5 walkable cities in Alabama for the perfect afternoon stroll

It’s my favorite time of year for a few reasons—flannel shirts are back in style, pumpkin spice lattes are dotting coffee shop menus, and it’s the perfect weather to explore somewhere new.

If the fall vibes have you wanting to go on a little adventure, we can help with five walkable (and adorable) cities in Alabama.

We’re using walkability scores from the aptly named WalkScore.com, a site that evaluates the pedestrian accessibility of neighborhoods and communities across America.

Homewood

Walkability score: 42

Homewood is, by far, the most walkable community in the Birmingham metro area. Its adorable downtown, dotted with restaurants, retail stores and entertainment options make for a great outing for any family.

Distinct neighborhoods like Edgewood and Hollywood are similarly walkable, adding an extra layer of exploration.

Want to walk through Homewood? Our besties at Bham Now have everything you need to know.

Florence

Walkability score: 32

While Florence has a lower walk score than a town like Fairhope or Homewood, its accessible and historic downtown strip makes for a great afternoon of walking and perusing shops.

You can visit a historic soda shop or grab a great slice of (pizza) pie, all without hopping in your car.

Taking a trip to Florence? Read these first:

• Alabama’s oldest river bridge, The Old Railroad Bridge in Sheffield
• Florence’s GunRunner Boutique Hotel named best Boutique Hotel by USA Today
• Staggs Grocery, a Florence favorite since 1937

Fairhope

Walkability score: 79

The most walkable downtown in Alabama is decidedly Fairhhope. The bustling, yet quaint, downtown area is a huge draw for locals and tourists alike, as you can get everything from specialty teas to one of Guy Fieri’s favorite bites on the Gulf Coast (Panini Pete’s, anyone?).

Walkability is such a top priority here that city leaders ensured ample free, public parking all around downtown—so you can ditch your car as soon as you hit the town.

Want to explore the Eastern Shore? Give these a read:

• National publications love Fairhope’s Sunset Pointe—and you will, too
• Your guide to the perfect day in downtown Fairhope (on a budget)
• This coastal Alabama golf course is one of the best for women

Huntsville

Walkability score: 24

Also lower on the walkability scale, Huntsville made our list because it does have a walkable downtown area. While the sprawing suburbs may bring the overall walkability score down a good bit, the North Alabama town still has a robust urban area great for pedestrians.

Got a visit to Huntsville on the books? Our friends at Hville Blast have everything you need to know.

Athens

Walkability score: 21

Similar to Huntsville, Athens suburbs drag down the walkability score but the historic downtown strip is what put it on our list.

It’s a great place to spend an afternoon grabbing some yummy lunch and visiting a few historic sites before heading off for your next adventure.

Planning a trip to Athens soon? Check out these stories:

• Experience the nostalgia at UG White Mercantile in Athens
• Your guide to Irons & Ales — Athens’ new golf bar
• Your guide to good eats + sweet treats on the square in Athens

Which of these walkable small towns is your favorite? Let us know on Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn.