As the owners of Tri-Cross, we chose Tuscaloosa to be our home for many reasons. One reason being the strong, close-knit community that Tuscaloosa has grown to be. The University of Alabama football program is one aspect of town that brings people together and creates a fun, competitive environment. Nick Saban knew that unity and hard work would bring out the best in his team, and at Tri-Cross we believe that those attributes are just as important to having an amazing town, like Tuscaloosa, to call home. At Tri-Cross, we believe that as business owners, we should always aspire to be dedicated, understanding, and most importantly, strong and hard-working. We believe that is what drives us to be great business owners. Our customers are our number one priority, and we will always strive to make sure we fulfill your needs. Thank you for choosing Tri-Cross Construction to make your dream home a reality.
​
More About Tuscaloosa
Tuscaloosa, Alabama, offers a variety of great dining options, whether you're looking for Southern comfort food, fresh seafood, or a trendy spot for a night out. Here are some great places to eat in Tuscaloosa:
1. Big Mikes
-
Cuisine: Southern Steak House
-
Why go: A longtime favorite for fresh Steak with a Southern flair, Big Mikes is known for its laid-back atmosphere and excellent service. Enjoy dishes like shrimp and grits, fresh oysters, and fish prepared in various ways.
2. Depalma's
-
Cuisine: Italian
-
Why go: A family-owned restaurant that serves traditional Italian dishes, Depalma's is a go-to for flavorful and healthy Italian options.
3. Evangeline's
-
Cuisine: Cajun/Creole
-
Why go: Evangeline's brings the flavors of New Orleans to Tuscaloosa with dishes like jambalaya, crawfish étouffée, and po'boys. The cozy, rustic atmosphere makes it a great spot for casual dining.
4. Little Willie's
-
Cuisine: American/Southern
-
Why go: A popular bar and grill known for its burgers, wings, and Southern sides, Little Willie's has a lively atmosphere perfect for hanging out with friends or enjoying a meal with a cold drink. Their fried chicken tenders and fried green tomatoes are fan favorites.
5. Chuck's Fish
-
Cuisine: Seafood & Sushi
-
Why go: Chuck's Fish offers an upscale seafood dining experience with a modern twist. Known for its fresh fish, sushi, and oysters, it's perfect for a date night or special occasion. The decor is chic, and the cocktails are top-notch.
6. Alabama Sweet Tea
-
Cuisine: Southern Comfort
-
Why go: A newer addition to the Tuscaloosa food scene, Alabama Sweet Tea serves up Southern comfort food with a contemporary twist. From fried chicken to mac and cheese, this place offers all the classics with a modern presentation.
7. Taco Mama
-
Cuisine: Mexican
-
Why go: Taco Mama is a favorite for tacos, burritos, and margaritas. The vibrant atmosphere and great happy hour make it a go-to spot for both locals and visitors. It's a great place for a casual, flavorful meal.
8. Bucataria
-
Cuisine: Italian
-
Why go: If you're in the mood for Italian food, Bucataria offers handmade pastas, delicious sauces, and an excellent wine selection. It’s an upscale, cozy place with authentic Italian flavors and a warm atmosphere.
9. The Grey Lady
-
Cuisine: New American
-
Why go: This sophisticated restaurant specializes in New American cuisine with a focus on high-quality ingredients. The menu changes seasonally, but you can expect fresh seafood, prime cuts of meat, and creative dishes.
10. Wood Fired Pizza Company
-
Cuisine: Pizza
-
Why go: For pizza lovers, this place delivers wood-fired pies with a range of delicious toppings and a crispy crust. They also offer a variety of appetizers, sandwiches, and salads, making it a solid choice for a casual but tasty meal.
11. The Alley
-
Cuisine: American & Southern
-
Why go: The Alley has a relaxed atmosphere and serves a great mix of Southern-inspired dishes and comfort food. With a large outdoor seating area and a great selection of craft beers, it’s a perfect spot for an evening out.
Tuscaloosa offers a nice range of dining options, so whether you’re craving Southern, Mediterranean, seafood, or something else, you'll find something to enjoy!
https://www.alleycakecompany.com/
​
Tuscaloosa, Alabama, offers a mix of cultural, outdoor, and historical attractions for visitors and locals alike. Whether you're into history, sports, nature, or food, there’s something fun to enjoy in the city. Here are some great things to do in Tuscaloosa:
1. Visit the University of Alabama Campus
-
Why go: The University of Alabama (UA) is a big part of Tuscaloosa's identity, and its campus offers many beautiful spots to explore. Walk around the Quad, visit the Denny Chimes, or take in the architecture of Foster Auditorium, which is historically significant.
2. Bryant-Denny Stadium
-
Why go: If you're a football fan, this is a must-see. Home to the Alabama Crimson Tide football team, Bryant-Denny Stadium is one of the largest and most famous college football stadiums in the country. Catch a game if you’re in town during football season or take a tour to learn about the history of Alabama football.
3. Tuscaloosa Amphitheater
-
Why go: This outdoor venue hosts concerts, festivals, and other live events with a view of the Black Warrior River. It’s a great place to enjoy live music during the warmer months, with a variety of performances from different genres.
4. Tuscaloosa Riverwalk
-
Why go: The Tuscaloosa Riverwalk is a scenic path that runs along the Black Warrior River, perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling. There are also picnic areas, docks, and spots to relax by the water. It’s a peaceful escape right in the heart of the city.
-
https://visittuscaloosa.com›listing›the-riverwalk
5. Moundville Archaeological Park
-
Why go: Explore one of the largest prehistoric Native American sites in the Southeast at Moundville. The park offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the Mississippian people, with ancient mounds, exhibits at the museum, and walking trails.
6. The Paul W. Bryant Museum
-
Why go: A must-visit for college football fans, this museum celebrates the legacy of Alabama football, especially Coach Paul "Bear" Bryant. It's filled with memorabilia, trophies, and exhibits showcasing the history of the sport at the University of Alabama.
7. Kentuck Art Center
-
Why go: The Kentuck Art Center is an artist community and gallery that showcases the work of local and regional artists. The center hosts art exhibits, workshops, and special events. It’s a great spot to explore Tuscaloosa’s vibrant arts scene.
8. Snow Hinton Park
-
Why go: A lovely local park perfect for a relaxing afternoon. It has a walking trail, sports fields, playgrounds, and picnic areas. The park is also home to several community events and gatherings throughout the year.
9. Gorgas House Museum
-
Why go: This historic house on the University of Alabama campus offers a peek into the past with exhibits about the history of the university and the Gorgas family. It’s one of the oldest buildings on campus and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
10. The Bama Theatre
-
Why go: This historic theatre in downtown Tuscaloosa hosts a variety of cultural events, including live performances, concerts, and movie screenings. It's a beautiful venue for an evening of entertainment, with a charming old-school atmosphere.
11. Lake Tuscaloosa
-
Why go: For outdoor enthusiasts, Lake Tuscaloosa offers a range of recreational activities, from boating and fishing to hiking and swimming. There are several parks and public access areas around the lake, making it an ideal spot for a day trip.
-
https://visittuscaloosa.com›listing›lake-tuscaloosa
12. The Tuscaloosa Farmers Market
-
Why go: Open seasonally, this farmers market is a great place to shop for local produce, homemade goods, and crafts. It's a perfect spot to support local vendors and enjoy fresh, seasonal produce.
13. Alabama Museum of Natural History
-
Why go: Located at the University of Alabama, this museum has fascinating exhibits on paleontology, geology, and the natural history of the state. It’s a great family-friendly attraction and offers a variety of educational experiences.
14. Druid City Brewing Company
-
Why go: If you're a fan of craft beer, make sure to stop by Druid City Brewing Company. Tuscaloosa’s first brewery offers a wide selection of locally brewed beers and often hosts live music, food trucks, and other fun events.
15. Sokol Park
-
Why go: This beautiful park offers nature trails, picnic areas, and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for a day outdoors. It's also home to a BMX track, making it a fun spot for cyclists.
16. Bowers Park
-
Why go: Another great park for outdoor activities, Bowers Park features sports facilities, a playground, and walking trails. It’s a good place for families to enjoy the outdoors or get in some exercise.
17. Canoe or Kayak on the Black Warrior River
-
Why go: If you enjoy water sports, the Black Warrior River is a great place to go canoeing, kayaking, or paddleboarding. You can rent gear from local companies or simply enjoy the natural beauty of the river.
18. Ghost Tours of Tuscaloosa
-
Why go: For those interested in the paranormal, a ghost tour of Tuscaloosa offers a spooky, historical look at the city’s haunted past. You’ll get to explore historic spots in the downtown area while hearing eerie tales from the past.
With its blend of historical landmarks, outdoor activities, sports culture, and local events, Tuscaloosa offers a great mix of things to do for visitors of all interests!
​
Tuscaloosa, Alabama, has a rich and fascinating history that dates back thousands of years and includes significant events that helped shape the state and the nation. Here’s a brief overview of the history of Tuscaloosa:
Early History and Native American Presence
Before European settlers arrived, the area around Tuscaloosa was inhabited by several Native American tribes, including the Choctaw, Chickasaw, and Muskogee Creek. The land was part of the broader Mississippian culture area, known for its large earthen mounds and sophisticated societies. Moundville Archaeological Park, just south of modern-day Tuscaloosa, is a significant archaeological site that provides evidence of Native American settlements dating back to the 11th century.
The Founding of Tuscaloosa
The area that would become Tuscaloosa was originally part of the Creek Nation. After the Creek War (1813–1814), much of this land was ceded to the United States, and settlers began moving into the region. The town of Tuscaloosa was founded in 1819, shortly after Alabama became a state. The name “Tuscaloosa” comes from the Muscogee Creek chief Tuskalusa, who was known for leading his people in the battle against the Spanish in the early 16th century. The name itself roughly translates to “Black Warrior,” which is also reflected in the nearby Black Warrior River.
Early Development and Role as State Capital
In the early 19th century, Tuscaloosa became a key center for trade and commerce in the area. The town's strategic location along the river allowed it to grow quickly. In 1826, Tuscaloosa became the capital of Alabama when the state's legislature moved from Huntsville. The state capital remained in Tuscaloosa until 1846, when it was moved to Montgomery due to its more central location.
During this period, Tuscaloosa became a hub of education and culture, with the University of Alabama established in 1831. The university would go on to play an important role in the city's development.
Civil War and Reconstruction
Like much of the South, Tuscaloosa was deeply affected by the Civil War (1861–1865). The town supported the Confederacy, and the University of Alabama’s campus was used as a hospital for Confederate soldiers. In 1865, the university's buildings were severely damaged during the war, and Tuscaloosa itself was occupied by Union forces.
After the war, during the Reconstruction period, Tuscaloosa struggled to recover. The town, like many Southern cities, faced economic hardship, social upheaval, and the difficult process of reintegrating into the Union.
Industrialization and Growth
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Tuscaloosa began to industrialize. The arrival of the railroad in the 1850s opened up trade and transportation links, allowing the city to grow economically. Tuscaloosa's economy was based on manufacturing, especially iron and steel, thanks to the rich natural resources found in the area, including coal, iron ore, and limestone. The Tuscaloosa Iron Works became a prominent industrial site, helping to build the foundations of the city’s economy.
20th Century: Civil Rights and Modernization
The mid-20th century brought significant change to Tuscaloosa, particularly during the Civil Rights Movement. Tuscaloosa, like much of the South, was a focal point for struggles over segregation and voting rights. One of the most significant events in the city's history was the 1963 desegregation of the University of Alabama. Governor George Wallace famously stood in the doorway of the university’s admissions office, blocking the enrollment of African American students, Vivian Malone and James Hood. However, with federal intervention, the students were able to enroll, marking a turning point in the civil rights struggle in Alabama.
The Late 20th Century and Beyond
In the latter half of the 20th century, Tuscaloosa experienced substantial growth and modernization. The city’s economy diversified, with the automotive industry becoming an increasingly important part of its economy. The Mercedes-Benz plant opened in nearby Vance in the 1990s, bringing jobs and investment to the region. Tuscaloosa itself continued to thrive as a cultural and educational hub, especially with the University of Alabama being a central force in the city’s development.
Tuscaloosa also experienced some hardships, particularly in 2011, when a devastating EF-4 tornado struck the city, causing significant damage and loss of life. The city rallied to rebuild, and it has since recovered, with many of the areas hit by the tornado seeing renewed development and revitalization.
Modern Day
Today, Tuscaloosa is a vibrant city with a mix of historical charm and modern amenities. The University of Alabama remains a cornerstone of the community, both culturally and economically, with its sports programs, particularly football, playing a major role in the city’s identity. The city also embraces its historical roots while looking toward the future, with new businesses, parks, and cultural events enriching the community.
​
Just more reasons to love Tuscaloosa, just as much as we do!