Tucked away in the rolling hills of northeast Alabama, Cherokee County is a destination that surprises you in the best
possible way. It’s where outdoor adventure meets small-town charm, where every meal tastes like it was made from scratch,
and where families can unplug and reconnect without a screen in sight.Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, cruising on Weiss
Lake, or savoring Southern cooking, Cherokee County, Alabama is the kind of place where memories are made one
beautiful moment at a time.
Here’s our guide to the best things to do in Cherokee County, including stunning natural wonders, locally loved restaurants,
and family-friendly attractions that will make you want to return again and again.
Nature: Breathtaking Views & Outdoor Adventures
Cherokee County is home to some of the most striking natural landscapes in Alabama. With Lookout Mountain to the north
and Weiss Lake to the south, there is truly endless outdoor adventures are your fingertips!
Little River Canyon National Preserve
If you’re looking for jaw-dropping views and untouched wilderness, this is it. Little River Canyon is known as the “Grand
Canyon of the East,” and it lives up to the name. With its sandstone cliffs, forested trails, and one of the deepest canyons east
of the Mississippi, it’s a must-visit for hikers, nature photographers, and anyone who loves a scenic drive.
• Don’t miss: Little River Falls (especially after a good rain), Eberhart Point Overlook, and the canyon rim drive
• Great for: Picnics, hiking, birdwatching, and just soaking in the views
Just a short drive away is Cherokee Rock Village, a 200-acre park filled with towering rock formations, hiking trails, and
sweeping views that stretch across Alabama and into Georgia. Known to locals as “Sand Rock,” this is a favorite spot for
climbers, photographers, and families looking for a scenic picnic.
• Don’t miss: Sunset from the overlook and exploring the rock maze trails
• Great for: Rock climbing, hiking, camping, and stargazing
Local Flavor Done Right
You can tell a lot about a place by how it feeds you and Cherokee County feeds you really well. These local spots are where
you’ll find delicious meals, welcoming faces, and that unmistakable flavor of the South.
Located right on the lake, Decks and Docks serves up fresh seafood, burgers, and Southern classics with a view you won’t
want to leave. Sit outside on the deck and watch boats cruise by while you enjoy fried catfish, shrimp baskets, or a perfectly
grilled burger.
• What to order: Catfish platter or shrimp tacos with a side of hush puppies
• Vibe: Casual, lakeside, family-friendly
Easy Street is a bit more upscale but still totally approachable. It’s where locals go for date nights or celebrations, with a
menu that balances Southern comfort food and creative chef specials.
• What to order: Fried green tomatoes, pasta primavera, and the steak special
• Vibe: Cozy, charming, perfect for a nice night out
Looking for a laid-back spot with pub food and local beer? FC Weiss Pub is it. Located in Centre, it’s the go-to place for
burgers, wings, and live music. With both indoor and outdoor seating, it’s great for meeting friends or relaxing after a day on
the lake.
• What to order: Fried pickles, pub burger, and an Alabama craft beer
• Vibe: Casual, fun, with a sports bar twist
A hidden gem that serves up some of the best biscuits in North Alabama. Whether you stop in for breakfast or lunch, Coosa
Corner feels like a slice of home. This family-owned spot is known for big portions, friendly faces, and Southern staples
done right.
• What to order: Bacon, egg & cheese biscuit + homemade jelly
• Vibe: Local, no-frills, and full of flavor
Family Fun: Something for Everyone
Whether you’re traveling with kids, planning a multigenerational trip, or just looking for things that will make you smile,
Cherokee County has some unforgettable experiences for families of all sizes.
This working glass studio near Little River Canyon offers a hands-on experience like no other. Visitors can blow their own glass ornament, tour the studio, or shop handcrafted pieces in the gallery. It’s interactive, creative, and educational all wrapped in one.
• What we loved: Watching molten glass transform into art, then trying it ourselves
• Great for: All ages, especially artistic or curious kids (and adults!)
Cherokee County Historical Museum
Located in the heart of Centre, this small but mighty museum is packed with local artifacts, photographs, and stories that
showcase the history of Cherokee County. It’s a great way to connect with the past and learn more about the people who
shaped the region.
• Highlights: Vintage farm equipment, Native American artifacts, and Civil War relics
• Great for: History lovers, homeschool families, and curious kids
Chesnut Bay Resort on Weiss Lake
More than just a place to stay, Chesnut Bay Resort is a full-fledged family vacation experience. From colorful tiny homes and lakefront villas to on-site golf carts and playgrounds, it’s a mini village that sits right on the edge of Weiss Lake.
• Don’t miss: The pool, Pirates Bay Water Park (right next door), and easy access to the lake
• Great for: Family reunions, weekend getaways, or even day-use fun
What’s a lake trip without some water adventure? Weiss Lake Watersports offers pontoon boats, jet skis, kayaks, and more.
Spend the afternoon cruising the 30,000-acre lake, swimming in quiet coves, or casting a line to catch crappie — one of the
lake’s claims to fame.
• Pro tip: Book ahead in summer and pack a cooler for your boat ride
• Great for: Families with kids, fishing fanatics, or those just looking to relax
Why Cherokee County Should Be on Your Map
At Backroads and Burgers, we love uncovering the kinds of places that feel like home even if it’s your first time visiting.
Cherokee County has that vibe. It’s a place where the pace slows down, the views get better around every bend, and the food
tastes like it was made just for you.
Whether you’re kayaking through calm waters, climbing boulders at sunset, blowing glass by firelight, or savoring a biscuit
that tastes like your grandma made it, Cherokee, Alabama is real, rooted, and ready to welcome you.
So pack your bags, bring your appetite, and don’t forget your sense of wonder. Cherokee County is calling.
The post Things to Do in Cherokee County, Alabama: Nature, Food, and Family Fun appeared first on Backroads and Burgers.