Trussville is the quintessential small town: a perfect combination of walkable tree-lined streets with quaint mid-century cottages and a booming downtown retail district. Trussville is so close to Birmingham that it’s hard not to think of it as just another suburb of the big city, but it’s a place with its own unique identity. Although I have called Trussville home for just over a year, I have fallen in love with my charming little town. It’s definitely worth the short trip to explore all the family-friendly fun this area offers. Whether you’ve never driven “all the way” out to Trussville or it’s been awhile, I invite you to spend a day in my town.
What to See in Trussville
You should time your trip to Trussville to catch a live performance at the ACTA Theater. This intimate local playhouse puts on a variety of family-friendly productions throughout the year. My son’s first play was Madagascar the Musical. He happily bounced in the aisle and sang along to every number. Usually a big no-no in theater etiquette, this activity was welcome as these plays cater to youngsters and their rambunctious ways. More recently, we took the boys to see To Kill a Mockingbird. While the subject matter can be a bit heavy for a younger audience, they both really enjoyed it. They were mesmerized by the up-close interaction with the actors that only a small venue can provide. I really think their favorite part was recognizing classmates who were starring in the play.
Where to Eat in Trussville
When I ask my seven year old where he wants to eat for our date day, the resounding answer is always The Three Earred Rabbit. With an authentic old-fashioned soda fountain ambiance, this Trussville spot in the heart of downtown is perfect for a quick lunch. Their chicken salad is amazing, and their straightforward kid’s menu will be sure to please even the pickiest eaters. You’ll first be mesmerized by the fully stocked display counter of sweet treats greeting you at the front door. You might decide to eat dessert first. Their strawberry cake is DIVINE, and their array of adorable cupcakes is almost impossible to pass up. For an extra special indulgence, treat your little princess to a hand-crafted unicorn milkshake or perhaps a dinosaur milkshake for your little prince.
La Calle is a welcome newcomer to the scene. They specialize in authentic Mexican-style street tacos. After our first visit, my son proclaimed his dinner “THE BEST QUESADILLA IN THE WHOLE WIDE WORLD.” Now that is a true compliment coming from my grilled cheese/quesadilla connoisseur. La Calle offers a unique beverage that is as pretty to look as it is fun to drink. The concoction of juices and fruits are loaded with gummies and other exotic candies. Talk about a sugar rush, but it’s bound to mesmerize your little one. Who doesn’t like a side of gummy worms with dinner?
Where to Play in Trussville
Trussville is blessed with a lot of green space and plenty of recreational areas. Civitan Park is a great starting point for the Greenway Trail, which loops along the Cahaba River through a peaceful, wooded oasis where you feel like you’re miles away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Talk about a change of scenery! Did I mention they have a challenging disc golf course along the way? On a typical Saturday, you’ll see families walking dogs, hardcore joggers, and dads teaching their little ones to ride their bikes. Trussville also boasts a great playground and splash pad.
I love living in a small town, just a 20-minute drive to all the fabulous things that Birmingham offers. I feel like I have the best of both worlds. As I write this, downtown Trussville is undergoing a major redevelopment. I am so excited about the growth, as numerous new businesses will be popping up soon. Slag Heap Brewing Company is slated to open this fall, and the latest outpost of Edgar’s Bakery will be opening on Main Street. Hello, Strawberry Cake! Goodbye, Waistline!
