Highland Lake AlabamaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Highland Lake, Alabama.
1. Highland Lake
SCENIC MOUNTAIN LAKE RETREAT
Highland Lake is a picturesque 257-acre lake with 15 miles of shoreline nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. The lake provides recreational opportunities such as fishing, swimming, boating, and camping for both residents and visitors. Both locals and tourists share a love of the natural beauty of this mountain lake community which features abundant wildlife and beautiful flora and fauna.
2. Bellew Park
LAKESIDE RECREATION AREA
Bellew Park features a lakeside gazebo available for event rental, making it perfect for small gatherings and ceremonies. The park includes a playground for children and a walking trail for exercise enthusiasts. This serene park setting offers beautiful views of Highland Lake and serves as a community gathering place.
3. Highland Lake Fall Festival
ANNUAL COMMUNITY CELEBRATION
The Highland Lake Fall Festival is held annually during the second week in October, bringing together residents and visitors. The festival features free food, games, and contests for all ages to enjoy. This community event showcases the small-town charm and friendly atmosphere that Highland Lake is known for.
4. The Ridge Adventure Park
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE DESTINATION
The Ridge Adventure Park offers thrilling 4WD, ATV and off-road tours for adventure seekers near Highland Lake. The park also provides hiking and camping tours for those looking to explore the natural beauty of the area. Visitors consistently rate this attraction highly, making it a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
5. Vulcan Park and Museum
HISTORIC IRON STATUE
Vulcan Park and Museum features the world's largest cast iron statue, standing as a symbol of Birmingham's industrial heritage. The park offers panoramic views of the Birmingham metropolitan area from its observation deck. Visitors can learn about the region's history through interactive exhibits and educational programs at the museum.
6. Collinsville Trade Day Flea Market
ECLECTIC SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
The Collinsville Trade Day Flea Market is a popular shopping destination located about 65 kilometers from Highland Lake. Shoppers can browse through various vendors selling everything from antiques and collectibles to fresh produce and handcrafted items. The market creates a vibrant atmosphere where visitors can hunt for unique treasures and interact with local sellers.
7. Clarkson Covered Bridge
HISTORIC WOODEN BRIDGE
Clarkson Covered Bridge is a historic wooden bridge that dates back to the 19th century, offering visitors a glimpse into Alabama's past. The picturesque structure spans the Crooked Creek and is surrounded by a beautiful park area with picnic facilities. Photography enthusiasts particularly enjoy capturing the bridge's rustic charm and the peaceful natural setting.
8. Coolidge Park
RIVERSIDE URBAN PARK
Coolidge Park is a popular riverside attraction featuring an antique carousel, interactive water fountains, and green spaces for recreation. The park sits along the Tennessee River and offers stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, people-watching, and various events held throughout the year.
9. Cheekwood
BOTANICAL GARDEN ESTATE
Cheekwood is a magnificent botanical garden and historic estate featuring beautifully maintained gardens with diverse plant collections. The estate includes a museum housed in a 1930s Georgian-style mansion displaying fine art and decorative pieces. Visitors are drawn to the singing birds, blooming flowers, and the overall natural beauty of this expansive 55-acre property.
10. Von Braun Center
MULTI-PURPOSE EVENT VENUE
The Von Braun Center is a versatile event venue hosting concerts, sporting events, trade shows, and theatrical performances throughout the year. Located about 95 kilometers from Highland Lake, this center serves as a cultural hub for northern Alabama. Visitors appreciate the diverse range of activities and events available at this modern facility.
11. Little River Canyon
NATURAL WONDER PRESERVE
Little River Canyon is one of the deepest canyon systems east of the Mississippi, offering breathtaking views and outdoor recreation opportunities. The canyon features dramatic waterfalls, crystal-clear streams, and diverse forest ecosystems for visitors to explore. Hiking trails of varying difficulties allow adventurers to experience the natural beauty and geological wonders of this national preserve.
12. Noccalula Falls Park
MAJESTIC WATERFALL SETTING
Noccalula Falls Park features a spectacular 90-foot waterfall cascading over dramatic rock formations in a picturesque gorge. The park includes botanical gardens, hiking trails, camping facilities, and a pioneer village showcasing historical structures. Visitors can explore the unique pathway that leads behind the waterfall for an unforgettable perspective of this natural wonder.
13. Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum
WORLD-CLASS MOTORCYCLE COLLECTION
The Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum houses the world's largest collection of motorcycles with over 1,600 vintage and modern motorcycles and race cars. The five-story museum showcases these vehicles as works of art in a state-of-the-art facility spanning 144,000 square feet. Adjacent to the museum is a world-class 2.38-mile racetrack where visitors might catch practice sessions or racing events throughout the year.
14. Birmingham Civil Rights Institute
CULTURAL HERITAGE MUSEUM
The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute is a cultural and educational research center that promotes understanding of civil rights history and its contemporary relevance. The institute features powerful exhibits documenting the civil rights movement, with a particular focus on Birmingham's pivotal role. Visitors gain insights into the struggle for human rights through interactive displays, artifacts, and oral histories from those who experienced this transformative period in American history.
15. Rickwood Caverns State Park
UNDERGROUND NATURAL WONDER
Rickwood Caverns State Park features an amazing underground limestone cave system with colorful formations that have developed over millions of years. Guided tours take visitors through the illuminated caverns where they can observe stalactites, stalagmites, and underground pools. The park also offers swimming facilities, hiking trails, and camping options for a complete outdoor experience.