There is no shortage of things to do in Baldwin County, but sometimes the best plan is to simply get away for the day.
That was the idea behind a recent family birthday surprise: a day trip …
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There is no shortage of things to do in Baldwin County, but sometimes the best plan is to simply get away for the day.
That was the idea behind a recent family birthday surprise: a day trip built around nature, unique experiences and a chance to explore some of Alabama's most interesting attractions before returning to the routines of work and daily life.
For those looking for an easy escape, the Millbrook and Wetumpka area offers a mix of movie history, outdoor recreation, local food and even a glimpse into Earth's ancient past.
Hidden among the trees along the Alabama River, Jackson Lake Island gives visitors the chance to explore one of Alabama's most recognizable film locations while enjoying a peaceful day outdoors.
Located in a lazy channel known as the Gun Island Chute, Jackson Lake Island sits in the middle of the waterway and remains a destination unlike any other in the state. The privately owned island, located about three hours from Foley in Millbrook, just north of Montgomery, served as the filming location for the fictional Town of Spectre in Tim Burton's 2003 film "Big Fish."
More than two decades later, many of the structures built for the movie remain standing despite weather, fire and the passage of time. Visitors can still walk among the buildings and imagine scenes from the film unfolding around them.
In "Big Fish," Spectre is portrayed as a whimsical and idyllic town that protagonist Edward Bloom encounters during his travels, first arriving too early and later too late. While some of the original set pieces have disappeared, enough remains to attract visitors from across the country who want to experience a piece of cinematic history.
The island's most famous residents, however, may be its goats.
The animals roam freely throughout the property and have become a favorite attraction for guests, who frequently spot them relaxing near the movie set buildings or wandering across the grounds.
Admission for day-use visitors is typically $5 per person. Camping is also available for those who want to spend more time exploring. Because flooding can occasionally impact access to the island, visitors should check current conditions before making the trip.
Beyond its Hollywood connection, Jackson Lake Island offers fishing, kayaking, photography, picnicking and camping opportunities. Large open spaces and waterfront views make it a popular destination for families, couples and anyone seeking a quieter pace away from city life.
Photographers often find plenty to capture, from the weathered facades of the Spectre buildings to Spanish moss hanging from trees and scenic river views.
A visit to Jackson Lake Island pairs well with a stop in nearby Wetumpka for lunch.
One popular option is Wharf Casual Seafood, located at 4700 U.S. 231, Wetumpka.
For Baldwin County residents, the restaurant offers a familiar taste of home. The menu centers on Gulf seafood, serving shrimp baskets, fish tacos, po'boys, oysters and fresh catch selections sourced from the waters that help define life along Alabama's Gulf Coast.
Its slogan, "The Coast is Here," reflects its mission of bringing Gulf-fresh seafood — from oysters and shrimp to fin fish — to inland communities across the Southeast.
While the restaurant is located far from the beach, its roots are firmly planted in the Gulf seafood industry that has long been a cornerstone of coastal Alabama's culture and economy.
The family-owned company traces its origins to the late 1960s, when Early Duggar met and married Eva Thomas before joining her father's fourth-generation Gulf Coast seafood business. The couple founded Gulf King Seafood Corp. in 1971, growing it into one of the world's largest wholesale seafood businesses.
After three consecutive Gulf Coast hurricanes in the 1980s severely impacted the company, the couple turned their seafood expertise and entrepreneurial spirit toward the restaurant industry, founding The Wharf in Tallahassee in 1986.
Today, Wharf Casual Seafood continues to expand across Alabama.
For visitors looking to bring home local flavors, SweetCreek Farm Market offers another worthwhile stop.
Located at 85 Meriwether Road in Pike Road, just outside downtown Wetumpka, the family-owned market features fresh produce, locally made products, sauces, jams, baked goods and specialty items sourced from area farms and producers.
According to its website, SweetCreek has built a reputation around a "scratch-kitchen" approach, using fresh locally sourced ingredients while supporting local farms, growers, bakeries and small businesses.
In addition to the market, visitors can enjoy a small country-style restaurant serving sandwiches and other homestyle offerings.
One of SweetCreek's biggest draws is its homemade ice cream, available in a variety of flavors throughout the year. Many visitors stop for a scoop before browsing seasonal fruits and vegetables, local honey and gift items.
Depending on the season, shoppers may find fresh peaches, tomatoes, strawberries, watermelons and other Alabama-grown produce.
Another stop that made our day-trip list, but one we unfortunately did not get to visit because of unforeseen circumstances, is the Wetumpka Impact Crater Discovery & Visitors Center at 124 Company St., Wetumpka.
Even though we were unable to make it there this time, it remains one of the area's most unique attractions and another great reason to plan a trip to Wetumpka.
Known as "America's best-preserved marine impact crater," the site offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore one of Alabama's most remarkable geological landmarks.
The discovery center serves as the hub for learning about the crater, which was formed when an asteroid struck the area approximately 85 million years ago.
Interactive exhibits and educational resources help explain how the impact occurred and the geological features it created. Visitors can explore displays that include timelines, geological models and expert-led media presentations detailing the crater's formation and significance.
The center also provides maps, brochures and travel information for visitors interested in exploring crater viewpoints as well as other attractions, restaurants and shopping destinations throughout Wetumpka.
Volunteers are available to answer questions, recommend tour options and help guests plan their visit. A gift shop offers locally inspired souvenirs and educational materials.
Those who prefer to explore at their own pace can take advantage of a self-guided driving tour that highlights key geological features tied to the impact event.
The route includes views of the crater's outer rim and uplifted center, scenic overlooks of Wetumpka and the Coosa River, and interpretive signs explaining the science and landscape surrounding the crater.
Whether the goal is movie nostalgia, outdoor adventure, local food or a journey through ancient geological history, the Millbrook and Wetumpka area offers plenty of reasons to hit the road.
Sometimes the perfect escape is only a day trip away.
