Originally known as Gunter’s Ferry, Guntersville is a historic cotton processing city in northern Alabama. It was established in the early 19th century adjacent to the salt mine of John Gunter, the great-grandfather of the American vaudeville performer, Will Rogers. Guntersville overlooks the shores of Lake Guntersville, which was created in the 1930s with the damming of the Tennessee River.
Things to do in Guntersville
Occupying a 1936-built military armoury is the Guntersville Museum, which explores the people, events and industries that have shaped the area. Its exhibits include Native American artefacts and watercolour paintings by Frank Nelson, as well as a legendary local fishing boat known as “Mississippi Bill”. Bird lovers will appreciate the collection of native species mounted by Bessie Rayburn Samuel.
One of the city’s most popular recreational areas is Lake Guntersville State Park, which encompasses more than 2,000 hectares along the shores of its namesake lake. It boasts an 18-hole golf course, hiking and mountain biking trails, as well as a zip-lining course and a fishing centre. Closer to the city centre is Tom Jackson Park, where you’ll find a boat launch and a children’s playground.
Coincide your visit to Guntersville with a performance at the Whole Backstage Theatre, which presents four theatrical shows and a summer musical each year. This beloved community theatre is located a short walk from several restaurants where you can dine before or after your show, including Simmons’ Barbecue and the Rock House Eatery.
Getting around Guntersville
Guntersville is around 40 minutes’ drive from Huntsville and 1.5 hours from Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport, which has flights to destinations across the United States. Buses connect to Guntersville, although renting a car will give you greater freedom to explore the area.