter is to attend an Eagle Awareness Weekend at Lake Guntersville State Park.

These weekends are typically held in January and February and you can find upcoming dates here. The park offers great package deals during this time that include lodging, some meals, access to presentations, and more.

Throughout the weekend, you can attend live bird demonstrations, presentations, and guided safaris that take you out into the park to see the eagles in their natural habitat.

If you are into birding, then this is a must-do in North Alabama.

13. Make a Trip to the Arab Historic Village

Take a step back in time with a visit to Arab Historic Village just 30 minutes from Guntersville.

This charming village consists of 10 preserved buildings that offer a glimpse into what life was like in rural North Alabama from the 1880s to the 1940s.

Explore the schoolhouse, church, country store, grist mill, and more, each with period-appropriate furnishings and décor.

Strolling through the village is like walking through a living history book and offers insights into the experiences of past generations.

Note that the buildings are not open on the weekends but you can find their hours of operation here.

14. Relax at The Soak House & Soapery Day Spa

After all the adventures available near Lake Guntersville, you deserve a spa day! Located right next to City Harbor and just outside of downtown, this is one of the most relaxing things to do in Guntersville.

The spa offers mineral soaks, facials, massages, body scrubs, and more to rejuvenate your mind and body. Make a day out of it by getting one of their package options.

Everyone who visits loves the attentive staff and the availability of champagne and craft beer to purchase. You can also add lunch to your appointment if you request it in advance.

15. Watch a Stunning Sunrise or Sunset

Sunset Drive is a 3.7-mile walking trail on the northwest side of the peninsula that offers stunning sunsets over the lake. It’s the next best thing to being out on a boat at sunset.

The Jim Lynn Overlook in Buck’s Pocket State Park is another stunning option for sunrise or sunset and you can drive right up to the overlook. No hiking necessary.

Another drive-up overlook is located in Grant, about 20 minutes from Guntersville. It’s directly across the road from the Kate Duncan Smith DAR School and here is the location on Google Maps. This is where the photo above was taken.

I was staying at ReTreet, which was an easy 11 minute drive from here, so I went to catch a sunrise one morning.

When I posted it to my Instagram story, people couldn’t believe it was Alabama.

16. Grab a Beer at Main Channel Brewing

Main Channel Brewing, located in the heart of Guntersville, is the perfect stop for any craft beer lover.

It opened in 2015 and is known for hosting weekly events like Trivia Tuesday (very popular) and live music on weekends.

They serve a wide variety of craft beer and the taps rotate frequently. The Juicy Double IPA, Amber Ale, and Mango Wit were my personal favorites.

If you wind up wanting to take something home, you can grab a 6-pack from their fridge or go for a crowler or growler of anything on tap.

They do have different food trucks come in throughout the week but you can also bring in your own food. You can check their Instagram page for the food truck and event schedule.

17. Play a Round of Golf

Whether you’re a pro golfer or just enjoy hitting a few balls, Guntersville offers a couple of fantastic golfing options.

Gunter’s Landing is known for its stunning course and staff that goes above and beyond. The course offers a moderate price point and most people find it offers a good challenge.

Another option is Eagle’s Nest, situated in Lake Guntersville State Park. It’s a bit cheaper than Gunter’s Landing but another great choice for those looking to enjoy golf on a budget.

Both courses provide amazing views, well-maintained greens, and they are open to the public.

18. Take the Kids to Sand Mountain Park & Amphitheater

If you’re traveling with kids, they will love a trip to Sand Mountain Park & Amphitheater. This sprawling park is a hub of fun and entertainment, particularly in the summer months.

Many local residents visit the park for the fitness, aquatic, and tennis centers, but visitors to the area come for the water park and amphitheater. They also have an RV Park if you want to stay here for a few days.

If you’re traveling with your furry friend, there are also dog parks here if they need to let out some energy.

Their water park features two giant 25-foot waterslides, a large splash pad, a relaxing 600-foot lazy river, and multiple swimming pools, providing plenty of options to cool off and have fun. There are multiple options for shade or sunbathing as well.

Don’t forget to bring your own towels and make sure to read their rules and regulations before visiting – especially about bringing in outside food & drink.

In addition to the water park, the amphitheater hosts a variety of live music events during the warmer months. Once winter arrives, the amphitheater transforms into the largest real ice-skating rink in North Alabama.

19. Go Hiking at Lake Guntersville State Park

Lake Guntersville State Park is a haven for hiking enthusiasts, with over 36 miles of multi-use trails for hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding.

A few popular hikes here are the Cutchenmine Trail, Lake Guntersville Lodge Trail, and Lake Guntersville Cave Trail.

The Cutchenmine Trail offers a beautiful stream at the end so bring your water shoes and wade in on a hot day. Do watch out for snakes along this trail though.

The Lodge Trail has breathtaking lake views but it is very steep in sections and makes for a good workout. The Cave Trail features a cool little cave to explore so it’s neat for kids.

Each of these trails typically only takes less than an hour and a half so they’re great if you want something quick.

20. Attend One of the Many Annual Festivals

There are tons of festivals held year-round in Guntersville and the surrounding area of Marshall County.

Hydrofest is the largest festival held here and it takes place in June. Multiple different classes of boats race on Lake Guntersville and reach speeds of up to 200mph. This has been a tradition since the 1940s!

There is an entrance fee for this event but prices are incredibly reasonable and you watch the boats from Sunset Drive near the Guntersville Rec Center.

October brings the Harvest Festival in Boaz, one of the cute small towns in Marshall County, and Guntersville has started its own Harvest Festival as well.

SugarFest is held in Arab during September and this one day community event is all about how life is a little sweeter in the south.

Make sure you check the events schedule to see what’s going on while you’re in town.

21. Catch Some Live Music

I’ve already mentioned that you can catch live music at Main Channel Brewing but other spots to enjoy live music and grab a cold drink in town include City Harbor or Fire by the Water.

The Sand Mountain Amphitheater is perfect if you want to see a full-blown concert and a free option is the Concert in the Park series held by the Mountain Valley Arts Council.

These concerts are held in Errol Allan Park typically on Thursday evenings during the spring and fall and are free to the public.

22. Rent a Boat From Town Creek Fishing Center

If you’re aching to get out on the water and do a little fishing, Town Creek Fishing Center is your go-to place.

They offer a variety of boat rentals including flat bottom boats, pontoons, and bass boats, all available for half-day, full-day, or even 24-hour rentals. You can also get kayaks or canoes here on an hourly basis.

Located conveniently at the mouth of Town Creek, you can easily access some of the best fishing spots on Lake Guntersville.

And don’t worry if you forget anything – they’ve got you covered with fishing baits, fishing licenses, and a range of snacks, drinks, ice, and camping supplies available for purchase. It’s a one-stop-shop for all your fishing and boating needs.

23. Chase Waterfalls at High Falls Park

While High Falls Park is a decent drive from Guntersville, it’s close to Buck’s Pocket, so I recommend combining the two as a day trip.

This beautiful park is home to a spectacular waterfall that stands about 35 feet tall and 300 feet wide at full flow. Sadly, when I visited the falls were barely flowing since there had been no recent rain.

Even then, it was still a beautiful sight and photographers and nature-lovers should absolutely make the trip to see it.

There are picnic tables available for a leisurely lunch, and a couple of hiking trails that offer nice walks through the woods. This is also a popular spot for people to come and swim below the falls.

24. Hire a Fishing Guide for a Day on the Water

Lake Guntersville offers some of the best fishing in Alabama and even the southeast US so if you’re an avid fisherman, don’t miss out!

Taking a guided trip gives you the best chance at catching the most fish since the knowledgeable guides are familiar with the lake and all the best spots.

Most people come here for bass fishing, but you can also catch bream, bluegill, crappie, catfish, and more. Make sure that you have the proper fishing license!

If you need recommendations for a guide, check out the fishing guide that Explore Lake Guntersville publishes.

25. Hang Up Your Hammock by the Lake

Is there anything more relaxing than lying in a hammock with a beautiful view of the lake? Bring a book or journal and that sounds like heaven to me.

With so many adventurous things to do in Guntersville, it’s always smart to plan in some downtime.

Lake Guntersville State Park is a great place for this. Pack your hammock and take the Seale’s Trail that follows Town Creek or visit the Beach Day-Use Area. Just note there is a fee for the beach complex.

Another great option is hanging one up along the Sunset Drive Trail in town. Come here near sunset and you’re in for a beautiful show.

Restaurants in Guntersville, AL

You know I love to find the best food & drinks when I visit a place! Here are a few places to eat in Guntersville that I loved.

Rock House Eatery

This is one of the most well-known dining spots in Guntersville. Located just outside of historic downtown, this family-owned restaurant was established in 2009 by a father and son duo.

The beautiful building is made of rock (hence the name) with old wooden floors and they offer both indoor and outdoor seating.

It’s a casual lunch spot but transitions to a bit more upscale dinner atmosphere and menu. They also serve Sunday brunch.

I had the Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwich (yum) but I was told that you really can’t go wrong with anything on their menu. And they have a huge variety for lunch which made it hard to choose!

Don’t forget to make a reservation as they tend to get busy, especially during the weekends.

Homecoming & Company

Homecoming & Company is another iconic dining spot in Guntersville, where the atmosphere feels like you’re eating at your grandma’s house – warm and welcoming. The food is that good too.

This southern gem offers home-style cooking where they make everything from scratch coupled with fast and friendly service.

One of their most popular lunch items is “The In Between,” which is grilled ham, pimento cheese, and pepper jelly on sourdough.

The pepper jelly adds a hint of sweetness, perfectly balancing out the tangy pimento cheese.

They have all kinds of unique sandwich options like this for lunch and their breakfast menu is served until 2pm.

Don’t forget to save room for dessert! I wasn’t able to try any, but the options looked amazing.

Moody Brews

If you’re looking for a quick bite or craving a shot of caffeine, Moody Brews is your go-to spot in Guntersville.

This funky coffee shop is right in downtown Guntersville and truly a gathering place for the community.

I visited early one morning and there were people working here, a couple of groups gathered to catch up, and many regulars coming through.

The menu features a variety of coffee drinks and teas to choose from but they also serve breakfast sandwiches and pastries, which are perfect for a quick, tasty meal.

I tried the apple & cinnamon danish with a hot mocha and it was just what I needed to start the day.

If you come by in the afternoon, you can even grab a craft beer to wind down the day. Moody Brews reminded me of some of the cute spots to grab breakfast in Gulf Shores.

Where to Stay Near Lake Guntersville

During my time in the Lake Guntersville area, I stayed at Retreet Glamping Resort and I couldn’t have had a better experience.

They have treehouses, glamping tents, and tiny cabins here to choose from and I was able to stay in one of the beautiful treehouses.

The treehouse had a cute living room and kitchenette, a very nice bathroom, and a comfy king bed. There was even a bottle of wine waiting for me when I checked in and eggs in the fridge from their own chickens.

While the lodging options are truly top-notch, it’s the amenities here that set this glamping property apart. They have a Tree Spa on property with a hot tub and sauna perched on the hillside among the trees.

There’s a Little Library where you can borrow a book during your stay, a dog park, putting green, and horseshoe pit. Just below the Tree Spa, they have a beautiful fire pit area complete with charcoal grills as well.

One thing that I thought was super fun – they have golf carts that you drive around the property instead of your car. So when you arrive, you load all your luggage into the back of the golf cart and head up to your site.

If you forgot anything or want to grab a quick snack or drink, they also have a Tree Store where you can purchase all kinds of toiletry, food & drink, or grilling items.

I couldn’t have asked for a more perfect place to stay and this would make an amazing romantic getaway!

The only other time I’ve stayed in a treehouse was in Tuscaloosa, AL – don’t ever say you can’t find unique accommodations in Alabama!

Wrap Up: Things to Do in Guntersville, AL

Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast hoping to reel in a big catch, a shopaholic looking for cute local stores, or simply someone in need of a tranquil escape by the lake, this is the perfect place.

There are so many fun things to do in Guntersville, AL and the surrounding area. If you only have a few days, it’s hard to choose what to do!

I had the best time exploring this part of North Alabama and I hope you do too.