Visitor's Guide 2017

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VISITORS AND NEWCOMERS GUIDE

2017-2018

Fun throughout the year A seasonal calendar featuring the county’s biggest events

Serving our students

A primer on the area’s public and private schools

Staying healthy Find the right local health care provider for you and your family

YOUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO SHELBY COUNTY, ALABAMA

EDITOR’S NOTE

O

ver the years, more and more people have discovered what was once a hidden gem in central Alabama: Shelby County.

As the word has spread, Shelby County’s population has exploded – growing more than 44 percent from 143,293 residents in 2000 to nearly 210,000 residents as of the most recent census estimates.

The county’s growth has been fueled by many factors, including excellent school systems, a plethora of recreational offerings, community festivals and so much more.

Shelby County truly offers something for everyone, regardless of age. Enjoy being in the middle of it all while being just outside of a major city? Shelby County has it. Enjoy a more downhome, slow-paced life relaxing on a lake? Shelby County’s got that, too.

The educational systems in Shelby County are among the best the state has to offer. Whether it’s the Shelby County School System, the Alabaster City School System, the Hoover City School System, the Pelham City School System or any one of the county’s excellent private schools, you can be sure your kids are in good hands.

Whether you’re a new or lifelong resident, the county has plenty of entertainment offerings. Why not take a trip to Oak Mountain State Park – Alabama’s largest – catch an event sponsored by the Shelby County Arts Council or visit the American Village in Montevallo?

There are many reasons Shelby County is one of the fastest-growing counties in Alabama, and if you’re a newcomer here, you’re cordially invited to become a part of this exciting growth.

Just visiting for a weekend? We hope you enjoy your stay. Just moved to Shelby County? Welcome home.

Emily Sparacino, Editor

Emily.Sparacino@shelbycountyreporter.com ON THE COVER

The Davis family— Jay, Paula, Alex, Jack, Porter and Emily— enjoy an afternoon of fishing at Oak Mountain State Park.

Cover design: Jamie Dawkins Photography: Keith McCoy

VISITORS AND NEWCOMERS GUIDE

SHELBY COUNTY 2017-2018

EDITORIAL Graham Brooks Stephen Dawkins Alec Etheredge Briana Harris Amalia Kortright Madoline Markham Keith McCoy Emily Sparacino Neal Wagner

PRODUCTION Connor Bucy Jamie Dawkins Clarke Stackhouse

MARKETING Kristy Brown Kari George Rachel Henderson Daniel Holmes Hagan Joiner Donna Knott Rhett McCreight Kim McCulla Ashley Murphy April Spivey Bayleigh Thompson Kerrie Thompson

ADMINISTRATION Tim Prince Katie McDowell Mary Jo Eskridge Hailey Dolbare Stacey Meadows Visitors Guide is published yearly by Shelby County Newspapers, Inc., P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051. The magazine is published in April and available year-round through Alabama welcome centers, Shelby County area chambers of commerce, and local businesses and organizations.

Additional copies may be purchased by calling the SCNI office at 205-669-3131, or by emailing circulation@shelbycountyreporter.com.

Reproduction in whole or in part without express written permission is prohibited. Please address all correspondence (including but not limited to letters, story ideas and requests to reprint materials) to: Editor, Shelby County Newspapers, Inc., P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051.

Please email advertise@shelbycountyreporter.com for advertising inquiries.

2 | VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY

TABLE OF CONTENTS

VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY | 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

WELCOME TO SHELBY COUNTY ...................6

FINDING THE PERFECT NEIGHBORHOOD ....41

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE COUNTY’S HISTORY, LOCATION AND DEMOGRAPHICS

WHAT TO CONSIDER BEFORE YOU MAKE A MOVE

MUNICIPALITIES............................................10

A PRIMER ON THE COUNTY’S PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SCHOOLS

EIGHTEEN MUNICIPALITIES FALL WITHIN SHELBY COUNTY’S BORDERS

ENHANCING PARK’S NATURAL BEAUTY .....12

SERVING OUR STUDENTS ............................42

EXPRESSING SHELBY COUNTY ....................48 ARTS AND THEATER FINDS A COMMUNITY IN THE COUNTY

DISCOVER THE FACETS THAT MAKE OAK MOUNTAIN STATE PARK AN OUTDOOR TREASURE

CHAMPIONS OF OUR FUTURE .....................51

FOR THE BIRDS .............................................16

ALABASTER CITY SCHOOLS SERVE STUDENTS AT SIX SCHOOLS

ALABAMA WILDLIFE CENTER OFFERS REHABILITATION SERVICES TO NATIVE BIRDS

CENTERS OF COMMUNITY...........................59

AMERICAN VILLAGE .....................................18 AMERICA’S STORY IS ON DISPLAY FOR VISITORS OF ALL AGES

TAKE THE STAGE ..........................................21 AMPHITHEATRE DRAWS BIG ACTS TO PELHAM

HEART OF DIXIE............................................24

COUNTY’S LIBRARIES OFFER MORE THAN JUST BOOKS

PREPARED FOR THE JOURNEY .....................61 THE SHELBY COUNTY SCHOOL SYSTEM OFFERS QUALITY EDUCATION ACROSS THE COUNTY

CHURCH DIRECTORY ....................................65 SHELBY COUNTY OFFERS NUMEROUS HOUSES OF WORSHIP

RAILROAD MUSEUM OFFERS FAMILY FUN

STAYING HEALTHY IN SHELBY COUNTY .....67

LOTS TO SEE AND DO ..................................26

FROM PRIVATE PRACTICES TO STATE-OF-THE-ART MEDICAL CENTERS, SHELBY COUNTY HAS IT ALL

SEE A LIST OF LOCAL THEATERS, MUSEUMS, WINERIES, FARMS AND MORE

MEDICAL DIRECTORY ...................................69

FORE! ............................................................28

FIND THE RIGHT HEALTH CARE PROVIDER FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY

CHECK OUT SHELBY COUNTY’S PUBLIC AND PRIVATE GOLF COURSES

ACCOMMODATIONS ....................................81

PROOF IS IN THE PRODUCE .........................30

HOTELS AND CONFERENCE CENTERS AVAILABLE FOR GROUPS OF ANY SIZE

FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLES AVAILABLE AT LOCAL FARMERS MARKETS

FUN THROUGHOUT THE YEAR ....................83

STAY ACTIVE .................................................31

A SEASONAL CALENDAR FEATURING THE COUNTY’S BIGGEST EVENTS

COUNTY OFFERS DOZENS OF PARKS, FITNESS CENTERS AND SPORTS VENUES

IMPORTANT NUMBERS ................................86

FEELS LIKE HOME .........................................34

CONTACT INFORMATION FOR VISITORS, NEWCOMERS AND LONGTIME RESIDENTS

SHELBY COUNTY HOUSING MARKET CONTINUES TO GROW AND ATTRACT BUYERS

LAY OF THE LAND ........................................88

GETTING SETTLED ........................................38 NEW TO THE COUNTY? SEE WHAT STEPS YOU SHOULD TAKE AFTER MOVING TO THE AREA

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AN EASY-TO-VIEW MAP OF SHELBY COUNTY

Welcome to

Shelby County!

W

elcome to Shelby County, one of the fastest-growing counties in Alabama. Situated in the central part of the state at the base of the Appalachian Mountains, Shelby County offers a vast array of attractions and natural resources for visitors to enjoy.

High-ranking schools, recreational facilities, businesses and a healthy real estate market are just a few amenities that draw families to the area year after year.

Explore nature at its finest at the 10,000-acre Oak Mountain State Park, the largest state park in Alabama.

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Go fishing or take a relaxing boat ride on Lay Lake or the Cahaba River.

Step back in time and learn more about the country’s rich history at the American Village in Montevallo.

Take a walk on the picturesque campus of the University of Montevallo.

See local artists’ vibrant masterpieces at one of many art galleries.

Browse clothing, jewelry, home decor and much more at the many local boutiques along each city’s Main Street.

See what Shelby County has to offer and why so many people call it home.

POPULATION

210,622

Come as you are.

You’ll fit right in.

SUNDAYS AT 8:15 & 10:45 AM

FEMALE 51.4%

19 and under: 27%

20-24 years: 5.7 %

25-34 years: 13.1%

35-44 years: 14.8%

MALE 48.6%

45-54 years: 14.6%

Oak Mountain Presbyterian Church 5080 Cahaba Valley Trace Birmingham, AL 35242

#wheregraceabounds

55-64 65 and years: older: 11.5% 12.4%

AGE BREAKDOWN Demographic information from U.S. Census, 2016 and 2015 estimates.

HISTORY OF THE COUNTY Shelby County was established in 1818 by an act of the Alabama Territorial General Assembly from former Creek Indian territory ceded in the Treaty of Fort Jackson in August 1814.

The county is named after Isaac Shelby, a Revolutionary War hero and the first governor of Kentucky, and comprises about 808 square miles of land.

As one of seven counties comprising the BirminghamHoover Metropolitan Area, Shelby County is bounded by Jefferson and St. Clair counties to the north, Talladega and Coosa counties to the east and Chilton and Bibb counties to the south and southwest.

VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY | 7

DRIVING DISTANCES

NASHVILLE, TN 210 MILES 3 HOURS

Located in the center of the state, Shelby County offers easy access to major metropolitan centers and tourist destinations throughout the Southeast.

BIRMINGHAM, AL 21 MILES 28 MINUTES

CHARLOTTE, NC 402 MILES 6 HOURS

MOBILE, AL 239 MILES 3 HOURS

DESTIN, FL 234 MILES 4 HOURS

Atlanta, GA 158 miles 2 hours

Dallas, TX 638 miles 9 hours

Birmingham, AL 21 miles 28 minutes

Destin, FL 234 miles 4 hours

Charleston, SC 475 miles 7 hours

Houston, TX 668 miles 9 hours

Montgomery, AL 63 miles 1 hour

Charlotte, NC 402 miles 6 hours

Memphis, TN 356 miles 4 hours

Nashville, TN 210 miles 3 hours

New Orleans, LA 346 miles 5 hours

Chattanooga, TN 162 miles 2 hours

Mobile, AL 239 miles 3 hours

Orlando, FL 539 miles 8 hours

Savannah, GA 405 miles 6 hours

Travel times estimated using Google Maps. Starting location is Pelham.

WEATHER

January February March April May June July August September October November December

Average High Average Low

Average

Precipitation (inches)

54 59 67 74 82 88 91 91 85 75 65 56

44 48 55.5 62.5 71 78 81.5 81 74.5 64 54.5 46

4.84 4.7 5.23 4.38 4.99 4.38 4.8 3.93 3.9 3.44 4.85 4.45

34 37 44 51 60 68 72 71 64 53 44 36

Two major rivers – the Coosa and the Cahaba – are located in Shelby County.

According to the 1820 Shelby County census records, the county’s population was 2,492 two years after its formation. Today, more than 210,000 people make up the county’s population, according to the 2016 U.S. Census estimate.

About 68 percent of the population is incorporated into 17 municipalities.

Shelby County boasts direct access to three major roadways, U.S. 280, Interstate 65 and U.S. 31.

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ANNUAL 73.9 52.8 63.4 53.89

Source: The Weather Channel

Average High Average Low Average Precipitation (inches)

The county consistently has ranked as the best location in Alabama to raise a family.

Other major amenities include a general aviation airport, a hospital and 14 senior centers.

Overall, Shelby County affords residents of all ages a high-quality place to live, work and enjoy life.

History and general information about Shelby County in part by Bobby Joe Seales and County Manager Alex Dudchock.

VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY | 9

MUNICIPALITIES

MUNICIPALITIES AND COMMUNITIES IN SHELBY COUNTY ALABASTER

Incorporated 1953 Population: 31,342 City Hall 1953 Municipal Way Alabaster, AL 35007 205-664-6800 Cityofalabaster.com

BIRMINGHAM

Incorporated 1871 Population: 212,237 710 North 20th Street Birmingham, AL 35203 205-254-2294 Birminghamal.gov

CALERA

Incorporated 1893 Population: 12,756 City Hall 10947 Alabama 25 Calera, AL 35040 205-668-3500 CityofCalera.org

CHELSEA

Incorporated 1996 Population: 11,277 City Hall 11611 Highway 280 Chelsea, Al 35043 205-678-8455 Cityofchelsea.com

COLUMBIANA Incorporated 1837 Population: 4,208 City Hall 107 Mildred Street

LEEDS

Columbiana, AL 35051 205-669-5800 Cityofcolumbiana.com

Incorporated 1877 Population: 11,907 City Hall 1040 Park Drive Leeds, AL 35094 205-699-2585 Leedsalabama.gov

HARPERSVILLE

Incorporated 1944 Population: 1,676 Town Hall 83 Town Hall Lane Harpersville, AL 35078 205-672-9961 Townofharpersville.com

MONTEVALLO

Incorporated 1817 Population: 6,575 City Hall 545 Main Street Montevallo, AL 35115 205-665-2555 Cityofmontevallo.com

HELENA

Incorporated 1917 Population: 17,560 City Hall 816 Shelby County 52 E Helena, AL 35080 205-663-2161 Cityofhelena.org

MT LAUREL

Incorporated 1998 Population: 489 5 Mt Laurel Ave. Birmingham, AL 35242 205-408-8696 Mtlaurel.com

HOOVER

Incorporated 1967 Population: 84,126 City Hall 100 Municipal Lane Hoover, AL 35216 205-444-7500 Hooveral.org

PELHAM

INDIAN SPRINGS VILLAGE

Incorporated 1990 Population: 2,499 Town Hall 2635 Cahaba Valley Road Indian Springs, AL 35124 Indianspringsvillage.org

Incorporated 1964 Population: 22,289 City Hall 3162 Pelham Parkway Pelham, AL 35124 205-620-6400 Pelhamonline.com

VESTAVIA HILLS

Incorporated 1946 Population: 34,033 City Hall 1032 Montgomery Hwy

Vestavia Hills, AL 35216 (205) 978-0100 Vhal.org

VINCENT

Incorporated 1887 Population: 2,082 City Hall 25 Florey Street Vincent, AL 35178 205-672-2261 Townofvincent.com

WESTOVER

Incorporated 2001 Population: 1,387 City Hall 3312 Westover Road Westover, AL 35147 205-678-3375 Westoveralabama.org

WILSONVILLE

Incorporated 1897 Population: 1,939 Town Hall 9905 North Main Street Wilsonville, AL 35186 205-669-6180 Wilsonvilleal.com

WILTON

Incorporated 1918 Population: 687 Town Hall 100 Depot Street Wilton, AL 35187 (205) 665-2021

Welcome Home We’re glad you’ve decided to make Shelby County your home. We’d love you to consider making North Shelby Baptist your church home. Welcome home.

For more information visit: www.northshelbybaptist.org Call us at: 205-995-9056 4100 Belcher Drive, Birmingham, AL 35242

10 | VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY

VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY | 11

Enhancing Park’s Natural Beauty Story by LAUREN DOWDLE

A

labama’s largest state park can be found right here in the heart of Shelby County.

Pelham’s Oak Mountain State Park began as a 940-acre park on Double Oak Mountain in 1927. Now, it covers nearly 10,000 acres and features walking and hiking trails, fishing piers, water and boating activities, campgrounds, bike trails, perfect picnicking spots, recreational areas and stunning, lush views.

The park had more than 600,000 visitors in 2016, and they are already on pace to beat that number this year thanks to the great spring weather, says Kelly Ezell, superintendent of Oak Mountain State Park and district superintendent of Central Alabama State Parks.

And that’s really just the start of what people can enjoy at the park now that it’s undergone some major renovations and additions, helping to uncover its natural beauty. From the lake areas to the trails, everything has seen updates, making the park an even more popular destination from local residents and sightseers.

12 | VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY

The park team has reestablished the beaches along Beaver Lake and also created a volleyball court on them. Other updates include a reconstructed boat launch, swimming pier next to the beach, fishing pier and campground area near Beaver Lake. The park is also working with the Department of Conservation to add fish habitats and trees.

Those looking to enjoy the great outdoors and get some exercise will enjoy the new 2-mile trail for hiking and mountain biking, which opens in May. It runs from the North Lake parking lot to the North Head Trail.

“They may have seen the park in the past, but they haven’t seen these amenities,” says Chad Scroggins, manager, Shelby County Development Services.

They are also lengthening the BMX track, adding asphalt curbing and installing lighting around the track so they can have night events — helping to attract regional events and races.

Something bikers will enjoy is the focus on new bike lanes. They’re currently on Phase 1 of

3 of installing their bike lanes, which will include 6-foot-wide bike lanes on both sides of the road, providing extra safety for riders.

They’ve also renovated the barn at their stable with help from the United Sportsmen Alliance’s Work Boots on the Ground program. And there’s a new archery range near the golf course, giving people a range of sports activities to choose from.

Near the equestrian campground, they’ve added a new bathhouse and pavilion, perfect for people’s busy schedules. “Runners might want to come at lunch time, and they can come in, take a shower and go back to work,” Scroggins says.

Another big draw to the park is the Alabama Wildlife Center, which was named one of the 25 VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY | 13

What To Do u Mountain Biking u Hiking Trails u BMX Course u Volleyball u Beaches u Water Sports & Swimming u 18-Hole Golf Course & Driving Range u Fishing u Picnic u Horseback Riding u Boat Rentals u Basketball Courts u Nature Programs u Playground u Campgrounds u Alabama Wildlife Center 14 | VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY

“There’s always something new at Oak Mountain State Park. If you’ve been before and think you’ve seen it all, you need to come out and give it a look. We’re always improving.”

- Kelly Ezell

Best Things to Do In Alabama by Vacationidea. com. The center cares for about 2,000 wild birds from more than 100 species a year, and visitors can get an up-close look at it all.

The Alabama Wildlife Center will soon house the state’s only Eurasian eagle owl — the largest owl species in the world — in a new mew educational bird enclosure. They will also be adding a bald eagle in a new mew, making it only the second bald eagle in an education display in Alabama.

“There’s something very compelling about a personal encounter with our national symbol,” says Doug Adair, executive director, Alabama Wildlife Center.

The center will also be upgrading their rehabilitation enclosures, freedom flight enclosures and landscaping. They’re updating the treetop natural trail with a life-size eagle’s nest display and a new observation platform for visitors to enjoy. People will also be able to watch the baby bird nursery, exam/intake room and rehabilitation enclosures from screens in the visitor’s area.

So whether people are looking to enjoy their natural surroundings, see unique birds first-hand, relax on the lake, safely bike around the park or take a hike through the wood, Oak Mountain State Park really has something for everyone.

“There’s always something new at Oak Mountain State Park,” Ezell says. “If you’ve been before and think you’ve seen it all, you need to come out and give it a look. We’re always improving.”

The Oak Mountain State Park is located at 200 Terrace Drive in Pelham. For more information, visit Alapark.com/oak-mountain-state-park or Discovershelby.com.

COME SEE

IRON MAN 205.933.1409 1701 Valley View Drive Birmingham, AL 35209

@VisitVulcan

VISITVULCAN.COM VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY | 15

For the birds Alabama Wildlife Center offers rehabilitation services to native birds Story by EMILY SPARACINO

N

ested inside Oak Mountain State Park in Pelham is the Alabama Wildlife Center, the state’s oldest and largest wildlife rehabilitation and education center.

Since its formation as a small, homebased, all-volunteer organization nearly 40 years ago, AWC has grown substantially and rescues, rehabilitates and releases roughly 2,000 of Alabama’s native birds from more than 100 species each year.

16 | VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY

AWC’s work has helped more than 50,000 wild animals native to Alabama.

In addition to caring for thousands of birds, AWC provides educational programs to children and adults in an effort to raise awareness of the state’s wildlife resources and the need to protect such resources.

As a non-profit organization, AWC operates with five full-time employees working alongside about 200 volunteers to care for the animals at the center, carry out programming and much more.

OMSP’s hiking trails include the Wildlife

Center trail, which leads from the beach to the AWC and Treetop Nature Trail. AWC maintains and cares for birds of prey located along the Treetop Nature Trail, which consists of an elevated boardwalk with cages of birds that have been rehabilitated following injury.

A project to build habitats for a Eurasian eagleowl, the largest owl species in the world, and two bald eagles has started at the center.

In 1981, AWC created the Wildlife Help Line

to provide free advice and information regarding wildlife issues and emergencies. The hotline processes thousands of calls annually and has assisted more than 100,000 Alabamians. The hotline number is 663-7930 ext. 2, and is available 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. seven days a week.

AWC is free and open to the public after park admission, which is $5 for adults (age 12 and up), $2 for children ages 6-11 (children 5 and under are free) and $2 for seniors.

VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY | 17

America’s story on display

T

Story by EMILY SPARACINO

he words and ideas Thomas Jefferson incorporated into the Declaration of Independence in 1776 are as applicable to Americans today as they were when he penned the document nearly 240 years ago.

Liberty and democracy continue to serve as the cornerstones upon which this country is based. Learning more about the people and events that shaped the formation of the United States is key to understanding the country’s history.

Every year, the American Village in Montevallo brings history to life for more than 75,000 people from Alabama and surrounding states.

With special attention on historical accuracy and authenticity, costumed historical interpreters engage visitors in some of the most poignant moments in America’s past.

The American Village allows visitors of all ages to “step into the

18 | VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY

scene,” to witness Henry’s famous speech, drill in Washington’s army and become a Patriot spy interrogated by a British soldier.

Last summer, nearly 40 Alabama high school students in the Youth Leadership Development Program’s fifth annual Walsh Academy of Leadership visited the American Village as they explored the roots of American heritage and democracy.

Dr. Treva Medbery, Officer for Educational Initiatives at the American Village, led a discussion with American Village founder and CEO Tom Walker about the formation of the venue and the importance of students’ civic involvement.

Walker’s vision of building a place where people could see history unfold before their eyes culminated in the opening of the American Village nearly 18 years ago.

“We’re trying to cultivate a lifelong commitment to be engaged

and involved,” Walker said to the WAL students.

“American democracy is not a 100-yard dash; it’s a marathon.”

Lesli Johnson, an interpreter at the American Village, told the students about her job and the role African-Americans played in America’s journey to independence.

Johnson has portrayed Harriet Tubman, an escaped slave who led other slaves to freedom via the Underground Railroad, and Phyllis Wheatley, a slave and well-known poet in pre-19th century America.

“What I like about this place is we are not just giving you facts and figures about history,” Johnson said to the students. “We are telling the story.

We want you to learn something or experience something you haven’t before.”

The designs of the buildings at the American Village are inspired by significant structures in history.

In addition to shedding light on the contributions of America’s founders, the American Village honors men and women who have preserved liberty through their service and sacrifice at the National Veterans Shrine and Register of Honor.

Patterned after Philadelphia’s Carpenters Hall, the Shrine features major sculptures and paintings by nationally renowned artists.

The Veterans Register of Honor, a website and database containing photographs, biographical sketches and stories of U.S. veterans and active military members, is housed in the Shrine, which was dedicated on Feb. 17, 2014.

VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY | 19

Seasonal programs at the American Village include the Festival of Tulips Spring Program; Celebrate America! Summer Program; the Liberty Experience, September-May; and the Christmas Lunch and Tour.

During the Festival of Tulips in March and early April, the American Village bursts into bloom with more than 70,000 tulips. You-pick flowers are available for purchase at designated times, and visitors are welcome to bring their cameras for photos with the tulips.

Celebrate America! features red, white and blue all-American fun as visitors step back in time and become part of the great American journey for independence and self-government.

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The Liberty Experience involves the drama of America’s founding. Guests can visit the White House Oval Office and Colonial Chapel, protest the Stamp Act, join the Continental Army and take part in America’s revolutionary history.

The Christmas Lunch and Tour consists of a concert in the Chapel, lunch in the East Room at the White House with entertainment by a patriot of the past.

Since seasonal hours of operation vary, those interested in visiting the American Village should check the website, Americanvillage.org.

For more information about the American Village, call (205) 665-3535 ext. 1031 or 1-877-8111776.

Amphitheatre draws big acts to Pelham Story by STEPHEN DAWKINS

T

his year will mark another exciting concert season at Oak Mountain Amphitheatre, Alabama’s largest outdoor music venue.

“Since opening its gates in June of 1986, the stage has welcomed an eclectic mix of worldrenowned recording artists,” said Dana Smaha, senior director of premium seat sales.

The Amphitheatre, located in Pelham, predates most of the development in Shelby County. When it was constructed, it was located

in the middle of a heavily wooded, relatively undeveloped portion of northern Shelby County.

The population around the center also has exploded since the first concert was held at the venue, growing from just a few thousand residents to more than 20,000 today, helping to cement the Amphitheatre’s status as a nationally known outdoor performance venue.

The Amphitheatre’s genesis came when New York concert promoter Tony Ruffino moved to Birmingham with his family in the late 1970s.

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After seeing success in New York and at the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex, Ruffino opened the Amphitheatre and the Five Points South Music Hall in downtown Birmingham.

Although it was built on 63 acres in a relatively rural area in the 1980s, the Amphitheatre’s location was well-planned and is still paying dividends to concert organizers today.

Bands typically book shows in large Southern markets such as Atlanta or New Orleans, so Pelham is in a prime location to attract big talent because it sits at the crossroads of many other potential stops.

Over the years, technology has changed the way bands make a living. Gone are the days when bands toured only to supplement their earnings from new albums. Today, bands rely more heavily on income from live performances.

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LiveNation owns and operates Oak Mountan Amphitheatre.

LiveNation typically acts as venue and promoter, providing two of the three needed components for a concert along with the band.

Twelve to 15 concerts are held each year, usually from April to October, at the 10,200-seat venue.

This year’s lineup will include acts such as Blink 182, Dierks Bentley, Train, Chris Stapleton, Journey, Foreigner, Jason Aldean, Lady Antebellum and Florida Georgia Line.

Oak Mountain Amphitheatre offers a VIP Season Seat Program with premium VIP Club membership and exclusive VIP parking with all packages.

Box seats and premium seating in the first 15 rows are available each year.

For more information, contact Smaha at

danasmaha@livenation.com A variety of culinary options are offered at the venue including traditional choices, such as Bavarian style soft pretzels, foot-long hot dogs, pizza, chicken tenders, cheeseburgers and fries.

“We use humanely raised meat and source local produce where we can,” Smaha said. “We also bring in local food trucks and restaurants for our events.”

Part of ensuring a great concert experience is making sure attendees and their property are kept safe while they are in Pelham. Since the venue was constructed, it has had a close relationship with the city’s leadership, law enforcement and fire department.

Because a sold-out concert can increase Pelham’s population by 11,000, traffic control and attendee safety become priorities on concert days.

Before each concert, the police department requests attendance numbers from the Amphitheater, which it then uses to put together a staffing plan for the event.

For more information about Oak Mountain Amphitheatre, and to see the schedule of upcoming concerts, visit LiveNation.com and search for “Oak Mountain Amphitheatre.”

VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY | 23

Railroad museum offers family fun Story by BRIANA HARRIS

F

ew things bring out a child’s, or an adult’s, inquisitive nature like riding in and hearing the whistle of a train that was built in 1910.

Visiting the Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum is like taking a step back in time and seeing firsthand the traveling accommodations for some American travelers in the early 1900s.

Located at 173 Shelby County 301, the Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum kicked off its 2017 season on March 18 offering rides on historical trains, walking tours, a specialty gift shop and a museum to guests.

Train rides are available to the public every Saturday at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., President and CEO James Garnett said.

Admission into the Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum is free, with the exception of train rides, which cost $14 for those 12 years and older and $10 for ages 2-11. Train rides for children under 2 years old are free.

Guests have an opportunity to ride on trains that date from 1910 to the 1970s, some of which lack heating and cooling.

The Frisco Coach 1062 is the railroad museum’s oldest

24 | VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY

locomotive and a favorite among visitors, Garnett said. Train rides take passengers on a scenic route to view Shelby County’s countryside.

Guests are also welcome to take unguided walking tours to look at an array of locomotives on display and to visit the gift shop and a museum, which features operating standard gauge and narrow gauge trains, two restored depots and a collection of railroad artifacts and memorabilia.

The gift shop sells books about trains and railroad systems and various railroad souvenirs.

Throughout the year, several family friendly events that include train rides are hosted at the facility.

On April 8-9, the Cottontail Express event offers an opportunity for children to meet Peter Cottontail and participate in an Easter egg hunt.

The event will also include a bounce house,

temporary tattoos, a coloring station and a sandbox for kids.

In May, Thomas the Tank Engine visited the railroad museum for a Day Out with Thomas, Wild West Day will be held in July, the Pumpkin Patch Express is offered in October and the North Pole Express and the Santa Special take place in December.

The Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum also serves as a birthday party venue. Birthday parties are held on Saturdays only, and Thursdays are typically reserved for school field trips, Garnett said.

Museum hours are Tuesday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 2, and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Normal business hours don’t apply on event days. For more information or to purchase event or train ride tickets, go to Hodrrm.org

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VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY | 25

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

AMUSEMENTS THE AMERICAN VILLAGE

3727 Highway 119 South Montevallo, AL 35115 665-3535 Americanvillage.org Open Monday - Friday 10 a.m.

- 4 p.m.

A recreated colonial village and historic park on 113 acres features interactive programs with costumed historical interpreters who help visitors relive the great American experiment in liberty and selfgovernment.

OAK MOUNTAIN AMPHITHEATRE

1000 Amphitheatre Dr. Pelham, AL 35124 985-0703 Livenation.com/venues/14486 Each year between April and October, some of the world’s top musicians perform in this outdoor arena with 10,554 seats.

OLD BAKER FARM

184 Furrow Lane Harpersville, AL 35078 672-7209 Oldbakerfarm.com Established in 1899, the Old Baker Farm endured the Civil War and stands today as a traditional family farm with crops such as cotton, corn and pumpkins. The Baker family invites the public to join them each October for the Cotton Pickin’ Celebration.

STONE HOLLOW FARMSTEAD

2006 Dead Hollow Road North Harpersville, AL 35078 803-3585 Stonehollowfarmstead.com Stone Hollow Farmstead is a family business that produces the finest cheeses, honey, specialty foods, botanicals, cosmetic extracts and cosmeceuticals. In addition to production, the farmstead hosts groups and events.

GRIFFIN FARMS

6027 Highway 17 Helena, AL 35080 541-8150 Griffinfarmparties.com Griffin Farms is a family business that has a petting zoo and is also a venue for birthday parties, weddings and more. A large covered barn serves as an outdoor venue rain or shine.

THEATERS AMSTAR CINEMAS

820 Colonial Promenade Pkwy, Alabaster, AL 35007 621-8884 Amstarcinemas.com See website for daily show times.

CARMIKE CINEMAS – LEE BRANCH 15 801 Doug Baker Boulevard Birmingham, AL 35242 408-0526 Carmike.com See website for daily show times.

SHELBY IRON WORKS HARPERSVILLE 10268 County Road 42 DRIVE-IN Shelby, AL 35143 669-3137 or 670-0142 Shelbyironworks.com One of only two such mills existing in the South at the outbreak of the Civil War, this plant produced the armor that covered the hull of the famous Confederate gunboat “Tennessee.” The park features living history demonstrations and tours by request.

45 Woodland Rd Harpersville, AL 35078 672-8484 Harpersvilledrive-in.com See website for show times.

Drive-in features two 60-footby-26-foot movie screens made of corrugated tin painted with super flat white paint, and features parking for a total of 300 vehicles.

SOUTH CITY THEATRE 2969 Pelham Pkwy Suites J-K

26 | VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY

Pelham, AL 35124 621-2128 Southcitytheatre.com See website for performance schedule South City Theatre presents six live mainstage plays each year, attracting approximately 3,000 audience members annually.

UNIVERSITY OF MONTEVALLO THEATRE

Reynolds Hall, Station 6210 Montevallo, AL 35115 665-6210 Montevallo.edu/thea See website for performance schedule University of Montevallo Theatre Department presents several shows on-campus every year at Reynolds Theatre and the Chichester Black Box Theatre.

MUSEUMS ALDRICH COAL MINE MUSEUM 137 County Road 203 Montevallo, AL 35115 665-2886 This historic Industrial attraction features coal mining

memorabilia, a mine replica and vintage equipment photographs of the town of Aldrich at its coal-mining peak.

HEART OF DIXIE RAILROAD MUSEUM

1919 9th Street Calera, AL 35040 668-3435 Hodrrm.org Tuesday-Friday 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Saturday 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Train rides – Saturdays only The museum is dedicated to the operation of historically significant railway equipment.

All exhibits, operating trains and educational programs function as both unique means of tourism and recreation, and to preserve the rich history of Alabama and our nation.

KENNETH R. PENHALE CITY OF HELENA MUSEUM 5260 Helena Road Helena, AL 35080 369-1448 Open on Saturdays, but call for a free tour The Kenneth R. Penhale City of Helena Museum contains numerous artifacts,

photographs and other memorabilia revealing the city’s rich history as a mining town.

Council’s gallery features exhibits from several artists throughout the year.

KARL C. HARRISON MUSEUM OF GEORGE WASHINGTON

WINERIES

50 Lester Street Columbiana, AL 35051 669-8767 Washingtonmuseum.com Open Monday-Friday 10 a.m.

- 3 p.m.

The Karl C. Harrison Museum of George Washington houses one of the largest privately owned collections of George and Martha Washington memorabilia outside of Mt. Vernon.

SHELBY COUNTY MUSEUM AND ARCHIVES

1854 N. Main Street Columbiana, AL 35051 669-3912 Shelbycountymuseum.com Open Tuesday-Saturday 9 a.m.3 p.m.

The Shelby County Historical Society is dedicated to the discovery, collection and preservation of all things related to the history of Shelby County, Alabama.

ART GALLERIES GRIFFITH ART GALLERY

109 Hilltop Business Drive Pelham AL, 35124 985-7969 Griffithartgallery.com Open Tuesday-Saturday from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Griffith Art Gallery represents more than 100 artists, and features more than 2,500 original oil paintings.

SHELBY COUNTY ARTS COUNCIL

104 Mildred Street Columbiana, AL 35051 669-0044 Shelbycountyartscouncil.com Open Monday-Thursday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

The Shelby County Arts

LEWIS LAKES VINEYARDS

1075 Chelsea Road Columbiana, AL 35051 555-5555 Lewislakesvineyards.com As a family-owned business, Lewis Lakes Vineyards and winery are located on a 60acre farm, where each phase of the wine-making process, from planting to growth to harvest to bottling, is based in Alabama.

MORGAN CREEK WINERY

181 Morgan Creek Lane Harpersville, AL 35078 672-2053 Morgancreekwinery.com The Brammer family founded Morgan Creek Vineyards in the early 2000s, specializing in muscadine and fruit wines – semi-sweet to sweetish wines.

OZAN VINEYARD AND WINERY

173 Highway 301 Calera, AL 35040 668-6926 Ozanwine.com The Patrick family began planting grape vines in 2001 and converted part of their 24-acre country estate into a working vineyard with a winery and tasting room. Today, more than 2,000 vines are planted at Ozan.

VIZZINI FARMS WINERY

800 Highway 87 Calera, AL 35040 685-0655 Vizzinifarmswinery.com Vizzini Farms Winery was founded in 2005 by Tom and Deborah Vizzina and, in addition to serving customers in wine tastings and at the Bistro @ the Winery, Vizzini Farms hosts events and weddings.

VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY | 27

GOLF Greystone Golf and Country Club

Ballantrae Golf Club

Oak Mountain State Park Golf Course

GOLF COURSE

ADDRESS

Ballantrae Golf Club

1300 Ballantrae Club Drive

Deer Valley Links Golf Course

PUBLIC/ PRIVATE

HOLES

Pelham

Semi-Private

18

246 Cain Road

Chelsea

Public

9

Heatherwood Hills Country Club

400 St Annes Drive

Hoover

Public

18

Magnolia Meadows Golf Course

315 Highway 47 S

Columbiana

Public

18

Montevallo Golf Club

1481 Co. Rd 204

Montevallo

Public

18

Oak Mountain State Park Golf Course

877 John Findley Drive

Pelham

Public

18

Timberline Golf Club

300 Timberline Trail

Calera

Public

18

Inverness Country Club

1 Country Club Drive

Hoover

Private

18

Greystone Golf and Country Club - Founders

4100 Greystone Drive

Hoover

Private

18

Greystone Golf and Country Club - Legacy

4100 Greystone Drive

Hoover

Private

18

Riverchase Country Club

2000 Club Road

Hoover

Private

18

Shoal Creek Golf and Country Club

100 New Williamsburg Drive

Birmingham

Private

18

28 | VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY

CITY

Timberline Golf Club

Magnolia Meadows Golf Course

YARDAGE (BLUES)

PAR

RATING GREEN FEE (BLUES)

DRIVING RANGE

LESSONS PRO SHOP RESTAURANT/ SNACK BAR

7310

72

74.5

$33-63

yes

yes

yes

yes

2300

35

n/a

$11-20

yes

yes

yes

yes

6351

71

n/a

$25-50

yes

yes

yes

yes

3684

68

n/a

$22.50-27

yes

no

yes

no

5815

71

68.1

$16-36

yes

no

yes

no

6842

72

71.7

$23-49

yes

no

yes

yes

6745

71

72.3

$26-62

yes

yes

yes

yes

6672

71

71.9

$60

yes

yes

yes

yes

7299

72

75.8

n/a

yes

yes

yes

yes

6806

72

73.5

n/a

yes

yes

yes

yes

6842

72

73.3

$55-75

yes

yes

yes

yes

7264

72

75.7

$135-$250

yes

yes

yes

yes

VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY | 29

FARMERS MARKETS

PROOF IS IN THE PRODUCE Fresh fruits and vegetables available at local farmers markets

CALERA FARMERS MARKET

Oliver Park, 9758 Alabama 25 Open June through August Saturdays, 9 a.m. to noon Facebook.com/calerafarmersmarket

RIVERCHASE UNITED METHODIST MARKET

1953 Old Montgomery Highway Open May-August Thursdays, 1-5 p.m.

Riverchaseumc.org

COLUMBIANA FARMERS SOWERS OF SEED MARKET FARMERS MARKET West College Street Open March-October Saturdays, 7 a.m.

HELENA MARKET DAYS

Helena Amphitheatre, 4151 Helena Road Open June-August Saturdays, 8 a.m.-noon Helenamarketdays.com

MONTEVALLO FARMERS’ MARKET

660 Main Street Open June-August Mondays, 3-6 p.m.

Montevallofarmersmarket.blogspot. com

MT LAUREL FARMERS MARKET Manning Place Open June-October Saturdays, 8 a.m.-noon Mtlaurel.com

30 | VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY

Behind Alabaster Senior Center, 1097 7th Street SW Open June-August Saturdays, 8 a.m.-noon Cityofalabaster.com/residents/ farmers-market-2016/

VALLEYDALE FARMERS MARKET 4601 Valleydale Road Open May through August Saturdays, 8 a.m.-noon Valleydalefarmersmarket.com

INDIAN SPRINGS VILLAGE FARMERS MARKET

3375 Alabama 119 Open May-September Saturdays, 8 a.m.-noon Facebook.com/Indianspringsmarket

ATTRACTIONS

PARKS ABBY WOOLEY PARK

720 Park Road Alabaster, AL 35007 664-6840 Cityofalabaster.com Amenities include a playground, basketball court, swings, picnic table, restrooms and quartermile walking track.

AKRIDGE ARBORETUM PARK

1965 14th Street Calera, AL 35040 668-3884 Cityofcalera.org The Akridge Arboretum Park is a one acre park that was established in 1993 and developed around the Historic Presbyterian Church which is now used for weddings and reunions.

ALABASTER MUNICIPAL PARK

500 Warrior Drive Alabaster, AL 35007 664-6800 Cityofalabaster.com Amenities include four lighted tennis courts, two beach volleyball courts, 12 soccer fields, lighted practice field, two pavilions, grills, picnic tables, playground, restrooms and a snack bar for soccer games.

ALMONT PARK

255 Davis-Hawkins Street Montevallo, AL 35115 991-2015 Shelbycountyalabama.org The Almont Park property was donated to Shelby County by the Shelby County Board of Education. The park was financed and built, and is maintained by Shelby County.

BEESWAX CREEK PARK

245 Beeswax Park Road Columbiana, AL 35051 991-2015 Shelbycountyalabama.org Beeswax Creek Park is located on Lay Lake and has many water based amenities such as two paved boat launch facilities with a pier, two floating fishing piers;

one is handicap accessible, two picnic pavilions, and benches along the lake front with grills, a basketball court, a walking trail and restrooms.

BOB BOLTON FIELD

202 Washington Street Columbiana, AL 35051 663-4542 Cityofcolumbiana.com Amenities include a softball field, playground area, pavilion, baseball field, four lighted tennis courts and a recreation building.

BUCK CREEK PARK

701 6th Ave SW Alabaster, AL 35007 664-6840 Cityofalabaster.com Amenities include three softball fields, a football field with press box, eight picnic tables, a quarter-mile walking track with exercise stations and linear park, a concession stand with attached pavilion with six picnic tables, a gazebo, restrooms, a drinking fountain and two parking lots.

CAHABA LILY PARK

3200 Highway 52 West Helena, AL 35080 663-2161 Cityofhelena.org Cahaba Lily Park offers amenities such as a children’s playground, swing set, restrooms, picnic areas, four pavilions with grills and lighted walking trails.

CARROLL PARK

Hwy 31 South Pelham, AL 35124 620-6426 Pelhamonline.com Carroll Park is in Pelham’s Chandalar subdivision, and features a recreation area and a picnic area.

CHELSEA RECREATIONAL PARK

2966 Hwy 39 Chelsea, AL 35043 678-7260 Cityofchelsea.com Park features baseball/softball fields, batting cage, soccer fields, children’s playground with swings, pavilions, lighted paved walking track and parking.

COKER PARK

Hwy 72 Pelham, AL 35124 620-6426 Pelhamonline.com Park features a quarter-mile walking track, fitness area, playground and a picnic area.

COLUMBIANA SPORTS COMPLEX McDow Road Columbiana, AL 35051 669-5800 Cityofcolumbiana.com Amenities include four softball/ little league fields, concession stand in season, covered batting cages, soccer/football field, playground and swing sets, lighted walking trails and two pavilions.

CRESTVIEW NEIGHBORHOOD PARK

Bearden Road Pelham, AL 35124 620-6426 Pelhamonline.com Park features a playground and picnic area.

DEPOT PARK

100 Depot Street Alabaster, AL 35007 664-6840 Cityofalabaster.com Park features a pavilion, grills, lighted basketball courts and an open field.

ECO PARK AT UNIVERSITY LAKE

University of Montevallo Station 6215 Montevallo, AL 35115 665-6215 Montevallo.edu Park features an amphitheater, golf, picnic, picnic shelter and walking trail. The installation of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama Fitness Trail at UM’s University Lake has been completed. The trail is a 10 station par course that winds through the woods next to the 16-acre lake.

FOREST PARK AND RECREATIONAL AREA 100 Park Road Sterrett, AL

991-2015 Shelbycountyalabama.org Among the park features are basketball courts, a tot lot, three soccer fields, swings, a walking nature trail and restrooms.

FUN GO HOLLER PARK 100 Racquet Club Parkway Pelham, AL 35124 620-6400 Pelhamonline.com Fun Go Holler Park features a softball field with press box, children’s playground, lighted walking trail, basketball court and restrooms.

GEORGE DAILEY PARK 219 Selma Road Montevallo, AL 35115 665-9205 Cityofmontevallo.com Among the park features are a tot lot, a picnic pavilion, swings and a playground.

GEORGE W. ROY RECREATIONAL PARK

2465 2nd Ave N Calera, AL 35040 668-3500 Cityofcalera.org Amenities include four picnic pavilions, half-mile walking trail, playground and swing set, restrooms and play meadow.

GORMAN PARK

55 Vincent Park Road Vincent, AL 35178 672-2261 Townofvincent.com The park is on the Coosa River, and features a paved boat ramp, fishing piers, group pavilion, picnic areas, swing set, restrooms and walking trail.

HEARDMONT PARK

5458 Cahaba Valley Road Birmingham, AL 35242 991-2015 Shelbycountyalabama.com Park covers 74 acres, and includes the Oak Mountain High School football stadium with rubberized track, nine baseball/ softball fields, three soccer fields, playground facilities, walking trails, four lighted tennis courts and a senior center located within the park.

VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY | 31

ATTRACTIONS

HELENA SPORTS COMPLEX

100 Helena Sports Complex Way Helena, AL 35080 621-9904 Cityofhelena.org Park includes four baseball fields and a football field.

HELMS PARK

450 Nevins Street Wilsonville, AL 669-6180 Wilsonvilleal.com Park features baseball fields and a concession stand.

HEROES PARK

1950 Butler Road Alabaster, AL 35007 664-6840 Cityofalabaster.com Park features a walking track, a playground and picnic tables.

J.W. DONAHOO PARK

3001 Sun Valley Rd Harpersville, AL 35078 672-9961 Townofharpersville.com Park features a lighted baseball field, tennis courts, playground, picnic areas, play meadow, pavilions and paved walking trail.

JOE TUCKER PARK

Hwy 52 East Helena, AL 35080 620-2877 Cityofhelena.org Park features picnic areas, lighted ball fields, lighted tennis courts, lighted paved walking track, playgrounds, fishing, pavilions and an open air chapel.

LIMESTONE PARK

2400 Hwy 31 South Alabaster, AL 664-6840 Cityofalabaster.com Park features a training facility, shooting range for police and fire, airstrip, pavilion, walking trails, nature area, picnic area and birding observation deck.

OAK MEADOW PARK

345 Hebb Road Wilsonville, AL 35186 669-6180 Wilsonvilleal.com Park features playground, swing set, picnic areas, play meadow,

pavilions, paved walking trail, soccer field and restrooms.

OAK MOUNTAIN STATE PARK

200 Terrace Drive Pelham, AL 35124 620-2520 Alapark.com/parks Park is open daily from 7 a.m.- 7 p.m.

Alabama’s largest state park offers vacation cottages, golf, pro shop with snack bar, improved camping, picnicking, swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, mountain bike trails, backpacking, a demonstration farm and horseback riding and equestrian campground facilities.

OLIVER PARK

9758 Hwy 25 Calera, AL 35040 668-3500 Cityofcalera.org Park features four baseball fields, picnic pavilions, tennis and basketball courts, a nature trail, football and soccer practice fields and the Calera High School football stadium.

ORR PARK

Montevallo, AL 35115 665-9205 Cityofmontevallo.com Park features two playgrounds, six baseball/softball fields, a walking trail, a football field and a practice field.

PEA RIDGE COMMUNITY PARK

6161 Hwy 10 Montevallo, AL 35115 665-1469 The park features a walking trail, baseball field, playground and restroom facilities.

PELHAM CITY PARK

U.S. 31 South Pelham, AL 35124 620-6400 Pelhamonline.com Park features two playgrounds, six baseball/softball fields, a walking trail, a football field and a practice field, three concession stands with restroom facilities, six batting cages, 11 hardsurface tennis courts and tennis center.

32 | VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY

SHELBY PARK

118 School Road Shelby, AL 35143 991-2015 Shelbycountyalabama.com Park features include a baseball/ softball field, a playground with swings and two picnic pavilions.

SONNY PENHALE PARK

1350 Penhale Parkway Helena, AL 621-9904 Cityofhelena.org Penhale Park serves as the city’s sports complex. The park has lighted baseball and soccer fields.

SPAIN PARK SPORTS COMPLEX

Valleydale Road Hoover, AL 444-7777 Hooveral.org Park features two baseball fields, two softball fields, public batting cages and a children’s playground.

STEPHEN’S PARK

Highway 10 Montevallo, AL 665-9205 Cityofmontevallo.com Four lighted baseball/softball fields, playground, concession stand, fishing lake, walking/ biking trails, four batting cages, restrooms.

STERRETT PARK 520 Highway 469 Sterrett, AL 35147 670-6550

VANDIVER PARK

12177 Hwy 43 Vandiver, AL 35176 991-2015 Shelbycountyalabama.com Park is located next to the Vandiver Volunteer Fire Department and has a paved walking trail, a basketball court, a playground with swing sets, a play meadow and 4 picnic pavilions.

VETERANS PARK ALABASTER 7305 Hwy 119 Alabaster, AL 35007

664-6840 Park features five youth baseball/softball fields with a concession stand and press box, two miles of lighted walking tracks with benches, regulation size skatepark, a bluebird trail, two playground areas, restrooms, nine pavilions available for rental, several play meadows, batting cages and an arbor.

VETERANS PARK HOOVER

4800 Valleydale Road Hoover, AL 35242 444-7500 Hooveral.org Park features 5K and 8K cross country courses, four beach volleyball courts, two pavilions, and two children’s playgrounds with swing sets.

VINCENT MUNICIPAL PARK Highway 231 and Hwy 62 Vincent, AL 35178 672-2261 Townofvincent.com Park features baseball fields, walking track, picnic pavilion, and concessions in season.

WARRIOR PARK

100 City Park Lane Alabaster, AL 35007 664-6840 Cityofalabaster.com Park features four youth baseball/softball fields with press box, batting cages, concession stand in season, picnic tables, playground and restrooms.

WESTOVER PARK

3312 Westover Road Westover, AL 35147 678-3375 Westoveralabama.org Park features three youth soccer fields, playground, swings, lighted and paved walking trail, pavilions, restrooms and parking lot.

YELLOW LEAF PARK

McGowan Road Wilsonville, AL 35186 669-6180 Wilsonvilleal.com Park has a softball field with batting cages and a concession

ATTRACTIONS stand that operates during the season. Restrooms are located near the concession stand.

TENNIS PELHAM RACQUET CLUB

100 Racquet Club Parkway Pelham, AL 35124 621-3380 Pelhamracquetclub.com The Racquet Club is open seven days a week.

Monday - Thursday: 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Friday: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Saturday: 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Sunday: Noon-6 p.m.

The Pelham Racquet Club is a public tennis facility consisting of 20 clay courts and five hard courts, all lighted with above tournament grade lighting.

PELHAM TENNIS CENTER

315 Ball Park Road Pelham, AL 35124 620-6428 Pelhamracquetclub.com Tennis Center features nine hard, wheelchair-accessible courts all lighted with water coolers and player benches, club house complete with a full kitchen, fireplace and roomy sitting area and restrooms.

HEARDMONT PARK

5458 Cahaba Valley Road Birmingham, AL 35242 991-2015 Shelbycountyalabama.com Park includes four lighted tennis courts

ALABASTER MUNICIPAL PARK

500 Warrior Drive Alabaster, AL 35007 664-6800 Cityofalabaster.com Amenities include four lighted tennis courts.

BOB BOLTON FIELD

202 Washington Street Columbiana, AL 35051 669-5800 Cityofcolumbiana.com Amenities include four lighted tennis courts.

J.W. DONAHOO PARK 3001 Sun Valley Rd Harpersville, AL 35078 672-9961 Townofharpersville.com Park features tennis courts.

JOE TUCKER PARK

Hwy 52 East Helena, AL 35080 621-9904 Cityofhelena.org Park features lighted tennis courts.

OLIVER PARK

Hwy 25 Calera, AL 35040 668-3500 Cityofcalera.org Park features tennis courts.

SWIMMING POOLS ALABASTER YMCA

117 Plaza Circle Alabaster, AL 35007 663-7240 Ymcabham.org/alabaster Open Monday-Thursday: 5 a.m.

- 10 p.m.

Friday: 5 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Saturday: 7 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Sunday: 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Alabaster YMCA features a new, six-lane wheelchairaccessible swimming pool.

GREYSTONE YMCA

5414 U.S. 280 Birmingham, AL 35242 981-0144 Ymcabham.org/greystone Open Monday-Thursday: 5 a.m.

- 9:30 p.m.

Friday: 5 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Saturday: 7 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Sunday: 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.

The Greystone branch offers recreational and lap heated pools and one baby pool.

PELHAM YMCA

2610 Pelham Parkway Pelham, AL 35124 664-9622 Open Monday-Friday: 5 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Saturday: 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Sunday: 1 - 6 p.m.

Ymcabham.org/pelham Pelham branch features an

indoor and outdoor pool.

SPORTS VENUES OAK MOUNTAIN STATE PARK

877 Findlay Drive Pelham, AL 35124 620-2520 Alapark.com/parks Park is open daily from 7 a.m.

- 7 p.m.

Alabama’s largest state park offers vacation cottages, golf, pro shop with snack bar, improved camping, picnicking, swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, mountain bike trails, backpacking, a demonstration farm and horseback riding and equestrian campground facilities. Several trail run and bike races are held at the park every year.

PELHAM CIVIC COMPLEX AND ICE ARENA

500 Amphitheater Road Pelham, AL 35124 620-6448 Pelhamciviccomplex.com See website for event and public skating times Pelham Civic Complex offers public ice skating sessions every day, as well as skate and hockey lessons and competitions.

Venue is the home ice for the University of Alabama Frozen Tide hockey team.

SPORTS BLAST AND 1996 FIELDS SOCCER COMPLEX

19220 Hwy 280 East Chelsea, AL 35242 980-1701 Office hours are from 10 a.m.

- 5 p.m.

Complex hours vary, call for more information.

The 1996 Fields complex has more than 50 acres on site including six soccer fields behind the Sports Blast facility.

Sports Blast is a multi-field indoor sports facility.

VETERANS PARK HOOVER

4800 Valleydale Road

Hoover, AL 35242 444-7500 Hooveral.org Park features a professionally developed cross-country course and is host to the Great American Cross Country Race.

LAY LAKE

Wilsonville, AL Laylake.info This 12,000-acre lake has 289 miles of shoreline and has played host to the Bass Masters Classic Tournament. Lay Lake is best known for its spotted bass and largemouth bass fishing.

VETERANS PARK ALABASTER

Veterans Park Alabaster 7305 Hwy 119 Alabaster, AL 35007 664-6800 Events hosted at facility include numerous baseball and softball tournaments including the Alabama Community College Conference Championships.

PELHAM RACQUET CLUB

100 Racquet Club Parkway Pelham, AL 35124 621-3380 The facility hosts approximately 15 tournaments a year including the USTA ProTennis Challenger featuring participants from 27 nations.

In addition to tournaments; lessons, league play, ladders and socials are active year round.

UNIVERSITY OF MONTEVALLO STUDENT ACTIVITY CENTER

75 College Drive Montevallo, AL 35115 665-6230 Montevallo.edu/sac/ For hours, visit Montevallo.edu/ sac/hours.shtm The Robert M. McChesney Student Activity Center (SAC) is a 90,000-square-foot, state-ofthe-art recreation and athletic center. It includes facilities for weight/cardio training, racquetball, wall ball, walking and swimming.

VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY | 33

Feels Like Home Shelby County housing market continues to grow and attract buyers Story by LAUREN DOWDLE

S

panning 800 square miles, Shelby County mixes southern charm, natural beauty and plenty of new, trendy spots for residents to enjoy.

It has a little bit of everything, including top-notch schools, stunning parks, an array of shopping, tasty restaurants, close proximity to downtown Birmingham and plenty of friendly faces. So, it should come as no surprise that it tops Alabama’s list for its growth.

“Shelby County is the fastest growing county in the state,” says Mechelle Wilder, partner, associate broker at ARC Realty. “It has some of the best schools in the state, and it’s good with job growth.

As long as we continue to improve on those factors, we won’t have a problem with home sales.”

The county also ranks among the 100 highestincome counties in the country.

For people looking to buy or sell a home in Shelby County, they can expect to find a market that’s fairly even on whether it leans toward benefiting buyers or sellers the most.

“We’re still pretty steady in our market growth,” Wilder says. “We’re having 1 to 3 percent appreciation in most areas over the mountain.” She adds the growth in Shelby County is a little slower

34 | VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY

“Shelby County is the fastest growing county in the state. It has some of the best schools in the state, and it’s good with job growth. As long as we continue to improve on those factors, we won’t have a problem with home sales.”

— Mechelle Wilder than places like Mountain Brook and Vestavia Hills.

In 2016, Shelby County had 4,294 homes sold, an average price of $245,283 and 358 homes absorbed in the market a month, according to ARC Realty.

For comparison, 2,554 homes sold, the average sale price was $216,908, the market absorbed 212 homes per month and the average number of days in the market was 161 in 2010. Shelby County has seen improvement in all of those numbers in the past few years.

New construction hasn’t done as well, though, and there are fewer new builds currently on the market. In 2016, there were 731 new homes sold (compared to 2,264 new homes sold in 2006), the average price was $270,531, the market absorbed 61 homes a month and the average days on the market for a new home was 119.

Since the county is so large, the housing market varies for each city — providing a range of housing options and prices for buyers. Calera has been an especially popular area because of its entry-level home prices, Wilder says. The average home sales

price there is $142,000, she says.

The 280 housing market has been OK, she says, but homes priced above $500,000 are slower to sell there — which is true countywide.

Shelby County continues to attract young families because of the good school system, but they are looking for smaller homes in the area.

Wilder says the younger generation as a whole is choosing homes with about 1,500 to 1,800 square feet.

“Millennials don’t want the big houses,” Wilder explains. “They’re buying smaller homes. They just don’t want that much house and square footage to take care of anymore. They’d rather spend their money on vacations, experiences and things like that. Plus, people are waiting to have children,

VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY | 35

so they don’t need the large houses like that right now.”

The improving economy has also helped the market improve. With interest rates expected to go up, buyers that were on the fence about purchasing a home are now starting to make their moves.

“At the end of the day, the interest rate increases are nothing compared to what we saw several years back,” Wilder says.

On the other end of things, homeowners looking to sell can have the most success by updating their homes and pricing them to sale. Wilder’s advice to sellers is to make their homes as move-in ready as

36 | VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY

possible.

“Buyers have watched HGTV and know what’s out there,” Wilder says. “They would rather put money in the mortgage than pay to do the updates themselves.”

Having updated bathrooms and kitchens still top the list for most prospective homebuyers, and outdoor entertainment areas have also started catching people’s interest and becoming a bigger draw for buyers. Owners don’t have to do a complete overhaul to impress buyers: Something as simple as adding a fresh coat of paint can make a huge difference.

SHELBY Living

Best of the Best

2014

Shelby County

WINNER

2016

Getting settled in Shelby County Story by GRACE THORNTON

M

oving to Shelby County? Haven’t figured out where all the important stuff is to make yourself an official resident?

We’ve got you covered.

Here are all the things you need to know.

TO GET A DRIVER’S LICENSE If you’re moving to Shelby County from out-of-state, you will need to show either an original certified birth certificate or valid United States passport (or your passport and resident alien card), your former state license, your Social Security card and —if you’re under the age of 19 — proof of school enrollment, graduation certificate or

diploma.

You will also pay a $36.25 license fee plus a $5 transfer fee.

LOCAL LICENSE OFFICE LOCATIONS: Columbiana 104 Depot Street Columbiana, AL 35051 38 | VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY

205-670-6836 Pelham 1018 County Services Drive Pelham, AL 35124 205-620-6600 Inverness Inverness Corners Shopping Center Suite 310 Hoover, AL 35242 205-670-6826 AUTO REGISTRATION If you’re moving to Shelby County from out-ofstate, you have 30 days to register your vehicle in the county before facing penalties.

If you own your vehicle, you must provide the out-of-state title in your name, proof of insurance, proof of residency in Shelby County, the current registration from your former state and a valid driver’s license for each owner.

Proof of residency can be done with a current apartment lease, a deposit on utilities in the applicant’s name, a current utility bill for a Shelby County residence in the applicant’s name or military orders to Shelby County with a current

date.

If your vehicle is financed or leased, more steps are required — view the full list at https://www.shelbyal.com/index. aspx?NID=624.

The vehicle must also be present for a VIN inspection at the office.

You can register your vehicles at the driver’s license offices listed above.

VOTING You can register to vote online at alabamavotes.gov.

You must be able to provide a Shelby County physical address for your residence.

An eligible voter must: •Be a United States citizen •Live in the State of Alabama •Be at least 18 years old •Not be barred from voting by reason of a disqualifying felony conviction •Not be judged “mentally incompetent” in a court of law •Be a resident of the city for 30 days (for municipal elections).

You can find your polling station at https://myinfo. alabamavotes.gov/VoterView/PollingPlaceSearch.do.

VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY | 39

TAXES When April 15 rolls around, Alabama takes its income taxes at 2 percent, 4 percent or 5 percent rates, and cities and counties are allowed to collect local taxes as well.

Depending on status and income, some residents can claim a standard deduction of up to $7,500.

That amount is reduced based on income, and for married taxpayers filing jointly, the ceiling for that deduction is $4,000.

For single people, heads of families and married people filing separate returns, tax rates in Alabama are: u2% on the first $500 of taxable income. u4% on taxable income between $501 and $3,000. u5% on all taxable income over $3,000.

For married people filing joint returns: u2% on the first $1,000 of taxable income. u4% on taxable income between $1,001 and $6,000. u5% on all taxable income over $6,000.

You can download income tax forms here: http://revenue.alabama.gov/incometax/ generaltaxforms.cfm.

40 | VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY

FINDING THE PERFECT NEIGHBORHOOD

W

Story by STAFF REPORTS hen shopping for a home, it’s easy for buyers to fall in love with a property. A well-maintained home with updated features can be hard to resist, but buyers must consider more than just a home’s appearance before submitting an offer.

One variable prospective home buyers tend to value more highly than others is the neighborhood where they will ultimately choose to live. Many buyers even value neighborhoods more than homes, feeling they can always fix a home but cannot necessarily fix an undesirable neighborhood. When considering which neighborhood to begin a home search, buyers should research a host of factors.

CRIME Crime statistics are public domain, meaning buyers can examine crime figures for any neighborhood where they are considering buying a home. Some real estate websites list neighborhood crime ratings among the information they offer about a given property.

In addition, buyers interested in learning about crime in a given neighborhood can visit a site such as CrimeReports.com to access data on crimes committed near a particular address.

for a reason. Work with your realtor to find a neighborhood where you can afford a home and where property values are not in decline.

HOME VALUES Home values are another factor to consider when choosing a neighborhood in which to buy a home. Buyers can work with a local realtor to find a neighborhood or area where real estate prices are trending upwards. While buyers might be able to find a great deal on a home in a neighborhood where home prices are dropping, it’s important to remember those home prices are dropping

COMMUTE Quality of life is heavily influenced by commute time. Many men and women feel their quality of life improves dramatically the shorter their daily commute is. When considering a particular neighborhood, do a test run before making an offer on a home. Wake up early and drive to the area where you are thinking of buying, and then commute from there during rush hour.

AMENITIES The proximity of amenities such as shopping, restaurants and parks is attractive to many buyers, and that’s something all buyers should consider before buying a home. Even if you prefer a remote location, that could limit your market of buyers when you want to sell the home down the road.

VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY | 41

Serving our students Public and private schools meet the needs of tens of thousands of students each year Story by SAMANTHA HURST

B

eing a parent in general is tough.

Being a parent attempting to ensure your child has the best education can be particularly daunting.

Luckily, the educational systems and organizations in Shelby County provide parents with an array of options. Four public school systems, as well as a variety of private institutions, lead the charge of educating thousands of students each day.

ALABASTER CITY SCHOOLS Established in 2013, this school system aims to become a partner with families in preparing future graduates. Alabaster City Schools is led by Superintendent Dr. Wayne Vickers and includes

42 | VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY

two elementary schools, an intermediate school, a sixth grade center, a middle school and a high school. This tight-knit community encourages students through a long list of educational and extracurricular activities beyond the classroom, as well as programs to support families such as after-school meals.

For more information, call 205-663-8400 or visit alabasterschools.org.

HOOVER CITY SCHOOLS Hoover City Schools has been named one of the Best School Districts in Alabama and one of the Best Places to Teach in Alabama. With almost 20 schools, this system crosses both Jefferson and Shelby counties. The system’s mission is, “In a safe, caring atmosphere of teaching and learning, Hoover City Schools

Come experience the best library in Shelby County!

5521 Cahaba Valley Road near Heardmont Park (205) 439-5500 www.northshelbylibrary.org

provide each student with opportunities to develop exemplary character and achieve personal excellence through a rigorous and relevant curriculum.” Superintendent Dr. Kathy Murphy leads Hoover City Schools. For more information, call 205-439-1000 or visit hoovercityschools.net.

PELHAM CITY SCHOOLS Teachers, staff and board members of the Pelham City School system work together to build up students and families in this newly-formed district. The system’s mission aims “to uphold an emphasis on academic and personal excellence; to nurture a desire to become a life-long learner; to foster a sense of community, while appreciating our diverse culture,” all in a safe environment for students.

Dr. Scott Coefield spent nine years as a superintendent in various school systems and is now leading Pelham City Schools. For more information, call 205-624-3700 or visit pelhamcityschools.org.

VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY | 43

SHELBY COUNTY SCHOOLS Teachers and support personnel broaden the minds of more than 20,000 students within the Shelby County Schools system each day.

A total of 31 schools make up this district for which the mission is to make every student a graduate. System-wide staff also aim to make

sure every graduate is well prepared for life after high school through advanced courses, career technical programs and a variety of extracurricular activities. The system has a long history of unique programs to benefit all facets of student life. Dr. Randy Fuller has served as superintendent for Shelby County Schools for the past 11 years. For more information, call 205-682-

FROM WITHIN OUR HALLS DEIDRE DOWNS

Deidre Downs won the title of Miss America in 2005. Also a graduate of Pelham High School, Downs became Miss Alabama after attending Samford University. When she completed her reign she went on to medical school at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and is currently a physician there.

JOHN GREEN

Author of The Fault in Our Stars, John Green attended Indian Springs School before making it on The New York Times Best Seller list. He had previously written Looking for Alaska, apparently inspired on 44 | VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY

his own experiences as a teen at Indian Springs. The Fault in Our Stars was eventually adapted to become a box office hit.

MICHAEL MCCULLERS

Shelby County students also have quite the humorous side. Michael McCullers, a former Indian Springs graduate, is a comedy screenwriter and director, who wrote for SNL and two Austin Powers movies. He also wrote and directed Baby Mama with Tina Fey and Amy Poehler.

DABO SWINNEY

Five years ago, Dabo Swinney visited Pelham High School on tour as the new

head coach of the Clemson Tigers. For one of the tour’s only stops in Alabama, Swinney visited his alma mater to greet fans. Swinney played for the Panthers before going on to play as a wide receiver for the University of Alabama as part of its 1992 championship team.

CAT WHITEHILL

Catherine Reddick Whitehill attended Briarwood Christian School before making her mark as an American soccer player.

Whitehill, who is now retired from the sport, played for the United States women’s national soccer team from 2000-2010.

She most recently played for the Boston Breakers.

7000 visit shelbyed.k12.al.us.

PRIVATE SCHOOLS For some families, public school doesn’t feel like the best fit for their children. Whether you are looking for a school more centered on your religious beliefs or feel you want a different structure than typical public school, you can find it here.

There are Christian schools such as Briarwood Christian School, Kingwood Christian School, Oak Mountain Presbyterian School, Cornerstone Christian School, Coosa Valley Academy and Hope Christian School that embrace training students to not only be high-achievers in math and language, but also followers of the Bible.

Evangel Christian also offers a Christ-based program for homeschooled students.

With about 300 students attending its classes, Indian Springs School offers another option to traditional public or private institutions. The boarding school, established in 1952, brings local students and students from around the world together for a unique learning opportunity.

There are also several Montessori schools in Shelby County, including Hilltop Montessori and Joseph Bruno Montessori Academy. Montessori schools use self-correcting techniques to allow children to learn at their own pace rather than a pre-determined lesson plan. Both of these schools currently enroll preschool through eighth-grade students.

HIGHER EDUCATION Learning doesn’t end in Shelby County when one grabs their high school diploma. If a family and student hopes to stay close to home for higher education, it can be done right in their own county. The University of Montevallo was founded in 1896 and remains a well-regarded liberal-arts college. About 3,300 students currently attend this four-year institution.

Meanwhile, many other students also aim to get their associate’s degrees or start initial college courses through Jefferson State Community College. Students can begin their focus here in childhood development, business and finance, nursing or radiological studies and more.

Hollie Brown education major Calera, Alabama

Quick Facts 35+

degree programs with approximately 60 MAJOR/CONCENTRATION combinations

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NCAA Division II sports teams

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I am becoming... a competitive cheerleader a scholarship recipient

an elementary school teacher

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What will you become? www.montevallo.edu www.montevallo.edu | (205) 665-6030 admissions@montevallo.edu | #futurevallo VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY | 45

Disc Golf

Enjoy walking our 18 hole disc golf course at Veterans Park. Featuring tight shot among the trees and long drives through open fields.

Dog Park One of the few dog parks in central Alabama this park boasts two separate areas for large and small breeds.

Jazz in the Park

Bring a blanket or a lawn chair and enjoy the smooth sounds of Jazz on our Municipal Green.

A la b a st er LO

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F a r m e r ’s M a r k e t C A L . E AT LO

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Farmer’s Market

Running from June to August enjoy fresh fruits, vegetables, and entertainment every Saturday 8 until noon.

Fall Fest

The last Saturday in October Buck Creek Trail is transformed into a fall craft and Halloween festival.

Miles of Nature Trails

Meander along the Buck Creek Trail that winds under the shade of the trees along the banks of Buck Creek.

Active Senior Center Our Seniors don’t stay still they get active with classes, trips, and service projects.

Centrally Located Perfectly located less than 3.5 hours from the beach, Alabaster has over one million square feet of retail. We have it all.

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cityofalabaster.com Your Central Destination for Fun and Adventure in Central Alabama VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY | 47

Expressing Shelby County Story by AMALIA KORTRIGHT

T

he fine arts programs in Shelby County are a few of the many features that make this county one of the best places to live in and visit in the state.

South City Theatre, the Montevallo Main Street Players and the Shelby County Arts Council are each located in different parts of the area, so artistic and theatrical enrichment is available to residents and visitors all over Shelby County.

According to Artistic Director Sue Ellen Gerrells, South City Theatre in Pelham is North Shelby County’s main source for community theater.

“Because of our location, we are close enough to downtown Birmingham without it being a terrible commute for them,” Gerrells said.

“Sometimes, community theater gets a bad rap.

It gives some people a place to call home.”

It was originally founded in 1998 in Alabaster

48 | VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY

by Alan and Francie Gardner in order to bring more theater opportunities to the community.

“It’s gone through a lot of different changes.

We’ve been going strong for the last 16 years,” Gerrells said.

South City Theatre produces six main stage shows per year, two of which travel to the Homewood Public Library.

South City Theatre also offers two yearly productions and a summer camp for kids.

“This is providing an outlet for kids who can’t get any other theatre experience,” Gerrells said.

At the Pelham location, the theater can seat up to 60 people comfortably. On average, their shows attract 3,000 audience members annually.

Gerrells said South City Theatre is run solely through volunteer effort, and would not be functional without them and those who pay to see its shows.

“That takes a huge commitment on the part of our volunteers, to be able to manage a facility,” Gerrells said.

Place 3

The Montevallo Main Street Players and the Shelby County Arts Council offer creative outlets for actors, visual artists and musicians in South Shelby County.

Board Vice President Jake Beaty said Montevallo Main Street Players is the oldest active community theater organization in Shelby County. Montevallo Main Street Players was founded in 1972 by professors at the University of Montevallo.

“We do our best to offer people a place to come and be a part of the arts,” Beaty said. “We try to be an educational organization as much as we are about arts and entertainment.”

According to Beaty, Montevallo Main Street Players is a registered nonprofit organization that performs about three shows per year.

In addition to locals, Beaty said Montevallo Main Street Players attracts people from all over the county from all backgrounds and experience levels to learn about theater.

“We pull people from the Birmingham area quite a bit,” Beaty said. “I’ve seen a lot of people who never knew that they wanted to be involved with theatre realize that this is what they want to do here.”

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Beaty said Montevallo Main Street Players is not officially affiliated with the University of Montevallo. However, many students have gotten involved over the years.

Most of Montevallo Main Street Players’ shows are typically performed in the theater at the Parnell Memorial Library. According to Beaty, Montevallo Main Street Players had a major role in bringing the 142-seat theater space to the library when it was first built.

“When the city got ready to build the new library, we got with the city and had a series of fundraising galas and raised a significant amount of money,” Beaty said. “We came up with the thoughts and designs of what it should be like.

There are a few layout issues, but we’ve learned to work with them. We’ve got an up-to-date, fully operational theater.”

For visual artists and musicians, the Shelby County Arts Council in Columbiana is the place to be.

“Our mission is to infuse arts and cultural opportunities into the community at every level,” Executive Director Bruce Andrews said.

The Shelby County Arts Council hosts 5-10 art 50 | VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY

exhibitions a year and regularly invites local and touring musicians to perform in its Black Box Theatre.

To reach out to youth in the area, the Shelby County Arts Council has developed Artabilities, an art program for special needs kids, Take Back Our Kids for residents at the Shelby County Juvenile Detention Center, three summer art camps, a summer theater camp and several programs in 17 Shelby County schools.

“An imaginative and creative mind is the opposite of a hopeless and destructive mind.

Those opportunities help kids discover their creative selves,” Andrews said. “At the heart of every community is its youth.”

Adult classes in painting, pottery, jewelry making, photography, drawing, music and writing are also offered.

Andrews said the Shelby County Arts Council, originally known as Columbiana Fine Arts, was founded in 2005 by Terri Sullivan, who has since gone on to pursue her professional career.

From painting, to music to theater, there is something for everybody in all areas of Shelby County.

VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY | 51

Shelby County Libraries:

Centers of Community Story by SAMANTHA HURST

S

tep into a library from North Shelby to Montevallo and find inside an expanse of resources far beyond hushed corners reserved for diving into a new book.

Shelby County boasts 14 libraries today, serving its more than 210,000 residents.

Katie Guerin, director of the North Shelby and Mt Laurel libraries, said these libraries serve as much as community centers as they do a quiet nook.

“Libraries have changed rapidly, especially in the last five years,” Guerin said. “In the world we live in, where people have gotten used to instant gratification, we’re trying to meet people where they are.”

This especially means staying tech savvy.

Patrons can now review their library accounts through a mobile app and can use a program called Hoopla to check out movies and audio books on their tablets. Librarians and assistants now also offer device advice.

Pelham Public Library Director Mary Campbell said staff connect the public to technology that remains beyond everyday reach for some citizens.

“We [libraries] have always been there leading the way,” Campbell said. “Now that tech has become more affordable, no one is teaching people how to use it.”

If you aren’t sure how to use that Galaxy 7 phone your grandson gave you for Christmas – go to the library. They will help you set up preferences and show you how to access free resources through the

library system. Guerin said they even offer patrons the chance to checkout mobile hotspots to take home with them.

Libraries also remain an institute of early learning. It is in these hallowed homes to biographies, mysteries, nursery rhymes and chapter books that children discover the wonder of books.

“It’s so important that kids have a good start with reading and that will always be a big focus for us,” said Campbell.

Most of Shelby County’s public libraries launch their summer reading series in early June with the programs running through the end of summer.

These events reward kids for reading as many books as they can during the summer break.

Adults can join in the fun of learning too at Shelby County libraries.

There are classes on gardening, groups that meet to knit and programs demonstrating how 3D printers work. Speakers also often visit branches to discuss a wide array of topics from selecting the right 401k to surviving in the wilderness.

Entertainment finds its home in Shelby County’s libraries as well. In branches such as Parnell Memorial Library in Montevallo, art collections and exhibits line the walls. In Montevallo, the library also boasts a theatre/auditorium poised for a children’s program, play or community gathering.

These features only begin to cover what these libraries mean to the communities for which they serve.

“People have a lot of choices in life,” Guerin said.

“We want to make sure the choice to come to the library is an easy one.”

VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY | 59

LIBRARIES

ALABASTER

CHELSEA

HELENA

VINCENT

ALBERT L. SCOTT LIBRARY

CHELSEA PUBLIC LIBRARY

JANE B. HOLMES LIBRARY

VINCENT MCGRAW PUBLIC LIBRARY

100 9th Street NW, Alabaster, AL 35007 Phone: 205-664-6822 Hours: Monday, Tuesday and Thursday 9 a.m.-7:50 p.m.

Wednesday 10 a.m.-5:50 p.m.

Friday 9 a.m.-5:50 p.m.

Saturday 10 a.m.-4:50 p.m.

Sunday 1-4:50 p.m.

Meeting room, computer center and Wi-Fi available

41 Weldon Dr., Chelsea, Al 35043 Phone: 205-618-8455 Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Tuesday 9 a.m.-7 p.m.

Saturday 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Sunday Closed Computer center and Wi-Fi available

BIRMINGHAM COLUMBIANA MT LAUREL LIBRARY

111 Olmsted Street, Birmingham, Al 35242 Phone: 205-991-1660 Monday and Thursday 10 a.m.-7 p.m.

Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Saturday 10 a.m.- 2 p.m.

Sunday Closed Meeting room, computer center and Wi-Fi available

NORTH SHELBY LIBRARY

5521 Cahaba Valley Rd., Birmingham, AL 35242 Phone: 205-439-5500 Hours: Monday and Thursday 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Saturday 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Sunday 1-5 p.m.

Meeting room, computer center and Wi-Fi available

CALERA ROY DOWNS MEMORIAL LIBRARY

9700 Hwy 25, Calera, AL 35040 Phone: 205-668-3514 Hours: Monday and Tuesday 8 a.m.-7 p.m.

Wednesday and Thursday 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

Friday 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Saturday 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Sunday Closed Meeting room, computer center and Wi-Fi available

MILDRED B. HARRISON REGIONAL LIBRARY

50 Lester Street, Columbiana, AL 35051 Phone: 205-669-3910 Hours: Monday – Friday 8 a.m.4 p.m.

Saturday-Sunday Closed Meeting room, computer center and Wi-Fi available

COLUMBIANA PUBLIC LIBRARY

50 Lester Street, Columbiana, Al 35051 Phone: 205-669-5812 Hours: Monday, Wednesday and Friday 9 a.m.-4:50 p.m.

Tuesday and Thursday 9 a.m.7:50 p.m.

Saturday 9 a.m.-12 noon Sunday Closed Meeting room, computer center and Wi-Fi available

HARPERSVILLE HARPERSVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY 39414 Hwy 25, Harpersville, Al 35078 Phone: 205-672-8336 Hours: Monday 2-6 p.m.

Tuesday 12-8 p.m.

Wednesday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Thursday 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Friday, Saturday and Sunday Closed Computer center available

60 | VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY

230 Tucker Rd., Helena, Al 35080 Phone: 205-664-8308 Monday and Thursday 10 a.m.-7 p.m.

Tuesday and Wednesday 10 a.m.- 6 p.m.

Friday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Saturday 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Sunday Closed Meeting room, computer center and Wi-Fi available

MONTEVALLO PARNELL MEMORIAL LIBRARY

277 Park Drive, Montevallo, Al 35115 Phone: 205-665-9207 Hours: Monday, Wednesday and Friday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Tuesday and Thursday 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

Saturday 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Sunday Closed Amphitheatre, meeting room, computer center and Wi-Fi available

PELHAM PELHAM PUBLIC LIBRARY

PO Box 1627, 3160 Pelham Pkwy | Pelham | 35124 Phone: 205-620-6418 Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 9 a.m.-7:50 p.m.

Friday 9 a.m.-4:50 p.m.

Saturday 10 a.m.-4:50 p.m.

Sunday Closed Meeting Room, Computer Center, & Wi-Fi Available

42860 Hwy 25 | Vincent | 35178 Phone: 205-672-2749 Hours: Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.5 p.m.

Friday-Sunday Closed Meeting room, computer center and Wi-Fi available

WESTOVER WESTOVER PUBLIC LIBRARY

3312 Westover Rd., Westover, Al 35147 Phone: 205-678-3375 Hours: Monday and Wednesday 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Saturday 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday Closed Computer center and Wi-Fi available

WILSONVILLE VERNICE STOUDENMIRE PUBLIC LIBRARY

9905 N. Main Street | Wilsonville | 35186 Phone: 205-669-6180 Hours: Monday 1-5 p.m.

Tuesday and Wednesday 10 a.m.- 5 p.m.

Thursday 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Friday 1-6 p.m.

Saturday Closed Sunday Closed Computer center available

Shelby County Schools

Every Student a Graduate.

Every Graduate Prepared.

Shelby County Schools BOARD OF EDUCATION

Aubrey Miller President

Peg Hill Vice President

Jane Hampton

Jimmy Bice

Kevin Morris

A M essag e F rom SUPERINTENDENT RANDY FULLER “Prepared for the Journey” is the core message of the Shelby County School District. We are a community of stakeholders working together to ensure our students have the resources and support necessary to make a successful transition into each new stage of their journey.

Our district has enjoyed a rich tradition of excellence in education for many years. Through the efforts of our faculty, staff, and administrative leaders, along with the support of our parents, government officials, business leaders, and citizens, we have maintained a position as one of the most outstanding school systems in the state of Alabama.

Designed with the future in mind, Shelby County Schools give students the tools they need to succeed. From our state-of-the-art recreation and learning environments equipped with first-rate safety features to innovative curriculum like robotics, engineering, culinary arts, health sciences, and many other college and career ready courses we are dedicated to our mission – to make every student a graduate and every graduate prepared.

For the success of our students and our stakeholders, Shelby County Schools is “Prepared for the Journey”.

Sincerely,

P repar ed for the Jou rney

P repar i ng S tudents f or EXCELLENCE

A

From the moment our students begin their educational journey with the Shelby County School District, a world of excellence awaits. We take great pride in being among the 16 school districts to receive an “A” rating assigned by AL.com based on recent accountability data released by the Alabama State Department of Education. Shelby County Schools was the only county district, as well as the largest, included on the list of “A” school districts. It has taken the collective effort of everyone in our school district to reach this level of excellence. Every day, our district strives to live up to its motto “Prepared for the Journey” by focusing on the critical thinking skills and soft skills that help students achieve academic success and help prepare them for the next journey that awaits them.

P repar i ng S tudents f or the 21st CENTURY If you thought learning was just the three R’s, you haven’t seen the amazing projects our students are working on daily in engaging 21st Century classrooms. Students are learning automation and robotics, printing computer models with 3-D technology, and programming computer code at all grade levels hether it is music and art, usiness and finance, engineering or health sciences, we’re teaching students to dream bigger and be unafraid to go where their imagination leads them. Our partnerships with local businesses and industries are giving students the hands-on skills that will translate into exciting careers in the future.

P rep ari ng S tudents f or LEADERSHIP Shelby County Schools is committed to helping our students excel in all areas, from academics, athletics, performing arts, extra-curricular activities, and community service. We are preparing our students for all levels of leadership. We are teaching them the lifelong values of teamwork, selfdiscipline, intregrity and commitment ur focus on leadership development is e emplified across all grade levels with peer mentoring programs; school/community service projects; the Leader-inMe program; and student participation in clubs, organizations, and JROTC. Our annual High School Leadership Conference, which draws over 400 students, is not only an avenue for students to learn leadership, but to put it into practice. Organized by student leaders, the event encourages participants to take the knowledge learned and give back to their local schools and communities through a county-wide service project.

Graduation Rates Shelby County District - 95% Calera High - 97% Chelsea High- 93% Helena High - 97% Montevallo High - 97% Oak Mountain High - 97% Shelby County High - 92% Vincent High - 96% The Shelby County School District is preparing our students to not only graduate, but to be successful at the next level - regardless of whether they plan to attend college, join the military, or transition into a career.

The Shelby County District currently has a graduation rate of 95%, well above the state average of 89%. Shelby County’s graduating Class of 2016 from the seven high schools earned a collective amount of $27.5 million in college scholarships.

Shelby County’s Career and Technical Education programs are preparing both college and career-bound students for future careers through authentic learning experiences centered around 16 career clusters. These programs, which are provided in all middle schools, high schools, and at the College and Career Center, are technical, rigorous, relevant, and are aligned with Business/Industry Standards to help prepare students for the workforce of tomorrow.

We are dedicated to fulfulling our mission statement to make every student a graduate and every graduate prepared!

CHURCH DIRECTORY

VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY | 65

CHURCH DIRECTORY

www.cahababend.org 205-621-8060

3721 Hwy 52, Helena, AL 35080

66 | VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY

Staying healthy in Shelby County From private practices to state-of-the-art medical centers, Shelby County has it all Story by BAYLEIGH THOMPSON

M

uch like the rest of Shelby County, local medical centers provide quality care with a next-door-neighbor feel. Some of the top physicians and specialty care are right in local neighborhoods.

Within Shelby County’s 810 square miles are dozens of private practitioners and medical offices, including specializations in Optometry, Podiatry, Gynecology, Pediatric, Physical Therapy, Psychology and more.

SHELBY BAPTIST MEDICAL CENTER Shelby Baptist Medical Center, which is part of Brookwood Baptist Health Systems, is located in Alabaster and offers a unique set of capabilities to respond to the needs of Shelby County residents and beyond. Staffed with over 1,000 professionals and having a capacity of 252 beds, the acute care facility is ready to respond to the needs of any patient. State-of-the-art technology is readily VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY | 67

available with a 3 Tesla MRI, a robotic surgery program, and top-of-the-line cardiology suite.

The emergency department is highly utilized with more than 51,000 visits each year, and patients can check-in to the ER prior to arrival for timely responses to their needs. Services include cancer care, maternity, a sleep center, wound care, and rehabilitation services and more.

BROOKWOOD FREESTANDING EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT Also under the Brookwood Baptist Health System umbrella is the new 25,000-square-foot Freestanding Emergency Department located at the intersection of Alabama 119 and U.S. 280. Not to be mistaken for an urgent care facility, this facility is one of the first of its kind in Alabama. Equipped with hospital-level standards for emergency services, this location is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, always staffed with emergency and specialty physicians.

The site can handle walk-in heart attacks, strokes and trauma cases prior to transfer and receives 911/EMS cases.

It hosts a full set of diagnostic and lab services so patients can be treated without the lengthy wait times of a normal hospital site.

ST. VINCENT’S ONE NINETEEN Just a short drive northeast of U.S. 280

on Alabama 119 is St. Vincent’s One Nineteen, under the St. Vincent’s Health System. This location boasts medical services, an urgent care facility, fitness center, spa and wellness services. Medical care includes outpatient surgery, diagnostic imaging, physical therapy, executive health and physician specialties such as cardiology, dermatology, general surgery, gastroenterology and much more. The urgent care facility offers an online check-in, on-site diagnostics, and a lower overall cost than an emergency room visit.

St. Vincent’s One Nineteen fitness features a 50,000-square-foot facility with access to outdoor and indoor tracks, two pools and a whirlpool, exercise classes, other exercise trainers and weights, and a childcare program. The spa is equipped with resort level amenities, and the wellness services equip users to live a healthy life with plenty of education and assistance.

GRANDVIEW MEDICAL CENTER Grandview Medical Center, located on U.S. 280 on the border of Shelby and Jefferson counties, is a brand new comprehensive healthcare provider to residents in the Birmingham area. It holds 372 beds and has a specialty Level III trauma center, as well as a certified Chest Pain Center, recognized stroke center, and more. The Joint Commission has accredited Grandview nationally, and its bariatric weight loss surgery, cardiovascular medicine emergency medicine, sleep medicine, and cancer care have all been accredited as well. Beyond those services, the center also offers behavioral health, digestive health, heart care, maternity care, neurology, orthopedic, rehabilitation, wound care, women’s care and surgical services.

Get more for your money.

Purchase four movie tickets — or 52 weeks of Shelby County’s best local news coverage for $45.

To sign up today, email “MORE” to subscribe@shelbycountyreporter.com, or call 205.669.3131.

68 | VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY

2017

MEDICAL AND WELLNESS DIRECTORY YOUR GUIDE FOR: • DENTAL • EYE CARE • FAMILY MEDICINE • LICE REMOVAL • OPTICAL AND HEARING • ORTHODONTICS • PEDIATRIC DENTAL • PHARMACY • PHYSICAL THERAPY

VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY | 69

ho e re ith the largest on entration o edi al pro essionals outside o do nto n ir ingha la aster s ain treet edi al ile has it all

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HIGH QUALITY HEALTHCARE DOWN THE STREET 232-bed state-of-the-art hospital Blue Cross designation of Blue Distinction for Cardiac Care Society of Chest Pain Centers Accredited Chest Pain Center with PCI The grade of “A� on hospital safety score from the Leapfrog Group Proventix All-Americans for Hand Hygiene The Joint Commission Top Performer on Key Quality Measures

CONVENIENT CARE CLOSE TO HOME

Cardiology, Urology, Rheumatology, Gastroenterology, Obstetrics, Gynecology, Neurology, Orthopedics, Oncology, Hematology, Physical Therapy, Podiatry, Dentistry, General Medicine, Internal Medicine, Pulmonary Medicine, Allergy & Immunology, Sleep Disorders Dermatology, Plastic Surgery, Wound Care, Infectious Disease, Neonatology, Nephrology, Radiology, Anesthesiology

our onvenient estination or op ot h edi al are ainstreet edi al ile. o

72 | VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY

VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY | 73

With over 50 years of experience,

our Board Certified Physicians will make the difference in your

journey!

COOSA VALLEY MEDICAL CENTER OFFERS STATE OF THE ART CANCER CARE TO ITS COMMUNITY AND SURROUNDING AREAS

Coosa Valley Medical Center is celebrating expansion and growth as Coosa Valley Hematology and Oncology opens their new clinic and as CVMC partners with Hematology & Oncology Associates of Alabama. With the partnership, CVMC can create a better all-around cancer experience for their patients—where at Coosa Valley Hematology & Oncololgy, “The Experience Matters”.

Coosa Valley Hematology and Oncology has been operating in its newly renovated professional office building for the last two months. The old location, according to Dr. Allen L. Yeilding who has been caring for patients in Sylacauga for nearly 30 years, was too small to comfortably provide service to patients and families as he believed his office should. He said the new facility will allow his office to improve the quality and efficiency of service and care. He praised CVMC for the commitment and dedication it has shown to the office and its patients by undertaking the project of remodeling the facility.

The aspect of the office which needed the most improvement according to Yeilding was the treatment room. This is the room where patients receive chemotherapy

and all other treatments associated with cancer, including IV fluids and nausea medicines. Yeilding said there is a newly-found comfort in the treatment room.

“The increase in space and comfort better facilitates our daily management of patients leading to the best care that can be provided,” he stated.

The treatment room is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and every treatment chair is equipped with an Apple iPad. The devices enable patients to access literature which helps them to understand their disease and treatment options.

Patients participating in their care is important. Yeilding said patients normally have a better outcome when they are informed and engaged with the entire process of their care. “This is where they win or lose the battle against cancer, therefore everything needs to be state-of-the-art, and also needs to be service oriented to the patients and the family,” he said.

The number one priority for CVMC

is keeping patients near their homes.

Yeilding told his office administers the same cutting-edge treatments provided in any other large city. The ability to administer such treatments locally reduces the difficulty and stress put on those who would otherwise be forced to leave the area and make a 100 mile round trip to receive care.

“It makes zero sense for someone to travel for their cancer care—period.”

Yeilding continued. “The quality of care in CVMC, I think, is equal to any hospital.”

“If you have cancer and you’re taking chemotherapy, and you’re being forced to travel, that combined wear and tear takes a toll on people,” said Yeilding.

“From the moment my patients walk in the door, I want them to know, “Yeilding said, “you’re not here for us, we’re here for you.”

Coosa Valley Hematology and Oncology has four physicians, seven nurses, and five business personnel on staff. The organization which provides physicians, Hematology and Oncology Associates of Alabama, provide similar care in Birmingham and Fultondale.

To schedule an appointment or for more information please call 256-4010417.

VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY | 75

76 | VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY

U.S. News & World Report

This icon is not the official U.S. News & World Report best hospitals emblem.

2016-17

BEST CHILDREN’S HOSPITALS

www.ChildrensAL.org

Children’s of Alabama is ... l l l l l l l l

The third largest pediatric hospital in the United States, licensed for 332 beds & 48 NICU bassinets One of the Top 20 employers in Alabama with more than 4,700 employees across the state The pediatric teaching hospital for the School of Medicine at UAB Home to the Pediatric & Congenital Heart Center of Alabama, where more than 450 cardiac surgeries are performed annually Site of the only pediatric kidney dialysis program in the state — one of the largest in the country Home to one of the largest burn units in the Southeast One of the largest pediatric rheumatology programs in the nation and the only one in Alabama Provides care for more than 90 percent of Alabama children with cancer and blood disorders

Russell Campus

1600 7th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35233

Benjamin Russell Hospital for Children Lowder Building and McWane Building McWane Building Children’s on Third Outpatient Center Children’s Park Place

1601 5th Avenue South 1600 7th Avenue South 1600 7th Avenue South 1208 3rd Avenue South 1600 5th Avenue South

Children’s South

205.638.9100

1940 Elmer J. Bissell Road, Birmingham, AL 35243 205.638.4800

Outpatient surgery services, Pediatric Imaging Center, laboratory services, specialty care clincis and After Hours care

Pediatric Practice Solutions Primary Care Locations Alabaster (Greenvale Pediatrics) Bessemer (Pediatrics West) Birmingham (Midtown Pediatrics) Brook Highland (Greenvale Pediatrics) Clay/Chalkville (Pediatrics East-Deerfoot)

Homewood (Mayfair Medical Group) Hoover (Greenvale Pediatrics) McAdory (Pediatrics West) Montgomery (Physicians to Children/ Central Alabama Children’s Specialists)

Mountain Brook (Over the Mountain Pediatrics) Pell City (Pell City Pediatrics) Trussville (Pediatrics East) Vestavia (Vestavia Pediatrics)

78 | VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY

World-Class Care.

Hometown Caring.

At Shelby Baptist Medical Center, we’re dedicated to one thing: you, living a healthy, happy life. For more than 55 years, we’ve been proud to serve our community with compassion, care, and an individualized approach to treatment for every patient we see. From primary care and general medical services to cardiology, orthopedics, and more, we provide expert treatment in a 252-bed acute care facility that’s just the right size to put you first. We’re your neighbors and your friends, and we’re united in service and devotion to you, the people of Shelby County.

Call 877-346-0714 to find a doctor.

BROOKWOODBAPTISTHEALTH.COM

1000 1st Street N, Alabaster, AL 35007

VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY | 79

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ACCOMMODATIONS

ALABASTER

72 guestrooms, $52-$82 per night. Extended stay.

CANDLEWOOD SUITES 1004 Balmoral Drive Alabaster, AL 35007 Ichotelsgroup.com/candlewood.

(205) 620-0188 88 guestrooms, $119 and up per night for stays shorter than 7 days, $70-$99 per night for stays longer than 7 days. Extended stay.

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS AND SUITES 1000 Balmoral Drive Alabaster, AL, 35007 Ihg.com (205) 624-6488 70 guestrooms, $99 and up per night.

SHELBY MOTOR LODGE

1560 1st St. N. Alabaster, AL 35007 Shelbymotorlodge.com (205) 663-1070 21 guestrooms, $45 per night.

HAMPTON INN & SUITES

6220 Farley Court Birmingham, AL 35242 Hamptoninn3.hilton.com (205) 981-0024 106 guestrooms, $89-$134 per night.

WINGATE BY WYNDHAM HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS BIRMINGHAM 156 Resource Center Parkway Birmingham, AL 35242 Hiexpress.com (205) 776-6370 96 guestrooms, $89-$99 per night.

800 Corporate Ridge Road Birmingham, AL 35242 Wingatehotels.com (205) 995-8586.

100 guestrooms, $745-125 per night.

HOMEWOOD SUITES

CALERA

215 Inverness Center Drive Birmingham, AL 35242 Homewoodsuites3.hilton.com.

(205) 995-9823 95 guestrooms, $129-$239 per night. Extended stay.

HYATT PLACE

BIRMINGHAM CANDLEWOOD SUITES 600 Corporate Ridge Drive Birmingham, AL 35242.

Ichotelsgroup.com/candlewood (205) 991-0272 97 guestrooms, $75.95$95.99 per night. Location has a membership with the local YMCA available for guests to use free of charge, which offers pool and fitness center.

DAYS INN 280

4627 U.S. 280 East Birmingham, AL 35242 Daysinn.com.

(205) 991-9977 102 guestrooms, $69.99-$79.99 per night.

EXTENDED STAY AMERICA

101 Cahaba Park Circle Birmingham, AL 35242 Extendedstayamerica.com (205) 408-0107

Birminham AL 35242 Extendedstayamerica.com (205) 408-0107 Rates as low as $52-$82 per night. Designed specifically for longer stays with large studios fettering fully equipped kitchens and plenty of workspace.

Includes wifi and fully equipped kitchen as well as on-premise coin-operated laundry facility.

4686 U.S. 280 East Birmingham, AL 35242 Birminghaminverness.place. hyatt.com (205) 995-9242 126 guestrooms, $90-$162 per night.

QUALITY INN & SUITES 707 Key Drive Birmingham, AL 35242 Choicehotels.com (205) 991-1055 63 guestrooms, $70-$108 per night.

RESIDENCE INN INVERNESS

AMERICA’S BEST VALUE INN

11960 Alabama 25 Calera, AL 35040 Americasbestvalueinn.com (205) 668-0222 32 guestrooms, $66-$79 per night.

DAYS INN

11691 Alabama 25 Calera, AL 35040 Daysinn.com 205) 668-0560 85 guestrooms, $65-$85 per night.

HAMPTON INN

93 Metro Drive Calera, AL 35040 Hamptoninn3.hilton.com (205) 668-6565 91 guestrooms, $123-$147 per night.

3 Greenhill Pkwy, Birmingham AL 35242 Marriott.com 205) 991-8686 128 guestrooms, $187-$163 per night.

MOTEL 6

STUDIO PLUS (INVERNESS)

QUALITY INN

101 Cahaba Park Circle

Qualityinn.com (205) 668-3641 65 guestrooms, $76-$102 per night.

CHELSEA YMCA HARGIS RETREAT

928 Hargis Drive Chelsea, AL 35403 Hargisretreat.com (205) 678-6512 The Hargis Retreat has seven lodges available that can accommodate groups that vary in size, from 14 people to 330 people. Retreat offers many outdoor activities, including canoeing, fishing, swimming, hiking and outdoor basketball and volleyball. Dining hall available.

COLUMBIANA ALABAMA 4-H CENTER

892 4-H Road Columbiana, AL 35051 Aces.edu/4hcenter (205) 669-4241 51 guestrooms, $80-$125 per night. Cottages and dorm rooms also available.

COLUMBIANA INN

306 E. College St. Columbiana, AL 35051 Columbianainn.com (205) 669-1450 6 guestrooms, $95-$110 per night.

HARPERSVILLE HARPERSVILLE MOTEL 4941 U.S. 280 Harpersville, AL 35078 (205) 672-7038

HOOVER

11691 Alabama 25 Calera, AL 35040 Motel6.com (205)668-0560 $49.99 per night.

HOMEWOOD SUITES

357 Shelby County 304 Calera, AL 35040

121 Riverchase Pkwy. E. Hoover, AL 35244 Homewoodsuites3.hilton.com (205) 637-2900 113 guestrooms, $105-$163 per night. Extended stay.

VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY | 81

ACCOMMODATIONS

INTOWN SUITES

1840 Southpark Drive Hoover, AL 35244 Intownsuites.com (205) 988-9444 121 guestrooms, $209.99 and up per week. Extended stay.

LAQUINTA INN & SUITES

120 Riverchase Pkwy. E. Hoover, AL 35244 Lq.com (205) 403-0096 133 guestrooms, $69-112 per night.

OAK MOUNTAIN LODGE AT INVERNESS/ GREYSTONE 5429 U.S. 280 E. Hoover, AL 35242 Oakmountainlodge.com (205) 991-0100 130 guestrooms, $50 per night. Extended stay, two-night minimum stay.

MONTEVALLO FOX AND PHEASANT BED AND BREAKFAST INN 540 Shelby St. Montevallo, AL 35115 Foxandpheasantinn.com (205) 665-3080 4 guestrooms, $120 per night.

INDEPENDENCE INN 123 Country Hills Road Montevallo, AL 3515 Independencebnb.com (205) 358-8866 4 guestrooms, $89-$109 per night.

MCKIBBON HOUSE BED AND BREAKFAST 611 E. Boundary St. Montevallo, AL 35115 Mckibbonhouse.com (205) 665-1275 4 guestrooms, $120 per night.

RAMSAY CONFERENCE CENTER AND LODGE 24 Vine Street Montevallo, AL, 35115 Montevallo.edu/ramsay (205) 665-6280 40-plus guestrooms, $50 per night.

UNIVERSITY INN EXTENDED STAY SUITES

620 Vine Street Montevallo AL 35115 Universityinn-suites.com (205) 476-8611 Room rate is $89.99 per night.

The only hotel located in downtown Montevallo. Free breakfast card to Huddle House.

Room amenities include 2 full baths, dining room, washer and dryer plus more.

PELHAM BEST WESTERN AT OAK MOUNTAIN 100 Bishop Circle Pelham, ALÂ 35124 Bestwestern.com (205) 982-1113 60 guestrooms, $82-128 per night.

Pelham, AL 35124 Marriott.com (205) 987-9879 93 guestrooms, $90-$153 per night.

HAMPTON INN & SUITES

232 Cahaba Valley Road Pelham, AL 35124 Hamptoninn3.hilton.com.

(205) 313-9500 85 guestrooms, $104-$163 per night.

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS 260 Cahaba Valley Road Pelham, AL 35124 Hiexpress.com (205) 987-8888 81 guestrooms, $98-$158 per night.

OAK MOUNTAIN LODGE AT RIVERCHASE/PELHAM

1902 U.S. 31 S. Riverchase, AL, 35244 Oakmountainlodge.com (205) 985-9117 130 guestrooms, $49.99 per night. Extended stay, two-night minimum stay.

BIRMINGHAM SOUTH OAK MOUNTAIN CAMPGROUND GOOD STATE PARK SAM PARK 200 Terrace Drive 222 Shelby County 33 Pelham, AL 35124 Birminghamsouthcampground. com 1(800) 772-8832 100 RV sites. $40 and up per night.

Internet access, free wifi, outdoor swimming pool.

COMFORT SUITES PELHAM

2235 Pelham Parkway Pelham, AL 35124 Comfortsuites.com (205) 982-1999 75 guestrooms, $76.49-118 per night.

FAIRFIELD INN AND SUITES PELHAM 230 Cahaba Valley Road 82 | VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY

Pelham, AL 35124 Alapark.com/Oakmountain (205) 620-2520 10 cabins, $87-$117 per night. One cabin is wheelchair accessible, and guests are provided access to the lake.

Other activities are available, such as golfing, boating, fishing, hiking and geocaching.

QUALITY INN

110 Cahaba Valley Pkwy.

Pelham, AL 35124 Qualityinn.com (205) 444-9200 62 guestrooms, $61-$86 per night. Free passes to nearby gym.

RAMADA

113 Cahaba Valley Park E. Pelham, AL 35124 Ramada.com (205) 987-0444 48 guestrooms, $72-$135 per night.

SLEEP INN

200 Southgate Drive Pelham, AL 35124 Sleepinn.com (205) 982-9800 80 guestrooms, $74-$104 per night.

TRAVELODGE

410 Oak Mountain Circle Pelham, AL 35124 Travelodge.com (205) 987-2233 64 guestrooms, $52-67 per night.

VALUE PLACE

101 Bishop Circle Pelham, AL 35124 Valueplace.com (205) 444-3008 122 guestrooms, $259.99$279.99 weekly. Extended stay.

VINCENT BLUE SPRING MANOR BED & BREAKFAST 2870 Shelby County 83 Vincent, AL 35178 Bluespringmanor.com (205) 672-9955 8 guestrooms, $105-$165 per night. Breakfast is included in the price of the room.

***Prices based on average rates for standard rooms. Prices may vary depending on season and day of week.

Wheelchair Accessible Internet Free Wifi Swimming pool Fitness Center Continental Breakfast

ANNUAL CALENDAR Buck Creek Festival

Alabaster CityFest

Liberty Day

SPRING AMERICAN VILLAGE FESTIVAL OF TULIPS

The American Village’s Festival of Tulips allows visitors to stroll through more than 70,000 blooming tulips with replicas of some of America’s most historic places as a backdrop.

As the only you-pick tulip field in the region, visitors can take home armfuls of beautiful blooms. The event is typically open through mid-April, depending on bloom time. Visit Americanvillage.org.

MT LAUREL SPRING FESTIVAL

The Mt Laurel Spring Festival offers everyone the opportunity to shop Mt Laurel’s largest-ever street fair, savor dishes from the best local food trucks, listen to live music on the Bryson Square Stage and enjoy a day strolling the idyllic streets of one of Birmingham’s best neighborhoods. Visit Mtlaurel. com.

BUCK CREEK FESTIVAL

The Buck Creek Festival is a free, family-friendly community event featuring crafts, children’s activities, food and live music.

The annual festival has raised more than $253,000 for various projects in the Helena

community. It is typically held in May at Amphitheater Park in Helena. Visit Buckcreekfestival. com.

PELHAM PALOOZA

The City of Pelham invites the public to join in a celebration of the city each May at the Pelham Civic Complex and Ice Arena. Outside events feature free bungee trampoline, Home Depot’s craft area, funnel cakes, fried Oreos and a few surprises. Inside features artisan vendors, food vendors, Ballet Folklóric Latinoamerica, Grebel Dance/Alabama Ballet, GMP Circus Performers, senior line dancers, Magic by Kevin, Blaze Entertainment and free ice skating. For more information, visit Pelhampalooza.live.

ALABASTER CITYFEST

live music and food. Open hours, ticket prices and more information is available at Oakmountainstatefair.com.

It’s typically held in May at Oak Mountain State Park, 100 Amphitheater Road, Pelham.

Visit Oakmountainstaetfair.com.

vendors and fireworks at Chelsea Fest and The Big Kaboom. The celebration, which features free fireworks and entertainment, is typically held a few days before the Fourth of July.

SUMMER

The Liberty Day Celebration is held the last Saturday of June in downtown Columbiana. Events will include arts, crafts, food, children’s carnival and activities, Classic Cars Cruise-In, museum tours, military displays, live music both Friday night and all day Saturday, Hall of Memories, Miss Shelby County signing autographs, walking tours, patriotic parade, fireworks display and more.

CELEBRATE AMERICA! Celebrate America! is the American Village’s summer program that features red, white and blue all-American fun as visitors step back in time and become part of the great American journey for independence and selfgovernment. The American Village is located in Montevallo.

Visit Americanvillage.org for more information.

LIBERTY DAY

FALL

Alabaster CityFest is a free family festival featuring a day of live outdoor concerts, kids’ activities and vendors offering arts and crafts, merchandise, food and fun. Parking, shuttles, admission to the music festival and entrance to the KidsFest area are free. It is typically held in June at Alabaster Municipal Park. Visit Alabastercityfest.com.

THE LIBERTY EXPERIENCE

JURIED ART SHOW

OAK MOUNTAIN SPRING STATE FAIR

CHELSEA FEST AND THE BIG KABOOM

SHELBY COUNTY FAIR

The annual Oak Mountain Spring State Fair features attractions, rides, games,

The Liberty Experience involves the drama of America’s founding. Guests to the American Village can visit the White House Oval Office and Colonial Chapel, protest the Stamp Act, join the Continental Army and take part in America’s revolutionary history.

Celebrate America’s Independence at food, music,

The exhibit for the Shelby County Arts Council’s annual Juried Art Show is typically held in September. A winner is announced and submitted pieces are exhibited at the show, which is held at the SCAC’s gallery in Columbiana.

Visit Shelbycountyartscouncil. com.

The annual Shelby County Fair features fun for the whole family. The midway provider

VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY | 83

ANNUAL CALENDAR is Kissel Entertainment.

Competitive exhibits for adults and children include Canned and Dried Foods, Fresh Produce, Baked Goods, Crafts, Sewing, Arts and Photography, Horticulture and Junior Livestock Shows.

Entertainment is provided by local school choirs, dance lines and other talent. The fair is held at the Shelby County Exhibition Center in Columbiana. Visit Alshelbycountyfair.com.

A TASTE OF SHELBY COUNTY

typically held in September. Visit Morgancreekwinery.com.

LIVING HISTORY DAY

Old Baker Farm holds its annual American Civil War and Living History Day in October. The event is only open to school groups grades 3 through 6.

Demonstrations include artillery firing, infantry manual of arms, learning and participating in some basic infantry marching drills, Calvary, signal corps and old fashion soap making. Visit Oldbakerfarm.com.

The Greater Shelby County Education Foundation and The Partnership of Shelby County host the Taste of Shelby County each fall, typically in September. Proceeds benefit the Greater Shelby County Education Foundation. Vendors from across Shelby County will offer a “taste” of their specialty dishes from their menus at the event. For more information, visit Shelbyedfoundation.org.

COTTON PICKIN’ CELEBRATION

GRAPE STOMP

HOOVER HAYRIDE AND FAMILY NIGHT

Morgan Creek Vineyard’s annual Grape Stomp is the biggest event of the year celebrating the harvest or “crush” as it’s known at wineries. Visitors get to stomp grapes with their feet in wooden barrels, take free tours, enjoy free wine tastings, plus enjoy food and other fun activities. The event is

Old Baker Farm holds its Cotton Pickin’ Celebration in late October. Exhibitors from all over the South will bring handmade Indian arts and crafts, baskets, brooms, goat’s milk soap and more. Come enjoy live music, an antique tractor show and parade and pedal tractors for the kids. Visit Oldbakerfarm. com.

The Hoover Hayride & Family Night is an annual familyfriendly event held in October.

The event features hayrides, candy giveaways, vendors, face painting and more. The event is typically held at Veterans Park on Valleydale Road in Hoover.

Visit Hooveral.org.

Taste of Shelby County

Grape Stomp 84 | VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY

MONSTER WALK

Celebrate Halloween safely with your kids in downtown Columbiana with a parade.

Trick-or-treat at local businesses.

Visit Cityofcolumbiana.com.

MONTEVALLO ARTWALK

The Montevallo Artwalk, typically held the last Saturday in October, features art, food, fun and activities for all ages.

During the Artwalk, our Main Street businesses fill their storefronts with a variety of artworks including, but not limited to: sculpture, paintings, photography and functional art.

Visit Montevalloartwalk.com.

WINTER STEVAN GREBEL’S THE NUTCRACKER

The Grebel Center of Dance’s annual performance of “The Nutcracker” draws nearly 1,000 people every year. The event is sponsored by the city and is held at Pelham High School.

Visit Grebeldance.com.

CHRISTMAS LUNCH AND TOUR

The American Village’s Christmas Lunch and Tour consists of a concert in the Chapel, lunch in the East Room at the White House with

entertainment by a patriot of the past. Visit Americanvillage. org.

COLUMBIANA TOUR OF HOMES

The Columbiana Tour of Homes will be held in December.

All proceeds are used for Beautification Board projects for the city of Columbiana.

CHRISTMAS TREE FARM

Old Baker Farm in Harpersville hosts a Choose and Cut Christmas Tree Farm seven days a week from 9 a.m. to dark from Thanksgiving until Christmas Eve. Visitors enjoy complimentary hot apple cider, candy canes and hayride through the Christmas trees before they pick out their tree.

Visit Oldbakerfarm.com

HAVE A HEART FOR THE ARTS

The sixth annual Have a Heart for the Arts luncheon benefiting the Shelby County Arts Council will be held Feb. 11 in Columbiana. The event will feature a fashion show with clothes from local boutiques.

For more information, visit Shelbycountyartscouncil.com.

COWBOY PARADE

This parade, which is usually held in mid-February, will feature non-motorized

Hoover Hayride and Family Night

ANNUAL CALENDAR College Night

Cowboy Day Parade

vehicles such as wagons, horses, mules, donkeys and more. It also includes cowboy demonstrations, herding, blacksmith, roping and various other activities. Free admission.

CATTLEMEN’S RODEO The Shelby County Cattlemen’s

Rodeo is held each February at the Shelby County Expo Center, 1 Argo Road, Columbiana, 35051. The rodeo has been held since 1989 and usually includes a live rodeo, chuck wagon races, bull riding, calf roping, team roping, steer wrestling and bareback riding.

Call 669-6921 or 669-7806 for more information.

COLLEGE NIGHT

The University of Montevallo’s homecoming culminates in College Night, an evening of musical shows written, produced and acted by

students. Homecoming is held in February. Make sure to pick a side – Purple or Gold – before you go. Visit Montevallo.edu.

ARBOR DAY

The city of Montevallo celebrates Arbor Day Feb. 25 at Orr Park.

VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY | 85

PHONE NUMBERS

GENERAL SHELBY COUNTY NUMBERS EMERGENCY

911

ANIMAL CONTROL 205-669-8766

BOARD OF EQUALIZATION 205-670-6900

BOARD OF REGISTRARS 205-669-3913

BUSINESS REVENUE

205-670-6520

CIRCUIT CLERK 205-669-3760

COMMISSION ACCOUNTING

205-670-6534

COMMUNITY CORRECTIONS

GARBAGE COLLECTION (UNINCORPORATED COUNTY) 205-432-0878

INFORMATION

205-669-8900

205-670-6550

COMMUNITY SERVICES

JUVENILE COURT SERVICES

205-670-6555

COUNTY ENGINEER

205-669-3880

COUNTY MANAGER

205-670-6500

205-669-3831

ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES

205-669-3737

FACILITIES GENERAL SERVICES

205-670-6461

HOOVER

LANDFILL OFFICE 205-669-4169

205-669-3710

669-3999

205-663-4542

205-665-1519

205-669-3990

DISTRICT ATTORNEY EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

GREATER SHELBY

205-988-5672

PERSONNEL

205-669-3750

LOCAL CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE

JUVENILE DETENTION

DEVELOPMENT SERVICES

205-620-6650

SHERIFF’S OFFICE

205-669-4181

205-670-6510

PROBATE COURT PROBATE JUDGE

205-669-3711

PROBATE RECORDING 205-669-3720

PROPERTY TAX COMMISSION 205-670-6900

SHELBY COUNTY ECONOMIC & INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY 205-620-6640

86 | VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY

MONTEVALLO SOUTH SHELBY

UTILITIES ALABAMA POWER COMPANY

1-800-245-2244

ALAGASCO

1-800-292-4008

AT&T

205-972-2983

CHARTER BUSINESS

888-692-8635

WATER SERVICES 205-670-6540

205-669-9075

EDUCATION

DRIVING EXAMS

ALABASTER BOARD OF EDUCATION

COLUMBIANA 205-669-2614

PELHAM

205-620-5891

LICENSE OFFICECOLUMBIANA 205-670-6838

LICENSE OFFICEINVERNESS 205-670-6TAG

LICENSE OFFICEPELHAM 205-620-6600

205-663-8400

HOOVER BOARD OF EDUCATION 205-439-1000

PELHAM BOARD OF EDUCATION 205-624-3700

SHELBY COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION

205-682-7000

UNIVERSITY OF MONTEVALLO 205-665-6000

PHONE NUMBERS

FOREST OAKS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

HOOVER AREA SCHOOLS

ALABASTER AREA SCHOOLS

HILLTOP MONTESSORI SCHOOL*

205-439-2000

CREEK VIEW ELEMENTARY

MT LAUREL ELEMENTARY

JEFFERSON STATE – SHELBY CAMPUS

205-983-5911

205-682-7220

205-437-9343

BERRY MIDDLE GREYSTONE ELEMENTARY

205-682-5210

RIVERCHASE ELEMENTARY

205-991-5963

OUR LADY OF THE VALLEY SCHOOL*

205-439-3200

205-682-7230

KINGWOOD CHRISTIAN SCHOOL*

COLUMBIANA/ SPAIN PARK HIGH SCHOOL SOUTH SHELBY AREA 205-439-1400 SCHOOLS MONTEVALLO AREA CORNERSTONE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL* SCHOOLS

MEADOW VIEW ELEMENTARY

205-685-4300

THOMPSON HIGH

205-685-6700

THOMPSON INTERMEDIATE

205-669-7777

COLLEGE AND CAREER CENTER

205-685-6200

205-682-6650

THOMPSON MIDDLE

COLUMBIANA MIDDLE

205-685-8100

THOMPSON SIXTH GRADE CENTER 205-685-9600

CALERA AREA SCHOOLS CALERA ELEMENTARY 205-682-6120

CALERA INTERMEDIATE

205-682-6500

CALERA MIDDLE

205-682-6140

CALERA HIGH

205-682-6100

CHELSEA/MT LAUREL AREA SCHOOLS CHELSEA HIGH

205-682-7200

CHELSEA MIDDLE

205-682-7210

CHELSEA PARK ELEMENTARY

205-682-6700

205-682-6610

ELVIN HILL ELEMENTARY

205-682-6620

SHELBY COUNTY HIGH 205-682-6600

SHELBY ELEMENTARY 205-682-6630

WILSONVILLE ELEMENTARY 205-682-6640

HELENA AREA SCHOOLS

205-439-3400

MONTEVALLO ELEMENTARY

205-682-3650

205-682-6420

MONTEVALLO HIGH 205-682-6400

205-682-5800

PELHAM HIGH 205-624-3701

RIVERCHASE MIDDLE PELHAM RIDGE ELEMENARY 205-624-3704

205-624-3703

205-682-6410

OAK MOUNTAIN/ INVERNESS AREA SCHOOLS

VINCENT/ HARPERSVILLE AREA SCHOOLS COOSA VALLEY ACADEMY*

BRIARWOOD CHRISTIAN SCHOOL*

205-672-7326

INDIAN SPRINGS SCHOOL*

205-682-7320

205-776-5800

205-988-3350

VINCENT ELEMENTARY VINCENT MIDDLE/ HIGH 205-682-7300

*Private School

205-682-5240

JOSEPH S. BRUNO MONTESSORI ACADEMY*

205-995-8709

HELENA MIDDLE

205-682-5230

205-682-5300

LINDA NOLEN LEARNING CENTER

PELHAM OAKS ELEMENTARY

MONTEVALLO MIDDLE

HELENA INTERMEDIATE 205-682-5520

PELHAM AREA SCHOOLS

205-624-3702

HELENA ELEMENTARY INVERNESS ELEMENTARY 205-682-5540 HELENA HIGH SCHOOL

205-682-5220

OAK MOUNTAIN MIDDLE

205-685-6100

205-663-3973

OAK MOUNTAIN INTERMEDIATE

OAK MOUNTAIN ELEMENTARY OAK MOUNTAIN HIGH 205-682-5200

VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY | 87

MAP OF SHELBY COUNTY

LAY OF THE LAND GET TO KNOW SHELBY COUNTY’S GEOGRAPHY

Hillhouse Lake

25

Dunavant 43

Vandiver 25

Be ar Cr ee kR

41

d

Wehapa Lake

Lake Purdy

57

55 45

119

oo

B

d kR ar Be

yR tV alle Du

nna

d le R

Indian Springs Village

Exit 247

Vincent

van

Caldwell Mill Rd

119 Jefferson State Community College

yda Va lle

31

d

Cah

Cr

ee

aba

Vall e

Vall e

yR

yda le

d

55

Hoover

17

25 280

d

lley R

a Va

Cahab

231 280

Chelsea

d aR len He

Charob Lake

He le Rd na

Lee St

25

Exit 242

69

52

k ree fC

Rd

St

ow Ye ll

Wilsonville in Ma

25

145

Saginaw 331

S

Alabaster

St

Chelsea Rd

Exit 238

270

in

Fourmile

ville

31

Fourmile Creek

Ma

lea

N 1st St

W

N

49

47

ms

Ave

d

in R

Kle

55

Boyden Lake

11

Sim

1st

d

tR

on

alm

9th St NW

17

Co

Us

51

76

95

13

280

32

Pelham

d

Main St

47 39

36

65

nR

rde

52

Bea

Helena

52

31

Harpersville

55

Oak Mountain State Park 11

261

Coosa River

Westover

119 aba Exit 246 Cah y Rd e Vall

231 25

kwy

r

Rd

280

kH ig

Sterrett hland P

61

34

Coosa River

Exit 234

Pea Ridge

10

Shelby County Airport

Rd Salem Selma Rd

n

Spri

Rd

Exit 231

reek

145 28

Kingdom

Shelby Springs

Rd

Montevallo

42

42

25

65

16

Exit 228

86

47

Coosa River

25

65 31

31 155

71

61 71

25 145

Wa x

ah

atc he

eC

88 | VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY

Legend

42

Shelby

42

8th Ave

Calera

dle Mid St

ille hv As University of Mid Montevallo dle St St in Ma

ax C

61

47

ek

Bulley Creek

Beesw

28

25

re gC

30

Rd

42

22 54

is

y Ferr

Mard

Columbiana

70

Shoal Creek

22

Wilton

lu Co

as s

N Main St

31

119

iana By p

270

26

87

mb

Cahaba River

Maylene

ree k

Interstate Highway U.S. Highway State Highway County Road Airport College/University Courthouse Hospital

28

0E

VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY | 89

90 | VISITORS GUIDE SHELBY COUNTY