Jasper is a city in Walker County, Alabama.
Named after American Revolutionary War hero William Jasper, this city was historically a big coal producer.
Its coal industry was so large that it helped shape the cityscape, which you can still see today, most notably in the Downtown Historic District.
See the old buildings from the coal era in this district.
You can also glimpse old Jasper in its museums and parks.
The Jasper of today has moved on from its coal-mining days, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t still plenty to do in this city.
Jasper has a rich combination of history and outdoor and indoor attractions that will entertain visitors of all ages.
Here are the best things to do in Jasper, AL:
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The Bankhead National Forest is one of Alabama’s four national forests.
Located in the northern part of Jasper, AL, the forest covers 181,230 acres of land with an abundance of canyons, waterfalls, lakes, and springs.
The Bankhead National Forest also features four recreation areas.
The forest is a great place to hike, camp, fish, and enjoy the great outdoors.
Bring your family or friends for a day of relaxation or adventure.
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There are also abundant hiking trails, camping sites, and picnic areas.
You can also go canoeing or swimming at one of the lakes within the forest.
The Bankhead National Forest has cultural and historical significance as it showcases prehistoric drawings, rock carvings, and petroglyphs from Native Americans.
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The Walker County Lake is a nearby lake that sports a recreational area for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Located southeast of downtown Jasper, the Walker County Lake spans 163 acres filled with different outdoor activities.
The lake’s recreational area has a playground, pavilions, grills, and a fishing pier.
There’s also a fishing pond, a country store, and a boat launching dock.
The lake is also a prime destination for anglers as it’s filled with various fish, including catfish and bluegill.
You can also rent canoes and glide along the tranquil waters of Walker County Lake.
The Bankhead House & Heritage Centre is a local museum devoted to the history and culture of Walker County and the men who served as part of the US Congress.
The museum is located in an 1824 federal-style house where former Alabama representative William Bankhead lived.
The museum contains several exhibits on Walker County’s history and the life and career of Congressman Bankhead.
The museum is also home to a research library containing a wealth of local history resources.
Tourists can enter and explore the home, learning about the life of Congressman Bankhead as they go from room to room.
There is also a small museum shop on site where you can purchase souvenirs.
Twisted Barley Brewing is Jasper’s latest micro brewhouse located in the city’s heart.
The brewhouse features a warm and friendly atmosphere where you can meet new friends and socialize with the friendly locals.
Twisted Barley Brewing is also known for its iconic beers.
The Watermelon Gose and Vanilla Joe are some of the best-sellers local beer drinkers want you to try.
You can even play fun board games as you drink.
There’s the famous giant Jenga, checkers, and even classic cars.
Whether you’re looking to meet up with your friends or new ones, Twisted Barley Brewing is Jasper’s latest hotspot.
Located in nearby Dora—a 21-minute drive from downtown Jasper, AL—Horse Creek Golf Course is the premier destination for golfers in the area.
The course features 18 holes of Championship golf that are sure to challenge and delight players of all skill levels.
Covering 6,883 years, this 720par course is well-maintained and in excellent condition.
The Horse Creek Golf Course also features obstacles like water hazards, sand traps, elevation changes, and bunkers.
Whether a seasoned pro or a novice golfer, you will have a great time playing a round at Horse Creek Golf Course.
It’s pretty rare these days to smoke in indoor public places, but the Cigar Box offers a unique experience for cigar lovers.
The shop features a comfortable and luxurious lounge where you can sit back, relax, and enjoy a good cigar.
Located in downtown Jasper, the Cigar Box carries a wide selection of premium cigars worldwide.
They also have a knowledgeable and friendly staff that can help you choose the perfect cigar for your tastebuds.
The Cigar Box sells tobacco, pipes, and premium cigars.
Whether you’re after a box of Crowned Heads, the iconic Montecristo’s, or the locally popular Southern Draw, you can find them all—and more—at the Cigar Box.
If you’re looking to enjoy a good cigar in a relaxed and luxurious setting, visit the Cigar Box the next time you’re in Jasper, AL.
Located south of downtown Jasper, the Walker County Public Lake Dam is a great place to enjoy some fishing.
The dam is stocked with largemouth bass, catfish, and bream, so you’re sure to catch something.
The Public Lake Dam is also a great place to go for a walk or a hike.
The scenic views will surely please your eyes while the fresh air revitalizes your spirit.
If you’re looking for a great place to fish or enjoy the outdoors, check out the Walker County Public Lake Dam.
It’s a great place to spend time with family and friends or quality time alone.
Rudi Weikard, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The first thing on this list of things to do in Jasper, AL, is visiting the Downtown Historic District.
This area is full of beautiful old buildings that date back to the city’s coal mining heyday from the 1920s to the 1940s.
Located in the heart of the city, the Jasper Downtown Historic District encompasses the streets surrounding the Walker County Courthouse.
Other iconic buildings in the area include the Jasper City Hall, Post Office, Masonic Temple, and several old warehouses.
Many of these buildings now house shops, restaurants, and businesses, so it’s a great place to stroll, window shop, and grab a bite to eat.
A memorable trip starts with finding suitable accommodation.
The Hampton Inn in Jasper is the perfect place to stay when you’re in town.
The hotel offers comfortable rooms, a fitness center, a complimentary breakfast, and an outdoor pool.
The friendly staff will make you feel at home, and the convenient location is just minutes from all the best places in Jasper.
When planning your next trip, book your stay at the Hampton Inn.
Located in the northern part of Jasper, AL, the Creak Creek Recreation Area is one of Jasper’s prime outdoor locations.
The recreation area includes various activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, and kayaking.
There are also plenty of scenic views, so be sure to bring your camera.
The Clear Creek Recreation Area is great for spending a day or even a weekend.
Campgrounds and cabins are available, so you can make it an overnight trip.
Check out the Clear Creek Recreation Area if you want to get away and embrace real outdoor fun and adventure.
Twisted Barley Brewing isn’t the only taproom in Jasper, AL.
The Tallulah Brewing Company is also worth a visit.
Located just two blocks from Twister Barley Brewing, the Tallulah Brewing Company taproom has a variety of beers on tap and a full kitchen.
The taproom is open six days a week and offers a variety of events such as live music, trivia night, and more.
However, the highlight goes to their homemade beers.
The Tallulah Brewing Company also serves hard seltzers, wines, cocktails, and cider.
So, if you’re looking for a place to enjoy a good beer and some good company, check out the Tallulah Brewing Company.
If you’re planning a trip to Jasper and want to enjoy some time on the water, check out Pine Valley Outdoor Living.
Pine Valley Outdoor Living offers a variety of water sports gear for rent, such as kayaks, pontoon boats, paddleboards, banana boats, water trampolines, and more.
The lakes in and around Jasper are the perfect place to enjoy some time on the water.
Pine Valley Outdoor Living will ensure you have everything you need to make the most of your time.
You can’t end your Jasper trip without eating some good food at Warehouse 3 Nineteen.
Located in the heart of Jasper, Warehouse 3 Nineteen is one of the best breakfast spots in town.
The restaurant is open five days a week and offers a variety of breakfast items, such as pancakes, waffles, eggs, bacon, sausage, omelets, and more.
The friendly staff will make you feel at home, and the food will hit the spot.
A full fun day in Jasper can also mean spending it at Sonny’s Family Fun Center.
The amusement center features arcades, batting cages, a go-kart track, an 18-hole mini-golf course, and an inflatable room filled with slides and a castle.
Many birthday parties and special events are also held here, especially since there are plenty of fun activities to do for all ages.
Sonny’s Family Fun Center is perfect for traveling families seeking fun and exciting things to do in the city.
You can find it off Highway 69.
For Frisbee players, you can have your time of life at North Jasper Park, which features a disc golf course.
Established in 2010, the 16-acre park has a nicely laid out 18-hole disc golf course with concrete tees and challenging holes.
Holes 1 to 5 though are fairly easy, but the rest are challenging and a little difficult to deal with.
Also, most of the holes here are out of bounds in circle 1, which is a challenge.
But whether you’re a beginner or an advanced Frisbee player, the course will give you great company!
North Jasper Park is located at Coral Boulevard.
Jud McCranie, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The First United Methodist Church was built in 1921 through local businessman Lycurgus Breckenridge Musgrove, and its congregation can be dated back to the 1830s.
It was built in the Beaux-Arts architectural style, which is considered one of the best in the State of Alabama.
A 1974 tornado destroyed the major parts of the church, but they were repaired the following year with the stained glass windows being replaced with a modern style.
The First United Methodist Church though has maintained its classic neoclassical structure.
In 1985, the church entered the National Register of Historic Places.
You can see the church on 3rd Avenue.
Who needs other drinks if there’s delicious coffee at Lavish Coffee Bar?
This quaint coffee shop makes coffee that’s locally sourced and serves it in a warm and cozy atmosphere with friendly smiles.
Try its popular mocha, espresso, latte, cold brew, hot chocolate, Americano, and many more.
Its signature Lavish Mocha is a must-try!
Vegans and vegetarians can also opt for almond and oat milk.
Also, don’t skip its deliciously baked pastries!
Visit Lavish Coffee Bar at 19th Street East.
If you need to read a new book while in the city, Jasper Public Library is the best spot to find it and take solitude in its comfortable reading nooks.
The library holds a great selection of books, audiobooks, e-books, historical photographs, and many other resources for all ages.
There’s a special section for kids with a wide selection of titles for their age, which is great if you’re traveling with your little ones.
Jasper Public Library is part of the Carl Elliott Regional Library.
It’s located off 18th Street East.
You can’t visit a Southern state like Alabama without indulging in some of the best southern cooking.
Black Rock Bistro is a local restaurant that specializes in southern cuisine.
Find it in Dora, Alabama, 22 minutes from Jasper.
This cozy restaurant is located just across the street from the Walker County Courthouse.
It offers a creative menu that features some iconic southern fare.
Some of the must-try dishes include fried green tomatoes, scallops, oysters, blackened catfish, shrimp and grits, and chicken pot pie.
Black Rock Bistro is also known for its generous portions and family-friendly atmosphere.
Just a short drive from downtown Jasper, AL, Sleepy Holler Campground is the perfect place to enjoy the great outdoors while basking in its outdoor wonders.
Find this place in Cordova, Alabama, 13 minutes from Jasper.
The campground features cabins, RVs, and tent sites in the woods.
Whether you’re looking to enjoy a weekend away from the city or planning a more extended vacation, Sleepy Holler Campground is the perfect place to stay.
The campground is the perfect outdoor experience, filled with tall trees, a bubbling creek, and fresh mountain air.
You can go hiking, fishing, or relax at your campsite.
If you want to get away from it all and enjoy the great outdoors, check out Sleepy Holler Campground.
Boshell’s Mill is a historical site located just outside Jasper.
This site is in Carbon Hill, Alabama, 17 minutes from Jasper.
The gristmill was built in 1832 and operated until the early 1900s.
The Bosell family in Walker County originally operated the Mill.
It was initially a steam-powered mill until the Boshell family expanded their business by adding a dam built using locally quarried stone.
The Mill is now on the National Register of Historic Places as a site that features the area’s rich history.
Boshell’s Mill also serves as a museum that houses various artifacts from the Jasper area.
If you’re interested in seeing a piece of living history, check out Boshell’s Mill.
No matter your interests, there’s something for everyone in this historic city of Jasper, Alabama.
From outdoor escapades to learning about the city’s rich history to enjoying some excellent beer downtown, there are plenty of things to do in Jasper.
So, what are you waiting for?
Start planning your trip to Jasper today, and make sure you include all of these must-do activities on your list.
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