Limestone County is a captivating destination that combines history, natural beauty, and small-town charm. This county is known for its rich heritage and beautiful landscapes. It covers the cities of Athens, Ardmore, Elkmont, Mooresville, Lester, and Bella Mina. Founded in 1818, Limestone County played an integral role in the early growth of Alabama and is named after the abundant limestone deposits in the area. This shaped the landscape and heavily contributed to the county’s economic development. Today, Limestone County offers a delightful blend of historical landmarks, recreational activities, and vibrant communities.
Limestone County holds many breathtaking nature spots that cater to all ages. One of the prime locations is Joe Wheeler State Park in Rogersville, Alabama. This park offers many recreational activities such as boating, fishing, hiking, and camping. It even features Elk River, perfect for canoeing and kayaking. Wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge, a haven for migratory birds and other native wildlife species. Limestone County is also known for its generational farms. Isom’s Orchardis located in Athens and is a fourth-generation farm. In the summertime, there’s a selection of fruits, vegetables, and fresh flowers. While in the fall and early winter, there are many varieties of apples, turnips, collard greens, and several winter vegetables. They even offer an amazing apple cider by the glass! More than the tasteful fruits and veggies, the opportunity to pick your own fruit creates a fun and interactive experience for all ages. While this is a wonderful spot for visitors, it is even more valuable to Limestone County’s residents where local produce is made available several months out of the year.
Athens, being the largest city in Limestone County, has a bustling downtown square and a local university. The downtown has family-owned shops and antique stores selling anything from homemade crafts to unique gifts.Athens State University is a public university offering diverse educational and sports programs for its students. Although Athens aims to preserve its downtown's historical character, in November of 2022, they opened the doors of the “famous” Texas-based companyBuc-ee's, which is located off I-65. Limestone County truly has something for everyone and is a great place to make home happen for those seeking a blend of history, education, natural beauty, and small-town charm.
written by Brooke Frazier and Natalie Edwards
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