10 Reasons Why Alabama Is Way More Interesting Than You Ever Thought

Beyond the Southern charm

Alabama is known for its rich history, southern charm, and college football, but did you know it’s also home to some of the weirdest, most fascinating facts in the country?

Some of these things you might never even have guessed. If we got your attention, keep scrolling.

There is a unique military attraction that you need to see ASAP

American warships end their life after wartime, but what if we say that that doesn’t have to be the case in USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park? Here, you could see and admire the aging warship. There is a super-secret spy plane, the famous “Mighty A,” the oldest American submarine, and some tanks & artillery.

A bright little creature carries a huge significance

Alabama’s state bird is the Yellowhammer, and it has always been that way since 1927. These birds are known for their hard work, resourcefulness, and industrious nature, which is associated with the spirit of those who built Alamaba’s industrial success in the early 20th century.

Alabam is home to the Rickwood Field baseball stadium

a.k.a. the nation’s oldest operating ballpark. How cool is that?

You’ll find the highest point of the state 2,407 feet above sea level

Has the Cheaha Mountain ever come up in your itinerary? Well, that is the highest point in Alabama and is also the centerpiece of the oldest continuously operating state park, Cheaha State Park.

The world’s largest cast-iron statue standing 56-foot tall can be found here

Alabama has an interesting history forged from iron. It is what made it the economic influencer that it is now. If the fact isn’t obvious, then you need to see the statue of the Roman god Vulcan, god of fire and forge, pronto. It proves just that. Today, it remains one of the most memorable works of civil art in the country.

Think twice before wearing a fake mustache in church

Alabama has some odd laws, but this one stands out. Believe it or not — it is technically illegal to wear a fake mustache in church if it causes laughter or any kind of disruption. While rarely enforced, this law remains on the books, adding to the state’s quirky legal history.

This state is the birthplace of the Mardi Gras celebration in the U.S.

Many people associate Mardi Gras with New Orleans, but the first Mardi Gras celebration in America actually took place in Mobile, Alabama, in 1703—decades before Louisiana became a state.

A meteorite once hit a woman in Alabama

While this sounds too crazy to believe, it’s based on a true story. In 1954, Ann Hodges of Sylacauga, Alabama, became the first known person in history to be struck by a meteorite. The space rock crashed through her roof and hit her while she was napping on the couch, leaving a giant bruise on her thigh.

Bargain hunters will probably love Unclaimed Baggage

We’re talking about an actual place here, and it’s a shopper’s paradise. Scottsboro, Alabama, is home to the Unclaimed Baggage Center, where lost and unclaimed airline luggage is resold. Travelers can find everything from designer clothes to rare artifacts at discounted prices. You just have to have a good eye and some luck.

There are many weird places in Alabama

The state is home to hilariously named towns such as Frog Eye, Burnout, Lick Skillet, Scratch Ankle, and Slapout among others. Who was even in charge of naming these spots?

The locals are serious about BBQ (both the meat and sauce)

So much so that there is an official championship just for it. The “Alabama State Championship BBQ Cook-Off” is one to look out for as it gathers all the top pitmasters from across the country.

Don’t get the impression that Alabama is home to unhealthy food, though. That’s one of the things everyone gets wrong about this state.

It more than meets the eye

It’s not surprising to know that a state has so much to offer. Alabama is no exception. But just imagine having all these interesting and quirky stories — from a space incident to bizarre laws and unique traditions. If there’s one takeaway for the curious at heart – this place is definitely worth visiting.

Are you in need of more spots to visit? Check out this read on 13 things you’ll only find in Alabama and nowhere else.