Alabama has a reputation for sports, family, hunting, hospitality, and people who have a southern accent. You can flip to any local broadcast and find talking heads, amazing touchdowns, and no small number of sky cam shots showing traffic, weather and the occasional pigeon selfie. Even our state wildlife shows only seem to talk about hunting and fishing.

But Alabama has a lot of unknown beauty to it. Our landscape changes from sandy, white shores at our state’s southernmost tip to forested mountains and deep caverns at our northern border.

If you’re looking for something you’ve probably never seen before, you can find it in Alabama.

1

Dowtown Montgomery

Downtown Montgomery is the epicenter of Alabama state politics. You’ll find the state house nestled on a hill at the end of Dexter Avenue, clearly visible from the Court Square Fountain in the middle of the downtown scene.

2

Mt. Cheaha

With a view from 2,407 feet above sea level, Mt. Cheaha is the highest point in Alabama. It might not be as tall as other mountains through the Appalachian Range, but the views are spectacular nonetheless.

3

Lake Tuskegee

Tuskegee, AL has a rich African American history, with roots in the Civil War, World War II, and the Civil Rights Movement. The town is home to Tuskegee University, the famed Tuskegee Airmen, and scientist George Washington Carver. The city lake sits quietly on the eastern side of town, a short walk away from the downtown hustle and bustle.

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4

Cathedral Caverns

If you’re looking for caves, Alabama’s northeast is the place to be. Cathedral Caverns, located in Woodville, AL is one of many winding, expansive cave networks you’ll find in this area.

5

Jordan Dam

Located on the Coosa River north of Montgomery, AL, the Jordan Dam is one of many great fishing and birdwatching outlets across the state.

6

Old Live Oak Cemetery

Selma, AL is a landmark city for the Civil Rights Movement. While the Edmund Pettus Bridge and Brown Chapel A.M.E. are big highlights, Old Live Oak Cemetery — the final resting place of several U.S. soldiers and civil servants — sits quietly along Dallas Ave / 22 West.

7

Gulf Shores Beachfront

A stalwart retreat for Alabamians far and wide, Gulf Shores, AL is the state’s little slice of paradise. White, sandy beaches run along the waterline, spurring Alabama tourism in the summer months.

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8

New and Old Buildings

Landscapes and caves aren’t all there is to see in Alabama. Tour any city or town and you’re likely to find new and old architecture. Cities are often intermingled with red brick masonry seated beside new steel and historic churches.

9

Trees

Alabama has no shortage of forests and thickets. Fall in the state can be stunning and Spanish moss, a rare feature outside of the Southeast, is abundant on older trees.

10

The Lake Lighthouse

While traveling through this state, you’re sure to find some oddities and rare, scenic gems. This lighthouse replica sits beside an inland lake near the center of the state.