Introduction

Marion’s people are the driving force behind the Main Street designation and progress seen across the area. The time for change is now. Poised for economic growth in agriculture, forestry, and tourism and situated between three major metropolitan areas — Tuscaloosa, Birmingham, and Montgomery — Marion is waiting to be discovered. Marion is the seat of Perry County, AL and centrally located in Alabama’s Black Belt region.

Known as “College City”, Marion has historically been the cornerstone of education in Alabama. The birthplace of Samford University and Alabama State University as well as the current home of Marion Military Institute, Marion has helped to progress the state through education even prior to the 1840s. Marion is also the home of Lincoln Normal School, a historic African-American school with graduates such as Coretta Scott King and other Civil Rights leaders. Prominent individuals from Marion have included Coretta Scott King, Mary Ward Brown, Albert Turner Sr., Jimmie Lee Jackson, Porter King, and James Hal Kemp. From the Civil War to Civil Rights, citizens of Marion have shaped the world we know today.

#DiscoverMarion through our distinct culture, rich history, unique architecture, and unparalleled natural resources through our many museums and recreation opportunities. Join us as we work together, uniting as one community.

Spotlights

FOOD

• Lottie’s
• Chatino’s

• Encouraging Nutrition
• Dianne’s Diner

• Whillard’s
• The Shack

• Lotus Garden

LODGING

• Bennett Suites B&B
• The Sleep Inn

SELFIE SPOT

• Marion Art Center murals

SHOPPING

• College City Drugs

CULTURAL EXPERIENCE

• Marion Art Center
• Civil Rights Tour

OUTDOOR EXPERIENCE

• Swamp Fox Trail
• Perry Lakes Park