DECATUR — As communications director for Decatur Morgan County Tourism, Emma Martin’s job is to get the word out about everything that makes Decatur and its surrounding communities worth the visit.
“Our mission is just to be a hub of information for folks coming in and out of the city,” Martin said. “So not only are we an information center, but we also promote – we’re the marketing arm for the city.”
That includes spotlighting attractions, events, history, and even nearby towns such as Hartselle and Falkville. Martin says one of the biggest shifts she’s seen recently is an increase in “local travel,” with residents from Madison and Athens choosing Decatur for quick getaways or weekend events.
If you’re thinking about planning a visit, Martin has a few recommendations.
“At the very, very top of my must-see list is the new farmers market,” she said. “It’s beautiful. It’s just recently been completely redesigned and renovated.”
The upgraded venue includes more than just produce vendors.
“They’re bringing live music, they’re bringing food trucks, they’re bringing yard games. They’re just adding to the experience,” Martin said. “It’s really kind of an immersive day at the farmers market now.”
Another new addition that’s quickly becoming a favorite is the Jimmy John’s Pickleball Center at Point Mallard.
“It is a 14-court pickleball center. It’s indoor-outdoor, has the roll-up doors, it’s heated for the winter so people can play all year round,” she said. “They were really methodical in that process.
“So, if you’re a pickleballer, it’s a must-see too.”
And for fans of the arts, Martin points to a classic venue hosting a fresh new show.
“The Princess is a staple. It’s iconic Decatur,” she said. “They’ve done such a good job in immersing themselves in our youth and the youth programs.”
The local Dream Weavers theater group will perform “Cats” the weekend of July 11.
“The costuming, the musicality of the show—it’s going to be one that I’m going to be front row for,” Martin said. “I’ve really been kind of captivated by the little teases they’ve given us.”
While those are just a few of Martin’s favorites, she encourages anyone interested in discovering more about Decatur to check out visitdecatural.org or follow @VisitDecaturAL on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Twitter.
“These are just a few things that I personally enjoy and am looking forward to experiencing,” she said. “But if you want the full rundown and the full scale of what Decatur has to offer, that’s where to start.”
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