If someone has never visited Alabama, the chance of them having a negative preconceived notion is high. Due to stereotyping, whether it be on television, in books, etc., many people believe Alabama is a run-down state with nothing good to offer. This couldn’t be further from the truth. After all, our great state is nicknamed “Alabama the Beautiful” for a reason, right? Listed below are nine of Alabama’s most beautiful places. Once someone visits these nine beautiful places, they’ll have a completely different view of Alabama.
1. Gulf Coast Beaches
Most people who don't live in Alabama are surprised to learn that we have some of the finest beaches in the world. Our Gulf Coast Beaches offer miles and miles of sugar-white sand and clear-turquoise water. Because of its beautiful beaches, it's not surprising that Alabama's Gulf Coast receives countless visitors each year.
2. Dismals Canyon - Phil Campbell
Dismals Canyon is one of North Alabama's most unique outdoor attractions. It's home to rare insects called dismalites, and it's a must-visit year-round. Dismals Canyon is a true hidden gem. You can visit Dismals Canyon at 901 Hwy. 8, Phil Campbell, AL 35581.
3. Cheaha State Park - Delta
Cheaha State Park is located atop Cheaha Mountain - Alabama's highest natural point. This majestic mountain offers the most incredible views you'll ever experience, and it's a must-visit for anyone who wants to experience the beauty of Alabama from above. You can visit Cheaha State Park at 19644 AL-281, Delta, AL 36258.
4. Smith Lake
Smith Lake, which covers approximately 22,000 acres, is located in Cullman, Walker, and Winston counties. In addition to it being considered the most beautiful lake in the Southeast, it's also the third cleanest lake in the entire United States.
5. DeSoto Caverns - Childersburg
DeSoto Caverns is a series of spectacular caves and is best known as "Alabama's Big Cave." Other than its impressive stalagmites and stalactites, one of DeSoto Caverns' most unique characteristics is that it was America's first recorded cave. You can visit DeSoto Caverns at 5181 DeSoto Caverns Pkwy., Childersburg, AL 35044.
6. Perry Lakes Park - Marion
There's something hauntingly beautiful about Perry Lakes Park. This scenic park, which covers 600 acres, is a natural river bottomland that offers excellent outdoor recreation. You can visit Perry Lakes Park at AL-175, Marion, AL 36756.
7. Noccalula Falls Park - Gadsden
Noccalula Falls Park is home to Noccalula Falls - one of Alabama's most beautiful waterfalls. Plunging nearly 100 feet into a lush ravine, this waterfall is one of Alabama's most visited natural attractions. You can visit Noccalula Falls Park at 1500 Noccalula Rd, Gadsden, AL 35904.
8. Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge - West Blocton
Established in 2002, the Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge is one of America's newest National Wildlife Refuges. This scenic wildlife refuge features the world's largest stand of Cahaba lilies, which makes it one of Alabama's most unique outdoor attractions. You can visit Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge at Co Rd. 24, West Blocton, AL 35184.
9. Bellingrath Gardens and Home - Theodore
Bellingrath Gardens and Home is one of Alabama's top outdoor attractions. Covering approximately 900 acres, Bellingrath Gardens and Home features a 65-acre garden and the beautiful home of Walter and Bessie Bellingrath. This outdoor attraction, which is open year-round, is the perfect spot for an afternoon stroll. You can visit Bellingrath Gardens and Home at 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Rd., Theodore, AL 36582.
Have you visited any of these places in Alabama? If so, which ones? Also, what did you think? Please share your thoughts with us in the comments.
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