If you take a look at a list of popular travel destinations in the USA it is unlikely that you are going to see Alabama at the top of any of them, which is actually a shame because this state is awesome for travelers. I first visited Alabama with my colleague Richard Radcliff Trice, he had invited me up to his home state for Labor Day weekend a couple of years ago. I didn’t really know what to expect but the trip was absolutely amazing and I would urge anyone to make the trip. If you do decide to follow this advice, here are the top 5 things to do when you get there.
Neversink Pit
Not only does this place have a really cool name, it is also a brilliant place to spend an afternoon. This is a natural wonder which is kind of in-between a sinkhole and a cave. This geological miracle sinks down a massive 16 stories, and as you go down you will see waterfalls cascading into the cavity, with lots of amazing flora greeting you every step of the way. If you like climbing and rappelling this is a must visit spot.
Spectre Set Ruins
The fictional town of Spectre was built for the movie Big Fish and once the film was wrapped, they left this weird town exactly as they had built it. The town is close to the Alabama river and walking through here is like visiting a ghost town. Naturally many of the buildings are now dilapidated but it makes for some awesome photo opportunities.
The Museum of Wonder
There are many museums in Alabama but my favorite of the lot is the museum of wonder, a very weird place which is perfect for anyone who loves folk art and odd things. The museum was set up by a former taxidermist, which may give you some insight into what you’ll find here. Animal skeletons, old maps, weird things in bottles, strange roadsigns and movie memorabilia are just some examples of the strange things which you can find in the bizarre museum.
U.S. Space and Rocket Center
NASA actually has a space center down here in Alabama and it is a super cool place for you to visit. The center hold the largest collection of rockets in the world and hundreds of pieces of space memorabilia. Not only is this a great place to visit for the items on show, it is also a place where you can learn so much about the space race and how we are able to propel ourselves into space.
Fort Morgan
Fort Morgan was battle post which was built in 1819 and still stands today. This fort was a stronghold for many during war time and visiting it will take you back in time to when there was danger everywhere. This is a sobering trip which is well worth your time.
Don’t be sleeping on Alabama, it is a very cool place to visit.