montgomery alabama travel guide

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

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The Ultimate Travel Guide to Montgomery, Alabama

I was recently invited on a media trip to Montgomery, Alabama. Follow along for the best eats and sights in this southern destination!

I never thought I would make it to the Montgomery area, but it has long been on my radar for good food and fun. I have a friend who lives nearby in Birmingham, and I thought it would be a great place to visit for a girlfriends foodie trip.

Spoiler alert : It did not disappoint. Between the unique restaurants and craft beer to the historic museums and monuments, you can see the city of Montgomery changing day by day. It is not what I would have expected before visiting, and now I can't wait to go again. The charm of downtown and being able to walk to the Riverfront or to a baseball game at the Biscuits stadium before heading to the historic church that Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. spoke at, is powerful and positive.

Where to Eat and Drink

The Capitol Oyster Bar is a local institution and can't be missed, and it definitely reminded me of some of my favorite restaurants from here in Florida. Located on the river, you can get your favorite fried seafood paired with an ice cold beer. It's a no-frills spot to enjoy  the best seafood in the city while overlooking Downtown Montgomery and the Alabama River. Plus, the service was fantastic. Find it on 617 Shady Street.

Have breakfast at Cahawba House for a low-key breakfast with locally sourced ingredients. The beignets are famous!    Stop by at 31 South Court Street.

Don't miss coffee at  Prevail Union . I loved this spot on our last morning in town. I had an iced coffee in a beautifully inspiring location while I chatted with a friend. I would definitely come back, and I'm secretly wishing I had more adorable coffee spots like this in my own town.

Established in 2016, Prevail Union Montgomery is the second “union” iteration of the Prevail Family. Prevail Union is a craft coffee shop focusing on delivering fresh roasted coffee and unique drinks while in a comfortable environment. We work with and care deeply about our farmers and work with like-minded producers all over the world to source incredible coffee's, grown with pride and patient respect for our Earth. Find Prevail at 39 Dexter Ave #102. 

One of the best meals of our trip was at Central on  129 Coosa Street.  Central is an upscale casual restaurant and event venue, located in the heart of Montgomery’s Downtown entertainment district. Central is proud to be the #1 rated restaurant in Montgomery, AL on TripAdvisor and the 2018 OpenTable Diners' Choice Award recipient for the fourth year in a row. And, I can see why.

The ambiance is welcoming and exciting with a unique cocktails menu and delicious entrees to choose from. It's not a surprise that their social media handles tout their recent visits from celebrities like Stephen King, Will Ferrell, and Evander Holyfield. It's the spot that you want to go to to see what is on the menu.

I couldn't pass up the scallops, and I would be lying if I didn't say this was the best meal I've had in months. I'm still dreaming about the wine pairing and the attentive service.

For more dining options, visit Cloverfield nearby. We went to Vintage Year, Vintage Cafe, and Filet & Vine. I've got a full review over on my post about the neighborhood Cloverfield here.

Don't miss local craft beer.

Whenever I visit a new city, I always look for the nearest brewery. I was very excited to meet the owners and sample the brews at Common Bond . It is a new brewery that is part of the city's revitalization, and I love the space! Stop by  424 Bibb St Suite #150 for a flight!

Don't miss the Rosa Parks Museum at 252 Montgomery Street. We were not able to take photographs inside the museum, but I truly appreciated the interactive exhibits and being able to see the spot where it all started.

Another highlight is the Legacy Museum and the National Memorial for Peace and Justice . Commit to spending half a day exploring each spot and fully absorbing the material. It is both somber yet important to the history and future of our country. 

We also spent half a day at both the  Dexter Avenue Church and the Dexter Avenue Parsonage . The tour guides are what make these historical sites worthwhile. Getting to know the insider of a city from its residents and local historians can help paint the full picture of the Montgomery era and its role in the Civil Rights Movement. Reading about these events in history books can only teach you so much. Actually seeing, hearing, and being inside some of these places makes it real.

The Fitzgerald Museum was a beautiful spot to walk through. I adored the decor and was amazed to see that it also rents out its apartments via Airbnb!

Don't miss the free Montgomery Art Museum and Sculpture Garden and check the schedule to see if there is a Montgomery Biscuits game. Minor league baseball (along with local craft beer) is always one of my top things to do whenever I travel.

Be sure to walk the Riverfront and explore the beauty near the Capitol building.

Where to Stay

Want a river of the river? Book a stay at the  Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa at the Convention Center located at  201 Tallapoosa Street. Honestly, this was the best property that would be ideal for a couples getaway or quick girls night out. It is located within walking distance to many of the spots we talked about in this guide including Central. You can walk to the museums, have a drink on the roof near the pool, and just kick back and relax! But you don't have to stay here, you can find your ideal accommodation yourself with  cozycozy.com . This search engine compares the different options for you, so you don't have to browse through different websites to find what's on offer.

Learn more about Montgomery, Alabama on Facebook , Twitter , and Instagram . Follow #MyMGM for all the fun!

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Visitor Center

Montgomery has always been on a journey, pushing ahead to a brighter future. No matter who you are or where you are from, there is a journey for you that begins here. You're invited to explore our uniquely compelling city and discover all the ways Montgomery will make your own story even more rich and exciting. Here are five reasons to visit Montgomery's new visitor center and learn about all the capital city has to offer. 

Montgomery Visitor Center Merch

You can't visit the capital city without something to show for it! Hang out and shop in our new Visitor Center, where you can find one-of-a-kind t-shits, mugs, hats…

The Hospitable Staff

Our Visitor Center Specialists are your best source for enjoying Montgomery to the fullest! We offer Visitor Guides, maps, dining recommendations, rack cards, and…

Mural Photo-Op

No adventure is complete until it has been documented! Get ready to pose for the perfect post in front of the colorful Visitor Center mural that captures the city's…

Catch A 360 Degree Tour

With more than a dozen landmarks in walking distance of the visitor center, Visitor Experience Specialists will guide you through the heart of downtown. The quick…

A Place to Begin Your Journey

The best part about traveling is the journeys you get to take. Stop by, refresh with complimentary water, rest your feet, and let our Experience Specialists guide…

Montgomery Visitor Center 1 Court Square Montgomery, Al 36104 334-262-0013

Trip Ideas & Itineraries

From fun getaways for singles, couples, and friends, to history-filled itineraries and family/group tours, you’ll…

Explore Montgomery

Plan your trip to montgomery: best of montgomery tourism.

Essential Montgomery

Montgomery Is Great For

Historical tours.

Self-guided Tours

Eat & drink

• Drury Inn & Suites Montgomery
• Hampton Inn & Suites Montgomery-EastChase
• Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa at the Convention Center
• Embassy Suites by Hilton Montgomery Hotel & Conference Center
• Staybridge Suites Montgomery - Downtown, an IHG Hotel
• Dreamland BBQ
• Baumhower's Victory Grille
• Vintage Year
• Wintzell's Oyster House
• Legacy Museum
• National Memorial for Peace and Justice
• Dexter Parsonage Museum - Dr. Martin Luther King home
• Rosa Parks Library and Museum
• Riverfront Park
• Montgomery Civil Rights Walk of Freedom Self Guided (GPS) Walking Tour
• Sip-n-Cycle Pedal Cruise in Montgomery
• 3hr Private Driving Civil Rights Tour
• Private 6 Hour Tour of Selma and Montgomery Civil Rights Sites
• Montgomery City Multi-Attraction Pass

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The Berger Bungalow

Atlanta-based Travel and Lifestyle Blog

July 10, 2019 / Uncategorized

48 Hours in Montgomery, Alabama: Travel Guide

Located less than three hours from Atlanta, Montgomery, Alabama is a fantastic town to travel to for historical significance, a quick growing downtown area (with fantastic food), and Southern charm. Ian and I traveled to Montgomery for 48 hours and I wanted to share all about what we did with you. Also, here is our YouTube video recap (check out the cool murals!):

48 Hours in Montgomery, Alabama

Where to stay:.

One thing that I absolutely loved about Montgomery is the fact that it is so walkable. Sure, it was hot and there were hills, but almost everything was in the same general downtown area, which was great. Our hotel, the Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa at the Convention Center was a great home base when it came to everything that we did. Honestly, we probably could have walked to 80% or maybe more of the things we did, but it was a rainy weekend and we did not want to risk getting caught in the rain.

The hotel itself was beautiful! In the lobby, you can find cold water infused with fruit at all times, the AC was blasting (very necessary in Alabama!), the staff were all so friendly and helpful, and the rooms were very spacious and comfortable.

If you have read my hotel reviews in the past, you should know that my biggest pet peeve is when they do not refresh your water bottles that are provided in the room. Well, I’m happy to let you all know that the Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa did, indeed refresh the water bottles. I know, I know – this seems like such a small touch, but when you travel like Ian and I do and want to see everything that a city has to offer, you are parched at the end of each day and a fresh bottled water is just so nice to have.

The Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa really was the perfect place to stay. It was clean, comfortable, accommodating, and in the center of most of the things that you will do when traveling to the area!

Where to eat:

This is my favorite section in each travel guide I write – the food is what makes or breaks a city, in my opinion, and we were very pleased with the restaurant options that Montgomery had to offer! Here is everything we tried:

• Capitol Oyster Bar :

Capitol Oyster Bar was probably my favorite place (or at least one of my favorite places). Overlooking the Alabama River, Capitol Oyster Bar definitely has the freshest and best seafood in the area. We started with raw oysters (I did not have any, but Ian said they were amazing!) and then ordered the combination platter and frog legs for our main entrees.

I cannot speak about the frog legs personally (once again, Ian said they were amazing), but the combination platter was everything I have ever dreamed about. It reminded me of something that I would find at Safe Harbor, which is my favorite seafood restaurant in Mayport, Florida. It comes with shrimp, oysters, and scallops and let me tell you – the scallops were to die for. Buttery, juicy, and so tender. Just perfectly executed and I highly recommend ordering some for yourself.

• Prevail Union Coffee :

You have probably seen Prevail on my Instagram multiple times because it was so insanely good. Ian ordered the Alabama Stinger multiple times and I loved the HVR latte, which was filled with honey, vanilla, and raspberry. Prevail Union Coffee is located in the Kress building, which I highly recommend checking out while you’re in the area!

• Vintage Year :

Vintage Year is one of the places that I would probably recommend driving to instead of walking. According to their website, “Vintage Year is dedicated to providing guests with the finest hand-cut meats, freshest seafood, outstanding wines and spirits along with excellent customer service.” That was definitely true, in our experience. I ordered the special for dinner and Ian ordered the most amazing yellowfin tuna dish with black rice, coconut mirin, squash blossom, + an arugula ginger and radish shower. We also ordered caesar salads while we were there and the white anchovies that came on top were perfect!

Leroy was the coolest bar ever – with the best drinks. Basically, you cannot go wrong with absolutely anything you order there.

• Renaissance Hotel:

We had breakfast at the Renaissance Hotel one morning while in town and it was great! It was a buffet, but they also had an omelette station and everything was so fresh. I ordered lots of bacon, fruit, coffee, and an omelette, which was definitely my pregnant dream meal at the time (especially the fruit and bacon!).

• Dreamland :

First opened in Tuscaloosa, AL, Dreamland is one of the most authentic Southern Bar-B-Que experiences that you can find. there are ten Dreamland locations and they actually have one about 30-40 minutes from our house, but we had to try it out in Alabama while we were visiting and boy was it good! We ordered pulled pork, fried okra, mac & cheese, and big cups of sweet tea, but we saw another table get an order of ribs and that will definitely be our next taste there when we go back!

If you stay at the Renaissance Hotel while in Montgomery, Central will be extremely close to you and you will definitely want to check it out. Central is rated as the #1 restaurant in Montgomery on TripAdvisor. In addition, it was also the 2019 OpenTable Diner’s Choice Award recipient for the fourth year in a row. Central was another favorite restaurant find of ours. We ordered the pimento cheese and cajun seafood corn dogs (so unique and good!) for appetizers, Ian had the Ribeye, and I had the hanger steak with spring corn, blistered shisito peppers, pickled red onion, and a chimichurri sauce. SO. GOOD. Since it was our last night in Montgomery, we also just had to order dessert, so we ordered the Chef’s Doughnuts which were drool-worthy.

• Cahawba House :

I’ll admit it – Cahawba house might be intimidating to pronounce at first glance, but RUN, don’t walk to grab some breakfast or lunch from this low-key restaurant. Cahawba House services locally-sourced, Southern classics and not only is it super casual and fun to dine at, but it is very affordable, as well. We ordered biscuits and they were amaaaazing.

• Common Bond Brewers :

Common Bond Brewers is not only a great place to grab a drink in between museums or meals, but it’s also a great place to cool off and mingle with people. Ian had a few flights over the long weekend that we spent in Montgomery and I tried a few sips of his beer here and there and they were GREAT. They had just released a new sour while we were visiting and it was fantastic!

Although we did not try these places, here are a few others that were on our list that we did not get to:

• Martin’s: According to them, Martin’s has been in business since the 1930’s and is a family-owned and operated restaurant serving a meat and three style lunch.
• Chris’ Hot Dogs: Who doesn’t love a good dog?! We almost made our way to Chris’, but didn’t realize that they were closed on Sunday’s!

What to do:

Goodness – if you are traveling to Montgomery, you will have SO much to do. Honestly, your options are endless. More than likely, you have traveled here for the amazing museums and historical sites and I do not blame you one bit because they are amazing. Here are a few of my recommendations:

• Rosa Parks Museum :

I thought I knew a lot about Rosa Parks, but I was wrong. While visiting the museum, I learned so much about what actually happened (compared to what they teach you briefly in school). The Rosa Parks Museum includes a permanent exhibit, a time machine, temporary exhibit, archives, and more.

• Dexter Ave. Church :

This was definitely one of my favorite things that we did while in Montgomery! The Dexter Ave. Church tour was not only education, but it was just really fun and positive, as well. Honestly, the message you will receive comes down to being the best person that you can be to not only yourself, but those around you. It was amazing. You have to go to experience what I am talking about, but you will leave with a massive smile plastered on your face, I can guarantee that. If you go to Montgomery and only have time for two things, this would definitely be one of the places I recommend visiting.

• Hank Williams Gravesite:

We were not originally going to go to the Hank Williams Gravesite, but I am glad we did. It is a really unique spot and has an amazing view! Also, the actual gravesite was pretty cool to see, but you really only need about 15 minutes here, or so.

• Montgomery Curb Market:

Most of you probably know that my love of farmers markets runs deep. Ian and I try to go to our local market at least once or twice a month, if not more, but the Montgomery Curb Market blows our market away – it was so cool to see! Ian got lucky that we went right before we visited The Legacy Museum, or I probably would have left with quite a few goodies.

• The Legacy Museum :

I cannot rave about The Legacy Museum enough and after quite a time to process everything that we saw and experienced that day, I am still not sure that I can properly explain how amazing our experience really was. Every school should be taking field trips here and every family should bring their children and other family members to really learn about slavery and mass incarceration. The Legacy Museum is a block from one of the most prominent slave auction spaces in America and just steps away from an Alabama dock and rail station where tens of thousands of black people were trafficked during the 19th century.

The Legacy Museum was definitely the most moving experience that we had while in Montgomery. I did not see a single person leave the museum without tears rolling down their cheeks and those tears started not even five minutes into our experience visiting the museum. Because I do not think that I can properly describe our experience and how moving it truly was, I want to include a quote from the EJI website:

“EJI believes that the history of racial inequality and economic injustice in the United States has created continuing challenges for all Americans, and more must be done to advance our collective goal of equal justice for all. The United States has done very little to acknowledge the legacy of slavery, lynching, and racial segregation. As a result, people of color are disproportionately marginalized, disadvantaged and mistreated. The American criminal justice system is compromised by racial disparities and unreliability that is influenced by a presumption of guilt and dangerousness that is often assigned to people of color. For more than a decade, EJI has been conducting extensive research into the history of racial injustice and the narratives that have sustained injustice across generations. Our new museum is the physical manifestation of that research.

The Legacy Museum:  From Enslavement to Mass Incarceration opened to the public on April 26, 2018, in Montgomery, Alabama. The 11,000-square-foot museum is built on the site of a former warehouse where enslaved black people were imprisoned, and is located midway between an historic slave market and the main river dock and train station where tens of thousands of enslaved people were trafficked during the height of the domestic slave trade. Montgomery’s proximity to the fertile Black Belt region, where slave-owners amassed large enslaved populations to work the rich soil, elevated Montgomery’s prominence in domestic trafficking, and by 1860, Montgomery was the capital of the domestic slave trade in Alabama, one of the two largest slave-owning states in America.

The Legacy Museum employs unique technology to dramatize the enslavement of African Americans, the evolution of racial terror lynchings, legalized racial segregation and racial hierarchy in America. Relying on rarely seen first-person accounts of the domestic slave trade, EJI’s critically acclaimed research materials, videography, exhibits on lynching and recently composed content on segregation, this museum explores the history of racial inequality and its relationship to a range of contemporary issues from mass incarceration to police violence.

Visitors encounter a powerful sense of place when they enter the museum and confront slave pen replicas, where you can see, hear, and get close to what it was like to be imprisoned awaiting sale at the nearby auction block. First-person accounts from enslaved people narrate the sights and sounds of the domestic slave trade. Extensive research and videography helps visitors understand the racial terrorism of lynching, and the humiliation of the Jim Crow South.  Compelling visuals and data-rich exhibits give visitors the opportunity to investigate America’s history of racial injustice and its legacy, drawing dynamic connections across generations of Americans impacted by the narrative of racial difference.”

If you only have a couple of hours in Montgomery, The Legacy Museum is definitely where you want to spend your time. I urge everyone to make the trip to Montgomery to visit it. The museum and memorial are open daily, except for Tuesdays.

• The National Memorial for Peace and Justice :

The National Memorial for Peace and Justice is the Nation’s first memorial dedicated to the legacy of enslaved black people who were terrorized by lynching. I recommend visiting the memorial after you visit The Legacy Museum and there is a shuttle that runs between the two locations. At the memorial, you will walk around and under 800 monuments to symbolize thousands of racial terror lynching victims. Each monument represents each county in the US where racial terror lynching took place, which blew me away.

• Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts :

We absolutely love art and the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts is the perfect place to go when you need to decompress after the memorial and The Legacy Museum. It is completely free to visitors, which is so nice. It is the oldest Fine Arts Museum in the state and also home to ARTWORKS, for children. If art is not your thing, you might want to consider Jasmine Hill Gardens – it looks beautiful!

It can be extremely hard to sum up a trip such as this one in a blog post. For me, it is very easy to write about a laid-back beach trip, or our food tour through Italy, but our trip to Montgomery, Alabama was filled with so much education, history, and emotion, and that is just really challenging to actually put into words. The experience truly was unlike any other and I highly recommend taking the (less than) 3 hour drive from Atlanta to visit Montgomery so that you can experience this all for yourself. We had such a fantastic time and I cannot wait to see how the city keeps growing within the next couple of years!

Thank you so very much to the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce for hosting us during our time in Montgomery. Although we were graciously hosted, all of the opinions expressed in this article are 100% my own and I am so grateful that we had the opportunity to visit Montgomery and learn so much while we were there. Ian and I could not thank you enough! 

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Discovering The Heart Of Dixie: The Ultimate Guide To Montgomery & Things To Do

For those who want to explore Alabama’s capital, the ultimate guide to Montgomery lists all the amazing things to do.

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What to know when visiting montgomery, alabama, when to visit montgomery, getting around montgomery, alabama, where to eat in montgomery, things to do in montgomery, alabama, where to stay in montgomery: neighborhoods & accommodations, spending the perfect day in montgomery, alabama.

Alabama’s capital, Montgomery, has achieved significant growth since its incorporation in the early 1800s. Indeed, the city has a history that runs deep, with connections to the Confederacy and the Civil Rights Movement, and it’s a major destination along Alabama’s Civil Rights trail . Visitors who want to learn about this past can visit the Civil Rights Memorial or delve further into history by checking out the Alabama State Capitol building, which was built in the 1850s.

Fast-forward to the present and Montgomery has grown up to become a delightful place to visit with a love for the arts epitomized at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Animal lovers can drop by the Montgomery Zoo and nature enthusiasts can check out the Alabama River at Riverfront Park. This city is a reason why Alabama should be on a traveler's bucket list .

For those who want to explore Alabama’s capital, this ultimate guide to Montgomery has helpful information to help a visitor make the most of their trip.

Montgomery was once the center of the Confederacy as it was the capital of the Confederate States of America for a stint. This city was also the center of the Civil Rights Movement, with notable actions like the Montgomery Bus Boycott that was sparked by Rosa Parks.

Related: These Are The 10 Most Beautiful Towns In Alabama You Should Visit

Montgomery has played a huge role in the country’s history in relation to racial inclusion, and visitors can learn more about these at sites like the Rosa Parks Library and Museum, the Museum of Alabama, The Liberty Museum, and the Alabama State Capitol.

Montgomery experiences mild temperatures in winter and hot summers, but the best time to visit is usually in spring. Below is a deeper look at what to expect in this destination during the different seasons.

Spring (March to May)

This is the best time to visit Montgomery as the temperatures remain moderate, perfect for spending time outdoors. The highs range from the high 60s to the low 80s Fahrenheit (21 to 29 Celsius) and the lows don’t drop below the mid-40s (8 degrees Celsius).

Summer (June to August)

It can get quite hot in summer with temperatures reaching as high as the 90s Fahrenheit (33 Celsius).

Visitors who love the heat can enjoy spending time in the sun during this time. However, a lot of tourists visit Montgomery in the summer, so hotel and restaurant rates are higher at this time, and the attractions are more crowded.

Those who visit should check the weather forecast as the likelihood of some rainy days is higher in July and August.

Related: Top 10 Gulf Coast Beaches In Alabama

Autumn (September to November)

September remains quite warm, with temperatures reaching the high 80s (30 degrees Celsius). However, as fall progresses, the heat slowly dissipates with October experiencing temperatures in the mid-70s (26 Celsius) and November’s highs dropping to the mid-60s (20 Celsius).

Visitors looking for lower rates can visit in autumn as there are fewer tourists at this time.

Winter (December to February)

It hardly snows in Montgomery as the city gets only half an inch of snow annually. Winters are mild as the temperatures drop to the mid-30s (2 Celsius) and highs remain in the high 50s or low 60s.

However, the rainiest months are in winter — December and January — making this an inappropriate time to visit.

Montgomery is served by the Montgomery Regional Airport , which receives flights from Atlanta, Dallas, Charlotte, and Washington DC. Delta and American Airlines serve this airport with daily flights from and to the cities mentioned above.

This city is also linked to Interstates 65 and 85 as well as major US highways that make Montgomery accessible from major cities in Alabama, Georgia, and other Southern states. For instance, Atlanta, one of Georgia's top cities , is about a 2-hour drive from Montgomery, via Interstate 85, and Birmingham, Alabama — the Magic City — is only 90 miles away.

The best way for a visitor to get around Montgomery and the metropolitan area is by renting a car and driving themselves. Companies like Avis, Budget, Alamo, Hertz, and National offer their rental service at the airport.

Below is a look at other ways of getting around Montgomery for those who don’t wish to drive themselves.

The Montgomery Area Transit System operates public buses in more than 10 routes around the city. Riders can catch the bus as early as 5 am to 8:30 pm on weekdays and from 7 am to 7 pm on Saturdays. Sadly, there’s no bus service on Sundays.

Fares cost $2 for a single ride but visitors staying for an extended period can buy a weekly pass or monthly pass, which cost $18 and $45 respectively.

Rideshares/Taxis

Visitors can make use of services like Uber and Lyft, which are available in Montgomery. Traditional taxis are also found in the city, but these are costly for those traveling long distances.

Breakfast: First Watch

First Watch has made a name for itself in the Montgomery dining scene, with excellent service and even better food. This restaurant serves diners from breakfast to lunch, and the long lines are a testament to First Watch’s popularity. Those who don’t have time to wait for a seat can always order online and have the food delivered.

On the menu, there are classic breakfast dishes like eggs, bacon, and either chicken or pork sausages, as well as Belgian waffles and pancakes.

• Address : 2920 Zelda Rd, Montgomery, AL 36106, United States
• Hours : 7 am - 2:30 pm (daily)

Lunch: Dreamland BBQ

Dreamland BBQ doesn’t play around when it comes to barbecue dishes served in a vibrant setting. The restaurant is found in multiple locations in Alabama, Georgia, and Florida; Montgomery is one of these locations.

Dreamland’s specialty is BBQ ribs, but it also has sumptuous sandwich variations like the Big Daddy BBQ Sandwich, which is stuffed with either pork, chicken, or sausage.

Large groups can order their BBQ plates with pork, chicken, or boneless ribs and 2 sides.

• Address : 12 W Jefferson St, Montgomery, AL 36104, United States
• Hours : Mon - Thu: 11 am - 8 pm; Fri & Sat: 11 am - 9 pm; Sun: 11 am - 3 pm

Related: Iconically Satisfying Desserts From Sweet(s) Home Alabama

Dinner: Bonefish Grill

Those craving seafood ought to drop by Bonefish Grill, a contemporary restaurant with a relaxing ambiance.

Some popular dishes at Bonefish Grill are the Mahi-Mahi Shrimp, Parmesan-Crusted Rainbow Trout, and their Bonefish Signature Pasta — this dish has salmon alongside red pepper and artichokes that are bathed in creole sauce.

Bonefish also serves steak, pork chops, and chicken, as well as burgers. The drinks are also worth the visit, with offerings like sangria, margarita, and martini at the top of the list.

• Address : 7020 Eastchase Pkwy, Montgomery, AL 36117, United States
• Hours : Mon - Thu: 11 am - 10 pm; Fri & Sat: 11 am - 11 pm; Sun: 11 am - 9 pm

Drinks: The Gin Montgomery

The Gin is a trendy bar in Montgomery, with both indoor and outdoor seating as well as a friendly atmosphere. The craft cocktails have earned rave reviews; the most popular is The Gin’s Rosemary Tango, Sofia’s Favorite, and The Copywriter.

These have gin, vodka, and Irish whiskey respectively. There are also beers on tap.

• Address : 9100 Eastchase Pkwy, Montgomery, AL 36117
• Hours : Mon - Wed: 4 pm - 10:30 pm; Thu - Sat: 4 pm - 11:30 pm; Sun: 2:30 pm - 9:30 pm

From learning about Montgomery's deep history to exploring the outdoor sites, this city has some of the best things to do in Alabama . Here are a few top recommendations.

Visit the Animals at the Montgomery Zoo

Home to close to 1000 animals in 40 acres of zoo real estate, the Montgomery Zoo is the perfect place to visit in order to check out animals from all over the world. In fact, this site has what they call Animal Realms, which are sections with animals from Africa, Australia, North America, South America, and Asia.

For instance, the African realm has animals like the African lion, cheetahs, chimpanzees, and giraffes, among others. There’s also a Bengal tiger in the Asia section, jaguars in the South America section, and a black bear in the North American section.

• Address : 2301 Coliseum Pkwy, Montgomery, AL 36110
• Hours : 9 am - 4 pm (daily)
• Admission : $18 (adults 13 and older); $14 (children 3 to 12); $16 (seniors 65 and older); Free (children 2 and younger)

Explore Riverfront Park

Riverfront Park, as the name implies, is found along the Alabama River, on the Gun Island Chute. This park is a great place to take a boat ride on the river or simply stroll on the trails that run along the water.

Riverfront Park also boasts an amphitheater, which hosts regular concerts and other events. Other amenities are a historic train shed — the Union Station Train Shed — and a splash pad for kids.

• Address : 355 Commerce St, Montgomery, AL 36104
• Hours : Sunrise to sunset (daily)

Learn About Slavery at The Legacy Museum

Alabama’s dark past as a slave state is remembered at The Legacy Museum, which highlights Montgomery’s role during this era. The museum is found in a former enslavement camp, a short distance from a slave auction market.

Here, visitors get to learn about the Transatlantic Slave Trade with interactive exhibits that paint a vivid picture of all that happened during this time.

• Address : 400 N. Court Street Montgomery, Alabama 36104
• Hours : Wed - Sun: 9 am - 5 pm (closed on Mon & Tue)
• Admission : $5

Related: Step Back In Time & Spend A Night On The USS Alabama

Visit the Alabama State Capitol

The Alabama State Capitol is a symbol of Montgomery’s role as the state’s capital and a part of the city’s identity. This building was opened in 1851 and is today on the National Register of Historic Places.

Guided tours of the Capitol are offered to groups of 15 or more people, but this has to be pre-booked. Individuals can tour the building on weekdays; the House of Representatives, the Old Supreme Court Chamber, and the Rotunda are open to the public.

• Address : 600 Dexter Avenue, Montgomery, Alabama 36104
• Hours : Mon - Fri: 8 am - 4:30 pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
• Admission : Free

Travel Back in Time at Old Alabama Town

For a peek into Alabama of the 1800s, the Old Alabama Town in Montgomery is a fascinating place to visit. This site exhibits several restored buildings from the 19th century.

There’s also the Lucas Tavern, one of the oldest buildings in Old Alabama Town. There are both self-guided and guided tours of the site.

Address: 301 Columbus St, Montgomery, AL 36104

• Hours : Thu - Sat: 10 am - 3 pm (closed from Sun - Wed)
• Admission : $15 (adults); Free (children 12 and under)

Neighborhoods

Garden District

This is a historic neighborhood in the heart of Montgomery, boasting proximity to Alabama State University. There are a number of dining spots and shopping outlets in this area. Garden District predominantly has buildings from the 1940s to the late 1960s, and most of these are residential.

Cottage Hill

Cottage Hill is found near the Gun Island Chute of the Alabama River, off Interstate 65. This district is home to The National Memorial for Peace and Justice and the Rosa Parks Museum is also nearby.

Centennial Hill

This neighborhood is found north of Interstate 85, a short distance from attractions like the Civil Rights Memorial and the Alabama State Capitol. The National Memorial for Peace and Justice as well as the Rosa Parks Museum are also less than a mile away.

Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa at the Convention Center

• Address : 201 Tallapoosa Street, Montgomery, AL 36104
• Rate : From $256
• Amenities : Pool, sauna, valet parking, fitness center, business center, meeting facilities, bar, restaurant

Hampton Inn & Suites Montgomery-EastChase

• Address : 7651 Eastchase Parkway, Montgomery, AL 36117
• Rate : From $153
• Amenities : Business center, free parking, gym, heated pool, complimentary breakfast

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Montgomery

• Address : 10095 Chantilly Parkway, Montgomery, AL 36117
• Rate : From $79
• Amenities : Gym, smoking area, complimentary breakfast, indoor pool, laundry facilities, soundproof rooms, business center

Restful Private Room

• Address : Montgomery, Alabama, United States
• Amenities : Queen-size bed, private bathroom, kitchen access, paid washer & dryer, gas fireplace, private backyard

The F. Scott Suite

• Rate : From $192
• Amenities : 1 bedroom, queen bed, full kitchen, free parking, board games, outdoor furniture

Gorgeous Home in the Garden District

• Rate : From $567
• Amenities : 5 bedrooms, 4 baths, front & backyard, BBQ grill, washer & dryer, patio, free parking, smart lock

A-Frame Cabin in Pike Road

• Address : Pike Road, Alabama, United States
• Distance from Montgomery : 18 miles
• Rate : From $270
• Amenities : 3 bedrooms, 1 bath, pet-friendly, spacious yard, fire pits, BBQ grill, free parking, washer & dryer, full kitchen

Farmstay in Millbrook

• Address : Millbrook, Alabama, United States
• Distance from Montgomery : 10 miles
• Rate : From $220
• Amenities : 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, electric fireplace, BBQ grills, free parking, kitchen

Enjoy breakfast at a restaurant like First Watch before heading to the Montgomery Zoo to check out the animals. Spend most of the morning at the zoo then tour Old Alabama Town before having lunch at Dreamland BBQ.

After the meal, stroll to the Alabama State Capitol and tour the historic building then learn about local history at The Legacy Museum.

Afterward, take a relaxing stroll on the Riverwalk in Riverfront Park before taking a sunset dinner cruise on the Alabama River aboard the Harriot II Riverboat. End the day with some drinks at a local bar like The Gin.

Q: What is Montgomery Alabama famous for?

Montgomery is famous for being the capital of Alabama and it has a deep history in which it was the capital of the Confederacy as well as the center of the Civil Rights Movement .

Q: Does Montgomery, Alabama get snow?

Montgomery rarely gets snow with only an average of half an inch of snow received each year in winter.

Q: Is Montgomery Alabama worth visiting?

Montgomery, AL is definitely worth visiting for its historical value alone. It's a stop on the Alabama Civil Rights Trail and is home to an immense amount of history—though it's not always the heartwarming kind.

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Birmingham is best known for its Civil Rights sights and musical heritage, but between live jazz and historic attractions catch the Birmingham Museum of Art or enjoy a detour through the city's botanical gardens.

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Montgomery, Alabama Travel Guide

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The famous explorer, Hernando DeSoto, passed near the region that was to become Montgomery as early as 1540. In 1819 (just 11 days before Alabama was admitted to the Union), the towns of Alabama Town and New Philadelphia joined together to become Montgomery. The name was chosen to honor Major Richard Montgomery of the Revolutionary War. In1861, Jefferson Davis was inaugurated as the President of the Confederacy at the state capitol building. Interestingly, this is also where civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. spoke at the conclusion of the famous Selma-to-Montgomery march.

Perhaps the best place to start a discovery of Montgomery is at historic Union Station, which houses the visitor center. One will soon discover that a premier attraction is Old Alabama Town, located in the center of historic Montgomery, and occupying about six blocks. Remarkably, this diverse grouping of over 40 restored 19th and 20th century homes reflect a diverse class status, and everyday life as an Alabamian. For even more interesting architecture, visit Montgomery's Lower Commerce Street Historic District which sports an array of buildings designed in the Victorian style.

Those with children, or anyone who enjoys wildlife, should not pass by the opportunity to experience the amazing Montgomery Zoo, which features over 700 animals from five continents. A train ride will help those with a sense of adventure experience the animals in their natural "barrier free" environment. Another great find is the Mann Wildlife Learning Museum. This unique museum is packed full of interactive presentations of North American Wildlife. No doubt, this is another sure-hit with children.

Several sites in Montgomery highlight the civil rights movement. Montgomery's Civil Rights Memorial was the first of its kind in the US. The memorial details the struggles and achievements that peppered the civil rights movement, and lists the names of dozens of people who died for the cause. The Dexter Avenue King Memorial Church is understandably proud to note that the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. served as its pastor for six years, and orchestrated the Montgomery bus boycott from here. A guided tour of the church is well worth one's time. The Rosa Parks Library and Museum pays special tribute to the incredibly strong Rosa Parks, who refused to relinquish her bus seat to a white passenger. The museum sweeps visitors back in time through pictures, a replica of the bus, and video footage.

Montgomery is home to one of the most respected Shakespeare Festivals in the world. The professional cast performs year-round, entertaining visitors with more than 400 productions per year, including three works of William Shakespeare, and works of several famous southern play writers.

Montgomery is located at the intersection of Interstates 85 and 65, approximately 90 miles southeast of Birmingham.

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Montgomery travel guide

Montgomery tourism | montgomery guide, you're going to love montgomery.

From the capital of the Confederacy to the birthplace of the modern civil rights movement, Montgomery, Alabama, has a long and remarkable history. Its many landmarks include the Rosa Parks Library and Museum, the Civil Rights Memorial, and the Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum, as well as its hospitality and charm.

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Montgomery

1. a hotbed of history.

The Selma to Montgomery March in 1965 was a defining moment of the modern Civil Rights Movement. The city still preserves many of its historical sites, and is an indispensable stop for history buffs.

2. Superb Southern Cooking

Whether its fresh Gulf seafood and local meats at Central or the Walk thru Fire Pancakes at Red Bluff Cottage Bed and Breakfast, nothing beats authentic Montgomery cuisine.

3. Soak in the Sounds

The birthplace of Nat King Cole, Big Mama Thornton, and Hank Williams, Montgomery is the perfect city to enjoy live music; head to 1048 Jazz and Blues and Sous La Terre.

4. Indulge Your Love of Theater

The Alabama Shakespeare Festival, one of the 10 largest Shakespeare festivals in the world, and the Southern Writers' Project Festival of New Plays can be enjoyed each year at the State Theater in Montgomery.

5. Enjoy the Great Outdoors

Montgomery offers a variety of fun outdoor activities, including kayak fishing, whitewater rafting, Segway tours, and go karting.

What to do in Montgomery

1. alabama state capitol: reflect and remember.

The Alabama State Capitol, otherwise known as the "First Confederate Capital", has been named a US National Historic Landmark. The infamous Selma to Montgomery march led during the Civil Rights movement ended on the steps of the Capitol where Martin Luther King Jr. demanded an end to racial discrimination in Alabama. The building was designed to mimic the architecture of ancient Greece, with a visually stunning stained-glass dome directly above the inner rotunda. On these same grounds you will also find the Confederate Memorial Monument which stands in tribute to those who died in the former Confederacy in the Civil War.

2. Civil Rights Memorial Center: Delve into the Past

There's no way to avoid paying tribute to Montgomery's central role in the fight for Civil Rights when visiting Alabama. The Center commemorates 41 people who were killed in the struggle including Emmett Louis-Till, Medgar Evars and Martin Luther King Jr. The museum is both profoundly educational and sobering, with a clear purpose to continue these martyrs' legacies in the fight for equality. Alongside these martyrs' stories is a 56-seat theater, educational classrooms and a Wall of Tolerance which displays the names of half a million people who have committed to bringing justice and ending inequality.

3. Dexter Avenue Baptist Church: Take a Tour... or Maybe Take the Chance to Worship!

Continue walking in the footsteps of Reverend Dr. King when you visit this Baptist Church in which he first started preaching in 1954. The Montgomery Bus Boycott was organized in the church's very basement. Today, the church remains a popular place of worship where visitors can attend Sunday school classes, bible study or worship services. For those who would like to see the building without participating in religious activities, you can easily schedule a tour online to view the grounds and learn more about Martin Luther King's time here.

4. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts: Appreciate Local Culture

Montgomery also boasts a surprisingly robust art collection from both American and European artists of the 19th and 20th centuries. The museum does a great job of showcasing Southern artists as well as to keep its artistic routes firmly grounded in the local culture. In addition, the museum puts a special emphasis on education as part of its community outreach program, which is great for tourists as well. Spend the day exploring the interactive ARTWORKS gallery, which offers interpretations of art works for children in a hands-on and engaging way.

5. First White House of the Confederacy: Been to Washington DC? Now See the First 'White House'

Visit the ancestral home of President Jefferson Davis, who made this building the First White House when the Confederacy of the United States was based in Montgomery. Learn more about the history of the Civil War from a different perspective while viewing historic relics, photographs and documents during one of the home's guided tours. In addition, the museum regularly hosts school field trips and educational speaker series. Even if you don't end up spending that much time exploring the former First White House, it's convenient location in the heart of downtown makes it easy to reach from all of the other notable Montgomery sites you may enjoy during your visit.

Activities & attractions in Montgomery

Where to Eat in Montgomery

For BBQ, Jim 'N Nicks is hard to beat, with pork dishes priced under $15. Café M showcases fresh international cuisine with lunch specials priced at $15 per person. Martin's Restaurant specializes in fried chicken, catfish, and salmon croquettes, with daily specials for under $10.

Most popular restaurants in Montgomery

When to visit montgomery.

Montgomery has a humid subtropical climate with mild winters and hot summers. If you're not one for the heat, the best times to visit are the spring and fall, when temperatures average 60 to 75.

How to Get to Montgomery

Montgomery Regional Airport (MGM) connects to Atlanta, Dallas-Fort Worth, and Charlotte. Taxi fares from the airport to downtown average $25.

I-65, a north-south freeway between Birmingham and Huntsville to the north and Mobile to the south, and I-85, another north-south freeway to Atlanta, both run through Montgomery.

Greyhound and Megabus both have service to Montgomery from Mobile, Atlanta, and New Orleans, among others. Private shuttle buses are available from the airport.

Airports near Montgomery

Airlines serving montgomery, where to stay in montgomery.

Try the Embassy Suites Hotel, a high-rise with full amenities; the Red Bluff Cottage, a quaint downtown inn with a view of the Alabama River; and the Renaissance Montgomery Hotel, featuring a rooftop pool, luxury rooms, and three restaurants.

Popular Neighborhoods in Montgomery

Downtown Montgomery - Downtown Montgomery is home to the Alabama State Capitol, Dexter Avenue Baptist Church, where Martin Luther King Jr. was a pastor, as well as many hotels, restaurants, and shops.

Garden District - the Garden District is home to the Dr. C.A. Thigpen House, the Church of the Ascension, and the Alabama Governor's Mansion.

Dalraida - the Dalraida neighborhood is home to Montgomery's largest shopping malls, the Eastdale Mall and The Shoppes at Eastchase.

Where to stay in popular areas of Montgomery

Most booked hotels in montgomery, how to get around montgomery, public transportation.

Montgomery Transit (The M) provides public bus transportation throughout the city. An $18 weekly fixed route pass is available.

Cab companies in Montgomery include Wilson Cab Company, On Time Taxi, and Alabama Taxi.

Though traffic in the city can be hectic, Montgomery has six public parking lots, which are free Monday through Thursday from 6 pm to 6 am and from 6 pm Friday to 6 am Monday.

Best car rental deals in Montgomery

2 Adults, 2 Bags

The Cost of Living in Montgomery

Shopping streets.

Downtown Montgomery features a host of great shopping spots, including the SAC's Gallery, which showcases the work of local artists. The Eastbrook Antique Mall near Dalraida houses 300 vendors selling everything from furniture to glassware, while the Eastdale Mall has an array of fashion, gifts, and accessories for the whole family.

Groceries and Other

The Fresh Market sells locally sourced products as well as a gourmet selection of take-out; Renfroe's Market, a local favorite, features a large selection of fresh and packaged items; and the Publix chain carries all your shopping staples. A gallon of milk is priced at $3.33 and a dozen eggs at $2.39, on average.

11 Things to Do in Montgomery Alabama

I was recently in Montgomery Alabama for a press trip as a guest of Visit Montgomery. I loved the city and here are some things you should do that will also make you fall in love with the capital of Alabama.

Visit the Legacy Museum and National Memorial to Peace and Justice

Cruise from riverfront park, attend the alabama shakespeare festival, visit the montgomery museum of fine arts, tour the dexter avenue king memorial baptist church, attend a montgomery biscuit baseball game at riverwalk stadium, attend a festival, record a podcast.

• Visit the The F. Scott & Zelda Fitzgerald Museum

Visit The Rosa Parks Library and Museum

Accommodation.

The Legacy Museum looks at the dark side of the black experience in the U.S. It follows the story through slavery, the half-fulfilled promise of freedom, the terrorism of lynching to civil rights but also to mass incarceration. It is a sobering museum that is on my top 10 of the best museums in the United States.

The National Memorial to Peace and Justice is a memorial to those known and unknown black men and women who were lynched in the United States between the Civil War and 1952. It is composed of 800 different steel monoliths that are suspended from the ceiling. There is one for each of the 800 different counties in the United States where a lynching was documented by the Equal Justice Initiative (EJI) which opened both the museum and the monument.

read more about the Legacy Museum and the Memorial here: Montgomery, Alabama – Civil Rights, Slavery, Lynching and the Legacy Museum (Video #98)

Montgomery is situated on the Alabama River, but because this river is known to flood, there are few buildings right up against the river. Instead, it is a green park with foot/bike paths, a concert shell and riverboat rides on the Harriott II Riverboat. The Harriott II features site seeing cruises as well as dinner cruises. Dinner cruises must be booked at least 48 hours in advance. Check the cruise schedule for more details.

If Shakespeare is not the first thing you associate with Alabama, then I have news for you. The Alabama Shakespeare Festival is among the 10 largest festivals dedicated to the Bard in the world. Patrons Wynton and Carolyn Blount helped bring the festival to Montgomery in the 1980s, not only rescuing it from insolvency but building a beautiful theatre complex with 2 indoor and one outdoor stage. The large theatre has 762-792 seats, depending on the configuration. The festival features Shakespeare plays as well as musicals and commissioned theatre pieces.

In the Summer kids can take part in technical theatre camps and acting camps, including “Camp Shakespeare”.

The theatre buildings are in the massive and beautiful 77 acres Blount Cultural Park. Mr. Blount founded a large international construction company based in Montgomery and the one-time postmaster general did pretty well for himself as well as for his hometown.

You can find the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts also located in the Blount Cultural Park. The museum has a fine collection, appropriate to the size of Montgomery but what I think is special about the museum is the kids area of the museum.

For example, the museum’s collection includes a painting by Edward Hopper called New York Office (1962). In the children’s area is a re-creation of the painting as a 3D scene and a collection of easels so that kids can try there hand at painting their own version of the scene. There is a place where kids can design their own quilt and another where they can see which frame works better with different pictures. It is the best children’s exhibit I have seen at an art museum.

The museum has not just one but three cell phone-based tours so you can get an adult tour, a youth tour, and a collector’s tour. They also have events like live Jazz and “Artful Yoga” held in the collection space. They encourage photography for personal use (no flash or tripods). In the Fall of 2018, they opened a new sculpture garden. In the art museum world, what is the opposite of “stuffy”?

Right by the Alabama Capital Building is the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church. You can attend a service on Sunday morning or get a guided tour of either the parsonage or the church. The tour of the church starts in the basement where the leaders of the Montgomery Bus Boycott met to create the Montgomery Improvement Association. They enlisted the 26-year-old pastor of the church Martin Luther King Jr. to head up the organization.

See other historical and heritage tours in Montgomery .

Hear the story of the bus boycott, Dr. King and the Civil Rights movement as you sit in Dr. King’s office or try out his pulpit.

I love a major league baseball game, but there is nothing quite like a minor league game for a good family outing. The local baseball team is the Double-A Montgomery Biscuits which is a farm team for the Tampa Bay Devil Rays. You won’t find a bad seat in the stadium as nothing is more than 24 rows from the action.

When we were told that we would watch the game from a luxury box I laughed. Certainly, a Double-A team wouldn’t have luxury boxes… right? I was so wrong. This stadium has a JumboTron, instant replay and yes luxury boxes just like a major league stadium. It also has a train running back and forth beyond the outfield wall that kids can ride and the kind of fun activities between innings that only minor league baseball offers (like the biscuit toss and racing around the bases).

We attended on a night when parachutists from nearby Maxwell Air Force Base started the game by doing a precision landing on the field. Montgomery has a large Air Force presence. This is where the Wright Brothers opened their first flight school in 1910.

Get your picture taken with “Big Mo” who is an “an orange beast that loves biscuits”. If you are lucky maybe they will be playing the Biloxi Shuckers, the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp, or the Pensacola Blue Wahoos.

We happened to be in town for the annual Taco Libre festival. This festival puts together a bunch of food trucks offering traditional and way outside the box taco choices. I loved the Kansas City burnt ends taco and the corned beef tacos I had. The festival also includes live music and you can upgrade from the standard entrance fee to get unlimited margaritas.

Check out the Montgomery calendar of events for other festivals and events.

I am a big fan of podcasting (I host 4 shows) and storytelling. If you have a story to tell, you can record your own episode of a podcast or just record a story at the Storybooth + Podcast Studio in the Kress Building on Dexter Avenue. The Kress building is an old department store that has been recently renovated and converted to a multi-use space.

Visit The F. Scott & Zelda Fitzgerald Museum

F. Scott & Zelda Fitzgerald met when he volunteered for the army in 1918 and was stationed in Montgomery at Camp Sheridan. They later came back to live in the area which was Zelda’s hometown from 1931 to 1932. The house where they lived is now a museum dedicated to the couple. It includes information about their literary achievements as well as many original pieces of art painted by Zelda.

For an unusual stay, there are 2 bedrooms available upstairs that you can rent through Airbnb . Maybe you will be inspired to create your novel.

Right next to the spot where Rosa Parks was arrested in 1955 for not giving up her seat on a local bus to a white man, you can now find the Rosa Parks Library and Museum. The Museum is a small but impactful museum that walks you through the over a year-long bus boycott that kicked off the modern Civil Rights Movement. You start in a room with a full-sized bus that you can see into as the events of that fateful night are replayed. There is also a kid’s museum but the “adult” version would be pretty good for older kids on its own.

For a more in-depth experience, you can take a Civil Rights tour of Montgomery .

I stayed at the Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa at the Convention Center which is a beautiful large hotel located in the heart of downtown 2 blocks from Riverfront Park, the Rosa Parks Museum, and the Legacy Museum. It has an onsite restaurant, a business center in the spacious lobby, and a fitness center. My only regret is that I did not get time to try the rooftop pool.

There are plenty of things to do in Montgomery for families and adults alike… and we have not even started to talk about the food

Related Posts

by Chris Christensen

+Chris Christensen | @chris2x | facebook

3 Responses to “11 Things to Do in Montgomery Alabama”

Visit Old Alabama Town in downtown Montgomery.

What is Old Alabama Town?

Wow this is wonderful blog…such a beautiful place was Montgomery accommodation was simply superb and definitely i must Visit The Rosa Parks Library and Museum nice blog thanks for sharing.

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Tags: alabama , article , Montgomery

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• 1.1 Tourist information
• 1.2 Climate
• 2.1 By plane
• 3 Get around
• 4.1 Museums
• 8.2 Mid-range
• 8.3 Fine dining
• 10.1 Budget
• 10.2 Mid-range
• 10.3 Splurge
• 12 Stay safe

Montgomery is the capital of Alabama , in the River Heritage region of the state. Montgomery has also been recognized nationally for its downtown revitalization and new urbanism projects.

Understand [ edit ]

Montgomery briefly held the title of capital of the Confederacy and was also the site of Jefferson Davis' inauguration. Montgomery was also a pivotal location during the civil rights movement, seeing the arrest of Rosa Parks and the ensuing bus boycott, as well as numerous non violent protests led by Dr. Martin Luther King.

Montgomery's central location in Alabama's Black Belt has long made it a processing hub for commodity crops such as cotton, peanuts, and soybeans. Due to its location along the Alabama River and extensive rail connections, Montgomery has been and continues to be a regional distribution hub for a wide range of industries. Since the late 20th century, it has diversified its economy, achieving increased employment in sectors such as healthcare, business, government, and manufacturing.

In 2019, it was home to just under 200,000 people.

Tourist information [ edit ]

• Convention and Visitors Center , 300 Water Street , ☏ +1 334 262-0013 , [email protected] .  
• Montgomery travel information from Alabama Department of Tourism

Climate [ edit ]

Montgomery has short, mild winters, warm springs and autumns, and long, hot, humid summers. The daily average temperature in January is 47 °F (8 °C), and there are 3-4 days of sub 20 °F (−7 °C) lows; 10 °F (−12 °C) and below is extremely rare. The daily average in July is 82°F (28 °C), with highs exceeding 90 °F (32 °C) on 86 days per year and 100 °F (38°C) on 4. Summer afternoon heat indices, much more often than the actual air temperature, are frequently at or above 100 °F.

Rainfall is well-distributed throughout the year, though February, March and July are the wettest months, while October is significantly the driest month. Thunderstorms bring much of Montgomery's rainfall. These are common during the summer months but occur throughout the year. Severe thunderstorms – producing large hail and damaging winds in addition to the usual hazards of lightning and heavy rain – can occasionally occur, particularly during the spring. Severe storms also bring a risk of tornadoes. Sometimes, tropical disturbances – some of which strike the Gulf Coast as hurricanes before losing intensity as they move inland – can bring very heavy rains.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ]

By car [ edit ].

The two major interstate highways that serve Montgomery are I-85, which connects Montgomery with Atlanta, Georgia; and I-65 which connects Montgomery with Birmingham to the north and Mobile to the south.

By bus [ edit ]

• Greyhound , 950 W South Blvd , ☏ +1 334 286-0658 . 24 hours, 7 days a week .  
• Megabus , 495 Molton St ( Intermodal Transit Facility ). Service from Atlanta , Mobile , and New Orleans .  

Get around [ edit ]

Montgomery Area Transit System [dead link] (MATS) operates the bus and trolley system in Montgomery.

See [ edit ]

• Riverfront Park , 355 Commerce St , ☏ +1 334-625-2100 . W-M 9:00AM-6:00PM . Promenade on the Gun Island Chute of the Alabama River that is a gathering point for visitors and locals alike, with sunset views, riverboat rides, and the old Montgomery Union Station.  
• Blount Cultural Park , 6055 Vaughn Road , ☏ +1 334 274-0062 . Daily 6AM-10PM . Manicured parkway hosting fine arts museum and Shakespearean festival grounds and old English bridge.  

Museums [ edit ]

• Hank Williams Museum , 118 Commerce Street , ☏ +1 334 262-3600 . M-Sa 9AM-5PM, Su 1-4PM . About the musician who hailed from south central Alabama, with his statue on Commerce St nearby.  
• The Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum , 919 Felder Ave , ☏ +1 334-264-4222 . Th-Su 10AM-3PM . Restored home of the famed American author. $5 .  

Do [ edit ]

• Alabama National Fair .  
• The Capri Theatre , 1045 E. Fairview. Montgomery's only independent movie theatre.
• 32.42539 -86.13917 3 Wind Creek Casino & Hotel Montgomery , 1801 Eddie L. Tullis Rd. , ☏ +1 866-946-3360 . ( updated Feb 2017 )
• Montgomery Biscuits , 200 Coosa St, minor league baseball team playing at Montgomery Riverfront Stadium. 334-323-2255

Learn [ edit ]

• Alabama State University .
• Southern Christian University [dead link] .
• Auburn University Montgomery .
• Faulkner University . Is a small Christian university.
• Huntingdon College . A small United Methodist affiliated college.
• Air University . AU is operated by the U.S. Air Force.

Buy [ edit ]

• [dead link] Sanctuary Cigars , 7813 Vaughn Rd . ( updated Apr 2017 )

Eat [ edit ]

Montgomery's diners tend to be very basic eaters. Lunch times are often served as a "meat and three plate". That is where a restaurant, during the lunch hour, serves a meat course and three sides (vegetables or potatoes). It tends to be very filling (perhaps too filling) but reliable quantity and quality wise.

There seems to be a preference for corporate generic restaurants (Outback, Olive Garden, Red Lobster). If they have a franchise, Montgomery probably has one.

You need to understand a few southern cuisines when dining in Montgomery and these are applicable throughout the Alabama and Mississippi area.

Most restaurants serve "sweet" tea—sweetened with sugar, and may be too sweet for some. when ordering iced tea, "unsweetened" is also an option.

Bar-B-Que means that meat is slow cooked over a wood fire. Sauce is served seen the full range of sauces (mustard type, tomato based, Tex-Mex).

Montgomery is home for the Hyundai automobile plant. Look for several fine Korean and Pan Asian restaurants and interesting menu items.

Montgomery is in lower Alabama and you can expect, in some of the better restaurants, some Cajun influence.

Budget [ edit ]

• Scott St. Deli , 412 Scott St . A downtown landmark, serves sandwiches and basic deli fare.  
• Chris' Hot Dogs , 138 Dexter Ave . Another favorite, serves, as the name implies, hot dogs and the like.  

Mid-range [ edit ]

• Jim & Nicks Bar-B-Que , 6415 Atlanta Hwy , ☏ +1 334 213-0046 . Chain barbecue restaurant.  
• Cafe Louisa , 1034 E. Fairview. Coffee and bakery with affordable sandwiches and other cafe fare
• El Rey Burrito Lounge , 1031 E. Fairview. Tex-Mex with a contemporary flair.
• Dreamland BBQ , 12 W Jefferson St. Noted BBQ eatery in town.

Fine dining [ edit ]

• Martha's Place Buffet and Catering , 7780 Atlanta Hwy , ☏ +1 334-226-7743 . Buffet Su 10:30AM - 3PM . Buffet featuring southern cooking.  
• La Jolla , 6854 Eastchase Pkwy , ☏ +1 334 356-2600 . Tapas and gourmet dining; known locally for the wine selection.  
• Vintage Year , 405 Cloverdale Rd , ☏ +1 334 264-8463 .  

Drink [ edit ]

• Tavern & Porter Room , 12 W. Jefferson. Bar with subdued lighting.

Sleep [ edit ]

• Comfort Suites Montgomery , 110 Folmar Pkwy , ☏ +1 334 613-9843 .  
• Courtyard Montgomery , 5555 Carmichael Road , ☏ +1 334 272-5533 , fax : +1 334 279-0853 .  
• Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites , 9250 Boyd-cooper Parkway , ☏ +1 334 271-5516 .  
• Holiday Inn Express , 5135 Carmichael Road , ☏ +1 334 270-9199 . ( updated Jun 2017 )
• Sonesta ES Suites Montgomery , 1200 Hilmar Court , ☏ +1 334 270-3300 , fax : +1 334 260-0907 . Suites and outdoor pool courtyard along with complimentary breakfast.  
• Wingate by Wyndham Montgomery , 2060 East Boulevard , ☏ +1 334 244-7880 .  

Splurge [ edit ]

• Embassy Suites Hotel & Conference Center , 300 Tallapoosa Street , ☏ +1 334 269-5055 .  
• 32.450249 -86.401412 1 Montgomery Marriott Prattville Hotel & Conference Center at Capitol Hill , 2500 Legends Circle , ☏ +1 334 290-1235 , fax : +1 334 290-2111 , [email protected] .  

Connect [ edit ]

Montgomery's area code is 334.

Stay safe [ edit ]

For emergencies dial 911 for medical and police assistance. Avoid the West and Southwestern parts of the city, as these tend to be where most of the crime is concentrated. Carjacking is not uncommon, so keep your doors locked when not around your vehicle. The Eastern portion of the city, specifically from the Eastern Blvd onward, offers many safe and family friendly shopping attractions and venues.

Cope [ edit ]

During the months of April through October, Montgomery experiences periods of high heat and humidity. Plan your "outside" days accordingly. Be sure to acclimatize to the heat (this should take a few days), take advantage of early mornings and evenings, drink plenty of water.

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Peace, Brotherhood, and Biscuit Cannons in Alabama

Deep veins of American history — past and present — in 162 square miles of Montgomery, Alabama.

MONTGOMERY, Alabama - "Montgomery is a city that’s still learning how to tell its story," a shrewd turn of phrase dropped into casual conversation by Wade Preston, the founder and head roaster of Montgomery’s coolest new coffee shop .

That coffee shop, Prevail Union , is tucked into an alleyway where the Montgomery Fair Department Store once stood. No one would think twice about that old department store these days, were it not for a female employee named Rosa Parks who, upon leaving work one evening in 1955, rode the Montgomery city bus and refused to give up her seat.

Spend any time at all in Montgomery, Alabama, and you quickly discover that the city is full of these places: unassuming storefronts, street corners, churches, old houses, and landmarks that are pivotal to the legacy of racial terror in the Deep South, but that you might walk right on past if you didn’t know any better. That fountain? A former slave market, one of the largest in the Antebellum South. That stately home? The first White House of the Confederacy. That old greyhound bus depot? The site of a bloody race riot.

The Scott & Zelda Fitzgerald Museum 919 Felder Ave. #919; +1-334-264-4222 Zelda Sayre, a Montgomery native and socialite, met young F. Scott Fitzgerald while he was stationed just outside Montgomery during World War I. After the couple married and spent the roaring 20s traveling across Europe, they settled briefly at 919 Felder Avenue, which is now home to a museum displaying love letters, manuscripts, and personal items that belonged to the Fitzgerald’s. And if you really want to channel your inner flapper, the rooms above the museum where Scott and Zelda lived are actually available to rent on Airbnb.

Alabama Shakespeare Festival 1 Festival Dr.; +334-271-5353 This “festival” is actually a year-round professional theater that also happens to organize one of the largest Shakespeare festivals in the world. Each year, ASF puts on ten plus productions, including some Shakespeare and a variety of other shows ranging from kid-friendly to literary plays and everything in between.

Montgomery Biscuits 200 Coosa St.; +1-334-323-2255 If anyone can think of a better name for a professional sports team, please, let me know. From April through August, you can catch a minor league baseball game at this family-friendly ballpark, and, if you’re lucky, a biscuit from an air cannon. (No, seriously: you’ve heard of a T-shirt cannon? Well, this cannon fires out wrapped-up biscuits.)

Eat and Drink

Common Bond Brewers 424 Bibb St.; +1-334-676-2287 Montgomery’s first production brewery and tasting room, Common Bond is proof that this city is teetering on the verge of cool. Although they only just opened in 2018, their tap room has quickly become a hot spot for both beer lovers and friends of the founders – which in a small-town-meets-city like Montgomery, is pretty much everyone.

Vintage Year 405 Cloverdale Rd.; +1-334-819-7215 An upscale fixture of Montgomery’s dining scene, but not without down-home staples like fried green tomatoes and stone-ground grits. Once a former bottle shop, it has an impressive wine list that pairs excellently with seriously delicious food.

Leroy 2756 Boultier St.; +1-334-356-7127 A sultry cocktail bar that feels more like an after-hours Bushwick drinking den – complete with a DJ spinning records in the corner – than an Alabama watering hole. The bartenders here are the real deal, so don’t be afraid to go off-menu and ask them to whip up something special.

Martin’s 1796 Carter Hill Rd.; +1-334-265-1767 The type of place you’d write home about, where the sweet tea flows and the floor-to-ceiling wood paneling takes you back to a simpler time. Order a fried “pulley bone,” the preferred Montgomery cut of chicken, with a smattering of sides like mac and cheese, black eyed peas, and collard greens, topped off with what is guaranteed to be the largest, most delicious slice of lemon meringue pie you’ve ever tasted.

Capital Oyster Bar 617 Shady St.; +1-334-239-8958 At the end of a long dirt road you’ll stumble upon this locals-only spot on the Alabama River known for its live music, prime people watching, and lip-smacking-good oysters. Come Sunday mid-afternoon after church lets out; leave after the band’s gone home.

Chris’ Hot Dogs 138 Dexter Ave.; +1-334-265-6850 A Montgomery staple. Eat at the counter and ask for Gus and Theo.

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We make every effort to ensure the information in our articles is accurate at the time of publication. But the world moves fast, and even we double-check important details before hitting the road.