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Rhodes Ferry Park: Decatur's Riverfront Jewel

Discover Decatur's riverfront gem: Rhodes Ferry Park, where history meets recreation on the banks of the Tennessee River, offering scenic views and community events [3, 4].

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Rhodes Ferry Park in Decatur, Alabama, is a 4.1-acre park on the Tennessee River, offering scenic views, a playground, picnic areas, and a connection to the city's history as Rhodes Ferry Landing [3, 4]. It also serves as a poignant reminder of the Trail of Tears [3, 4, 7].

A brief summary to Rhodes Ferry Park

  • Monday 7 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 7 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 7 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 7 am-7 pm
  • Friday 7 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 7 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 7 am-7 pm

Local tips

  • Check the Decatur Parks and Recreation website for upcoming events like concerts and festivals held at the park [4].
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy the scenic river views from the covered picnic areas [4].
  • Walk or bike the Decatur Trail, which starts at Rhodes Ferry Park, for an extended exploration of the riverfront [3, 4, 11].
  • Visit during sunset for stunning photo opportunities of the Tennessee River and the bridges [4].
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From downtown Decatur, head northwest on 6th Ave NE towards Market St NW. Turn right onto Market St NW and walk for about half a mile [3, 4]. You'll pass shops and cafes. Rhodes Ferry Park will be on your right at 100 Market St NW [3].

  • Public Transport

    Check local bus routes operating in Decatur [3, 4]. The closest bus stop is on 6th Ave NE [3]. Take a bus heading towards downtown. Ask the driver for the nearest stop to Market St NW. Walk north on Market St NW for 5-10 minutes to Rhodes Ferry Park at 100 Market St NW [3]. A single ride on NARCOG Transit costs $2 within the service area [3].

  • Driving

    From Highway 31, turn onto Market Street NW and continue towards the riverfront [3]. Rhodes Ferry Park will be on your right at 100 Market St NW [3, 4]. The park provides ample parking [3, 4].

Unlock the Best of Rhodes Ferry Park

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Discover more about Rhodes Ferry Park

Rhodes Ferry Park, situated at 100 Market St NW in Decatur, Alabama, is more than just a park; it's a blend of history, recreation, and community spirit [3, 4]. This 4.1-acre park sits on the banks of the Tennessee River, providing a tranquil escape with scenic views and a link to Decatur's past [3, 4]. Originally known as Rhodes Ferry Landing, the area was named after Dr. Henry W. Rhodes, who operated a ferry service across the Tennessee River in the early 1800s [3, 5, 12]. This ferry was a crucial transportation link for settlers traveling west, and the park now stands as a tribute to that history [3]. The city of Decatur itself is named after Commodore Stephen Decatur, a naval officer [3, 9, 12]. Today, Rhodes Ferry Park is a hub of activity, offering recreational opportunities for all ages [3]. It features walking trails along the riverfront with views of the water and bridges [3]. The park is also part of the Decatur Trail system [3, 4]. Families can enjoy a playground with modern equipment and a sandbox, while covered picnic areas offer space for gatherings [3, 4]. Throughout the year, Rhodes Ferry Park hosts various events, including the Concerts in the Park series on Monday evenings from Memorial Day to Labor Day [3, 6, 8]. The Decatur Public Library also hosts events at the park [3, 4]. Rhodes Ferry Park also holds a place of remembrance as part of the Trail of Tears National Historic Trail [3, 4, 7]. In the 1830s, thousands of Cherokee people were forcibly removed from their lands, passing through Decatur, with the Tennessee River serving as part of their journey [3, 4, 7]. The park serves as a reminder of this tragic event [3, 4].

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