Marion AlabamaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Marion, Alabama.
1. Perry Lakes Park
NATURE AND WILDLIFE PRESERVE
Perry Lakes Park offers visitors a scenic outdoor experience with walking trails, birdwatching towers, and access to the Cahaba River. The park is known for its diverse habitats, native wildlife, and peaceful picnic areas for families and nature enthusiasts. It is a favorite spot in Marion for birders and photographers looking to explore Alabama's natural beauty.
2. Moore-Webb-Holmes Plantation
HISTORIC WORKING PLANTATION
Moore-Webb-Holmes Plantation is a preserved site dating back to 1819, showcasing original buildings and agricultural heritage. The plantation is one of Alabama's few continuously operating family farms, offering glimpses into Southern rural life across generations. Guided tours provide insights into the history, architecture, and evolving agriculture of the region.
3. Kenworthy Hall
NATIONAL HISTORIC LANDMARK
Kenworthy Hall is an impressive Italianate mansion built between 1858 and 1860 and is listed as a National Historic Landmark. The building is celebrated for its striking architecture and historical significance tied to the antebellum South. Though privately owned, the exterior remains a point of interest for architecture enthusiasts and history buffs.
4. Marion Military Institute and Museum
MILITARY HERITAGE CAMPUS
The Marion Military Institute boasts a storied campus with historic halls such as Lovelace Hall and the Chapel, both listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Its on-site museum, the Alabama Military Hall of Honor, honors the legacy of military leaders and alumni. Visitors can admire the institution's rich tradition and architecture while learning about military education in Alabama.
5. Judson College Historic District
HISTORIC WOMEN'S COLLEGE
The Judson College Historic District encompasses the former campus of Alabama's first women's college, founded in 1838. Its classic Southern architecture and tree-lined streets reflect Marion's educational and cultural heritage. Though Judson College closed in 2021, its historic buildings remain a symbol of the city's academic tradition.
6. Perry County Courthouse
19TH-CENTURY COURTHOUSE
The Perry County Courthouse stands at the heart of Marion, with imposing columns and period architecture dating from the 19th century. The courthouse is an important landmark, serving as a focal point for civic life and local history. Its location in the Courthouse Square Historic District makes it a centerpiece of Marion's downtown.
7. Green Street Historic District
ANTEBELLUM STRUCTURES WALK
Green Street Historic District features a remarkable collection of antebellum homes and structures dating back to the pre-Civil War era. Visitors can stroll through the district to admire well-preserved architecture and manicured gardens. The area provides insight into the residential life of Marion's prosperous past.
8. West Marion Historic District
HISTORIC NEIGHBORHOOD TOUR
West Marion Historic District is home to notable properties like the Reverie Historic Home and represents the architectural development of Marion through the 19th and early 20th centuries. The district's quiet streets are lined with historic residences, reflecting a range of Victorian and Greek Revival styles. This area offers a picturesque and informative walking tour for visitors.
9. Marion Courthouse Square Historic District
DOWNTOWN HISTORIC CORE
The Marion Courthouse Square Historic District anchors the city's downtown, with preserved commercial buildings and the iconic courthouse. This district captures the charm of small-town Alabama with unique architecture and locally owned businesses. It is a vibrant center for community events and festivals.
10. Lincoln Normal School Campus and Museum
AFRICAN-AMERICAN EDUCATION HERITAGE
The Lincoln Normal School Campus and Museum commemorates one of Alabama's earliest schools for African-American students. Its museum displays artifacts and memorabilia, chronicling the school's pivotal role in advancing education and civil rights. The site preserves an important chapter of Alabama's social and educational history.
11. Siloam Baptist Church
HISTORIC BAPTIST CHURCH
Siloam Baptist Church, established in 1848, played a significant role in the formation of several Baptist organizations and conventions. Its distinctive brick architecture and historic cemetery make it a destination for both spiritual reflection and historical exploration. The church continues to serve an active congregation in Marion.
12. Phillips Memorial Auditorium
COMMUNITY EVENTS VENUE
Phillips Memorial Auditorium hosts a variety of cultural events, performances, and local gatherings inside a historic setting. The auditorium is an architectural gem and community hub known for its excellent acoustics and welcoming atmosphere. It remains a centerpiece for Marion's arts and public life.
13. The Shack
LOCAL SOUTHERN RESTAURANT
The Shack is a popular eatery known for authentic Southern comfort food and friendly service. Guests enjoy classics like fried chicken, barbecue, and homemade desserts in a relaxed setting. This restaurant is a staple for locals and visitors craving traditional Alabama flavors.
14. Marion Military Institute Golf Course
PUBLIC GOLF FACILITY
The Marion Military Institute Golf Course offers a nine-hole layout ideal for recreational golfers and students of the institute. The course is nestled among the rolling hills of the campus, providing scenic views and a casual playing atmosphere. It is open to visitors, making it a favorite leisure option in Marion.
15. The Vault
BOUTIQUE CONSIGNMENT SHOPPING
The Vault is a boutique-style consignment shop located in downtown Marion, featuring an eclectic mix of clothing, accessories, and home decor items. Shoppers are drawn to its carefully curated selection and regularly changing inventory. The shop offers a unique retail experience and is a go-to spot for finding one-of-a-kind treasures.