Situated alongside the longest free-flowing river in Alabama – and one of the country's most biologically diverse – the Cahaba River area is full of beautiful scenery and historic places. The cities along the river's path are the kinds of places many would consider to be dream hometowns. You'll find endless outdoor recreation, some of the tastiest peaches in the world and the best of small-town life within a 45-minute drive of Birmingham.
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What To See & Do
Perry Lakes Park and Barton's Beach Cahaba River Preserve
Explore a 700-acre park with a trail to the Cahaba River beach preserve.
Brierfield Ironworks Historical State Park
Restored structures, an inn, trails and campsites make up this furnace and mill site.
Peach Park
Indulge in homemade ice cream, fresh fruit, cobblers, fried pies, barbecue and more while strolling the gardens and market.
Oakmulgee District of Talladega National Forest
The Lake Payne Recreation Area is one of the most popular places in the forest.
Confederate Memorial Park
Alabama's only Confederate veterans home sits on 102 acres. Visit the site's two cemeteries, see Civil War relics and explore the nature trail.
Moore-Webb-Holmes Plantation
The same family has owned this working plantation since 1819. Stop by the country store or visit the blacksmith shop.
Where To Stay
The Folsom Inn
Enjoy a continental breakfast, relax on the front porch and walk the nature trails at this inn located at the Moore-Webb-Holmes Plantation.
Myrtle Hill
Surrounded by 12 acres of beautiful flower gardens and waterfalls, this restored antebellum home offers a unique lodging experience.
Donavan Lakes Fishing Club and Donavan Inn
This fishing club and inn offers both campgrounds and indoor accommodations.
Rolling Hills RV Park
Located in Calera, Rolling Hills RV Park sits on 83 acres complete with a lake, pool, conference center and 58 RV sites with full hookups.
Where To Eat
Tin Top Bar B Q
Tin Top in Calera has become known for its ribs. Owner John Culbert has more than 35 years of pit experience.
Whillard's BBQ & Grill
This no-frills short-order joint claims to have the best hamburgers in the South, and locals tend to agree.
Durbin Farms Market
In operation since 1938, Durbin Farms Market is known for its homemade peach ice cream and fresh fruit.
Heaton Pecan Farm
From candies and fudge to whole pecans and pecan meal, Heaton Pecan Farm offers just about any pecan product you can think of.