A star-struck community in Montgomery
Just over 15 miles north of Montgomery, Alabama, Wetumpka sprawls along the Coosa River's verdant shores with a history tied to the stars. Millions of years ago, a cosmic object struck the earth, forming a crater that eroded into the unique crescent hills on the city's east side. This was only the beginning of Wetumpka's history. The land holds remnants of the French and Indian War as well as memories of the Creek War of the War of 1812. Today, community pride, local businesses and access to the outdoors characterize Wetumpka. It's the county seat of Elmore County and is home to a quaint, historic downtown. Surrounded by dense forests and farmland with the river as its beating heart, Wetumpka's ample natural beauty pairs well with its small-town charm. It's a unique city that many are happy to call home.
Blending suburbia and country living
The average year that homes in Wetumpka were built is 1986, so midcentury and contemporary aesthetics blend on each leafy street. New Traditional architecture is one of the area's more dominant styles. These homes typically feature driveways and two-car garages. Overall list prices range from $76,000 to $424,000. The average home value of $182,433 is more than enough to afford a three-bedroom, two-bathroom house. Lot sizes range from less than a quarter of an acre to well over 2 acres, so homebuyers interested in gridded small-town suburbs or quiet, country living along winding backroads will indeed have their pick in this rustic city.
Shopping, dinner and a show in Wetumpka
Wetumpka's historic downtown is bursting with local businesses and community staples. The town's old train depot was converted into Wetumpka Depot Players, a community theater that puts on various shows year-round. As for local flavor, there are plenty of hometown restaurants and delectable eateries. Copper House Deli is a tried-and-true choice for good old-fashioned sandwiches. Must Stop Café is another popular spot with friendly service, a warm atmosphere and a rotating menu of diner classics. The usual stores, like Lowe's, Walmart and Aldi, can be found along Old US Highway 231, a main thoroughfare and commercial corridor.
Athletics at Wetumpka High
The Elmore County School District serves Wetumpka, and Niche has each public school in the city rated with a B-plus. Students can start school at Wetumpka Elementary before attending Wetumpka Middle and graduating from Wetumpka High, which is ranked as the No. 1 best public high school in the county by Niche. This high school has an array of athletic offerings students can enrich their school days with, including varsity sports, such as football, cheer, basketball, baseball, volleyball and wrestling. There's also a fishing team for any young anglers to join.
Gold Star Park and more
There is no shortage of green space in and around Wetumpka. Gold Star Park is a riverside hub where folks can launch boats, kayaks and canoes onto the water. It has fishing spots, tree-shaded walkways and scenic views. Valley Brook Park is another riverside spot with plenty of play structures that kids can wear themselves out on. The City of Wetumpka Sports Complex is a recreational mecca with everything from batting cages and ballfields to catch-and-release ponds and an archery range. Just south of the complex are wooded and riverside walking trails.
Old US Highway 231
Wetumpka is car-dependent and does not have regular public transportation. That said, commuting isn't tricky with Old US Highway 231 running right through the city; folks can easily hop on that, and it's a straight shot to Montgomery.
