Old Cahawba Archaeological Park: Alabama's Ghost Capital
Discover Alabama's first capital, a captivating ghost town where history and nature intertwine, offering a glimpse into the past.
Explore the haunting ruins of Cahawba, Alabama's first state capital (1819-1826). This archaeological park offers a glimpse into a forgotten era, where nature intertwines with history, revealing stories of a once-thriving river town that became a ghost town after the Civil War.
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, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven ground.
- Bring a hat, sunscreen, and bug spray, especially during the warmer months.
- Visit the Welcome Center to view archaeological finds and get information for your visit.
- Consider visiting in the fall for the Haunted History Tours.
Getting There
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Driving
Old Cahawba Archaeological Park is located near Orrville, Alabama. From Selma, take Highway 22 (Dallas Avenue) west for approximately 9 miles. Turn left onto County Road 9 and continue for 3.3 miles until it dead ends. Turn left onto County Road 2 and follow for 1.5 miles until you see the Welcome Center on the right. Parking is available at the Welcome Center. Admission to the grounds is $2 for adults and $1 for children (ages 6-18). Guided tours are available for an additional fee but must be booked in advance.
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Walking
If you are already within the Old Cahawba Archaeological Park, reaching specific points of interest involves navigating the park's road and trail system. The Visitor Center provides maps and brochures for self-guided walking tours. Walking from the entrance to the furthest point within the park can take approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on your pace and the specific location. There are no additional costs for walking within the park beyond the initial admission fee ($2 for adults, $1 for children 6-18).
Discover more about Old Cahawba Archaeological Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Old Cahawba Prairie Preserve
1.9 km
Discover Alabama's Black Belt prairie: Hike, birdwatch, and explore the natural beauty of Old Cahawba Prairie Preserve.
Adams Grove Presbyterian Church
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Explore a historic Greek Revival church in rural Alabama, complete with original architecture and a serene, storied cemetery.
The Sandbar
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Enjoy Southern cuisine with a waterfront view at The Sandbar, Selma's scenic grill and restaurant on the Alabama River.
Bloch Park
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Discover Selma's historic Bloch Park: a green oasis offering recreation, sports, and community events for all ages.
Riverview Historic District
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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
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Organpi Farms Farmhouse
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Queen City Kale
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Sleeping Prophet Edgar Cayce Memorial
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Mabry-Jones House
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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
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Unmissable attractions to see
Lions Fair Park
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New Live Oak Cemetery
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Vaughan Smitherman Museum
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National Voting Rights Museum and Institute
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Civil Rights Memorial Park
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Edmund Pettus Bridge
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Old Town Historic District
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Sturdivant Hall Museum
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Selma Interpretive Center of the Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail
12.6 km
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Historic Riverfront Park
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Enslavement & Civil War Museum
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Bridge Crossing Jubilee
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Old Depot Museum
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Brown Chapel AME Church
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Tabernacle Baptist Church
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Visit Tabernacle Baptist Church in Selma, a historic landmark and pivotal site in the Civil Rights Movement, showcasing courage and resilience.
Essential places to dine
Hancocks Barbeque
7.3 km
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Jack's
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Hancock Bbq
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Dallas Bar-B-Que
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Reflections Coffee Shoppe
12.5 km
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Lannie's Bar-B-Q #2
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Gab n grab
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5 & Dime
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Sterling's
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Bistro Manila (and Boba Manila)
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MK87
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The Downtowner Restaurant
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Macks Amillion Daiquiri shop
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Munch Box
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Xpression
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Minit Shop
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Frames 'N Things
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Johnny's Package Store
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Selma Curb Market
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Gantt Candies LLC
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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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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
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Middle Sister Bar
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Providence Bar
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Dallas County Moose Lodge 1737
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Upper Portland Bar
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