Dothan, with parts of its boundaries located in Dale and Henry counties, is the principal city of Houston county in Alabama. Its relative isolation from other Alabama cities means that Dothan has unique cultural characteristics. It has been dubbed the ‘hub of the wiregrass’ which is a region encompassing parts of Alabama, Georgia and the Florida panhandle.
Dothan’s landmass has been largely utilized for the production of peanuts, which has contributed greatly to the area’s economic development. The national peanut festival is held each November, with various peanut-related competitions, live music and one of the largest parades held in the south.
There is an unending range of attractions in Dothan offering visitors insight into the art, culture and history of the ‘hub of the wiregrass’. Among these institutions are the Dothan Opera House and the Wiregrass Museum of Art. Theme parks, natural parks and various sporting grounds can be found throughout the city, while the world’s ‘smallest city block’ is an interesting photo op.
Highlights
Adventureland theme park: an excellent theme park with attractions to suit children of all ages and their fun-loving parents. It includes a go-cart track, batting cages, a roller coaster and a large arcade.
US Army Aviation Museum: this fascinating institution houses the largest collection of helicopters in the world and displays outlining over 50 years of US Army aviation history.
Dothan Botanical Gardens: features the plants indigenous to the Dothan region, an interesting garden and a beautiful Victorian gazebo.
Highland Oaks Golf Course: of international standard and among the best in America, this course will challenge even the most proficient of golfers.
Landmark Park Agricultural Museum: this park features a functioning 1900s farmstead, complete with animals and outhouses. It is also a picturesque area perfect for a picnic and an afternoon of relaxation.
Wiregrass Museum of Art: features five galleries, a children’s exhibit and a gallery gift shop.