see for yourself

Old Town CHARM Helena’s growth hasn’t taken away from its small-town feel

BY LAUREN DOWDLE

From new shops and eateries to breathtaking views and parks, Helena has something for everyone — and there are even more things to come. The city is experiencing a major time of change, which includes adding new neighborhoods and businesses across town, says Deedra George, president of the Helena Business Association (HBA).

George and her husband, Adam, own By George and have lived in Helena for more than 25 years. The couple has raised their two children there, and George says Helena will always be home for them. “It is a balancing act, keeping a quiet, small town charm with more and more people and commerce,” she says. “Change and how to handle it has become part of the fabric of Helena, and something everyone loves to talk about.”

While the city is growing, the thing that makes Helena such a great place to visit and live hasn’t changed. “The greatest thing about living in Helena is by far the people,” George says. “The overwhelming majority of people in Helena just want to live, be happy, and encourage their children and loved ones to succeed and give back to their community. Helena is often known as the safest city in Alabama and that is accredited to our citizens, along with our fabulous police department. Helena also has great schools and great community sports for our children.”

One of the city’s latest additions will take place in one of its largest neighborhoods. The Hillsboro neighborhood will undergo an expansion project that includes adding a green space, retail, and expanding the current trail that goes through the neighborhood. Though no retail tenants have been announced yet, they city would like to see businesses like coffee shops, ice cream shops, restaurants, and other family owned stores open there.

Another stop for visitors, Old Town Helena and Buck Creek provide a charming, small-town southern atmosphere, says Leigh Hulsey, Helena City Council Member Place 1. “There are a variety of local cuisines and a local brewery in Old Town all within walking distance of each other, complete with a park and amazing waterfall for your enjoyment,” Hulsey says.

They recently passed a proposal to establish an entertainment district in Old Town, which will be executed by the Helena Old Town Board (HOTboard). “Old Town Helena is one of the remaining places where the simple charm of a small town by a stream and railroad tracks is accessible to families with children,” George says.

With all of the sights, it’s no wonder visitors and residents alike enjoy taking photos throughout the scenic area. “With a picturesque

downtown and a park system with lots of wooded views, people are always taking advantage of the colorful backdrops,” George says. “One of the most popular spots for photos is our landmark caboose in Old Town.”

In addition to taking photos there, visitors can also come to the caboose next to the Welcome Center to participate in the free puzzle swap. People can pick up and/or donate a puzzle to the exchange, which features more than 100 puzzles. While they’re in Old Town Helena, they can check out stores like Helena Hardware, or sample the many treat shops with baked goods and frozen delights. There have been several new family owned shops to open there, including Refined To Go and Bywater Oyster Bar & Grill. Brown Sugar Desserts and Beignets & Lattes also opened in the past year, curing any sweet tooth. “Family entrepreneurship is always alive in Helena,” George says.

Beyond family owned businesses, George says the city is excited to welcome Chick-fil-A, Dunkin’ Donuts, Papa Murphy’s, and Freddy’s. The city also has several longstanding, family owned businesses in Helena including Fatima’s Family AfHair hair Salon, By George, Native Beach Tan, and Jones & Associates.

Across from the caboose is The Depot Deli & Grill, and then just down the street is the Helena Museum. And of course, there’s the view of the waterfall at Buck Creek that’s a can’t-miss sight.

But that isn’t the only spot for outdoor lovers by far. The city has plenty of parks, including Joe Tucker Park, where residents can fish, play tennis, or just spend time with friends and family. Then there’s the Boundless Playground, which is a draw for families with children with special needs and will be the future home for the city’s Miracle

League.

Cahaba Lily Park has short trails and a playground as well, and the Hillsboro Trail is a great place to walk, run, or ride bikes, Hulsey says. The amphitheater located at Buck Creek Waterfall has a playground for children and great views for the adults.

People can also check out the Cahaba River Park, which was a joint venture between the Alabama Forever Wild Land Trust and Shelby County. The park opened last year at 2793 River Road off Shelby County 251 in Helena. The Cahaba River Park is the perfect spot for canoeing, fishing, hiking, kayaking, mountain biking, swimming, picnics, walking, and more. There are even trails designed for hiking, mountain biking, and trail running, as well as outdoor showers, restrooms, and pavilions. “Visit Helena, and get out and have fun,” George says.

Must-attend events in the city include the Buck Creek Festival, scheduled for Oct. 23-24, Fourth of July Celebration, Jazz in the Park, Helena Market Days, Christmas parade, and the Helena Festival, which is held in July and December. “Our July Helena Festival features great local vendors, food trucks, local musicians, and fireworks,” George says. “Our December Helena Festival also includes vendors, food trucks, Santa, and a live nativity scene. We also have a great Christmas tree lighting every year.”

No matter how much things grow and change in Helena, the city’s charm and its generous people continue to make it feel like home. “While we have grown residentially over the last several years, I truly believe Helena has done an excellent job maintaining its old town charm,” Hulsey says. “Hands down, the people of Helena make it a great place to live.”