Arlington Antebellum Home and Gardens

Arlington Antebellum Home and Gardens, 331 Cotton Ave. S.W. in Old Elyton, dates from the 1840s and is Birmingham's only remaining Greek Revival structure. The wonderfully preserved two-story house—with spacious porches and balconies in the front and back—was built by Judge William S. Mudd, one of the 10 founders of the city. It sits on a 6-acre estate with beautifully landscaped gardens and large magnolia trees. Brochures provide details of the house and describe structural changes that have been made to the property over the years.

The wide entry hall once served as a formal reception area for guests. The rest of the downstairs includes a sitting room, formal dining room and a parlor. Upstairs are four bedrooms. The rooms are furnished with 19th-century furniture, artwork and crafts. While the decor is not original to the house, it reveals how the wealthy lived in this era.

Guided tours are available. Time: Allow 30 minutes minimum.