Top 15 Activities and Attractions in Sylacauga, Alabama

The city of Sylacauga, known as “The Marble City” and “Alabama’s Best-Kept Secret,” has a rich history centered around its marble industry that spans a couple of centuries. Additionally, it was the first recorded site of an extraterrestrial object, the Hodges Meteorite, which famously struck a local resident. If its captivating heritage does not entice you to visit, Sylacauga is also nestled among historical landmarks, lush woodlands, caves, vineyards, and tranquil lakes.

Moreover, it serves as an ideal hub for thrill-seeking sports enthusiasts due to its proximity to the renowned Talladega Superspeedway, where fans can witness exhilarating race action or even take a lap around the track themselves.

1. Talladega National Forest

With scenic trails, picturesque woodlands, and cascading waterfalls, Talladega National Forest is an excellent destination to reconnect with nature.

It is intriguing to note that it was once one of Alabama’s most eroded regions due to extensive logging by local companies.

Currently, it supports a healthy ecosystem, encompassing a variety of flora and fauna, horseback riding paths, nature walks, and peaks for climbing.

If you are fortunate during your visit, you may catch sight of the endangered red-cockaded woodpecker, the gopher tortoise, and the flattened musk turtle.

Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes, pack a picnic, and perhaps bring camping equipment and a camera, to fully enjoy your day or two in this enchanting emerald forest.

2. DeSoto Caverns

Located 13 miles northwest of Sylacauga on the outskirts of Childersburg are the remarkable DeSoto Caverns.

These hidden caverns were once inhabited by prehistoric Indians, frequented by early Indian traders, and were utilized by Confederate soldiers to mine gunpowder during the Civil War.

Visitors can explore this subterranean wonderland and tour the “Healing All Cathedral,” named by Native Americans for its soothing and restorative properties.

This room boasts a height of 120 feet and a length of 100 yards, showcasing stunning stalagmites, stalactites, and fascinating rock formations through its narrow passages.

Do not miss the impressive light, water, and sound display while you explore the caves.

Above ground, there are numerous family-friendly activities to enjoy.

With over 20 attractions, including water golf, archery, crystal finding, gem panning, and a maze, entertainment is guaranteed for the entire day.

3. Blue Bell Creamery Tour

Indulge your sweet cravings with a factory tour of the Blue Bell Creamery in Sylacauga.

Established in 1996, Blue Bell Creamery now offers plant tours by appointment for interested visitors to the city.

Each tour guides you through the manufacturing and production process of their delectable ice creams, and at the conclusion of the 45-minute tour, there is an opportunity to sample some flavors. General admission is quite affordable, comparable to the price of an ice cream serving, making it a splendid family outing.

4. Kymulga Covered Bridge & Grist Mill

For an in-depth look into the history of the region, embark on a brief drive to Kymulga Covered Bridge and Grist Mill.

Located in a scenic woodland park, the Grist Mill, dating back to around 1860, was constructed from local timber.

Previously, locals utilized the mill to grind corn and wheat, and visitors today can join guided tours to observe its interior and the machinery used.

After visiting the Grist Mill, make your way to the Kymulga Covered Bridge.

This charming bridge once served as a primary access route for settlers relocating from other parts of the U.S. Now, you can traverse the bridge as it spans the creek and connects to trail systems leading into wooded areas filled with scenic hiking paths.

The woodlands are home to rare Alabama Paw Paw trees, historically used by Native Americans for medicinal and nutritional purposes, making it a delightful setting for creativity, offering splendid opportunities for photography and sketching.

5. Sylacauga Farmers Market

Sylacauga Farmer’s Market is a seasonal outdoor market located in Blue Bell Park, also referred to as Central Park, across from Blue Bell Creamery in Sylacauga.

This market operates each Friday morning from June to September, featuring stalls that offer organic farm-fresh produce from vendors within 50 miles of Sylacauga.

If you seek flavorful picnic foods, homemade jams and jellies, and fresh fruits and vegetables, the local Farmer’s Market is the place to visit.

6. Comer Museum & Arts Centre

The mission of this museum is to enhance access to arts and humanities through its diverse exhibits and collections for both residents and visitors.

The museum features a broad selection of memorabilia, historical artifacts, and photographs reflecting the local area.

Included are sculptures crafted from local marble for which the city is renowned, along with various displays regarding early settlers and Native Americans from the region.

This museum is a captivating venue to spend an hour or two learning about the city’s history and should not be missed while visiting Sylacauga.

7. Buttermilk Hill Restaurant

Located in a beautifully renovated Victorian home in Downtown Sylacauga, Buttermilk Hill Restaurant exudes historical charm dating back to 1904.

This Southern-style fine dining restaurant offers exquisite dishes, such as Shrimp and Grits paired with roasted asparagus, or the Char-crusted Angus New York Strip steak served with buttermilk mashed potatoes.

It is the perfect venue for a romantic dinner or a special celebration, yet do not forget to save room for dessert.

The dessert selection includes treats like sweet cornbread complemented by fresh strawberries drizzled with Sorghum Syrup and bread pudding topped with vanilla bean ice cream and the chef’s special topping.

8. FarmLinks Golf Course

FarmLinks Golf Course, artfully designed from picturesque farmland, features rolling hills and scenic views.

Crafted by Hurdzan-Fry Environmental Golf Design Inc., this course showcases well-maintained fairways, immaculate greens, and intriguing elevation changes.

Each hole carries its unique story, complemented by historical signage located throughout the course, allowing golfers to learn interesting facts as they play.

The course hosts numerous golfing competitions throughout the year, so it is advisable to check for upcoming events before your visit.

9. Lake Howard

Situated adjacent to Talladega National Forest, approximately 5 miles northeast of Sylacauga, Lake Howard is a beautiful retreat.

With 180 acres, it boasts some of the finest fishing, hiking, and mountain biking opportunities within the state.

Anglers will discover the lake to be well-stocked with bass, crappie, and bream, while mountain bikers can traverse the 14-mile Sylaward Trail through the woods.

For those seeking relaxation in nature, picnics and trail hikes make for an enjoyable experience.

Regardless of your choice of activity, Lake Howard offers an idyllic setting to unwind and appreciate the stunning Alabama landscape.

10. Morgan Creek Vineyards

If you are interested in sampling exquisite wines during your travels, a visit to Morgan Creek Vineyards is essential.

This vineyard specializes in Muscadine and fruit wines, which are sweet and pair wonderfully with red meats, game dishes, spicy jambalaya, or desserts.

You may wish to acquire a bottle of NV Blush – a semi-sweet muscadine blend with fruity notes of pear nectar, or indulge in the NV Red Mountain Red, a full-bodied semi-sweet wine with hints of cherry and mocha, ideal for complementing decadent chocolate desserts! If uncertain about your choice, there are tasting options available, and vineyard experts are on hand to assist.

11. Talladega Superspeedway

Talladega Superspeedway is located in the small town of Lincoln, Alabama, roughly a 40-minute drive from Sylacauga.

This motorsports track, established in 1969 on the former site of the Anniston Air Force Base, draws thousands of racing aficionados each year to its 2.66-mile-long track to witness their favorite teams compete in the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series and NASCAR Xfinity Series.

Numerous events are held throughout the year, so it is wise to check the schedule in advance to avoid missing out on an exhilarating race day.

Camping at the racetrack before the event allows for potential socializing with fellow motorsport enthusiasts.

12. International Motorsports Hall of Fame

Adjacent to the Talladega Superspeedway resides the International Motorsports Hall of Fame.

This exhibition center honors the significant contributors in the motorsport sphere, including drivers, race car designers, engineers, and team managers.

Noteworthy tributes can be found for racing legends such as Emerson Fittipaldi, Niki Lauda, and Nigel Mansell, alongside tributes for prominent figures in automotive design and racing entrepreneurship, such as Enzo Ferrari and Henry Ford.

This venue is a must-visit while at the racetrack or for anyone interested in motorsport history.

13. August’s Barbeque

If you are in search of succulent barbeque ribs or grilled steak accompanied by a baked potato and salad, consider visiting August’s Barbeque Restaurant situated on Highway 280 just outside Sylacauga.

This restaurant serves enticing comfort food suitable for all ages and frequently features live music on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.

With options such as delectable baby back ribs, smoked chicken, sausage, and steak, there’s something to satisfy every palate.

Family-style platters designed for two or more are available, plus if you are dining with friends, takeout options for their smoked meats are also offered, making it an ideal location for dinner after a day of exploration.

14. Bryant Vineyard

Another excellent vineyard to discover in the area is Bryant Vineyard, recognized as Alabama’s oldest continuously operating winery.

This vineyard has cultivated its vines on lands passed down through their family since the mid-1800s, producing aromatic and flavorful award-winning Muscadine wines today.

Try the Dixie Gold – a blend of Magnolia, Carlos, and Muscadine grapes, or perhaps sample a glass of Festive Red, a fruity semi-dry selection, perfect for pairing with dinner.

15. Noble Park

After engaging in wine tasting, enjoying ice cream, hiking, fishing, or mountain biking, consider unwinding in Noble Park, located in Downtown Sylacauga.

This serene city park features a playground for children, a quarter-mile walking trail, and a skateboarding park.

Feel free to bring a picnic, celebrate outdoors with family and friends, or simply relax on the grass while soaking up the Alabama sunshine.