Decatur is the leading city in the county of Morgan, Alabama. Built along the Tennessee river and in places surrounded completely by water, it is known simply as the ‘river city’. Today, Decatur is a bustling river port, with unending barge traffic coming and going, making it the busiest port on the Tennessee river.
The city’s thriving port activity has lead to the establishment of numerous businesses, including 20 Fortune 500 companies. The ‘river city’ boasts one of the most educated populations in the US with the largest number of engineers per person in the whole of the country. This interesting fact has contributed greatly to the city’s economic growth, making it a cosmopolitan place for visitors to relax in style.
Decatur is also a thriving destination for tourists with both national and international travelers arriving for the city’s various festivals and celebrations. The Spirit of America is among the largest free outdoor 4th of July celebrations in the southern USA, hosting a range of traditional activities, organized by an all-volunteer committee. Sometimes dubbed the ‘Chicago of the south’, Decatur has a wealth of historical buildings and picturesque parks.
Highlights
Alabama Jubilee: the south’s oldest running hot air-balloon race draws over 75,000 visitors to the city each year and has given Decatur its name as the ‘ballooning capital of the south’.
Spirit of America Festival: if you are in the south for the 4th of July don’t miss the region’s biggest free outdoor celebration.
Riverfest: in actuality does not have much to do with the river but instead is a barbequing contest to see who can beat the seven-time world champion, Big Bob Gibson. It is however, set along the beautiful Tennessee river and is a fabulous day out for all the family.
Celebration Arena: this 10,000 person capacity indoor arena plays host to a range of events throughout the year from rodeo and horse shows, to flea markets and concerts.
Delano Park: the oldest park in the city features a splash pad, the perfect place to cool off from the summer sun as jets and sprays spurt water from various directions and angles.