Top Places to See When Driving from Athens, Alabama to Vernon, Alabama

Taking a road trip from Athens, Alabama, to Vernon, Alabama can be a fantastic way to experience the beautiful scenery of the state. The drive will take you through rolling hills, rural landscapes, and charming small towns that will leave you breathless. Along the way, there are various attractions worth exploring. Here are some of the top spots you shouldn’t miss.

The Best Places to Visit

1. Alabama Veterans Museum and Archives

Located in Athens, the Alabama Veterans Museum and Archives is an exciting place for history buffs. The museum highlights the military service of Alabama veterans and offers various exhibits that provide a glimpse of the state’s military history. The museum boasts an extensive collection of military artifacts, including uniforms, weapons, and photographs. Visitors can learn about the various wars the United States has been involved in and how they have impacted the lives of military personnel and their families.

2. Jesse Owens Memorial Park and Museum

Continuing your journey, you’ll find the Jesse Owens Memorial Park and Museum in Oakville. This historic site honors the legendary track and field athlete Jesse Owens, who won four gold medals at the 1936 Olympics in Berlin. The museum features a vast collection of memorabilia, including Owens’s original Olympic uniform, medals, and personal artifacts. Visitors can watch a video that chronicles Owens’s life, from his childhood in rural Alabama to his achievements as an athlete.

3. Bankhead National Forest

As you drive towards Vernon, don't miss out on visiting Bankhead National Forest. The forest covers over 180,000 acres and is abundant in natural beauty. The forest features hiking trails that offer stunning views of waterfalls, rock formations, and diverse wildlife. Visitors can also go camping, boating, fishing, and swimming in the forest’s numerous lakes and streams. There are several picnic areas throughout the forest, which are ideal for a relaxing lunch break.

4. Natural Bridge Park

Natural Bridge Park is a must-visit destination in the area. It features the longest natural bridge east of the Rockies, and it’s over 200 million years old. The park is a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and bird-watching. The natural bridge is a fantastic sight to behold, and visitors can take a leisurely walk on the bridge itself. In addition to the natural bridge, the park has many walking trails that lead to waterfalls, rock formations, and other natural wonders.

5. Lamar County Heritage Center

Before you reach your final destination in Vernon, don't forget to stop at the Lamar County Heritage Center. Located in Vernon, the center provides a glimpse into the community’s history and culture. The exhibits feature various artifacts that highlight Vernon’s past, including agriculture, infrastructure, and society. The center has a small library that visitors can use to delve deeper into the county’s history.

Conclusion

There are plenty of things to see and do along the road trip from Athens, Alabama, to Vernon, Alabama. The journey’s highlights include exploring the Jesse Owens Memorial Park and Museum, hiking the trails at Bankhead National Forest, and admiring the natural wonders in Natural Bridge Park. When you finally reach your destination in Vernon, make sure you stop by the Lamar County Heritage Center for a glimpse into the town's history.