Local Information on the Tuscaloosa Area
Discovered in 1540 by troops of Hernando DeSoto, the name Tuscaloosa is derived rom the Choctaw Indian Chief Tushkauloosa, which literally translated, means “Black Warrior.” The second largest county in the state, Tuscaloosa County encompasses an area of 1,340 square miles, serving a regional market of over 350,000 people.
Location. Tuscaloosa County is located in West Central Alabama. Accessible to key, major markets in the Southeast, Tuscaloosa County is 50 miles southwest of Birmingham and 95 miles northwest of Montgomery. Atlanta, Memphis and Nashville are within a 200-mile radius. To the south are Mobile, the Alabama Gulf Coast and New Orleans only a few hours away.
Entertainment/Recreation. From cultural activities to outdoor fun, the choice of entertainment is as broad as The Black Warrior River itself. Theatre, dance, opera, visual arts, music, crafts, festivals, film and educational programs all provide the Tuscaloosa area with exceptional cultural opportunities.
Many of the events throughout Tuscaloosa County are presented by the Arts Council of Tuscaloosa; the Performing Arts Center; Kentuck Art Center; Theatre Tuscaloosa; Tuscaloosa Symphony Orchestra; and University of Alabama Music, Dance & Theatre.
Numerous spectator sports are available throughout the area and region. Tuscaloosa County is the home of The University of Alabama, Stillman College and Shelton State Community College. They offer various sporting events throughout the year.
Hunting, fishing and other recreational activities are very popular in the Tuscaloosa County and West Alabama area.
Water sports are provided by Lake Tuscaloosa, Holt Lake, Lake Lurleen, Lake Nichol, Oliver Lake and The Black Warrior River. The
Tuscaloosa County Park and Recreation Authority (PARA) operates 31 public parks totaling 1,700 acres of public land. PARA also provides citizens with a full range of playgrounds, 20 softball fields, 45 tennis courts, 17 picnic areas and eight baseball fields.
There are five public golf courses, four private courses and two practice ranges in the Tuscaloosa area.
A listing of upcoming events is available from the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama and the Tuscaloosa Convention and Visitors Bureau.
Area Services. In The Tuscaloosa City Public School System, there are 12 elementary schools, 3 middle schools and 4 high schools.
The Tuscaloosa County Public School System consists of 16 elementary schools, 7 middle schools and 5 high schools.
Hospital service is provided by DCN Regional Medical Center and Northport Medical Center.
Tuscaloosa County offers an abundance of area attractions including many historical homes, sites and museums. The Mercedes-Benz Visitors Center, Paul W. Bryant