Alabama is filled with many strange, yet unique, places. From quirky animal attractions to whimsical park trails, there's really no telling what you'll stumble upon while driving through the state. Listed below is a road trip we've mapped out that'll lead you to seven of Alabama's strangest, yet unique, places.
As you can see, the total distance for this road trip is 1,037 miles, with an estimated drive time of 17 hours and 55 minutes. You can view the Google map here, which includes detailed directions. This road trip begins and ends in Fackler at the Rock Zoo, but you may begin from wherever you'd like.
1. Rock Zoo - Fackler
The Rock Zoo, which is located right outside of Scottsboro, has approximately two dozen animals that have been created out of limestone and colorful paints. This is the only known rock zoo in Alabama, and kids absolutely love it!
(3215 Co Rd 32)
2. Butch Anthony's Museum of Wonder - Seale
Butch Anthony's Museum of Wonder, which started out as a taxidermy shop and artifact room, is filled with a large collection of art, artifacts and antiques. When you see some of the items, you won't believe your eyes. They're some of the strangest things you'll ever see. If you love discovering unique things, you'll definitely want to check out this one-of-a-kind place. Butch Anthony's Museum of Wonder is open by appointment only. For an appointment, contact Butch by email at [email protected]. (41 Poorhouse Rd)
3. Barber Marina Dinosaurs - Elberta
Tucked away in the wooded area near Barber Marina is a group of four life-size dinosaur statues. These remarkable statues were built for billionaire George Barber and have become a popular tourist attraction. (26986 Fish Trap Rd)
4. Pickens County Courthouse - Carrollton
The Pickens County Courthouse is best known for its "Face in the Courthouse Window." According to local legend, Henry Wells, a former slave who was freed after the Civil War, was wrongly accused of arson. While a lynching mob searched for him, he escaped to the attic of the courthouse. Henry peeked out the window and let the crowd of people know that if they kill him, he'll haunt their lives forever. During that moment, lightning struck and etched his face into the window glass. The mob eventually caught up with Henry and lynched him. His face can still be seen in the courthouse window. (20 Phoenix Ave)
5. Tinglewood Trail - Montevallo
While strolling the Tinglewood Trail, which is located in Orr Park, you'll notice many intricate tree carvings that were created by Tim Tingle - a local artist. A few of his carving designs include animals, wizards, dragons and whimsical faces. This trail is truly unique! (277 Park Dr)
6. Joe Minter's African Village in America - Birmingham
Over the years, folk artist Joe Minter has been collecting pieces of scrap and junk to create one-of-a-kind art. He's displayed his creations all over his yard as a tribute to African-Americans. Mr. Minter offers free tours during daylight hours if he's home. You can call this number to verify: 205-322-7370. (931 Nassau Ave SW)
7. Grave of Miss Baker - Huntsville
Located at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center is the "Grave of Miss Baker." Miss Baker was the first animal (squirrel monkey) from the United States to fly in space and come back alive. Many people visit her grave yearly, and several of these visitors leave her a banana. (1 Tranquility Base)
Have you been to any of these strange places? If so, what did you think? What other strange places should be added to this road trip? Share your thoughts with us!
For a closer look at Orr Park's Tinglewood Trail, be sure to check out our previous article: There’s Something Incredible Hiding Inside This Alabama Nature Preserve.
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