Family trips to Eufaula, Alabama are the stuff of legend. This charming town sits on the Alabama side of the Alabama-Georgia border, about a 90-mile drive southeast of Montgomery to reach Eufaula (where entertainment abounds). Overlooking picturesque Lake Eufaula, the town is known as the “Bass Capital of the World” and has been a longtime destination for travelers looking for a quiet afternoon on the water and some shopping in town.
What do you need to know before visiting Eufaula? There’s a lot. We’re here to help you plan your trip. We’ve rounded up fun things to do in Eufaula by style. Are you a shopper? A hiker? Or do you prefer to relax by the lake? Read on to see our list of the best things to do in Eufaula.
Attractions
If you love grand homes, these historic sites are a must-see, as they showcase the region’s 19th-century architecture.
Tour the Shorter Mansion
Your first stop is the Shorter Mansion. Tour this historic home-turned-museum and admire its stately neoclassical architecture. Shorter Mansion is open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for children ages 5-12.
eufaulapilgrimage.com/shorter-mansion, 340 North Eufaula Avenue, Eufaula, AL 36027
Admire the Italianate architecture of Fendal Hall
Fendal Hall’s Italianate architecture has remained largely unchanged: Built in the late 19th century, this historic home has been transformed into a museum and is filled with period antiques and historic memorabilia (not to mention Italian marble fireplaces, marble floors, and pristine landscaping).
ahc.alabama.gov/properties/fendall/fendall.aspx, 917 West Barbour Street, Eufaula, AL 36027
Celebrate the Seasons with a Historic Home Tour
Don’t miss the Eufaula Christmas Tour in early December, which takes you through the area’s historic homes and see them decorated for the season with vintage ornaments, Christmas collectibles, heirlooms and other Christmas decorations. During the Eufaula Pilgrimage in April, candlelight and daytime tours of the area’s historic homes are offered.
Check out the architecture in the Historic Center
The Seth Rohr and Irwinton Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is the second largest historic district in the state. It is home to over 700 historic buildings in a variety of architectural styles, many of which date back to the 19th century. You’ll be captivated in an instant.
What to do outdoors
Look for wildlife at Eufaula National Wildlife Refuge
If you love getting outside, these spots should be on your to-do list. Thrill seekers will find plenty to enjoy here. Plan a visit to Eufaula National Wildlife Refuge. This 11,184-acre refuge is just a short drive from the town of Eufaula. It’s filled with a diverse range of wildlife that call the refuge home, including American alligators, white-tailed deer, coyotes, ospreys, American ducks and great blue herons. See the wildlife and their diverse habitats, including seasonal wetlands and marshes, grasslands and prairies, on the winding eight-mile drive through the refuge.
fws.gov/refuge/eufaula, 367 Highway 165, Eufala, AL 36027
Explore Lake Point State Park
Located on Lake Eufaula, Lake Point State Park offers a variety of activities including fishing, boating, camping, wildlife watching, hiking and swimming. If you love fishing, don’t miss the annual bass fishing tournament held in the area.
alapark.com/parks/lakepoint-state-park, 104 Lakepoint Drive, Eufaula, AL 36027
Fishing on Lake Eufaula
Although commonly known as Lake Eufaula, the lake’s official name is Lake Walter F. George. Located on the Chattahoochee River along the Georgia-Alabama border, the lake was formed by the Walter F. George Dam, which is owned and operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. It offers countless recreational opportunities along its 46,000 acres and 640 miles of shoreline. Take advantage of campgrounds and enjoy fishing and boating.
Follow the Creek Heritage Trail
Learn about the First and Second Creek Wars, the Seminole Wars and the Creek Removal that took place in this part of Alabama. Follow the Creek Heritage Trail and learn about the Creek culture, people, events and history of this region.
alabama.travel/places-to-go/creek-indian-heritage-trail, 410 East Broad Street, Eufala, AL 36027
Where to Shop
Stop at must-see spots to find unique gifts and souvenirs.
Taste Alabama Pecans
Superior Pecans & Gifts has been producing the finest pecans in South Alabama since 1934. But that’s not all. Stop by and buy coffee, candy, brittle, jams and jellies. (Don’t forget the chocolate covered pecans – they’re worth the trip!)
superiorpecans.com, 117 East Broad Street, Eufala, AL 36027
Experience Southern Charm
Enjoy some shopping at Southern Charm, a boutique in Eufaula that offers a wide variety of items including clothing, gifts, jewelry, holiday decorations and more. Little ones will love the room dedicated to children’s toys and games.
facebook.com/SouthernCharmEufaula, 109 East Broad Street, Eufaula, Alabama
Visit local shops at Cotton And Kudzu
Located in Eufaula’s Historic District, Downtown Cotton and Kudzu is an art gallery selling funky local art, flowers, and gifts. Take home a Eufaula memento with you – bright paintings, pottery, handmade jewelry, and more.
cotton-kudzu.myshopify.com, 140 East Broad Street, Eufala, AL 36027
Where to eat
For lunch or dinner, order the chopped plate or a po’boy with all the side dishes you need – it’s a winner!
Have fun at Cajun Corner
No trip to Eufaula would be complete without a meal at Cajun Corner, where restaurant staff recommend the New Orleans Smothered Stuffed Fish (red snapper or grouper), Mardi Gras Stuffed Shrimp, or North Shore Pasta (and let’s be honest, we’re thinking about ordering a po’boy, too).
thecajuncorner.com, 209 East Broad Street, Eufala, AL 36027
Order a platter at Phil’s BBQ
What’s a visit to Alabama without some barbecue? Give it a try. You’ll thank us when you tuck into Phil’s BBQ’s slow-cooked pork and ribs, baked beans and potato salad. Phil’s uses farm-raised beef, organic goat and cow’s milk cheeses and local organic toppings. And don’t forget to try one of their homemade pies or cakes for dessert.
philsbbq.org, 534 South Randolph Avenue, Eufala, AL 36027
Wake up with the Donut King
Start your day with 12 fresh donuts from locally owned and operated The Donut King. Get there early; The Donut King is open from 5am until they sell out. While you’re there, grab a hot dog, toast, and more.
facebook.com/TheDonutKingEufaula, 350 South Eufaula Avenue, Eufaula, AL 36027
Where to stay
Relaxing by the lake
Book a room at Lakepointe Resort State Park Lodge and Convention Center and enjoy a comfortable stay with plenty of amenities and all that Lake Eufaula has to offer. The park also offers lakefront cottages, campgrounds and fishermen’s cabins.
alapark.com/parks/lakepoint-state-park, 104 Lakepoint Drive, Eufaula, AL 36027
Stay in town at Eufaula House on Barber
This bed and breakfast offers all the southern charm and comfort you’d expect from a small town, along with modern amenities and luxuries. Built in one of the city’s oldest homes, Eufaula House is within walking distance to downtown, historic sites, and restaurants.
eufaulahouse.com, 333 West Barbour Street, Eufala, AL 36027
