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 Rainbow City, Alabama 35906- A Hidden Treasure 

A hidden treasure with many unique things to see and do, Rainbow City is a quaint upcoming destination in the state of Alabama. A few miles south of Gadsden, this area has plenty to offer with spectacular parks, riverside activities and interesting museums and galleries all close by.

Discover the beautiful Coosa River as you take in the scenic landscapes on a tranquil canoe or kayak adventure with the local outfitters at Neely Henry Lake. This huge lake offers a range of water sports as well as relaxing lakeside picnics. The surrounding National Park is a fantastic place to visit at all times of year with wildflowers in spring, autumn foliage and low winter sun which illuminates rock formations across the landscape.

For a real treat, you can learn to scuba dive at Dive Land Park around 13 miles drive from Rainbow City and explore the underwater world of the Coosa River. The scuba diving courses here are suitable for beginners and experienced divers alike with classes led by qualified instructors. The centre also has a large shop, swimming pool and hot tub to help you relax after your dive.

The non-profit Gadsden Museum of Art is hard to miss with its glass fronted and brightly coloured cylindrical entrance in Downtown Gadsden. Inside, the museum's exhibits change throughout the year allowing solo artists, creative groups and photographers from across the region to showcase their work. The venue also hosts a number of alfresco concerts and events throughout the year.

Rainbow City is served by the Etowah County School District with one public elementary, one middle and one high school located in the town. The town is also home to several private schools.

Find out more about the various routes from Gadsden to Rainbow City using the interactive map on this page. On the map, you'll find all the key information including the distance from Gadsden to Rainbow City, the estimated travel time and cost as well as an overview of the traffic situation on the route. In addition, you'll have access to a wide selection of MICHELIN restaurant recommendations (for all destinations covered by the map) and helpful tips on how to get there.

The Best Of Rainbow City, Alabama 35906

The picturesque town of Rainbow City is surrounded by spectacular parks, wildlife trails, riverside activities and art centres, each one offering the best of this region of Alabama. It is also within easy reach of some of the best restaurants in the state, including the aptly named Top O' the River, offering incredible views of the Coosa River.

Established in 1818, the area that now encompasses Rainbow City received settlers as families from southern states migrated west looking for upcoming opportunities. It was incorporated as a city in 1950. Located in Etowah County, it has a mayor/council form of government and is served by the Gadsden-Rainbow City Airport.

A short drive north of the city centre takes you to Noccalula Falls Park, where visitors can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities. Neely Henry Lake is another popular destination, providing a wealth of lake-based fun with motorized watersports and fishing among the main attractions.

For nature enthusiasts, Martin Wildlife Park Trail offers birding and relaxing on scenic woodland paths. The flora here includes wildflowers, deciduous trees and low winter sun that highlights rock formations. Other popular activities in this region of the state include hiking, biking and horseback riding.

Those wanting to learn a new skill during their stay in the area can take scuba diving lessons at Dive Land Park. It is located around 13 miles from the centre of Rainbow City and teaches a range of courses for beginners, intermediates and experienced divers.

Other local activities include visiting the annual yard sale held each year, a great place to pick up some unique treasures. It takes place over several days and is held in different locations around the city, with vendors selling everything from furniture to books, clothes to toys.

If you're in the mood for fine dining, head to the town's only restaurant, the Rainbow City Restaurant and Bar, which is known for its fried chicken and fish dishes. The restaurant is housed in an old church and is a popular spot with families for lunch or dinner.

For those with a love for cars, the city is just a short distance from Lookout Mountain Parkway, which is famous as one of America's most scenic drives. It's a popular route for hikers, cyclists, motorists and motorcycle riders who enjoy spectacular vistas from the high elevations along its twisting roads.