Sweet Home Alabama is home to some pretty sweet roadside attractions, but it’s the wacky ones that stand out the most. Offering world-renowned “big” attractions and historic relics from some of the world’s most well-known names, Alabama is packed to the brim with all things weird.

So join us as we Jurnii across Alabama and discover what is so sweet about it!

1. Hitler’s Typewriter: Bessemer, Alabama

As morbid as Hitler memorabilia may be, it’s hard for many to ignore their inquisitive nature about history’s most reviled maniac. Keepsakes of this hated man are scattered all across the country, but it’s the town of Bessemer, Alabama, that has the most interesting of the lot.

Hitler’s typewriter is the most popular exhibit in this Hall of History and folks around here like to push the point that “orders that marched armies to their death were typed here”. Slightly sinister yes, but it doesn’t stop the crowds lining up to check out this incredible slice of history.

2. African Village in America: Birmingham, Alabama

As far as weird and wacky in Alabama goes, there really is nothing stranger than Birmingham’s African Village. Joe Minter has been developing this tribute to African-America in his backyard since 1989, and all attractions have been built from the likes of old sports equipment, baking pans, footwear, toys and Christmas lawn decorations.

Most of Joe’s creations carry or moral or political message so if you look hard enough you will begin to recognize the hidden messages this park is trying to put across.

3. Ave Maria Grotto: Cullman, Alabama

Finding a Grotto on the roadside that isn’t, well grotty, is a hard feat, but you may just be pleasantly surprised when you come across the Ave Maria Grotto in Cullman, Alabama.

This Grotto pays tribute to the world’s most important religious structures, along with fascinating structures like the Leaning Tower of Pisa and Hansel and Gretel’s Temple of the Fairies.

4. DeSoto Caverns: Childersburg, Alabama

More than just a hole in the ground, the DeSoto Caverns are an ideal kiddies attraction, with more novelty attractions than some theme parks. Pan for gold and run around the maze, and be sure to check out the 2000-year-old jaw bone of a 7-foot tall Woodland Indian.

However it’s the caves that are really set to amaze, with their frozen Niagaras and Stalactites never failing to disappoint.

5. World’s Largest Chair Battle: Anniston, Alabama

The ongoing battle for the title of “World’s Largest Chair” has been amusing Americans for over a century. However it wasn’t until 1981 that one was erected in Anniston, Alabama. The chair was set to break all records at an impressive 31-foot tall and was constructed using 10 tons of steel.

This chair is one for the ages and is the town’s claim to fame.

-Chrissy

Do you call Alabama home? Tell us about your strangest experiences here in the comments below.

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