An All-American City: Gadsden, Alabama

WHETHER YOU'RE THERE FOR THE fishing, hiking, golfing, antique shopping or just to enjoy the slower pace of small-town life, Gadsden, Alabama, will wow you with its Southern hospitality and scenic beauty. With gentle rolling hills, mountaintop views, vivid seasons complemented by a mild climate, and the Coosa River flowing through the heart of the Appalachian foothills, there is much to do and explore.

A great place to start exploring is one of the largest natural tourist attractions in Alabama: Noccalula Falls. Even before you spot the rush of water cascading 90 feet into the beautiful ravine, you see the 13-foot-tall bronze statue, caught midstride on a rock overlooking the falls. Erected in 1958, the statue brings a touch of romance to the park and to the town.

Legend has it that there was a beautiful Cherokee maiden deeply in love with a warrior of her own tribe. Her father, a great chief, ordered her to marry a Creek chief, who offered many horses in exchange. The wedding day came and she allowed herself to be arrayed in festive wedding robes. But, heartbroken, she quietly slipped away to the soft, rhythmical waters that called to her. For a moment, she stood poised upon the brink of the yawning chasm and then, with one leap, her life was over. Grief-stricken and remorseful, her father gave the great cataract his daughter's name, and since that day Black Creek Falls has been called Noccalula Falls.

Below in the ravine, where the sure-footed trek, are many scenic and historic sites: a gorge trail with caves and Indian carvings, an aboriginal fort, an abandoned dam, Civil War carvings, many species of rare plants and wildlife, and unusual rock formations. When one stands behind the great spray of water, awed by its power, all else seems to pale in comparison to its beauty. Surrounded by nature, it is easy to imagine the Native Americans roaming these trails long ago, easy to feel the spirit of Noccalula.

In springtime, you'll find Noccalula Falls Park's botanical gardens, with an extensive array of azaleas, especially breathtaking. In the fall, the trees -- dressed in rusts, reds and gold -- are a sight to behold. No matter what the season, a walk through Pioneer Village, a group of more than a dozen rustic hand-hewn buildings, is a great way to peek into the past.

You may enjoy playing a game of miniature golf or taking a ride around the grounds on a passenger train that will transport you to the animal park. In addition to these attractions, you'll find a beautiful campground with a swimming pool, a country store, two outdoor stages, excellent picnic facilities and hiking trails.

Throughout the year, the park provides a perfect setting for arts-and-crafts exhibits, antique auto shows and Native American powwows. (Events and dates can be supplied by the park.) The park is also the "point of beginning" of the world's largest garage sale, which extends 450 miles north along Lookout Mountain Parkway and U.S. Highway 127 from Gadsden to Cincinnati, Ohio. This year, the dates are August 17 through 20.

While Noccalula Falls may be one of the largest attractions in the area, there's much more to see and do in and around Gadsden. If fishing is your game, you'll enjoy venturing along the banks of the Coosa River. The 1,000-foot boardwalk, 10 minutes from the falls, is a good place to toss in a hook and talk to a few of the local fishermen. With benches lining the walk, this area also provides a perfect place to sit and watch the day slip into dusk. Boat ramps are available. Gadsden also serves as host for fishing tournaments, 10 of which are scheduled this year. More information can be obtained by contacting the tourism board.

While you're at the boardwalk, you'll probably notice the Citizenship Monument. Chances are, you'll also spot the Alabama Princess riverboat. Specializing in leisurely luncheon and dinner cruises, the spacious two-deck paddleboat offers a nostalgic journey along the scenic and historic Coosa River. Featuring live musical entertainment and a delicious buffet, the authentic replica of a 19th-century sternwheeler offers a great way to stir up some romance.

If fishing or water sports is your main reason for coming to Gadsden, you may want to stay at River Country Campground. Located on the banks of the Coosa River, the campground offers a chapel, heated and air-conditioned bathhouses, a swimming pool and two large pavilions, as well as many other conveniences. The park's beauty has not gone unnoted. In 1997, the U.S. House of Representatives recognized it as one of the most beautiful campgrounds in the Southeastern United States.

A trip to Gadsden wouldn't be complete without touring the historic downtown area, which has recently been restored to reflect its original luster. The streets, graced with old-fashioned street lamps, are lined with several speciality stores, such as Little Faces Doll Shop, and a variety of antique stores.

At the end of Broad Street is the entrance of Memorial Bridge, where you'll find the Emma Samson monument. Samson, a local resident, was a noted Confederate heroine. On the morning of May 2, 1863, she guided General Nathan Bedford Forrest to an obscure ford across Black Creek near Gadsden. As a result, Forrest later overtook and captured Streight's Raiders and saved the Confederate supply line at Rome, Georgia.

Starting in May and continuing through September, the Cultural Arts Center downtown hosts live musical entertainment in its courtyard every Friday and Saturday night. Locals and tourists gather to enjoy a drink and an evening beneath the stars. The building houses a children's museum, a variety of art exhibits and the Coosa Valley Model Railroad Club's 72-foot-long working railroad, which runs through a miniature model of Gadsden as it was in the 1940s.

If you're intrigued by antiques shopping, you'll want to take a quick trip to a neighboring town. With its charming atmosphere and more than 15 antiques shops, Attalla has become an enthusiast's dream. The Yellow Canary Restaurant, located less than a block from the main drive, offers home-cooked Southern meals if you want a tasty stop..

Another great shopping opportunity is found at Mountain Top Flea Market, Alabama's largest. Located only 15 miles from Gadsden, the market is open every Sunday from 5 a.m. until approximately 4 p.m. You'll find everything from jewelry and crafts to hardware and furniture. In addition, the fresh fruits, vegetables and roasted peanuts will tempt your taste buds.

While the miniature golf at Noccalula Falls may satisfy some travelers, those whose hands itch for a No. 9 iron and a beautiful course will not be let down. Alabama's landscape can really be appreciated along the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail of nine courses, including Silver Lakes near Gadsden.

One thing that Gadsden is definitely not short of is great places to dine. Top of the River, a steak-and-seafood restaurant overlooking the Coosa, features complimentary cornbread and coleslaw with every meal. The portions are large, the selection wide, the food delicious, and the service reflects the town's hospitality.

Because of the area's scenic beauty, recreational activities and residents' friendliness, Gadsden was one of only 50 U.S. cities featured in the book The Best Towns in America: A Where-to-Go-Guide for a Better Life. Gadsden was also named an All-American City by the National Civic League. Indeed, this Alabama community is a great place to visit.

Article by: Christie Craig

Photos by: Christie Craig