Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures
Are you tired of typical tourist spots in Alabama and looking for a wacky and offbeat vacation experience? Then, pack your bags and head to the unheralded destinations in Alabama. These destinations are the perfect blend of mystery, beauty, and fun that will make your vacation truly unique.
The Unclaimed Baggage Center
Located in Scottsboro, the Unclaimed Baggage Center is an oddity that cannot be found anywhere other than Alabama. It is a massive thrift store that sells lost or unclaimed baggage items from airlines around the world. Items can range from lost wedding dresses to bizarre souvenirs brought back by travelers. You never know what you might find in this store, making it an exciting and entertaining scavenger hunt for all ages.
The World’s Largest Cast Iron Statue
Greet Big Boy in Birmingham, Alabama, one of the world’s largest cast iron statues. This statue stands at 55 feet tall and weighs 35,000 pounds, making it an epitome of strength. The statue served as a symbol for the now-defunct Big Boy Restaurant chain, and although the restaurant is no more, the statue continues to capture the attention of tourists and locals alike.
The Ave Maria Grotto
The Ave Maria Grotto is an unexpected European-inspired destination located in Cullman, Alabama. This destination is a 4-acre park, home to over 125 miniature replicas of famous landmarks, such as the Leaning Tower of Pisa or the Eiffel Tower. While it might sound whimsical or even a little silly, the Ave Maria Grotto is a great educational experience, as the replicas are meticulously crafted with detailed accuracy.
The Space and Rocket Center
Alabama plays a vital role in space exploration in America, and the Space and Rocket Center is a testament to that fact. Located in Huntsville, the center houses numerous exhibitions and displays primarily focused on the evolution of space technology. You can access various simulation experiences, such as walking on the moon, and an array of other fascinating, space-oriented experiences that will feed your curiosity and love for space.
The Goat Island Brewing
If you are a beer lover, do not forget to stop by the Goat Island Brewing, tucked away in the back streets of downtown Cullman. This microbrewery offers a cozy ambiance and unique beer flavors that can satiate the experimental beer fanatic. You can choose to opt for classic beer flavors or experiment with something a bit more out-there, such as a chocolate-flavored beer.
The Unclaimed Baggage Center Museum of Lost Frocks
For the fashion enthusiasts out there, the Unclaimed Baggage Center Museum of Lost Frocks is a one-of-a-kind experience that should not be missed. This mini-museum holds a collection of memorable garments that were not claimed in lost luggage. One can spot some notable pieces, such as Princess Diana’s ball gown or a dressing gown worn by Queen Victoria.
The Avenue of the Giants
If you are looking for a scenic drive amid nature, then Alabama’s Avenue of the Giants should be on your places-to-visit list. This is a scenic drive that takes you through towering redwood forests, with trees soaring as high as 350 feet. Not only will you witness the grandeur of nature, but you can also learn about the local history of this iconic destination by taking a guided tour.
In conclusion, Alabama offers a host of exciting and unusual destinations for tourists seeking something more than the typical tourist attractions. From giant statues to mini-statues, space exhibits to beer, lost luggage to lost frocks, and towering redwoods to scenic drives – Alabama has it all. So, book your tickets and set out on an adventure to explore the unheralded side of Alabama.