Road Tripping: Exploring the Top 5 Attractions between Calera and Oxford, Alabama

You're in for an adventure! From exploring natural landscapes to discovering historical sites, this road trip promises to be a trip to remember. So fasten your seatbelts, grab some snacks, and let's explore the top five attractions along the way.

A pitstop at Leeds: Halfway Point

Leeds, Alabama is where travelers heading to the cities of Birmingham, Anniston, and Montgomery often stop and stretch their legs. Nonetheless, it has evolved into a destination on its own. It's the perfect place to stop and recharge before continuing to Oxford. The town boasts several eateries, antique shops, and cozy accommodations.

Top 5 Places to See List

1. Oak Mountain State Park

Located in Pelham, Oak Mountain State Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers. It offers about 10,000 acres of forested hills and beautiful lakes, offering ample opportunities for hiking, camping, birding, and fishing. Don't miss the park's wildlife center and nature trail, both of which will give you a glimpse of the local fauna and flora.

2. Talladega Superspeedway

For speed enthusiasts, Talladega Superspeedway is an attraction worth exploring. The track, located in Lincoln, Alabama, is a NASCAR track and holds twin auto racing events twice every year. Speed freaks will appreciate the thrill of watching high-performance cars race by at mind-bending speeds.

3. Anniston Museum of Natural History

The Anniston Museum of Natural History, located in Anniston, offers visitors an insight into the natural world. The museum features exhibits about geology, archaeology, and biology, and includes artifacts from animal and dinosaur remains to fossils. Visitors have a chance to view preserved animals in natural habitats, including jaguars, lions, and bears.

4. Cheaha Mountain State Park

Cheaha Mountain State Park, located in Delta, is one of Alabama's highest points, and the state's oldest continuously operating state park. It's an ideal destination for outdoor lovers, with cabins, camping sites, geologic wonders, and hiking trails. The park provides opportunities to explore several natural attractions, including the 'Mountain Top Trail,' the 'Bald Rock Boardwalk Trail,' and the 'Providence Canyon Trail,' among others.

5. Talladega National Forest

Located north of Oxford and covering over 392,000 acres of wilderness, Talladega National Forest offers a grand display of nature at its best. It offers opportunities for camping, swimming, hiking, and fishing. The forest consists of three ranger districts, containing several attractions, such as the Oakmulgee District, the Shoal Creek District, and the Talladega District.

The Perfect Route

From Calera, head north towards Leeds and stay for lunch, sightseeing, or an overnight stay. Continue on the Interstate 20 East after leaving Leeds, and take exit 140 to the Oak Mountain State Park. From here, head north towards Talladega Superspeedway, and then go east towards Anniston. From here, head south to the Cheaha Mountain State Park before heading north again to reach the Talladega National Forest. Finally, head east towards Oxford on the Interstate 20 until you reach your final destination.

With so many attractions to visit, you will need several days to explore them all fully. However, you can take snaps, make memories, and enjoy the journey. Have a great trip!