New to The University of Alabama? We’ve got the inside scoop on local favorites and hidden gems that every student and parent should check out in Tuscaloosa.

If you’re looking to explore campus like a local, check out this list of must-visit spots!

Mirrored Elephant

What: Mirrored Elephant
Where: 421 Queen City Ave, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 | The University Club
When: Anytime (however often used for special events)
About: The mirrored elephant stands 12 feet tall and is made from 20,000 disco tiles. The statue took 350 hours to complete and was commissioned by The University Club.

Waysider

What: Waysider
Where: 1512 Greensboro Ave, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
When: Tuesday-Friday, 5:30AM-1:30PM; Saturday, 5:30AM-12PM; Sunday, 6:30AM-1PM
About: Waysider is the oldest restaurant in Tuscaloosa known for its delicious breakfast and connection to Alabama football. Coach Bear Bryant regularly dined here (and recommends the country ham!)
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Walk of Champions

What: Walk of Champions
Where: 920 Paul W Bryant Dr, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (North End Zone Plaza of Bryant-Denny Stadium)
When: Anytime
About: Walk of Champions is a brick-paved walkway that commemorates coaches, players and championships. The Crimson Tide football team participates in a processional entrance here before home games as part of a pre-game tradition.

Gorgas Library

What: Amelia Gayle Gorgas Library
Where: 711 Capstone Dr, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487
When: Monday-Thursday, 7:30-12AM; Friday, 7:30AM-8PM, Saturday, 10AM-8PM, Sunday 11AM-12AM
About: Gorgas Library was built in 1939 on the site of the first campus library that was destroyed during the Civil War. It was designed in the Classical Revival style, reflecting the Beaux-Arts tradition.
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Gallettes

What: Gallettes
Where: 1021 University Blvd, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
When: Monday-Thursday, 6PM-2AM; Friday-Saturday, 6PM-3AM (with additional hours on game days)
About: Hidden to outsiders inside the Campus Party Store building, Gallettes is a popular bar that is a favorite on game days. They are best known for their famous Yellow Hammer drink—a fruity drink served in a classic yellow souvenir cup.
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Marr’s Spring

What: Marr’s Spring
Where: 851-899 Campus Dr, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (near Ten Hoor Hall and Rowand Johnson Hall)
When: Anytime
About: Known for its natural beauty, Marr’s Spring was the primary water source for UA until the 20th century. Now, the spring has been restored for students and visitors to enjoy nature and relax.

The Crimson Promenade

What: The Crimson Promenade
Where: Located between B.B. Comer and Woods Quad, near The University of Alabama Student Center
When: Anytime
About: The Crimson Promenade celebrates generations of UA students and alumni with brick pavers. The pathway is filled with personal dedications, benches and beautiful landscaping.

Woods Quad

What: Woods Quad
Where: 900 Colonial Dr, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (near Woods Hall)
When: Anytime
About: Woods Quad was the site of the first Alabama Crimson Tide football games. Now, it is home to a sculpture garden featuring the works of local artists, students and faculty that is the perfect spot for hanging out with friends.

Alabama Museum of Natural History

What: Alabama Museum of Natural History
Where: 427 Sixth Ave, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487
When: Monday-Saturday, 10AM-4:30PM
About: This museum is the oldest in the state and depicts the natural diversity of Alabama since the Age of Dinosaurs. It features many different exhibits, including the famous Hodges Meteorite, right on campus.
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Chuck’s Fish

What: Chuck’s Fish
Where: 508 Greensboro Ave, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
When: Sunday, 5PM-9PM; Monday-Thursday, 5PM-10PM; Friday-Saturday, 4PM-11PM
About: Chuck’s Fish is a popular seafood restaurant located in Downtown Tuscaloosa. The food is sourced from their own wholesale market, and the restaurant also has an award-winning sushi bar curated by renowned chef Yoshie Eddings.
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What is your favorite spot near campus? Let us know by tagging The Bama Buzz on Instagram, X, Facebook + LinkedIn.