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The Legacy Museum: From Enslavement to Mass Incarceration

Explore America's history of racial injustice through immersive exhibits at this powerful and thought-provoking museum in Montgomery, Alabama.

4.9

Located in Montgomery, Alabama, The Legacy Museum unflinchingly explores the history of slavery and racial injustice in America, from the era of enslavement to mass incarceration. Through immersive exhibits, first-person narratives, and powerful visuals, the museum connects the past with contemporary issues, challenging visitors to confront the legacy of racial inequality.

A brief summary to The Legacy Museum

  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Allow ample time, at least 3-5 hours, to fully experience the museum's impactful exhibits and multimedia presentations.
  • Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid potential lines and ensure timed entry, especially during peak season.
  • Take advantage of the free shuttle service to visit the National Memorial for Peace and Justice and the Freedom Monument Sculpture Park, also included in your admission.
  • Be prepared for an emotionally intense experience, as the museum confronts difficult and sensitive topics related to racial injustice.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From many downtown Montgomery locations, such as the Rosa Parks Museum or the Civil Rights Memorial, The Legacy Museum is easily accessible on foot. Head north on N Court Street. The museum will be on your left, approximately a 10-15 minute walk. Look for the Legacy Pavilion, which houses the welcome center, ticket office, and free parking.

  • Public Transport

    Montgomery Area Transit (The M) offers bus routes that stop near the Legacy Museum. From the Intermodal Transfer Center, several routes will get you within a few blocks of the museum. A single ride fare is $2.

  • Driving

    If driving, use GPS to navigate to 400 N Court St, Montgomery, AL 36104. Free parking is available at the Legacy Pavilion. Note that parking can fill up quickly during peak hours.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout Montgomery. A short ride from downtown hotels or other attractions to The Legacy Museum will typically cost between $8 and $15, depending on distance and demand. Be sure to confirm the fare before you start your trip.

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Discover more about The Legacy Museum

The Legacy Museum stands on the site of a former cotton warehouse where enslaved Black people were forced to labor, a chilling reminder of Montgomery's role as a major hub in the domestic slave trade. Founded by the Equal Justice Initiative (EJI), the museum presents a comprehensive narrative of racial injustice, spanning from the transatlantic slave trade to the present-day crisis of mass incarceration. Inside, visitors encounter replicas of slave pens and powerful audio-visual displays that recreate the experience of those awaiting auction. Exhibits delve into the horrors of lynching and the dehumanizing effects of Jim Crow laws, highlighting the systemic violence and discrimination faced by African Americans. The museum also draws connections between historical injustices and contemporary issues such as police violence and racial bias in the criminal justice system. The Legacy Museum utilizes interactive media, historical research, and world-class art to engage visitors and promote a deeper understanding of America's racial past. The museum's exhibits include first-person accounts, archival materials, and data-rich displays that expose the harsh realities of slavery and its enduring consequences. The museum also provides information on racial lynchings and the domestic slave trade. A visit to the Legacy Museum is an emotional and thought-provoking experience, encouraging reflection on the ongoing struggle for racial equality and justice.

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