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Bayou La Batre Today
By the People, for the People
Alabama Tourism Department Kicks Off Annual Walking Tour Series
Free community-led tours return to historic locations across the state in April
Apr. 4, 2026 at 8:40pm
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The Alabama Tourism Department's annual Saturday Walking Tours have returned, offering free, guided walking tours at historic locations across the state every Saturday in April. The opening tour was held in Cullman on April 4, led by local guide Ben Harrison, who shared the town's history and highlighted landmarks like the Mary Carter Store and the site of the former Esther Opera House. Additional tours are scheduled in over 30 cities and towns throughout the month, providing both residents and visitors a chance to explore local history and culture while getting some exercise.
Why it matters
The walking tours are an annual tradition that promote tourism, community engagement, and physical activity across Alabama. They allow locals to rediscover the history and architecture of their hometowns, while also introducing visitors to the unique character of different cities and towns. The tours support small businesses, historic preservation efforts, and healthy lifestyles in participating communities.
The details
The walking tours are free and open to the public, with each city or town providing a local guide to lead the experience. In Cullman, guide Ben Harrison led participants through the downtown area, sharing stories about historic buildings like the Mary Carter Store, which was previously a German bank, and the site of the former Esther Opera House that was destroyed in the 2011 tornado. Other stops included the Cullman Banana Supply building and the location of a former water tower. The tours are designed to be accessible for all ages and fitness levels, allowing both residents and visitors to explore at their own pace.
- The Alabama Tourism Department's annual Saturday Walking Tours returned on April 4, 2026.
- The Cullman tour was the opening walk of the series.
- Additional tours are scheduled every Saturday in April across over 30 cities and towns in Alabama.
- The final walk will be on Friday, April 24, during the Alabama Strawberry Festival.
The players
Ben Harrison
The local guide who led the walking tour in Cullman, sharing the town's history and highlighting landmarks.
Alabama Tourism Department
The state agency that organizes the annual Saturday Walking Tours program, providing free, community-led tours at historic locations across Alabama.
What’s next
The next Cullman walking tours will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, April 11 and 18, starting at the Cullman County Museum. The final walk in Cullman will take place on Friday, April 24, during the Alabama Strawberry Festival.
The takeaway
The Alabama Tourism Department's walking tour series provides a unique opportunity for both residents and visitors to explore the history, architecture, and culture of communities across the state in an engaging and accessible way. By promoting physical activity and supporting local businesses and historic preservation efforts, the tours help strengthen the sense of community pride and identity in participating cities and towns.
