Birmingham, Gulf Shores, Orange Beach named best vacation spots for families in Eastern U.S.

Fishing
(Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Tourism)

Looking for a great place to vacation as a family? TravelingMom, the national digital publication, has named two Alabama destinations to their 11 best places to travel in the Eastern U.S. 

Making the list… drumroll please… Birmingham and Gulf Shores/Orange Beach. 

Want to know why they made the list? Read on.

About TravelingMom

If you are looking for good wholesome traveling tips, bookmark the popular TravelingMom site. What sets this publication apart from everyone? It has got to be the “first hand” tips and vacation advice from their very talented writers. As a result, it is not surprising to see TravelingMom staff regularly appearing on shows like Good Morning America and the Today Show

The List

Reaching the 11 best places to travel in the Eastern U.S. list is no small feat. Our three Alabama communities are in pretty good company. The other cities include:

  • New York City
  • Dan, Virginia
  • Raleigh, NC
  • Charleston, SC
  • Orando, Florida
  • Sanibel and Captiva, Florida
  • Gatlinburg, Tennessee
  • Memphis, Tennessee
  • St. Simon’s Island

2 Alabama sites

What impressed the writers about Alabama?

Birmingham ~ The Magic City

Bham
Birmingham skyline on May 23, 2022. The bright colors occurred because of the Saharan Africa Layer plume. (Jon Paolone)

TravelingMom describes Birmingham as somewhat of a sleeper on the list – but you can tell the publication was impressed by places like the McWane Science Center, Birmingham Zoo and Birmingham Museum of Art. Our civil rights history also made an impression. 

“Let Alabama surprise you as a trendy, thoughtful, welcoming destination. Its Civil Rights Trail is a vital place to start, expecting culinary and arts wonders too.”

Iconic places weave history in forward-facing philosophies and Birmingham wraps the tough lessons in positives. Chefs and family farmers combine fresh, local and sustainable crops with traditional heritage foods or trendy international cuisine.”

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach

Gulf Shores
(Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Tourism)

We love TravelingMom’s opening pronouncement about Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.

 

“These sister cities are a hidden gem on the Gulf Coast.”

The site recommends renting a condo right on the beach and for adventurous types a “Cat Boat” and cruising around the bay looking for dolphins!

About the food?

“Don’t be surprised, however, if your favorite restaurant ends up being something completely unexpected.” 

Traveling Mom also advises folks to visit during “shoulder season” (October-December) for lower crowds and cheaper condo rentals.

Of course we are a little bit biased – but we think TravelingMom got it right adding Birmingham and Gulf Shores/Orange Beach to their list. Tell us what you think. Tag us on social media at @thebamabuzz     

Pat Byington
Pat Byington
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