MONTGOMERY-As Alabama’s tourism partners begin to welcome back visitors, we’ll help you stay informed of measures to protect your health and peace of mind while traveling in Sweet Home Alabama.
We hope your vacation is all fun and games, but there’s no harm in being prepared in the event of severe weather, a medical emergency or other health and safety issues. Keep these phone numbers and resources on hand when traveling in Alabama.
Travel Warning Update: COVID-19
Consumers should be aware that the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) is disrupting travel and tourism around the world, including in Alabama. We look forward to a time when we can again welcome all to travel to and within Sweet Home Alabama. Meanwhile, please stay aware and stay informed to insure you stay safe at home or – when the time is right – while traveling.
The Alabama Department of Public Health offers information and resources; and, has issued a statewide Safer at Home – Proceeding With Caution order effective until 5 p.m. July 3, 2020. Directives are summarized here for simplified reference. Also, the office of the Governor of the State of Alabama is posting news and resources to assist in keeping Alabamians and our future guests informed.
Certain Alabama entertainment venues including tourist attractions are re-opening as of May 22, 2020. In addition to Safer at Home Order and social distancing mandates, additional practices are being implemented to insure visitor safety. Alabama’s beaches are open; however, beach goers must follow local and state restrictions on their use including social distancing.
Accommodation and food service establishments may be operating with limited and varying levels of service. Many restaurants have continued to offer carry-out and delivery while others will be re-opening dining areas to partial capacity. Most festival and event organizers are canceling or rescheduling events throughout the year. Under these circumstances, you are strongly advised to contact directly event organizers and establishments for the most current information prior to making any travel plans.
While the health risk for most people in the United States may be low, all are encouraged to follow the advice and monitor the latest news from authoritative sources on public health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers extensive information and resources on COVID-19, including advice specifically for travelers. And, the White House can be a source for the latest news and federal restrictions and guidelines upon which state and local decisions may be based.
Additional Sources for Alabama Travel Updates
For the most up-to-date information on COVID-19 related developments in some of our most popular destinations, visit these specific pages from our local Destination Marketing and Partner Organizations:
- Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources
- Alabama Restaurant and Hospitality Association
- Alabama State Parks
- Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau
- Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism
- Huntsville/Madison County Convention & Visitors Bureau
- Montgomery Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
- North Alabama
- The City of Tuscaloosa
- Visit Dothan
- Visit Mobile
Alabama Participation in Safety Initiatives
The Alabama Restaurant & Hospitality Association has introduced the “Alabama Restaurant Promise.” The purpose is to better ensure best safety practices among restaurants and their staffs; and, instill greater confidence among customers as they choose to return to dine-in service within Alabama. Look for the “Alabama Restaurant Promise” logo at – or inquire about it with – Alabama food service establishments when making your dining plans.
“Safe Stay” is the American Hotel & Lodging Association’s initiative focused on enhanced hotel cleaning practices, social interactions, and workplace protocols to meet the new health and safety challenges and expectations presented by COVID-19. Look for the “Safe Stay” logo at – or inquire about it with – Alabama accommodations providers for added confidence when making your travel plans.
“Travel in the New Normal” describes vigorous measures the travel industry will follow to reduce the risk of COVID-19 and help to communicate across each and every step of a traveler’s journey. The goal: to allow travel to safely resume as states and municipalities relax industry restrictions and physical distancing guidance. “Travel in the New Normal” was developed under the leadership of the travel industry nationwide and the U.S. Travel Association of which the Alabama Tourism Department is affiliated.
Media Release/Alabama Tourism Department
