There are many wonderful places located throughout Alabama, some of which are highly underrated. Unfortunately, many places don’t receive the same amount of attention others do. The attention that many do receive is mostly from locals, not out-of-towners. Listed below are 12 underrated places in Alabama that every out-of-towner should check out.
1. Bellingrath Gardens and Home - Theodore, Alabama
Bellingrath Gardens and Home is 65 acres and offers year-round beauty. The Bellingrath Rose Garden, Mirror Lake, Live Oak Plaza and the Great Lawn are a few unique areas of the gardens. (12401 Bellingrath Gardens Rd.)
2. Alabama's Gulf Coast Beaches
Even though many Alabamians vacation on the Gulf Coast, several people who live out of state don't realize how great our beaches truly are. Alabama's Gulf Coast offers 32 miles of beautiful white-sand beaches and clear waters, and it's the perfect place to take an out-of-towner who's looking for some fun in the sun.
3. Cathedral Caverns State Park - Woodville, AL
Cathedral Caverns is home to some of the most beautiful formations Mother Nature has ever created, including "Goliath," one of the largest stalagmites in the world, measuring 45 ft tall and 243 ft in circumference. (637 Cave Rd.)
4. Little River Canyon National Preserve - Fort Payne, Alabama
Located on top of Lookout Mountain, near Fort Payne, Little River Canyon National Preserve is a beautiful area that protects Little River. Its main attraction is Little River Falls, pictured above. Little River Falls is one of Alabama's most visited waterfalls. (4322 Little River Trail NE)
5. Vulcan Park & Museum - Birmingham, Alabama
Vulcan, the world's largest cast iron statue (56 ft tall), is the main attraction at Vulcan Park & Museum. Vulcan provides a beautiful view of the city of Birmingham. (1701 Valley View Dr.)
6. Eufaula, Alabama
Eufaula, Alabama is well known for its beautiful antebellum mansions. It's also home to Lake Eufaula, the "Bass Fishing Capital of the World."
7. Railroad Park - Birmingham, Alabama
Railroad Park, an amazing 19-acre park, celebrates the industrial and artistic heritage of "The Magic City." This unique park lies south of the Norfolk Southern and CSX rail lines through downtown Birmingham. (1600 1st Ave.)
8. Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge - Decatur, Alabama
The Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge is 35,000 acres in size and is located along the Tennessee River. Established in 1938, this wildlife refuge provides a habitat for wintering and migrating birds in the eastern United States. (3121 Visitor Center Rd.)
9. Monte Sano State Park - Huntsville, Alabama
Monte Sano State Park is well known for its fresh air, amazing views and abundant mineral springs. This park's hiking and biking trails are beautiful. (5105 Nolen Ave. SE)
10. Miss Myra's Pit Bar-B-Q - Birmingham, Alabama
The barbecue served at Miss Myra’s Pit Bar-B-Q doesn't disappoint. As a matter of fact, it's some of the best barbecue in Alabama. The locals eat here, so that right there says a lot. After finishing your meal, don’t forget to get a slice of their delicious pie. (3278 Cahaba Heights Rd.)
11. Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo - Gulf Shores, Alabama
When it comes to zoos in Alabama, most people are only familiar with the Birmingham Zoo and Montgomery Zoo. There's another great zoo in Alabama worth visiting; the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. At this zoo, visitors will have the opportunity to get close views of more than 500 exotic animals, including lions, bears, tigers, leopards, wolves, etc. For out-of-towners who love animals, this is an attraction that shouldn't be missed. (1204 Gulf Shores Pkwy)
12. Oak Mountain State Park - Pelham, Alabama
At 9,940 acres, Oak Mountain State Park is Alabama's largest state park. Mountain biking and hiking are two of the most popular activities at this park. Oak Mountain State Park's beautiful scenery is what makes it an unforgettable experience for visitors. (200 Terrace Dr.)
What other wonderful places in Alabama do you consider to be underrated? Share them with us in the comments below!
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