20 Things to Do in Cullman, AL for a Surprisingly Fun Weekend

Cullman, Alabama isn’t the kind of place that brags—but it should. Nestled between Birmingham and Huntsville along I-65, this small city blends deep German heritage, natural beauty, and local flavor into a destination that surprises just about everyone who gives it a chance.

Whether you’re on a road trip through North Alabama or planning a low-key weekend getaway, Cullman offers more than just a pit stop. You’ll find everything from monastic art parks and covered bridges to craft breweries, historic downtown strolls, and one of the cleanest lakes in the Southeast.

This guide covers 20 of the best things to do in Cullman—from peaceful hikes to platefuls of smoked barbecue. It’s packed with practical tips, cultural context, and experiences that give the city its quiet charm.

If you’ve ever wondered what happens when Old World roots meet Southern hospitality, you’ll find the answer here—served with a side of hush puppies and a dash of folklore.

1. Ave Maria Grotto

📍 1600 St Bernard Dr SE, Cullman, AL 35055

Ave Maria Grotto is a four-acre outdoor park in Cullman filled with over 125 miniature replicas of religious landmarks from around the world. Each structure was built by Brother Joseph Zoettl, a Benedictine monk who spent decades creating detailed models using concrete, marbles, shells, and even recycled items like tiles and glass. His creations include famous sites like St. Peter’s Basilica, the Tower of Babel, and scenes from Bethlehem—all recreated in miniature with surprising precision.

Brother Joseph worked mostly alone in a small workshop on the Abbey grounds. Despite physical limitations and limited materials, he turned discarded items into art that now attracts visitors from across the country. His dedication helped turn the grotto into an internationally recognized site of Catholic folk art and a major point of interest for Alabama heritage tourism.

Visitors follow a paved walking path through the landscaped grounds, stopping to view each model and read about its history and religious significance. Some models reflect Biblical stories, while others are based on real-world cathedrals, temples, and monuments. The craftsmanship reflects both spiritual intention and creative ingenuity, blending devotional themes with artistic expression.

The grotto is maintained by the Benedictine monks of St. Bernard Abbey and continues to be a place for quiet learning, cultural appreciation, and spiritual reflection. Informational plaques offer context throughout the path, making it especially educational for students, history lovers, and architecture enthusiasts.

2. Clarkson Covered Bridge

📍 1240 Co Rd 1043, Cullman, AL 35057

Clarkson Covered Bridge is one of the few remaining historic covered bridges in Alabama, originally built in 1904 to help farmers and travelers cross Crooked Creek. Spanning 270 feet, it served as a vital connection for local trade routes and rural communities in Cullman County before modern roads were established. The bridge was partially destroyed in a flood in 1921 but later restored, preserving its original wooden truss design and stone piers.

Today, the bridge is the centerpiece of a quiet public park that includes a working grist mill replica, a log cabin, and several short walking trails. Interpretive signs along the path explain the bridge’s history, construction, and significance during Alabama’s early 20th-century development. Its design follows the Town Lattice truss style, known for both beauty and strength, using crisscrossed wooden beams without the need for nails.

In addition to its historical importance, the bridge has become a popular location for photography, especially in fall when surrounding trees turn bright shades of red and gold. Seasonal events and school field trips often make use of the site to teach local history and early engineering methods.

The bridge and adjacent picnic areas are free to visit and open daily from morning to dusk. Most of the park, including trails and restrooms, is wheelchair accessible. It’s a practical stop for travelers interested in Alabama’s rural heritage and the evolution of American bridge design.

3. Sportsman Lake Park

📍 1544 Sportsman Lake Rd NW, Cullman, AL 35055

Sportsman Lake Park is a family-friendly recreation area in Cullman centered around a shallow, spring-fed lake, offering low-cost outdoor activities in a relaxed setting. Originally developed as a WPA project in the 1930s, the park has evolved into a local favorite with amenities for visitors of all ages.

The park features a small train ride that circles part of the lake, a splash pad for children, paddle boats, mini golf, and an accessible playground. A paved walking trail loops around the lake, passing by shaded picnic areas, fishing spots, and a variety of wildlife—turtles, ducks, and herons are commonly seen. Seasonal features like the splash pad and train run mainly in spring and summer, while the trails, pier, and picnic shelters are open year-round.

Beyond its recreational value, Sportsman Lake Park supports environmental education through posted signage and a small aviary that once housed injured native birds. It’s also used by local schools for outdoor learning and by fitness groups for walking clubs and low-impact workouts.

4. Cullman Downtown Historic District

📍 First Ave NE & surrounding streets

Cullman’s Downtown Historic District reflects the city’s German heritage through its architecture, festivals, and preserved small-town charm. Established in the late 1800s by German immigrant John Cullmann, the district features original brick buildings, decorative ironwork, and murals that tell stories of the town’s roots.

Walking through the district, visitors will find a mix of locally owned boutiques, antique shops, art galleries, cafes, and breweries. The area is known for its restored facades and wide sidewalks, making it easy to explore on foot. Many buildings still carry the original craftsmanship of early German-American settlers, blending function with distinct Old World character.

Public art installations and seasonal decorations give the district a lived-in, welcoming atmosphere. The community often gathers here for events like Oktoberfest, Christmas markets, and First Friday art nights. These events draw locals and visitors alike, turning downtown into a hub of live music, food trucks, and street vendors.

5. Cullman County Museum

📍 211 2nd Ave NE, Cullman, AL 35055

Cullman County Museum builds on the story introduced by the surrounding historic district, offering a deeper look into the people, cultures, and forces that shaped Cullman. Located just steps from downtown, the museum sits inside a replica of founder John Cullmann’s home—a nod to the city’s German roots and immigrant legacy.

Exhibits cover a wide range of local history, beginning with Native American life in the region and moving through pioneer settlement, Civil War activity, and the city’s founding in 1873. Each room focuses on a different theme: agriculture, domestic life, geology, and transportation. Artifacts include 19th-century tools, early photographs, and everyday items used by Cullman’s first families.

One of the most unique features is the gallery devoted to Cullmann himself, offering original letters, portraits, and a timeline of his efforts to attract German settlers to north Alabama. Together, the displays give context to the buildings, festivals, and traditions still visible in the historic district today.

6. Smith Lake Park

📍 403 Co Rd 386, Cullman, AL 35057

Smith Lake Park sits on the shores of Lewis Smith Lake, known for its unusually clear water and deep, winding coves. Managed by Cullman County Parks & Recreation, the park blends traditional camping with water-based recreation and family-friendly amenities.

Visitors come for fishing, swimming, and kayaking in one of the cleanest lakes in the Southeast. The swimming beach offers easy lake access in warmer months, while a large fishing pier and multiple boat ramps serve anglers year-round. Campsites range from primitive tent areas to full RV hookups, with picnic shelters, playgrounds, and paved walking paths scattered throughout.

The park is especially popular during holidays and summer weekends, when local events like fireworks shows, music festivals, and fishing tournaments draw crowds. On quieter weekdays, it becomes a peaceful retreat for walking, birdwatching, or simply relaxing by the water.

7. Goat Island Brewing

📍 1646 John H Cooper Dr SE, Cullman, AL 35055

Goat Island Brewing is Cullman’s original craft brewery, known for its laid-back taproom and locally inspired beer lineup. The name comes from a small island on nearby Smith Lake, once home to a wandering herd of goats—now immortalized on every bottle and can.

Founded by a group of friends who turned a homebrewing hobby into a full-scale operation, Goat Island has grown into a hub for live music, food trucks, and community events. The taproom is located in a converted industrial space just outside downtown and features rotating small-batch releases alongside flagship beers like their Blood Orange Berliner Weisse and Richter’s Pils.

Visitors can order flights, pints, or growlers to go, and there’s usually a local food vendor on-site Thursday through Saturday. The brewery hosts open mic nights, trivia, and seasonal events like Oktoberfest celebrations and small beer festivals. Seating includes indoor tables and a dog-friendly patio.

The space is fully accessible, with plenty of free parking and a relaxed, come-as-you-are vibe.

8. Hurricane Creek Park (near Cullman)

📍 22550 AL-31, Vinemont, AL 35179

Hurricane Creek Park is a scenic natural area located just north of Cullman, known for its deep canyon, exposed rock formations, and diverse plant and bird life. The park covers over 60 acres and sits within a sandstone gorge, where bluffs rise more than 60 feet above the forest floor.

Its network of hiking trails ranges from easy to moderate, weaving through hardwood forests, cliffside overlooks, and narrow passages like Twilight Tunnel and Dead Man’s Squeeze—both popular with adventurous hikers and photographers. The terrain showcases Alabama’s natural geology, with boulders, caves, and layered rock walls shaped by centuries of erosion.

Because of its elevation changes and rugged paths, the trails are not wheelchair accessible, but they are well-marked and maintained by local volunteers and nature groups. The park is also a popular spot for rock climbing and birdwatching, especially during spring and fall migrations.

9. Cullman Oktoberfest

📍 Downtown Cullman (October)

Cullman Oktoberfest is the city’s biggest annual celebration, honoring its German heritage with four days of food, music, and community events each October. First held in 1982, the festival has grown into a regional favorite, combining traditional Bavarian elements with local Southern flair.

Held throughout the Downtown Historic District, the event features live polka bands, German folk dancers, and rows of food vendors serving bratwurst, schnitzel, pretzels, and local takes on classic dishes. A large beer garden showcases both German imports and craft brews from Alabama, including Cullman’s own Goat Island Brewing.

Beyond food and drink, the festival includes family-friendly attractions like parades, kids’ games, artisan markets, and the ever-popular wiener dog races. Many participants attend in full German dress—lederhosen, dirndls, and flower crowns are all welcome. Evening concerts and dance parties round out the celebration.

10. Weiss Cottage

📍 401 1st Ave SE, Cullman, AL 35055

Weiss Cottage is the oldest home in Cullman, built in 1875 by Dr. Aldo Weiss, one of the city’s early German settlers. The cottage reflects the simple architectural style common among immigrants who arrived during Cullman’s founding years—wood-frame construction, a central chimney, and modest living quarters designed for practicality.

Today, the building serves as a small house museum, maintained by the Cullman County Historical Society. While it isn’t open daily, tours are offered during local events or by special arrangement through the nearby Cullman County Museum. Inside, visitors can see preserved furnishings, photographs, and household tools that offer a glimpse into daily life in late 19th-century Alabama.

The structure has undergone careful preservation to maintain its original character while making it safe for public viewing. Interpretive signs outside provide context for self-guided viewing if the house is closed during your visit.

Because of its age and original layout, the cottage has limited accessibility—steps and narrow doorways may restrict access for some visitors. Parking is available nearby on the street.

11. St. Bernard Abbey & Retreat Center

📍 1600 St Bernard Dr SE, Cullman, AL 35055

St. Bernard Abbey is Alabama’s only Benedictine monastery, established in 1891 by monks from Bavaria who helped shape the early cultural and educational landscape of Cullman. The abbey remains an active monastic community, where monks live, work, and pray according to the Rule of St. Benedict. It also operates a retreat center and school, continuing its mission of hospitality and service.

The grounds are open to the public and offer a peaceful space for quiet walks, reflection, and spiritual retreat. The architecture is simple but purposeful—red brick buildings, a modest chapel, and well-kept gardens that reflect monastic values of simplicity and order. Visitors often pair a visit here with nearby Ave Maria Grotto, which is also located on abbey property.

The retreat center welcomes individuals and small groups seeking rest or spiritual renewal, with programs available throughout the year. While some areas of the abbey are reserved for the monastic community, public spaces include the chapel, gift shop, and designated walking paths.

Accessibility varies by building, but the main areas, including the chapel, are wheelchair accessible. Parking is free on-site. St. Bernard Abbey offers a quiet contrast to Cullman’s busier attractions—rooted in rhythm, tradition, and contemplative space.

12. 412 Public House

📍 412 2nd Ave SE, Cullman, AL 35055

412 Public House brings modern Southern cuisine to a historic downtown setting, blending comfort food with upscale presentation in one of Cullman’s most stylish dining spots. Housed in a restored early 20th-century building, the restaurant preserves exposed brick walls and original wood beams, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that suits both casual lunches and date-night dinners.

The menu focuses on elevated Southern classics—shrimp and grits, pimento cheese-stuffed burgers, and buttermilk fried chicken served with seasonal sides. Ingredients are locally sourced when possible, and the rotating specials often feature regional produce and Gulf seafood. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are also available.

The cocktail program is a highlight, offering craft takes on Southern staples like bourbon smashes, house-made syrups, and rotating seasonal drinks. The bar also includes local beers and a curated wine list, making it a good stop for both foodies and cocktail enthusiasts.

The dining room is fully accessible, with seating options that accommodate small and large groups. Street and lot parking are available nearby.

412 Public House strikes a balance between tradition and creativity—bringing a modern culinary voice to Cullman while honoring the region’s flavors, ingredients, and sense of place.

13. Warehouse District

📍 Near 1st Ave NE, Cullman, AL 35055

Cullman’s Warehouse District is a revitalized section of downtown where early 20th-century industrial buildings now house boutiques, cafés, and creative businesses. Once used for storing cotton, feed, and hardware, the warehouses have been restored with their original character intact—brick exteriors, steel beams, and wide-open interiors now filled with curated retail and small-town charm.

The district is popular for its walkable layout and mix of specialty shops. You’ll find everything from handmade jewelry and boutique clothing to home goods, baked treats, and locally roasted coffee. Many businesses are independently owned and reflect Cullman’s blend of traditional Southern values with a growing creative scene.

Several storefronts feature rotating displays of work by Alabama artisans, and weekend events often include sidewalk sales, live music, and pop-up food vendors. The area is also a favorite photo backdrop thanks to its rustic textures and mural walls.

Accessibility is well thought out, with ramps and wide walkways, and free parking is available nearby. The Warehouse District offers a slower-paced alternative to big-box shopping—an experience centered around craftsmanship, community, and thoughtful design.

14. WildWater Cullman (Seasonal)

📍 1701 Main Ave SW, Cullman, AL 35055

WildWater Cullman is a seasonal water park designed for families looking to cool off and have fun during Alabama’s hot summer months. Opened in 2021, the park offers modern water features and a clean, well-managed environment just a short drive from downtown.

Key attractions include a lazy river, multiple water slides, splash zones for younger children, and a large zero-entry pool that’s accessible to all ages. The layout is compact but efficient, making it easy for parents to keep an eye on their kids while still enjoying the park themselves. Shaded seating areas and rentable cabanas are available for those planning a longer stay.

Facilities include clean restrooms, a small concessions area, and lifeguards stationed throughout. The pool deck and bathrooms are wheelchair accessible, and the park staff is trained to assist guests with additional needs.

Admission is affordable—around $20 for adults and $15 for kids—with free parking on-site. WildWater is typically open from late May through early August, depending on weather and school calendars.

While not a large-scale water park, WildWater offers a convenient and affordable summer escape for locals and visitors traveling through Cullman with kids in tow.

15. Heritage Park Walking Trail

📍 1705 Lee Ave SW, Cullman, AL 35055

Heritage Park is one of Cullman’s most popular green spaces, offering a paved 1.3-mile walking trail, sports facilities, and shaded areas for rest and recreation. Unlike the more rural parks around Cullman, Heritage Park sits within city limits, making it an easy, low-effort stop for both locals and visitors who want a quick nature break without leaving town.

The trail loops around open fields, wooded patches, and small creek crossings, with benches and fitness stations placed at intervals. It’s popular with joggers, dog walkers, and parents pushing strollers, thanks to its fully ADA-accessible design. The surface is smooth and level, making it suitable for all fitness levels and mobility needs.

In addition to the trail, the park includes baseball fields, playgrounds, picnic pavilions, and seasonal flower beds maintained by the city. It’s a regular site for community events, youth sports games, and weekend farmers' markets.

16. Johnny’s BBQ

📍 1401 4th St SW, Cullman, AL 35055

Johnny’s BBQ has been a Cullman staple since 1963, serving hickory-smoked meats and classic Southern sides in a no-frills, family-style setting. It’s the kind of place where locals have their regular orders and out-of-towners are told, “You’ve gotta eat there at least once.”

The menu centers around pulled pork, chicken, ribs, and smoked sausage—all cooked low and slow over real wood. Portions are generous, prices are fair, and the flavor has stayed consistent over decades. The pork sandwich, topped with Johnny’s tangy house-made sauce, is a local favorite, along with their tender rib plates and crispy hush puppies.

Side options stick to tradition—potato salad, slaw, baked beans, and fried okra—each made fresh in-house. There’s no alcohol served, but the sweet tea is as Southern as it gets, poured over crushed ice in big plastic cups.

The building itself is modest, but service is quick and friendly. The dining area is fully accessible, with plenty of parking out front.

Johnny’s isn’t trying to be trendy. It’s classic Alabama barbecue—simple, satisfying, and steeped in community. For anyone exploring Cullman’s food scene, this spot offers a real taste of the region’s flavor and tradition.

17. Cullman County Fair (October)

📍 Cullman Fairgrounds, 1501 Sportsman Lake Rd NW

The Cullman County Fair is one of the longest-running and largest county fairs in Alabama, drawing thousands each October for a week of rides, food, and small-town tradition. Held at the Cullman Fairgrounds, the event combines classic carnival attractions with agricultural showcases that reflect the county’s deep farming roots.

Each year’s fair features a full midway with thrill rides, games, and vendors selling everything from cotton candy to smoked turkey legs. But what sets it apart are the livestock shows, canning competitions, and craft exhibits that highlight local talent and rural heritage. Events like the demolition derby, rodeo, and tractor pulls add extra excitement, especially for families and kids.

18. Goat Island on Smith Lake (Accessible by boat)

📍 Smith Lake (ask locals for directions)

Goat Island is a small, wooded island on Smith Lake that locals have turned into a bit of a legend. For years, the island was home to an actual herd of goats—placed there to clear brush and left to roam freely. The goats are long gone, but the name stuck, and the island remains a beloved destination for boaters and kayakers looking for a quiet place to anchor and explore.

There are no facilities, docks, or signs—just a stretch of rocky shoreline, trees, and the sense that you’ve found a spot that only locals talk about. Some visitors pack hammocks or paddleboards; others come for sunset picnics or to let their dogs run along the water’s edge. It’s a casual, unmarked experience—nothing curated, but entirely charming for those who like off-the-map places.

Access is water-only. Most people reach Goat Island by pontoon, kayak, or jet ski. There’s no formal address—ask around at marinas or launch points near Smith Lake Park for directions or coordinates.

This isn’t a guided attraction—it’s a choose-your-own-adventure kind of place. For those who enjoy quiet coves, simple pleasures, and local folklore, Goat Island is one of Smith Lake’s most talked-about hidden gems.

19. Three Sons Dutch Market

📍 2141 Co Rd 222, Cullman, AL 35057

Three Sons Dutch Market is a family-run store just outside Cullman, known for its Amish-style baked goods, deli meats, and bulk pantry staples. The moment you walk in, the smell of fresh bread and cinnamon rolls hits—warm, sweet, and unmistakably homemade.

The market specializes in scratch-made baked items like fried pies, soft pretzels, fruit-filled pastries, and its most famous offering: thick, sugary donuts made fresh each morning. Many regulars come just for the baked goods, but the deli counter is equally popular, offering sliced meats, cheeses, and made-to-order sandwiches stacked on fresh bread.

Shelves are stocked with bulk spices, preserves, soup mixes, candy, and pantry essentials—many sourced from Pennsylvania Dutch and Mennonite suppliers. It’s also a great spot to pick up regional items like sorghum syrup or chow chow, making it a favorite among home cooks and food lovers looking for quality ingredients.

The market is fully accessible, with wide aisles and friendly, helpful staff. Parking is free and usually easy to find, even on busy mornings.

Three Sons is less a tourist stop and more a part of everyday life in Cullman—but that’s what makes it special. It’s the kind of place where tradition and good food speak for themselves.

20. Festhalle Farmers Market

📍 209 1st Ave NE, Cullman, AL 35055

Festhalle Farmers Market is Cullman’s main hub for local produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts, held under a large, open-air pavilion inspired by traditional German market halls. Operating on Wednesdays and Saturdays from spring through fall, the market is both a shopping destination and a community gathering place.

Dozens of vendors line the covered space, offering everything from heirloom tomatoes and sweet corn to local honey, fresh-baked sourdough, jams, and seasonal flowers. Many of the farmers are from multi-generational family farms in Cullman County and nearby areas. It’s a great spot to stock up on real-deal Southern produce or find one-of-a-kind gifts from local makers.

While some visitors come for the fresh vegetables, others come just to connect—to chat with neighbors, sip coffee, and enjoy the rhythm of local life. For travelers, it’s a great way to experience Cullman’s personality in one of its most authentic, everyday spaces.

Conclusion

Cullman isn’t flashy—but that’s exactly what makes it special. It’s a place where old-world charm meets down-home Alabama hospitality, where you can hike bluffs in the morning, eat hickory-smoked pork for lunch, and sip craft beer beside a century-old warehouse by evening.

Whether you're passing through on I-65 or planning a weekend escape, Cullman offers a thoughtful mix of history, outdoor adventure, and local flavor. From peaceful spots like Ave Maria Grotto and Hurricane Creek Park to lively community events like Oktoberfest and the county fair, there’s something here for every kind of traveler—families, foodies, road-trippers, and curious wanderers alike.

What ties it all together is a strong sense of place. You’ll see it in the preserved buildings, the pride of local shop owners, the German flags flying downtown, and the way locals say “Hey” like they’ve known you for years. Cullman isn’t just a detour—it’s a destination with heart, heritage, and more than a few surprises.

FAQs

1. What is Cullman best known for?

Cullman is best known for its deep German roots, visible in its downtown architecture, festivals, and cultural institutions. The city was founded by German immigrant John Cullmann in the 1870s, and that heritage still shapes the local identity today. Major attractions like the Ave Maria Grotto, St. Bernard Abbey, and Cullman Oktoberfest draw visitors year-round. It’s also known for its balance of history, small-town charm, and access to scenic outdoor spaces like Smith Lake and Hurricane Creek Park.

2. Is Cullman a good stop for families?

Absolutely. Cullman offers plenty of family-friendly options that don’t feel overly commercial. Sportsman Lake Park is great for younger kids, with mini golf, train rides, paddle boats, and a splash pad in warmer months. WildWater Cullman is a seasonal water park that's affordable and easy to navigate. Festivals like the Cullman County Fair and Oktoberfest also offer live entertainment, games, and family zones. Most parks and venues are affordable or free, making Cullman a practical stop for traveling families.

3. When is the best time to visit Cullman?

The best times to visit Cullman are spring (March–May) and fall (late September–November). Spring brings mild weather, blooming trails, and the opening of the Festhalle Farmers Market. Fall is a standout thanks to colorful foliage, cooler temperatures, and events like Cullman Oktoberfest and the county fair. Summers can be hot and humid, but they're ideal if you plan to visit Smith Lake, WildWater, or enjoy outdoor concerts and fireworks. Winter is quieter, but downtown stays festive around the holidays.

4. Are there any free things to do in Cullman?

Yes—Cullman has a surprising number of free attractions. You can walk across the historic Clarkson Covered Bridge, hike through Hurricane Creek Park, or explore the Cullman Downtown Historic District with its murals, boutiques, and art installations. Heritage Park offers paved walking trails, fitness stations, and picnic spots without any entrance fee. The Festhalle Farmers Market is free to enter and great for browsing. Events like Oktoberfest and First Friday nights also feature free music and entertainment downtown.

5. Can you visit Goat Island without a boat?

No—Goat Island on Smith Lake is only reachable by water. There are no bridges, roads, or formal access points. To visit, you'll need a boat, kayak, or paddleboard, which can be rented from nearby marinas or brought in from Smith Lake Park’s launch points. It's a popular local hangout for boaters looking to swim, picnic, or relax off-grid. While it’s not an official park, many visitors treat it like a low-key day trip destination—just be sure to pack everything you’ll need.

6. How walkable is downtown Cullman?

Cullman’s Downtown Historic District is very walkable and well-maintained. The area includes wide sidewalks, curb ramps, crosswalks, and ADA-friendly paths that make it accessible for strollers and wheelchairs alike. Attractions like the Cullman County Museum, Warehouse District, restaurants, and boutiques are all within a few compact blocks. Parking is free on nearby streets and in public lots. It's an easy place to explore on foot, with plenty of spots to rest, grab coffee, or take photos along the way.

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