Among Alabama’s newer cities, Chelsea is also one of the fastest-growing in the state.

The lush countryside in the area has seen significant development since Chelsea’s incorporation in 1996. Since then, the city has seen an influx of residents and businesses while retaining its small-town feel.

The city’s five schools are part of the Shelby County school system, and more than a dozen churches representing a variety of denominations are located in the area.

Chelsea Park features a playground, a pavilion and sports fields where youth leagues play baseball, softball, football, lacrosse, and tennis. Median income and home values are high, while unemployment and crime remain low.

Chelsea is convenient to downtown Birmingham and attractions in the metro area and also near enough for a day trip to Logan Martin Lake or Lake Martin. The Summit, a popular shopping center that attracts people from across the region, is just a short drive down Highway 280.

For a day of fun closer to home, Treetop Family Adventure has something for the whole family: go-karts, an obstacle course, laser tag, miniature golf, an arcade and more.

Snider’s Discount Pharmacy is the definition of a hometown business where employees know your name and ask about your family. Chelsea Coffee House, another locally owned business that offers coffee, smoothies, and sandwiches, keeps special hours to accommodate high school football fans in the fall.