Tuscaloosa is home to the University of Alabama, the city’s main economic and cultural focal point. It is named after Indian Choctaw chieftain Tuskalusa, meaning ‘black warrior’, who was defeated in a battle for control of the area. The city is situated on the Black Warrior river and the surrounding area has a diverse geography of mountains, coastal plains, rivers and lakes.
Since its incorporation in 1817, Tuscaloosa has been a major city in the state of Alabama, serving as the capital of the region for a period. The city boasts rich culture in performing arts, historical heritage, museums and galleries, with the University of Alabama playing a leading role in most events and activities of this type.
Nightlife is Tuscaloosa, as you would expect from any college town, is bustling with many bars, nightclubs and live music venues to choose from. The university’s sporting teams and events also bring great diversity to the range of activities in Tuscaloosa. There are a number of sporting teams, including football and basketball, and the city is also the birthplace of the world record holder in the 400m sprint, Otis Davis.
Highlights
Jemison-Van de Graff Mansion: this antebellum mansion dating back to 1863 features outstanding Italianate architecture and is home to the Tuscaloosa convention center and visitor’s bureau.
Battle Friedman House: listed on the national register of historic monuments, this 1800s house features antique furnishings, a museum and a cultural center.
Bama Theater: this is the oldest theater in the city and hosts live performances in ballet, music and drama.
Bryant Denny Stadium: this impressive stadium with an 84,000-person capacity is host to the University of Alabama’s major sporting events and is worth the visit for the electric atmosphere.
Moundville Archaeological Park: featuring 320 acres of parkland, nature trails, prehistoric Indian mounds and Indian villages, this is a national historic landmark that is internationally renowned.
Children’s Hands-On Museum: with programs designed to instill a sense of community in the minds of the Tuscaloosa youth, this impressive educational institute provides interactive and entertaining workshops and exhibits.