Dexter Parsonage Museum, Hill Country Travel Guide

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Explore the home of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and a pivotal landmark of the Civil Rights Movement in Montgomery, Alabama.

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Dexter Parsonage Museum

Step back in time at the Dexter Parsonage Museum, the former home of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in Montgomery, Alabama, from 1954 to 1960. This preserved landmark offers a glimpse into his life, the Civil Rights Movement, and the struggles for equality.

A brief summary to Dexter Parsonage Museum

309 S Jackson St, Montgomery, Alabama, 36104, US
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Friday 12 pm-4 pm
Saturday 10 am-4 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Dexter Parsonage Museum.

Check the museum's website for updated hours and tour schedules, as they may vary.
Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours for a thorough tour and exploration of the museum, interpretive center, and reflection garden.
Consider combining your visit with a trip to the nearby Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church for a more complete historical experience.

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Explore Dexter Parsonage Museum on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Dexter Parsonage Museum, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

The Dexter Parsonage Museum is located within walking distance of several other historical sites in downtown Montgomery. From the Alabama State Capitol, head east on Dexter Avenue toward Bainbridge Street, then turn right onto S Jackson Street. Walk approximately four blocks south. The Dexter Parsonage Museum will be on your left. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, from the Civil Rights Memorial, walk north on N Hull Street, turn right onto Washington Avenue, then turn left onto S Jackson Street. The Museum will be on your right after a few blocks.
Public Transport

From the Montgomery Transfer Center, take the Montgomery Area Transit System (MATS) bus route that goes to the South Jackson Street stop. Check the MATS website for the most up-to-date route information and schedules. A single ride fare is $1.25 [https://www.montgomeryal.gov/city-government/departments/transportation/montgomery-area-transit-system-mats].
Driving

If driving, navigate to 309 S Jackson St, Montgomery, AL 36104. From I-85, take the Union St exit and follow signs to downtown. Turn onto High Street, then left onto S Jackson Street. From I-65, take the Clay Street exit, which becomes Herron Street, then Bibb Street, and finally Madison Avenue. Turn right onto S Jackson Street. Limited street parking is available near the museum. Several parking lots are located within a few blocks, with hourly rates typically ranging from $1 to $2. Metered street parking costs around $1 per hour.

Discover more about Dexter Parsonage Museum

The Dexter Parsonage Museum, located in the heart of Montgomery, Alabama, stands as a powerful testament to the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the pivotal role the city played in the American Civil Rights Movement. Situated at 309 S Jackson Street, this historic house served as the home for Dr. King, his wife Coretta Scott King, and their young family during his impactful leadership as pastor of the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church.The two-story clapboard house, built in 1912, was purchased by the church in 1919 to serve as a residence for its pastors. The parsonage witnessed both the joys and the hardships of the King family as they navigated the turbulent waters of the Civil Rights Movement. It was here that Dr. King strategized, wrote, and found solace amidst the escalating tensions of the era. The house has been meticulously restored to reflect its appearance during the King's residency, furnished with period pieces, many of which were actually used by the King family. Visitors can explore the various rooms, including the living room, dining room, bedrooms, and Dr. King's study, offering an intimate glimpse into their daily lives and providing a tangible connection to the past.One of the most poignant aspects of the museum is the visible evidence of the violence and hatred the King family endured. In January 1956, during the Montgomery Bus Boycott, the parsonage was bombed. Visitors can see the remnants of the bombing, a stark reminder of the challenges and dangers faced by the King family. The adjacent Interpretive Center features exhibits that chronicle the events of the Montgomery Bus Boycott, the role of the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church in the movement, and the lives of the twelve pastors who resided in the parsonage from 1920 to 1992. The exhibits include photographs, documents, and artifacts that bring the stories of the past to life. The King-Johns Garden for Reflection, located on the grounds of the museum, provides a serene space for contemplation and remembrance.