REGION V TOURISM COMMITTEE Dated 10/1/2010 Letter from Chair
The mission of the Alabama Rural Action Commission (ARAC) is to measurably improve the quality of life in Alabama's rural areas by working with citizens of Alabama and external parties who offer support.
I am honored to Chair the ARAC South Central Alabama Action Commission Tourism Committee, which consists of 11 counties; Autauga, Bullock, Butler, Crenshaw, Elmore, Lee, Lowndes, Macon, Montgomery, Pike and Russell. The hard working, dedicated committee members visited every single county in our jurisdiction over the last year.
The committee discussed the many ways to build on the tourism assets that we have in this diverse region. We shared ideas, from a mobile unit for customer service training to helping the incentive bill for the film industry get passed to vacationing in our own backyards. I am happy to say that the Region 5 meetings over the last year have energized leaders throughout the region about the very real prospects of growing tourism from where it is now to a much bigger and stronger industry.
I look forward to another year of working with all 11 counties, engaging in the productive dialog that takes place, marveling at the creative sparks that get ignited and articulating a healthy respect for the leadership of the governments and institutions in Region 5 counties, cities and towns. Our work is an on-going process intended to maximize tourism in each of the communities within our target area.
I would like to especially thank Governor Bob Riley and Senator Gerald Dial for their vision, leadership and support.
Respectfully, Pebblin W. Warren Alabama State Representative & Chair, ARAC Region 5 Tourism Committee ARAC REGION 5 TOURISM COMMITTEE REP. PEBBLIN WARREN, CHAIR NOAH HOPKINS, CO-CHAIR FRANCES SMILEY, CO-CHAIR
AUTAUGA COUNTY
Connie Bainbridge BULLOCK COUNTY Prattville Chamber of Commerce Sheila Morrissette Barbara McLaurine City of Prattville Bullock County Chamber Tourism Committee Joyce Perrin Bullock County Chamber Tourism Prattville Chamber of Commerce 334-365-7392 Ann Maxwell 131 North Court Street Bullock County Tourism Committee Prattville, AL 36067 334-738-TOUR Email: [email protected] 106 Conecuh Street, East Union Springs, AL 36089 Web: www.prattvillechamber.com Email: [email protected] Web: www.usacoc.com
Harold Daniels Alabama Department of Revenue & Film Advisory Committee Greenville Chamber of Commerce 334-382-3251 One Depot Square Greenville, AL 36037 Email: [email protected] Web: www.Greenville-alabama.com Robyn R. Snellgrove
Crenshaw County EIDA
BUTLER COUNTY
Crenshaw County ELMORE COUNTY ELMORE COUNTY Chamber of Commerce
Crenshaw County EIDA
CRENSHAW COUNTY CRENSHAW CRENSHAW COUNTY CRENSHAW CRENSHAW COUNTY CRENSHAW 3 South Forest Avenue. P.O. Box 4 Jan Wood 334-335-4468 Wetumpka Area Chamber of Commerce Luverne, AL 36049
Email: [email protected] 334-567-4811 Web: www.luverne.org 110 East Bridge Street Wetumpka, AL 36092 Email: [email protected] Web: www.Wetumpkachamber.com AND ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Cindy Chancellor LOWNDES COUNTY Auburn-Opelika Tourism Bureau John Wild Auburn-Opelika Tourism Bureau Robert Lane 334-887-8747 Lowndes County Commission 714 East Glen Avenue Auburn, AL 36830 Email: aotourism.com Fort Deposit Chamber of Commerce Web: www.aotourism.com PO Box 162 Ft. Deposit, AL 36032 Lowndes County Commission LEE COUNTY Tourism Committee Robert Lane: [email protected]
MACON COUNTY T. C. Coley, Jr. Tuskegee Human & Civil Rights Multicultural Center Bob McLain L. River James Old Alabama Town Macon County Economic Dev. Authority Clara Nobles Alabama Historical Commission Tuskegee Area Chamber of Commerce Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce
MONTGOMERY COUNTY
MONTGOMERY COUNTY 334-727-6619 Convention & Visitor Bureau MONTGOMERY COUNTY 121 South Main Street 334-361-1105 Tuskegee, AL 38083 300 Water Street Email: [email protected] Montgomery, AL 36104 Web: www.tuskegeeareacham.org Email: tourism@ montgomerychamber.com Web:
www.visitingmontgomery.com
RUSSELL COUNTY
PIKE COUNTY PIKE
PIKE COUNTY PIKE PIKE COUNTY PIKE Shelia Jackson Victor Cross City of Troy Tourism Phenix City—Russell County Chamber of Commerce
334-298-3639 1107 Broad Street 334-670-2283 Phenix City, AL 36867 113 North Market Street Email: [email protected] Troy, AL 36081 Web: www.pc-rcchamber.com Email: [email protected] Web: www.troyalabama.com I. INTRODUCTION Our Mission Region 5 Tourism Committee Region 5 Tourism Committee was formulated in September is an innovative group of 2008. It is a subcommittee of the Alabama Rural Action tourism marketing profes- Commission. Region 5 consists of Autauga, Bullock, Butler, sionals who share the vision Crenshaw, Elmore, Lee, Lowndes, Macon, Montgomery, Pike and Russell counties. This white paper will show that tourism and challenges of increasing within Region 5 represents a potential goldmine. We will tourism to our towns, cities highlight some of the many tourist attractions within each and region, through the pro- county. However, it will also speak to the need for collaboration and partnerships between counties in the Region. motion and marketing of au- thentic and unique cultural We explored the opportunities and challenges to bring enriching, exciting and authentic experiences to visitors and to and heritage offerings. develop our connections. Tourism remains one of Alabama’s most vital industries. The economic activity and employment generated by tourism spans various economic sectors. In 2009, over $679 million of the State and local tax revenues were generated by travel and tourism activities. Without these taxes, each household in Alabama would have had to pay $391 in additional taxes to maintain current service levels. Travelers are estimated to have spent over $9.3 billion in Alabama. Autauga 6 Bullock 8 An estimated 162,464 jobs—8.6 percent of non-agricultural employment in Alabama were directly or indirectly attributed Butler 10 to the travel and tourism industry. The total impact of the travel and tourism industry on Alabama’s earnings in 2009 is Crenshaw 12 estimated at over $3.6 billion. For every $1 in Alabama travel related expenditures creates one direct job in Alabama. Elmore 14 Lee 16 According to the United States Travel Association (USTA) the hotel demand continued to be well above the 2009 levels. The Lowndes 18 average American leisure traveler took an average of four trips during the past year and spent more than $3,500 on travel Macon 20 services and the research suggest that the industry can expect a modest increase in demand the year ahead. Montgomery 22 Pike 24 Russell 26 Issues & 28 Recommendation Acknowledgements 30
II. BACKGROUND
This committee consists of individuals from each county in the Region with interest and/or expertise in tourism and marketing. The Tourism Committee is chaired by Representative Pebblin Warren. The co-chairs are Noah Hopkins and Frances Smiley. Other members of the committee are: Connie Bainbridge (Autauga); Cindy Chancellor (Lee); Victor Cross (Russell); Harold Daniels (Butler); L. River James (Macon); Robert Lane (Lowndes); Barbara McLaurine (Bullock); Anne Maxwell (Bullock); Sheila Morrissette (Autauga); Clara Nobles (Montgomery); Joyce Perrin (Bullock); Robyn Snellgrove (Crenshaw) and Jan Wood (Elmore).
We identified within our region the following types of tourism assets: Heritage and cultural related, Environmental/Natural, shopping, architectural, archaeological, entertainment, events, festivals, rural, outdoor, recreational, educational, business, flea markets and specialty stores.
In our meetings we discussed some suggested audiences or visitors for assets: local and regional residents, visitors from bordering states, national and international tourists, baby boomers, naturalists (great geographic diversity), heritage tourists, educators, students, genealogists, outdoor enthusiasts, RV lifestyle, shoppers, spring breakers, conference attendees, sports fans and music enthusiasts. Region 5 has attractions that will attract all of these visitors.
III. IDENTIFYING THE NEED
This paper will identify some possible solutions to connecting the tourism components within this region and some innovative measures to market tourism in this Region. We must begin to capitalize on our natural Alabama treasures. Each county in Alabama offers a rich and unique experience. The State of Alabama has a lot to offer. From Montgomery to the Georgia line is a different world.
This committee held its meetings in each of the eleven (11) counties within Region 5. As we traveled around the region and listened to community leaders make presentations regarding their cities and towns we became aware of the increasing need to connect the region and to develop strong marketing tools. Some of the top issues identified were the need for customer service training, the lack of a viable marketing piece (brochure) representing the highlight of the region, and with the passing of the Film Incentive Bill in the last Legislative Session, the issue of not being in a position to readily take advantage of the film industry business that will come to our great State.
IV. HIGHLIGHTING REGION 5
We have highlighted each county within the Region. The first page will give general information about the county, then tell you what makes the county unique and tell you why you need to visit the area. The second page will list the unique assets within the county.
5 AUTAUGA COUNTY
GENERAL INFORMATION
As of the 2000 census the population was 43,671. The 2009 population estimate is 51,318. Its county seat is Prattville. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 604 square miles. Nearly 596 square miles of it is land, and eight square miles of it (1.40%) is water.
What is it that makes our community unique? Autauga County Courthouse
Prattville, Alabama is home of Alabama’s First Industry. Daniel Pratt moved to Why would someone come to our area? Alabama from New Hampshire in 1833 to build and sell cotton gins. Over the Prattville, Alabama is a friendly city that truly has something years, he built an industrial village that to offer everyone. From golfing to shopping, Prattville is a is named after him. Pratt established this place that is home to many unique sites and attractions that village along the banks of beautiful both visitors and locals will thoroughly enjoy. Autauga Creek, which provided water Prattville is home to Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at Capitol power for his many industries. Today, Hill. It features three 18-hole championship courses and is Downtown Prattville showcases the home to the Navistar LPGA Classic each October. Prattville is original industrial buildings from the also home to Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World. This store not 1850s. Daniel Pratt’s legacy is being only offers shopping for outdoor equipment, but it also offers preserved by the revitalization of the workshops and classes where hunters and fishers can improve Daniel Pratt Historic District which their outdoor skills. The store is family friendly also. An includes: restoration of streets and 18,000 gallon freshwater aquarium and the World Famous buildings, many unique shops and Islamorada Fish Company Restaurant are also located in the eateries, and a newly opened creek walk. facility. The Daniel Pratt Historic District is a must see when visiting Prattville. The Downtown area showcases the original 1850s buildings from the industry that Daniel Pratt created beginning in the 1830s. There are many unique shops and restaurants located downtown that offers everything from antiques to Cajun cooking. The Creek Walk along the Autauga Creek is also a must see attraction!
6 AUTAUGA COUNTY AUTAUGA COUNTY
Agriculture Historic Places Chris’s Bar-B-Que Home Place Farms Absolom Doster House Fanci Free and Garden Café Autauga County Courthouse Fat Boy’s Bar-B-Que Annual Events/Festivals Autauga County High School Fountain City Grille Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Bell House House of Java Christmas Parade Martin Burt House Jim’s Restaurant Fountain City Festival Cook House Jose’s Cantina Halloween Candy Walk Buena Vista Jose’s Mexican Grill Holiday Open House Daniel Pratt Historic District Las Casitas Independence Day Parade & Fireworks Davis -Loder House Maries’ on Main/Roy’s Deli Prattville Mardi Gras Parade Doster Walthall House Pasta, Pizzeria & Grill Judge Booth House Ria’s Pizza Ria Antiques Lassiter House Uncle Mick’s Cajun Market & Café Carol Brooks Home & Holiday McQueen Smith House Marie’s On Main McWilliams House Spas Memories Flea Antique Mall Mary Dennis Smith House Blush-Boutique-Spa-Salon Montgomery-Jones-Whittaker House Feather on the Wind Artesian Wells Mount Sinai School Doster Road Northington-Sarto House Specialty Shops Heritage Park at Autauga Creek Pope-Golson House A Touch of New York Prattaugan Museum/Heritage Center Carol Brooks Home & Holiday Arts and Crafts Prattville Primary School Cute as a Button Boutique Arts & Crafts Show William Howard House Polka Dot Zebra P’Zazz Re-Threads Preloved Clothing Spinner’s Pumpkin Patch Hunting Rick’s Jewelers Studio 101 Alabama’s Whetstone Plantation Southern Whimsy Boutique Bear Creek Hunting Preserve That’s Mine Monogramming & Gifts Art Galleries/Museums Turtle Shell Art Gallery at the Creative Arts Center Parks/Forest/Nature Center Turtle Too Alabama Nature Center Victoria’s Boutique Bed and Breakfasts Bamboo Forest-Wilderness Park Vintage Blu Country Hideaway Cooters Pond Park Smith-Byrd Bed & Breakfast David Whetstone Jr. Sports Complex Sports Events Doster Memorial Community Center Navistar LPGA Classic Boats Heritage Park Bass Pro Shops Jasmine Trail Theatres Overlook Memorial Park Way Off Broadway Theatre Covered Bridges Pratt Park & Pool Old Wool Mill Bridge Stanley-Jensen Stadium Tours Wilderness Park Downtown Prattville Walking Tour Gardens Town Square Prattvillage Gardens Preservation Society Prattaugan Museum & Archives Trails Golf Autauga Bluebird Trail Robert Trent Jones @ Capitol Hill Restaurants Chocodelphia
7 BULLOCK COUNTY
GENERAL INFORMATION
Bullock County was established on December 5, 1866. The county has a total area of 626 square miles, land is 625 square miles and water is one square mile. The county is in the southeastern section of the state. The population is approximately 12,000. Union Springs is the county seat. Union Springs is the only city in the United States of America that can say welcome to USA. Our four entrance signs greet visitors by saying WELCOME TO USA.
What is it that makes our Bullock County Courthouse community unique? Enter Bullock County whose natural and Why would someone come to our area? cultural heritage abounds with places to Union Springs historic district includes such sites as the Old City entice you to discover. Union Springs the Cemetery, which has Union and Confederate soldiers buried as Bird Dog Field Trial Capital of the World well as the traditional Confederate Monument. The 1851 log host field trails from November to March cabin is authentically furnished. The Trinity Episcopal Church at pristine plantations such as Building now serving as the Red Door Theatre has German Art Sedgefields and Conecuh Station. A Bird Glass windows of the finest quality. The Carnegie Library with its Dog Monument erected in the Historic splendid original furnishings is the only Carnegie Library building Downtown in 1996 pays honor to the in the State still in operation as a Library. The County Court- sport. The Red Door Theatre hosts four house, built in 1871-1872 during the period of Reconstruction is a types of dramas during the year. The Second Empire style of architecture. The Chunnenuggee Fair, a Chunnenuggee Fair is an annual event street fair that has its roots back to 1847 is held downtown Union whose roots go back to 1847. Drive over Springs the last Saturday in April. Vendors, juried art shows, live the longest covered bridge in Alabama at entertainment and great food are enjoyed all day. The Historic the Wehle Nature Center in Midway, Three Notch Trail according to folk lore was originally an Indian which showcases artist Bob Wehle’s Path that General Andrew Jackson took from South Carolina go- works at the restored log cabin complex. ing to New Orleans in 1812 marking trees with three notches to Hunting in Bullock County is a tradition enable him to find his way back. that existed even before the days of the Midway: The Robert G. Wehle Nature Center features conserva- earliest settlers that traveled the Three tion and environmental educational exhibits aimed at both stu- Notch Trail. dents and adults. Bob Wehle’s village of restored log cabins is reached by the longest covered bridge in Alabama.
8 BULLOCK COUNTY BULLOCK COUNTY
Agriculture Historic Places Libraries Bonnie Plant Farm Aberfoil School Andrew Carnegie Library Dream Field Farm & Pumpkin Patch Bird-Dog Statue Mr. Turf Sod Farm Bullock County Courthouse Museum To Your Health Sprouted Flour Co. Chunnenuggee Ridge 1897 Pauly Jail Museum Confederate Soldier Statue Log Cabin Alabama Products First Baptist Church Midway Adams Pecan Fitzpatrick United Methodist Church Blue Moon Soap Company Foster-Bryan-Brown House Preservation Society Conecuh Cottage Dr. S.N. Hogan House Bullock County Historical Society Gulf States International, Inc. Hunter-Anderson House Renfroe Pecans Hunter House Restaurants Kennon-Shanks-Short House 82 West BBQ & Seafood Archaeology L.M. Moseley/The Homespun China Lin Creek Indian Mounds & burial grounds Mt. Hilliard Methodist Church Fish, Wings & Things Shark/Shell embankments Old Merritt School Hilltop Grill Old Parsonage for the United Methodist Los Portales Restaurant Arts and Crafts Church—Midway Southern Comfort Café Melanie’s Petals & Presents Old Union Church Union Pizza & Restaurante Josephine Arts Center Sardis Baptist Church St. James C.M.E.—Midway Storefronts Art Galleries/Museums Sterling Price Rainer-Perrin House Gibson’s Home Center Josephine Arts Center The Yellow House Gibson’s Furniture Gifts & Accessories Susan Anderson Hembree Furniture Store Historic Trail Jacksons’s Jewelry & Florist Birding DeSoto Trail Josephine Arts Center State Birding Trails Three Notch Trail June’s His & Hers & Gifts Master-Rack Lodge Main Drug Store Hunting Lodges Melanie’s Petal & Presents Cemeteries (Historic) Conecuh Station Union Springs Pharmacy Crews Cemetery Enon Plantation Uniquely You Mason Cemetery Great Southern Outdoors Oak Hill Cemetery Master Rack Lodge Theaters Samuel Sellers Cemetery Midway Plantation Red Door Theatre Reynolds Farm Covered Bridges Sedgefields Plantation Tours Wehle Nature Center Sehoy Plantation City Driving Tour Southern Sportsman City Walkable Gardens Springhill Plantation Downtown Driving Tour Chunnenuggee Sweetwater Preserve
Festivals Chunnenuggee Fair Automotive Cruise in October Fest
The Red Door Theatre BUTLER COUNTY
GENERAL INFORMATION
Butler County was formed from Conecuh County and Monroe County by an act passed on December 13, 1819 of the Legislature. This was the first session of the legislature of Alabama as a state. The county has a total area of 778 square miles, 777 is land and one is water. According to the last census Butler County has a population of approximately 21,400. Its county seat is Greenville.
What is it that makes our Butler County Courthouse community unique?
If you are looking for family fun and excitement, Butler County is the Why would someone come to our area? destination for you. Greenville is the Hank Williams Festival location of a Robert Trent Jones- designed golf course, Cambrian Ridge. Join us in for the Annual Hank Williams Festival in Georgiana. A fun-filled weekend of country music, arts and crafts, food and The clubhouse for the golf course was drink. Plus some good old-fashioned fun! Performances by Brad built on the highest point in Butler Magness & The Flying Buffaloes, Elaine Petty, Shenandoah, T.G. County. Shepherd, Jett Williams, Aaron Tippin and more! Greenville is also the home of the The Hank Williams Festival is an outdoor event, sponsored by Watermelon Jubilee, a local arts and the Hank Williams Museum. There is no reserved seating. Bring crafts exposition held each year in the your lawn chairs. No lounge chairs, coolers, food, drinks, or pets month of August. Every year in can be taken into the park. The festival is biker friendly. September, the city hosts the Butler County Fair. Also, during the fall, You can visit Hank Williams' Boyhood Home & Museum at 127 Greenville hosts Old Time Farm Day Rose Street, Georgiana Alabama, you'll see the surroundings which features activities such as tractor that influenced country music's greatest legend. races, blacksmithing and quilting Hank had fun making music, perhaps an escape from the hard demonstrations. times he and his family experienced. Hank was born into difficult times on a farm in Mount Olive, southwest of Georgiana.
10 BUTLER COUNTY BUTLER COUNTY
Antiques Historic Places W. W. Blackwell House Dwelling Place Buel-Stallings-Stewart House Ward Nicholson Corner Store Southern Treasures Butler Chapel A.M.E. Zion Church West Commerce Street Historic District Commerce Street Residential Historic Wright-Kilgore house Art Galleries District Museum Fine Arts League Confederate Park Hank Williams Boyhood Museum Fort Deposit Arts Council Dickenson House Gracefully Done by Elizabeth Reid East Commerce Street Historic District Preservation Society Greenville Area Arts Council Evens-McMullan House Butler County Historical Society First Baptist Church Camp Grounds First Presbyterian Church Restaurants Sherling Lake Fort Dale-College Street Historic Bates House of Turkey District El Rodeo Mexican Steak & Grill Colleges Gadsden-Perdue House Emily Café & Gourmet Coffee Lomas Hannon Bible College Gaydon House Hook’s BBQ Lurleen B. Wallace Community College Greenville City Hall Pizza Pro Greenville Public School Complex The Chef’s Table Festivals Hawthorne Cowart House The Smokehouse Butler County Fair Hinson House Camellia City Summerfest John Howard House Specialty Shoppes Celebrate America King Street Historic District Grayson’s in Greenville Hank Williams Festival Lane-Kendrick Sherling House Monogram & Design Old Time Farm Day Little-Stabler House Nancy’s Heirloom Shoppe Watermelon Jubilee McMullan-Skinner House The Pineapple Oakey Street Methodist Church Golf Post Office Historic District Camellia Country Club South Greenville Historic District Robert Trent Jones at Cambridge Ridge Theological Building—A.M.E Zion Theological Institute
Greenville Ritz Theater Hank Williams Museum
11 CRENSHAW COUNTY
GENERAL INFORMATION
Crenshaw County was established on November 30, 1866. As of 2000 the population was 13,665. Its county seat is Luverne. The county has a total area of 611 square miles of that 610 is land and one square mile is water.
What is it that makes our community unique?
Brantley, Alabama is the “Front Porch Capital of the South” with some lovely Camellia House Bed and Breakfast old homes, and shops just begging to be explored. This town prides itself on their beautifully decorated front porches. Why would someone come to our area? Luverne is the county seat of Crenshaw county and is “the friendliest city in the South.” It is proud of its traditional past If you are looking for a picturesque place to spend the night, and pleased with its exceptional consider the Camellia House Bed and Breakfast. The Camellia hometown qualities. Luverne was House Bed & Breakfast was formerly known as the Douglass- named one of the top ten small towns in Hayden House which is listed on the Alabama Register of America. Eleven criteria including Historic Places. This beautiful, newly renovated 100 year old citizen involvement, local retail Queen Anne Victorian is located one block from historic ownership, church attendance, and the downtown Luverne. depth of a community's roots, were used Luverne visitors can enjoy recreation opportunities at several to determine livability factors. Luverne Sports Complexes, all of which offer ball fields, swimming pools, is a perfect blend of what people seek tennis courts, a nine-hole golf course, and several lakes for and want when seeking the best of boating and fishing. Annual events in Luverne include the small town living. Crenshaw County Rodeo, the Shriner’s World's Largest Peanut Boil, a Christmas parade, a July 4th fireworks display, and a Peanut Boil Festival.
12 CRENSHAW COUNTY CRENSHAW COUNTY
Antiques Haunted House Parks Ginger Bread House Antiques Miller’s House of Horror Douglas Park Miz Janie’s Antiques E.L Turner, Jr. Recreation Park Shoppes of Miz Fancy Historic Places Person to Person Sports Complex 1st United Methodist Church Attractions Airplane & Veterans Memorial Restaurants Chamber of Commerce Peanut Boil Brantley Historic District Annie’s Festival Highland Home College Chicken Shact Christmas Parade Kirkpatrick House Fishtales Restaurant Crenshaw County Rodeo Luverne Historic District Hooks Bar-B-Q Festival at the Well Veterans Memorial Park It Don’t Matter Restaurant July 4th Fireworks Display Mattie’s Shriner’s World’s Largest Peanut Boil Michael’s Southern Foods Lakes and Creeks Monarcas Mexican Restaurant Bed and Breakfast Crenshaw County Lake New China Restaurant Camellia House Bed & Breakfast Patsaliga Creek Specialty Shops Colleges and Universities 61 on Main Lurleen B. Wallace Community Motor Sports Haven’s Place College Southern Ridge ATV Trails Kate’s Kountry Steppin’ Out Genealogy Research Outdoors Studio 64 Luverne Public Library Barnett King Nature Trail The General Store Crenshaw County Agricultural Center Trish’s Treasures Golf Double J Whitetails Hunting Crenshaw County Recreational Club Well Glenwood Flowing Well
Shriner’s World’s Largest Peanut Boil—Luverne
13 ELMORE COUNTY
GENERAL INFORMATION
Nestled slightly southeast of center in the State and Northeast of the State’s capitol, Elmore County with Wetumpka as its county seat is Alabama’s fourth fastest growing county. Nearby lakes and rivers make Elmore County an ideal vacation spot and also provide gracious year round living and recreation.
What is it that makes our Community unique? Lovely 19th century homes, churches, and other landmark locations provide great Bibbs Graves Bridge attraction for tourists. Our county affords leisure living outside the big city atmosphere and offers peaceful living Why would someone come to our area? with history and natural beauty Economic growth has remained constant while morphing from combined. textile manufacturing to technology industries associated with There are locations and attractions to automobile suppliers, aircraft manufacturing and information accommodate a wide variety of technology. A swell of professionally licensed businesses has interests—water sports, hunters, populated the historic downtown section of Wetumpka, in the competitive sportsmen, nature lovers shadow of the Elmore County Courthouse. A growing emphasis and history buffs. All are encouraged by on tourism has seen the development of numerous related a warm Southern climate and annual cottage industries throughout the area. mean temperature of 61 degrees. The To the west, Millbrook has a booming retail economy. climate, combined with the richness of Wetumpka, in mid-county affords a wide array of attributes the soil, contributes to the county’s $26.5 many of which focus on tourism. Tallassee on the east has a million agricultural industry, which highly developed industrial and manufacturing sector. We have includes the production of staple crops, a warm and gentle southern heritage, steeped in pride and dairy and beef cattle, nursery stock, preservation; a county rich in natural resources; low crime rate; fruits and vegetables. Some twenty above average health care and research facilities nearby; an diverse religious denominations, good unsurpassed rate of taxation; numerous opportunities and public and private school systems, structures for sports enthusiasts; organizations and attractions progressive health care facilities, and dedicated to preserving and promoting the arts and cultural rapidly developing city and community presentations; events which serve to enhance community services all blend together to produce an awareness; and promotion of service and cooperation. We have attractive and positively developing it all. Elmore County—The Wave of the Future! county. 14 ELMORE COUNTY ELMORE COUNTY
Alabama One of a Kind New Year’s Eve Asteroid Drop– Wetumpka The Old Calaboose Alabama Nature Center at Lanark River Fest Wetumpka Robinson Springs United Methodist Church Jasmine Hill Gardens Russell Lands 4th of July Blast The Roxy Theater Wetumpka Impact Crater Russell Marine/Sea Ray Seven Gables Tallassee Christmas Parade Stephen P. McCulloch Dentistry Archaeology/Archives/Research Tallassee Summer Nights Street Dance Tallassee Guest House Elmore County Black History Museum Titus Blue Grass Festival Tallassee Mills Elmore County Courthouse Records Wetumpka Arbor Day Celebration Wetumpka Area Chamber of Commerce Elmore County Museum Wetumpka Earth Day Celebration Wetumpka High School, 1926 Fort Toulouse/Jackson Historic Site Lakes, Rivers and Bridges Poarch Creek Indian—Hickory Ground Fishing Alabama River ANC Fishing Weekend Benjamin Fitzpatrick Bridge Arts/Culture Angler’s for Kids Bibb Graves Bridge McCraney-Cottle Arts Council AWF Youth Fishing Tournament Coosa River Millbrook Community Players BassMaster Elite Lake Jordan Wetumpka Depot Players Theater Bass Pro Shop Lake Martin Crappie Master Tournament Tallapoosa River Boats/Canoeing/Outfitters Jr. Open Bass Tournament
Coosa Outdoor Center Rumbling Waters Bass Tournament Outdoors Coosa River Adventures International Bow Hunter’s Championships Navigator Boats Historic Downtowns Monster Mountain Motor Cross Tallassee Mudbog and Extreme Mudbog Farmers Markets Wetumpka Outboard Drag Boat Racing Electric Trade Day Historic Preservation /Reenactment Outdoor Women Unlimited Elmore County Farmers Coop Market Alabama Frontier Days Santuck Flea Market Recreation/Leisure Black History Preservation Society Tallassee Trade Days Creek Casino Wetumpka Confederate Memorial Day Parade Emerald Mountain Golf Club Elmore County Historical Society Festivals Guest House Recording Studio Fort Toulouse/Jackson State Historic Site Al. Antique Tractor Show & Pull Lakeside Golf & Country Club French & Indian War Encampment Al. Cotton Festival/Rook Tourney Piedmont Plateau Birding Trail Talisi Historical Preservation Society ANC Hydrangea Fest The Pines Golf Course Aquapalooza Tallassee Battles for the Armory Quail Walk Golf Club Christmas on the Coosa Historic Sites/Structures Robert Trent Jones Capitol Hill Golf Trail Coosa River Adventure Race Alliance Warehouse Wetumpka Sports Complex Coosa River Whitewater Festival The Company Store COTC Progressive Nativity/Lumininaria Visitors Centers Confederate Armory Eclectic Arbor Day Celebration Greater Tallassee Chamber of Commerce Confederate Officers Quarters Eclectic Christmas Parade Millbrook Chamber of Commerce The Council Tree – Tukabatchi Elmore County NWTF JAKES Day Wetumpka Chamber of Commerce Elmore County Courthouse Elmore Tree Lighting First Baptist Church Jasmine Hill Gardens Spring Blooming Walking Tours/Trails First Presbyterian Church July 3rd, Burt Haynie Field Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail Association First National Bank of Wetumpka July 4th Celebration, Wetumpka Historic Wetumpka and City Cemetery First United Methodist Church Krewe of Toulouse Mardi Gras, Wetumpka Heritage Walking Tours Wetumpka Holtville High School Luminary Night at Rich Field Swayback Bridge Trail Hotel Talisi Millbrook Christmas Parade Village Green L & N Depot Millbrook Mardi Gras Parade Wetumpka River walk Little Sam’s Café Millbrook Tree Lighting Ma Brown Dogtrot Log Cabin Millbrook Summer Fest Mount Vernon Theatre
LEE COUNTY
GENERAL INFORMATION
Lee County was established by act of the Alabama state legislature on December 5, 1866, out of parts of Macon, Tallapoosa, Chambers, and Russell Counties. According to the U.S. Census, the county has a total area of 616 square miles, of which 609 square miles is land and 7 square miles (1.11%) is water.
What is it that makes our community unique? Auburn, is known for being the home of Auburn University. Auburn is the largest Lee County Courthouse university in Alabama with an enrollment of approximately 24,000. Students hail from all 50 states and 80 Why would someone come to our area? countries. The community enjoys visiting AU’s library, the state’s largest with The Auburn Opelika area has something to offer everyone. more than 2.6 million volumes: the Whether it is attending college sporting events at Auburn Uni- theater: the state’s only university versity or strolling down the cobblestone streets of quaint museum-The Jule Collins Smith Museum downtown Opelika, there is something for everyone to enjoy. of Art: and of course, tailgating on Auburn and Opelika were named one of the country’s fastest football Saturdays. growing Metropolitan Statistical Areas. Hartsfield-Jackson At- lanta International Airport is only 90 miles away making us a Opelika, is known as a railroad town. convenient stop just off Interstate 85. We are only 3 ½ hours Since about 1836 the train still passes away from the gulf coast beaches. through Opelika today. There are cobblestone streets and restored Auburn is a special place; the transient population of students is warehouse buildings that are now the almost as large as that of the town itself. This creates an unex- home to quaint shops and restaurants. pected level of youth, culture, and energy amidst the quiet One prize possession, the Northside charm of a small town. The city is focused on responsible Historic District, with stately Victorian growth and dedicated to providing quality education, economic and Greek Revival homes dating back to development, and a high standard of living for its citizens. the 19th century, it is a pristine example Opelika is a community ready to embrace the future. Named in of history ensconced and preserved Kiplinger’s as one of the “Top Six Places to Retire,” it is a pro- within modern times. Opelika is the gressive city with abundant cultural, recreational, and educa- home of Grand National-on the Robert tional opportunities, balanced against a flourishing business Trent Jones Golf Trail. Named #1 public environment. course in the US by Golf World in 2010.
16 LEE COUNTY LEE COUNTY
Agriculture Festivals Parks and Recreation Randle Farms Auburn Cityfest Chewacla State Park Auburn Univ. College of Agriculture Boda Getta BBQ visit www.auburnalabama.org and Garden in the Park www.opelika.org for a list of all city parks Antebellum and Historic Homes Loachapoka Syrup Sopping and recreation venues The Brownfield House On the Tracks Food & Wine Festival The Darden House Preservation Society Whitfield Searcy House Forest Auburn Heritage Association Opelika Northside Historic District Louise Kreher Forest Ecology Preserve Opelika Historic Preservation Society Pebble Hill Greystone Mansion Gardens Railroad General James Henry Lane House Donald E. Davis Arboretum Montgomery and West Point Railroad Company Antiques Golf Trails Angel’s Antiques and Flea Mall Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at Restaurants Elizabeth’s Place Antique Market Grand National Top 10 Must Easts The Barbecue House Art Museums Historic Courthouses Mrs. Story’s Jule Collins Smith Art Museum Lee County Courthouse Warehouse Bistro Niffer’s Place Birding Historic Downtown Café 123 Piedmont Plateau Birding Trail South- Auburn, Alabama Jimmy’s eastern Raptor Rehab. Center Opelika, Alabama Ariccia Creole and Seafood Shack Cemeteries Toomers Drugstore Pine Hill Cemetery Amsterdam’s Café Rosemere Cemetery Specialty Shops Christmas Visit the variety of specialty shops in both Victorian Front Porch Christmas downtown Auburn and Opelika. From Tour antiques to unique gifts and clothing, you Christmas In a Railroad Town will find it all in both downtown areas.
Historic Churches Sports Events St Dunstans Episcopal Church Auburn University Emmanuel Episcopal Church www.auburntigers.com – the official website of Auburn athletics. Colleges & Universities For all other sporting events visit Auburn University www.auburnalabama.org/parks or Southern Union Community College www.opelika.org or www.aotourism.com
Covered Bridges Auburn Arena Salem Shotwell Covered Bridge Jordan Hare Stadium Opelika Sportsplex & Aquatic Center Drug Stores Yarbrough Tennis Complex Toomers Drug Store Auburn University Samford Hall
17 LOWNDES COUNTY
GENERAL INFORMATION
Lowndes County, Alabama, was established on January 20, 1830. As of the 2000 census, the population was 13,473. Its county seat is Hayneville. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 725 square miles, of which 718 square miles is land and 7 square miles (0.98%) is water.
What is it that makes our community unique? Lowndes County is in the heart of the blackbelt and is rich with unique Lowndes County Courthouse Alabama offerings and civil rights history. It was in Hayneville that 26 year old Jonathan Daniels, a 26 year old Why would someone come to our area? Episcopal seminarian at Episcopal Lowndes County is not just a civil rights site, there are beautiful Divinity School answered the call of Rev. birding trails and great bird habitat diversity. The parks along Martin Luther King Jr. to help register the Alabama River, built and maintained by the Corps of Engi- African-American voters in Alabama, neers, offer birders many opportunities throughout the year for only to be shot and killed months later, observing waterfowl, sandpipers, plovers and permanent resi- on August 20, 1965, while shielding a dent and migrating songbirds. Also, take this opportunity to then 16-year Ruby Sales from the visit the Holy Ground Battlefield. The 1913 Battle between the shotgun fired as she attempted to enter Creeks led by Red Eagle and American forces under General a store to buy something to drink. Claiborne with Pushmataha's Choctaws as allies. Red Eagle Viola Gregg Liuzzo was a civil rights was the last Creek to retreat. He escaped by leaping his horse, activist from Michigan and mother of Arrow, from a 12-foot bluff into the Alabama River and swim- five, who was murdered on Highway 80 ming to the opposite shore with his rifle over his head, while between Lowndesboro and White Hall by bullets spattered around him. Ku Klux Klan members after the 1965 Lowndes County enjoys the Calico Fort Arts and Craft Festival Selma to Montgomery march in and the Okra Festival. The Calico Fort Arts and Crafts Festival is Alabama. Ms. Liuzzo’s name is one of annual and includes the best of each category from many states those inscribed on a civil rights throughout the southeast. It’s held in Fort Deposit, Alabama in memorial in the state capital. She died at April every year. The Okra Festival is held on the last Saturday the age of 39. There is a historic marker in August each year in Burkeville along Highway 80 West. installed where Ms. Liuzzo died. There is something for all ages. It offers a taste of Lowndes County’s cultural arts, music, crafts and food.
18 LOWNDES COUNTY LOWNDES COUNTY
Agriculture Historic Markers National Parks Bates Turkey Farm Confederate Memorial - Located: Birding Lowndes County Hayneville Square Fort Deposit Town Park Trail Barbecue Jonathan Daniels - Marker Holy Ground Battlefield Park Deep Woods Barbecue Grill Junction of Highway 97 and 21 Prairie Creek Park Viola Gregg Liuzzo - Located on High Robert F. Henry Lock and Dam Historic Churches way 80 W. between Lowndesboro Ruby S. Moore Park Mount Gilliard Missionary Baptist and White Hall Church Restaurants Presbyterian Church Historic Schools C.C. Café Wrights Chapel AME Zion Church Calhoun Colored School Priester’s Pecans
Festivals Historic Homes Theaters Calico Fort Arts & Crafts Fair James Spullock Williamson House Lowndes County Children’s Theater Okra Festival Historic Towns Historic Trails Historic Courthouse Lowndesboro Lowndes County Interpretive Center Lowndes County Courthouse
Lowndes County Interpretive Center
19 MACON COUNTY
GENERAL INFORMATION
Macon County was established on December 18, 1832, from land ceded by the Creek Indians. As of 2000 the population was 24,105. Its county seat is Tuskegee. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 613 square miles, of which 611 square miles is land and three square miles (0.44%) is water.
What is it that makes our community unique?
Macon County Museum Not so long ago, we never would have thought that driving 50-100 miles away from home was much of a vacation. We felt that if it wasn’t several states or Why would someone come to our area? countries away to the beaches in the Carribean Islands or mountains in We don’t have to give up the pleasure of a great vacation. We Montana or wine country in California it just have to cut back on the number of miles we travel. The just wasn’t a vacation. But now the cost beaches, mountains and visits to great wine vineyards are right of travel makes us think twice about here for us to enjoy. jumping on an airplane to get to a Here in ALABAMA, WE HAVE IT ALL, history, culture, beaches, destination. Airline ticket prices are sky mountains, caves, hiking, hunting, bird watching, waterfalls, high. And airlines are charging for festivals, museums, parks, rivers, lakes, wineries, historic homes, everything from peanuts to baggage. food, shopping, national forests and many other tourism assets Driving’s not much better with the high that I probably forgot. cost of gas. So, its time to take a different approach.
20 MACON COUNTY MACON COUNTY
Agriculture Gautier/Sheriff Amerson’s House Horse Training Auburn Univ. College of Agriculture Grey Columns Old South Equine Beck’s Turf Farm Heard/Hostetter House SuCaro Ridge Moore and Davis Nursery Huntingdon College Historic Marker Randle Farms Stone Hunting & Fishing Lodge Tuskegee University Farms Johnson/Curtwright House East Alabama Deer Hunting Lipscombe/Howe House White Oak Plantation Artists Massey/Renaissance House Ron McDowell The Oaks (Booker T. Washington Museums Sam Cheek Home) Commodores Museum Thompson/Flowers House George Washington Carver Museum Historic Churches Tracy House/Women’s College Harris Barrett School Butler Chapel Varner/Mitchell House Tuskegee Airman Museum First Baptist Church (1919) Tuskegee Heritage Museum First Presbyterian Church (1800s) Festivals Tuskegee Human and Civil Rights Little Texas Tabernacle and Camp All Macon County Day Celebration Multicultural Center ground Carver Arts & Crafts Festival Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church Labor Day Fly-In Parks Tuskegee Methodist Church (1872) Memorial Day Fly-In Abbot Park Green Ford Park Historic Courthouse Forests Henderson Park Macon County Courthouse Bartram Trail Tsinia Wildlife Viewing Arena Tuskegee National Forest Historic Downtown Greyhound Racing Tuskegee, Alabama Historic Sites Victoryland Moton Field (Home of the Tuskegee Historic Districts Airmen) University Main Street Historic District Lionel Richie Birthplace Tuskegee University North Main Street Historic District Rosa Parks Birthplace Veil of Ignorance Vineyards Historic Homes Veterans Hospital Whippoorwill Vineyards Cobb/Foster/Laslie House
Tuskegee Airmen Museum All Macon County Day Celebration 21 MONTGOMERY COUNTY
GENERAL INFORMATION
Montgomery County was established by dividing Monroe County on December 6, 1816 by the Mississippi Territorial Legislature. It is named for Lemuel P. Montgomery. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 800 square miles, of which 790 square miles are land and 10 square miles (1.25%) are water.
What is it that makes our community unique?
What do Hank Williams, Dr. Martin Alabama State Capitol Luther King, Jr., Jefferson Davis and F. Scott Fitzgerald have in Common? They all lived in Montgomery, Alabama. Montgomery was the first Capital of the Why would someone come to our area? Confederacy and it is also the Birthplace of Civil Rights and Alabama’s state If you are a history buff, visit our historic State Capitol, the Civil capital. Montgomery has played a Rights Memorial, the First White House of the Confederacy, the significant role in many historical Rosa Parks Museum, Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum and events. The events that took place in Old Alabama Town just to mention a few historic sites. Take Montgomery influenced the world in a advantage of Montgomery attractions, both indoors and out. variety of ways for years to come. From a simple picnic or afternoon retreat to the park to a Visitors to Montgomery will find a wide technical hike, a round of golf, or a more adventurous sport, range of historic sites, museums and art there are plenty of Montgomery activities to keep you busy. galleries, as well as outdoor activities Visit our beautiful Riverwalk Amphitheater. The riverfront and restaurants. Montgomery is home location on the Alabama river makes it perfect for picnics, to an appealing variety of historic concerts, movies and plays. It also provides a stunning river buildings, museums, and interesting view. If sports is your forte’ drop into Montgomery Riverwalk sightseeing opportunities. Stroll Stadium. It is the home of the Montgomery Biscuits, a minor through Montgomery's sights on your league baseball team. It is built into an historic train station own, or take a scheduled tour. and has a total capacity of 7,000.
22 MONTGOMERY COUNTY MONTGOMERY COUNTY
Baseball Dowe Historic District Carver Community Park Montgomery Biscuit Stadium First White House of the Confederacy Chisholm Park Paterson Field Baseball Park Garden District Cloverdale Community Park Gerald-Dowdell House Cloverdale Park Colleges & Universities Governor’s Mansion College Park Air University Grace Episcopal Church Country Club Park Alabama State University Huntingdon College Campus Court Square Park Amridge University Jeff Davis Hotel Dannelly Park Auburn University Montgomery Jefferson Franklin Jackson House Dean Fain Park Capps College Gov. Thomas Jones House Fitzgerald Park Faulkner University Montgomery Union Station Floyd Park Huntingdon College Mt. Zion A.M.E. Church Fox Hollow Park Prince Institute Murphy House Gateway Park South University Old Ship A.M.E. Zion Church Georgia Washington Park Trenholm State Technical College Opp Cottage Goodwyn Park Troy University, Montgomery Ordeman-Shaw House Hayneville Road Park Virginia College Patrick Henry Britton House Homeview Park Pepperman House Hyde Park Festivals Perry Street Historic District Ida Bell Young Park Capital City Street Fest Power Magazine Kiwanis Park Jubilee City Fest Rice Semple Haardt House Lagoon Park Sayre Street School Louis Armstrong Park Historic Attractions Tankersley Rosenwald School Morningview Park AL Department of Archives & History Tulane Building Oak Park Alabama State Capitol Tyson-Maner House Overlook Park Civil Rights Memorial Winter Building Powder Magazine Park Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Winter Place Riverfront Park Church Vaughn Road Park First White House of the Confederacy Museums Montgomery Visitor Center Alabama Cattlemen’s Mooseum Theater and Performing Arts Dexter Avenue Parsonage Museum Alabama Shakespeare Festival Historic Places Fitzgerald Scott & Zelda Museum Capri Theatre Alabama State Capitol Hank Williams Museum Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts Al. State University Historic District Mann Wildlife Learning Museum Montgomery Performing Art Centre Bell Building Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts Brame House Old Alabama Town Cassumas House Rosa Parks Museum City of St. Jude Historic District Cleveland Court Apt. 620-638 Parks Cloverdale Historic District Bell Street Park Cottage Hill Historic District Bellinger Hills Court Square Historic District Bellingrath Dexter Avenue Baptist Church Blount Cultural Park Dexter Ave. Baptist Church Parsonage Buddy Watson Park
Montgomery Visitors Center PIKE COUNTY
GENERAL INFORMATION
Its name is in honor of General Zebulon Pike, an explorer who led an expedition to southern Colorado and discovered Pikes Peak in 1806. As of 2000 the population was 29,605. Its county seat is Troy. It is one of the oldest counties in Alabama, established in the year 1831. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 672 square miles, of which 671 square miles is land and one square mile (0.16%) is water.
What is it that makes our Troy Pioneer Museum General Store community unique? Brundidge is a unique city with a small town feel. It is a great place to raise a Why would someone come to our area? family or retire. The "We Piddle Around Theater" is housed in the former Pike County offers lots of choices and opportunities, whether Brundidge City Hall building which was you enjoy museums, art galleries or sporting events you’ll be built in 1940. able to indulge in all of them here. In Troy you can find the Pioneer Museum of Alabama. This museum interprets the With its tree lined streets, historic history of the pioneers who settled Alabama. buildings, and newly renovated town Pike County also features the Pike County Lake. This is a 45- square, Troy is one of the most acre lake filled with bass, catfish and crappie. This beautiful charming cities in the south. TroyFest is lake is surrounded by 410 acres of gorgeous woodlands the premier fine arts & craft festival for complete with walking trails. the central Alabama region. The weekend long show draws upwards of The Troy University Aboretum is an arboretum and nature 10,000 people to downtown Troy. preserve, located next to the Troy University campus. The Whether you're here for business or Arboretum includes 75 acres, and over 300 species of trees, as pleasure, explore all the city has to well as a 2.5 mile nature trail with swamp, stream and 4 acre offer, whether our historical downtown, mullis pond. shopping , Troy University, or the For the sports enthusiast, you will want to visit Veterans beautiful new Pike Cultural Arts Center. Memorial Stadium, home of the Troy Trojans. Troy is a wonderful place to live, work and visit.
24 PIKE COUNTY PIKE COUNTY
Antiques Festivals Restaurants JinWright’s Antiques & Collectibles Annual Arts & Crafts Show Golden Crane Japanese Restaurant Rue’s Antique Mall Christmas Parade Half Shell Oyster Bar July 4th Celebration Hooks BBQ Arts and Entertainment Peanut Butter Festival Julia’s Restaurant City of Troy Art Collection Pike County Fair Sisters Restaurant Claudia Crosby Theater Pike County Rodeo Taste and See Colley Senior Complex Art Gallery Pioneer Christmas The BBQ House Home Gallery Pioneer Music Day The Doghouse of Troy Johnson Center for Arts Taste of Pike County Expo The Old Barn Restaurant Malone Art Gallery Troy Fest The Pines Restaurant Troy Council on the Arts Troy-Pike Cultural Arts Center Recreational Facilities Shopping Bicentennial Park Amour Boutique Buffalo Junction Sports Grill Douglas Brothers Jewelry Historical Places City of Troy Sportsplex Pioneer Shopping Village Bashinsky-Crowe-Poole House Franklin Fields Jimmy Lunsford Tennis Complex Carroll Street Memorial Cemetery Knox Street Fields Specialty Shops College Street Historic District L & L Lakes Cakes by Joyce Good Hope Baptist Church & Lake Semmie First Impressions Cemetery Murphree Park Glow Boutique & Sunless Tanning First United Methodist Church Pike County Lakes Jeans Flowers & Gifts Lightfoot House Pine Lakes Maxine’s Flowers & Gifts Little Oak United Methodist Church Troy Batting Range Rena’s Boutique Pike Pioneer Museum Troy Recreational Center Town Square Confederate Memorial Washington Park and Pool Theater Monument We Piddle Around Theater Troy High School Union Springs Primitive Baptist University & Colleges Church and Cemeteries Troy University
Troy, Alabama Victorian Home on College Street Troy Pioneer Museum Covered Bridge RUSSELL COUNTY
GENERAL INFORMATION
Russell County is named in honor of Colonel Gilbert C. Russell, who fought in the wars against the Creek Indians. As of 2000, the population was 49,756. Its county seat is Phenix City. Russell County was established by an act of the state general assembly on December 18, 1832, from lands ceded to the state by the Creek Indians. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 647 square miles. Nearly 641 square miles of it is land, and six square miles of it (0.94%) is water. Russell County Lake
What is it that makes our community unique? Why would someone come to our area? Russell County is home to Fort Mitchell If you are looking for a burst of excitement come to Russell National Cemetery. It is often referred County, the Gateway to East Alabama. If speed is what you like to as the “Arlington of the South.” This you are invited to the East Alabama Motor Speedway. This is a cemetery is the burial place for veterans 3/8 mile, 60 feet wide dirt track. The season begins with dating back to World War I. monster trucks, stock car racing and demolition derbies. The Chattahoochee River and other Phenix City hosts “Thunder on the Hooch,” this is a July 4th lakes have developed into one of the extravaganza and is an exciting event for the entire family. It’s finest fishing areas in the nation. Warm jammed pack with music, games, carnivals, food and arts and waters, coves, shallow backwater, crafts. underwater stumps and over 50 miles of Russell County also offers for your enjoyment, the Phenix City shoreline offer a wide variety of fishing. Riverwalk. The Riverwalk is preserved with most of its natural Largemouth or Black Bass, Crappie, environment, it begins just north of the Amphitheater and (black and white), Bream, Striped and meanders along the Chattahoochee River ending at 13th Street. White Bass are plentiful.
26 RUSSELL COUNTY RUSSELL COUNTY
Colleges & Universities Museums and Art Chattahoochee Valley Community Galleries College Chattachoochee Troy University Indian Heritage Center Cultural Arts Greene Museum Phenix City Amphitheater Phenix City Art Phenix City Riverwalk Gallery
Festivals/Annual Events Parks Annual Rodeo Austin Sumbry Park Christmas Festival of Lights Hatchechubbee Christmas Parade Creek Park Farm-City Week Idle Hour Park Ten- Phenix City Amphitheater Festival of Arts nis Complex May Day Lakewood Park Museum of Wonders Meadow Lake Park Restaurants National 100 Dirt Track Race Southside Park BBQ House Sporting Clay Shoot Chattahoochee River Club Starlight Ball Recreational Activities China Garden Rodeo Bluff Creek City Grill Cafe Thunder on the Hooch Briar Creek Destrain Place Twin Cities Classic Horse Show Calvin Spencer Center El Vaquero Mexican Restaurant Veterans Day Ceremony East Alabama Motor Speedway Highway 165 Barbecue & Fort Mitchell Restaurant Golf Garrett-Harrison Stadium Kountry Kitchen Beaver Creek Golf Course Roy Martin Center Mike & Ed’s Barbecue Lakewood Golf Course Russell County Sports & Recrea- Smokey Pig Barbecue tional Complex Historic Places Tours Apalachicola Fort Site Riverwalk Tours Augustus Benning Walker House Bass Perry House Blessed Trinity Shrine Cedar Heights Plantation Cheryl Mann Hardin Murals & Studio Cliatt Plantation Fort Mitchell National Cemetery Fort Mitchell National Landmark Glenn-Thompson Plantation Glenville Historic District Joel Hurt House Hurtsboro Historic District Samuel R. Pitts Plantation Russell County Courthouse Tuckabatchie Masonic Lodge #96 27 Uchee Methodist Church Fort Mitchell Historic Marker ISSUES AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Issues Recommendations
Customer Service This committee recommends: That a mobile customer service training As the committee traveled around Region 5 unit be put in place to offer this training to one of the top issues identified was the need businesses in the region and throughout for customer service training. the State. Good customer service is the core of any successful business. Tourism is about people, all of whom have customer service needs. When we meet these needs or better yet exceed them, visitors will want to return again and again.
Needs: Funding source for the purchase/lease of the mobile unit Partnership with colleges/universities to develop training curriculum
Marketing This committee recommends: Developing a brochure that would The lack of a structured marketing tool to represent the highlights of each county in promote all of the counties in Region 5. the region and advertise on rack cards in visitors centers throughout the region. Co-op advertising on billboards in Region 5 Better signage on roads in the Region Develop regional theme trails Develop and promote various “staycations” and “daytrip” packages Produce and disseminate Region 5 coupon books Develop website linking all the Region 5 counties and showcasing activities in the counties
Needs: Funding sources to produce the brochure Funding source to acquire billboard space Partnership with the DOT for better road signage within the Region Partnerships and funding sources to produce and distribute coupon books It is essential for every county in the region 28 to have broadband service.
ISSUES AND RECOMMENDATIONS ISSUES AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Issues Recommendations
Lack of Readiness to take advantage of This Committee recommends Film Industry Opportunities That the counties in Region 5 get together and become camera ready by producing a The Region is not ready to take advantage of DVD of areas in the Region that are ready the opportunities available with the film and amenable to attract film industry business business. This production would allow region 5 to have ready and available a product that will showcase the area and the natural attractions.
Needs: The committee and representatives from each county will partner with the Alabama Film Office under the Department of Tourism to produce this tool. Funding sources for the production
What’s Next?
A Challenging economy offers opportunity for partnerships and new ideas. So how do we reach the travelers? We must develop promotional goals within the region and gain practical knowledge, develop social networking advertising, public relations determining campaign themes and effective marketing strategies, and continue to research resources. Learn about successful tourism initiative and examine the role of tourism in neighborhoods, communities and rural regional development.
We will work to develop initiatives to inventory existing natural, cultural and historic attractions. Factors that drive the growth of niche tourism such as sports, agritourism, lifestyle, culinary, heritage and many others will be analyzed. A strategic marketing plan for our niche tourism destinations within the region will be created. Issues such as pricing, perception development and customer service will be examined as we move forward. We will develop an integrated marketing communications campaign for the niche marketing. We will work to acquire the necessary skills to integrate sustainable design principles into long-range visions and the day-to-day development and management of the built environment. This committee will continue to build on community development programs and visitor facilities within the region. The committee will seek to provide educational workshops in land use, smart growth, rural/urban design, environmental site design, brown fill redevelopment strategies. This plan will also include diversity and sensitivity training as well as crisis management.
29 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Special Thanks to Participating Partners
Amanda Brasington, ECEDA Tourism & Fannie Davis, Jonathan Daniels Memorial Recreation Coordinator Frank White, Director of Alabama Andy Benefield, ARAC Special Assistant Historical Commission Appalachian Regional Commission Fred Gray, Attorney at Law (Tuskegee) Barbara Evans, Lowndes County Okra Garrysa Caffey, Tuskegee Chamber of Festival Commerce Bessie Sharp, Special Assistant to Senator Gerald Dial, Senator Gerald Dial Janet Ormond, Chattahoochee Valley Brian Reynolds, Greenville Chamber of Community College Commerce President Jeddo Bell, Grenville Chamber of Commerce Carol Staller, Crenshaw County EIDA Jennifer Machen, Alabama Power – Catherine Jordan, Troy Tourism Greenville Area Chad Nichols, ARAC Executive Director Jerry Willis, Mayor City of Wetumpka Charlie King, Lowndes County Jim Byard, Mayor City of Prattville Commissioner Jimmy Lunsford, Mayor City of Troy Charlie Thompson, Tuskegee Chamber of Joe R. Sport, Mayor City of Luverne Commerce Joe Wood, City of Wetumpka David Daniel, Mayor City of Hayneville John Jackson, Mayor City of Whitehall Dawn Hathcock, Montgomery Chamber of John McGowan, Mayor City of Union Springs Commerce CVB Laurie Stewart, ARAC Special Projects Deborah Gray, Tuskegee Human & Civil Assistant Rights Multicultural Center Lee Sentell, Director of Alabama Tourism Dexter McLendon, Mayor City of Greenville Department Dr. Daniel Boyd, Supt. Lowndes County Macon County Economic Development Schools Mike Beverly, Golf Pro – Robert Trent Jones Dorothy Walker, Alabama Historical Golf Trail at Capitol Hill Commission Richard Lindsey, Rep. Alabama House Earl Hilliard, Rep. Alabama House District District 39 60 Robyn Bridges, Auburn/Opelika Tourism Earl Reeves, Elmore County Commission Bureau Elizabeth Barbaree-Tasker, Auburn Rod Morgan, Finance Director Prattville University Urban Studio Ron Smith, Bullock County Commissioner Ellen Burkett, Priester’s Pecans Shirley Baxter, National Parks Service Ellen Mertins, Alabama Historical Commission Stacey Little, Alabama Historical Commission Elmore County Museum, Wetumpka Tandi Mitchell, Hotel Solutions of Alabama Emily Law, ARAC Assistant Director Tom Miller, Prattville City Council Eric Alford, Bass Pro Shops Prattville Tommy Fell, Alabama Film Office ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ABBREVIATIONS
AACPM - Alabama Association of Certified CTIS - Certified Travel Industry Specialist Public Managers CTP - Certified Tour Professional AACVB - Alabama Association of Convention & CVB - Convention & Visitors Bureau Visitor Bureaus DMO - Domestic Marketing Organization ABA - American Bus Association ECEDA-Elmore County Economic ACOC - Alabama Chamber of Commerce Development Authority ADECA - Alabama Department of Economic & EIDA - Economic Industrial Development Community Affairs Authority ADO - Alabama Development Office FAM - Familiarization Tour AFC - Alabama Film Commission IACVB - International Association Convention AGCT - Alabama Governor’s Conference Visitor Bureaus on Tourism MPI - Meeting Planners International AHA - Alabama Hospitality Association NR - National Register of Historic Sites AHC - Alabama Historical Commission NTA - National Tour Association AMLA - Alabama Mountain Lakes Association RAI - Rural Alabama Initiative APA - Alabama Preservation Alliance RETREAT - Alabama Welcome Center Retreat AR - Alabama Register of Historic Sites RevPar - Revenue Per Available Room ARAC - Alabama Rural Action Commission RFP - Request for Proposal ATC - Alabama Travel Council RSA - Retirement Systems of Alabama ATD - Alabama Tourism Department RTJ - Robert Trent Jones Golf Trails ATP - Alabama Tourism Partnership SCAAC - South Central Alabama CMP - Certified Marketing Professional Action Commission COC - Chamber of Commerce STR - Smith Travel Research CPM - Certified Public Manager STS - Southeast Tourism Society TS - Travel South USA