Edmund Pettus Bridge: A Civil Rights Landmark
Walk in the footsteps of history on the Edmund Pettus Bridge, a pivotal landmark of the Civil Rights Movement in Selma, Alabama.
The Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama, is an iconic symbol of the Civil Rights Movement, most notably for the events of 'Bloody Sunday' in 1965. Visitors can walk in the footsteps of civil rights marchers and reflect on the bridge's profound historical significance.
A brief summary to Edmund Pettus Bridge
- Selma, Alabama, 36703, US
- +1800-457-3562
Local tips
- Walk across the bridge to experience the history and reflect on the events of Bloody Sunday [3, 6].
- Visit the Selma Interpretive Center at the foot of the bridge to learn more about the Selma to Montgomery marches [3, 4, 12].
- Explore the nearby National Voting Rights Museum and Institute for an in-depth look at the struggle for voting rights [3, 4, 12].
- Consider visiting Brown Chapel AME Church, a historic meeting place for civil rights leaders [12, 18].
Getting There
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Walking
From downtown Selma, the Edmund Pettus Bridge is easily accessible on foot [4]. Head south on Broad Street toward the Alabama River. The bridge will be directly in front of you [4]. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes from most downtown locations, including the Selma Interpretive Center and the National Voting Rights Museum [4]. There are sidewalks on both sides of Broad Street leading to the bridge [4].
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Driving
If driving from outside of Selma, follow U.S. Highway 80 Business (US 80 Bus.) into downtown [4]. US 80 Bus becomes Broad Street [4]. Continue on Broad Street, and the Edmund Pettus Bridge will be directly ahead as you approach the Alabama River [4]. Limited street parking is available near the bridge [4]. Additional parking can be found in downtown Selma, a short walk away [4]. Be aware of parking regulations and time limits [4].
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Public Transport
Public transportation options in Selma are limited [4, 13]. However, regional bus services may connect Selma to other cities [4, 13]. From the Selma Greyhound Bus Station, taxis or rideshare services like Uber and Lyft can provide a ride to the Edmund Pettus Bridge, located downtown on Water Avenue [4, 13]. A short taxi or rideshare ride will cost approximately $5 - $10 [4].
Discover more about Edmund Pettus Bridge
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Organpi Farms Farmhouse
0.1 km
Explore the bounty of Selma at Organpi Farms Farmhouse, where fresh produce meets local flavor and community spirit.
Queen City Kale
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Experience the flavors of Selma at Queen City Kale, where fresh ingredients and creative dishes come together in a vibrant setting.
Bridgetender's House
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Step back in time at the Bridgetender's House in Selma, AL – a historic cottage with stunning river views and a rich past.
St. James Hotel Selma, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
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Experience Southern charm at St. James Hotel Selma, where history meets modern comfort along the beautiful Alabama River.
Sleeping Prophet Edgar Cayce Memorial
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Explore the Edgar Cayce Memorial in Selma, Alabama, a historic landmark celebrating the legacy of America's most famous clairvoyant and his insights on spirituality and healing.
905 Gallery
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Discover curated Southern art at Gallery 905 in Selma, Alabama, where community and creativity thrive.
The Coffee Shoppe
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Temple Mishkan Israel
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Mabry-Jones House
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Riverview Historic District
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John Tyler Morgan House
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Icehouse Historic District
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Discover the rich history and architectural beauty of the Icehouse Historic District in Selma, Alabama—a must-visit for history enthusiasts and curious travelers.
Edmundite Missions
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Lannie's Bar-B-Q Spot
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Bloch Park
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Unmissable attractions to see
Selma Interpretive Center of the Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail
0.2 km
Discover the starting point of the historic Selma to Montgomery march, a pivotal landmark in the Civil Rights Movement.
Civil Rights Memorial Park
0.3 km
Reflect on the courageous fight for equality at Selma's Civil Rights Memorial Park, honoring pivotal events and figures of the movement.
National Voting Rights Museum and Institute
0.4 km
Explore the pivotal history of the Voting Rights Movement in Selma, AL, honoring the brave activists who fought for equality. A must-see Civil Rights landmark.
Enslavement & Civil War Museum
0.4 km
Explore the compelling history of African Americans from ancient Africa through enslavement and the Civil War at this Selma museum.
Bridge Crossing Jubilee
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Commemorating the Selma to Montgomery marches and the Voting Rights Act, honoring civil rights history and the fight for equality.
Historic Riverfront Park
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Explore Selma's Historic Riverfront Park: A scenic waterfront park with Civil Rights history, river views, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Old Depot Museum
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Explore Selma's vibrant history at the Old Depot Museum, from Native American artifacts to the Civil Rights Movement.
Old Town Historic District
0.6 km
Explore Selma's Old Town Historic District: A journey through time, architecture, and the heart of the Civil Rights Movement.
Vaughan Smitherman Museum
0.7 km
Explore Selma's vibrant past within the walls of this historic Greek Revival landmark, from Civil War relics to hospital artifacts.
Brown Chapel AME Church
0.8 km
Visit the historic Brown Chapel AME Church in Selma, Alabama, a pivotal landmark in the Civil Rights Movement and the fight for voting rights.
Sturdivant Hall Museum
1.3 km
Experience the grandeur of the Old South at Sturdivant Hall, a beautifully preserved Greek Revival mansion in historic Selma, Alabama.
Tabernacle Baptist Church
1.7 km
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New Live Oak Cemetery
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Discover Selma's past in a serene setting, where history and nature intertwine among the monuments and ancient trees of New Live Oak Cemetery.
Lions Fair Park
5.1 km
A community hub in Selma, Alabama, hosting the annual Central Alabama Fair and various local events.
Old Cahawba Archaeological Park
12.5 km
Explore Alabama's first capital, a ghost town where history and nature intertwine. Discover ruins, trails, and stories of the past.
Essential places to dine
Reflections Coffee Shoppe
0.1 km
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Gab n grab
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Sterling's
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Munch Box
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Macks Amillion Daiquiri shop
0.3 km
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Xpression
0.4 km
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Bistro Manila (and Boba Manila)
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Experience authentic Filipino cuisine and delicious bubble tea at Bistro Manila in Selma, Alabama – where every meal tells a story.
The Downtowner Restaurant
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Experience family-friendly dining at The Downtowner Restaurant in Selma – where delicious comfort food meets warm hospitality.
5 & Dime
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MK87
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Dallas Bar-B-Que
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Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Dallas Bar-B-Que in Selma - where smoky flavors meet hearty hospitality.
Hickory Pit
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Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Hickory Pit in Selma – where smoky flavors meet warm hospitality.
Church's Texas Chicken
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Hibachi Xpress
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Experience authentic hibachi cuisine at Hibachi Xpress in Selma – fresh ingredients and skilled chefs create memorable meals.
Pizza Hut Express
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Broad Street Books
0.2 km
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On Time Fashions
0.3 km
Discover the latest trends in men's fashion at On Time Fashions, Selma's go-to destination for stylish clothing and accessories.
This & That
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Cotton House
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Discover Cotton House in Selma, Alabama - a boutique clothing store offering unique fashion pieces and a warm shopping experience.
Snack Store
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Explore Selma's Snack Store for quick bites, refreshments, and local products in a convenient, friendly setting.
Lex Couture Boutique
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Discover elegance and style at Lex Couture Boutique in Selma, Alabama, your destination for bridal gowns, tuxedos, and formal wear.
Queen City Market
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Odds and Ends Gift Shop
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allez-oup
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Spiller Furniture Co
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Selma Curb Market
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Johnny's Package Store
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Express Shop
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The Salvation Army Family Store
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Cupcake Shop
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Sparkle's Saloon
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Dripz Lounge
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Dallas County
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Southern Comfort Lounge
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XPLOSION
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Dallas County Moose Lodge 1737
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Michael's Pub
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King Bar
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Mary Taylor Bar
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Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious seafood at Mary Taylor Bar, a hidden gem in Alabama's coastal beauty.
Mitchell Bar
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Upper Sister Bar
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Rifleman Bar
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Middle Sister Bar
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Providence Bar
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Upper Portland Bar
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