Decatur (AL)

Decatur, AL – Known as "The River City," Decatur sits along the banks of the Tennessee River, blending Southern charm with a rich history. From scenic waterfront views to vibrant local festivals, this welcoming city offers a perfect mix of outdoor adventure, culture, and small-town hospitality. Whether you're exploring historic districts, enjoying fresh local cuisine, or relaxing by the water, Decatur has something for everyone.

• Population: ~58,000
• Weather: Mild winters (30-50°F), warm summers (70-90°F), with occasional humidity and rain.
• Places To Visit: Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge, Point Mallard Park, Cook Museum of Natural Science, Old State Bank, Delano Park.
• Top Activities: Kayaking on the Tennessee River, exploring historic sites, attending the Alabama Jubilee Hot Air Balloon Festival, hiking scenic trails, enjoying live music and local art.
• Famous Food: BBQ from Big Bob Gibson’s, fried catfish, Southern-style biscuits, sweet tea, and homemade pecan pie.

Decatur, AL, is a growing city with a strong economy supported by industries like manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, and technology. Below are some of the top jobs in Decatur.

Decatur, Alabama, has plenty of awesome spots for students to unwind, relax, and have fun between classes or after exams. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, tasty eats, or chill hangouts, you're sure to find your favorite spot here.

Point Mallard Park – This popular destination offers a relaxing outdoor atmosphere to chill with friends. Enjoy swimming pools, trails, picnic areas, and even an ice rink. It's the perfect spot for students looking to unwind and have some fun outdoors!

Delano Park – One of Decatur’s oldest parks, Delano Park features beautiful gardens, wide-open lawns, and a cool splash pad. Pack a picnic or play some frisbee to relieve the stress of studying.

Alabama Jubilee Hot Air Balloon Classic – If you're around Decatur during Memorial Day weekend, don't miss this exciting event. It's an amazing opportunity to relax on a blanket with friends, watch colorful balloons fill the sky, and enjoy delicious local street food.

Coffee Shops Downtown – Decatur’s historic downtown district is home to several cozy coffee shops, including Java Jaay Cafe and High Point Market. Grab a delicious latte, chill out with your classmates, or catch up on some reading in a relaxed environment.

Princess Theatre – Enjoy a laid-back evening watching live music, comedy, movies, and plays at this historic downtown theater. Great atmosphere and affordable tickets make it a favorite hangout for students.

Tennessee River Area – Walking along the Tennessee River, hanging out at Rhodes Ferry Park, or just enjoying gorgeous sunset views over the river are ideal ways to relax after a busy week. It’s also the perfect spot for snapping some beautiful photos with your friends.

Decatur, Alabama, is home to several respected public and private colleges and universities that offer excellent academic programs in fields such as healthcare, business, engineering, and the arts.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Decatur

Calhoun Community College – The largest community college in Alabama, offering a wide range of associate degree and certificate programs in nursing, technology, and business.

Athens State University – While based in Athens, this public university serves Decatur students with bachelor’s and graduate degree programs in business, education, and arts and sciences.

Drake State Community & Technical College – A public institution offering workforce training and technical degree programs in healthcare, engineering, and business-related fields.

Northwest-Shoals Community College – Serving students from Decatur, this institution offers associate degrees, workforce training, and technical programs in various industries.

Wallace State Community College – Located near Decatur, this highly regarded college offers robust academic and technical programs in healthcare, allied health, and business.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Decatur

Heritage Christian University – A private Christian institution offering degrees in biblical studies, ministry, and theology.

Oakwood University – A historically Black Seventh-day Adventist university known for its strong academic programs in business, healthcare, and social sciences.

Huntsville Bible College – A faith-based institution offering degrees in theology, Christian education, and ministry leadership.

Southeastern Institute of Technology – A private technical college providing education in engineering, IT, and professional certification courses.

Faulkner University (Huntsville Campus) – A private Christian university offering degree programs in business, criminal justice, and counseling for students in the Decatur area.

Decatur, AL, is home to several excellent high schools that provide students with strong academic programs and extracurricular opportunities to prepare them for college and careers.

Top Public High Schools In Decatur, AL

• Decatur High School – A well-rounded school offering a variety of advanced placement courses and strong athletic programs.
• Austin High School – Known for its rigorous academics and technical career programs.
• Hartselle High School – Provides top-quality education with impressive college readiness programs.
• Priceville High School – Offers strong academic performance and a supportive learning environment.
• West Morgan High School – Focuses on both academic achievement and extracurricular success.

Top Private High Schools In Decatur, AL

• Decatur Heritage Christian Academy – A highly ranked private school with a commitment to faith-based education.
• Saint Ann Catholic School – Offers a well-rounded curriculum with small class sizes for personalized learning.
• Faith Christian Academy – Provides strong academic and spiritual development opportunities.
• Cornerstone Christian School – Focuses on both strong academics and character development.
• Oak Park Christian School – Supports students with individualized attention and faith-based instruction.

Decatur, Alabama, does not have major professional sports teams like some larger cities, but residents passionately support various sports teams from nearby cities and states.

🏀 Basketball – Alabama Crimson Tide & Auburn Tigers (NCAA)

• Alabama Crimson Tide – The University of Alabama’s basketball team has grown into a strong program, frequently making appearances in the NCAA tournament. They have developed top NBA prospects such as Brandon Miller and Collin Sexton.
• Auburn Tigers – Auburn University’s basketball team has also become a national contender, reaching the Final Four in 2019. Notable players include Charles Barkley and Jabari Smith Jr..

🏈 Football – Alabama Crimson Tide & Auburn Tigers (NCAA)

• Alabama Crimson Tide – One of the most dominant college football programs ever, Alabama has won multiple national championships, especially under coach Nick Saban. Legendary players include Derrick Henry, Tua Tagovailoa, and Bryce Young.
• Auburn Tigers – Auburn has a strong football tradition as well, winning national titles and producing elite talents like Cam Newton and Bo Jackson.

⚾ Baseball – Huntsville Trash Pandas (MiLB)

• Rocket City Trash Pandas – Located in nearby Madison, this Minor League Baseball team serves as the Double-A affiliate of the Los Angeles Angels. They provide exciting games for local baseball fans.

🏒 Hockey – Huntsville Havoc (SPHL)

• Huntsville Havoc – Competing in the Southern Professional Hockey League, the Havoc have won multiple SPHL championships and have a dedicated fan following in North Alabama.

⚽ Soccer – Huntsville City FC (MLS Next Pro)

• Huntsville City FC – As an affiliate of Major League Soccer’s Nashville SC, this club plays in the MLS Next Pro league and promotes the growth of soccer in Alabama.

While Decatur does not have its own professional teams, residents are deeply connected to collegiate sports and minor league teams throughout North Alabama.

Decatur, Alabama, is a charming city with a rich history, beautiful riverfront views, and plenty of interesting facts that make it unique. Whether you're a visitor or a local, here are some fun facts about Decatur:

1. River City – Decatur is known as the "River City" because it's located along the Tennessee River, which has played a huge role in its development.
2. Historic Railroad Hub – It was once a major railroad crossroads, making it a key player in Alabama’s transportation history.
3. Home of the Hot Air Balloon Festival – Decatur hosts the Alabama Jubilee Hot-Air Balloon Classic, one of the largest balloon festivals in the Southeast.
4. Wheeler Wildlife Refuge – The Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge is a 35,000-acre sanctuary for migratory birds and outdoor enthusiasts.
5. Civil War History – Decatur was the site of the Battle of Decatur during the Civil War, a key fight that helped shape the region.
6. Hometown of a NASA Astronaut – Astronaut Dr. Jan Davis, who flew on three space shuttle missions, was born in Decatur.
7. Cook's Natural Science Museum – The city has a unique attraction, the Cook Museum of Natural Science, featuring interactive nature exhibits.
8. Growing Film Industry – Decatur has become a popular location for filming movies, including the movie Wheeler, which was shot in the city.
9. Catfish Capital – The Riverfront Fish Market and local catfish farms make Decatur a great destination for seafood lovers.
10. Southern Hospitality – Decatur is known for its friendly residents and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes everyone feel at home.