World's Smallest City Block: Dothan's Quirky Claim to Fame
Discover Dothan's quirky charm at the World's Smallest City Block, a testament to Americana's unique side, and explore the city's rich history [4].
In the heart of Dothan, Alabama, lies a peculiar attraction that has captured the imagination of travelers and locals alike: the World's Smallest City Block [4, 13, 16]. This diminutive, triangular piece of land, nestled between North Appletree Street, North College Street, and East Troy Street, presents an unusual spectacle in the urban landscape [4, 7, 8, 13, 16]. It's not just a tiny space; it's a celebration of the quirky side of Americana, where the ordinary is turned on its head [4, 13]. The story of this minuscule city block dates back to 1964 when it was officially recognized by 'Ripley's Believe It or Not!' as the smallest of its kind [3, 4, 7, 8, 13, 16]. The Camellia Garden Club of Dothan commemorated this distinction with a granite monument, proudly proclaiming the site's unique status [3, 4, 13, 16]. This monument remains to this day, a tangible reminder of Dothan's place in the world of oddities [4, 13, 16]. The World Record Academy also certifies the world record [7, 8, 16]. Measuring just a few feet on each side, the triangle is smaller than many living rooms [4, 13, 16]. It's easily missed if you're not paying attention [4, 13]. Yet, despite its size, the World's Smallest City Block packs a visual punch [4, 13]. A stop sign, a yield sign, and a street sign stand sentinel, adding to the surreal quality of the scene [3, 4, 7, 8, 13]. It's a place where the rules of the road seem to apply on a miniature scale, a reminder that even the smallest spaces can have their own distinct character [4, 13]. Historically, the site wasn't always an empty triangle [4, 13, 16]. In the 1920s, a snack shop occupied the land, offering refreshments to passersby [3, 4, 7, 8, 13, 16]. Later, in 1931, a two-story building was erected, housing a gas station on the ground floor [4, 7, 8, 13, 16]. The building stood for nearly two decades [4, 16]. The exact reasons for the demolition remain shrouded in mystery, adding to the site's enigmatic appeal [4, 8, 16]. Today, the World's Smallest City Block is more than just a roadside attraction; it's a symbol of Dothan's unique identity [4, 13, 16]. It’s a popular spot for photo opportunities [3, 7].
Local tips
- Snap a photo with the monument and street signs to commemorate your visit to this one-of-a-kind landmark [4, 13].
- Combine your visit with a stroll through downtown Dothan to see the city's collection of whimsical peanut statues and wall murals [4, 19].
- Visit the nearby Wiregrass Museum of Art, located directly across from the World's Smallest City Block [19].
A brief summary to World's Smallest City Block
- 201-209 N College St, Dothan, Alabama, 36303, US
- +1229-308-4121
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Getting There
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Walking
From the Dothan City Civic Center, the World's Smallest City Block is a short walk behind the building [4, 13]. Head north towards East Troy Street, then turn left. The block is located at the intersection of North Appletree Street, North College Street, and East Troy Street [3, 4, 7, 8, 13, 16]. The monument is easily visible from the sidewalk [13].
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Public Transport
Wiregrass Transit Authority (WTA) provides public transportation in Dothan and Houston County [5, 6, 11, 17, 18]. Use the Dial-A-Ride service by calling 334-836-5555 to schedule a ride [5]. Rides must be scheduled at least one day in advance [5, 6, 17]. Fares start at $2 within city limits [17].
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Taxi/Ride-Share
A taxi or ride-share from anywhere in downtown Dothan to the World's Smallest City Block will be a short ride [13]. Direct the driver to the intersection of North Appletree Street, North College Street, and East Troy Street, behind the Dothan City Civic Center [3, 4, 7, 8, 13, 16]. The fare should be approximately $5 - $10 within the city limits [9, 13]. Taxi services available in Dothan include Country Cab Taxi Service and Southeastern Safe Taxi LLC [9, 20]. Base taxi fare is $2.50, plus $1.70 per kilometer [9].
