There are several exciting things to do in Chelsea Alabama. Immerse in Southern charm, relish serene parks, explore historic sites.
Chelsea, Alabama is a small town with a big heart. It’s the perfect place for active seniors to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Oak Mountain State Park is just 20 minutes away.
Hike or bike the trails, swim or fish the lakes, camp or play golf surrounded by lush forests.
Chelsea, Alabama, offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, wineries, and outdoor adventures, making it an ideal destination for active seniors seeking a vibrant and rejuvenating vacation.
Things to Do in Chelsea Alabama
1. Oak Mountain State Park: Activities Galore!
Oak Mountain State Park is Alabama’s largest state park, with over 11,000 acres of forests, lakes, and trails to explore. It is conveniently located between Chelsea and Birmingham.
Go for a hike on one of the park’s many trails, including the challenging Red Trail, which is considered one of the best mountain biking trails in the state.
From easy strolls to challenging hikes, the park caters to every skill level.
Swim in one of the park’s two lakes, or rent a boat and go fishing. The serene lakes invite you to cast your line and relish moments of tranquil reflection.
Take a ride on the Flipside Watersports cable skiing course or the inflatable aqua park obstacle course.
Feel the adrenaline rush as you zip line through the treetops, or test your courage by scaling the heights of the treetop course.
The park is open year-round and admission is free. There are a variety of camping and lodging options available, so you can stay and enjoy the park for as long as you like.
Oak Mountain State Park isn’t just about heart-pounding activities. It’s a place to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. Capture postcard-worthy views from panoramic overlooks, capturing the essence of the surrounding landscape.
2. King’s Chair Overlook: Moderate to Hard
King’s Chair Overlook via White and Blue Trail Loop, a 6.3 mile hike is fairly challenging but is also as rewarding as it is invigorating. It is likely to take you around 3 hours to complete.
Your adventure begins at the North Trailhead, tracing an easy start along the White Trail. The ascent gets your heart pumping as you reach the ridge.
Descend through the White/Blue connector, forging ahead along the Blue Trail. The climax of your expedition unfolds at King’s Chair lookout, where breathtaking vistas unfurl, treating you to captivating views of Childersburg.
Prepare for a trek that blends exertion and elegance, guiding you through a landscape that beckons to be explored.
3. Blue Trail (South Rim Trail): An Epic Hike
The Blue Trail (South Rim Trail) at Oak Mountain State Park is an immersive journey through diverse terrain that’s bound to leave you in awe.
Spanning over 14 miles, this out and back trail is no walk in the park. Expect to complete it in around 6 hours or more. It’s a challenge that rewards hikers with breathtaking vistas and moments of serenity.
As you tread the path, you’ll find yourself amid a symphony of nature, making it an ideal escape for birding, hiking, and even running.
From Peavine Falls to Kings Chair, the trail unveils wonders that make the effort worthwhile. The initial uphill push is balanced by the rewarding views from atop.
As seasons shift, so does the trail’s charm, making it a year-round gem. So, lace up your boots, heed the call of the trail, and uncover the marvels that await on the Blue Trail.
4. The Oaks Golf Course: Amidst Pristine Nature
The Oaks Golf Course, located in Oak Mountain State Park near Chelsea, offers a unique golfing experience. The course is always kept nice, and the greens are in excellent condition.
The course is in the middle of a state park, making it pretty scenic. The staff is welcoming, and the course architect, Greg Martin, has done an excellent job of placing golfers in the most pristine locations.
The Oaks Golf Course is a public course that is perfect for the beginner, scratch golfer, outing participant, or anyone who appreciates an exciting, enjoyable round.
The Oaks Golf Course is a must-visit for golfers of all skill levels.
5. Oak Mountain State Park Camping: A Serene Experience
Experience the fun of camping in Oak Mountain State Park. The campground offers a variety of options, including full-hookup sites, primitive tents and picnic tables and fire rings.
The Country Store keeps in stock those items that you forgot as well as a line of camper supplies (sewer hoses, toilet chemicals, electrical adapters, etc.)
They also carry snack items as well as gifts and T-shirts. Firewood is available for purchase at the Campground Store.
With its serene setting and quality service, Oak Mountain State Park Camping provides the perfect escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
6. Fishing in Oak Mountain State Park: A Relaxing Time
Oak Mountain State Park offers a serene escape for fishing enthusiasts. The park has seven lakes stocked with a variety of fish, including bass, catfish, and bream. The park also offers fishing piers and boat rentals.
The park also has a beach area for swimming and a pet-friendly area for your furry friends.
With its beautiful scenery and quality service, Oak Mountain State Park is the perfect destination for a relaxing fishing getaway.
Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, you’ll find everything you need to enjoy a day on the water in this picturesque park.
7. Cat & Bird Winery: A Boutique Micro-Winery
Cat & Bird Winery is a boutique micro-winery that specializes in non-standard wines. Their hand-made wines are made from grapes and juice imported from vineyards all over the world.
Cat & Bird Winery offers a unique experience of drinking wine with farm animals while surrounded by beautiful scenery. The winery has a bar and offers live music on some occasions. The menu range is diverse, and the food quality is excellent.
The seating at Cat & Bird Winery is comfortable, and the ambiance is cozy and inviting. The quality of service is top-notch, and the staff is knowledgeable about the wines.
It is a perfect place to spend a relaxing day with friends and family while enjoying excellent wine and food.
Where to Stay in Chelsea Alabama
The nice hotels are all in Birmingham. Moreover, to get the maximum out of your vacation, I would recommend staying in a vacation rental, somewhere between Chelsea and Birmingham, close to Oak Mountain State Park.
Here are 2 worth taking a look at:
Meadowbrook Condo: Quiet Oasis
King Bed Condo is located in a quiet and cozy neighborhood, conveniently located near Oak Mountain State Park in Meadowbrook, Alabama. In 20 minutes you can be in Chelsea or Birmingham.
The Condo offers a serene escape from stressful life with all the comforts of home. It is perfect for senior couples seeking a tranquil getaway and yet be close to nature.
The condo has been renovated and comes with modern amenities and a fully equipped kitchen that includes a Keurig coffee maker, full-size refrigerator, and microwave.
With spacious seating and two large TVs, it’s a perfect blend of relaxation and entertainment. Sit on the porch and soak in the wooded surroundings or venture out to explore the community amenities.
Indulge in comfort and rejuvenation while exploring the nearby Oak Mountain State Park and the charming attractions of Chelsea, making your vacation memorable.
Meadowbrook Townhouse: Family Friendly
This charming townhouse in the Meadowbrook neighborhood, is the perfect haven for families and couples.
The townhouse has two bedrooms, each with a king-sized bed and a private bathroom. There’s also a large living room with a sofa bed, perfect for additional guests.
A fully renovated space with modern amenities, including 3 flat-screen TVs and a full kitchen, it has plenty of space for relaxation and exploring Oak Mountain State Park.
Enjoy mountain views from your private balcony and unwind in a shared pool and fitness center. Indulge in comfort while staying just 5 minutes from Grandview Medical and 20 minutes from Oak Mountain State Park.
With nearby attractions and a tranquil atmosphere, this is your idyllic retreat in Meadowbrook.
Where to Eat in Chelsea Alabama
Joseph’s Table: Mediterranean Delights
Joseph’s Table, a Mediterranean restaurant, is located in a charming old building that has been beautifully restored.
The menu features a wide variety of traditional Mediterranean dishes, all made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
The food at Joseph’s Table is simply delicious. The hummus is creamy and flavorful, the baba ghanoush is smoky and eggplanty, and the lamb kebabs are perfectly cooked.
I also recommend the moussaka, which is a traditional Greek dish made with eggplant, ground lamb, and béchamel sauce.
Delight in Mediterranean and Greek delights that stand out at. From creamy stuffed chicken rolls to flavorful salmon, each bite transports you to the heart of the Mediterranean.
The restaurant has a warm and inviting atmosphere. The dining room is spacious and well-lit, with a cozy fireplace in the corner.
The staff is friendly and attentive, and they are always happy to make recommendations.
Pinto Thai: Authentic Thai Cuisine
Pinto Thai is a small, family-owned restaurant in Chelsea that serves authentic Thai cuisine.
The menu features a wide variety of dishes, from classic favorites like Pad Thai and Pad See Ew to more unique options like Larb and Tom Yum Goong.
The food at Pinto Thai is made with fresh, high-quality ingredients and cooked to perfection. The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable. The service is friendly and attentive.
The restaurant is located in a quiet neighborhood, and the atmosphere is casual and relaxed. There is limited seating, so it is best to make a reservation if you are planning to go during peak hours.
DISCLAIMER: The site is not an affiliate of TRIPADVISOR or any other properties mentioned in this post. However, I do recommend using them to get more information.
