See Alabama from a new angle on the Talladega Scenic Byway

Located in the middle of the Talladega National Forest, Cheaha State Park is home to the highest point in Alabama, at 2,407 feet above sea level. That means that the 2,799-acre park is home to some of the most breathtaking views in the whole state, and offers plenty to do. Here you'll find multiple trails of varying difficulty, as well as the chance to get up-close-and-personal with a wide range of wildlife. And, Cheaha offers multiple campgrounds to choose from, so you can spend the night basking in the refreshing natural beauty of this lovely spot.

While making your way through Alabama, adding Talladega National Forrest to your trip is a must. The woodland is the smallest of the four national forests in Alabama, but don't let its size deter you. Whether you're looking for some peaceful relaxation in nature, or want a variety of options for outdoor activity, Talladega National Forest has you covered. Walk the 8-mile-long Bartram National Recreation Trail, which was one of the first major hiking trails in Alabama, and be mesmerized by the blooming flowers, incredible wildlife, and rich diversity of trees. Or, if you're looking for activities beyond hiking, you'll have access to campgrounds, ATV rentals, mountain biking, and horseback riding. There's also access to fresh water lakes for swimming and boating. If you can, make sure to plan your visit during the spring or fall to get the most out of the amazing nature views.

As the legend goes, in late November 1954, an 8.5-pound meteorite landed in the small town of Sylacauga, Alabama, crashing through the roof of Ann Hodge's house, hitting her in the arm. Surprisingly, the only damage was a bruise on her arm. The town was so shocked at the once-in-a-lifetime feat, they built the monument "Falling Star" in her honor. It was crafted by the highly acclaimed stone-based sculptor Don Lawler. To this day, hundreds of tourists from around the country come to learn about how a rock fell from the sky and hit a woman, but left her alive to tell the tale. It's a kitschy stop dedicated to an event that totally defied the odds of probability!

DeSoto Caverns is a great stop for anyone looking for a little roadside attraction fun. A family-run business, DeSoto Caverns is one of the most historic spots in the United States, with rich history embedded in each step you take. It was deemed America's "first cave" by George Washington himself! Beyond the natural beauty, the caverns offer access to hundreds of years of history, from the Civil War to the Native Americans that used to call the caverns home. Whether you're awestruck by its unique views, or curious about the strangely-named "Healing All Cathedral" room, you're guaranteed to have a good time.