Old Cahawba Archaeological Park: Alabama's Ghost Capital
Explore Alabama's first capital, a ghost town where history and nature intertwine. Discover ruins, trails, and stories of the past.
Explore the haunting ruins of Old Cahawba, Alabama's first permanent state capital (1820-1825). This archaeological park offers a glimpse into the past with scattered ruins, historic cemeteries, and interpretive signs, all set amidst a landscape where nature has reclaimed the once-thriving town [2, 3, 5].
A brief summary to Old Cahawba Archaeological Park
- 9518 Cahaba Rd, Orrville, Alabama, 36767, US
- +1334-872-8058
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking and exploring the ruins and trails [8].
- Bring insect repellent, especially during warmer months [8].
- Visit the Welcome Center first to get self-guided brochures and instructions for exploring the park [2, 3].
- Consider borrowing bicycles from the visitor center to tour the site [6, 8].
Getting There
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Driving
From Selma, Alabama, take AL-22 West for approximately 9 miles [3, 14]. Turn left onto County Road 9 and follow it for about 3.3 miles. Turn left onto County Road 2 and continue for 1.4 miles until you see the Visitor Center on the right [3, 7, 19]. Parking is available at the Visitor Center [3, 17]. Note that portions of the route follow along the Cahaba River [4, 6].
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From Orrville, a taxi or ride-share is the most direct way to reach Old Cahawba Archaeological Park. The trip is approximately 5 miles and should take around 10-15 minutes [1, 2, 3]. Expect to pay around $15-$25 for the ride [1]. There are no mandatory access fees or tolls.
Discover more about Old Cahawba Archaeological Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Old Cahawba Prairie Preserve
1.9 km
Explore the serene landscapes and rich history of Old Cahawba Prairie Preserve in Orrville, Alabama, a perfect escape for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Adams Grove Presbyterian Church
8.7 km
Discover a beautifully preserved antebellum church and cemetery in rural Alabama, offering a glimpse into the past and a touch of the paranormal.
The Sandbar
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Bloch Park
11.3 km
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Riverview Historic District
11.7 km
Experience the rich history and stunning architecture of Riverview Historic District in Selma, Alabama, a testament to the nation's past.
Icehouse Historic District
12.2 km
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905 Gallery
12.4 km
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Organpi Farms Farmhouse
12.5 km
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Queen City Kale
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Sleeping Prophet Edgar Cayce Memorial
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Bridgetender's House
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Mabry-Jones House
12.7 km
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St. James Hotel Selma, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
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John Tyler Morgan House
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The Coffee Shoppe
12.8 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Lions Fair Park
8.8 km
A community hub in Selma, Alabama, hosting the Central Alabama Fair and various local events year-round.
New Live Oak Cemetery
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Vaughan Smitherman Museum
12.1 km
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National Voting Rights Museum and Institute
12.3 km
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Civil Rights Memorial Park
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Edmund Pettus Bridge
12.5 km
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Old Town Historic District
12.6 km
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Sturdivant Hall Museum
12.6 km
Discover the captivating history and craftsmanship of Alabama at Sturdivant Hall Museum, a must-visit gem in Selma.
Selma Interpretive Center of the Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail
12.6 km
Discover the pivotal Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail, commemorating the Voting Rights Movement. Currently closed for renovations until 2028.
Historic Riverfront Park
12.8 km
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Enslavement & Civil War Museum
12.9 km
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Bridge Crossing Jubilee
12.9 km
Commemorating 'Bloody Sunday' and the Selma to Montgomery marches, honoring civil rights heroes, and inspiring the fight for voting rights.
Old Depot Museum
13.1 km
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Brown Chapel AME Church
13.3 km
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Tabernacle Baptist Church
13.4 km
Visit the historic Tabernacle Baptist Church in Selma, a cornerstone of the Voting Rights Movement and a testament to African-American resilience.
Essential places to dine
Hancocks Barbeque
7.3 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Hancocks Barbeque in Selma, AL—where every bite is a taste of tradition and flavor.
Jack's
9.6 km
Experience authentic Southern fast food at Jack's in Selma - where hearty meals meet friendly service in a welcoming atmosphere.
Hancock Bbq
11.0 km
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Dallas Bar-B-Que
12.2 km
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Reflections Coffee Shoppe
12.5 km
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Lannie's Bar-B-Q #2
12.5 km
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Gab n grab
12.6 km
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5 & Dime
12.7 km
Experience authentic American cuisine at 5 & Dime in Selma, Alabama - where every meal tells a story.
Sterling's
12.7 km
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Bistro Manila (and Boba Manila)
12.7 km
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MK87
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The Downtowner Restaurant
12.7 km
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Macks Amillion Daiquiri shop
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Munch Box
12.8 km
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Xpression
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Minit Shop
12.0 km
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Frames 'N Things
12.0 km
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Johnny's Package Store
12.3 km
Explore Johnny's Package Store in Selma, AL - your go-to spot for local liquor, convenience services, and a taste of Southern hospitality.
Selma Curb Market
12.3 km
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Gantt Candies LLC
12.6 km
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Cotton House
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Cahaba Products
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Queen City Market
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Broad Street Books
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allez-oup
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Gordon's Antiques and Estate Sales
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On Time Fashions
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This & That
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Odds and Ends Gift Shop
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Snack Store
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
King Bar
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Mary Taylor Bar
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Mitchell Bar
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Rifleman Bar
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Upper Sister Bar
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Dallas County
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Sparkle's Saloon
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Dripz Lounge
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Michael's Pub
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XPLOSION
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Southern Comfort Lounge
14.5 km
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Middle Sister Bar
14.8 km
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Providence Bar
16.6 km
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Dallas County Moose Lodge 1737
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Upper Portland Bar
18.2 km
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