11/11/2025
MONTGOMERY AL AREA SAMPLER
Piece 3: “Big Fish” Movie Set/Clanton Peaches
(Photo) View of “Big Fish” movie set in Millbrook
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Just north of Montgomery AL are remains of the “Big Fish” movie set, located just off Cypress Lane in Millbrook AL. For those unfamiliar with the 2003 film, it is a fantasy comedy-drama directed by Tim Burton. It stars Albert Finney as Edward Bloom, a man who enjoys reshaping his personal history with entertaining tall tales. Ewan McGregor co-stars as the younger version of Edward.
Central to the story is the fictional town of Spectre, which was created by the film crew on Jackson Lake Island. The remnants of the Spectre set have been preserved by the island’s private owner, and tourists are welcome to visit and explore for a modest fee.
We found the overall property on Jackson Lake Island very well maintained, with picnic spots and clean modern restrooms. There is a herd of goats that resides on the island; fairly tame, but with a definite appetite for any snacks you may have handy. Touring the Spectre set ruins and Jackson Lake Island is a unique and interesting experience.
Located about a half hour drive north along Interstate 65 from Jackson Lake Island is Clanton AL, the seat of “peach-growing” Chilton County. Clanton features one of the more popular tourist stops in the state of Alabama, Peach Park (conveniently situated right off exit #205).
Peach Park is a family-owned business that was established in the mid-1980’s as a roadside fruit stand. The operation has expanded over the years to include a bakery, ice cream parlor, restaurant, and gift shop. We really enjoy Peach Park’s peach milk shakes (made with homemade peach ice cream) and typically get some of the mini peach pound cakes for the road. The bakery also offers some really delicious fried peach pies; enjoyed best with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Of course, you can also buy freshly picked peaches by the basket in the market section of the complex, along with other locally grown produce.
On the other side of the viaduct (opposite Peach Park) is another good pit stop for travelers, Durbin Farms Market, which has been in operation since the early 1960’s. More fresh produce, ice cream, and southern cooking.
One last touristy destination in Clanton is the “Big Peach” water tower, located about 10 minutes north of Peach Park, a little further along Interstate 65. One of the best examples of functional public art in the Southeast, the “Big Peach” is just off to the left after taking exit #212. A great souvenir photo opportunity!
