Guide to Chelsea, AL: outdoor adventures, local bites and a winery
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Time to take a trip to our neighbors to the south of Birmingham. Let’s explore Chelsea, Alabama along with all it has to offer including things to do, see and eat.
A lil bit about Chelsea, AL
Chelsea is a city in Shelby County and isn’t too far of a drive from downtown Birmingham. It’s about a 30-minute drive down Highway 280 and past Lake Purdy. Despite its distance, did you know that Chelsea is technically part of the Birmingham metropolitan area.
The city of Chelsea can be really scenic especially during the fall time. It’s located between Birmingham and the Talledega National Forest so you can bet the foliage will be stunning.
- Population: 14,126 (according to 2019 census data)
- Motto: “It’s all about family.”
Things to do
Take a stroll through Oak Mountain State Park
Everyone could use a breath of fresh air to unwind. With over 9,900 acres, Oak Mountain has become the state’s largest state park with a wide array of activities. Just one look at the park’s stunning landscape and you’ll find your new outdoor escape a short drive from the city.
The park has an activity for everyone. Biking? There are some rad mountain biking trails just for you. Want to play a game of basketball? They have courts for your games. From lakes for fishing to a manmade beach and swimming area, they can keep the whole family busy.
Let’s not forget Peavine Falls. It’s a 65-tall waterfall with several trails that lead to it so make sure to plan your route in advance.
If you’re in the mood for a hike, I’d 10/10 recommend making the trip up to King’s Chair. If it’s great views that you’re looking for, then that’s exactly what you’ll get at King’s Chair. Just take a look for yourself.
Let loose at Cat-n-Bird Winery
Turns out you don’t have to travel to Napa Valley for a top-notch wine. At Cat-n-Bird, every bottle is handmade and filled with wines made from imported grapes and juices. From the fermentation to the bottling and corking, Cat-n-Bird does it all on site of their boutique winery in Chelsea.
Need weekend plans? You’re just in luck. Cat-n-bird Winery is open to the public on Saturdays from 12PM-6PM. Take a tour of their process and enjoy a glass (or two!) while you’re there.
Grab a bite
Station 31 Kitchen
Since May 2019, Station 31 Kitchen has been serving up American classics in Chelsea. According to 280Living, owner Jeff Webster always knew that he wanted to be in the restaurant business at an early age. Station 31 Kitchen is his second restaurant and the menu is a hit.
The restaurant tries to change the menu up at least once a year so customers have some fresh choices to choose from. You can choose from items like burgers, wings, chicken and waffles and more.
Joseph’s Table
You may be familiar with Joseph’s Table Mediterranean Bistro and Bar. It was originally the Pita Hut then reopened by Lebanon native Joseph Matta as Joseph’s Table. The restaurant has a community and family atmosphere with a menu that focuses on fresh ingredients.
According to Matta, Joseph’s Table’s food is farm to table with locally sourced meats. He even goes to the farmers market to grab fresh produce. The menu features items like roasted lamb, chicken rolls, steak, burgers, seafood, vegetarian options and more.
Cajun Boys & Our Poboys
From Louisiana to Alabama, the Donovan Family brings a taste of New Orleans to Birmingham. Everything from the decor to the menu is inspired by The Big Easy. As soon as you walk in, you’ll notice the purple, gold and green decorations and the smell of beignets.
The menu features classic Cajun cuisines like red beans and rice, oysters, crawfish, shrimp and of course, poboys.
What are some of your fave spots in Chelsea? Let us know on social @bhamnow + @now_bham on Twitter.
