Here in Alabama, we’re fortunate to be surrounded by so many great things. From natural bridges and scenic canyons, to historic caves and incredible sculptures, Alabama is home to many things you won’t find anywhere else in the world. And some of these things are so hidden that only the locals know about them. Listed below are 10 of Alabama’s little known places that we consider to be true treasures.
Rosenbaum House – Florence, Alabama
Built in 1939, the Rosenbaum House is the only home in Alabama that was designed by famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright. It’s also the only Wright-designed home that’s open to the public in the Southeast.
Natural Bridge – Natural Bridge, Alabama
Natural Bridge, located within Natural Bridge Park, was formed more than 200 million years ago. Measuring 148 feet long, this natural sandstone bridge is the longest natural bridge east of the Rockies.
Ave Maria Grotto – Cullman, Alabama
Ave Maria Grotto is a beautiful four-acre park that includes a garden setting for approximately 125 miniatures of famous religious structures.
Dismals Canyon – Phil Campbell, Alabama
Located within the tiny rural town of Phil Campbell is Dismals Canyon, which is a sandstone gorge that’s part of an 85-acre nature preserve. This beautiful nature spot is one of the few places where you’ll find insects called dismalites. Dismals Canyon is also home to two beautiful waterfalls: Secret Falls and Rainbow Falls.
Tinglewood Carvings – Montevallo, Alabama
Located within Montevallo’s Orr Park are the famous Tinglewood Carvings. These carvings, which consist of 30+ faces and animals, were carved into dead cedar trees by artist Tim Tingle. People of all ages enjoy strolling along Orr Park’s Tinglewood Trail to view these whimsical creations.
What’s on 2nd? – Birmingham, Alabama
From books and antiques, to vintage toys and jewelry, What’s on Second sells just about anything you can possibly think of. This unique store is one of Birmingham’s true hidden gems.
Coon Dog Cemetery – Cherokee, Alabama
The Coon Dog Cemetery was established in 1937 after the first dog, Troop, was buried onsite. This special cemetery only allows for the burial of coonhounds, and it’s the only cemetery of its kind in the world.
Bangor Cave – Blount County, Alabama
In the late 1930s, Bangor Cave was home to the Bangor Cafe Club – America’s first underground nightclub. During the year and a half it was open, the Bangor Cafe Club was one of the most glamorous places in the South.
Bamahenge – Elberta, Alabama
Bamahenge, which is located at Barber Marina, is an exact replica of the world-famous Stonehenge. Like Stonehenge, Bamahenge measures 21 feet tall and 104 feet across. It’s also aligned with the summer solstice. If you’ve always wanted to see Stonehenge, but it’s not an option, Bamahenge is the next best thing. It’s a truly remarkable structure!
Wildflower Cafe – Mentone, Alabama
Nestled away on a mountaintop in the scenic town of Mentone is the Wildflower Cafe. This local cafe serves up delicious gourmet dishes in a casual setting, and it’s also been voted “Best Cafe in the State” by Alabama Magazine.
source: onlyinyourstate.com
