This Adorable Lakeside City In Alabama Is A Charming Getaway Full Of Recreation

When you look at the best vacation spots in the United States and some of the most visited tourist attractions in the U.S., there's a reason Alabama tops both lists. The state's breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and white-sand beaches, along with its legendary Alabama barbecue, makes it easy for this Southern gem to keep attracting visitors. But beyond the well-known destinations, Alabama is also home to a few adorable lakeside cities — and Eufaula, set in southeastern Alabama's Barbour County along the Chattahoochee River, is one of its most charming.

This city was first settled by the Creek Indians of the Eufaula band. It was briefly renamed Irwinton to honor General William Irwin, a hero of the War of 1812, but soon reclaimed its original name to avoid confusion with a Georgia town and to preserve its Creek heritage. Eufaula was once a thriving cotton port but now flourishes through agriculture, especially peanut production. Its location at the center of the Chattahoochee Trace makes it an ideal destination for outdoor recreation of all kinds. Lake enthusiasts can fish, kayak, or boat on its vast waters, while history lovers can explore more than 700 historic buildings, many of which are listed on the National Historic Register.

Eufaula sits about 85 miles from Montgomery, Alabama's capital, roughly an hour and a half's drive away. For international visitors, the best option is to fly into Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL). Atlanta is about 155 miles from Eufaula, a little over two-hour drive via Highway 85 S and US-431 S. Visitors can also take a connecting flight to Dothan Regional Airport, served by major airlines such as JetBlue, American, and United. From there, it is just an hour drive to Eufaula, with taxi fares ranging from $8 to $11.

The best way to explore Eufaula is by starting at Lake Eufaula, a 45,000-acre body of water that invites visitors to swim, kayak, boat, or simply enjoy the surroundings. Known as The Bass Capital of the World, the lake teems with largemouth bass, black crappie, and channel catfish, making it a dream spot for fishing enthusiasts. A valid fishing license is required for anyone aged 16 and older and those new to fishing can book a guided half-day tour for two anglers at around $350. Fishing here is one of those experiences that showcase what makes Eufaula special.

A stop at Lakepoint State Park, set on the banks of Lake Eufaula, is another rewarding way to enjoy the outdoors. The 2.9-mile Lakepoint State Park Trail and the 3.1-mile Motorized Nature Trail offer some of the most scenic routes, perfect for leisurely walks and birdwatching. For anyone interested in wildlife, the Eufaula National Wildlife Refuge is home to deer, fox squirrels, alligators, and up to 300 bird species. Hikers can explore the refuge's 11,000 acres, but for safety, the 0.7-mile Eufaula National Wildlife Refuge Nature Trail and the Uplands Waterfowl Viewing Platform Trail are good options, according to AllTrails

This city is one of the Best U.S. cities history buffs need to add to their bucket list, and the best way to explore its past is by visiting some of its museums. Start with the Shorter Mansion, an 1884 house museum in the heart of the historic district. The mansion is furnished with period antiques and open Monday through Saturday, with guided tours at $10 per person. Fendall Hall also serves as a museum, showcasing elaborate wall paintings and preserved architecture from the 1800s to the early 1900s.

Walking through the main street of Eufaula reveals rows of majestic antebellum mansions that inspired Alabama Tourism Director Lee Sentell to describe them as homes that "rise like ornate wedding cakes." One of the best ways to experience this charm is by planning your visit around the city's annual event, the Christmas Tour of Homes, held on the first Saturday of every December. During this celebration, the doors to Eufaula's finest Victorian and historic properties open to the public, offering an intimate glimpse into the city's past.

No visit is complete without tasting Alabama's famous barbecue. Among the city's local favorites, Phil's Barbecue stands out as a must-visit spot, with top reviews on TripAdvisor, it is known for its fresh farm meats and signature chopped pork sandwich. For your overnight stays, Lakepoint State Park offers 192 campsites perfect for those who want to spend the night under the stars, or you can stay at the Lakepoint Resort Lodge and Convention Center, which features 101 furnished rooms. Another great choice is the Quality Inn & Suites near Lake Eufaula, with rooms ranging from $90 to $110 per night.

Eufaula can be enjoyed year-round. Winter, fall, and spring bring cooler weather, and while temperatures can climb to around 90 degrees Fahrenheit in summer, the season is still perfect for fishing and other lake activities. Just remember to pack sun protection. Whether you come for the history, the water, or the outdoors, Eufaula offers the kind of laid-back charm that easily earns it a spot among the underrated small towns in America worth visiting.