We’ve covered what makes Alabama’s largest cities special (click here), but now let’s shine the spotlight on a few cities that, according to Home Snacks, are quickly growing and making a name for themselves. Here’s part two of your guide to Alabama’s fastest-growing cities.
About: Calerawas established in the late 1880s and named after the Spanish word for “quarry” due to all of the large limestone deposits in the area. Several major railroads connect in Calera and it’s close to some of Alabama’s biggest cities, like Birmingham and Montgomery, making it a prime location for industry.
Attractions: No visit to Calera is complete without stopping by the Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum to ride the train and learn more about the train industry. We also suggest planning a trip to Ozan Winery & Vineyard if you want to sample a few wines and schedule a private tour. Timberline Golf Club is a great spot if you want to brush up on your game while you’re in Calera.
Fun Fact: Calera is known as the “Heart of the Heart of Dixie” because of its central location in Alabama.
About: Spanish Fort actually started out in the early 1700s as a trading post established by the French during their occupation of Mobile prior to the signing of the Treaty of Paris. It officially became U.S. property after the War of 1812. During the Civil War, Spanish Fort was an important Confederate defense location. After the war, the area stayed largely undeveloped until the 1970s. Spanish Fort was finally incorporated as its own city in the early 1990s. Today, the city’s economy is mostly dependent on commercial centers. It was recently ranked as one of the “Best Cities for Young Families in Alabama” by NerdWallet.
Attractions: The 5 Rivers Delta Center, located in Meaher State Park, is a cool place to visit if you want to experience the area’s natural beauty and learn more about the local rivers. Speaking of Meaher State Park, you should make plans to check out what the entire park has to offer while you’re in Spanish Fort.
Fun Fact: Many street names in Spanish Fort are inspired by the Civil War.
About: Roberstdale began as a farm town in the early 1900s after a railroad was built in the area. It’s centrally located within Baldwin County, making it convenient and accessible.
Attractions: Robertsdale is home to one of the few Buc-ee’s locations in Alabama, and we think it’s worth stopping at if you’re passing through. If you’re into guns, you should visit the Styx River Shooting Center while you’re in town.
Fun Fact: Apple CEO Tim Cook grew up in Robertsdale.
About: Wetumpka was originally the site of a French trading post, Ft. Toulouse, on the Coosa River during the early 1700s. During the War of 1812, Andrew Jackson set up his headquarters in Wetumpka and called it Fort Jackson. After the war, Wetumpka became an important agricultural center in the River Region. Today, Wetumpka is on the move— the city was recently featured on HGTV’s Hometown Takeover.
Attractions: There aren’t many casinos in Alabama, but Wetumpka is home to Wind Creek Casino & Resort. If you’re into history and are in the mood to do a bit of walking, Fort Toulouse-Jackson Park is another great place to visit. Lastly, if you’re feeling daring, we suggest booking some time on the river with Coosa River Adventures.
Fun Fact: Remains of a set from Tim Burton’s Big Fish can be found on Jackson Lake Island in Wetumpka.
About: Auburn was originally intended to be East Alabama’s center for religion and education. The city’s major claim to fame, Auburn University, was founded in 1859 and became Alabama’s first four-year college to admit women in 1892. After WWII, Auburn’s population began growing due to an influx of college students eager to use their G.I. Bills. Today, most of the city’s economy is still based on industries and facilities related to Auburn University
Attractions: If you can snag tickets, we definitely suggest catching a home football game at Jordan-Hare Stadium while you’re in Auburn. At the very least, go take a look at the iconic Toomer’s Corner and stop by Toomer’s Drugs for a glass of lemonade and an ice cream cone. We also recommend taking a trip to Chewacla State Park to see more of what makes this area so naturally beautiful. Art lovers are sure to enjoy a visit to Auburn’s Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art.
Fun Fact: Tim Cook, CEO of Apple, went to Auburn University.
