Earlier this week, the Tuscaloosa community came together to celebrate local businesses. From restaurants to retailers, the event showcased a wide variety of West Alabama merchants.

Keep reading for details about the five different businesses we visited during Celebrate Local.

Tuscaloosa Metro Animal Shelter

My all-time favorite activity from the event was meeting the furry friends from the Tuscaloosa Metro Animal Shelter! The shelter brought in a truck parked outside of the River Market and attendants were able to climb aboard and visit with the animals. If you’re interested in adopting a new pet or volunteering with animals, check out their website below.

Address: 3140 Investigator Dornell Cousette St, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Hours: Open Monday-Tuesday, Thursday-Saturday | 12-6PM
Instagram | Facebook | Website

Jalapeños Mexican Grill

Another great business featured at Celebrate Local, Jalapeños Mexican Grill serves some of the best street tacos in town. I recommend the chorizo tacos with a Mezcal Dracarys margarita!

Locations: 4421 Old Birmingham Hwy, Tuscaloosa, AL 35404 | 1845 New Watermelon Rd, Tuscaloosa, AL 35406 | 4700 Rose Blvd, Northport, AL 35475
Hours: Sunday, 11AM-9PM | Monday-Thursday, 11AM-9:30PM | Friday-Saturday, 11AM-10:30PM
Instagram | Facebook | Website

Image Makers Salon & Spa

Another salon and spa featured at Celebrate Local, Image Makers meets all your beauty needs. From haircuts/colors to pedicures to massages, they do it all. I went to Image Makers all four years of college and give this business a 10/10.

Address: 2501 Gary Fitts St, Tuscaloosa, Alabama
Hours: Open Tuesday, 9AM-7PM | Wednesday 9AM-6PM | Thursday 9AM-7PM | Friday 9AM-6PM
Instagram | Facebook | Website

The Alamite: A Tribute Portfolio Hotel

Looking for somewhere to stay in Tuscaloosa? Look no further than The Alamite. This luxury hotel includes both a gourmet resteraunt and rooftop bar, which is also open to the general public. Fun fact: Mathew Mcconaughey stayed here during last season’s UT game.

Address: 2321 6th St, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Phone: (205) 860-7998
Instagram | Facebook | Website

Fleet Feet Tuscaloosa

Calling all athletes! Fleet Feet in Tuscaloosa sells a huge variety of running shoes to keep you up to speed (literally). They also sell sunglasses, hats, socks and more.