Southern Living Writer Names Noccalula Falls the Most Beautiful Place in Alabama
Gadsden, Ala. – According to the City of Gadsden, Noccalula Falls Park has been recognized by a Southern Living magazine writer as the most beautiful place in Alabama, earning the top spot on a list of 20 breathtaking locations across the state.
The park, located in the heart of Gadsden, features a stunning 90-foot waterfall that plunges into a lush ravine. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, botanical gardens, campgrounds, and a variety of attractions including an animal barn and scenic overlooks. One of the most popular experiences is walking the short path behind the waterfall, where the cool spray provides a unique perspective of the natural wonder.
Noccalula Falls is also steeped in legend. According to local lore, a Native American woman named Noccalula leapt from the falls rather than marry a chief from a neighboring tribe. Her father, stricken with grief, renamed the falls in her honor.
City of Gadsden officials say the national recognition is a reflection of the area’s natural charm.
“We are proud to share that Noccalula Falls Park and Campground was recently recognized by Southern Living as the number one most beautiful place in Alabama,” city leaders said in a statement. “This honor is a true reflection of the natural beauty we are blessed with and a remarkable landmark we are proud to share with our community, visitors, and all who call Gadsden home.”
The list was curated by Southern Living writer and Alabama native Tara Massouleh McCay, who highlighted both iconic tourist destinations and hidden gems. “It’s a love letter to the state’s rich landscapes,” McCay said, noting that the top three selections may surprise even longtime residents.
Joining Noccalula Falls in the top three are Majestic Caverns in Childersburg—formerly known as DeSoto Caverns—famous for its dramatic onyx stalagmites and stalactites, and the Ave Maria Grotto in Cullman, a unique display of 125 miniature stone and cement replicas of famous landmarks created by Brother Joseph Zoetl.
From waterfalls to caves to handcrafted artistry, the list is a reminder of the diverse beauty Alabama has to offer.
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Noccalula Falls, Gadsden
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Majestic Caverns, Childersburg
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Ave Maria Grotto, Cullman
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Cahaba River
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Gulf Shores/Orange Beach
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Monte Sano State Park, Huntsville
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Birmingham Botanical Gardens, Birmingham
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Bellingrath Gardens & Home, Theodore
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Old Live Oak Cemetery, Selma
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Fairhope
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Gulf State Park, Gulf Shores
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Little River Canyon National Preserve, Fort Payne
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Cathedral Caverns, Woodville
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Dauphin Island
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Railroad Park, Birmingham
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Magnolia Springs
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Cheaha State Park, Delta
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Lake Guntersville
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Lake Martin
https://www.southernliving.com/author/tara-massouleh-mccay
https://www.southernliving.com/
https://www.noccalulafallspark.com/
https://www.cityofgadsden.com/
