Tucked away in the northwest corner of Alabama along the banks of the stunning Tennessee River is a tiny town with big charm. Rogersville is situated near Wheeler Dam, built to enable navigation along the river. The dam formed Wheeler Lake, which has become known for its legendary bass fishing. It’s the second-largest lake in the state, and Rogersville proudly serves as its local hub. The town welcomes visitors to its walkable main street lined with shops. It’s also home to Joe Wheeler State Park, an outdoor recreational playground for anglers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Rogersville is an hour west of Huntsville, Alabama, the largest city in the state. Visitors can fly to the Huntsville International Airport and head straight to Rogersville. To save money, anglers should pack vacation-friendly fishing gear and avoid using rentals. Another option is to travel to Rogersville by boat on the Tennessee River via the Great Loop — a waterway connecting the Great Lakes, Atlantic Seaboard, and Gulf of Mexico, also known as the Gulf of America.
While Rogersville is not immune to the brutal humidity and heat of the American South, its recreation options on the water make it a fun destination any time of year. Fishing conditions peak in early spring and through the summer. The town’s main street, Lee Street, hosts events and sidewalk sales during every season, inviting local vendors to sell their handmade goods and farm-fresh produce.
What to do and where to stay in Rogersville
Whatever brings you to Rogersville, don’t let the time pass you by without hunting for unique treasures. Stroll down Lee Street and stop by Ann’s Quilts and Country Store, a local favorite for all kinds of trinkets. There’s also Village Interiors Specialty Gifts for chic home decor items and accessories. Be sure to visit The Lemon Tree, a gorgeous shop with clothing and designer jewelry.
Taste of Maine Lobster Shack is the one and only eatery on Lee Street, serving up lobster rolls and other Maine-style delicacies. Beyond the main street, Bloom Winery invites you to slow down and savor local sips, wood-fired pizza, and wine slushies while live music sets the mood every Saturday. A trip to Rogersville wouldn’t be complete without a stop at Fat Cats Restaurant, open at 5:30 a.m. from Monday to Saturday so you can fuel up before your fishing trip. Whether you pop in for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, you’ll be treated to authentic down-home cooking and a generous helping of southern hospitality.
As for accommodations in Rogersville, Joe Wheeler State Park is a great place to stay. It has several options to choose from, including adorable cabins and lakeside cottages. The Joe Wheeler State Park Resort Lodge is another popular choice, featuring 75 suites with lake-facing balconies. Daniella’s Restaurant at the lodge offers beautiful views of the marina paired with prime rib on Fridays and seafood buffets on Saturdays.
Enjoy the great outdoors around Rogersville, Alabama
