Founded in the 1850s, Oxford combines historic charm with action-packed outdoor adventures. Browse mom-and-pop shops along the atmospheric Main Street, float along Choccolocco Creek in inflatable tubes and explore a forest set at the foot of the Appalachian Mountains. Whatever you do, you’ll be greeted with the Southern hospitality Alabama is famous for.
Things to do in Oxford
Rent a tube and enjoy a leisurely float along Choccolocco Creek. The creek is one of Alabama’s premier tubing destinations and immerses you in the natural beauty of the Yellowhammer State. The Tallapoosa River is another prime tubing destination and features a series of family-friendly rapids and rocky shoals. Rent a kayak if you prefer a faster pace.
Climb Cheaha Mountain and unlock sweeping views over the surrounding peaks and forests. At more than 700 metres tall, it’s nicknamed the “Rooftop of Alabama” and is one of the highest points in the state. The out-and-back summit trail takes around two hours to complete.
Get off the beaten track in Talladega National Forest. The enormous forest borders the Appalachian Mountains and is home to black bears, white-tailed deer, coyotes and other wildlife. Multiuse trails crisscross the park and take you to scenic lookouts and shady picnic spots.
Enjoy the Alabama sunshine in Oxford Lake Park. Enjoy a picnic on the grassy foreshore, stretch your legs on the lakeside trail and let the kids burn off steam in the adventure playground. The park is home to the heritage-listed Coldwater Covered Bridge built in the 1850s.
Stroll along historic Main Street and admire a jewel box of pioneer-era architecture. Many of the buildings house independent boutiques, antique stores and Southern-style diners. Venues like the JC Morgan Art Gallery and Oxford Performing Arts Centre showcase the city’s creative side.
Getting around Oxford
Downtown Oxford is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. The city is in Calhoun County, a one-hour drive from Birmingham and 1.5 hours from Atlanta, Georgia. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is a 1.5-hour drive away.