historic places to visit in montgomery

THE 10 BEST Montgomery Sights & Historical Landmarks

Montgomery landmarks.

• Historic Sites
• Monuments & Statues
• Points of Interest & Landmarks
• Historic Walking Areas
• Sacred & Religious Sites
• Arenas & Stadiums
• Government Buildings
• Churches & Cathedrals
• Educational sites
• Neighborhoods
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Adventurous
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. National Memorial for Peace and Justice

2. Dexter Parsonage Museum - Dr. Martin Luther King home

Recommended Sightseeing Experiences (11)

3. First White House of the Confederacy

4. Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church

5. Civil Rights Memorial Center

6. Alabama State Capitol

7. Hank Williams Memorial - Oakwood Annex Cemetery

8. The F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum

9. Riverwalk Stadium

10. Civil Rights Memorial

11. Old Alabama Town

12. Rosa Parks Arrest Site

13. Court Square Fountain

14. Court Square

15. Greenwood Cemetery

16. Huntingdon College

17. Confederate Monument

18. Hank Williams Statue

19. Governor's Mansion

20. St. John's Episcopal Church

21. River City Church

22. Garrett Coliseum

23. Cottage Hill Historic District

24. ridgecrest church, 25. mothers of gynecology sculpture, what travelers are saying.

• National Memorial for Peace and Justice
• Dexter Parsonage Museum - Dr. Martin Luther King home
• Civil Rights Memorial Center
• Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church
• First White House of the Confederacy
• Alabama State Capitol
• Civil Rights Memorial
• Hank Williams Memorial - Oakwood Annex Cemetery
• The F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum

15 Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Montgomery, AL

Written by Lura Seavey and Lana Law Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Montgomery, capital of Alabama, lies in the center of the state on the east bank of the Alabama River. There are a wide range of things to see, including family attractions like the Montgomery Zoo and the unique cow-themed MOOseum. Montgomery's history is one of its most remarkable features, however, and should not be missed whether you are looking for things to do this weekend or planning a vacation itinerary in Montgomery.

Considered by many as the birthplace of the Civil Rights Movement, Montgomery's historic attractions can be found throughout the city. From 1954 through 1960, a young Martin Luther King, Jr. served as pastor for a Baptist Church on Dexter Avenue, a building which became the gathering place for early civil rights activists.

In 1955, Rosa Parks started a nationwide movement when she sat in the whites-only section of a segregated Montgomery public bus, and in 1961, the Freedom Riders made history at the city's Greyhound bus station. In addition to having several landmarks on the Civil Rights Trail,

Montgomery is home to multiple memorials and museums that examine the area's own past, as well as the Civil Rights Movement on a national scale. Learn more about the city's history and find the best places to visit with our list of the top attractions in Montgomery.

See also: Where to Stay in Montgomery

1. Visit the Civil Rights Memorial

2. walk in dr. king's footsteps at the dexter avenue king memorial baptist church and the dexter parsonage museum, 3. montgomery museum of fine arts, 4. rosa parks library and museum, 5. hank williams museum, 6. visit the montgomery zoo, 7. explore old alabama town, 8. the mooseum, 9. freedom rides museum, 10. tour the alabama state capitol, 11. alabama state archives and history museum, 12. visit the national memorial for peace and justice, 13. the legacy museum, 14. relax at riverfront park, 15. alabama safari park, where to stay in montgomery for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in montgomery, al, montgomery, al - climate chart.

The Civil Rights Memorial sits across the street from the Southern Poverty Law Center offices, commemorating those who died during the Civil Rights Movement. The memorial is surrounded by a curving black granite wall with the words "until justice rolls down like waters and righteousness like a mighty stream" scrolled across.

Below the wall is a black granite disc with water flowing over the surface, which is engraved with the names of those who lost their lives in the fight for civil rights. The memorial is located in an open area next to the Civil Rights Memorial Center .

Here, tourists will find a variety of exhibits and educational displays, as well as the Wall of Tolerance, which displays the names of visitors who have pledged to work toward tolerance and justice. Visitors may add their own names to the list, which is displayed digitally on the wall of the memorial center.

Address: 400 Washington Avenue, Montgomery, Alabama

Official site: www.splcenter.org/civil-rights-memorial

The Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church was founded in 1877 on the site of a slave trader's pen. Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr served as pastor here from 1954 through 1960, and a mural inside the church features Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr's journey from Montgomery to Memphis.

King and his family lived in the church's nine-room parsonage during his tenure, and it now houses the Dexter Parsonage Museum. The home, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, has been restored to what it was like during the Kings' residence, including a significant amount of the original furnishings.

The museum also houses an interpretive center with photographs, exhibits, and timelines, which discuss the civil rights movement in Montgomery and the involvement of the church ministers and members. Behind the museum sits the King-Johns Garden for Reflection , a space set aside for meditation and reflection.

Address: 454 Dexter Avenue, Montgomery, Alabama

Official site: www.dexterkingmemorial.org/tours/parsonage-museum

The Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts has a permanent collection of more than 4,000 works, the majority of which are examples of American art from the 1700s through the present. Among these, there is an extensive collection of fragile paper-based artwork including drawings, watercolors, etchings, woodcuts, and engravings by prominent American artists like Winslow Homer and John Marin.

Also within the American art collection is an exhibit of regional art, focusing on folk artists and self-taught artists, incuding paintings, drawings, and crafts, with a large quilt collection. In addition to the American art, the museum houses various examples of European art, as well as a collection of African art, which includes sculpture, furniture, textiles, and masks.

Another highlight of the museum is its decorative arts gallery, with several examples of domestic and imported porcelain, and the Weil Atrium Gallery, which houses glassworks from various celebrated glassblowers including Dale Chihuly and Tiffany Studios. The museum also hosts traveling exhibitions and educational programs.

Address: One Museum Drive, Montgomery, Alabama

Official site: http://mmfa.org/

The Rosa Parks Library and Museum is located in downtown Montgomery near the site of her arrest after her legendary stand against segregation. Among the historic artifacts on display are a 1955 Montgomery city bus and one of the station wagons used by the boycotters during their movement to end segregation on public transportation.

Other exhibits include photographs, court documents, and even Rosa's original fingerprint record from her arrest. Visitors will learn about the social and political climate of 1950s Montgomery and will be moved as they hear the personal stories of the Montgomery Bus Boycott and other important moments in Civil Rights history. The museum also hosts special events, educational programs, and traveling exhibits throughout the year.

Address: 252 Montgomery Street, Montgomery, Alabama

Official site: www.troy.edu/rosaparks

The Hank Williams Museum in downtown Montgomery commemorates one of country music's most famous stars. Visitors can view the museum's extensive collection of Hank's personal belongings, including his powder-blue 1952 Cadillac; a Steinway piano; two Gibson guitars; and a large collection of his clothing, from his first childhood cowboy boots to his stage attire.

Other personal items include artwork from his home, musical instruments, and everyday items like his shaving kit and shoe-shine kit. Memorabilia includes a variety of awards, including Platinum Records, as well as sheet music, autographed vinyl records, and photographs.

Also in Montgomery, the Hank Williams Memorial at Oakwood Annex Cemetery is the singer's final resting place, along with his wife and other family members. The grave site is located on Commerce Street and is a popular tourist destination for country music fans.

Address: 118 Commerce Street, Montgomery, Alabama

Official site: http://thehankwilliamsmuseum.net/

Montgomery Zoo is a particularly popular Montgomery attraction for families, full of a wide variety of animals from all over the world. The Australian habitat is home to some of the continent's most famous residents, including kangaroos and wallabies. Visitors will find several African animals as well, including cheetahs, elephants, hippos, and giraffes, while Asian residents include the endangered Sumatran tiger and Indian rhino.

The South American exhibit includes the emerald tree boa, Chilean flamingo, a wide variety of frogs, and the endangered golden lion tamarin. There is also a North American area with bald eagles, bison, and black bear, as well as a petting zoo where kids can feed the African pygmy goats.

There are several opportunities to get up close to the animals, the most popular being the giraffe exhibit, where you can get face-to-face with these graceful giants and hand feed them. Visitors can also watch zookeepers conduct a lion training session, get to know the zoo's three African elephants at the elephant keeper talk, and walk among birds in Parakeet Cove and the South American Flight Aviary.

Those who don't mind taxidermy will also be interested in the Mann Wildlife and Learning Museum , which has lifelike displays depicting a variety of animals in their natural habitats.

Address: 2301 Coliseum Parkway, Montgomery, Alabama

Official site: www.montgomeryzoo.com

Old Alabama Town is a series of more than 50 historic homes and buildings in historic downtown Montgomery, which have been restored to their original state and are open to the public for touring. Each property has been authentically furnished and outfitted to represent life in 19th- and early 20th-century Alabama, and interpreters are available throughout the neighborhood to answer questions.

The centerpiece of the buildings is the Ordeman House , and admission includes a guided tour of this home, as well as a map and guide to the remaining properties. Among other remarkable buildings are the 1895 Adams Chapel School; the 1892 Corner Grocery Store; and the stunning Ware-Farley-Hood House, which was built around 1850.

Address: 301 Columbus Street, Montgomery, Alabama

A visit to the MOOseum is one of the more unique things to do in Montgomery, especially popular with younger children. Here, visitors will learn all about Alabama's cattle industry, from its start in 1495 to the present-day, through timelines, history exhibits, and video presentations.

You can learn all about cows, from their breeds and complex digestive system to the food and products they produce. Kids can dress up as cowboys and cowgirls in the play arena and learn about beef and food safety in Slim's Kitchen. Another highlight is the "Beef Wagon," a popular place for family photo-ops.

Address: 201 South Bainbridge Street, Montgomery, Alabama

Official site: www.bamabeef.org/p/about/273

The Freedom Rides Museum is located at the former Montgomery Greyhound station, where history was made as the Freedom Riders got off their bus on May 20th, 1961. The station has been restored to appear as it was in 1961 and houses a modest collection of exhibits about the movement that eventually succeeded in ending segregation on public transportation.

Exhibits include photographs, documents, and biographies of each of the brave young men and women who were part of the momentous statement. The museum is an official stop on the U.S. Civil Rights Trail.

Address: 210 South Court Street, Montgomery, Alabama

Official site: ahc.alabama.gov/properties/freedomrides/freedomrides.aspx

The State Capitol building in Montgomery was rebuilt in Greek Revival style after the original was destroyed by a fire in 1850. This historic building served as both the state Capitol and the Capitol of the Confederacy during the Civil War and was later the backdrop for one of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s most famous speeches, delivered at the end of the Selma to Montgomery March for voting rights.

Both a National Historic Landmark and a U.S. Civil Rights Trail destination, the capitol building is now a working museum. Visitors can tour the Senate and Old Supreme Court Chambers, the House of Representatives, and the Rotunda. Highlights include historic murals in the Rotunda and trompe l'oeil paintings on the ceiling of the Senate Chamber, as well as the gardens and statues that adorn the five-acre grounds.

Address: 600 Dexter Avenue, Montgomery, Alabama

Official site: https://ahc.alabama.gov/alabama-state-capitol.aspx

The State Archives and History Museum explores the history of Alabama through artifacts and historic documents. Artifacts include Native American and pioneer artifacts, as well as a selection of Civil War items, including regimental flags and portrait galleries. In addition, multimedia presentations expand on various moments in Alabama history and explore broader topics like the cotton industry and civil rights.

The State Archives in Montgomery was founded in 1901 as the first state archival agency in the nation. This turn-of-the-century building features marble walls and staircases of Tennessee gray marble and Alabama white marble. The second floor of the archives is a room dedicated to former Vice President William Rufus King. The room displays King's personal furniture, silver, china, and some of this clothing. Documents on display allow visitors a glimpse of this fascinating man and the period in which he lived.

Address: 624 Washington Ave, Montgomery, Alabama

Official site: http://archives.state.al.us/

About a 15-minute walk from the Legacy Museum is the newly unveiled National Memorial for Peace and Justice, the first memorial in the nation to be made in memory of the African Americans who were affected by slavery, lynchings, and racial injustice. This memorial, covering a total of six acres, includes sculptures, monuments, and artwork, which honor major figures in the Civil Rights movement.

Perhaps the most impactful statement is the field of 800 monuments, each representing a county where lynchings occurred, and each engraved with the names of the known victims. These monuments are waiting to be claimed by their respective counties in hopes that acknowledgement of a dark past will lead to a brighter future.

Address: 417 Caroline Street, Montgomery, Alabama

The Legacy Museum is dedicated to preserving the history of racial injustice and bringing its many aspects into the public awareness. The museum is located on the spot where thousands of slaves were once warehoused while awaiting their unknown fates, within walking distance of the city's former slave auction site and the rail station that supported the slave trade.

The museum utilizes a variety of media to discuss how slavery, segregation, lynching, and modern issues of racial profiling and mass incarceration have shaped the nation's history and present. Among its most compelling exhibits are the personal narratives of African Americans who have been subjected to injustice, and the hundreds of sculptures depicting their struggles. There are also major exhibits dedicated to specific issues, including the economics of slavery, life in the Jim Crow south, voting rights, and other topics.

The museum is fully accessible to those with mobility issues.

Address: 400 North Court Street, Montgomery, Alabama

Official site: museumandmemorial.eji.org

Montgomery's Riverfront Park is an excellent place to find entertainment and activities for the entire family. One of the most popular activities here is a ride on the Harriott II Riverboat , a 19 th -century passenger boat that provides scenic cruises, as well as dinner cruises featuring live music and dancing.

The riverboat is docked next to the Riverfront Amphitheater , a lovely open-air venue that overlooks the water and hosts a variety of free entertainment, including musical and theatrical performances. Next to the amphitheater is a good-sized Splashpad where kids (and anyone else) can cool off on a hot Alabama day.

Also part of the park is Riverwalk Stadium , a baseball park that is home to the Montgomery Biscuits of the Southern League. Parts of the structure incorporate buildings from the former historic train station, and there is also a children's playground on-site.

Address: 355 Commerce Street, Montgomery, Alabama

Official site: www.funinmontgomery.com

Located about 20 minutes from the city, this 350-acre park provides a unique experience for all ages. Visitors can explore the park from the comfort of their own vehicle, traveling over three miles of road to see wildlife roaming free in their own environment. Guests are permitted to feed the animals using the park's special dietary grains.

Among the park's residents are a variety of large mammals and birds from around the world, including many native to Africa. Exotic residents include zebras, camels, gazelles, water buffalo, Watusi cattle, and emus. The park is also home to deer, llamas, and other domestic wildlife.

A highlight of the park is the opportunity to hand-feed giraffes lettuce leaves, getting up-close to the animals. Guests can also hand-feed the birds in the park's free flight aviary, a unique opportunity to interact with hundreds of friendly budgies. There is also a petting area where kids can feed and pet goats and pigs.

Admission fees are used not only for the park but to help expand public education, fund habitat preservation, and assist captive breeding programs that help sustain populations of rare and endangered animals.

Address: 1664 Venable Road, Hope Hull, Alabama

Official site: www.alabamasafaripark.com

We recommend these convenient hotels in Montgomery with easy access to the city's most popular museums and memorials:

• The Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa at the Convention Center offers mid-range pricing, river views, and a rooftop pool; it's located in Montgomery's entertainment district.
• Near many shops and restaurants, the Homewood Suites by Hilton Montgomery EastChase is a 3-star hotel with complimentary evening reception and laundry services, as well as recreational facilities, including an outdoor pool and multi-sports court.
• The Hampton Inn & Suites Montgomery-Downtown has affordable rates in a great location in the heart of downtown, offering free hot breakfast, bicycle rental, and private on-site parking.
• An excellent budget choice is Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Montgomery located within a short drive of downtown. This pet-friendly hotel offers free breakfast and amenities including self-serve laundry, baggage storage, and free Wi-Fi.

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Exploring Alabama: Montgomery is home to some of Alabama's top tourist attractions , but there is plenty more to see in this southern state. Just an hour-and-a-half drive to the north, Birmingham has a variety of popular attractions , from important civil rights landmarks like the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church to family favorites like the McWane Science Center. Tourists will also find plenty to see and do in Mobile , Alabama's largest coastal city. Mobile is known for its maritime history and lively cultural scene, home to the oldest Mardi Gras celebration in the nation.

Civil Rights Landmarks and Attractions: Alabama is home to several stops on the Civil Rights Trail, as are its neighboring states. Tourists can take an easy day trip from Montgomery to see the sites of Atlanta including the Martin Luther King, Jr. Birth Home and National Historic Park, the King Center, and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights.

A longer drive from Montgomery but a straight shot on the highway, Jackson, Mississippi offers the chance to see several more historic civil rights sites. Among Jackson's many popular attractions, tourists will find the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum, the Medgar Evers Home Museum, and the Mississippi Freedom Trail.

More on Alabama

26 Historic Things to Do in Montgomery, Alabama

The top things to do in Montgomery, Alabama, are connected to the civil rights movement. This is a powerful place, and visits here reward those who take an honest approach to travel in the region . 

When we educate ourselves about our history, that’s when we can honestly learn from it.  

For us, this was one of the most moving places we visited on our travels in the South . If you only have a day for Montgomery attractions, that’s enough to get a feel for the Alabama town and why it’s become a pilgrimage for so many. It’s also a lively place, family-friendly, with delicious food to boot. 

Let’s dive into all of the best things to do in Montgomery, AL.

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links below may be affiliate links, including links through the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. At no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I won’t recommend something I have not used/would not use myself, and any income earned supports the upkeep of this site.

What is Montgomery, Alabama, famous for?

Montgomery, Alabama, is famous for being a center of the civil rights movement. The city does an excellent job of confronting its past and presenting visitors with opportunities to learn about a difficult history.

Is Montgomery, Alabama, worth visiting?

Montgomery, Alabama, is definitely worth visiting as a center of the civil rights movement. It also has a variety of family-friendly attractions and that southern hospitality. 

How do I spend a day in Montgomery, Alabama?

You can spend a day in Montgomery, Alabama, like this:

• Visit The Legacy Museum: From Enslavement to Mass Incarceration.
• Learn more at the Rosa Parks Museum.
• Take a somber walk through The National Memorial for Peace and Justice.
• Eat lunch at Dreamland Bar-B-Que. 
• Stroll Riverfront Park.
• Tour The Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum.
• See the Alabama State Capitol.
• Grab dinner at Central.

Things to Do in Montgomery, Alabama

As you plan what to do in Montgomery, Alabama, pay attention to museum hours. We missed out on a few things due to a lack of planning as if I was trying to prove that I’m truly regular .

If you’d like to follow along on my itinerary of Montgomery things to do, I have a Google map for you of everything I highlight here:

GIMME MY CITY MAP OF MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA

I’ll include everything we did on our own trip, along with some additional ideas at the end for travelers with more time.

1. Visit The Legacy Museum: From Enslavement to Mass Incarceration.

We’ve visited numerous sites dedicated to the plight of Black people in the United States, but this museum is by far both the most extensive and the most honest. 

Note: Even its placement is purposeful. The museum sits just blocks away from what was once a large slave auction space.

The Legacy Museum is a comprehensive history of slavery and its ramifications. You’ll see exhibits on the transatlantic slave trade, the domestic slave trade, the Reconstruction era, and Jim Crow laws. 

You’ll be taken all the way to the modern day with exhibits on the over-incarceration of Black people in this country and continued racial segregation. You could easily spend three hours or more at this place, and despite the heavy content, it’s meant to be interactive. 

Stations throughout offer testimony from enslaved individuals and incarcerated men and women. Several theaters throughout play footage from the time periods described. You’ll certainly learn things that may shock you.

For example, it wasn’t until the year 2000 that Alabama finally got rid of its laws against interracial marriage. It was the last state to do so.

A reflection room at the end of your visit is dedicated to people who have fought for the cause of Black rights. Many of these activists gave their lives to that cause. It’s a powerful statement.

Tickets are available online ahead of your visit if you’re visiting during a busy travel time, but we had no trouble walking up and purchasing passes upon arrival. 

2. Learn more at the Rosa Parks Library and Museum.

The Rosa Parks Library and Museum at downtown Montgomery’s Troy University sits at the site Parks was arrested for refusing to give up her seat to a white bus rider in 1955. 

Artifacts include her original arrest record, a city bus from that era, and a restored station wagon used to transport protestors that participated in the resulting Montgomery Bus Boycott. 

Fun fact: You can make a quick visit to the Rosa Parks Bus Stop while you’re here. While there, read a historical marker that details not only where she boarded, but the start of the Montgomery Bus Boycott.

Pre-bookings aren’t required for your visit, but check the website before you go. This one closes down sometimes due to persistent staffing shortages. Free parking is available at any of the nearby Troy University lots.

3. Walk through The National Memorial for Peace and Justice.

Use the same ticket you purchased for The Legacy Museum to see this moving memorial. Walk through a display of pillars for every county in the country with a documented lynching. Read about the victims who lost their lives to racism. 

Think about how far we’ve come since then but also how far we have yet to go. 

4. Explore Montgomery’s historical markers.

You can spend a full day just looking at the historical markers in Montgomery. 

We caught the birthplace of Nat King Cole across from the Alabama State University football stadium entirely by accident. The Alabama Historical Commission does a great job of updating historical markers throughout the city for visitors interested in self-guided tours of the area. 

5. Eat the best barbecue in Montgomery.

Return to where you started at the Legacy Museum and the Alley entertainment district for lunch at Dreamland Bar-B-Que . 

Fun fact: The Southern chain was started in Tuscaloosa by “Big Daddy” John Bishop, a born-and-raised Alabaman who worked as a brick mason before opening his first rib joint.

While it’s a franchise today, it’s still one of the best spots for ribs, smoked meats, and banana pudding in the region. The spot near the Montgomery Riverwalk Stadium is the most popular in Montgomery, but there’s another location on Vaughn Road if you want less of a wait.

6. Eat more grub at Montgomery’s best cheap eats.

Not interested in barbecue? I’m sorry. You’re not out of luck, though. Here are a few more delicious spots in town:

• Capitol Oyster Bar : This waterfront eatery thankfully serves up more than oysters. (I like to call them “boogers of the sea.”) Fish platters, fried shrimp, and frog legs await on their seafood-heavy menu. They also host live music at dinner.
• Chappy’s Deli : If you’re limited for time and don’t need a sit-down meal, Reubens are always good. I’ve marked their popular location on Perry Hill on your map, but there are additional delis on Vaughn Road and South Boulevard. 
• Sushi Cafe : I promise you can get good sushi in Montgomery. It’s likely more affordable than big-city sushi, too. Order any of their generous lunch specials to see what I mean. You can choose two of their specialty rolls for just over $15. 

7. Stroll Riverfront Park.

Walk off that grub a bit at the Montgomery Riverfront Park, a hub for activity in the city. If you’re here for more than a day, this is where you’d catch the Harriott II Riverboat . Sunny weekends might mean live music, too, but the Riverwalk itself is a nice place to get some steps in. 

8. Enjoy the sun in Blount Cultural Park.

If you love a great open space, don’t miss Blount Cultural Park. This is one of the most scenic places in Montgomery. The open space close to the fine arts museum offers a little change of pace for Montgomery visitors. If you’re visiting with your pup, check out the dog park here.

9. Tour The Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum.

Visit The Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum for a glimpse into the home they lived in together for a year in the 1930s. Despite that limited history, the museum is the only surviving home they shared. 

It’s dedicated to memorabilia, their art, and a modest exhibit that includes suits worn by Leonardo DiCaprio in The Great Gatsby . Visits are free, although they suggest a $5 donation per person. The top two apartments are apparently listed on Airbnb if you’re feeling spendy. 

Note: If you’re a big Fitzgerald fan and worried about the limited hours at this one, it may make more sense to start your day here. On days of operation, the museum closes at 3pm. It’s not a long visit, but you don’t want to be shut out if it’s something you’ve looked forward to.

10. See the memorial at the Civil Rights Memorial Center.

The center itself was closed when we were there, but I’m including it here for the memorial out front. Pause for a few minutes to read through a timeline of important civil rights movement moments, including information about those who died for the cause.

11. Stop by the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church.

This church served as a meeting place and planning hub for the Montgomery Improvement Association (MIA) during the civil rights movement. This was also the first place Martin Luther King, Jr., served as pastor. A plaque out front is worth a look.

12. Plan a visit to the Dexter Parsonage Museum.

This one was also closed during our visit, but you can visit the site from the outside on a quick stop. This is where Martin Luther King, Jr., lived in the 1950s. You can still see obvious bomb damage on the porch from several attempts at his life during that time period.

Hours are limited at this one. If it’s a priority for you, move some things around in your Montgomery itinerary to make a tour happen. During our stay, it was only open from 10am-4pm on Fridays and Saturdays and by appointment only on other days. 

Unfortunately, I never got a response to my appointment request to make it happen for us, so give yourself some lead time if you want to try to visit the Dexter Parsonage Museum .

13. Get to know Hank Williams.

See a comprehensive collection of items that belonged to Hank Williams at The Hank Williams Museum . You’ll learn a detailed history of his trajectory from his first song to becoming a fixture at the Grand Ole Opry. He’s not my jam, but make time for this one you’re a fan.

If you’re a superfan, round out your visit with a trip to the Hank Williams Statue nearby.

14. See the Alabama State Capitol.

Visit Alabama’s capitol building for its impressive dome and manicured green spaces. You can visit inside for free during operating hours. Guided tours are only available for groups of 15 or more.

15. Laugh about the First White House of the Confederacy.

You’ll be close to the First White House of the Confederacy while you’re exploring the Alabama State Capitol area. I’d recommend a quick look if only to smile about how modest it was. 

I hope Jefferson Davis can hear me somehow, to be honest.

16. Stop by the Alabama state archives.

With more time, you’re close to the Alabama Department of Archives and History from here. This is the home of the Alabama state archives (obviously) and the Alabama Museum. Visit for an overview of Alabama history and exhibits about The First Alabamians.

Say that 10 times fast.

17. Explore more of the best restaurants in Montgomery, Alabama.

Whether you’re here for one day in Montgomery or a full weekend getaway, reward yourself with another delicious meal at one of Montgomery’s best restaurants on one your evenings. Here are a few:

• Central : This one bills itself as “upscale casual,” but prices lean more toward special occasion dining. Expect regionally-sourced plates like crispy skin duck and seared scallops with seasonal flavors. Reservations are recommended via Resy .
• Sa Za Serious Italian Food : It wouldn’t be a food list around here without pizza. This is your best bet for ‘za in the city. They have a full pasta menu, too, but that’d mean you’re not trying Grandma’s Pizza. Reservations are available .
• Vintage Year : This is another fancy option for date nights. If you’re here on a Tuesday, they host a burger night featuring ingredients like wagyu beef, herbed goat cheese, and peppered bacon. Make reservations via Resy.

More Montgomery, Alabama, Things to Do

We only had a few days in Montgomery and wanted to make sure to visit Selma during that stay. If you have more time, by the way, I highly recommend a trip to nearby Selma , Alabama.

If you’re in Montgomery for a longer stay, there’s quite a bit more to do as far as Montgomery tourist attractions. Seeking more places to visit in Montgomery, Alabama? Here are a few that are still on our list for next time:

• Freedom Rides Museum : This was closed during our trip, a running theme it seems. Visit the revamped Montgomery Greyhound Bus Station to learn more about the Freedom Riders and the attack on participants at this site in 1961.
• Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts : This art museum is modest but completely free. Enjoy over 4,000 works of art by American artists from the 18th to 21st centuries. Don’t miss the sculpture garden outside if it’s a nice day.
• Wright Brothers Park: See a full-scale replica of the Wright Flyer, the first airplane invented (and flown!) by Orville and Wilbur Wright. Enjoy views of the Alabama River while you’re there.
• Old Alabama Town : This is one of those living history experiences that allows you to see how Alabamians lived back in the day. Visit Thursday-Saturday to see buildings that include the Lucas Tavern, the oldest building in Montgomery.
• Eastbrook Antique Flea Market & Antique Mall : Antique malls just aren’t my thing, but if they’re yours, the Eastbrook Flea Market is your best bet for all of those hidden treasures of your dreams.
• Montgomery Performing Arts Centre : If you’re not here for the Alabama Shakespeare Festival (more on that in a minute), this venue is your hub for live theater in Montgomery.
• Alabama Shakespeare Festival : This festival is one of the largest Shakespeare fests in the entire world. You don’t need to visit during a specific time, either. The festival hosts anywhere from six to nine productions each year.
• Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Learning Museum : If you’re looking for family-friendly activities in Montgomery, Alabama, the zoo should top your list. It’s also open daily, which I can’t say about much else in this town.
• The MOOseum : This one just isn’t up my alley, but if you’re traveling with the littles they may be into it. You’ll learn about cattle farming and cowboy heritage and how beef gets onto your plate. Nope, not joking!

Hotels in Montgomery, Alabama

There are a variety of hotels in Montgomery, Alabama, across all price points if you want to call the city home for a few days.

We stayed at the Drury Inn & Suites Montgomery on a quick trip there. It boasts a great location and a comfy price that makes this one a good option for budget travelers like us.

Use the map below to check out more options:

Montgomery Things to Do: FAQs

What are the top attractions to visit in montgomery.

The top attractions to visit in Montgomery are the city’s historical sites. This is where civil rights leaders gathered to plan their next moves. This is the home of the Montgomery Bus Boycott.

In modern times, Montgomery is an essential stop on any tour of civil rights movement-related sites in the United States.

What are the most popular things to do in Montgomery with kids?

The most popular things to do in Montgomery with kids are the Montgomery Zoo, the MOOseum, Old Alabama Town, and the Rosa Parks Library and Museum.

While The Legacy Museum is my top pick overall for things to see in Montgomery, it’s a heavy visit more suitable for older kids and teens.

What kind of food is Montgomery, AL, known for?

The food Montgomery, AL, is known for is southern food. That’s barbecue, all fried everything, biscuits, and pimento cheese.

It’s all of the things you’re likely craving at this moment because they’re sinful but so delicious.

Is there public transportation in Montgomery, AL?

There is public transportation in Montgomery, AL, in the form of buses. The Montgomery Area Transit System runs bus lines throughout the city.

That said, you’ll be able to see Montgomery more efficiently with a car. Use sites like Hotwire or Priceline to book a rental before you make the trip to Alabama for the best deals. With a car, you’ll have easy access to the best southern road trips , too.

How can I learn more about Montgomery’s history and civil rights significance?

You can learn more about Montgomery’s history and civil rights significance by visiting Montgomery, Alabama. The museums here offer an honest portrayal of not only the civil rights movement, but the lasting struggles of people of color in this country.

I’d highly recommend a visit as an essential stop on the U.S. Civil Rights Trail.

Ready for Things to Do in Alabama?

Your Flight: I use a variety of tools to find cheap airfare, but if you’re looking to book during a particular period of time, you should use Skyscanner . It’s a great tool for when you’re more flexible, too, as it allows you to compare travel based on length of travel, departure date, etc.

To get to Montgomery, Montgomery Regional Airport is a decent-sized airport. For better flight deals, Atlanta is even better. Search for flights into Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport if you don’t mind the drive. It’ll take a couple of hours to get from Atlanta to Montgomery.

For adventurous folks who travel on the reg, I also subscribe to  Going , formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights. You’ll get cheap flight deals from your home base straight to your inbox.

Your Accommodations: I typically recommend sites like Booking.com and Hotels.com for your accommodation needs with Vrbo as a short-term rental alternative. Scroll up for my top places to stay in Montgomery.

Seeking even more wallet-friendly accommodations? Try  Hostelworld . Their picks are heavily vetted and reviewed to offer you a safe experience on a budget.

Etc.: For general travel goodies, visit my Favorite Things page. For more information on planning your travel, visit my Travel To o ls page.

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Planning a road trip? Check out more content for travel in the South:

• A Guide to Scenic Congaree National Park
• The Most Romantic Places in Savannah, Georgia
• Take a Trip to Baton Rouge, Louisiana
• Take a Drive on the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway
• Love Lake Life? Visit Georgia’s Lake Oconee

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15 Best Things to do in Montgomery You Shouldn’t Miss

This article is about all the best things to do in Montgomery AL

April 29, 2022 //  by  Southern Trippers

Are you on the hunt for all the best things to do in Montgomery? Well, you have come to the right place. Here we have so much information on here that you will not have to look anywhere else. Montgomery is the capital city of Alabama and is home to so many of the important civil rights movements that happened in America from 1950 to the 1960s led by Martin Luther King Jr.

You will find so many things to do in Montgomery from famous historic sites, awesome southern restaurants , lively jazz districts, and so many wonderful museums. Although Montgomery is in the center of the state, the Alabama river offers waterfront dining in Montgomery activities for everyone to enjoy. No matter how long you plan to visit Montgomery it is the perfect place for couples and families alike to spend their vacation.

15 Best Things to do in Montgomery AL You Shouldn’t Miss

National memorial for peace and justice.

This is one of the most important places to visit in Montgomery. At this memorial, you will be able to honor 4,400 African American men, women, and children that were brutally killed here not even a hundred years ago during the years between 1877 and 1950. It is the first memorial in America that has been made to honor all of the men and women and children who were affected by racial injustice.

You will also find here 800 steel monuments that represent all of the counties where a lynching took place in America. The National Memorial for Peace and Justice has only been open since 2018 and its mission is to represent history openly and honestly with the hope for repair. They are open Wednesday to Sunday from 9 am to 5 pm so make sure to stop by while in town because this is one of the best places to visit in Montgomery.

Montgomery Museum of the Fine Arts

The Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts is one of the best things to do in Montgomery for adults. Before you visit make sure to check out the calendar online because the exhibits are always changing but they are open to 4,000 works of art.

You can visit the museum from Tuesday – to Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm. Make sure to visit the museum shop to get a souvenir to take home. Another amazing thing about this museum is it is one of the best free things to do in Montgomery AL.

Freedom Rides Museum

This iconic location was once home to the grey house bus station where the young men and women of the Freedom Riders took a stand, or a seat, against segregated travel in 1961. These brave young men and women risked their lives and changed history as they took their famous ride from Washington, D.C., to New Orleans. They were ready to show the world that something could come out of protesting peace.

The Freedom Rights Museum is open Tuesday to Friday from 11 am to 4 pm and Saturday from 12 pm to 4 pm. Here you will learn all about the young adults who changed the world. The ticket prices are very reasonable making this museum one of the most popular places to visit in Montgomery.

Rosa Parks Museum

This famous museum is located inside the Troy University at Montgomery satellite campus. The Rosa Parks Museum should be high on your list of what to do in Montgomery. Here you will find exhibits from the 1955 bus boycott and an active memorial to the life of civil rights activist Rosa Parks.

When you visit here you will also learn about the other important historic events that happened in Montgomery like the freedom riders with exhibitions that will help social consciousness, preaches peace, and teaches appreciation and acceptance for all people. You do not want to miss out on one best things to do in Montgomery and learn some important history as you do.

Alabama State Capitol Building

The Alabama State Capitol Building is recognized as a National Register of Historic Places because it was once home to the First Confederate Capitol before it was moved to Richmond, Virginia. You can find the capital building on the Captial Hill and it is also a working museum and home to the State Governor.

This is one of the best attractions in Montgomery because it is also recognized as a destination on the U.S. Civil Rights Trail which stretches across 14 states and has over 100 stops. They are open Monday – Friday 8 am to 4:30 pm and it is also one of the free things to do in Montgomery.

Legacy Museum

The Legacy Museum is one most important attractions in Montgomery to go and learn about all the dark history that happened in Montgomery. The museum teaches lessons about enslavement to mass incarceration. Just steps away from the front door there is a block where hundreds of thousands of enslaved people were auctioned off not too long along in the 19th century

Here you will be able to learn through film, first-person narratives, and photographers. They are open Wednesday to Sunday from 9 am to 5 pm so make sure to visit one of the most important museums on your list of things to do in Montgomery.

Montgomery Performing Arts Centre

The Montgomery Performing Arts Centre is one of the best things to do in downtown Montgomery. Here you can find a variety of shows like music concerts, stand-up comedy, occasional opera, plus dance and children’s shows. Make sure to check their website for when you are visiting they are always getting big-name people coming on tour here.

If you plan on visiting one of the most fun attractions in Montgomery make sure you buy your ticket directly at the box office which is open or buy directly on Ticketmaster they do not accept any other types of tickets.

Hank Williams Museum

This museum honors Hank Williams Sr. who is known to many as the father of country music. Hank Williams started his country music career in Montgomery AL and although he died at the young age of 29 he had a very successful career. He had numerous top hits on all of his records so even if you aren’t a fan of country music you are sure to know at least one of his songs.

Here on display, you will find guitars, a pretty blue car, and his piano. One of the more interesting things that most people do not know about Hank Williams is that he had a spiritual album that he recorded under the name of Luke the Drifter. If you are looking for what to do in Montgomery make sure to put the Hank Williams Museum on your list to learn even more about his life.

Alabama Shakespeare Festival

The Alabama Shakespeare Festival has been playing at the Carolyn Blount Theatre since 1972 and has put on more than 500 plays. Every year there are over 300,000 visitors a year from over 60 countries come to watch Shakespear in this beautiful theatre making it one of the most popular things to do in Montgomery.

If you are visiting during the warmer months of the year be sure to walk through the lovely Shakespeare Gardens they are known to be beautiful. Make sure to check the Alabama Shakespeare Festival website for the upcoming show list and to check out what is currently playing.

Alley Entertainment District

Make sure to check out the Alley Entertainment District if you are looking for things to do in Montgomery at night. The Alley District is always playing jazz music and has been compared to the lively city of New Orleans. There are many jazz bars, a beer brewery, and many other Montgomery activities to enjoy.

When you get to the Alley Entertainment District you will know which restaurants are participating because they will have a sign in the front window, or even out on the street. Once inside the district, you are allowed to walk around and enjoy the sites with your beverage. You can enjoy yourself at many different places from 9 am to 12 am here.

Harriott 2 Riverboat

At the Harriot 2 Riverboat, you will be able to find one of the most exciting things to do in downtown Montgomery docked right on the river. The Harriott 2 Riverboat is a 19th-century paddle-wheeled boat that has been restored to host you and your family for a day out on the water. While cruising down the river you can enjoy live music, dinner, and dancing making this a wonderful trip for any age group.

You have to order your tickets at least 48 hours before your trip either online or at the box office in Riverwalk Stadium. They do offer moonlight cruises and it is one of the most wonderful and romantic things to do in Montgomery at night. Be sure to check out their website, or stop by the box office to see when what show they will be putting on while you are in town.

King Memorial Baptist Church

The King Memorial Baptist Church is one of the most popular attractions in Montgomery. This is the church where Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. preached for 6 years from 1954 to 1960. This old church was first opened back in 1879 and has been a part of the community in Montgomery AL ever since.

It was once the place where the Normal School for Colored Students, which was a part of the University of Alabama, held its classes. Legend also has it that this is also where Martin Luther King Jr. organized the 1956 bus boycott. They do have guided tours where you can go and see where he held his office and listen to a short video about the history of the church.

Riverfront Park

When in town you should check out the Riverfront Park it is one of the best things to do in Montgomery with kids. There are so many different activities to choose from that you could be entertained all day if you wanted to. Most people enjoy just sitting on the grass and having a picnic while watching the boats cruise down the river.

While visiting be on the lookout for the Montgomery activities like rides down the river, live music, baseball games, and enjoy the splash pad when the weather is nice enough. Make sure to check out the parks and recs website, or just stop by the Riverfront Park to see what kind of fun you and your family can get into.

Haunted Montgomery Tours

If you are into spooky stories about the history of Alabama then this is one of the best things to do in Montgomery at night for you to check out. They show you all the hidden history and ghost sightings that have happened throughout the town of Montgomery while riding around in an old hearse with the tour guide. There are only 6 seats on the hearse so make sure you book your tickets fast.

They ask that you please book your tour at least 24 hours in advance either online or you can give them a call. The tours are only on the weekend and start at 9:00 pm on Friday and Saturday. One of the tour stops is at the sight of one of the most famous unsolved murders that happened in Montgomery. If you are planning to visit around Halloween time you should book your spot as soon as you can.

Eastbrook Flea Market and Antique Mall

If you love shopping secondhand and finding hidden treasures then the Eastbrook Flea market and Antique Mall would be one of the places to visit in Montgomery. This mall has 60,000 square feet and 3 stories high with over 300 vendors that sell modern and historic items so you are sure to find something for everyone in the family.

They are known to have everything from big pieces of antique furniture to fresh flowers for your garden. They are open every day of the week from 10 am to 6 pm and usually are offering free popcorn for you to stroll around at your leisure and find the perfect souvenir from your vacation to Montgomery AL.

Top Things to Do in Montgomery, AL

Places to visit in montgomery, explore popular experiences, tours in and around montgomery.

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Sip-n-Cycle Pedal Cruise in Montgomery

Magical Montgomery Scavenger Hunt

6 Hours Private Civil Rights Tour of Montgomery

Montgomery Scavenger Hunt: History & Heroes

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Selma Civil Rights Walk of Freedom Self Guided GPS APP Audio Tour

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Montgomery City Multi-Attraction Pass

Tours & sightseeing.

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Walking tours, what travellers are saying.

• Legacy Museum
• National Memorial for Peace and Justice
• Rosa Parks Library and Museum
• Dexter Parsonage Museum - Dr. Martin Luther King home
• Civil Rights Memorial Center
• Alabama Safari Park
• Montgomery Zoo
• Riverfront Park
• Wynton M. Blount Cultural Park
• Wright Brothers Park
• Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church

27 Best & Fun Things To Do In Montgomery (Alabama)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: June 18, 2022  - Last updated: October 17, 2023

If you’re looking for fun and unique things to do in Montgomery, AL you’ve landed in the right place.

Not only is Montgomery the capital of The Cotton State, but it is fraught with history concerning the civil rights movement, home to Dr. Martin Luther King, and so much more.

Furthermore, Montgomery is rife with an incredible arts scene, scenic outdoor sites, fabulous shopping, and amazing eateries.

Known for its inviting downtown area, astounding landmarks, and insightful attractions, the city is a perfect travel destination for families, couples, or friend groups.

With so many excellent places to go in one colorful city, it’s no wonder travelers come from far and wide to see Monty, as the city is colloquially known.

Besides the super attractions, the city has a welcoming vibe, inviting accommodations, and so much to see and do.

So if you’re on the fence about planning a vacation to Montgomery, take a look at all the wonderful things to do.

Table of Contents

1. Montgomery Zoo

Ronnie Howard / Shutterstock

The Montgomery Zoo is a 40-acre gem that is one of the best things to do in Montgomery, Alabama.

The zoo is home to nearly 800 animals and is a great place to spend the day with loved ones.

What’s more, the nearly 140 species of animals that call the zoo home hail from parts of South America, the savannas of Africa, and the mountain peaks of Asia.

Besides the amazing wildlife you’ll encounter during your visit to the zoo, the well-manicured landscaping makes the experience all the more enjoyable.

Furthermore, some of the eclectic wildlife you’ll come to know at the Montgomery Zoo includes African birds, reptiles, komodo dragons, North American bald eagles, an Eastern bongo calf, and so much more.

Besides simply observing the spectacular animals in their recreated habitats, some of the experiences are even interactive.

Some of the zoo’s animal encounters include a koi fish feeding pond, freshwater fish encounters, a meet-and-greet with a giraffe, and a petting zoo to name a few.

Address: 2301 Coliseum Pkwy, Montgomery, AL 36110, United States

2. Hank Williams Museum

JNix / Shutterstock

If you’re looking for things to do in Alabama with the country music lover in your life, be sure to visit Hank Williams Museum .

One of the best attractions around the Montgomery, Alabama area, the museum houses the most complete collection of artifacts and memorabilia concerning famed country star and actor, Hank Williams.

Open seven days a week, today, this weekend, or anytime is a good time to visit the museum.

Nestled in downtown Montgomery, the Hank Williams Museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts that retell the story of Hank Williams’s life.

Some of the unique items you’ll encounter during a tour of the museum include nearly 40 showcases of personal items, Williams’s 1952 Cadillac, clothing and costumes, beautifully maintained musical instruments, and even Williams’s high school yearbook.

Whether you’re a country music fan or just interested in stepping into this icon’s shoes for a few hours, the Hank Williams Museum is a must-see.

Address: 118 Commerce St, Montgomery, AL 36104, United States

3. Rosa Parks Library and Museum

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Housed in Alabama’s Troy University, the Rosa Parks Library and Museum is one of the most poignant Montgomery attractions.

For starters, tours of the museum are self-guided and are one of the few free things to do for children under three years old.

Dedicated to preserving the legacy of Rosa Parks, a beacon of the civil rights movement, the museum is situated in downtown Montgomery at the very site of Parks’s famed arrest.

The only museum of its kind, the Rosa Parks Library and Museum is a must see when in AL.

Notably, the museum is a hub for artifacts relevant to Ms. Parks’s life as well as lessons from her social activism.

The driving force behind the Montgomery Bus Boycott, Rosa Parks was inspirational and influential.

During your visit to the museum, you’ll have the opportunity to learn all about the segregated South, the plight of African Americans, and the role of women in the civil rights movement.

One of the best historical places to visit in all of Montgomery, the Rosa Parks Library and Museum deserves a spot on your itinerary.

Address: 252 Montgomery St, Montgomery, AL 36104, United States

4. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts

This popular Montgomery museum is one of the top tourist attractions in all of AL.

If you’re looking for free things to do when you’re in town, Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts is the place; there are no admission or parking fees.

The museum houses an expansive collection of art from the 19th and 20th centuries including paintings, sculptures, master prints, and decorative arts.

Some of the museum’s galleries recount religious, social, and Southern art.

Furthermore, a beautiful sculpture garden is a lovely space to meander on a sunny day.

Other noteworthy facets of the museum include the Verde Cafe, perfect for a tasty lunch, and an incredible gift shop from whence archival prints are available for purchase.

Moreover, the museum hosts periodic special events such as children’s art courses, non-fiction historical readings, and art concerning activism workshops.

One of many wonderful places to see with family, be sure to leave room on your itinerary for the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts.

Address: 1 Museum Dr, Montgomery, AL 36117, United States

5. Riverfront Park

Captainess_travels / Shutterstock

One of the best outdoor attractions in Montgomery, Alabama, Riverfront Park is a hub for scenic tours, enjoyable dining, boating, and even concerts.

Of note, the park is home to an amphitheater where you can catch epic concerts and shows all year long as well as a beautiful riverwalk to meander all day long.

The park is also the site of Riverwalk Stadium where you can catch a baseball game when in season.

The historical Union Station Train Shed, also situated at the park, is fun to tour too.

Additionally, Riverfront Park has fun ways to spend time with family.

A children’s splash pad is a great way for little ones to beat the heat during the hot summer months while the Rotary Dog Park is the best spot for your four-legged friends to blow off some steam.

Riverfront Park is jam-packed with convenient amenities such as park benches, public restrooms, shelter rentals, nearby food trucks, and more.

Address: 355 Commerce St, Montgomery, AL 36104, United States

Visiting other parts of Alabama? Why not check out some of the things to do in Huntsville, AL ?

6. The Scott & Zelda Fitzgerald Museum

Michael Gordon / Shutterstock

If you’re a history or literary buff, you won’t want to miss out on a visit to The Scott & Zelda Fitzgerald Museum .

This preserved historical abode was once home to F. Scott Fitzgerald, famed novelist, and wife Zelda Sayre Fitzgerald.

These icons of the Jazz Era are memorialized in this museum which is the only one in the world paying homage to them.

One of a few must do sights for fans of “The Great Gatsby” and other famed Fitzgerald works, The Scott & Zelda Fitzgerald Museum is set in the historical home that was built in 1910.

Meticulously preserved to encapsulate the lives of the Fitzgeralds, the museum houses hundreds of photos, documents, written correspondence, and even relevant 1930s newspaper clippings.

What’s more, the museum is maintained in its original 1920s styling and decor.

When visiting the museum, you truly feel like you’re stepping into the history books.

One of the coolest points of interest in Montgomery, AL, be sure to check out The Scott & Zelda Fitzgerald Museum.

Address: 919 Felder Ave, Montgomery, AL 36106, United States

7. Alabama Shakespeare Festival

savoryexposure / flickr

One of the top 10 theater companies in the world, the Alabama Shakespeare Festival is one of the best Montgomery troupes.

The troupe is hosted by the Carolyn Blount Theater where up to three Shakespearean productions per year are produced.

Founded in 1972, the Alabama Shakespeare Festival is a leader in performing arts in AL.

What’s more, this theater company is a prominent force in educational programming for children and adults.

If you’d like to pay a visit to the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, there are a few things that might interest you.

For starters, the company offers workshops in playwriting, performing, theater etiquette, and even summer camps.

If you’d prefer to simply enjoy a show produced by the famed Alabama Shakespeare Festival, they put on up to six shows each year; so simply check the events calendar and secure your tickets before arriving in Montgomery.

If you’re wondering what to see in the way of performing arts, be sure to plan a visit to Alabama Shakespeare Festival.

Address: 1 Festival Dr, Montgomery, AL 36117, United States

8. Haunted Montgomery Tours

stockpexel / Shutterstock

Haunted Montgomery Tours is a colorful and unique way to get to know the city of Montgomery.

This fun and interesting tour recounts spooky historic tales while strolling through the city with a guide.

These chilling tours commence at nightfall when the ghosts come out to play.

Notably, reservations are required, weather-permitting, and it’s recommended that you wear sensible shoes as the majority of the tour is on foot.

One of the most quirky aspects of the tour is that parts take place in a hearse so be sure to buckle up.

Whether spookily enjoying the hearse ride or meandering about the city, you’ll be treated to stories and historical recountings by knowledgeable guides who will keep your interest piqued for the duration of the tour.

The tours are full of mystique and personality; as such, they’re a top thing to do today or this weekend.

Address: Montgomery, AL, United States

9. Blount Cultural Park

IVANNE / Shutterstock

Blount Cultural Park is a gleaming city park in Montgomery, Alabama with beautiful things to see and fun activities to do.

This beautiful park spreads across more than 75 acres of verdant landscape that provides the backdrop for an excellent time spent outdoors.

Of note, the park features miles worth of walking and biking trails, green open spaces, and lovely ponds.

Another big draw to the park is the incredible statuaries positioned at intervals throughout the park; they’re truly a sight to behold.

Moreover, the park is home to a theater, a dog park known as the Bark Park, and even a fine arts museum.

A wonderful place to have a picnic, throw around a ball, and read a book, Blount Cultural Park is one of the most picturesque places to go in Montgomery.

Another fun pastime in the park is photography; there are a variety of beautiful, natural settings that serve as the perfect backdrop for photo shoots.

Lastly, Blount Cultural Park is one of the top places to go to get outside in Montgomery.

10. Eastbrook Flea Market and Antique Mall

Eastbrook Flea Market and Antique Mall

One of the most unique shopping experiences in all of Montgomery, Eastbrook Flea Market and Antique Mall is an Alabama institution.

This 60,000-square-foot space is loaded with more than 300 vendors peddling all sorts of goods.

If you’re hoping to stumble upon exciting finds, this is the place; you never know what you might come across at the Eastbrook Flea Market and Antique Mall.

From antique furniture and fixtures to unique glassware and decor, the ever-changing stockpile of antiquities is worth a look.

Open seven days a week, today, tomorrow, or this weekend is a good time to visit the flea market.

Rare collectibles, vintage clothing and accessories, old books and records, and so much more are waiting for you at Eastbrook Flea Market and Antique Mall.

Locals and visitors alike rave about the awesome finds you’ll encounter at this mall.

So if you’re looking for a colorful shopping experience when you’re visiting Montgomery, be sure to visit Eastbrook Flea Market and Antique Mall.

Address: 425 Coliseum Blvd, Montgomery, AL 36109, United States

Exploring other areas of Alabama? Why not check out some of the things to do in Mobile, AL ?

11. Wilderness Park & Bamboo Forest

Wilderness Park & Bamboo Forest

Situated in Prattville, Alabama, near Montgomery, the Wilderness Park & Bamboo Forest is a great way to spend some time outdoors.

Though the park is small, the beautiful setting makes it worth visiting.

Notably, the park is fraught with gorgeous, 60-foot bamboo stalks that create a magical canopy over Wilderness Park & Bamboo Forest.

This forest of bamboo is exciting to explore or use as a backdrop for photography.

Woven within the fabric of this bamboo wonderland are unique trees and shrubs including the state’s second-largest Beech tree.

One of the coolest Montgomery attractions, Wilderness Park & Bamboo Forest is also home to lovely walking trails which happen to be dog-friendly.

Additionally, the park is home to a quaint frog pond that provides a serene setting for picnic lunches or reading a book.

A perfect way to spend a few hours in the morning or at twilight, this unique forest and park setting are worth checking out.

Address: 800 Upper Kingston Rd, Prattville, AL 36067, United States

12. Old Alabama Town

Madison Muskopf / Shutterstock

If you’re wondering what to do within the city limits of Montgomery, be sure to check out Old Alabama Town .

This historical AL landmark is a preserved neighborhood of 19th- and 20th-century abodes.

Reflective on the life and times of those Americans who were integral in the development of central Alabama, Old Alabama Town is like stepping into the pages of your history books.

Open weekends for self-guided tours, Old Alabama Town is an interesting historical site to tour.

Old Alabama Town is a walking tour through multiple structures, each of which gives new insight into the lives of Alabama’s forefathers.

The set comprises four city blocks worth of buildings and sights, which is far too much to see during one tour.

As such, tours of each street are given on a rotating weekly basis (a different city block each week).

That said, Old Alabama Town is the kind of attraction you can come to week after week for an all-new experience.

Address: 301 Columbus St, Montgomery, AL 36104, United States

13. Harriott II Riverboat

Kristi Blokhin / Shutterstock

The Harriott II Riverboat , an iconic Montgomery attraction, provides visitors with views of some of the most scenic places in the USA .

A perfect activity for couples seeking date night attractions, Harriott II Riverboat is a 19th-century boat docked near the popular Riverfront Park.

Providing scenic cruises along the Alabama River, the riverboat is serene, picturesque, and romantic.

Best of all, cruise tickets, which must be purchased in advance of your cruise, include great food, refreshing drinks, and live music.

If you’ll be celebrating a special event during your time aboard the Harriott II Riverboat, they have some great curated packages you may consider.

An anniversary package includes roses, balloons, and champagne, while birthday packages include balloons, cake, and party favors.

So whether you’re looking for a great date night attraction or the perfect way to celebrate a special occasion, the Harriott II Riverboat is worth considering.

Address: 200 Coosa St, Montgomery, AL 36104, United States

14. Alley Entertainment District

If you’re looking for things to do in Montgomery strictly for adults, be sure to spend some time in the Alley Entertainment District.

The Alley, which is likened to a New Orleans -style hub for entertainment, dining, and shopping, is a must-see.

Whether visiting during the day or at night, it’s one of the most popular hangs around Montgomery.

With restaurants aplenty, a bustling nightlife, unique shopping, and exhilarating entertainment, Alley Entertainment District is a must-do.

Notably, Alley Entertainment District is home to a bevy of diverse restaurants, many of them serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Moreover, the charming atmosphere makes The Alley an inviting place to stroll after a delectable meal.

Situated in the heart of the city’s downtown area, The Alley is near to so many wonderful hotspots, all within walking distance of one another.

For instance, The Alley Bar is a destination playground for adults looking to kick back with great drinks or dance the night away.

With so much to do in one central locale, it’s no wonder that locals and visitors alike swarm to Alley Entertainment District.

Address: 133 Tallapoosa St, Montgomery, AL 36104, United States

15. MOOseum

If you’re wondering what to do when visiting the city of Montgomery in the way of unique attractions and activities, you’ve just to go check out MOOseum .

This quirky museum celebrates, you guessed it, the livestock and cattle of AL.

It’s a place that showcases the lives, artifacts, and lifestyles of cowboys and cattle as well as the area’s colorful farming heritage.

Established in 1995, MOOseum is perfect for children and adults as it’s both educational and playful.

Of note, MOOseum is a hands-on museum with informative exhibits such as “From Pasture to Plate,” you’ll learn about the life cycle and food chain as it pertains to cattle.

Furthermore, you’ll learn all about beef byproducts and Alabama’s rich beef heritage.

There are dress-up stations for children that allow them to roleplay as a cowboy.

Finally, be sure to cap your tour off with a visit to the MOOseum General Store to pick up a charming souvenir.

Address: 201 S Bainbridge St, Montgomery, AL 36104, United States

Looking for more thrills around Alabama? Why not check out some of the things to do in Birmingham, AL ?

16. First White House of the Confederacy

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This historical landmark served as the home to President Jefferson Davis during his time as leader of the Confederacy.

Once the capital of the Confederation, Alabama was a governmental hub during the mid-to-late-1800s.

The White House itself is furnished with period pieces and perfectly preserved to reflect the times.

Visiting the First White House of the Confederacy is much like stepping back in time.

Located in downtown Montgomery, this museum is open on weekdays for self-guided tours.

On the first floor of the home, you’ll see the President’s bedroom with a gorgeous 1830s quilt, Mrs. Davis’s room, and more.

On the home’s second floor, you’ll come face to face with guest bedrooms, a nursery, 1800s clothing and textiles, photos, and other unique artifacts.

Finally, following your interior tour, you can meander the grounds of this beautiful 1835 estate.

Rich in history, picturesque architecture and landscaping, as well as historical tidbits aplenty all make a visit to the First White House of the Confederacy worth considering.

Address: 644 Washington Ave, Montgomery, AL 36130, United States

17. Coosa River Adventures

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Situated just outside of Montgomery, Coosa River Adventures is one of the coolest tourist attractions for outdoor enthusiasts.

If you or your travel group are fans of watersports, you won’t want to miss out on Coosa River Adventures.

This local establishment opened in 1995 and has the largest collection of water toys in Monty; they’re all available for rental or purchase.

With kayaks, canoes, standup paddle boards, and pedal-driven kayaks, there are so many fun options to choose from.

With your water toy rental, Coosa River Adventures provides transportation to your Coosa River launch site as well as life jackets.

What’s more, these water adventures are a great way to spend a day on the river; tours last from three to four hours, and reservations are required.

If you’re looking for something more adventurous, they even offer overnight tours on the Tallapoosa River; this tour is a whopping 51-mile adventure that will surely make incredible memories.

Address: 415 Company St, Wetumpka, AL 36092, United States

18. 1048 Jazz & Blues

If you’re thinking of what to do at night in Montgomery, be sure to check out 1048 Jazz & Blues .

One of the coolest places to visit for live music and great spirits, you won’t be disappointed.

Notably, 1048 Jazz & Blues hosts nightly musical acts that run the gamut from jazz to blues, rock to soul, and everything in between.

Best of all, the establishment has both indoor and outdoor seating so if you’re looking for an al fresco experience, this is your spot.

In addition to great live music, 1048 Jazz & Blues serves great mixed drinks and ice-cold beers.

Astoundingly, the bar hosts live acts seven days a week, 365 days a year.

Their website always has their entertainment calendar posted well in advance so you can scout out your favorite music genre before visiting.

Finally, 1048 Jazz & Blues boasts a super easygoing environment, an unassuming locale, and chill vibes that make the perfect setting for a nightcap.

Address: 1104 E Fairview Ave, Montgomery, AL 36106, United States

19. Montgomery Riverwalk Stadium

Home to the Montgomery Biscuits, the city’s best-loved minor league baseball team, a visit to Montgomery Riverwalk Stadium is one of the most fun things to do in Montgomery.

Riverwalk Stadium is a beautiful, open-air stadium that makes for a great day or night out with friends and family.

Best of all, the Biscuits have a full schedule beginning in early April and ending in October; as such, there are many times throughout the year that you can hope to catch a ball game.

Besides enjoying the excitement of a game, the stadium is a pretty fun place to hang out.

For starters, a Club Bar and other beer-garden-style stands serve ice cold brewskies.

There are also multiple food kiosks where you can purchase some of your favorite baseball items: think hot dogs and Cracker Jacks and then some.

Furthermore, the Biscuit Basket gift shop is a great place to pick up souvenirs and apparel.

There’s nothing like a day or night out at the ball game, so be sure to visit Montgomery Riverwalk Stadium when you’re in town.

20. The Legacy Museum

The Legacy Museum

One of the most insightful travel destinations in all of Montgomery, The Legacy Museum shares the forlorn history of slavery and racism in the US.

Situated amid some of the most atrocious historical sites in Alabama, the museum shares the stories of the Black Americans who were forced into slavery, made to work in bondage, mass incarcerated, auctioned like cattle, and well beyond.

Some of the museum’s exhibits showcase documents and artifacts from the Transatlantic Slave Trade while others provided detailed narratives from those with first-hand experience.

Stories of lynchings, segregation, unwarranted imprisonments, and many other atrocities of the Slave Era are all revealed in the museum.

A humbling though important segment of shared history, visiting the Legacy Museum is remarkable.

Situated adjacent to the museum is The National Memorial for Peace and Justice which is also an incredible sight to see.

Memorializing the African Americans who were brutally killed and lynched, the memorial is another humbling experience.

If you’ll be in AL, anytime soon, be sure to visit this noteworthy site.

Address: 400 N Court St, Montgomery, AL 36104, United States

Have more time? Why not check out some of the things to do in Gulf Shores, AL ?

21. Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Factory Tour

Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Factory Tour

If you’re scouring the web for ideas on what to do in Montgomery with car enthusiasts, look no further.

This automotive plant, situated in the heart of Monty, provides visitors with the unique opportunity to tour the plant and production lines.

The Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Factory is the place where the Hyundai Elantra, Santa Fe, Tucson, and Santa Cruz are all assembled.

A tour of the factory gives you a birdseye view of the assembly process, the interesting work that the factory workers do, and the mega equipment that’s used to do it all.

Unlike any other automotive tour in the country, the Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Factory Tour places you in a golf cart that zooms throughout the factory to learn about the different facets of assembling cars.

Reservations are required to book a tour and each tour is expertly guided by a Hyundai intellectual.

You’ll be whisked around to see a showroom of display cars, tour the plant, learn about the steps that are involved in assembling a car, and actually see a car being expertly assembled by giant robots.

Address: 700 Hyundai Blvd, Montgomery, AL 36105, United States

22. Montgomery Ballet

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A professional ballet company established in 1987, the Montgomery Ballet is one of the most beautiful things to see in AL.

Of note, the company is composed of professional local dancers that were plucked directly from the surrounding community.

Ballet productions take place throughout the year, so be sure to check out the event calendar to buy tickets before traveling to AL.

Truly, there’s nothing more magical than experiencing a live ballet performance.

If you’re more interested in dancing than spectating, the company hosts dance classes for children and adults alike.

Single class passes and class packages are available so you can take as few or as many classes as you’d like during your stay in Monty.

Furthermore, summer camps, led by company dancers, are also a fun thing to consider.

The ballet is surely a special thing to see, so consider a visit to this attraction when you’re in town.

Address: 1062 Woodley Rd, Montgomery, AL 36106, United States

23. Majestic Caverns

Majestic Caverns

One of the coolest places to visit in the South, Majestic Caverns is about an hour’s drive from Monty, however, it’s well worth the commute.

Open seven days a week, this attraction is a family fun spot with many attractions in one place.

Of note, Majestic Caverns is home to historic caverns wherein you can enjoy guided tours of an onyx room, a healing room, a natural waterfall, and a laser light show.

Boasting the most expansive site of naturally occurring onyx in the US, the caverns are an astounding sight to behold.

Furthermore, Majestic Caverns is also the site of unique live entertainment such as a magic show, forge demonstrations, a giant-bubble show, and fire juggling among other acts.

Other attractions at Majestic Caverns include a train ride, a maze trail, gemstone panning, rock wall climbing, mini-golf, an archery course, a splash pad, and many others.

With so many fun activities to do in one place, it’s no wonder travelers love to visit Majestic Caverns.

Address: 5181 Desoto Caverns Pkwy, Childersburg, AL 35044, United States

24. Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church

Named a National Historic Landmark in 1874, the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church is one of the most important historical things to see when visiting AL.

A beacon during the civil rights movement, the church was the site of activism, strife, historical moments, and so much more.

One of the church’s most notable attributes is that the famed Dr. Martin Luther King served as its pastor from 1954 to 1960.

Significantly, the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church is one of the coolest things to do in Montgomery.

The church welcomes visitors to enjoy guided tours as a way to step back in time.

If you’re inclined to worship at this place of God, you’re also welcome to do that during Sunday worship.

Furthermore, weekly Bible studies are another way to experience the vivacity of this historical place of worship.

A slice of AL history, the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church is a wonderful place to visit when you’re in town.

Address: 454 Dexter Ave, Montgomery, AL 36104, United States

25. Alabama Safari Park

Alabama Safari Park is one of the most exciting Montgomery attractions.

Of all the activities to consider when in town, this is the most thrilling adventure that you never have to leave your car for.

Alabama Safari Park is an astounding 350-acre park that you tour from the comfort of your very own vehicle.

During a drive-thru safari, you can safely interact with and even feed some of the area’s most amazing animals.

Speaking of animals, the park is home to giraffes, lemurs, llamas, watusi, and zebras to name a few.

Though much of the tour is taken from your car, there are also opportunities to get out and stretch your legs.

Namely, the Village Walk allows you to stroll among animal pens and come face to face with friendly beasts.

A sloth exhibit and anteater exhibit are other cool things to see at the park.

One of many unique things to do in Montgomery, you should definitely save space on your itinerary for Alabama Safari Park.

Address: 1664 Venable Rd, Hope Hull, AL 36043, United States

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26. Freedom Rides Museum

Once the site of the Greyhound Bus Depot, the Freedom Rides Museum is one of many interesting things to do in Montgomery.

More importantly, however, the museum is also the site of the infamous 1961 Freedom Rides Movement of the 1960s.

During this show of peaceful activism, African Americans defiantly and rightfully took their seats in the “whites only,” segregated sections of buses.

What’s more, the Freedom Rides Museum is now denoted as a stop on the US Civil Rights Trail.

To begin, beautiful memorials within the museum list all the brave Freedom Riders.

Sadly, many of the named riders were savagely attacked by a mob at the Greyhound Bus Depot as a result of their peaceful attempts to combat racial segregation.

Speaking of the bus depot, one of the coolest things to view at the museum is a preserved 1960s Greyhound bus.

Packed full of history about the civil rights movement, the Freedom Rides Museum is a must-see.

Address: 210 S Court St, Montgomery, AL 36104, United States

27. Eastdale Mall Ice Palace

Eastdale Mall Ice Palace

This year-round ice rink is literally and figuratively one of the coolest tourist attractions in town.

The perfect place for all your ice activities, Eastdale Mall Ice Palace offers an ice skating school, broom hockey, and bumper cars.

Whether looking for a place to cool off during the hot AL summers or seeking the perfect winter activity, this is the place for it all.

What’s even cooler than the ice rink and frozen activities is that the rink is surrounded by an epic shopping mall.

So when you’ve worn yourself out on the ice, the adjacent mall is a great place for light shopping or a bite to eat.

With so many wonderful things to do in Montgomery, narrowing down a game plan may seem daunting.

Be sure to make time for Eastdale Mall Ice Palace though.

Address: 1000 Eastdale Cir, Montgomery, AL 36117, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Montgomery

With so many wonderful things to experience in Montgomery, it’s no wonder you’re considering this city as your upcoming travel destination.

Montgomery attractions run the gamut from historical and cultural to relaxing and scenic.

If you’re looking for the most epic stuff to do in the quaint city of Montgomery, look no further.

Jot down a couple of spots from this expansive list and hit the road for the time of your life.

Happy travels.

The First White House of the Confederacy Montgomery, Ala

One of Montgomery's most historic homes,

Travel in time as you walk through this home furnished in the 1850's style.  this 1834 italianized home was built by mr. william sayre as his primary residence. sayre, served as an early city councilman, two term mayer, and helped build the railroad linking montgomery with mobile.  prior to 1861, consecutive  owners were  instrumental  in building the gas company, icehouse, montgomery's banking system, and an owner of one of montgomery's iron works factories. these owners were instrumental in modernizing montgomery into a bustling  antebellum city by 1861.   in the spring of 1861, the newly formed confederate government rented this home as an executive residence for president jefferson da vis  and his young family.   , hours of operation ​ monday-friday 8:00 am - 3:30 pm ​ open saturday 9:00 am - 3:00 pm​ tours are self guided. ​ admission is free, group tours.

Groups with more than 10 individuals need to make reservations at least two weeks prior to your arrival. Please call us with your reservation or if you have any questions.

We are located in historic Downtown Montgomery. 

644 Washington Avenue

Montgomery, Ala 36130

Phone: 334.242.1861

Email: [email protected]

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Things To Do In Montgomery

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In Montgomery, unique experiences are everywhere. Places where world-changing moments happened. It’s no surprise Men’s Journal named Montgomery a “best place to travel for the resilient, ever-optimistic traveler”. From world-class theate r and museums to first-class family entertainment at The Montgomery Biscuits , the city's minor league baseball team, and a fabulous zoo . There are even new rooftop hotspots to sit back, relax, and take in the sights and sounds of Montgomery’s vibrant nightlife .

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8 Moving Montgomery, Alabama Sites That Bring Black History To Life

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As the nation continues its annual celebration of Black History Month, anyone interested in learning could get quite an education with a visit to Montgomery, Alabama, which proudly proclaims itself as the birthplace of the civil rights movement.

There are countless historical sites to visit in Montgomery, Alabama’s state capital and its second-largest city, which is located on the Alabama River, about 150 miles north of the Gulf of Mexico.

Montgomery was home to Rosa Parks, Martin Luther King Jr., and other civil rights icons, and much of that history can be found in the city today.

“Montgomery provides visitors with an enlightened perspective that they can’t find anywhere else,” said Dawn Hathcock, Senior Vice President of the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce. “Our thought-provoking cultural and civil rights experiences remind us of how far we have come and inspire us to continue fighting for change.” Must-sees on a visit to Montgomery include:

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1. Rosa Parks Library And Museum

Located at 252 Montgomery Street, the Rosa Park Library and Museum is part of nearby Troy University. The museum chronicles her life and the incident during which Parks boarded a bus in December 1955 and refused to give up her seat. The museum was dedicated and opened exactly 45 years later to the day.

A permanent exhibit is on hand dedicated to the Montgomery Bus Boycott that followed Parks’ arrest.

Two other exhibits are currently on view in the museum, one dedicated to civil rights documents and photographs chosen by students, and a second that chronicles the struggles of African-Americans in the Jim Crow era.

The museum is open on weekdays for tours with strict COVID-19 restrictions; virtual tours via Zoom are also available.

Mccallk69 / Shutterstock

2. Rosa Parks Statue

For those seeking an outdoor alternative, a statue of Parks was unveiled in late December in downtown Montgomery at the corner of Moulton and Montgomery Streets. The location is where Parks was arrested. The bronze statue is dedicated to her courage and efforts in the civil rights movement.

Ron Cogswell / Flickr ( CC BY 2.0 )

3. Montgomery’s Civil Rights Memorial

Operated by the Southern Poverty Law Center, the Civil Rights Memorial is located at 400 Washington Avenue. It features a black granite table enshrined with the names of the martyrs and chronicles the history of the movement.

The memorial was designed by Maya Lin, the same artist who designed the Vietnam Veteran Memorial in Washington. It is designed as a contemplative area where visitors are encouraged to touch the names of those enshrined.

It is located just around the corner from the church where Martin Luther King Jr. preached during the Montgomery Bus Boycott and the State Capitol where the Selma to Montgomery voting rights march concluded in 1965.

Nagel Photography / Shutterstock

4. Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church

The church where Dr. King preached nearly seven decades ago is still home to an active congregation with regular Sunday shrives, Bible studies, Sunday school, and other activities. But the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church is also a National Historic Landmark.

Located at 454 Dexter Avenue, the church normally hosts tours. But since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, tours have been suspended. The exterior and some portions inside the church remain popular locations for photos.

5. The Legacy Museum

Located at 115 Coosa Street, T he Legacy Museum: From Enslavement to Mass Incarceration calls out racial inequality and racial injustice in the United States. It is located where slaves were once warehoused and one block from one of the busiest slave auction spaces in the country.

Opened in 2018, the museum chronicles slavery, lynchings, segregation, and racial hierarchy as well as current issues including mass incarceration and police violence.

Operated by the Equal Justice Initiative (EJI), admission to the museum is free, although there are strict coronavirus restrictions.

6. The National Memorial For Peace And Justice

Opened in conjunction with the Legacy Museum by the EJI, the National Memorial for Peace and Justice is a 6-acre park overlooking the city. Located at 417 Caroline Street, the memorial was built to be a sobering site where visitors can reflect on America’s history of racial injustice.

The memorial is filled with paintings, sculptures, and writings from people including Toni Morrison, Elizabeth Alexander, and Dr. King. At the center is a reflection space built in honor of Ida B. Wells.

7. Dexter Parsonage Museum

Located at 309 S. Jackson Street, the Dexter Parsonage Museum is the former home of Dr. King. The home where Dr. King and his family lived from 1954 to 1960 has been restored to the appearance it had when he lived there. Permanent exhibits are on hand, and tours are available.

Michael Gordon / Shutterstock

8. The Freedom Rides Museum

Located at 210 S. Court Street, the Freedom Rides Museum is dedicated to the story of the Freedom Riders, who forever changed Montgomery and other Southern cities. Their goal was to end racial segregation on public transportation with nonviolent protest.

Know Before You Go

There are countless other sites in Montgomery and neighboring towns that played a role in the civil rights movement, including restaurants, hotels and motels, and other businesses. All can be taken in as part of a trip to Alabama.

“The current social justice movement has ignited an overwhelming desire and demand for educational and purposeful travel,” Hathcock said. Montgomery certainly fulfills that demand. For additional inspiration, consider:

• Alabama Civil Rights Road Trip: Anniston To Selma
• 9 Fantastic Experiences In Historic Jackson, Mississippi
• Everything You Need To Know About The Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial In D.C.
• 8 Reasons To Make Tuscaloosa, AL Your Next Weekend Getaway

Greg Robertson has worked as an editor and writer for some of the top newspapers and websites in the country, leading him to live all across the country. He now calls Las Vegas home, but has journeyed from the sunshine of California and the rain in Seattle, to the humidity of Arkansas and the snow of Minnesota. His travels have taken him to Puerto Vallarta, Costa Rica, Spain, and the Dominican Republic, but he's happiest at home with his wife, two daughters, and dog.

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Downtown Centers

Museums & galleries, performance venues, historic sites, sports venues, hiking trails, malls & outlets.

There are numerous downtown centers filled with delicious bites, superb shopping, community events, and fun for the whole family.

Montgomery County offers a wide-range of museums that evoke exploration, discovery and learning.

Montgomery County is home to numerous state-of-the-art theatres and concert venues. From larger concert halls to intimate stages and local theatres, the county has what you need for the perfect night on the town.

Founded in 1776, Montgomery County has done an incredible job in preserving and sharing the history of the community. History buffs will delight in seeing the past come to life at these publicly accessible historical attractions in the area.

With more than 30 state-of-the-art venues, get ready to work up a sweat that these athletic venues in Montgomery County.

Whether you’re looking for a family fun night, a girls’ or guys’ night out or a romantic date night with live music; Montgomery County has got you covered.

From scenic lakes and wild animals, to hiking trails and whitewater kayaking, our many public parks have a lot to offer. Go out, explore, and you will be sure to have an adventure to last a lifetime!

Visit farms in the Ag Reserve in the spring for pick-your-own strawberries, blueberries, tart cherries, thornless blackberries, red raspberries, and tomatoes. In the fall, families head out to the pumpkin patch, and during the holidays, they cut fresh trees.

Lace-up your hiking shoes and get ready to explore the many trails in Montgomery County.

Whether you’re a trendsetting fashionista or a sartorial bargain hunter, Montgomery County has a wide number of shopping destinations that suit any style and budget.

As one of the most popular activities Montgomery County has to offer, there are nine unique golf courses to choose from across the county.

These Montgomery County businesses are brewing, fermenting, and distilling some of the best local libations in the state of Maryland!

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Scene of Black students and Trump at Chick-fil-A may be more than meets the eye

“I don’t care what the media tells you, Mr. Trump. We support you," said Michaelah Montgomery, who hugged Trump during the recent stop in Atlanta.

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After former President Donald Trump greeted some young Black students during a Chick-fil-A visit in Atlanta, Democratic strategists are throwing cold water on any suggestions that the viral moment signals broader support for him among young Black voters. 

“I don’t think that changes the established norm that Donald Trump has an agenda that’s pretty hostile to Black folks overall,” Joel Payne, a Democratic strategist, told theGrio. “It doesn’t mean that every African-American voter will feel that way. That doesn’t mean that there aren’t outlier opinions that exist.”

On Wednesday, Trump dropped in at a Chick-fil-A restaurant near Atlanta’s prominent HBCUs: Spelman College, Morehouse College, Clark Atlanta University, and Morris Brown College. The Republican presidential candidate, who faces four criminal indictments – including one in Atlanta prosecuted by Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis – greeted the mostly young, Black customers and workers.

The former president, who purchased milkshakes for the young patrons, was met with smiles and glee, including from Michaelah Montgomery, who told him, “I don’t care what the media tells you, Mr. Trump, we support you.” Trump then offered to hug Montgomery, who later declared, “Tell my momma I made it!” 

According to her LinkedIn account, Montgomery graduated from Clark Atlanta in 2020 and is the founder of Conserve the Culture, a conservative grassroots group. She appeared to suggest to Fox News on Friday that the students at the Chick-fil-A were part of her organization.

Though the planned Trump visit (the Chick-fil-A chain is owned by one of his golf club members) garnered a lot of social media attention, political experts say it doesn’t change the facts about Trump’s standing with Black voters.

“I don’t want to overblow a minor viral moment inside of a Chick-fil-A in Atlanta and make it seem like … Donald Trump is winning Black people,” said Tolulope Kevin Olasanoye, executive director of the Democratic Party of Georgia. “He didn’t get a lot of Black people in 2020. He didn’t get that many Black people in 2016. He ain’t gonna get that many Black people in 2024.”

Though some polls last year indicated that Trump was gaining upwards of 22% among Black voters in key battleground states, a recent poll conducted by Pew Research Center found that only 12% of Black voters say they support the Republican Party. According to Pew, Trump earned 8% of the Black vote in 2020. 

However, several polls also indicate a decline in Black voter support for President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, primarily due to their feelings about the economy and the Biden-Harris administration’s foreign policy in support of Israel’s war against Hamas in Gaza. 

“We’ve just got to be talking about this stuff in a real way that gets people to remind themselves about what the real record of the Trump presidency is [and] what the real record of the Biden presidency is,” said Olasanoye. 

Reecie Colbert, a political strategist and host of “The Reecie Colbert Show” on Sirius XM, told theGrio that while she doesn’t “begrudge” the excitement displayed toward Trump by some of the Black students in Atlanta, it may speak to a segment of young Black voters who are being “targeted by disinformation [and] misinformation.”

Some of that misinformation is coming from rap culture, said Colbert, who noted that Montgomery referred to the rapper Lil Baby’s song “4PF.”

“I think her referencing that kind of taps into some of these rappers who have been perpetuating this notion that Trump gave us stimmies [stimulus checks] and gave us money when the actual opposite is true,” she noted. “We saw Black businesses shutter, we saw Black unemployment surge, we saw a lot of Black wealth wiped out.” 

By contrast, said Colbert, during the Biden-Harris administration, which also issued stimulus checks through the American Rescue Plan two months into office, there has been a persistent record low Black unemployment and a significant comeback for small Black businesses . 

She added, “And don’t forget the fact that the child tax credit cut Black child poverty in half for the year that that was in existence.” 

Colbert said despite the numbers, there remains an “appeal” for Trump that perpetuates the “false idea that he was an economic boon for the country and Black people.”

There’s also the celebrity factor of Trump, noted Payne, who was the director of paid Black media for former Sen. Hillary Clinton’s 2016 presidential election. 

“There is something about fame that kind of washes over people, and that allows folks to either forget or to compartmentalize the other things that are there, and that’s something unique about Trump,” he said. “I think his fame and name brand do have some kind of an outsized impact on their view of him. But I think it would be unfair to characterize that as a quality only to Black voters.”

Payne said Democrats will have to “persuade” young Black voters rather than simply motivating them to “turn out” like in years past. 

“What’s more important to do is continue to put the case in front of large numbers of African-American voters, of young African-American voters, to remind them of the reality of what the Trump presidency was,” he said. “To remind them of things that they may have forgotten.”

“This is a party that stood in the way of young Black voters having student loans forgiven,” Olasanoye said of the Republican Party. “This is a party that doesn’t agree with the younger Black voters on climate justice.”

Trump, he argued, is not running an “issues-based campaign … by any stretch of the imagination.” He added, “I don’t believe what Donald Trump says, I believe what he does, and I think that Black people should do so too.”

Olasanoye said the challenge for Democrats is that “we’re not talking about this in a way that’s resonating with people, and particularly not with Black voters.” He continued, “We’ve got to do it fast because there’s only 207 days left until the most important election of our lifetimes.”

He added, “If we lose that election, it’s because we didn’t tell our own story. We have nobody to blame but ourselves.”

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8 of the most historic places to spend the night in West Virginia

C LARKSBURG, W.Va. (WBOY) — West Virginia history has become a tourism draw for many. From historic ritzy hotels to converted fire towers , West Virginia has lots of overnight rentals that take you back in time.

Here are a few of our favorites. In general, this list goes from most to least grand, so if you’re looking for a more humble piece of history, read the list from the bottom up.

Greenbrier Hotel in White Sulphur Springs

When it comes to old, swanky hotels, the Greenbrier, “America’s Resort,” is about as fancy as it gets in West Virginia. The resort in White Sulphur Springs has been operating for more than 200 years, and the Greenbrier building as we know it today has been standing since the 1930s. The grounds have served as a hospital for soldiers during the Civil War and World War II, and after reopening as a hotel in 1948, the U.S. Government Emergency Relocation Center , a bomb shelter capable of housing Congress, was built there during the Cold War.

Now owned by West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice, the resort is considered one of the fanciest places to stay in the state. Accommodations from full wings to suites, to cottages, to more simple guest rooms are available. All the rooms are decorated with Dorothy Draper’s Modern Baroque style of décor and are definitely a step back in time.

Earlier this year, it was voted one of the most beautiful hotels in the United States .

Blennerhassett Hotel in Parkersburg

The Blennerhassett Hotel has been operating since 1889 and was built to be the fanciest hotel in the state. It was meant to be a place where the millionaires of the day could stay amid Parkersburg’s oil and gas boom. It is believed to be the first building in Parkersburg that had functional modern-day electricity, according to the hotel’s website .

The rooms in the Blennerhassett are designed in a European style with elegant jewel tones that drew presidents and other famous guests, and the restaurant is considered one of the best fine dining experiences in the area.

Because of its long history, some claim the Blennerhassett Hotel is haunted, and several ghosts have reportedly been spotted in various parts of the hotel .

Country Inn of Berkeley Springs

The current Country Inn sits on 10 lots, several of which are historically significant. One lot was the site of a lodging house where George Washington stayed in 1784 and another was owned by James Smith, who signed the Declaration of Independence. A 500-room resort was built on part of the current property in the 1840s. The building was destroyed in a fire in 1898 but was rebuilt in 1932. Although the inn’s name has changed several times, it has become a landmark in Berkeley Springs.

Although the rooms are updated, they still have a vintage feel of historic charm.

General Lewis Inn in Lewisburg

Built in the early 1800s, the General Lewis Inn was owned by the namesake of Lewisburg and has been operating as a hotel since 1929. The Hock family, who owned the inn at that time, spent years collecting antiques to decorate it, gravitating to pieces that were from the 1800s. The decoration is still inspired heavily by the 1920s, and the guest rooms are completely unique, even down to their West Virginia-inspired names.

Graceland Inn in Elkins

Graceland recently reopened for the first time since COVID . The Victorian mansion was originally built by Sen. Henry Gassaway Davis in 1893 during Elkins’ railroad boom. It sits on top of the hill on Davis & Elkins College’s campus and has one of the best views in the city. It fell into major disrepair and was fully renovated into an inn in the 1990s. Now, it has 10 guest rooms and a newly opened restaurant.

At 16,000 square feet, it is rivaled only by its neighbor Halliehurst Mansion, which was the home of Sen. Stephen Benton Elkins and now houses the administrative office for the college. Both buildings are part of the Davis and Elkins Historic District which is considered a National Historic Landmark .

Stonehouse Bed & Breakfast in Harpers Ferry

Although not as grand as some of the other hotels on this list, the Stonehouse is the only bed and breakfast located in Harpers Ferry’s Historic Lower Town. The building is from 1839 and has five different rooms, and although it’s in a national historic park and the rooms do have a certain vintage charm, it promises “a doily-free environment,” according to its website . “The New Room” includes a balcony that give you a view of the Potomac River, B&O and Winchester and Potomac railroad bridges and Maryland Heights.

Cass Company Houses

The town of Cass remains almost completely unchanged since it was founded in 1901, according to West Virginia State Parks, even down to its accommodations. Cass was built as a logging town with identical homes for company workers to live in. The restored Company Houses are available to rent with 3, 4 or 5 bedrooms through the West Virginia Parks website . There are at least 19 Company Houses that are available, ranging from $156 to $216 per night on average.

Thorny Mountain Fire Tower in Seneca State Forest

If you’re scared of heights, this stay is not for you. In the Seneca State Forest in Pocahontas County, the Thorny Mountain Fire Tower has been an overnight rental since 2015. The tower was originally part of a series of lookout towers used to spot fires in West Virginia’s remote forests . However, they stopped being used in the 1970s, and most of the nearly 100 towers in the state have either been torn down or fallen into disrepair.

Stays in the Thorny Mountain Fire Tower start at about $115 but usually sell out up to a year in advance. In the Monongahela National Forest, the Red Oak Fire Tower is currently under construction and is expected to open as an overnight rental as soon as 2025.

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