Decatur
Located in the heart of North Alabama, Downtown Decatur is more than just a collection of buildings and streets; it's a vibrant area of culture and community that creates a sense of belonging. Here, locals and visitors come together to celebrate and enjoy each other’s similarities and differences that make this place so special.
Let’s take a journey through the heart of Decatur, showcasing the events, attractions, and exciting developments that make this downtown district truly unique.
A Year of Festivals and Fun
Decatur has a lively events calendar that keeps residents and visitors engaged year-round. Whether you're a runner, history lover, music fanatic, or just someone looking for a good time, there's something for everyone:
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Downtown Decatur Runs: Join local running clubs or participate in races like Carnival Frolic in February.
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St. Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl: Enjoy a lively St. Patrick's Day celebration in March with music, games, dining, and family-friendly activities in downtown.
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Historic Garden Tour: Explore beautiful gardens in the historic district during spring.
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Jazz Under the Stars: Attend a free spring community concert with dinner fundraisers, art displays, and more.
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Morgan County – Decatur Farmers Market: From April to November, savor locally grown fruits and vegetables at this market.
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Paul Stroud Concerts by the River: Enjoy free concerts in June and July at Rhodes Ferry Park overlooking the Tennessee River.
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Decatur Christmas Parade: Join the Christmas parade in Downtown Decatur on the first Monday in December, featuring floats, bands, and Santa.
Shop and Explore
Downtown Decatur isn't just about events; it's also a shopper's paradise and a haven for history enthusiasts. In Downtown Decatur, you'll find diverse shopping options and historical attractions. The Bank Street Shopping District, the city's oldest shopping area, offers a wide range of unique products. The 2nd Avenue Shopping District, near the Cook Museum of Natural Science and Princess Theatre for Performing Arts, has boutiques, household goods, books, art, and more. You can explore attractions like the Cook Museum of Natural Science, Old State Bank & Museum, Downtown Turtle Trail, and the Princess Theatre for the Performing Arts. The Morgan County Archives displays exhibits about the Civil War and the famous "Scottsboro Boys" trial. You can also discover Decatur's railroad history at the Historic Depot and Railroad Museum, which features rare model trains and outdoor viewing areas.
Dining Delights
After all your exploration, you'll definitely be hungry. Downtown Decatur has a variety of dining options to choose from. Cross-Eyed Owl Brewing Company and Tap Room is perfect for craft beer lovers, offering a welcoming atmosphere to try locally brewed beers. The Brick Deli is a local favorite known for its delicious sandwiches and hearty soups. If you're craving barbecue, Moe's BBQ has slow-smoked meats and Southern sides to satisfy your taste buds. Josie's Mediterranean Cafe offers fresh and flavorful Mediterranean dishes like gyros and falafel. Simp McGhee’s is a Southern seafood and steakhouse known for its classic dishes and warm hospitality, great for a special night out. Bank Street Grill has a diverse menu with something for everyone, whether you want a burger, steak, or seafood. Hard Dock Cafe, by the Tennessee River, is a popular spot for casual dining with a waterfront view, perfect for relaxing and enjoying a meal while taking in the scenic river beauty.
A Glimpse into the Future
Downtown Decatur is evolving with exciting new developments over the next 2-5 years:
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6th Ave. Corridor Project: This big project aims to improve the entrance to Downtown Decatur. It involves moving utilities underground, creating sidewalks that are easy for everyone to use, adding better lighting for pedestrians, making safe crossings, and adding new plants and islands along the streets. This will make Downtown Decatur more welcoming and accessible for everyone.
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New Alabama Center for the Arts Additions: The Alabama Center for the Arts (ACA) is getting bigger and better. By 2025, ACA plans to build a modern music and dance building. They also bought the Eyster Key building on 4th Avenue, which will be renovated for graphic design and multimedia classes, making the downtown campus even better.
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New Residential Developments: Downtown Decatur is growing, and two exciting housing projects are coming up. A new building with over 100 apartments and shops on 2nd Ave/Grant will start being built in 2024. This will give more housing options and make the downtown area more lively. Another exciting project is a new building with over 200 apartments and shops on Bank Street, starting in 2025. These developments will help shape the future of Downtown Decatur as it continues to grow and change.
Downtown Decatur
As you can see, Downtown Decatur is a dynamic and ever-evolving community that invites you to join in the celebrations, explore its history, and look forward to an exciting future. Whether you're a local or a visitor, there's always something to discover and enjoy in this vibrant downtown district. Come and be a part of the magic that is Downtown Decatur!
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