If you haven’t had a chance to explore your new state yet (or if you’ve lived here for years and just haven’t gotten around to it), you’re missing out! According to World Population Review, these are the cities with the largest populations in Alabama as of January 2022. Let’s learn a little more about what they have to offer and what makes each one special.
About: Hoover was largely a residential community throughout most of the 1970s and 1980s. The area’s Riverchase Galleria multi-use shopping and commercial complex that was established in the late 1980s is one of the largest supporters of the local economy.
Attractions: If you want to experience Hoover’s natural beauty and maybe do a bit of hiking, make plans to check out Moss Rock Preserve & Waterfalls. Nature lovers are also guaranteed to enjoy a trip to Aldridge Gardens to see the lake and take a stroll on the walking trail. Of course, you can’t make a trip to Hoover without stopping by Riverchase Galleria for a little shopping.
Fun Fact: Hoover’s Ross Bridge Golf Trail is one of the longest golf courses in the world.
About: Dothan was originally settled by pioneers who wanted to take advantage of the area’s abundant timber supply. Many years later, local farmers began planting and harvesting peanuts, and the peanut industry still fuels a good portion of Dothan’s economy today. In fact, 25% of the entire country’s peanut crop is harvested within a 75-mile radius of Dothan. This city is home to the Dothan Regional Airport and Troy University’s Dothan campus.
Attractions: If you’re looking to have fun with the whole family in Dothan, we suggest taking a trip to Adventureland to play mini-golf and arcade games. You can walk a few trails and learn more about the area’s flora and fauna at the Dothan Area Botanical Gardens.
Fun Fact: The “World’s Smallest City Block” is located in Downtown Dothan.
About: Auburn was originally intended to be East Alabama’s center for religion and education. The city’s major claim to fame, Auburn University, was founded in 1859 and became Alabama’s first four-year college to admit women in 1892. After WWII, Auburn’s population began growing due to an influx of college students eager to use their G.I. Bills. Today, most of the city’s economy is still based on industries and facilities related to Auburn University
Attractions: If you can snag tickets, we definitely suggest catching a home football game at Jordan-Hare Stadium while you’re in Auburn. At the very least, go take a look at the iconic Toomer’s Corner and stop by Toomer’s Drugs for a glass of lemonade and an ice cream cone. We also recommend taking a trip to Chewacla State Park to see more of what makes this area so naturally beautiful. Art lovers are sure to enjoy a visit to Auburn’s Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art.
Fun Fact: Tim Cook, CEO of Apple, went to Auburn University.
About: During the mid-1800s, Decatur grew to be a major economic center thanks to its prime position on the Tennessee River. It also played quite an important role in the Civil War because of its location on the river. Decatur is now the busiest river port on the entire Tennessee River, which is a major contributor to the economy’s success.
Attractions: The Cook Museum of Natural Science is a fun place to visit if you’re interested in learning all about the environment. In the same vein, you’re sure to enjoy all that Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge has to offer if want to learn more about the area’s ecology. During summer, you can cool off with a trip to Point Mallard Park.
Fun Fact: Unsurprisingly, Decatur’s nickname is “The River City.”
About: The City of Madison developed around a stop of the Memphis & Charleston Railroad. Madison played a part in the Civil War, and it was actually the site of a battle between the Alabama Cavalry and the Illinois Infantry Regiment. Today, Madison functions as a thriving suburb of Huntsville.
Attractions: Hikers and nature lovers should plan to spend some time exploring Rainbow Mountain Nature Preserve in Madison. If you’re looking for something for the whole family to enjoy, plan to roller skate, play laser tag, and much more at Insanity Complex.
