Sure, Alabama’s larger cities feature many great tourist attractions, but many tourist attractions can also be found in the state’s smaller towns and cities.
Here are 10 small towns and cities in Alabama that feature popular tourist attractions:
1. Cherokee - Coon Dog Cemetery
Established in 1937, the Key Underwood Coon Dog Memorial Graveyard (a.k.a. Coon Dog Cemetery) is reserved specifically for the burial of coon dogs. There are more than 300 dogs buried here, and it's the only cemetery of its kind in the world.
2. Tuskegee - Hangar One Museum
The Hangar One Museum is the perfect attraction for a military or aviation enthusiast. It's part of the Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site and focuses on how the idea for the Tuskegee Airmen came about. A restored PT-17 and a restored J3 Piper Cub are on display. The Hangar One Museum is open regularly.
3. Selma - Edmund Pettus Bridge
Built in 1940, the Edmund Pettus Bridge was the site of the conflict of "Bloody Sunday" on March 7, 1965, and it was declared a National Historic Landmark in 2013. Many tourists visit Selma annually to see this historic bridge.
4. Scottsboro - Unclaimed Baggage Center
If you've ever lost your luggage while in flight, chances are it ended up here. The Unclaimed Baggage Center is the only store in the U.S. that buys and sells unclaimed baggage from airlines, and it's one of Alabama's top shopping and tourist attractions.
5. Elberta - Dinosaurs in the Woods
Located at Barber Marina in Elberta, four dinosaur statues can be seen hanging out in the trees along the marina's entrance road. The popular "Bamahenge" and "Lady in the Lake" statues are also located at Barber Marina.
6. Calera - Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum
The Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum is the official railroad museum of Alabama. It features operating trains, two restored depots, an indoor collection of railroad artifacts, and an outdoor collection of railroad cars, locomotives and cabooses. Admission to this museum is free.
7. Muscle Shoals - FAME Recording Studios
A large number of hits by artists such as Aretha Franklin, Wilson Pickett and Little Richard have been recorded at FAME Recording Studios. This studio still records today and offers tours.
8. Summerdale - Alligator Alley
Alligator Alley is an alligator farm featuring over 450 rescued alligators. At this unique attraction, visitors will have the opportunity to feed and hold an alligator.
9. Monroeville - Old Courthouse Museum
Harper Lee, author of the famous novel "To Kill a Mockingbird," grew up in Monroeville. The Old Monroe County Courthouse was recreated for the famous courtroom scenes in the novel's film version. Fans from all over the world travel to Monroeville to visit the Old Monroe County Courthouse (Old Courthouse Museum).
10. Wetumpka - Wind Creek Casino & Hotel
The Wind Creek Casino & Hotel is operated by the Poarch Band of Creek Indians. Whether it's staying in their luxurious hotel, playing on their game floor, or enjoying fine dining, the Wind Creek Casino & Hotel offers a fun time for everyone.
Are there any other small Alabama towns or cities with popular tourist attractions not on this list? Let us know in the comments below!
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