The City of Fort Payne was originally known as Will's Town, named after the Cherokee Chief "Red-Haired" Will Weber in 1780. Captain Payne took control of the fort after the Cherokees were rounded up and held in the stockades at Fort Payne in 1838. This became the famous Trail of Tears. The town name officially changed to Fort Payne in 1869.
Little River Canyon National Preserve near Fort Payne offers recreational opportunities that include kayaking, rock climbing, bird watching, mountain biking, hiking and swimming.
Fort Payne is the headquarters for the Alabama Fan Club & Museum. A short film about the band as well as awards and personal items from each member are on display.
Address: Alabama Headquarters, 101 Glenn Boulevard, Fort Payne, AL 35967, United States
Phone: 1 (256) 845-1646, Fax: 1 (256) 845-5650
Hours:
May 26 to September 6: 9am-6pm; Sun:1pm-6pm
September 7 to May 25: 8am-5pm; Sun:12pm-5pm; Closed: Mon, Tue
DeSoto State Park in Fort Payne, along Little River Canyon, offers hiking trails and boardwalk trails that can be enjoyed in all seasons and a picnic area that offers open and sheltered spots. The Olympic-size swimming pool is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Other recreational opportunities include fishing, tennis, a nature center, camping and cabins.
Address: DeSoto State Park, 13883 County Road 89, Fort Payne, AL 35967, United States
Phone: 1 (256) 845-5380, Fax: 1 (256) 845-8286
Built in 1891, this train depot is an example of Richardsonian Romanesque architecture. In addition to railroad memorabilia there are American Indian artifacts, 19th C farm and office equipment, and photographs on display.
There are also 90 dioramas depicting nursery rhymes and historical events of the area.
Little River Canyon National Preserve has many natural and cultural resources such as sightseeing from various overlooks located along the Canyon Rim Parkway. Picnicking, hiking, white water rafting, canoeing, mountain bike riding, horse back riding and rock climbing are popular activities. Bird watching is especially good at Beaver Pond Trail where birds can be viewed in their native environment.
Address: Little River Canyon National Preserve, 2141 Gault Avenue North, Fort Payne, AL 35967, United States
Phone: 1 (256) 845-9605, Fax: 1 (256) 997-9129
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DeSoto State Park, Fort Payne
DeSoto State Park, Fort Payne
DeSoto State Park, Fort Payne
