5 Places to Get Creative This Winter in DeKalb County
5 Places to Get Creative this Winter in DeKalb County
Written By Emma Goggans
DeKalb County is best known for its breathtaking views, scenic overlooks, and endless outdoor adventure spots. But when winter rolls in and the days feel a little too chilly for hiking trails and waterfall chasing, there’s another side of DeKalb County worth exploring—its creative one.
Winter is the perfect time to slow down, try something new, and tap into your artistic side. Whether you’ve always wanted to learn glassblowing, paint your own masterpiece, or simply surround yourself with local art and creativity, DeKalb County has plenty of indoor experiences that are just as inspiring as the great outdoors. Here are five places where you can warm up, get creative, and make something beautiful this winter.
1. Alice Circle – Fort Payne, AL
Alice Circle is a welcoming creative space that encourages artists of all levels to explore their talents. Located in historic downtown Fort Payne, this spot offers a supportive environment to learn, create, and connect. Whether you are a beginner picking up a paintbrush for the first time or a seasoned creative looking for inspiration, the Art Bar at Alice Circle welcomes everyone to sit down, slow down, and create something special. Classes and workshops here focus on both skill-building and community—making it a great place to spend a winter afternoon doing something meaningful and fun.
• 114 First Street West, Fort Payne, Alabama 35967
2. Orbix Hot Glass – Fort Payne, AL
Since 2002, Orbix Hot Glass has brought national attention to Lookout Mountain with its refined, handmade glassware. Known for clean designs, dependable craftsmanship, and exceptional quality, Orbix is both a working studio and an art gallery.
Visitors can browse stunning glass pieces on display or take things a step further by participating in live glassblowing demonstrations and hands-on classes. Watching molten glass transform into art is mesmerizing—and learning the process yourself is an unforgettable experience. It’s creative, fascinating, and a perfect way to escape the winter cold.
• 3869 County Road 275, Fort Payne, Alabama 35967
3. Darliene’s Backporch – Fort Payne, AL
If painting parties, creative workshops, and DIY projects are your thing, Darliene’s Backporch is a must-visit. This cozy creative space offers painting classes and parties, along with a wide selection of art supplies including paints, brushes, and specialty products.
• 2109 Gault Ave N, Fort Payne, AL 35967
4. The Locale – Fyffe, AL
The Locale is all about creativity, connection, and community. Located in Fyffe, this versatile space offers creative classes and also serves as an event venue for gatherings of all kinds.
Whether you’re looking to learn a new skill, share your expertise with others, or simply spend time in a creative environment, The Locale lives up to its name. It’s a place where ideas are shared, talents are discovered, and winter days are filled with inspiration instead of cabin fever.
• 996 Main Street, Fyffe, AL 35971
5. Mentone Arts Center – Mentone, AL
No creative winter in DeKalb County would be complete without a stop at the Mentone Arts Center. This beloved community art center was created for—and is supported by—the community, with a mission to preserve the artistic, musical, and cultural heritage of Mentone and the greater Lookout Mountain area.
The center hosts a variety of art-related events, including classes and workshops, along with shopping opportunities in the gallery and gift shop. Featuring the work of more than 60 regional artists and makers, it’s an inspiring space to browse, learn, and connect. As a nonprofit dedicated to arts education, the Mentone Arts Center is truly the heart of creativity on the mountain.
• 5951 AL Hwy 117, Mentone, Alabama 35984
Winter in DeKalb County doesn’t mean staying cooped up—it just means trading hiking boots for paintbrushes, clay tools, or a blowpipe. These creative spaces offer a warm welcome, a chance to learn something new, and memories that last long after January fades into spring.
So next time the weather keeps you indoors, lean into it. Get creative, support local artists, and discover a whole new side of DeKalb County this winter.
