ALBBAA announces new Alabama Black Belt Travel Guide

The Alabama Black Belt Adventures Association announced Tuesday that it has released the first-of-its-kind “Alabama Black Belt Travel Guide,” a 72-page glossy magazine designed to inspire exploration across the region’s 23 counties and help travelers discover what the region has to offer.

“The Alabama Black Belt is one of the South’s most captivating destinations, offering unforgettable experiences, rich history, breathtaking landscapes and authentic Southern hospitality,” the association said in a press release.

The travel guide, which includes trip ideas, attractions, lodging options, dining recommendations, outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, will “serve as the ultimate roadmap for discovering one of Alabama’s most remarkable regions,” the association said.

Printed copies are available at Alabama Welcome Centers and tourism destinations throughout the Black Belt, while a digital version is available online.

“Alabama’s Black Belt is truly a destination unlike any other,” Alabama Black Belt Adventures Association Director Pam Swanner said. “Whether you’re seeking world-class hunting and fishing, fascinating history, vibrant arts and culture, incredible food or a relaxing weekend getaway, you’ll find it here. The Black Belt offers authentic experiences that connect visitors to the people, places, and traditions that make Alabama special.”

The association said the Black Belt offers something for every traveler, from nationally recognized outdoor recreation opportunities to internationally significant Civil Rights landmarks. The guide showcases destinations such as the Freedom Quilting Bee in Wilcox County, Chattahoochee River Whitewater in Phenix City and Moundville Archaeological Park, while photography captures the region’s natural beauty.

Food lovers can learn about the region’s culinary scene through featured restaurants and the popular Flavors of the Black Belt Trail. Travelers can also explore the Black Belt Arts and Antique Trail, the Black Belt Mural Trail and “countless hidden gems that reflect the region’s creativity, heritage and historical significance,” the association said.

Outdoor enthusiasts can find opportunities to hunt, fish, bird-watch, hike and explore Alabama’s rivers, forests, wildlife areas and state parks. The guide also highlights the region’s signature festivals and events, including the Selma Bridge Crossing Jubilee, the Airing of the Quilts in Gee’s Bend and Christmas on the River in Demopolis, celebrations that draw visitors from across the country each year.

The Alabama Black Belt Travel Guide also highlights the Black Belt’s singers, songwriters and literary figures, while featuring a section dedicated to children’s activities and a fold-out map showing the region’s 23-county footprint.

“Our goal is to inspire people to experience the Black Belt for themselves,” Swanner said. “This guide helps travelers discover new adventures, create lasting memories and experience the authentic culture, history and hospitality that make this region so special.”

Alabama Black Belt Adventures Association founder and board president Thomas Harris said the travel guide serves as an invitation and a resource.

“There is an incredible variety of experiences waiting to be discovered throughout the Black Belt,” Harris said. “This guide helps visitors plan their journey while showcasing the stories, attractions, traditions and people that make the region one of Alabama’s greatest treasures.”

The online version is available through the association’s website at https://digitalmagazine.walker360.com/alabamablackbelttravelguide/.

The Black Belt includes the following 23 counties: Barbour, Bullock, Butler, Choctaw, Clarke, Conecuh, Crenshaw, Dallas, Greene, Hale, Lee, Lowndes, Macon, Marengo, Monroe, Montgomery, Perry, Pickens, Pike, Russell, Sumter, Tuscaloosa and Wilcox.