Attractions / Tourism
Attractions/Tourism | Why Make a Special Trip to Leeds, Alabama? There aren't many cities the size of Leeds that pack this much tourism punch.
Barber Motorsports Park
One of the biggest tourist draws in Leeds, AL is Barber Motorsports Park. Catering to both Indycars and MotoAmerica, the track here is a road course, featuring 17 turns over a 2.38 mile surface. Designed differently than the "average" race track, the Barber Motorsports road course features spectator views from multiple grassy banks and naturally wooded areas. The track features challenging changes in elevation, making it one of the drivers' and fans' favorite stops along the Indycar circuit and a true thriller for those kneecap-threatening motorcycles!
But Barber Motorsports Park is more than just a racetrack. It also features an 880 acre multipurpose facility, including the World's Largest Motorcycle Museum (according to the Guinness Book of World Records), as well as many exhibits for the car enthusiast, especially in the realm of Lotus racecars. Every year, the calendar is filled with events for the whole family.
The Outlet Shops of Grand River
Featuring more than 70 shops and factory outlets, The Outlet Shops of Grand River offers a relaxing atmosphere to shop or just whittle away a few hours, complete with a food court, ample areas for sitting, kiosks for entertaining the kids, and an exhaustive variety of shops from formalwear to sportswear to children's clothing, as well as hardware, shoes and accessories, and even a drive-in theater, dog park, backyard hangout with mini-golf and restaurants.
Grand River Drive-In Theatre
Grand River Drive-In Theater offers both new blockbuster movies and some old, beloved classic films. They also have a miniature golf course, an excellent canteen, The Backyard hangout with yard games dog park and the option to view the movies from either your vehicle or under the stars on lawn chairs or blankets.
Porsche Driving Experience
For those who feel the need for speed, the Porsche Driving Experience in Leeds, AL lets you experience the thrill of all-out, gloves-off, game-on driving. Offering different programs, depending on the experience you desire, the Porsche Driving Experience begins with a one-hour training session, and then students hit the track for hands-on driving training.
The driving school uses the professional track at Barber Motorsports Park, allowing you to drive exactly like the pros do. Not only is this a thrilling experience for any car or driving enthusiast, it's actually excellent training for becoming an even better driver in "real life".
Other Things to See & Do in Leeds, AL
Leeds is close enough to Birmingham to enjoy all of the big city events, such as those at the BJCC, Alabama Theater, Civil Rights District, and more. But it's far enough away to avoid the crowds and enjoy some laid-back R&R. Prepare for a day on one of the area's amazing lakes with a trip to Bass Pro Shops, just next to The Outlet Shops of Grand River.
Dine in Leeds
Or, take in some of the country's absolute best barbecue at area landmarks like Rusty's Bar-B-Que, Bluegrass Barbecue and Old Smokey Bar-B-Que. You won't believe the difference in these local smokehouses compared to the chain restaurants you're probably used to. Looking for something different? Check out some authentic Southern comfort food at Laney's Restaurant or delicious deli-sandwiches, casseroles and desserts at the Three Earred Rabbit. How about Tex-Mex at El-Cazador Mexican Grill or Mango's Cantina & Grill. In the mood for some Asian cuisine? Check Izumi for some sushi and Japanese fare. Check out The Backyard at The Outlet Shops of Grand River with Saw's BBQ, Neighbors Brew & Pies or the food court with a combination of fast food and one of a kind cooked to order cuisine with Farm & Sea Seafood Grill.