Freedom Riders National Monument: A Pivotal Stand for Civil Rights
Explore the sites where the Freedom Riders faced violent opposition in their fight against segregation, and reflect on their lasting impact on civil rights.
Commemorating the courageous 1961 Freedom Riders, this national monument in Anniston, Alabama, marks sites where activists challenging segregation faced violent attacks. Visit the former Greyhound bus station and the bus burning site to reflect on their pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement.
A brief summary to Freedom Riders National Monument
- 1031 Gurnee Ave, Anniston, Alabama, 36201, US
- Visit website
- Friday 9 am-4 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4 pm
- Sunday 9 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit both the Greyhound Bus Station and the Bus Burning Site to gain a comprehensive understanding of the events.
- Check out the Anniston Civil Rights and Heritage Trail, which includes other landmarks associated with the struggle for civil rights in Anniston [4, 6].
- The outdoor exhibits are open 24 hours, allowing you to visit at any time [7, 13].
Getting There
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Walking
If you are already in downtown Anniston, the former Greyhound Bus Station is easily accessible on foot [6]. From Noble Street, head east towards Gurnee Avenue. The station is located at the corner of East Eleventh Street and Gurnee Avenue [6]. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes from the main downtown area [6].
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Driving
From I-20, take exit 185 to Alabama State Hwy 21 North. Turn left on East Eighth Street, then right on Gurnee Avenue [12]. The Greyhound Station is located at the corner of East Eleventh Street and Gurnee Avenue [12]. Parking is limited to street parking [5]. Consider parking on Noble Street, which offers two hours of free parking [7, 16]. To reach the Bus Burning Site from the Greyhound station, take Alabama Highway 202 West and turn left onto Old Birmingham Highway [12]. The site is located at the junction of Highway 202 and Old Birmingham Highway [12]. Parking is limited to gravel patches along Old Birmingham Highway [7, 12]. Use caution when crossing or walking along the roadways [12].