Kandi's Guidebook
Sightseeing
This is a great place for Crimson Tide fans to visit. It offers a great history lesson on the Tide and a great look at awesome memorabilia.
25 locals recommend
Paul W. Bryant Museum
300 Paul W Bryant DrThis is a great place for Crimson Tide fans to visit. It offers a great history lesson on the Tide and a great look at awesome memorabilia.
Entertainment
A large variety of high-profile artists perform concerts here. In the winter, the arena converts to an outdoor ice-skating rink.
31 locals recommend
Tuscaloosa Amphitheater
2710 Jack Warner PkwyA large variety of high-profile artists perform concerts here. In the winter, the arena converts to an outdoor ice-skating rink.
Begin on the University Strip and follow University Blvd. all the way through downtown Tuscaloosa, and you will find shops, local food establishments, corporate food establishments, local bars, and hidden treasures. Venture off both sides of the Blvd. to find many more of these types of establishments on the surrounding blocks.
University Boulevard
University BoulevardBegin on the University Strip and follow University Blvd. all the way through downtown Tuscaloosa, and you will find shops, local food establishments, corporate food establishments, local bars, and hidden treasures. Venture off both sides of the Blvd. to find many more of these types of establishments on the surrounding blocks.
Food scene
Local hidden treasure, but it is well-known to those who frequent Tuscaloosa. If you’re looking for a cozy, southern-style breakfast, then look no more. Wonderful food at a wonderful price.
10 locals recommend
Waysider
1512 Greensboro AvenueLocal hidden treasure, but it is well-known to those who frequent Tuscaloosa. If you’re looking for a cozy, southern-style breakfast, then look no more. Wonderful food at a wonderful price.
Just across the river from Downtown Tuscaloosa. This quaint, bustling cafe offers both breakfast and lunch. Very inexpensive with great quality food. There may be a line, but it’s worth the wait. Explore local shops and the bakery, while you’re there.
28 locals recommend
City Cafe
408 Main AveJust across the river from Downtown Tuscaloosa. This quaint, bustling cafe offers both breakfast and lunch. Very inexpensive with great quality food. There may be a line, but it’s worth the wait. Explore local shops and the bakery, while you’re there.
This jewel is about 30 min. outside of the city in the quaint town of Moundville. It’s a straight shot and not hard to find. It’s worth the drive and the food is amazing. One of the best steaks you’ll eat. Casual dress.
Big Mike's Steakhouse
384 Market StreetThis jewel is about 30 min. outside of the city in the quaint town of Moundville. It’s a straight shot and not hard to find. It’s worth the drive and the food is amazing. One of the best steaks you’ll eat. Casual dress.
What better way to enjoy a meal than to eat at this local establishment, which is located directly beside Bryant Denny Stadium. You’ll definitely enjoy this retro, tide-themed diner.
17 locals recommend
Rama Jama’s
1000 Paul W Bryant DrWhat better way to enjoy a meal than to eat at this local establishment, which is located directly beside Bryant Denny Stadium. You’ll definitely enjoy this retro, tide-themed diner.
City advice
Customs and culture
Social Interactions
Don’t be alarmed by the southern hospitality or strangers who will want to know all about you. Also, be prepared to hear “Roll Tide” as a substitution for both hello and goodbye.
Useful phrases
Southern Hospitality/Sports Town
Learn to say “Roll Tide” as a greeting. You may get the occasional “War Eagle,” but just double-down on the “Roll Tide.” We say yes ma’am/no ma’am/yes sir/no sir/please and thank you to everyone, regardless of age. It isn’t an insult, it’s a sign of respect. Don’t ask us not to say it. We like our tea sweet and with ice. We will want to know your entire family history…on the off-chance we might be related to you or know a family member.
Travelling with kids
Local Traffic
Local traffic can be heavy at times. It is at its heaviest between 7:30 & 8:30 and between 3 & 6. Expect longer waits during football games.
What to pack
Weather
It is summer here about 7 months out of the year. The hottest months are May-September. Prepare for the unexpected, like snow in April, tornadoes in July & December (in addition to April, May, June, Sept.), and days where you can sunbathe during daylight hours and need thermal-wear during nighttime hours.