Monroeville AlabamaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Monroeville, Alabama.
1. Old Monroe County Courthouse and Heritage Museum
HISTORIC LITERARY LANDMARK
The Old Monroe County Courthouse and Heritage Museum occupies the historic courthouse building in the heart of Monroeville, best known for its association with writers Harper Lee and Truman Capote. The museum features a fully restored courtroom along with two permanent exhibits – 'Harper Lee: In Her Own Words' and 'Truman Capote: A Childhood in Monroeville.' Visitors can step back in time as they explore this significant literary landmark located at 31 North Alabama Avenue.
2. Literary Capital Sculpture Trail
BRONZE LITERARY TRIBUTES
The Literary Capital Sculpture Trail features 14 bronze sculptures on permanent exhibit throughout Historic Downtown Monroeville. These impressive artworks honor the 10 writers credited with making Monroeville and Monroe County the Literary Capital of Alabama. Visitors can follow the trail using brochures available at the Monroe County Museum, Chamber of Commerce, or local downtown shops.
3. A Celebration of Reading Statue
TRIBUTE TO LITERARY HERITAGE
The Celebration of Reading Statue was commissioned by the Monroeville-Monroe County Chamber of Commerce to honor the city's rich literary heritage. This striking bronze statue reflects Monroeville's status as the Literary Capital of Alabama and Harper Lee's birthplace. It stands as a testament to the community's passion for literature and reading.
4. Walk Monroeville Tour
SELF-GUIDED HISTORICAL STROLL
Walk Monroeville Tour offers visitors and residents alike a self-guided journey through the city's major historical and literary sites. The walking tour provides a comprehensive look at Monroeville's significant landmarks while allowing participants to experience authentic southern hospitality. It's an ideal way for knowledge-seekers to explore the cultural richness of this Alabama community.
5. Faulk Property
CAPOTE'S CHILDHOOD CONNECTION
The Faulk Property on South Alabama Avenue is a National Register site where Truman Capote visited as a child. The property retains its original rock wall and the site of the goldfish pond, preserving elements from Capote's formative years. Located next to Mel's Dairy Dream, this historic site offers literary enthusiasts a glimpse into the childhood influences of one of America's renowned writers.
6. Vanity Fair Golf Club
SCENIC RECREATIONAL DESTINATION
The Vanity Fair Golf Club provides a picturesque setting for golf enthusiasts visiting Monroeville. Located at 613 Golf Drive, this recreational facility offers a well-maintained course for players of all skill levels. The club serves as one of the area's primary outdoor activity venues for both locals and tourists.
7. Monroeville Downtown Shopping District
CHARMING RETAIL EXPERIENCE
Monroeville's Downtown Shopping District features a variety of gift shops, antique stores, and home furnishing boutiques. Shoppers can explore unique offerings ranging from books and antiques to clothing, jewelry, and specialty gifts. The Monroeville Main Street district provides maps to help visitors navigate this charming shopping area.
8. Truman Capote Historical Marker
LITERARY LEGEND TRIBUTE
The Truman Capote Historical Marker commemorates one of Monroeville's most famous literary sons. This point of interest highlights Capote's connection to the town and his significant contributions to American literature. Visitors interested in literary tourism often include this marker as an essential stop on their Monroeville itinerary.
9. Lyle Salter Park
PEACEFUL COMMUNITY SPACE
Lyle Salter Park, located at the intersection of South Alabama Avenue and Claiborne Street, offers a tranquil green space in Monroeville. The park features beautiful landscaping and provides residents and visitors with a place for recreation and relaxation. It serves as one of the community gathering spots in the heart of the city.
10. Monroeville Rose Garden
FRAGRANT FLORAL DISPLAY
The Monroeville Rose Garden showcases over 90 different varieties of roses meticulously maintained by the Monroeville Garden Club. The garden features a gazebo commonly used for weddings and other special functions. A war memorial with an Eternal Flame dedicated to area veterans adds historical significance to this beautiful floral attraction.
11. Freedom Quilting Bee Legacy
ARTISTIC CULTURAL HERITAGE
The Freedom Quilting Bee Legacy celebrates the rich quilting traditions of Monroe County and surrounding areas. This attraction highlights the artistic and cultural contributions of local quilters, particularly from African American communities. Visitors can learn about the historical significance of quilting as both an art form and economic enterprise in the region.
12. The River Gallery
LOCAL ART SHOWCASE
The River Gallery serves as Monroeville's premier venue for displaying works by local and regional artists. This cultural space offers changing exhibitions that showcase diverse artistic styles and mediums throughout the year. Art enthusiasts visiting Monroeville appreciate this gallery for its commitment to promoting creative expression in Alabama's Literary Capital.
13. Mel's Dairy Dream
ICONIC LOCAL EATERY
Mel's Dairy Dream is a beloved local establishment serving classic American comfort food and ice cream treats in Monroeville. Located near the historic Faulk Property on South Alabama Avenue, this eatery has become a community institution over the years. Visitors and locals alike enjoy stopping by for a taste of authentic southern hospitality and delicious fare.
14. Frisco City Town Park
HISTORIC SMALL-TOWN CHARM
Frisco City Town Park, located just outside Monroeville, features several historic structures including the J.W. Jones home, for whom the town was originally named. The park also preserves the Jones Mill one-room schoolhouse, offering visitors a glimpse into the area's past. This nearby attraction provides a perfect complement to Monroeville's literary sites for those interested in regional history.
15. Black Belt Treasures Cultural Arts Center
REGIONAL ARTISTIC HUB
The Black Belt Treasures Cultural Arts Center showcases the artistic talents of creators from across Alabama's Black Belt region near Monroeville. This cultural hub features works from over 450 artists including paintings, pottery, quilts, woodwork, jewelry, and literature. Visitors can browse and purchase unique handcrafted items while learning about the rich artistic heritage of the area.