How to Have an Unforgettable Evening in Downtown Gadsden AL
When Kay Moore, Director of Downtown Gadsden Inc., invited me to Sunset Sips, I was intrigued and excited to head downtown Gadsden AL.
An October event where you can stroll across Memorial Bridge, wine glass in hand, and watch the sunset over the Coosa River? Sign me up!
This exclusive event sounded like something different, and I couldn’t wait to experience it firsthand.
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What is Sunset Sips?
For those who haven’t heard of Sunset Sips, it’s an annual event where ticket holders get the rare opportunity to walk out onto Memorial Bridge.
Now, this isn’t just any stroll—the bridge is closed off for this special night, transforming it into a scenic, elevated tasting room!
Guests enjoy selections of local wines and beers, nibble on hors d’oeuvres, and soak up the sunset views—all while supporting a good cause, as proceeds go to support the upkeep of downtown Gadsden.
Why Sunset Sips is a Night to Remember
I’ll be honest—I’d never been to an event like this before, and I wasn’t sure what to expect.
But by the end of the night, I was completely won over. Here’s what made Sunset Sips such a memorable evening:
Unbeatable Views
Standing on Memorial Bridge as the sun sank into the horizon was simply breathtaking. You just can’t get that view from any other spot in Gadsden!
The colors of the sunset reflected off the water below, painting the scene in pinks, oranges, and purples. It felt magical to witness it all from such a unique, elevated perspective.
Delicious Sips and Bites
There’s a wine for every palate: whites, reds, and everything in between. Plus, there’s a great selection of local brews.
Pair those with an array of tasty hors d’oeuvres, and you have the perfect blend of flavors to complement a beautiful evening.
Chatting with other guests, wine glass in hand, and sampling the bites made it feel like a mini festival right on the bridge.
The Historic Charm
Memorial Bridge holds so much history, and there was something special about experiencing it in this way. Walking along this landmark, surrounded by locals who appreciate its history, brought a sense of community and pride.
It’s incredible to see how events like this help preserve the charm of downtown Gadsden for future generations.
After the event, we decided to keep the evening going and stopped by Clover, a local favorite in downtown Gadsden.
The atmosphere there was the perfect follow-up to the bridge event—cozy, welcoming, and full of friendly faces. With a delicious dinner to wrap up the night, it was the ideal way to end such a memorable evening.
Why You Should Go Next Year
If you’re local (or even if you’re not!), Sunset Sips on Memorial Bridge is worth marking your calendar for. The combination of sunset views, local flavors, and community spirit is hard to beat, and you’ll be supporting a great cause for downtown Gadsden.
Big thanks to Kay Moore and Downtown Gadsden Inc. for hosting such a beautiful event that showcases the charm of this town. I’m already looking forward to next October!
Other Things to Do in Gadsden, AL
Gadsden, Alabama has a surprising variety of things to do. You can enjoy everything from beautiful outdoor adventures to charming downtown experiences. Here are some top spots to check out when you’re in town:
Noccalula Falls Park
One of Gadsden’s most iconic attractions, Noccalula Falls is a stunning 90-foot waterfall with plenty to see and do.
The park offers walking trails, a botanical garden, a petting zoo, miniature train rides, and a gorge trail that lets you explore the area behind the falls. It’s perfect for both nature lovers and families!
Riverwalk Park at Coosa Landing
This scenic boardwalk stretches along the Coosa River and is a great place for a peaceful walk, jog, or even a picnic by the water.
It offers lovely views of the river, and you might spot some local wildlife, like ducks and herons.
Imagination Place Children’s Museum
Located inside the Mary G. Hardin Center for Cultural Arts, this museum is a must for families with young children.
Kids can enjoy interactive exhibits, like exploring a miniature town, playing dress-up, and even doing some science experiments!
Downtown Gadsden Shopping and Dining
Gadsden’s downtown has a wonderful selection of boutiques, antique shops, and cafes. Whether you’re looking for unique local goods, cozy coffee spots, or a memorable meal, downtown Gadsden is full of charm. Restaurants like The Rail Public House and Clover are local favorites for a tasty bite.
Gadsden Museum of Art
For art lovers, the Gadsden Museum of Art is a small but inspiring museum with rotating exhibitions showcasing local, regional, and national artists. It’s a great spot to experience the local art scene and support community artists.
The Venue at Coosa Landing
If you’re visiting during a concert or event, the Venue at Coosa Landing is a fantastic spot for entertainment. It hosts a variety of events throughout the year and is beautifully situated along the river.
James D. Martin Wildlife Park
Nature enthusiasts will love this wildlife park, which features trails, boardwalks, and an observation deck to view local birds and animals. It’s ideal for a tranquil day of birdwatching, photography, or simply enjoying the outdoors.
Back Forty Beer Company
Alabama’s craft beer scene has been growing, and Back Forty Beer Company in Gadsden is a fantastic place to enjoy locally brewed beer.
With a welcoming taproom, fun events, and a nice outdoor space, it’s the perfect spot to relax and try their popular brews.
The Pitman Theatre
A historic theater that first opened in the 1940s, the Pitman Theatre occasionally hosts live music, film screenings, and community events.
The theater has been beautifully preserved, and even if you can’t catch a show, it’s worth a visit to appreciate the architecture and history.
Antique Alley and Gadsden Flea Market
If you love treasure hunting, check out the flea markets and antique shops in and around Gadsden. From vintage finds to handmade crafts, these markets offer plenty of unique items to browse and purchase.
Gadsden offers something for everyone, so don’t overlook this charming town if you’re visiting Alabama.
