Alabama’s capital, Montgomery, is situated on the east bank of the Alabama River in the state’s geographic center. There is a lot to see, including family-friendly sites such as Montgomery Zoo and the distinctive MOOseum with its cow motif. But whether you’re looking for weekend activities in Montgomery or organizing a trip there, don’t skip out on exploring the city’s history, which is one of its most outstanding characteristics.

Pay a visit to the Civil Rights Memorial

A black granite disc having water running over it below the wall of the City Rights memorial is inscribed with the names of the people who gave their lives fighting for civil rights. The Wall of Tolerance lists the names of guests who have vowed to strive for tolerance and justice and is one of the numerous exhibits and educational presentations tourists can find here. The Civil Rights Memorial Center is near the monument, situated in a spacious location.

Follow in the footsteps of Dr. King just at Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church and the Dexter Parsonage Museum:

King and his family resided in the nine-room parsonage of the church during his time there, which is now the Dexter Parsonage Museum. The house on the National Register of Historic Places has also been meticulously renovated to reflect how it appeared when the Kings lived there, down to many of the original furnishings.

The museum also features an interpretative center with images, artifacts, and timelines that explore the civil rights struggle in Montgomery and how church leaders and people were involved. The King-John’s Garden for Reflection is a designated area for meditation and reflection and is located behind the museum.

The Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts

It does have a massive collection of more than 4,000 pieces, many of which include examples of American art from the 1700s to the present. A regional art display with a focus on folk artists as well as self-taught workers is also part of the American art collection.

It features paintings, sketches, crafts, and a sizable quilt collection. The museum also has a variety of works of European art, in addition to a variety of African artwork that consists of sculptures, furniture, fabrics, and masks.

Hank Williams Museum:

One of the most well-known figures in country music is honored at the Hank Williams Museum in the heart of Montgomery. Hank’s substantial personal collection is on display inside the museum, containing his powder-blue 1952 Cadillac, a Steinway piano, two Gibson guitars, and a vast assortment of his wardrobe, ranging from his first pair of cowboy boots from childhood to his stage outfits.

His other personal effects are his home’s artwork, musical equipment, and everyday stuff like his toiletry kit and shoe-shine equipment. Sheet music, engraved vinyl albums, and various prizes, such as Platinum Records and Photographs, are among the memorabilia.

Go to the Montgomery Zoo

With a vast range of animals from around the world, the Montgomery Wildlife Park is an exceptionally well-liked family attraction in Montgomery. Some of the most well-known inhabitants of the continent reside in the Australian environment, including wallabies and kangaroos. Cheetahs, hippos, elephants, and giraffes are among the African creatures that can be seen by visitors.

Asian animals include the nearly extinct Sumatran tiger and Indian rhino. The endangered golden lion tamarin, Chilean flamingo, emerald tree boa, and a variety of frogs are also included in the South American display. This consists of a petting zoo where children can feed African pygmy goats and a North American area with bison, bald eagles, and black bears.

Discover Old Alabama Town

Located in Montgomery’s historic downtown, Old Alabama Town is a collection of over 50 historically significant homes and structures that have been renovated to their original condition and are available for public tours. There are interpreters accessible all through the neighborhood to solve inquiries, and each home has been appropriately outfitted and furnished to depict life in late 19th and early 20th century Alabama.

The Ordeman House is the focus of the complex, and entry includes a tour of the house as well as a guide and map to the other buildings.

Visit the Alabama State Capitol

The Montgomery State Capitol was constructed in the Greek Revival architectural style after the former structure was destroyed by fire in 1850. During the Civil War, this historic structure doubled as the state and Confederate capitals. Later, it served as the setting for one of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s most well-known addresses, which he gave at the conclusion of the Selma to Montgomery March for Voting Rights. The Senate, Old Supreme Court, House of Representatives, and Rotunda are all open for tours.