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Museum of East Alabama: A Portal to the Past

Explore 5,000+ artifacts showcasing East Alabama's history, from Native American heritage to WWII stories, in Opelika's historic downtown.

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Discover the rich tapestry of East Alabama's history at this Opelika museum. With over 5,000 artifacts, exhibits showcase everything from Native American heritage to WWII memorabilia, offering a glimpse into the region's cultural evolution.

A brief summary to Museum of East Alabama

  • Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-4 pm
  • Friday 10 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 2 pm-4 pm

Local tips

  • Check the museum's website or call ahead for information on special events and rotating exhibitions.
  • Allow at least one hour to explore the museum's exhibits fully [7].
  • Visit during the week for a quieter experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Museum of East Alabama is located in downtown Opelika at 121 S 9th St [3, 7]. If you are already in the downtown area, simply head towards the Lee County Courthouse Square; the museum is adjacent to it [4, 8]. The museum is easily accessible on foot from most points in downtown.

  • Public Transport

    For those using public transportation, check for local bus services operating in your area that connect to the Opelika Transit Center [3]. From the Transit Center, Route 1 runs close to S 9th St [3]. Get off at the nearest stop and walk to 121 S 9th St. Check the bus schedule beforehand, as services may be limited, especially on weekends. A single fare on Opelika's public transit is typically around $1.25.

  • Driving

    If arriving by car, navigate to 121 S 9th St, Opelika, AL 36801 [3]. The museum is located in Opelika's downtown historic district [4, 6, 8]. From Auburn, take US-280 E, exit toward AL-51 S, merge onto AL-51 S, and turn left onto S 9th St [3]. Parking is available nearby, though a small fee may apply [3]. Metered street parking is available around the courthouse square. Expect to pay around $1 per hour for parking.

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Discover more about Museum of East Alabama

The Museum of East Alabama, located in the heart of Opelika's historic downtown, offers a captivating journey through the region's past [3, 6, 8]. Established in 1989 on the site of the former Clement Hotel, the museum houses over 5,000 artifacts that bring to life the history of Opelika, East Alabama, and the state [4, 6, 8]. The museum's exhibits span centuries, showcasing the diverse heritage of the area [4, 6]. Highlights include Native American artifacts, offering insights into the lives of the region's original inhabitants, and Civil War memorabilia, providing a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during this tumultuous period [6, 11]. Exhibits also explore the region's agricultural heritage, featuring tools and techniques that sustained generations of farmers [6]. Visitors can also explore exhibits on Camp Opelika, a World War II prisoner-of-war camp that housed German soldiers [6, 9, 12]. Other noteworthy items include a mule-drawn carriage from the 19th century, donated by an African-American family, and a model of the Salem-Shotwell covered bridge [6, 13]. The museum also features exhibits on the history of sound recording technology and a Dairyland bike exhibit [7, 13]. The museum's outdoor mural, created by Christoph Johnson, depicts people and historic elements central to the region [4]. With its engaging exhibits and knowledgeable staff, the Museum of East Alabama offers an enriching experience for visitors of all ages [10].

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