Jasper combines insights into the city’s history with art, recurring events and walks. The Jasper Welcome Center & Museum introduces visitors to the people, places and events that have shaped Jasper. It also provides maps, local guides and recommendations for planning your visit.
Cultural History and Art
The Carl Elliott House Museum is a historic house museum that presents the life of Congressman Carl A. Elliott Sr. and the period in which he lived. Tours are available by appointment only; arrange an appointment before your visit.
The Bankhead House and Heritage Center was built in 1925 as the family home of Alabama politician William B. Bankhead. The historical focus differs at each site: the Welcome Center introduces the people, places and events of the city; the Carl Elliott House Museum focuses on one person and their era; and the Bankhead House offers a specific connection to a building and a family.
The Mule Trail offers a self-guided walk connected to the region’s cultural heritage. The Sculpture Trail is an art-focused walk featuring imaginative works of art in the landscape. The Walker County Arts Alliance Art Gallery presents changing exhibitions by local and regional artists. This offers a choice of different ways to explore art and history: a walk focused on regional heritage, art in the landscape or exhibitions in a gallery.
Trolley on Main offers a different format: historical group tours of Jasper are available by reservation. This also makes for a practical difference from exploring the Mule Trail on your own: a reservation is required for the group tour.
Events Throughout the Year
Jasper’s Annual Christmas Parade takes place in downtown Jasper on the first Tuesday in December. The Hispanic Heritage Festival is also held annually in November in downtown Jasper. If either event is the reason for your trip, check the date for the specific event in your chosen year.
Walks and Park Amenities
Memorial Park offers a 1-mile walking path, a pond and outdoor pools. Penn Woods Walking Track is also 1 mile long, paved, and runs through the trees and around the park’s pond. Both are the same stated length but have different described features: at Penn Woods Walking Track, the paved path and its route through the trees are part of what helps you find your way.
North Jasper Park Walking Trail is 0.5 miles long—half the stated length of both Memorial Park and Penn Woods Walking Track. The trail can be used for hiking, trail running and walking. Amenities include benches, picnic tables and restrooms; the trail is wheelchair accessible.
Walker County Centennial Park in Jasper has a renovated soccer field, a walking path, a pavilion and swings. Gamble Park also has a walking path, and a stream runs through the center of the park. Gamble Park also has updated play equipment designed for children and families.
For the broader travel overview: Walker.
