Here in Alabama, there are many magical places waiting to be discovered. From fairytale castles to whimsical trails, you never know what you’ll come across while exploring our great state. Listed below is a fairytale road trip that’ll lead you to some of the most magical places in Alabama. Because it’s only 423 miles long (that’s 846 miles round trip) and has an estimated drive time of 7 hours and 13 minutes (14 hours and 26 minutes round trip), you may be able to complete this road trip in one weekend. Ready to go?

Now, let’s get started:

google maps
To help you on your way, use this Google Maps link for driving directions.
1. Dismals Canyon - Phil Campbell
Dismals Canyon, 901 County Rd 8, Phil Campbell, AL 35581, USA
google/Ryan Beverly
Our first stop is Dismals Canyon. As one of the most beautiful fairytale places in Alabama, it is filled with lush greenery, moss-covered boulders, and beautiful waterfalls. It also happens to be home to rare insects called dismalites. In fact, it's one of the few places in the world to find them.
2. Delano Park - Decatur
Delano Drive, Delano Dr, Belvedere Park, GA 30032, USA
facebook/Delano Park Conservancy
Our next stop is Delano Park. Delano Park covers nearly 30 acres and is considered one of Alabama's most beautiful parks. If features a variety of fairytale-like sculptures such as Mr. Bullfrog, Swamp Rabbit, Dragonfly, and more. This may be your favorite stop along this best road trip in Alabama!

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3. Ave Maria Grotto - Cullman
Ave Maria Grotto, 1600 St Bernard Dr, Cullman, AL 35055, USA
google/Kimberly S
After a short drive, we'll arrive at Ave Maria Grotto, which covers four acres. Ave Maria Grotto is a beautiful rock garden that features 125 miniature reproductions of famous religious structures. It's one of the Southeast's most popular attractions and one of the most magical places in Alabama.
4. Orr Park/Tinglewood Trail - Montevallo
Orr Park, 277 Park Dr, Montevallo, AL 35115, USA
tripadvisor/pattyp814
Our next stop is Orr Park, which is home to the Tinglewood Trail. The Tinglewood Trail features more than 30 whimsical tree carvings created by artist Tim Tingle. Everyone should experience this one-of-a-kind trail, especially children. This is on of the most whimsical fairytale places in Alabama.
5. Wilderness Park/Bamboo Forest - Prattville
Wilderness Park/Bamboo Forest, 800 Upper Kingston Rd, Prattville, AL 36067, USA
tripadvisor/Amanda S
Our next stop is Wilderness Park. This beautiful park includes a forest of towering bamboo stalks, many of which are as tall as 60 feet. Alabama is the last place you'd expect to find a bamboo forest so it's truly a wonder! You won't believe this hidden gem park in Alabama exists until you see it in person.
6. Mosher Castle - Fairhope
Storybook Castle, 457 Oak Ave, Fairhope, AL 36532, USA
flickr/NatalieMaynor
After a scenic drive to Alabama's beautiful Gulf Coast, our final stop is Mosher Castle. Mosher Castle is a whimsical fairytale castle that was designed by artist Dean Mosher (homeowner). He even added a drawbridge to this whimsical estate, which spans across a moat. You'll be enchanted by Mosher, one of the most stunning fairytale castles along the Gulf Coast.

Have you been to any of these magical places in Alabama? If so, please share your experience(s) with us in the comments along with any other fairytale places you enjoy around the state.

For more information about Mosher Castle, be sure to take a look at the following article: This Hidden Alabama Castle Looks Like Something Out Of A Fairy Tale.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Magical Places In Alabama

Melissa M. | December 04, 2022

What are some additional magical places in Alabama?

There are plenty of magical places in Alabama to visit. Here are seven everyone should see in person:

  • Bellingrath Gardens and Home in Theodore
  • Mount Cheaha in Delta
  • Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge in West Blocton
  • The Town of Spectre in Millbrook
  • DeSoto Caverns in Childersburg
  • Cathedral Caverns State Park in Woodville
  • Little River Canyon National Preserve in Fort Payne

 

For more information, check out this list of magical places in Alabama.

Are there any other fairytale castles in Alabama?

Yes, there are several fairytale castles in Alabama. Here are five to check out:

  • Sheldon Castle in Fairhope
  • Storybook Castle in Fairhope
  • The Sterling Castle in Shelby
  • Cook Castle in Fort Payne
  • Castle San Miguel in Hanceville

 

What are some of the best road trips in Alabama?

One of the most incredible ways to see the state is to take one of the best road trips in Alabama, as curated by the experts at Only In Your State. Here are seven to consider taking:

 

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