Bridgeport AlabamaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Bridgeport, Alabama.
1. Russell Cave National Monument
ANCIENT ARCHAEOLOGICAL WONDER
Russell Cave National Monument is one of the most significant archaeological sites in the southeastern United States, offering a glimpse into thousands of years of Native American history. The cave served as a shelter for early Native American populations and features educational exhibits about the cave's history in its visitor center. Visitors can explore the area through guided tours or self-guided trails that lead through lush forests where wildlife can be observed.
2. Bridgeport Railroad Depot Museum
HISTORIC RAILWAY HERITAGE
The Bridgeport Depot Museum houses an impressive collection of railroad memorabilia and local artifacts that showcase the town's rich history. Operated by the Bridgeport Area Historical Association, the museum is located on the site of the town's fourth railroad depot, which was constructed in 1917. Visitors can explore Civil War artifacts and learn about the important role the railroad played in the development of Bridgeport.
3. Siege of Bridgeport Reenactment
CIVIL WAR LIVING HISTORY
Every April, Bridgeport hosts an impressive reenactment of the Siege of Bridgeport, bringing Civil War history to life. Participants dress in period costumes and recreate the 1862 skirmish that took place in the area. Visitors can witness battle scenes, explore military camps, and learn about daily life during the Civil War era from knowledgeable historians and enthusiasts.
4. Lodge Cast Iron Factory Store
AMERICAN COOKWARE ICON
The Lodge Cast Iron Factory Store in nearby South Pittsburg offers cooking enthusiasts access to America's oldest cookware manufacturer's products. Visitors can browse an extensive selection of cast iron cookware, from classic skillets to specialized pieces, often with special discounts not available elsewhere. The store also features Lodge branded apparel, cookbook collections, and occasionally hosts cooking demonstrations using their famous cookware.
5. Bridgeport Historical Walking Tour
DOWNTOWN HERITAGE EXPLORATION
The Bridgeport Historical Walking Tour takes visitors through the charming downtown area, showcasing buildings and sites that tell the story of this small Alabama town. Historic markers throughout the route provide information about Bridgeport's development from a river crossing to an important railroad junction. The self-guided tour allows visitors to appreciate the architectural details of preserved structures while learning about local legends and historical events.
6. Tennessee River Gorge
SCENIC NATURAL WONDER
The Tennessee River Gorge near Bridgeport offers breathtaking views and outdoor recreation opportunities in what's often called 'Tennessee's Grand Canyon.' The gorge features dramatic limestone cliffs, diverse wildlife habitats, and pristine waterways perfect for boating, fishing, or wildlife watching. Visitors can access several viewpoints and hiking trails that showcase the natural beauty of this unique geological formation.
7. Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament
SPECTACULAR RELIGIOUS SANCTUARY
The Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament, located a short drive from Bridgeport, is a magnificent Catholic church and monastery complex founded by Mother Angelica of EWTN fame. The shrine's architecture was inspired by 13th-century Italian churches, featuring marble altars, gold leaf decorations, and intricate woodwork throughout its expansive grounds. Visitors of all faiths appreciate the shrine's peaceful gardens, religious gift shop, and the Castle San Miguel, which houses a collection of religious artifacts.
8. Scottsboro Boys Museum
CIVIL RIGHTS HISTORY
The Scottsboro Boys Museum documents the historic Scottsboro Boys trials of 1931, a landmark case in American civil rights history. Located in the nearby town of Scottsboro, the museum houses photographs, newspaper articles, and legal documents that tell the story of nine young African American men falsely accused of a crime. Visitors gain insight into how this case exposed racial injustice in the American legal system and helped spark the civil rights movement.
9. Unclaimed Baggage Center
LOST TREASURES SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
The Unclaimed Baggage Center in Scottsboro is the nation's only retailer of lost luggage items, offering a treasure-hunting shopping experience unlike any other. Spread across a 50,000-square-foot store, shoppers can discover everything from designer clothing and electronics to musical instruments and sports equipment at significant discounts. The store processes over a million items annually, with new merchandise appearing daily, ensuring visitors always find something unique.
10. Sauta Cave National Wildlife Refuge
BAT CONSERVATION AREA
Sauta Cave National Wildlife Refuge protects one of the largest gray bat maternity colonies in the United States, housing over 200,000 endangered bats. Visitors can witness the spectacular emergence of bats from the cave entrance at dusk during summer months, creating a natural phenomenon worth experiencing. The refuge also offers short hiking trails and wildlife observation opportunities in its protected habitat.
11. Bridgeport City Park
RIVERSIDE RECREATION SPOT
Bridgeport City Park offers locals and visitors alike a peaceful setting along the Tennessee River with facilities for outdoor recreation and gatherings. The park features picnic areas, playground equipment, and boat launch access to the river for fishing and water activities. Beautiful shade trees and river views make this a popular spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts throughout the warmer months.
12. Stevenson Railroad Depot Museum
CIVIL WAR RAILWAY HISTORY
The Stevenson Railroad Depot Museum occupies a restored 1872 depot building, showcasing the area's rich railroad and Civil War history. During the Civil War, Stevenson was a strategic railroad junction that both Union and Confederate forces fought to control, a story told through the museum's exhibits and artifacts. The museum's collection includes vintage photographs, railroad equipment, and memorabilia that highlight the importance of rail transportation to the region's development.
13. Lake Guntersville State Park
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE PARADISE
Lake Guntersville State Park, a short drive from Bridgeport, offers 6,000 acres of natural beauty and recreational opportunities centered around Alabama's largest lake. Visitors can enjoy activities including hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and eagle watching, with 36 miles of trails ranging from easy lakeside paths to challenging mountain routes. The park's amenities include a resort lodge, restaurant with panoramic lake views, campground, and beach areas perfect for family outings.
14. Walls of Jericho
DRAMATIC NATURAL AMPHITHEATER
The Walls of Jericho is a dramatic natural amphitheater featuring 200-foot limestone walls, waterfalls, and a disappearing stream located near the Alabama-Tennessee border. Hikers can access this geological wonder via a challenging 6-mile round-trip trail that descends 1,000 feet into a forested canyon. The site is particularly impressive after rainfall when water cascades through the unique rock formations, creating a spectacular display of nature's power.
15. Chattanooga River Cruise
SCENIC WATERWAY JOURNEY
Chattanooga River Cruises offer a unique perspective of the Tennessee River Gorge from the water, with departures just a short drive from Bridgeport. Passengers enjoy narrated tours highlighting the area's history, wildlife, and geological features while cruising past spectacular scenery on vintage-style riverboats. Dining cruises are available featuring regional cuisine, live entertainment, and unforgettable sunset views of Lookout Mountain and the surrounding landscape.