Old Cahawba Archaeological Park: Alabama's Ghost Capital
Discover Alabama's captivating past in the ghostly ruins of its first capital, a preserved archaeological park with rich history and natural beauty.
Explore the haunting ruins of Cahawba, Alabama's first permanent state capital, now a preserved archaeological park. Roam the abandoned streets, discover moss-covered ruins, and learn about the town's rise and fall through interpretive signs and historic cemeteries.
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 while exploring the ruins.
- Bring a hat, sunscreen, and bug spray, especially during the warmer months.
- Visit the Visitor Center to learn about the history of Cahawba and pick up a self-guided tour brochure.
- Consider borrowing a bicycle from the visitor center to explore the park's five miles of paved and gravel roads.
Getting There
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Driving
Old Cahawba Archaeological Park is located east of Orrville. From Selma, take Highway 22 west for approximately 9 miles. Turn left onto County Road 9 and follow it for 5 miles, then turn left onto County Road 2, which leads into the park. Admission to the grounds is $2 for adults and $1 for children (ages 6-18). Additional fees apply for guided and wagon tours.
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Walking
From the Visitor Center, explore the park's main attractions on foot. Self-guided brochures are available at the visitor center. The park features interpretive signs, historic cemeteries, and the Clear Creek Nature Trail. There are no additional costs for walking within the park beyond the general admission fee of $2 for adults and $1 for children (ages 6-18).
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
Explore a historic Greek Revival church in rural Alabama, complete with original architecture and a serene, storied cemetery.
The Sandbar
10.5 km
Experience the best of southern cuisine at The Sandbar, a scenic grill in Selma, Alabama, offering delicious dishes and stunning river views.
Bloch Park
11.3 km
Experience the natural beauty and community spirit at Bloch Park, a perfect retreat for relaxation and recreation in Selma, Alabama.
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
Discover the rich history and architectural beauty of the Icehouse Historic District in Selma, Alabama—a must-visit for history enthusiasts and curious travelers.
905 Gallery
12.4 km
Discover the vibrant local art scene at 905 Gallery in Selma, Alabama, where creativity and culture come alive in an inspiring atmosphere.
Organpi Farms Farmhouse
12.5 km
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Queen City Kale
12.5 km
Experience the flavors of Selma at Queen City Kale, where fresh ingredients and creative dishes come together in a vibrant setting.
Sleeping Prophet Edgar Cayce Memorial
12.6 km
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Bridgetender's House
12.7 km
Explore Selma's historical gem, Bridgetender's House, a serene landmark showcasing the rich heritage of Alabama's past.
Mabry-Jones House
12.7 km
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St. James Hotel Selma, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
12.7 km
Experience Southern charm at St. James Hotel Selma, where history meets modern comfort along the beautiful Alabama River.
John Tyler Morgan House
12.7 km
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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 annual Central Alabama Fair and various local events.
New Live Oak Cemetery
10.9 km
Discover Selma's past in a serene setting, where history and nature intertwine among the monuments and ancient trees of New Live Oak Cemetery.
Vaughan Smitherman Museum
12.1 km
Explore Selma's vibrant past within the walls of this historic Greek Revival landmark, from Civil War relics to hospital artifacts.
National Voting Rights Museum and Institute
12.3 km
Explore the pivotal history of the Voting Rights Movement in Selma, AL, honoring the brave activists who fought for equality. A must-see Civil Rights landmark.
Civil Rights Memorial Park
12.4 km
Reflect on the courageous fight for equality at Selma's Civil Rights Memorial Park, honoring pivotal events and figures of the movement.
Edmund Pettus Bridge
12.5 km
Walk in the footsteps of civil rights heroes on this iconic bridge, a powerful symbol of the fight for voting rights and equality in Selma, Alabama.
Old Town Historic District
12.6 km
Explore Selma's Old Town Historic District: A journey through time, architecture, and the heart of the Civil Rights Movement.
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 starting point of the historic Selma to Montgomery march, a pivotal landmark in the Civil Rights Movement.
Historic Riverfront Park
12.8 km
Explore Selma's Historic Riverfront Park: A scenic waterfront park with Civil Rights history, river views, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Enslavement & Civil War Museum
12.9 km
Explore the compelling history of African Americans from ancient Africa through enslavement and the Civil War at this Selma museum.
Bridge Crossing Jubilee
12.9 km
Commemorating the Selma to Montgomery marches and the Voting Rights Act, honoring civil rights history and the fight for equality.
Old Depot Museum
13.1 km
Explore Selma's vibrant history at the Old Depot Museum, from Native American artifacts to the Civil Rights Movement.
Brown Chapel AME Church
13.3 km
Visit the historic Brown Chapel AME Church in Selma, Alabama, a pivotal landmark in the Civil Rights Movement and the fight for voting rights.
Tabernacle Baptist Church
13.4 km
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
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
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Dallas Bar-B-Que in Selma - where smoky flavors meet hearty hospitality.
Reflections Coffee Shoppe
12.5 km
Experience warmth and flavor at Reflections Coffee Shoppe in Selma – your go-to spot for delicious coffee and local charm.
Lannie's Bar-B-Q #2
12.5 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Lannie's Bar-B-Q #2 in Selma, Alabama - where flavor meets tradition.
Gab n grab
12.6 km
Experience the heart of American cuisine at Gab n Grab in Selma, Alabama – where comfort food meets Southern hospitality.
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
Discover the heart of American cuisine at Sterling's in Selma - where Southern hospitality meets delicious home-cooked meals.
Bistro Manila (and Boba Manila)
12.7 km
Experience authentic Filipino cuisine and delicious bubble tea at Bistro Manila in Selma, Alabama – where every meal tells a story.
MK87
12.7 km
Discover MK87 in Selma: A delightful sandwich shop offering locally-sourced flavors in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Downtowner Restaurant
12.7 km
Experience family-friendly dining at The Downtowner Restaurant in Selma – where delicious comfort food meets warm hospitality.
Macks Amillion Daiquiri shop
12.8 km
Discover refreshing frozen daiquiris at Macks Amillion Daiquiri Shop in Selma, Alabama - where flavor meets fun in a vibrant setting.
Munch Box
12.8 km
Discover Munch Box: A cozy breakfast spot in Selma offering delicious meals that capture the essence of Southern hospitality.
Xpression
12.8 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Minit Shop
12.0 km
Discover the convenience of Minit Shop in Selma, Alabama – your go-to place for snacks, drinks, and essentials during your travels.
Frames 'N Things
12.0 km
Discover unique gifts and custom picture frames at Frames 'N Things in Selma, Alabama – a beloved local destination for shoppers of all kinds.
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
Explore local flavors and community spirit at Selma Curb Market, your go-to grocery store in Selma, Alabama, offering fresh produce and unique artisanal goods.
Gantt Candies LLC
12.6 km
Explore the charming Gantt Candies LLC in Selma, Alabama, for a delightful selection of homemade candies that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Cotton House
12.6 km
Discover Cotton House in Selma, Alabama - a boutique clothing store offering unique fashion pieces and a warm shopping experience.
Cahaba Products
12.6 km
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Queen City Market
12.6 km
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Broad Street Books
12.6 km
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allez-oup
12.7 km
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Gordon's Antiques and Estate Sales
12.7 km
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On Time Fashions
12.7 km
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This & That
12.7 km
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Odds and Ends Gift Shop
12.8 km
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Snack Store
12.8 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
King Bar
5.9 km
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Mary Taylor Bar
6.3 km
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Mitchell Bar
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Rifleman Bar
10.9 km
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Upper Sister Bar
11.8 km
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Dallas County
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Sparkle's Saloon
12.8 km
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Dripz Lounge
12.9 km
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Michael's Pub
13.1 km
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XPLOSION
13.9 km
Experience the thrill of sports at XPLOSION, Selma's go-to sports bar with delicious bites and a vibrant atmosphere.
Southern Comfort Lounge
14.5 km
Experience Southern charm at the Southern Comfort Lounge in Selma, Alabama, where live music and delicious cocktails create unforgettable moments.
Middle Sister Bar
14.8 km
Explore the serene beauty of Middle Sister Bar in Alabama, a stunning reef destination perfect for adventure and relaxation.
Providence Bar
16.6 km
Explore the stunning reef landscapes of Providence Bar in Alabama, a serene escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Dallas County Moose Lodge 1737
17.1 km
Discover the warmth and camaraderie of the Dallas County Moose Lodge 1737 in Selma, a perfect spot for drinks and local culture.
Upper Portland Bar
18.2 km
Discover the serene beauty of Upper Portland Bar in Alabama, a perfect retreat for relaxation and local flavor amidst stunning landscapes.