The Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Blakely, Georgia and Huntsville, Alabama

Blakely, Georgia, and Huntsville, Alabama, are relatively close, and a road trip is the perfect way to explore the area in between. At the halfway point lies Clanton, Alabama, home to the Peach Park and The Big Peach. On this road trip, there are numerous activities to take you through Alabama's beautiful and historic countryside, from antebellum homes to prehistoric landmarks, and here are the top five things that will make your trip a success.

Visit the U.S. Space & Rocket Center

At the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, you can learn about the history of space travel and take a look at some impressive space vehicles, including rockets and shuttles. The center features interactive exhibits and shows that demonstrate the different aspects of space travel, and visitors can take a simulation ride to experience what it's like to travel in space.

Interesting Fact: Huntsville has been nicknamed "Rocket City" because the city has a long history with rocketry and aerospace exploration. It was the birthplace of the U.S. space program, and scientists have been designing and testing rockets in the city since the 1950s.

Tour the Ave Maria Grotto

Ave Maria Grotto, located in Cullman, Alabama, is a one-of-a-kind destination that's perfect for a unique photo opportunity. The 3-acre garden is home to hundreds of miniature replicas of historic buildings from around the world, all created by a Benedictine monk named Brother Joseph Zoetti. The grotto is a place of peace, meditation, and prayer.

Interesting Fact: Brother Joseph Zoetti created over 125 sculptures in his lifetime, and they can be found all over the U.S. and even as far as West Germany and Puerto Rico.

Explore the Antebellum Homes

Montgomery, Alabama, is home to some of the most beautiful antebellum homes in the South, including the Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site, the Governor's Mansion, and Old Alabama Town. These homes offer a glimpse into the social and cultural history of the area and are an essential part of the region's history.

Interesting Fact: The Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site was founded to preserve the history of the first African American pilots who fought in World War II.

Hike at Cheaha State Park

Cheaha State Park, located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, is a natural wonder that offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and swimming. The park is home to the highest natural point in Alabama and boasts miles of hiking trails that offer stunning views of the rocky terrain.

Interesting Fact: Cheaha State Park is home to six different natural ecosystems, including pristine forests, waterfalls, and rock formations.

Stop by DeSoto Caverns

DeSoto Caverns, located in Childersburg, Alabama, is one of the oldest caves in the U.S. The cavern has been lined with decorative lights and is home to numerous formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstones. Visitors can take a guided tour of the cave, participate in gemstone mining, and enjoy a variety of other activities, including a ropes course and a maze.

Interesting Fact: DeSoto Caverns was named after the Spanish explorer Hernando De Soto, who is said to have visited the cave in the 16th century.

Overall, the trip will take roughly 7 hours and 15 minutes driving time. And that's without including any of the additional stops these destinations offer, such as local shops or restaurants on the way. With so much to see and do between Blakely, Georgia, and Huntsville, Alabama, there's no reason not to embark on a road trip for memories that'll last a lifetime!