City of Talladega Blog

The Talladega Visitors Center façade signage was recently hung, signaling growth and progress for the entire community.  While the attractive signage will help draw visitors to the center, which is located beside Hall of Heroes Museum on Court Square South, the rich array of expertly curated displays inside will promote our entire region.

Talladega Tourism Commission members Jimmy Williams, Lauren Deal and Chuck Keith, who have worked tirelessly since September 2023 to have the building renovated, recently took City Manager Derrick Swanson on a tour of the facility.

With TV screens displaying images of the county’s top 15 attractions, including Talladega Superspeedway, Davey Allison Memorial Park, TOP Trails OHV Park and CMP Marksmanship Park, and sleek panels highlighting dozens of impressive local and regional tourist sites, the display is as comprehensive as it is elegant.

“I have toured visitor centers throughout the state, and I believe ours is the best,” said Williams, who adds that great planning and thought went into every aspect of the building design — including the attractive gray coloring; the informative displays highlighting local and regional tourist attractions; the TV screens promoting major attractions; and the state-of-art façade signage that is designed to glisten subtly in the sunlight yet complement other signage in the district.

“Residents will not be taxed for the center, which is funded by a lodging tax passed by city council as well as donations and grants,” said Williams. “We received over $100,000 in grants, primarily through the Alabama Historic Preservation Commission. In addition to sharing information about attractions in our region, we provide history lessons and QR codes for the sites we highlight.”

The project received support from the Alabama Historic Preservation Commission, Alabama Power, Talladega County Commissioner Tony Haynes, Representative Steve Hurst, Senator Lance Bell, the Education Trust Fund Grant and others.    

“I commend the Tourism Commission for its commitment to establishing a visitors center that showcases the sites and experiences that make Talladega County a premier travel destination,” said Swanson. “The outpouring of support for this endeavor is evidence that Alabama Power and other partners are confident in the tremendous impact the center will have on our region.”

The Talladega Visitors Center will stimulate economic growth, create job opportunities and elevate the quality of life throughout our region by showcasing the unique experiences that make Talladega a premier destination for visitors.

Plans for an early spring opening reception are underway.