Planning your summer travels? Remember to add Wetumpka, Alabama, to the list and witness the must-see revitalization movement from Home Town Takeover! Located just a few miles north of Montgomery, this once-bustling community was known for its flourishing industries and hometown pride. Like many areas, industrial shifts changed the pace of Wetumpka over the last 50 years; however, in 2019, when a tornado struck, leaving a path of destruction (also leveling the local church), its residents rallied to bring it back like never before. With the community already supercharged to inspire action, Home Town Takeover stepped in to build on the momentum, and activate a ripple effect for lasting change in the community.

The tireless efforts made by Erin and Ben Napier with the support of HGTV and Discovery+ make this small town the perfect destination for families, nature-lovers and road-trippers. So, whether you’re traveling to the area specifically to see the as-seen-on-TV sites, or looking for a perfect day trip from Atlanta, Mobile, Alabama, or Tallahassee, Florida, set your maps destination to Wetumpka and see how your day unfolds.

See the Wetumpka Mural

Adrienne Duvall, a local art teacher, worked with her students to paint this colorful mural on Orline Street in Wetumpka. This landmark can be seen from many vantage points throughout the community. Stop by to see their work and take a selfie!

Visit Jerry’s Barber Shop

Whether or not you need a haircut, stop by Mayor Jerry Willis’ barbershop to see how it was restored inside and out. This place is an absolute time capsule, and we know you’ll appreciate the original architectural features including the newly exposed window beautifully framing the front door. If you get close, kneel down at the entryway to see a historic bullet hole in the front door, a symbolic remnant from a shootout early in the 20th century.

Inside, Jerry’s collections of barbershop tools and mementos tell a rich tale of hometown pride and success. Give Jerry a shout-out if you see him – he led his community through the hardest of times and couldn’t be happier to be part of a movement that inspires lasting change in Wetumpka.

Visit The Tapp 18

Located at 227 Hill St. in Wetumpka, this perfectly curated women’s clothing and accessory boutique was featured on the very first episode of Home Town Takeover! Stop in to say hello to storeowner Tabatha, browse the racks, and if you take a selfie, don’t forget to post it with hashtag #tappintofashion to show your support!

PSST: Even if you’re not able to visit in person, you can also shop online at ShopTheTapp18.com!

See the Wetumpka Farmer’s Market

The Home Town Takeover team totally revitalized the Wetumpka Farmer’s Market, turning into a true, permanent destination and landmark in town. Located at 304 East Coosa St., come check out the fresh flowers, produce, and handmade goods from local farmers and merchants. Picnic beside the Coosa River at the colorful picnic tables, play games with your family, and enjoy pop-up events that support the arts and local schools. The City of Wetumpka posts about a lot of its upcoming events on Facebook.

Photograph the ‘Blooming on the Coosa’ Mural

The Napiers added a second mural in Wetumpka, and you’ll be able to see it easily across the river from the Farmer’s Market. Painted on the side of Coaches Corner, it reads ‘Blooming on the Coosa’ and we think you’ll appreciate how much charisma to adds to this small-town landscape.

Try the New Burger at Coaches Corner

Not only is Coaches Corner the only restaurant with a spectacular all-season patio and view of the Coosa River, but the menu will satisfy the whole family, too!

We can’t say no to the wings, catfish, boiled shrimp or the Saturday night Margarita specials, but when you're ordering, take special notice of the new burger that Food Network star Eddie Jackson added to the menu. It includes homemade Alabama white sauce and fried green tomatoes. Stop by for lunch or dinner to experience it for yourself!

Fan Out at the Big Fish House

Tim Burton’s 2003 movie Big Fish was filmed right in Wetumpka, and there’s no hiding the landmark as you drive through town! The big, white house towers over the city, restored to a thing of beauty with the help of the Napiers and Executive Director of the Chamber of Commerce president, artist, and homeowner, Shellie Whitfield.

Buying a home with a rich history isn’t for the faint of heart, but Shellie, her husband, Wade, and their sons have made every effort to help this landmark to shine. Don’t be afraid to snap a selfie in front of it – Shellie and Wade might even be seen waving from the restored front porch!

Support the Shops on Company Street

The Napiers went all out enhancing curb appeal on Company Street in the Main Street Wetumpka District, so we hope you enjoy it when you pass through! With plenty of options for dining and drinks, and boutiques to appeal to all shoppers, the revitalization efforts not only make it a beautiful area to explore, but a community to which businesses can flock and grow, too. You can get a list of area merchants at MainStreetWetumpka.org to make it easier to plan your visit.

Visit the Jeannette Barrett Civic Room

Named for Wetumpka’s first female mayor, the Civic Room is revitalized and enhanced to better suit the community. With a freshly painted exterior and refreshed interior, this once-dated venue is back on the map, so stop by to see it for yourself!

Even better – if you’re located in the area and looking to plan an event such as a meeting, school event, a bridal or baby shower, or wedding, the Civic Room might the perfect venue for you. The space holds 50 people, and it sure would be fun to host your next event here!

Support Gracie’s Sweet Things

The owner of Gracie’s Sweet Things participates in a small business program that gives owners the opportunity to expand their business. As part of the revitalization efforts, Erin and Ben had the exterior of her shipping container painted bold, bright colors, and facilitated donations from the community to build a welcoming, comfortable outdoor dining area. Showing support for small businesses like this one gives them the opportunity to flourish in Wetumpka.

Enjoy the View of Coosa River at Sunset

Wetumpka’s full of gorgeous little vistas, trails, parks and recreational sites, so enjoy Mother Nature as much as you enjoy the shops on Company Street. The sunset is something you won’t want to miss. Get more information on recreation areas and walking paths on the City of Wetumpka website.

Looking to Relocate?

And if you’re considering a permanent move to Elmore County, you’ll also enjoy seeing the residences throughout Wetumpka. The Home Town Takeover crew renovated residences in the community and inspired change throughout the neighborhoods by offering fresh paint and landscaping to enhance curb appeal. The ripple effect of these efforts is undeniable, and if you talk to any homeowners, they’ll be sure to tell you why it’s the perfect time to live in Wetumpka.