Cultural Hubs:

Austin, TX  |  Ann Arbor, MI  |  Flagstaff, AZ  |  Knoxville, TN 

 Provo-Orem, UT  |  Tuscaloosa, AL 

Tuscaloosa, Alabama:

Population: 79,428

Median Home Price: $156,250

Your Hangout: 4th & 23rd bar

The Scene: Some 22,000 students from the University of Alabama flood the city during the school year, but it's the small-town charm you feel most on the streets. Paddle the Sipsey River's blackwater marshes for a taste of the area's homegrown outdoor vibe.

OPTIONS: Tuscaloosa is bass fishing territory. For a fishing outing head to the Sipsey or Lake Lurleen right outside of town. Biker's head up Oak Mountain for 17 miles (27 kilometers) of trails.

OUTFITTER: Once an ancient settlement of the Mississippian people, Moundville Archeological Park (+1 205 371 2234) maintains the huge mounds that were one the Indian nobility's palaces. Hike the area with a park guide for a glimpse of an ancient kingdom.

GOOD EATS: On the southside of town lies a shack. Inside you'll find a roasting pit, a wood fire and a crowd of southerners baying for Dreamland Barbecue's (+1 205 758 8135) one entrée: the pit barbecued ribs, an Alabama must.

30 More Places to Live and Play:

Boise or Bust!

Outdoor Meccas  |  Adventure Cities  |  Small Towns

Cultural Hubs  |  Beach Towns  

Adventure's September 2006 issue features 31 amazing adventure towns; chaos at the top of Mount Everest; an inside look at surfing California's Lost Coast; 11 fall weekend getaways near you; the best high-tech footwear, world class adventure travel; hiking the Alps, and more!