Gem of the Hills - Jacksonville, Alabama

In 1834, the town built on land, once Creek Territory, was named Jacksonville for Andrew Jackson.

Also in 1834, Jacksonville began its storied history in education when the town reserved a one-acre square for a schoolhouse. Over the years, the school developed from the Jacksonville Academy into Jacksonville State Teachers College. Today, known as Jacksonville State University, it is one of Alabama's most prestigious institutes of higher education.

Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachians, historic Jacksonville truly lives up to its nickname - the Gem of the Hills with its picturesque neighborhoods, the charm of its public square, it beckons to many. Come for a visit, and prepare to make yourself at home! For more information, visit www.jacksonville-al.org.

The Chief Ladiga Trail

Weaver/Jacksonville/Piedmont

Because of their close proximity, the cities of Jacksonville, Piedmont, & Weaver share a location along the Chief Ladiga Trail. It is the state's first extended rails-to-trails project and has provided locals with an excellent family-friendly recreational venue, complete with areas for hiking, mountain biking, and more. The Chief Ladiga Trail currently runs 32.5 miles from the Alabama/Georgia line into the City of Weaver. The City of Anniston recently acquired more land for the trails extension into downtown Anniston. As Alabama’s first Rails to Trails project, this paved recreational trail follows the former Seaboard/CSX Railroad and connects to Georgia’s 63 mile Silver Comet Trail, making Ladiga part of the longest paved rail trail in the U.S. This recreational opportunity can be enjoyed by walkers, bikers, skaters, strollers and more. Beautiful sights like area forests, farmlands, streams and mountains provide picturesque scenery for each and every visit. For more information, visit www.chiefladigatrail.com.

 

Jacksonville State University

700 Pelham Rd North, Jacksonville, 256-782-5781

With a variety of drama and musical productions, art exhibits, special lecture series and speakers and various sporting events offered throughout the year, Jacksonville State University, the “Gem of the Hills,” is a wonderful source of cultural opportunities for the area. Their continuing education department also offers a variety of courses for personal advancement. For more information, visit www.jsu.edu.

Choccolocco Mountain Off-Road Vehicle Park

1312 Louise Dr SE, Jacksonville, 256-365-0297

This Off-Road Vehicle Park welcomes every type of off-road vehicle, including ATV’s, Side-by-sides, dirt bikes, four wheel drives, rail buggies, and rock crawlers. This 450 acres of forest covered mountains has a vast trail system, with moderate to extreme trails for more advanced vehicles. For more information, visit www. choccoloccomountain.com.

Stoney Brook Golf Course

1505 Country Club Dr SW, Jacksonville, 256-435-3114

This 18 hole par 72 course features 6,296 yards of golf from the long tees, with a slope rating of 115. For more information, visit www.golfstoneybrookgc.com.