Tuscaloosa, located 53 miles southwest of the Birmingham airport, is the home of the University of Alabama and Stillman College. Tuscaloosa, founded in 1819 along the Black Warrior River, is named for the Chocktow Indian chief, Tuscaloosa. The name means Black Warrior. Tuscaloosa is also called Druid City for water oaks planted Downtown.

The University of Alabama has been an integral part of the city's growth and economy since its founding in 1831. Alabama Crimson Tide football is a highlight of Tuscaloosa life. Stillman College, an HBCU, was founded in 1874 by the Presbyterian Church in the United States as a school for African-American male ministers.