Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center
Discover Alabama's natural beauty at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge, a haven for migratory birds and diverse wildlife along the Tennessee River.
The Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center serves as the gateway to a 35,000-acre natural wonderland along the Tennessee River near Decatur, Alabama [2, 7]. Established in 1938, the refuge provides critical habitat for wintering and migrating birds, including ducks, geese, sandhill cranes, and the endangered whooping crane [2, 6, 7, 9, 14].
A brief summary to Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center
- 3121 Visitors Center Rd, Decatur, Alabama, 35603, US
- +1256-350-6639
- Visit website
- Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4 pm
- Friday 9 am-4 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit during winter (December-February) for the best chance to see thousands of Sandhill Cranes and possibly the endangered Whooping Cranes [4, 9, 12, 23].
- Bring binoculars and a camera to fully appreciate the diverse birdlife and capture stunning photos [3, 23].
- Check the refuge's event calendar for guided bird walks, photography workshops, and the annual Festival of the Cranes [23].
- Explore the accessible trails behind the Visitor Center, including the Wildlife Observation Trail and the Atkeson Cypress Boardwalk [3, 5, 23].
- Stop by the two-story Wildlife Observation Building for panoramic views of the refuge and its abundant waterfowl [3, 23].
Getting There
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Driving
From Decatur, head east on AL-67/US-31 S [15, 23]. Continue on AL-67 E for approximately 2 miles. The entrance to the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center will be on your right, clearly marked with signage [15, 23]. There is ample free parking available at the Visitor Center [23].
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From downtown Decatur, a taxi or ride-share service (Uber/Lyft) to the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center will cost approximately $15-25 USD, depending on traffic and demand [23]. The journey takes around 10-15 minutes. Confirm the fare before you start your trip [23].
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Public Transport
Public transportation options to the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center are limited [15]. NARCOG Transit provides public transportation services in the City of Decatur [15]. To utilize this service to get to the refuge, schedule a ride at least 24 hours in advance by calling (256) 580-2088 [15]. Standard fares within the service area are $2.00 for 0 to 5.0 miles [15].
Discover more about Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Moody Crab
2.3 km
Decatur's premier seafood destination, serving fresh crab and coastal favorites in a nautical-themed setting near Point Mallard Park.
Funland Mini Golf
4.3 km
Enjoy a classic miniature golf experience at Funland in Decatur, AL. Perfect for family fun, friendly competition, and creating lasting memories!
Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q
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Java Jaay Cafe
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Practical Magick AL New Age
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Current: Coffee + Collectibles
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Albany Heritage Neighborhood Historic District
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Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Association
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Decatur Mall
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Studio 9 inn suites
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High Point Market
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The Morgan County-Decatur Farmers Market
6.8 km
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Pineapples
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The RailYard
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Unmissable attractions to see
Point Mallard Park
3.0 km
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Wilson Morgan Park
3.9 km
Decatur's premier park offering sports, recreation, and community events, currently undergoing a major upgrade for enhanced experiences.
Wheeler NWR - Dancy Bottoms Nature Trail
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Explore the serene Dancy Bottoms Nature Trail in Wheeler NWR, a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers in Decatur, Alabama.
Delano Park
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Cook Museum of Natural Science
7.0 km
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Downtown Turtle Trail
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Frazier Park
7.4 km
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Daikin Garden
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GoFAR USA Park
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Decatur's premier outdoor adventure park with ziplines, obstacle courses, petting zoo, and trails for all ages. Get Out and Play!
Carnegie Visual Arts Center
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Rhodes Ferry Park
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Old State Bank
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A.C. Banks Park
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Wheeler NWR, Rock House Caves and Bluffs
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Essential places to dine
Ninja Japanese Restaurant
2.2 km
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Minnie Lee's Soul Food Diner
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Sushi Sumo
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Francesco's Italian Restaurant
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LongHorn Steakhouse
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Camino Real Mexican Restaurant
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Rock N Roll Sushi
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Olive Garden Italian Restaurant
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Texas Roadhouse
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Las Vias
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Waffle House
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HWY 67 Roadhouse Bar and Grill
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Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
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Wings and seafood
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Canton House
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Cheldens Gift Emporium
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Wiley's Trading Company
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Better Than Before Consignments
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It's Fashion
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Gateway Shopping Center
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Burger King
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Vintage Cigar Lounge
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The Casual Pint of Huntsville
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Research Park Wine Merchants
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Jeff & Blues
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Dave & Buster's Huntsville
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4th Quarter REVAMP
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Ruggby's Food & Spirits
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Maggie Meyers Irish Pub
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The Nook
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