Virginia Golfer Jul / Aug 2017 | Page 35

CIVIL RIGHTS MEMORIAL CENTER, MONTGOMERY In the 1950s and 1960s, some of the biggest changes in civil rights could be traced to Montgomery, be it the well- known bus boycott or voting rights march that began in Selma and ended a brief walk from the Memorial. vsga.org ALABAMA’S MUST EATS LOCAL JOE’S TRADING POST, RAINBOW CITY Dreamland frequently gets so many of the headlines, as the rib joint now has 10 permanent structures around the state, a handful of floating food trucks and a shipping service to boot. But Local Joe’s Trading Post (localjoestradingpost.com) in Rainbow City, just a few miles from Gadsden’s Silver Lakes Course, is a highly regarded throwback in style and taste. SAW’S SOUL KITCHEN, BIRMINGHAM Earlier this year, Saw’s (sawsbbq.com) was named one of the New York Times’ top spots to visit in 2017. Three Magic City locations stay busy throughout the year, serving up pulled pork, chicken, ribs and a full complement of sides. But make sure to take advantage of the six-day window. None of their locations are open on Sundays. CHAMPY’S CHICKEN, MUSCLE SHOALS Actually a small chain with five locations in three states, Champy’s isn’t known for the salads it carries on its menu. This is Southern-fried goodness in all its glory, from battered green tomatoes and the smoked sausage, cheese and pickle plates to the Mississippi Delta catfish plate and chicken on a stick. CHAMPY’S known as a place for Auburn fans to celebrate football wins, ties the city and college together in seamless fashion. GETTING THERE From Richmond to Birmingham, the center point of not only the Trail but the state in general, those looking to travel by car are looking at 10 hours. If there is a reprieve in that, it is in the fact that major highways will carry you the entire way. For the flyers, the Birmingham-Shuttlesworth Airport is also the way to go. The farthest course from Birmingham, Fairhope’s Lakewood Golf Club, is inside of four hours away, with that route taking you by five other RTJ Trail courses. J U LY / A U G U ST 2 0 17 | V I R G I N I A G O L F E R 33