Gadsden
After experiencing decline in the late 20th century, Gadsden leaders were emboldened to create change in the community. These actions led to successful initiatives like the Cultural Arts Center and downtown redevelopment, as well as the city earning first place in the 2000 City Livability Awards Program. Since then, Downtown Gadsden’s efforts have continued to yield incredible results for the region and its economy.
In fact, thanks to its synergistic small business landscape and community support, Gadsden’s historic Main Street district is noticeably vibrant and cohesive. This is especially evident in downtown's popular events like First Fridays—when thousands of people attend and enjoy a festival-like atmosphere with antique car shows, entertainment, and merchant specials—and other events including the Downtown Art Experience, Third Thursday Concert Series, Girls’ Night Out, Shop Small for Fall, and its Christmas Open House series. An annual history and ghost walk also draw crowds to the shopping district throughout the year, along with a children's museum, youth orchestra, dance conservatory, and art exhibits.
Back Forty Beer Company—a Southern favorite that has since grown to include multiple locations—is also known to help bring in younger crowds to the area. And in addition to signature businesses like Back Forty, its events, walkability, downtown-wide sound system, galleries and museum, a green space near City Hall hosts a treasured mural and a kinetic wind sculpture that sits near another small greenscape memorializing September 11.
Recreation is another important element of the community, and a quick seven-minute drive from its downtown is the 90-foot waterfall at Noccalula Falls Park with 20 miles of walking and biking trails around the gorge. The James D. Martin Walking and Birding Trail is also nearby.
In the works is transforming historic City Hall into a hotel overlooking the Coosa River, potentially bringing more conferences, businesses and investment projects downtown.
But whatever the reason, taking the time to visit downtown Gadsden will prove to be more than worth the investment!
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