Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Millbrook, AL

Summary of Activities in Millbrook, Alabama

Jackson Lake Island
Alabama Nature Center
Town of Spectre
National Memorial for Peace and Justice
Legacy Museum
Montgomery Zoo
Rosa Parks Library and Museum
RTJ Golf Trail – Capitol Hill
The Catfish House
Cooter’s Pond Park
Fort Toulouse-Jackson Park
Buena Vista Mansion
Alabama State Capitol Building
Hank Williams Museum
Old Alabama Town

The city of Millbrook, Alabama, is located 9 miles northwest of state capital Montgomery.

Enveloped by lakes, rivers, and islands, it serves as an excellent location for reconnecting with nature.

Its proximity to Montgomery facilitates visits to Civil Rights trails, museums, memorials, and deeper exploration of the region’s historical significance.

Whether you aspire to retrace the steps of Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks, explore a remote island movie set, or visit Antebellum-era mansions, all these activities are accessible from Millbrook.

As a resident of Alabama who has frequented Millbrook several times, I can assure you there are numerous activities within and around the city. You are likely to find something enjoyable from my compilation of the top experiences in Millbrook, Alabama:

1. Jackson Lake Island

Jackson Lake Island is a serene oasis near Millbrook.

With sinuous hiking paths, an abundance of resident goats, and even a historic movie set, there is much to explore.

It is favored by anglers and serves as a rest stop for those engaging in canoeing or kayaking adventures.

You can wander through the abandoned movie set, framed by tree canopies adorned with Spanish Moss, pause for a picnic in the open air, or even camp on the island under a canopy of stars.

2. Alabama Nature Center

A visit to the Alabama Nature Center is highly recommended during your stay in Millbrook. This extensive 23,000 square foot educational facility features a hands-on discovery hall with nature and wildlife displays, a 120-seat advanced theater, and a gift shop.

If you seek outdoor exploration, the surrounding area boasts 5 picturesque miles of hiking trails where you can observe various flora, fauna, and an array of bird species while traversing wetlands, forests, and streams.

Be sure to bring your walking shoes, a picnic, and a camera to fully enjoy the wonderful offerings of this nature center.

3. Town of Spectre

If you appreciated Tim Burton’s 2003 fantasy/drama film, ‘Big Fish,’ featuring Ewan McGregor and Albert Finney, a visit to the Town of Spectre—the filming location—will certainly captivate you.

Situated on Jackson Lake Island, this desolate set remains intact from its cinematic days, though it is now inhabited by a herd of goats instead of actors and extras! Items such as shoes adorning the telegraph wire and an old church still command attention on the street.

The Spanish Moss-draped trees impart an eerie atmosphere, and as you stroll through the empty buildings, you will hear them creak beneath your footsteps.

This location is an excellent destination for film enthusiasts, photographers, and aspiring filmmakers. Bring your Go-Pro to create your own film on the set or enjoy a picnic alongside the resident goats before spending the night camping on the island.

4. National Memorial for Peace and Justice

National Memorial For Peace And Justice, Montgomery, Alabama

When visiting Alabama, understanding the state’s role in the Civil Rights movement is essential.

Therefore, it is significant to visit the National Memorial for Peace and Justice located in Downtown Montgomery.

This monument, which opened in April 2018, was established near the former site where slaves were auctioned.

It symbolizes all U.S. counties where racially motivated lynchings occurred from 1877 to 1950, featuring 805 hanging steel rectangles representing coffins for each victim.

This poignant memorial reflects on challenging periods in Alabama and the nation, aiming to foster awareness of racial equality moving forward.

5. Legacy Museum

Upon visiting the National Memorial for Peace and Justice, a natural progression is to head to the adjacent Legacy Museum.

This 11,000 square foot facility explores the history of racial inequality while addressing current issues through multimedia exhibits, personal narratives, and dioramas.

A particularly impactful exhibit allows guests to understand the harrowing experience of being auctioned as a slave, highlighting the ramifications this had on individuals, both children and adults.

The Legacy Museum is not suited for the faint of heart; nonetheless, it effectively recounts historical and contemporary injustices.

For those interested in delving into Montgomery’s historical context, this museum should not be overlooked.

6. Montgomery Zoo

Initially established as a community park and children’s zoo in the 1920s, Montgomery Zoo now spans a 40-acre landscape and is home to 700 animals.

Featuring five themed continents and a Zoofari Skylift Ride offering an elevated view of the park, it provides entertainment for all ages.

Whether your interest lies in observing Bengal tigers, American Black Bears, Jaguars, or Giraffes, you can experience everything the zoo offers. Additionally, bird enthusiasts can feed parrots in Parakeet Cove.

7. Rosa Parks Library and Museum

In 1955 in Montgomery, Alabama, Rosa Parks, an African-American woman from Tuskegee, courageously refused to relinquish her bus seat to a white passenger.

This pivotal act ignited the Civil Rights Movement, leading many African Americans to strive for equality under the leadership of Martin Luther King Jr.

Explore Rosa’s journey at the Rosa Parks Library and Museum, featuring an array of photographs, an interactive time machine, an auditorium, and engaging exhibits. You can also visit the iconic bus stop in Court Square where this transformative event commenced.

8. RTJ Golf Trail – Capitol Hill

Located in Prattville, approximately 5 miles southwest of Millbrook, lies the magnificent Robert Trent Jones designed Capitol Hill Golf Course.

This expansive 1500-acre area encompasses three championship 18-hole courses: the Legislator, the Senator, and the Judge.

Among these, the Judge is considered the most challenging course, boasting a slope rating of 142 and water hazards that can test even the most seasoned golfers.

Surrounded by lush landscapes, this impressive 54-hole trail is a sight to behold. If you aim to enhance your golfing skills during your visit and seek to recount tales of triumph over The Judge, make your way to Capitol Hill Golf Course.

9. The Catfish House

Since its establishment in 1974, The Catfish House has garnered a reputation for its expertly prepared hand-breaded catfish and seafood dishes.

With reasonably priced and generously portioned meals in a relaxed, family-friendly setting, it’s clear why this establishment is among the most frequented dining venues in the area.

The warm Alabama hospitality ensures an inviting atmosphere, welcoming even first-time visitors with open arms.

The interior features charming antiques and memorabilia, complementing the savory catfish and seafood offerings. Be sure to try the white beans and slaw for an added kick.

10. Cooter’s Pond Park

Situated along the banks of the Alabama River is the scenic Cooter’s Pond Park, which is divided into two distinct sections.

One area features woodland trees draped in Spanish Moss, expansive fields, and pavilions, providing stunning views of the Montgomery skyline.

The other section runs along the river’s edge, providing easy access to boating ramps and picnic facilities.

This location offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching, with potential sightings of Northern Parulas, Eastern Bluebirds, and Great Blue or Green Herons.

Having spent a delightful day at the park, I recommend bringing along a picnic, binoculars, and comfortable walking shoes, as you may find yourself lingering a bit longer than expected.

11. Fort Toulouse-Jackson Park

Fort Toulouse-Jackson Park rejuvenates local history.

Visitors can observe the reconstructed 1751 Fort Toulouse, numerous Creek Indian Houses, and even a partially restored Fort Jackson. Nature enthusiasts can take advantage of the abundant trails, such as the William Bartram Nature Trail, while viewing an ancient Indian Mound that dates back over a millennium.

The park hosts many events year-round, offering history reenactments and Alabama Frontier Days.

For those with a passion for American history and an interest in understanding the relevant events of this region, Fort Toulouse-Jackson Park is an ideal destination.

12. Buena Vista Mansion

Experience life as it was in bygone eras at the exquisite Buena Vista Mansion located in Downtown Prattville.

This historic mid-1800s mansion is ideal for tours, special gatherings, or events with family and friends.

Also recognized as the Montgomery-Janes-Whittaker House, it operates as a historic museum, showcasing a spiral mahogany staircase, monumental portico, and period furnishings.

13. Alabama State Capitol Building

This historic landmark was completed in 1851 and has since been the site of many significant U.S. events.

It was within this building that the Confederacy initiated its existence in the original Senate Chamber, and it was here that Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his memorable speech during the 1965 Voting Rights March from Selma to Montgomery.

The building exhibits a magnificent Greek Revival style with Beaux-Arts influences. Visitors can take a self-guided tour to explore the Supreme Court room and library, dome murals, and the former Senate floor.

Before departing, do not miss a stroll along the Avenue of Flags outside. Each flag represents a state, with an engraved native stone beneath it.

14. Hank Williams Museum

One of the premier attractions for music enthusiasts in the region is the Hank Williams Museum.

Birthed in Butler County, Hank Williams recorded over 225 songs in his brief career, with 128 authored by himself, out of which 11 became number one hits.

Throughout the museum, visitors can explore 35 exhibits displaying personal memorabilia, including his 1952 Baby Blue Cadillac, custom-made suits, a Steinway Piano, 1937 Gibson Guitar, sheet music, and even Hank Jr.’s first cowboy boots.

As a devoted fan of this remarkable artist, visiting the museum was essential for me. Thus, familiarize yourself with some of his iconic tracks prior to your visit, listening to ‘Hey, Good Lookin’, ‘Your Cheatin’ Heart’, and ‘I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry’ to set the mood before arriving.

15. Old Alabama Town

Immerse yourself in the historical experience of Montgomery through Old Alabama Town. This open-air museum houses over 50 authentic 19th and 20th-century restored structures that have been saved from demolition.

Among these buildings are the Molton House from the 1850s, an old church from 1888, and the intricately designed Ware-Farley-Hood House.

Visitors can explore a traditional tavern, a corner grocery store, and a chapel school.

If you appreciate architecture and wish to gain insights into historical lifestyles in Alabama, Old Alabama Town fulfills all your expectations.

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