Lake Life: Gunterville’s City Harbor
Text by Laura Anders Lee
Gunterville’s City Harbor opens just in time for summer
City Harbor, a new mixed-use property on Alabama’s largest lake, is sure to make a big splash. Whether arriving by water or by land, visitors will know they’ve come to the right place when they see “City Harbor” emblazoned in big red letters. The impressive family entertainment complex includes waterfront vacation rentals, restaurants and retail, special event space and boat slips.
The property, located just south of the Highway 431 River Bridge in Guntersville, was developed by Patrick Lawler, owner of P. Lawler Enterprises. The Guntersville native moved to Texas after high school in 1984 where he began his career in commercial real estate.
“I’ve developed dozens of properties in Texas, and now it’s extremely cool to work on projects in my hometown,” says Lawler, who was also behind The Reserve at Lake Guntersville, an upscale residential community. “The lake is a wonderful asset, but I saw a big opportunity. I told the city ‘you have a 69,000-acre playground without a swing set—please let me build the swing set.’”
City Harbor is an incredible place to play indeed. The complex, which juts out over the lake, offers stunning views from multiple angles. Shoppers will find treasures at Home Re.Decor, a new locally owned interiors shop, while craft beer enthusiasts can enjoy local labels at the Brewers Cooperative of Alabama, housed in silos. Foodies will find plenty of satisfying options, from the popular chain Another Broken Egg to local favorites such as The Wake Eatery, La Esquina Cocina, Big Mike’s Steakhouse and The Cigar Room. Lawler has even opened his own signature restaurant, Levi’s on the Lake, with indoor and outdoor dining as well as a boardwalk, sound stage and games like cornhole for the whole family.
“I named our restaurant for my 2-year-old grandson, Levi,” says Lawler. “The best part is that not only are we wrapping up the project, we’re in the process of moving from Texas to Guntersville. I’ve been really wanting to get my family back to Alabama. I can’t wait.”
Guntersville officials are also excited for the project. Haley Rutland, communications director for Marshall County Tourism and Sports, says the property will be a big draw for residents as well as daytrippers and overnight visitors.
“This project is the first of its kind,” says Rutland. “City Harbor really adds to our beautiful destination and the Lake Guntersville experience.”
City Harbor Suites include 20 condos with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, well-equipped kitchens and balconies overlooking the lake. Units are available for short-term rental.
Located above the retail and restaurant space, City Harbor Event Center features 6,000 square feet indoors and 2,500 square feet outside overlooking the water.
The City Harbor marina includes 50 floating docks for overnight guests and restaurant patrons coming by boat as well as 50 covered slips available for long-term lease. Lawler says he wants to add boat rentals onsite in the future, but for now, visitors can rent pontoon boats and fishing boats from Guntersville State Park to visit City Harbor by water.
Lawler hopes the new amenities will attract more permanent residents to Gunterville who are looking for a lake lifestyle.
“Huntsville’s job market is growing, and people are moving from all over,” says Lawler. “Guntersville is just 40 minutes from Huntsville, which is nothing when you’re used to places like Dallas and Fort Worth. For me, being on the lake is a no-brainer.”
Whether coming for a meal or staying overnight, Alabamians appear ready for a dynamic waterfront experience without having to drive all the way to the Gulf. On a hot summer day, it’s hard to beat a cold beer, live music, and good food on the water, enjoyed in North Alabama’s own backyard.
