New book highlights the appeal of Tuscaloosa

By Jolencia Jones, WVUA 23 digital reporter

Becky Beall is a travel writer and native Alabaman who recently wrote the book 100 Things to Do in Tuscaloosa Before You Die.

The book offers a variety of exciting summer activities for different interests. Those who love water sports can gear up for fun on the water at Tuscaloosa Paddleboard Rentals or watch waterski competitions at Lymanland. Adventure seekers can get dirty at Tuscaloosa Mud Park. Those looking to relax can unwind at Venue Tuscaloosa or enjoy nature at Lake Lurleen State Park. Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy Lake Tuscaloosa and fitness fans can stay fit at Faucett Brothers Activity Center.

Beall said she was inspired to write her book by a deep connection to the state of Alabama and the University of Alabama, but she wanted to highlight Tuscaloosa not just as a football destination, but also its museums, art galleries, outdoor activities and restaurants.

“When it comes to travel, I think we’re failing to explain to people why they might come to Tuscaloosa for vacation,” Beall said. “I think we’re missing all that because everyone has this preconceived notion that it’s just a college town with a great football team, and they don’t see the value of Tuscaloosa.”

Beall said her favorite part of the writing process was the extensive research.

“I absolutely loved getting to know people, and I didn’t get to meet everyone I wrote about. Some were just well-known people, but that was my favorite part, just learning little tidbits of information that I didn’t know,” Beall said.

The road to creating this guidebook wasn’t easy. During the process, Beall recounted how she was involved in a car accident that delayed the project.

“It kind of set me back. It was pretty significant and I couldn’t do a lot of research or sit at the computer and type for very long. I just had a lot of issues that I had to deal with. So that was probably the hardest part for me, just getting to a healthy point in my life where I could end it,” Beall said.

Despite these challenges, she persevered and finally published the book in May.

“It’s just a great, all-around, affordable way to plan your trip to Tuscaloosa,” Beall said.

The book can be purchased online from various websites, including Amazon.