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Fresh & Local Flavor in Montgomery

Young Professionals Edition

As a young professional, you might find yourself looking to escape hustle culture to reclaim your time as your own. Montgomery, AL, is the ideal spot for a weekend getaway, offering a mix of fresh air, laid-back vibes, and unforgettable local attractions. This is the kind of place where two days simply aren’t enough, and a long weekend invites you to leisurely lunches, a stroll along scenic trails, or a quick trip to a neighboring town. To make it easier for you to enjoy some fun without getting bogged down by too many choices, we've put together a flexible plan that will lead you to an exciting weekend in Montgomery.

DAY 1

South Fork Cafe

New to Montgomery, Alabama, South Fork Cafe is a chic, Southern-style cafe serving breakfast, brunch, and lunch. The menu offers popular comfort foods like biscuits and gravy, hearty enough to satisfy your cravings. The meals are prepared fresh, coffee is brewed perfectly, and the service is southern hospitality in a relaxed dining room designed to cater to parties ranging from two to larger groups.

Afternoon/Early Evening

Settle in for an early show at the iconic Capri Theatre, a true historical gem that dates back to the 1940s. Nestled in the Old Cloverdale neighborhood, this charming venue has earned a special place in the hearts of cinephiles for its eclectic mix of screenings, ranging from cult classics to exclusive film festivals and new releases. The theatre underwent a major renovation in 2017, preserving its rich history while skillfully integrating modern comforts. With the addition of plush, inviting seating in 2018, your visit will be relaxing and comfortable as you lose yourself in the cinematic magic that unfolds on screen.

Lunch/Happy Hour Options

  • Check out the happy hour menu at Cork and Cleaver; most items are chef-inspired and seasonally themed to keep the offerings fresh and exclusive. When you're finished, before hopping in the car, stop by Village Green Records next door for some inspo to start or expand your vinyl collection.
  • Indo Bistro & Grill offers authentic traditional Indonesian cuisine. Make sure to order a sweet treat from the in-house bakery after your meal.
  • If you head further east, take your time to go in and out of the stores at the Shoppes at EastChase, then grab some juicy, spicy, hot chicken that will “Blow Your Mind” in the uniquely decorated Dave's Hot Chicken.
  • Q Note Billiards and Sim Golf is the ultimate happy-hour destination where fun meets friendly rivalry, while enjoying delicious bites to fuel your game.

Evening Entertainment

Before visiting Wind Creek Casino in East Montgomery, it's a good idea to freshen up. The casino is not just about gaming; it is home to two notable dining and entertainment venues that are sure to impress: Itta Bena and BB King's Montgomery. Both venues have excellent food and drink selections, often showcasing seasonal or holiday-themed specials. Plus, they’re well-known for their live entertainment, making them popular dining and entertainment choices.

Dinner Options

  • For a slightly fancier experience, enjoy a blend of elegance and contemporary dining with handcrafted cocktails at La Jolla.
  • For casual dining and entertainment, enjoy the Tipping Point, where you can eat and listen to live music.
  • Make a reservation at Frenchie's, a local restaurant serving international cuisine. This quaint and swanky restaurant will impress you with its French-inspired menu and drinks. While you wait for your table, stop by the locally owned specialty shop Things We Like, known for its eclectic mix of offerings inspired by the store owners' travels. After dinner, head to Pine Bar to keep the fun going with drinks and conversation.

DAY 2

Montgomery Whitewater

Begin your day at Montgomery Whitewater, where adventure awaits with thrilling whitewater rapids, exhilarating ropes courses, and scenic biking. Embrace the spirit of adventure and let your adrenaline soar as you choose your path. There are many activities to choose from, purchase an adventure pass for an entire day of excitement, or a single-activity pass to tailor your experience. The choice is yours; make it unforgettable. When it’s time to take a breather, head over to Eddy's, the conveniently located on-site restaurant. They serve everything from hand-held snacks to fresh salads, plus they even have treats for your four-legged companions. With both indoor and outdoor seating available, you can kick back on the patio, sip a drink, and enjoy the action on the water while you relax.

Evening Entertainment

  • Arts and culture play a pivotal role in Montgomery, making the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts an essential stop on your itinerary. With fresh collections and new exhibits introduced nearly every quarter, each visit offers the chance to uncover something new and exciting.
  • If you plan it right, catching a performance at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival is an experience you won’t want to miss. The range of productions includes timeless classics, Shakespearean works, contemporary plays, musicals, engaging shows for younger audiences, and dynamic new pieces. Many talented actors from around the globe come to perform at the festival, and the sets and costumes are meticulously crafted on-site, contributing to the authenticity of each show.

 

Dinner Options

Here is a short list of conveniently located restaurants downtown for dinner before you head to the next experience.

  • Central - Locally owned and celebrated for its wood-fired dishes crafted with the finest local and seasonal ingredients.
  • Ravello Ristorante - This locally owned Italian restaurant serves up authentic coastal Italian cuisine in an elegant and upscale setting. Renowned for its extensive wine selection and cellar, it offers a dining experience that delights both the senses and the palate.
  • Dreamland BBQ - A beloved local gem, this Alabama-born BBQ restaurant serves authentic Southern barbecue with mouthwatering flavors. Get ready to indulge in hearty bites that will leave you craving more.

DAY 3

Downtown Montgomery

Lunch

  • Plaza Pizza, located behind Legacy Plaza, offers New York-style thin-crust pizza with extra-large slices, made daily from fresh ingredients.
  • Little Donkey is a fun Southern-style Mexican restaurant that offers daily specials and a covered patio, perfect for a leisurely afternoon or evening.
  • Grab a Chicago-style hot dog from Oliver's with cheese fries. Once you're done, grab a sweet treat from around the corner at Lorraine's Bake Shop.
  • Hilltop Public House for an any-time-of-day pick-me-up, head to this coffee house by day or bar by night, neighborhood hangout.

Things to do

  • Enjoy the outdoors by booking a party boat cruise on the Sip n Cycle Pedal Cruise. Pack some drinks and snacks to enjoy at the dance party on the Alabama River.
  • The Harriot II Riverboat is a beautifully designed riverboat inspired by 19th-century style. Choose from a dinner cruise, sunset cruise, or blues cruise on the Alabama River.
  • There’s truly nothing like the electric atmosphere of a live sporting event, and in Montgomery, the excitement reaches new heights with the hometown team, the Montgomery Biscuits. Attending a game at DABOS Park is not just about watching baseball; it’s an experience that brings fans together in celebration of local spirit and community. The camaraderie and enthusiasm shared among fans make each gameday unforgettable.
  • Discover the life and legacy of Hank Williams, a legend in the Country Music Hall of Fame. Visit the Hank Williams Museum, pay your respects at his grave, and take a photo at the statue. This hidden gem is an enjoyable stop that is both educational and memorable.

 

Dinner

Enjoy an unrushed southern dining experience at AYA Soulful Dining, located inside EJI's Elevation Convention and Convening Center. Make reservations early to guarantee your table at one of Montgomery's favorite new upscale dining locations. The food is rich and inspired by bold flavors and traditional dishes, thoughtfully altered to bring a unique twist for a one-of-a-kind dining experience. Arrive early, before the sun goes down, so you can peruse Montgomery Square, one of the 4 Legacy Sites, and the Convening Centers' specially curated decor.

Evening Entertainment

These late-night locations are sure to be entertaining and keep you out a little later than you had anticipated.

DAY 4 - LONG WEEKEND

If you find yourself able to extend your 3-day weekend to four, consider taking a short drive to Wetumpka, a charming city nestled in Alabama's River Region. Wetumpka is gaining popularity, particularly for its stunning Wetumpka Impact Crater, a fascinating geological marvel created by a meteorite impact approximately 83–85 million years ago. Explore the crater via designated markers and trails, learn about its history and unique geology, and capture beautiful photos along the way.

Next, dive into the sights from HGTV’s “Hometown Takeover.” Check out the featured locations, including the iconic Big Fish House, vibrant murals, and the revitalized downtown shops. Continue your adventures with a stroll along the Riverside Sculpture Trail, where you can admire an array of quirky sculptures and public art installations lining the river and downtown. Alternatively, you might want to explore the Swayback Bridge Trail, a scenic 4.5-mile route around Lake Jordan, ideal for hiking, biking, or simply enjoying a walk. Once you've wrapped up your sightseeing, unwind at the Coosa River Craft House, a local bar that serves a great selection of craft beers, wine, and live music, with a riverside view.