From Industry to Adventure: Alabama Town Gets National Praise

One Alabama town just earned national attention for its incredible transformation from industrial to a best weekend getaway.

An Alabama town has made National Geographic’s top ten list for being an industrial location that “has had a glow up.”

The magazine said these ten locations have gone from being known for factories and shipping to buzzing with culture, energy, and modern amenities, making them some of the best weekend getaways.

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10 Industrial Cities Emerging as Prime Travel Destinations

#10 – Wilmington, Delaware

Best for: Budget travelers

#9 – Tacoma, Washington

Best for: Culture enthusiasts

#8 – St. Louis, Missouri

Best for: Foodies and museum lovers

#7 – Richmond, California

Best for: WW2 buffs

#6 – Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Best for: Gilded Age fans

#5 – Lake Charles, Louisiana

Best for: Outdoor adventurers

#4 – Detroit, Michigan

Best for: Movers and shakers

#3 – Cleveland, Ohio

Best for: Rock n’ rollers and restoration fans

#2 – Buffalo, New York

Best for: Architecture lovers

#1 – Birmingham, Alabama

National Geographic said that Birmingham is best for “Southern sophisticates.” It also listed hot spots like Sloss Furnaces, a hands-on museum and arts venue. They mentioned the Botanical Gardens, Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, Five Points South, Vulcan Park, and nods to the local cuisine.

“After decades in decline, a handful of flyover or underrated cities are now attracting first-time visitors,” said National Geographic. “With careful urban planning, corporate support, and community collaboration, these cities are nodding to their pasts while moving toward a more modern, and in some cases, sustainable future.”

Click here for more from National Geographic.