bigtravelbuzzMontgomery is the capital city of Alabama and has a rich history, especially regarding the civil rights movement. Here are some things to do in Montgomery:
Visit the Alabama State Capitol: The Alabama State Capitol building was built in 1851 and served as the first capitol of the Confederacy. Today, it is a National Historic Landmark and open for public tours.
Walk through the Civil Rights Memorial Center: This center honors those who lost their lives during the civil rights movement. The center has exhibits that cover the history of the movement and the stories of those who fought for civil rights.
Tour the Rosa Parks Museum: This museum is dedicated to the life and legacy of Rosa Parks, who famously refused to give up her seat on a Montgomery bus. The museum features exhibits on her life and the history of the civil rights movement.
Explore the Legacy Museum and National Memorial for Peace and Justice: This museum and memorial focus on the history of slavery, lynching, and segregation in the United States. The memorial features 800 hanging steel columns, each representing a county where a lynching took place.
Visit the Hank Williams Museum: Hank Williams was a country music legend and was born in Montgomery. The museum features exhibits on his life and career, as well as memorabilia such as his guitar and stage outfits.
Take a stroll through the Riverfront Park: This park is located along the Alabama River and has a beautiful walking trail, a splash pad for children, and picnic areas.
Dine at a local restaurant: Montgomery has many great restaurants serving southern comfort food, seafood, and barbecue. Be sure to try some of the local favorites such as fried catfish, chicken and waffles, or gumbo.
Overall, Montgomery has a rich history and culture, and there is plenty to see and do.
Places to Visit in Montgomery
here are some places to visit in Montgomery, Alabama:
Alabama State Capitol: The Alabama State Capitol is a National Historic Landmark that served as the first capitol of the Confederacy. Visitors can take a guided tour of the building and learn about its history.
Civil Rights Memorial Center: The Civil Rights Memorial Center honors those who lost their lives during the civil rights movement. The center has exhibits that cover the history of the movement and the stories of those who fought for civil rights.
Rosa Parks Museum: This museum is dedicated to the life and legacy of Rosa Parks, who famously refused to give up her seat on a Montgomery bus. The museum features exhibits on her life and the history of the civil rights movement.
Legacy Museum and National Memorial for Peace and Justice: This museum and memorial focus on the history of slavery, lynching, and segregation in the United States. The memorial features 800 hanging steel columns, each representing a county where a lynching took place.
Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church: This church is where Martin Luther King Jr. served as a pastor during the Montgomery Bus Boycott. Visitors can take a guided tour of the church and learn about its history.
Montgomery Zoo: The Montgomery Zoo is home to over 500 animals from around the world. Visitors can see tigers, giraffes, monkeys, and more.
Alabama Shakespeare Festival: The Alabama Shakespeare Festival is one of the largest Shakespeare festivals in the world. Visitors can see productions of Shakespearean plays and other classic plays.
Hank Williams Museum: Hank Williams was a country music legend and was born in Montgomery. The museum features exhibits on his life and career, as well as memorabilia such as his guitar and stage outfits.
Riverfront Park: This park is located along the Alabama River and has a beautiful walking trail, a splash pad for children, and picnic areas.
The Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum: This museum is located in the house where F. Scott Fitzgerald and his wife Zelda lived for a short time in the 1930s. Visitors can see exhibits on their lives and careers.
Overall, Montgomery has a rich history and culture, and there is plenty to see and do.
Best Time To Visit Montgomery
The best time to visit Montgomery is during the spring and fall seasons. The spring season, from March to May, offers pleasant temperatures with blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities. The fall season, from September to November, also offers mild temperatures and beautiful fall foliage.
Summers in Montgomery can be hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching above 90°F (32°C), and can be uncomfortable for some visitors. However, if you plan to visit during the summer months, make sure to stay hydrated and take breaks in air-conditioned places.
Winter in Montgomery is mild with occasional cold spells and occasional snow, but the weather can still be pleasant enough to explore outdoor attractions.
It is also worth considering any specific events or festivals that are happening in Montgomery when planning your visit. For instance, the Alabama Shakespeare Festival takes place during the summer, and the Montgomery Greek Festival is held in October, both of which are popular events in the city.
How to get around in Montgomery
Montgomery has several options for getting around the city. Here are some ways to get around in Montgomery:
Car: Renting a car is a convenient way to get around Montgomery. Many car rental agencies are available at the Montgomery Regional Airport and in the city.
Taxi: Taxis are available throughout Montgomery, and you can either hail one on the street or call for a pickup. Be sure to ask the fare before getting in the taxi.
Ride-sharing: Popular ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are available in Montgomery.
Public transportation: The Montgomery Area Transit System (MATS) operates bus services throughout the city. The fare is affordable, and the buses run on a regular schedule. The downtown trolley also offers a free shuttle service.
Biking: Montgomery has bike lanes and trails, making it a bike-friendly city. You can rent bikes from various locations, such as Montgomery Bike Share or Montgomery Multisport.
Walking: Montgomery’s downtown area is compact and walkable, with many attractions and restaurants within walking distance.
Overall, there are several options for getting around Montgomery, and the best mode of transportation will depend on your preferences and itinerary.
Where to eat in Montgomery
Montgomery offers a variety of dining options, ranging from classic Southern comfort food to international cuisine. Here are some of the best places to eat in Montgomery:
Central: This restaurant offers contemporary American cuisine with a Southern twist. Their menu changes seasonally, and they use locally sourced ingredients when possible.
Dreamland BBQ: Dreamland BBQ is a local favorite known for its hickory-smoked ribs, sausage, and chicken. They also offer Southern sides such as collard greens and baked beans.
Wintzell’s Oyster House: Wintzell’s Oyster House is a seafood restaurant that serves fresh Gulf Coast seafood. They are known for their oysters, which are served raw, grilled, or fried.
Cahawba House: This café serves breakfast and lunch with a focus on Southern cuisine. They offer dishes such as shrimp and grits, chicken and waffles, and biscuits and gravy.
Derk’s Filet & Vine: This restaurant is known for their sandwiches and specialty items such as filet mignon and homemade pimento cheese. They also offer a deli counter with a selection of meats and cheeses.
Isabella’s Cafe: Isabella’s Cafe is a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant that serves dishes such as hummus, falafel, and shawarma. They also offer vegetarian and vegan options.
El Rey Burrito Lounge: This Mexican restaurant offers a fun and casual atmosphere with a menu of burritos, tacos, and nachos. They also have a variety of margaritas and other cocktails.
Vintage Year: This upscale restaurant offers a fine-dining experience with a focus on French and Italian cuisine. They offer an extensive wine list and a range of dishes such as beef Wellington and seared duck breast.
Overall, Montgomery offers a range of dining options, and there is something for everyone.
Famous street stalls in Montgomery
Montgomery is not particularly well-known for its street food scene, but there are a few street stalls and food trucks that offer delicious local cuisine. Here are some of the most famous street stalls in Montgomery:
The Shrimp Box: This food truck serves Gulf Coast seafood, including fried shrimp, oysters, and catfish. The Shrimp Box is a popular choice for locals looking for a quick and tasty lunch.
El Taco Shop: This food truck offers a range of Mexican dishes such as tacos, burritos, and quesadillas. They are known for their generous portions and affordable prices.
The Hot Dog Lady: The Hot Dog Lady has been serving hot dogs and sausages on the streets of Montgomery for over 30 years. Her hot dogs are topped with a variety of condiments, including homemade chili.
Que Butter BBQ: This food truck offers barbecue ribs, chicken, and pulled pork. They are known for their sweet and spicy barbecue sauce.
Kona Ice: Kona Ice is a food truck that serves shaved ice with a variety of flavors. They are a popular choice for events and parties.
Overall, while Montgomery does not have a particularly famous street food scene, these street stalls and food trucks offer tasty and affordable options for locals and visitors alike.
Where to stay in Montgomery
Luxury accommodation
Montgomery has several luxury accommodations for visitors who want to enjoy a comfortable and luxurious stay. Here are some of the best luxury accommodations in Montgomery:
Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa at the Convention Center: This hotel is located in the heart of downtown Montgomery and offers spacious rooms with modern amenities. They also have an on-site spa, fitness center, and a rooftop pool.
The Westin Montgomery: This hotel is located in the city center and offers elegant rooms with premium bedding and luxurious bathrooms. They also have an on-site restaurant, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Montgomery Hotel & Conference Center: This hotel is located close to the Montgomery Regional Airport and offers spacious suites with separate living areas and modern amenities. They also have an on-site restaurant, a fitness center, and an indoor pool.
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Montgomery Downtown: This hotel is located in the heart of downtown Montgomery and offers modern rooms with premium bedding and city views. They also have an on-site restaurant, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool.
Montgomery Marriott Prattville Hotel & Conference Center at Capitol Hill: This hotel is located just outside of Montgomery and offers spacious rooms with elegant furnishings and modern amenities. They also have an on-site golf course, multiple restaurants, and an outdoor pool.
Overall, these luxury accommodations offer a range of amenities and services that ensure a comfortable and memorable stay in Montgomery.
Where to stay in Montgomery
Budget accommodation
Montgomery has several budget-friendly accommodations for visitors who want to enjoy the city without breaking the bank. Here are some of the best budget accommodations in Montgomery:
Red Roof Inn Montgomery Midtown: This budget hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi and cable TV. They also have a fitness center and a pool.
Comfort Inn Montgomery South: This budget hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi and breakfast. They also have a fitness center and a pool.
Motel 6 Montgomery: This budget motel offers basic rooms with free Wi-Fi and cable TV. They also have a seasonal outdoor pool.
Quality Inn & Suites: This budget hotel offers spacious rooms with free Wi-Fi and breakfast. They also have a fitness center and a pool.
Home2 Suites by Hilton Prattville: This budget hotel is located just outside of Montgomery and offers modern suites with kitchenettes and free Wi-Fi. They also have an on-site fitness center and laundry facilities.
Overall, these budget accommodations offer a comfortable and affordable option for visitors looking to explore Montgomery without breaking the bank.
Travel Tips Montgomery
Here are some travel tips to keep in mind when visiting Montgomery:
Wear comfortable shoes: Montgomery is a city that can be explored on foot, so it’s important to wear comfortable shoes. The downtown area is particularly walkable, and there are several parks and trails to explore.
Stay hydrated: Montgomery can get quite hot, especially in the summer months. It’s important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
Plan your visit around events: Montgomery hosts several events throughout the year, including the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, the Montgomery Biscuits baseball games, and the Montgomery Dragon Boat Races. Planning your visit around these events can add some excitement to your trip.
Respect history: Montgomery has a rich history, particularly related to the Civil Rights Movement. Visitors should be respectful when visiting historic sites and monuments, and take the time to learn about the city’s past.
Try local cuisine: Montgomery has a unique culinary scene that visitors should explore. From Southern comfort food to fresh seafood, there are plenty of delicious dishes to try.
Use public transportation: Montgomery has a public transportation system that includes buses and trolleys. Using public transportation can be a convenient and affordable way to get around the city.
Pack for the weather: Montgomery can experience hot and humid summers and mild winters. Make sure to check the weather forecast and pack accordingly.
Overall, Montgomery is a city that offers plenty of opportunities for exploration and adventure. By following these travel tips, visitors can have a memorable and enjoyable trip to Montgomery.