Welcome to Alabama's Freshwater Coast

7 Things To Do In Winter At Lake Martin

Although Lake Martin is well known for its summertime boating fun, there are still so many fun things to do in winter at Lake Martin.  Yes, some of that fun is happening indoors, but contrary to some belief-there are still some fun things happening outside, and dare I say it…… even fun on the water.

Go Fishing on Lake Martin

man with fish

That fun on the water continues throughout the winter as anglers from all over flock to Lake Martin to hit the water in search of bass, stripers, crappie, and catfish.  Winter is an extremely popular time to be fishing on the lake, and the number of fishing tournaments that come to the area during the winter months is proof that the fishing is great.  But you don’t have to be a pro to enjoy the fishing here.  Bring your own boat, rent a fishing boat at Wind Creek State Park, or take a guided trip with Alex City Guide Service.  Don’t forget you can always check out the latest fishing reports on the Lake Martin Blog.

Take The Lake Martin Hiking Challenge

girl by hiking sign

The Lake Martin Hiking Challenge consists of 10 hiking trails in the area.  It’s free to participate, and once complete, you will earn a free patch and certificate.  All of the trails are unique in their own ways, and this is a great way to get out and explore the beauty of our area.  All of the Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail Association trails are included, as well as trails at Russell Forest, Wind Creek State Park, Horseshoe Bend National Military Park, the Nature’s Way Preserve, and the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex.  During the winter months while the water is down, you can even enjoy the Island Hop Trails at Smith Mountain, which are normally covered with water during the summer months.  That’s an extra treat that you can only enjoy during the winter.

Have Some Fun At The Arcade

people playing games

If you want to head indoors, make sure to enjoy some time at Respawn Arcade-which offers fun for the young, and young at heart.  There’s old school 80’s and 90’s consoles, as well as all of the modern favorites.  There’s also pinball, and arcade games like Buck Hunter and Pac-Man.  Oh-and there’s even virtual reality games, Rock Band, Dance Dance Revolution, Skee Ball, Hoop Fever, air hockey, and more.

Check Out The Largest Musclecar Museum In The World

cars at wellborn museum

Take a step back into the 1970’s and gaze in awe at some of the most iconic muscle cars in the world.  From the outside, it is hard to tell just what a unique and bright experience awaits inside the Wellborn Musclecar Museum.  The building itself was actually an old Chevy dealership, and the look and feel remains to this day.  There are so many special cars to see, like the K&K Insurance 1969 Dodge Charger Daytona that Bobby Isaac drove to win the 1970 NASCAR championship, the Paint Chip Cuda, and more.  They are open to the public on Saturdays, but you can also book a private tour.  Trust us-the private tour is totally worth it!

Shoot Machine Guns

woman and man with gun

Yes-you can shoot real machine guns at Lake Martin Machine Gun-in a super safe environment.  That is not something you can find just anywhere.  There are multiple guns that you can choose from, and one of the coolest parts (besides actually shooting the guns themselves) is learning the history of the guns.  They have multiple shooting bays, including one specifically for pistols and rifles.  So yes, you can also bring your own guns along. The main range itself has a roof covering overhead to shelter visitors from any form of weather.  It is also temperature controlled with heating and air conditioning-which makes it a perfect way to stay warm and have a little fun even on a cold winter day.

Take In A Movie

movie theater

Check out the latest cinematic masterpiece at Alexander City’s Playhouse Cinemas.  They are equipped with the latest technology, including Christie Projectors, Dolby Digital Surround Sound, and Real 3D. They also have some of the best popcorn you have ever eaten!

Grab Coffee At One Of Lake Martin’s Amazing Coffee Shops

girls making coffee

And we couldn’t not address one of our must-haves during the winter-coffee!  Our area has some great coffee shops surrounding Lake Martin, including BRU 63 at Russell Crossroads in Alexander City and Nirvana Latte in Dadeville. If you are in a hurry and just need a quick pick-me-up, check out Scooter’s Coffee, which is a drive through only coffee shop in Alexander City.  No matter which you choose, you will enjoy plenty of java options.

Lake Martin is open 365 days per year, and whether you are on the water or not, there are plenty of things to do around Lake Martin in the winter!