Montgomery AlabamaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Montgomery, Alabama.
1. Legacy Museum
CIVIL RIGHTS HISTORY EXHIBIT
The Legacy Museum offers a comprehensive exploration of the history of racial injustice in America, focusing on the legacy of slavery, segregation, and mass incarceration. Exhibits combine first-person narratives, historical artifacts, and immersive media installations to educate visitors on critical moments in civil rights history. Located in downtown Montgomery, the museum is a pivotal stop for understanding the city's role in the broader struggle for justice.
2. Rosa Parks Library and Museum
CIVIL RIGHTS TRIBUTE MUSEUM
The Rosa Parks Library and Museum commemorates the life and legacy of Rosa Parks, whose refusal to give up her bus seat sparked the Montgomery Bus Boycott. Exhibits feature interactive displays, historic artifacts, and a children's wing that brings the civil rights movement to life. The museum is located on the site of Parks' fateful arrest, offering an essential educational experience to visitors of all ages.
3. National Memorial for Peace and Justice
HISTORIC MEMORIAL SITE
The National Memorial for Peace and Justice is a powerful outdoor monument dedicated to the victims of racial terror lynchings in the United States. The memorial's striking steel columns and thought-provoking exhibits offer a space for reflection and remembrance. It stands alongside a companion museum, deepening visitors' understanding of America's history of racial violence.
4. Dexter Parsonage Museum – Dr. Martin Luther King Home
KING'S MONTGOMERY RESIDENCE
The Dexter Parsonage Museum preserves the restored home where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. lived while serving as pastor of Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church. Visitors tour the residence, viewing period furnishings and personal artifacts from King's life. Informative guides share stories about the King family and their pivotal role in the civil rights movement.
5. First White House of the Confederacy
HISTORIC GOVERNMENT MANSION
The First White House of the Confederacy was home to President Jefferson Davis during the early months of the Confederacy. Today, the mansion showcases period furnishings, memorabilia, and artifacts from the Civil War era. Its central location and guided tours give visitors insight into the city's complex Civil War history.
6. Alabama Safari Park
DRIVE-THROUGH WILDLIFE PARK
Alabama Safari Park is a 350-acre drive-through safari adventure located just outside Montgomery in Hope Hull. Visitors can encounter and feed exotic animals like zebras, giraffes, and bison from the comfort of their own vehicles. The park also offers a petting zoo and interactive animal experiences for families.
7. Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church
HISTORIC CIVIL RIGHTS SITE
Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church is renowned as the church where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. began his pastoral career and helped lead the Montgomery Bus Boycott. The church's historic sanctuary and informative tours provide context for its role in the civil rights movement. Its location, just steps from the Alabama State Capitol, underscores its significance.
8. Montgomery Zoo
FAMILY-FRIENDLY ANIMAL PARK
The Montgomery Zoo is a popular destination featuring over 500 animals from five continents, housed in naturalistic habitats. Children can enjoy themed play areas, a petting zoo, and educational encounters with wildlife. The zoo's picturesque setting and accessible trails make it ideal for family visits.
9. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts
FREE ART MUSEUM
The Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts hosts a distinguished collection of American art, Southern masterpieces, and contemporary exhibitions. The museum offers engaging educational programs, hands-on activities for children, and rotating special exhibits. With free admission and lush park surroundings, it attracts art lovers and families alike.
10. Old Alabama Town
RESTORED HISTORIC VILLAGE
Old Alabama Town is a collection of more than 50 restored historic buildings showcasing life in 19th- and early 20th-century Alabama. Guided tours lead visitors through authentic homes, schools, shops, and churches, each furnished to reflect its era. The site provides an immersive journey into Montgomery's architectural and cultural heritage.
11. Alabama Shakespeare Festival
PROFESSIONAL THEATER COMPANY
The Alabama Shakespeare Festival is a leading regional theater that produces classic plays, contemporary works, and family-friendly performances year-round. Its state-of-the-art playhouse is nestled within the scenic Blount Cultural Park. The festival draws theatergoers from across the region, offering a world-class cultural experience in Montgomery.
12. The Montgomery Biscuits
MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL
The Montgomery Biscuits are the city's beloved minor league baseball team, playing home games at Riverwalk Stadium. Fans enjoy lively games, family-friendly promotions, and local food vendors at one of the South's most charming ballparks. The stadium's riverfront location and festive atmosphere make it a top choice for sports lovers.
13. The MOOseum
FAMILY-FRIENDLY CATTLE EXHIBIT
The MOOseum offers interactive and educational exhibits about Alabama's cattle industry, making it a favorite spot for families with children. Young visitors can dress up as cowboys, explore hands-on activities, and learn about cattle breeds and beef production. The museum provides a playful yet informative perspective on one of the state's key agricultural sectors.
14. Central
UPSCALE SOUTHERN DINING
Central is a celebrated restaurant housed in a renovated warehouse, offering contemporary Southern cuisine with a farm-to-table emphasis. Diners enjoy creative dishes in a stylish, urban atmosphere that highlights the culinary diversity of Montgomery. The venue's lively ambiance and acclaimed menu make it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.
15. EastChase Shopping Center
PREMIER RETAIL DESTINATION
EastChase Shopping Center is a large open-air mall featuring national retailers, specialty shops, and diverse dining options. Shoppers find everything from high-end fashion to local boutiques and convenient services. Its modern design and regular special events draw both locals and visitors seeking a premier retail experience.