The University of Alabama Arboretum: A Natural Haven
Discover Alabama's natural beauty at this Tuscaloosa gem: walking trails, diverse gardens, and educational programs for all ages!
Escape the city bustle at the University of Alabama Arboretum, a 60-acre sanctuary showcasing Alabama's native flora and fauna. With walking trails, diverse gardens, and educational programs, it's a refreshing outdoor experience for all ages.
A brief summary to The University of Alabama Arboretum
- 4801 Arboretum Way, Tuscaloosa, Alabama, 35404, US
- +1205-553-3278
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking the trails, which range from easy to moderate.
- Bring a camera to capture the beauty of the diverse plant life and natural landscapes.
- Check the Arboretum's website for upcoming events, workshops, and plant sales.
- Visit during the spring or fall for the best weather and to see the wildflowers in bloom or the autumn foliage.
- Consider visiting the adjacent Harry Pritchett Running Park or the nearby VA Medical Center for a longer outdoor experience.
Getting There
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Driving
From the University of Alabama campus, head east on 15th Street/Veterans Memorial Parkway. Continue past the Veterans Affairs Medical Center. Turn right at the sign for the VA Medical Center and the Arboretum. Then, turn left at the sign specifically for the Arboretum. Follow the road to the parking area. Parking is free. Note that visitors cannot enter through the gate on Pelham Heights Road.
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Public Transport
Take the Tuscaloosa Transit bus line 1 from the Tuscaloosa Transit Center. Ride the bus for approximately 20 minutes and disembark at the stop on 5th Avenue. From there, walk 0.5 miles east on Arboretum Way, and you will arrive at the Arboretum entrance on your right. A single ride fare is $1.
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Taxi/Ride-share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Tuscaloosa. From the University of Alabama campus, a taxi or ride-share to the Arboretum will cost approximately $8 - $12, depending on the distance and demand. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver or through the app before starting your trip.
Discover more about The University of Alabama Arboretum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The University of Alabama
6.5 km
Explore The University of Alabama: A blend of historic charm and vibrant student life in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.
Druid City Brewing Company Taproom & Ell's Kitchen
6.7 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Tuscaloosa at Druid City Brewing Company, where craft beer meets delicious cuisine in a lively atmosphere.
Woods Quad
7.0 km
Discover the tranquility of Woods Quad in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, where lush gardens and artful sculptures create a peaceful retreat for all visitors.
Bryant-Denny Stadium
7.3 km
Visit Bryant-Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, where college football traditions come alive amidst a sea of passionate fans and thrilling game day experiences.
CMX Hollywood 16 & IMAX
7.3 km
Discover the ultimate movie experience at CMX Hollywood 16 & IMAX, where cinematic adventures await in the heart of Tuscaloosa, Alabama.
Bama Bed and Breakfast
7.7 km
Experience Southern hospitality at its finest at Bama Bed and Breakfast, your cozy retreat in Tuscaloosa, AL, blending comfort with local culture.
Unique
7.7 km
Discover Unique, a lively bar in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, where vibrant nightlife, delicious drinks, and unforgettable experiences come together.
Historic Drish House
8.1 km
Explore the Historic Drish House in Tuscaloosa - a stunning venue that captures the essence of Southern elegance and rich history.
The District Room
8.4 km
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Queen City Park
8.5 km
Explore the beauty of nature at Queen City Park, Tuscaloosa's tranquil urban oasis for relaxation and outdoor fun.
Tuscaloosa Public Library
8.5 km
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Loosa Brews
8.5 km
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Alcove
8.6 km
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Tuscaloosa Tourism and Sports - Visit Tuscaloosa
8.6 km
Experience Tuscaloosa like a local at the Visitor Center, your hub for information, events, and unique attractions in this vibrant Southern city.
Black Warrior Brewing Company
8.8 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Hurricane Creek Park
3.8 km
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Bowlero Tuscaloosa
4.6 km
Tuscaloosa's premier entertainment destination with bowling, arcade games, a sports bar, and fun for all ages!
Snow Hinton Park
4.6 km
Discover Tuscaloosa's premier park: walking trails, playgrounds, picnic spots, and community events in a green oasis.
Randall Family Park & Trailhead
6.2 km
Explore Tuscaloosa's scenic Randall Family Park & Trailhead: Riverwalk trails, playgrounds, and outdoor fun by the Black Warrior River.
Paul W. Bryant Museum
6.3 km
Relive the glory days of Alabama football at the Paul W. Bryant Museum, a tribute to Coach Bryant and the Crimson Tide legacy.
Monnish Park
6.4 km
Escape to nature in Tuscaloosa's Monnish Park: trails, playgrounds, picnic spots, and community events await!
UpSurge Trampoline Park
6.5 km
Tuscaloosa's premier trampoline park: jump, bounce, and flip into fun with open jump areas, obstacle courses, and exciting activities for all ages!
Alabama Museum of Natural History
6.8 km
Explore Alabama's natural history from dinosaurs to meteorites at the Alabama Museum of Natural History in Tuscaloosa.
Smith Hall
6.8 km
Explore Alabama's natural history from dinosaurs to meteorites at the Alabama Museum of Natural History, housed in the historic Smith Hall.
Goldie 1971 - The Fallen Robot
7.0 km
A striking sculpture in Woods Quad at the University of Alabama, commemorating Birmingham's iron industry and offering a unique photo opportunity.
Gorgas House Museum
7.2 km
Explore the oldest building on UA's campus, the Gorgas House Museum, and discover 19th-century life through original furnishings and historical artifacts.
Park at Manderson Landing
7.4 km
Enjoy scenic river views, walking trails, and public art at Manderson Landing, Tuscaloosa's premier riverfront park. Open daily, family-friendly.
Escape Tuscaloosa
7.9 km
Immersive escape room adventures in Tuscaloosa! Solve puzzles, crack codes, and escape the room for an unforgettable experience with friends and family.
Jemison-Van De Graaff Mansion
8.4 km
Step back in time at Tuscaloosa's Jemison-Van de Graaff Mansion, an Italianate masterpiece showcasing 19th-century life and innovation.
Mildred Westervelt Warner Transportation Museum (part of UA Museums)
8.6 km
Explore Tuscaloosa's past through transportation at the historic Queen City Pool House. A unique museum experience.
Essential places to dine
Wright's Restaurant
1.9 km
Discover delicious American and Armenian dishes at Wright's Restaurant in Tuscaloosa - where flavors meet affordability.
Flavaz Seafood & Soulfood Restaurant
4.5 km
Experience authentic Southern cuisine at Flavaz Seafood & Soulfood Restaurant in Tuscaloosa—where seafood meets soul food for an unforgettable meal.
Olive Garden Italian Restaurant
4.9 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Olive Garden in Tuscaloosa – perfect for family gatherings and memorable meals.
Metro Diner
4.9 km
Experience authentic Southern hospitality at Metro Diner - your go-to spot for breakfast and brunch in Tuscaloosa.
Hokkaido
5.0 km
Discover the best of Japanese cuisine at Hokkaido - where sushi meets tradition in the heart of Tuscaloosa.
Taziki's Mediterranean Cafe - Tuscaloosa
5.0 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Taziki's Mediterranean Cafe in Tuscaloosa - where fresh flavors meet warm hospitality.
Baumhower's Victory Grille
5.1 km
Discover Baumhower's Victory Grille in Tuscaloosa: where delicious American cuisine meets vibrant sports culture in a family-friendly atmosphere.
King's Kitchen
5.1 km
Experience authentic Southern cuisine at King's Kitchen in Tuscaloosa - where every meal tells a story.
Newk's Eatery
5.7 km
Discover delicious sandwiches and fresh salads at Newk's Eatery - your go-to spot for tasty meals in Tuscaloosa.
Urban Cookhouse
6.2 km
Experience authentic American cuisine at Urban Cookhouse in Tuscaloosa – where fresh ingredients meet flavorful dishes.
Legends Bistro and Lounge
6.3 km
Discover exquisite dining at Legends Bistro and Lounge in Tuscaloosa – where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
T-town Cafe
6.5 km
Discover the charm of T-town Cafe in Tuscaloosa – where hearty breakfasts and friendly service create unforgettable dining experiences.
Lai Lai Restaurant
6.9 km
Experience authentic Chinese flavors at Lai Lai Restaurant in Tuscaloosa - where every meal is a delightful journey through Asia.
Hooligans Restaurant
7.1 km
Experience the heart of American cuisine at Hooligans Restaurant in Tuscaloosa – where comfort food meets warm hospitality.
Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux - Tuscaloosa Restaurant
7.3 km
Experience vibrant dining at Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux in Tuscaloosa - where Louisiana flavors meet sports enthusiasm.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Druid City Vintage Vendor Market
2.6 km
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Gifty's Place
3.2 km
Explore unique fashion and stylish finds at Gifty's Place, the top boutique destination in Tuscaloosa, AL.
Leather & Lace Boutique
4.1 km
Explore Tuscaloosa's Leather & Lace Boutique for stylish women's clothing, trendy accessories, and unique home goods in an inviting atmosphere.
University Mall
4.4 km
Experience Tuscaloosa's premier shopping destination at University Mall, featuring diverse retail, dining, and entertainment options for everyone.
EARTHBOUND
4.5 km
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Belk
4.6 km
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Tuscaloosa Midtown Village
4.9 km
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South Boutique Tuscaloosa
4.9 km
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Lavish Tuscaloosa
5.0 km
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Shoppes at Legacy Park
5.0 km
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McFarland Plaza
5.0 km
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In-Style Tuscaloosa
5.4 km
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Thrifty Charm Boutique
6.4 km
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Skyland Antique Mall
6.7 km
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Miss Priss Boutique
7.0 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Scooter's
7.1 km
Scooter's Bar in Tuscaloosa offers a lively atmosphere and affordable drinks, perfect for unwinding and enjoying local nightlife.
Harry's Bar
7.5 km
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The Bear Trap
7.6 km
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Sideline Bar
7.7 km
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The Houndstooth
7.7 km
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Jackie's Lounge
8.3 km
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Innisfree Irish Pub
8.4 km
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World of Beer
8.6 km
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Nocturnal Tavern
8.8 km
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Top Shelf Tavern
8.8 km
Experience the authentic Southern bar scene at Top Shelf Tavern in Tuscaloosa, where great drinks and a friendly atmosphere await every visitor.
Catch 22
8.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and innovative cocktails at Catch 22, a must-visit cocktail bar in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.
The Gray Lady
8.9 km
Discover The Gray Lady, a vibrant Tuscaloosa bar known for its creative cocktails, craft beers, and lively trivia nights in a welcoming atmosphere.
Brown's Corner
8.9 km
Experience the best cocktails and vibrant nightlife at Brown's Corner in Tuscaloosa, where every sip is a celebration.
Tavern 1831
8.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Tuscaloosa at Tavern 1831, a lively bar with an extensive drink selection and entertainment options.
Decades Pub and Grub
8.9 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort food and vibrant atmosphere at Decades Pub and Grub in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.
