Name: 2026 Festival of the Cranes
Start: 2027-01-08
End: 2027-01-10

Cook Museum of Natural Science, located at 133 4th Ave NE in Decatur, Alabama, offers an engaging, hands-on look at the natural world. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits focused on science and nature, making the museum an educational destination for curious learners and families.

Designed to encourage discovery through participation, Cook Museum provides opportunities to learn about topics such as animals, ecosystems, geology, and other natural-science subjects. Its exhibits are especially suited to children, students, and adults who enjoy interactive educational experiences.

Whether you’re planning a family outing, a school visit, or a stop while exploring Decatur, Cook Museum of Natural Science offers an approachable way to connect with the world around us.

Cook Museum of Natural Science

Nature’s Table at the Cook Museum of Natural Science offers visitors a convenient dining option in the heart of downtown Decatur, Alabama. Located inside the Cook Museum at 133 4th Ave NE, it’s a practical stop before, after, or during a museum visit.

With its museum setting, Nature’s Table is suited to visitors exploring Cook Museum’s natural-science exhibits, as well as families, local guests, and groups looking for a casual place to eat. Its location makes it easy to include a meal or refreshment break in a day of discovery.

For the most current information about the menu, hours, and dietary options, guests should contact the museum or check its official website before visiting.

Nature's Table at Cook Museum of Natural Science

Located at 112 2nd Ave NE in downtown Decatur, the Princess Theatre is a historic performing arts venue that hosts live entertainment and cultural events. Its elegant theater setting offers visitors a memorable place to enjoy performances while experiencing one of the city’s notable landmarks.

With a varied event calendar, the Princess Theatre welcomes residents and visitors seeking music, stage productions, and other live shows. Check the current schedule for upcoming performances, ticket details, and event-specific information.

Princess Theatre 

Explore the Downtown Turtle Trail at 110 2nd Ave NE in Decatur, Alabama—a distinctive downtown attraction that adds a playful touch to your visit. Ideal for visitors exploring the city, the trail offers an easy way to experience Decatur’s downtown area while discovering its turtle-themed landmarks.

Whether you’re enjoying a casual walk, sightseeing, or looking for a memorable local activity, Downtown Turtle Trail provides a unique stop in the heart of Decatur. Its central location makes it convenient to include alongside other downtown attractions, shops, and dining destinations.

Downtown Turtle Trail

Decatur Public Library, located at 504 Cherry St NE in Decatur, Alabama, is a community resource offering access to books, digital materials, information services, and opportunities for learning and discovery. Visitors can explore the collection, use library resources, and connect with programs and services designed to support readers, students, families, and lifelong learners.

Whether you are a local resident seeking research assistance, a student looking for study resources, or a visitor interested in discovering the community, the library provides a welcoming place to read, learn, and engage. Check with the library directly for current hours, available services, and upcoming events.

Decatur Public Library

Don’s Mercantile, located at 119 2nd Ave NE in downtown Decatur, Alabama, offers a local shopping experience in the heart of the city. Visitors can stop by to explore the store’s selection of merchandise and enjoy the character of Decatur’s historic downtown area.

Whether you’re browsing for something distinctive or looking for a convenient downtown stop, Don’s Mercantile provides an inviting destination for shoppers and visitors exploring Decatur.

Don's Mercantile

Moe’s Original BBQ in Decatur serves Southern-style barbecue in a relaxed, welcoming setting. Located at 202 Moulton St E, the restaurant offers a convenient spot to enjoy barbecue favorites and classic comfort food in the heart of town.

Whether you’re visiting Decatur or looking for a casual local meal, Moe’s Original BBQ is a straightforward choice for guests seeking a Southern barbecue experience. Check with the restaurant directly for current menu options, hours, and availability.

Moe's Original BBQ

Mellow Mushroom Decatur brings its distinctive pizza experience to downtown Decatur at 202 Moulton St E. Guests can enjoy handcrafted pizzas alongside a selection of other menu options in a relaxed, casual setting. Known for its colorful, art-inspired atmosphere, Mellow Mushroom offers an inviting place to meet friends, share a meal, and enjoy a laid-back dining experience.

Whether you’re visiting Decatur or looking for a casual local spot, it’s a convenient choice for pizza lovers and groups seeking an easygoing meal. Check with the restaurant directly for current menu offerings, dietary options, hours, and availability.

Mellow Mushroom Decatur

Josie’s, located at 109 2nd Ave NE in downtown Decatur, offers visitors a convenient local stop in the heart of the city. Whether you’re exploring Decatur or spending time nearby, its central location makes it easy to include in your plans.

For the most accurate information about Josie’s menu, services, hours, and available amenities, visitors should check the business’s current listings or contact the location directly.

Josie's

Goody 2 Shoes is located at 221 Moulton St E in downtown Decatur, Alabama. While additional details about its products, services, and customer offerings are not available here, its central location makes it a convenient stop while exploring the area. Visit Goody 2 Shoes directly or check current business information before planning your visit.

Goody 2 Shoes

Where Core Memories are Made in Decatur-Morgan County. Whether indoors or outdoors, we offer visitors unique opportunities for exploration of the “great unknown,” and organizers peace of mind when planning an event. Easy accessibility, world-class facilities and our top notch hospitality make Decatur-Morgan County the ideal location to enhance your next tournament. Give us a call today to help create your next adventure!

Decatur Morgan County Tourism

Celebrate one of North Alabama’s most spectacular natural events at the **Festival of the Cranes** at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge in Decatur, Alabama. Each winter, thousands of Sandhill Cranes—and a small number of endangered Whooping Cranes—make Wheeler their seasonal home, creating an unforgettable wildlife experience.

This family-friendly festival celebrates the incredible migration with **guided birding walks, wildlife presentations, educational programs, photography opportunities, children’s activities, and special events** throughout the weekend. Visitors can explore the refuge, take in views from the observation building, and experience the beauty of thousands of cranes gathering across the wetlands.

Whether you’re an avid birder, nature lover, photographer, or simply looking for a unique winter adventure, the Festival of the Cranes offers an up-close look at one of Decatur’s most treasured natural wonders.

2026 Festival of the Cranes

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