The Best Things To Do In Mentone, Alabama

Fall is an ideal time for a getaway to the Alabama mountain town of Mentone, whether you want to escape for a day or the weekend. While Tennessee and North Carolina get lots of attention and visitors in the fall, they're far from the only Southern states that can provide an enchanting seasonal getaway. In Mentone, there's no shortage of small-town charm or breathtaking autumn leaves to be found. If you go, expect fewer crowds and a hint of that best-kept-secret magic, too. Less than a two-hour drive from Birmingham, Atlanta, and Chattanooga, Mentone, Alabama, is conveniently located. Drive through the fall leaf-covered trees on your way to Lookout Mountain, and visit the unexpectedly special little town marked by a stone welcome sign.

What To Do In Mentone

Fall scenery is the main attraction in Mentone, and DeSoto State Park is one of the best places to see it. Hints of color begin at the end of September and continue into November, with the peak historically hitting anywhere from the third week of October into the beginning of November. Take a stroll down the Talmadge Butler Boardwalk Trail, and you'll find yourself surrounded by leaves of every color. A short drive from the park's central area, just off the Lookout Mountain Parkway, you'll discover DeSoto Falls. You'll see beautiful fall scenes reflecting off the water below as you walk along a paved pathway to the 107-foot waterfall.

Located approximately 30 minutes from downtown Mentone, Little River Canyon National Preserve offers an 11-mile scenic drive with a series of overlooks for viewing fall foliage. Picnic tables along the route provide an excellent spot to enjoy a packed lunch. Visit the boardwalk near the State Route 35 bridge to lead you to Little River Falls. While you're in the area, make an extra stop at Grace's High Falls for more breathtaking views.

Fore more fall fun, visit family-owned Little River Orchard, where you can pick apples to munch on now or to take home and bake into pies and cobblers later. Established in 2016, the small-operation farm is open to visitors each fall for u-pick apples.

Where To Shop In Mentone

In addition to its natural parks, Mentone's main street has beautiful scenery and shopping. Find an eclectic gift at The Groovy Goat or The Gourdie Shop, where every gourd (the novelt items are hand-painted) has a unique personality and story. At sunset, you'll want to make plans to enjoy the view from Brow Park, located about a quarter-mile from the town center. It offers unobstructed views of the sun setting over the brow of Lookout Mountain.

Where To Eat In Mentone

For a hearty breakfast before setting out to the parks, stop in The Hatter Cafe. The quaint cafe serves classic morning meals like pancakes, French toast, grits, hashbrowns, and any of your favorite breakfast meats.

After a morning exploring the great outdoors, return to town for a midday lunch break at Mentone Market. In addition to pizza, sandwiches, and the like, The Market also offers Mentone memorabilia and a selection of grocery items.

A trip to Mentone wouldn't be complete without stopping at the Wildflower Cafe. The one-of-a-kind cafe offers a unique dining experience that you can only get in Mentone. If you'd like to visit during dinner, you'll want to make a reservation before going–and don't leave without trying the famous tomato pie.

Where To Stay In Mentone

Initially built in the 1920s, the Mentone Inn is located right in the middle of the action. Sit on the porch and take in the scene as you enjoy your morning coffee. You're just a few steps away when you're ready to visit shops and restaurants.

One of Mentone's newer stays, Andiamo Lodge offers a luxurious and customized stay that's a perfect cross between a charming bed and breakfast and resort with lots of amenities. Stay in one of six rooms (or rent out their multi-room cottage) and gain access to excellent on-site dining, as well as an array of activities and experiences that range from cooking classes to art lessons. The inn's owners can even set up activities like horseback riding and fly fishing with other area businesses.

If you prefer to stay in a more remote location, DeSoto State Park offers lodge rooms, cabins, cottages, chalets, and campsites. You can make reservations online at AlaPark.com. Private cabin rentals are also available on VRBO, but you'll want to book for the peak fall season as soon as possible because reservations will fill up quickly.