Even though California is widely known as the "Movie-Making Capital of the World", many films have also been shot right here in our great state. There are so many more I could list, but here are a few of my favorites:
1.) 42 - Released in 2013, and starring Chadwick Boseman as MLB legend Jackie Robinson, this movie had scenes filmed in the Birmingham area at Rickwood Field.
2.) Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan - Released in 2006, and starring Sacha Baron Cohen as Borat, this movie had filming locations all over the Birmingham area.
3.) Tom and Huck - Released in 1995, and starring Jonathan Taylor Thomas as Tom Sawyer and Brad Renfro as Huck Finn, this movie was mostly filmed in the small historic town of Mooresville.
4.) Sweet Home Alabama - Released in 2002, and starring Reese Witherspoon, Josh Lucas and Patrick Dempsey, this film is still one of Witherspoon's biggest hits and even though the majority of the movie was filmed in Georgia, the part where she can be seen driving past plantation homes when she returns to Alabama was actually filmed in Eufala.
5.) Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby - Released in 2006, and starring Will Ferrell and John C. Reilly, this movie was of course partially filmed at Talladega Superspeedway. The name of the title speaks for itself!
6.) Space Camp - Released in 1986, and starring Kate Capshaw, Lea Thompson and Kelly Preston, this movie was inspired by the U.S. Space Camp in Huntsville and was partially filmed in Huntsville.
7.) Selma - Released in 2014, and starring David Oyelowo as Martin Luther King Jr., Selma was of course filmed in Selma. Some of it was also filmed in Montgomery. Oh, and Oprah also produced it.
8.) Mississippi Burning - Released in 1988, the town square scenes were filmed in Lafayette. This film stars Gene Hackman and Willem Dafoe as FBI agents who investigate missing civil rights activists.
10.) Failure to Launch - Released in 2006, and starring Matthew McConaughey and Sarah Jessica Parker, this movie was partially filmed in the Gadsden/Leesburg areas. Remember the rock climbing scene? That was filmed at Cherokee Rock Village, near Leesburg.
11.) To Kill a Mockingbird - Released in 1962, and starring Gregory Peck as Atticus Finch, this movie was partially filmed in Monroeville - author Harper Lee's hometown.
12.) Friday the 13th Part VII (The New Blood) - Released in 1988, and starring Kane Hodder as Jason Voorhies, this movie used Byrne's Lake (near Stockton) as one of the major filming locations.
13.) Muscle Shoals - Released in 2013, Muscle Shoals is a documentary that celebrates Rick Hall, the founder of FAME Studios in Muscle Shoals, Alabama. Many different filming locations were used, but the main Alabama locations include: Huntsville, Florence, Sheffield, Tuscumbia, and of course Muscle Shoals.
14.) Close Encounters of the Third Kind - Released in 1977, this UFO blockbuster was partially filmed in Mobile and stars Richard Dreyfuss. Oh, and it's also directed by Steven Spielberg.
16.) Big Fish - Released in 2003, and starring Ewan McGregor, this film was mostly filmed in Alabama - specifically in the areas of Prattville, Wetumpka, Montgomery and Tallassee. Oh, and it's of course one of Tim Burton's directorial masterpieces!
I'm sure we'll continue to see more and more films shot here in Alabama as the years go by. Especially since the film industry keeps getting bigger and bigger! Do you have a favorite movie that was filmed in Alabama?
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
For a local perspective on the top tourist attractions in Alabama, we asked our Only In Alabama readers for their top picks. Their must-sees around the state range from the raw beauty of natural wonders to the echoes of history in iconic landmarks and museums. These picks invite you to learn about where we've come from and how it's shaped where we are today and consider how we're positioned for the future.
This top Native American heritage site is 13 miles south of Tuscaloosa on the Black Warrior River. Once America's largest city north of Mexico, what is known today as Moundville got the nickname of “The Big Apple of the 14th Century” from National Geographic. The park preserves 29 earthen mounds that once provided elevated platforms for ancient structures. Today, it offers panoramic views, a museum, a nature trail, picnic spots, and a campground.
2. Dismals Canyon National Natural Landmark, Phil Campbell
Meet North America's exclusive glow worms at Dismals Canyon, a hidden gem with waterfalls, lush landscapes, and the Dismalites. The tiny bioluminescent creatures make the rock walls seem to sparkle at nightfall. The canyon was home to Native Americans 10,000 years ago and also served as a refuge for outlaws Jesse James and Aaron Burr.
See one of the state's tallest waterfalls, DeSoto Falls in Mentone, Alabama. The falls are part of DeSoto State Park - both named after Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto - and are situated atop Lookout Mountain. Flowing year-round, the waterfall is accessed by a paved path from the DeSoto Falls Picnic Area just off Lookout Mountain Parkway.
Marvel at one of the world's largest caves and other wonders of Cathedral Caverns in Cathedral Caverns State Park. The cave's colossal entrance, measuring 25 feet high and 126 feet wide, sets the stage for an awe-inspiring underground adventure. This underworld is otherworldly with stunning stalactites and stalagmites. The setting includes Goliath, one of the world's largest stalagmites.
Experiencing the story of Helen Keller will inspire and astound you at her birthplace and home, Ivy Green in Tuscumbia. Known as America's "First Lady of Courage," Keller became the first deaf-blind student to graduate from college. You can tour the 1820 home, which is filled with period antiques and interpretive displays. On the grounds, you'll see the well-pump where Keller had her breakthrough moment with teacher Anne Sullivan.
Take a giant leap into Alabama's space legacy at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville. Engage in exhibits and roam among rockets as you discover the captivating stories of space exploration. From astronaut simulators to interactive displays, visitors get a taste of what it’s like to embark on a mission themselves. For a greater value, you might consider a Huntsville & North Alabama Multi-Attraction Pass which covers admission here and at several other excellent attractions around the region.
Pay a visit to Vulcan, the world's largest cast-iron statue, which is 56 feet tall and weighs over 100,000 pounds. Crafted by sculptor Giuseppe Moretti in the early 1900s, Vulcan symbolizes Alabama's iron production supremacy. Perched on Red Mountain with a 124-foot pedestal, the statue overlooks Birmingham, providing breathtaking views. Explore the statue's significance to the city’s history at Vulcan Center. You can also get great city views along the 1.7-mile Vulcan Trail.
Sightseeing hits the peak at Cheaha Mountain, Alabama's pinnacle at 2,413 feet. The mountain is located within Alabama's oldest state park since 1933, Cheaha State Park. Surrounding the park are Talladega National Forest's nearly 400,000 lush acres. Campers and hikers will love this area, which has great amenities and trails with stunning scenery and jaw-dropping overlooks.
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9. Tuskegee Institute National Historic Site, Tuskegee
See where Booker T. Washington established a long-lasting legacy in the Tuskegee Institute. The site is now home to Tuskegee University, a private and historically Black land-grant university. Washington founded his institute here in 1881 and recruited luminaries like George Washington Carver to teach. Carver's many agricultural innovations elevated the institute's stature and benefited the state economy. Note that while Washington's home, The Oaks, and the George Washington Carver Museum are closed until 2025 for renovation. Until then, you may still explore the open park grounds and tour the Tuskegee University campus, a designated historic district with many student-built buildings designed by Robert R. Taylor, the first African-American MIT graduate.
Take a powerful journey through Montgomery's civil rights history by visiting sites along the US Civil Rights Trail. Stops include The Legacy Center near Riverfront Park, Court Square, where many important events occurred, including Rosa Parks boarding the bus the fateful day she refused to give up her seat. People especially appreciate the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church, Dexter Parsonage Museum, and Martin Luther King Jr. home. The Civil Rights Memorial Center is a must, as is the Freedom Rides Museum. Consider purchasing and downloading a self-guided walking tour to enhance your experience.
Explore Fort Morgan, a renowned masonry star fort completed in 1834 and once a pinnacle of military architecture. This National Historic Landmark guarded Mobile Bay for 110 years and continues to be a stopover for migrating birds. Visitors can tour the grounds, artillery batteries, a military history museum, and find unique items in the gift shop. The site is accessible to people with physical disabilities.
Step aboard the USS Alabama, a 35,000-ton South Dakota class battleship commissioned in 1942. Once home to a crew of 2,500 brave Americans, this historic vessel played a crucial role in both the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans during World War II before retiring in 1962. Schoolchildren raised money to save it from being scrapped, and it found a new home in Mobile Bay. The ship has operated as a World War II museum since 1964. Recognized as a National Historic Landmark in 1986, it draws thousands of visitors annually. This attraction is one of several available using the Mobile Area Multi-Attraction Pass.
The white-sand beaches of Alabama’s Gulf Coast are a hands-down, must-do, according to many of our readers (and seconded by this writer). Our main beach towns are Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Enjoy sun-soaked relexation along turquoise waters. Savor fresh seafood and make new memories at the many family-friendly attractions.
Uncover the poignant history of Horseshoe Bend near Alexander City, where a decisive battle on March 27, 1814, ended the Creek Indian War. Tennessee militia, U.S. Infantry, and 600 Cherokee and Creek Indians secured victory, leading to the Trail of Tears and the forced relocation of Native Americans to Oklahoma. Explore this solemn chapter at Horseshoe Bend National Military Park, where the 2.2-mile Horseshoe Bend Trail guides you through the battlefield and along the Tallapoosa River.
You'll step all the way back to the state's earliest days at Old Cahawba, Alabama's first permanent capital from 1820 to 1826. Now an abandoned town in Dallas County, it's embraced as "Alabama's Most Famous Ghost Town." Operating as Old Cahawba Archaeological Park, this historic site draws visitors yearly to explore the remnants of a bygone era.
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Which of these must-see destinations have you visited? Do you agree they are the top tourist attractions in Alabama? We'd love to hear about your experiences visiting any of these places. And most definitely let us know what other spots you'd add.
