Rickwood Caverns State Park

When the heat of an Alabama summer has you steaming, you can head to the lake like everyone else, or you can head underground at Rickwood Caverns State Park. Travel 175 feet below the earth’s surface and tour these sprawling caves, where you’ll find the climate a comfortable 60 degrees year round. Even if you’re claustrophobic, you can still keep your cool, as the Olympic sized swimming pool is fed by the chilly waters from the cave. Rock hounds will dig the Fossil Mountain Hiking Trail, and the youngins will love mining for gemstones outside the gift shop. Try something different this year, and embark on a cavernous journey that will take you down.