One of Alabama’s smallest towns recently received recognition from Southern Living for its vintage aesthetic appeal and hospitality. The publication highlighted a beloved local dining option, a bakery, an antique store, and a recently renovated cottage from the 19th century than can be rented out over night.

“With a population of approximately 180 residents (and not a single streetlight downtown), Waverly, Alabama, isn’t a small town; it’s a tiny one,” Southern Living wrote. “But what this hamlet hidden between Auburn and Lake Martin lacks in size, it makes up for with massive amounts of throwback charm. While there’s not a lot to see and do, every bit of it is worth experiencing, so pick a pretty day and wander over to Waverly for a few hours of chatting with friendly folks, digging into good food, and scouring shelves for cool finds. “

The town’s official website also featured a description of Waverly, calling it a “cultural mecca.”

“A small community in the corner of Chambers, Lee, and Tallapoosa Counties in central east Alabama, Waverly has a population of less than 200. The town is within a 15-minute drive west to Lake Martin or southeast to the bustling college town of Auburn and neighboring Opelika. Because of that, it’s a cultural mecca without the bright lights of town yet still feels very close. Lifelong residents live alongside former professors, artists, and entrepreneurs drawn to the spirit of curiosity that universities encourage. It’s a good mix of people focused on progress alongside preservation.”

Founded around 1835 with little growth until the 1870’s, the community of Waverly first appeared on maps of Alabama in 1853. The town was referred to by many as Pea Ridge up until the 1870’s.