Alabama State Capitol: A Seat of History
Explore Alabama's pivotal landmark: from Confederate origins to Civil Rights milestones, history unfolds in this iconic capitol.
The Alabama State Capitol in Montgomery is a historic landmark with Greek Revival architecture, serving as a museum of state history and politics. It was the first capitol of the Confederacy and the site where the Selma to Montgomery march concluded, making it a pivotal location in both Civil War and Civil Rights history.
A brief summary to Alabama State Capitol
- Montgomery, Alabama, 36104, US
- +1334-242-3935
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit on a weekday for a less crowded experience and to ensure all areas are open to the public.
- Take a guided tour for a more in-depth understanding of the Capitol's history and significance; contact the tour office in advance to book.
- Explore the grounds to view the various monuments and memorials that offer additional historical context.
- Check out the Goat Hill Museum Store inside the Capitol for unique Alabama-made gifts and souvenirs.
Getting There
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Walking
From the intersection of Dexter Avenue and Perry Street in downtown Montgomery, walk east on Dexter Avenue towards the Capitol. The Capitol is located at the end of Dexter Avenue on top of Capitol Hill, approximately a 5-10 minute walk. The main entrance faces Dexter Avenue.
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Public Transport
The Montgomery Area Transit System (MATS) provides bus service to the Alabama State Capitol. Several bus lines, including routes 1, 2, 4, 5, and 8, stop near the Capitol. From the Intermodal Transfer Center, take any of these bus lines and get off at the stops closest to Alabama State Capitol Building, such as Bainbridge & Adams (4 min walk). A single ride fare is $1.25.
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Driving
From I-85, take Exit 1 (Court Street) and continue on Arba Street. Turn left on Union Street and merge into the far-right lane. The Capitol is located on the left. Metered street parking is available around the Capitol for $0.50 per hour, limited to two hours. Free parking is available at Cramton Bowl Stadium or Paterson Field. Parking garages are also available, such as the Alabama Center for Commerce Parking Deck.
Discover more about Alabama State Capitol
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Capitol Historic Building Tour
0.0 km
Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of the Alabama State Capitol, a must-visit landmark in Montgomery that tells the story of a state.
Flame of Freedom
0.0 km
A war memorial on the Alabama State Capitol grounds honoring the state's veterans and their sacrifices for freedom.
Confederate Memorial Monument
0.1 km
Visit the Confederate Memorial Monument in Montgomery, AL, and explore a significant historical landmark commemorating the valor of Confederate soldiers during the Civil War.
Alabama Bicentennial Park
0.2 km
Explore Alabama's history through art at this downtown Montgomery park commemorating 200 years of statehood with compelling sculptures and narratives.
The Dowe Houses
0.4 km
Explore the Dowe Houses, a historic gem in Montgomery, Alabama, showcasing Southern architecture and rich cultural heritage.
The Jackson-Community House
0.5 km
Discover the Jackson-Community House in Montgomery, a landmark of African American resilience and a hub for civil rights activism.
Lucas Tavern
0.5 km
Explore the rich history of Montgomery at Lucas Tavern, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving local heritage through engaging tours and events.
Abram Mordecai Historical Marker
0.6 km
Explore the Abram Mordecai Historical Marker in Montgomery, Alabama, a tribute to cultural heritage and a significant figure in the region's history.
Alabama Historical Tours
0.7 km
Discover Alabama's rich heritage at Old Alabama Town in Montgomery, a captivating living history museum showcasing 19th-century life through authentic, restored buildings and engaging stories.
Unmissable attractions to see
The First White House of the Confederacy
0.1 km
Step back in time at President Jefferson Davis's Montgomery home, showcasing original 1850s-60s furnishings and Confederate history.
Museum of Alabama
0.2 km
Explore Alabama's captivating history from prehistoric times to the 21st century at the Museum of Alabama in downtown Montgomery. Free admission!
Alabama Department of Archives & History
0.2 km
Explore Alabama's rich history at the Alabama Department of Archives and History, home to the Museum of Alabama and extensive research collections.
AlabamaMosaic
0.2 km
Explore Alabama's history and culture through digitized collections of photos, documents, and stories at this unique online repository.
Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church
0.2 km
Visit the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church, a cornerstone of the Civil Rights Movement and the site where Martin Luther King Jr. led change.
The MOOseum
0.3 km
Explore Alabama's beef cattle industry through interactive exhibits and hands-on learning at The MOOseum in Montgomery. A fun and educational experience for all ages!
Civil Rights Memorial
0.3 km
Reflect on the heroes and events of the Civil Rights Movement at this moving memorial in Montgomery, Alabama. A testament to the fight for equality and justice.
Civil Rights Memorial Center
0.3 km
Reflect on the Civil Rights Movement at this moving memorial honoring the martyrs and inspiring a continued march toward racial equity and justice.
Dexter Parsonage Museum
0.6 km
Walk in the footsteps of Martin Luther King Jr. at this preserved landmark of the Civil Rights Movement in Montgomery, Alabama.
Old Alabama Town
0.7 km
Discover 19th-century Alabama life through restored homes, workplaces, and community buildings in Montgomery's historic Old Alabama Town.
Landmarks Foundation of Montgomery
0.7 km
Discover Alabama's heritage: Explore meticulously restored 19th & 20th-century buildings in a captivating living history museum in downtown Montgomery.
Rosa Parks Bus Stop
0.8 km
Visit the Rosa Parks Bus Stop in Montgomery, AL, and reflect on a moment that sparked the Civil Rights Movement.
Freedom Rides Museum
0.9 km
Explore the pivotal story of the 1961 Freedom Rides at the Montgomery Greyhound Bus Station, where courage and nonviolent protest changed American history.
The Legacy Museum
0.9 km
Explore America's history of racial injustice, from slavery to mass incarceration, through immersive exhibits and powerful narratives at the Legacy Museum.
The Hank Williams Museum
1.0 km
Experience the life and legacy of country music icon Hank Williams at his Montgomery museum, featuring his Cadillac, stage suits, and personal memorabilia.
Essential places to dine
Farmers Market Cafe
0.7 km
Experience authentic Southern flavors at Farmers Market Cafe in Montgomery - where every meal feels like home.
Island Delight
0.7 km
Discover authentic Jamaican flavors at Island Delight in Montgomery - where every dish tells a story.
Davis Cafe
0.7 km
Experience the heartwarming flavors of Southern cuisine at Davis Cafe in Montgomery - where every meal tells a story.
Cahawba House
0.8 km
Experience authentic Southern breakfasts at Cahawba House, where each dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Ravello Ristorante
0.9 km
Experience authentic Italian fine dining at Ravello Ristorante in Montgomery, AL—where exquisite flavors meet elegant ambiance.
D'Road Cafe
0.9 km
Experience authentic Venezuelan flavors at D'Road Cafe in downtown Montgomery - a must-visit breakfast destination!
Kinsmith
0.9 km
Experience Southern hospitality at Kinsmith, where diverse flavors meet inviting ambiance in the heart of Montgomery.
Plant Bae
0.9 km
Discover Plant Bae in Montgomery - where delicious vegan dishes meet sustainable practices in a welcoming atmosphere.
Waterworks Rooftop Restaurant and Bar
0.9 km
Experience stunning skyline views while savoring delicious cuisine at Montgomery's premier rooftop restaurant and bar.
Dreamland BBQ
0.9 km
Experience the authentic taste of Southern barbecue at Dreamland BBQ in Montgomery - where every bite tells a story.
Pannie-George's Kitchen Inc - Montgomery
1.0 km
Discover authentic Southern flavors at Pannie-George's Kitchen Inc in Montgomery - A must-visit restaurant for culinary enthusiasts.
Taste Too
1.0 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of America at Taste Too in Montgomery – where every meal is crafted with passion.
Central Restaurant
1.0 km
Discover exquisite Traditional American cuisine at Central Restaurant in Montgomery - where culinary artistry meets elegant dining.
SaZa Serious Italian Food
1.0 km
Experience the essence of Italy at SaZa Serious Italian Food in Montgomery – where every bite tells a story.
Wintzell's Oyster House
1.0 km
Experience authentic Gulf Coast cuisine at Wintzell's Oyster House – Montgomery's premier destination for fresh oysters and seafood delicacies.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Goat Hill Museum Store
0.1 km
Explore the Goat Hill Museum Store in Montgomery, Alabama, for unique gifts and treasures that showcase the state's rich culture and artistry.
Bits N Pieces
0.2 km
Explore Bits N Pieces in Montgomery, AL for unique gifts and local treasures that capture the essence of Alabama's culture and charm.
Alabama Tourism Gift Shop
0.3 km
Explore Alabama's rich culture and history at the Tourism Gift Shop, your go-to destination for unique souvenirs and local treasures.
AfriAmeri Gift Shop
0.7 km
Explore the vibrant culture of Africa at AfriAmeri Gift Shop - a unique destination for authentic African crafts and gifts in Montgomery, Alabama.
Looking Good
0.7 km
Explore Montgomery's fashion scene at Looking Good, the ultimate destination for stylish men's clothing and accessories.
Weil's Inc
0.7 km
Explore Weil's Inc in Montgomery for a stylish selection of men's clothing, where quality meets fashion in a welcoming atmosphere.
Tours of Montgomery
0.7 km
Discover the heart of Montgomery with unique souvenirs reflecting the rich culture and history of Alabama at Tours of Montgomery.
Naturally Necessary Soaps & Co
0.7 km
Explore Montgomery's Naturally Necessary Soaps & Co for exquisite handmade soaps and natural skincare treasures that capture the essence of local artistry.
Keller Boutique
0.8 km
Discover the charm of Southern fashion at Keller Boutique in Montgomery, Alabama, featuring unique styles and personalized service for every shopper.
Besties Boutique(shopbestiess)
0.8 km
Explore Besties Boutique in Montgomery for unique fashion pieces and delightful gifts that showcase Southern charm and style.
The BeYOUtiful Boutiques
0.8 km
Explore The BeYOUtiful Boutiques for stylish women's clothing and unique plus-size fashion in Montgomery, Alabama.
Trenae's Boutique
1.3 km
Explore Trenae's Boutique in Montgomery, AL for unique fashion accessories, clothing, and local artistry that define Southern elegance.
Limitless Options Boutique
1.4 km
Explore Limitless Options Boutique in Montgomery, AL, where unique women's fashion meets Southern charm in a delightful shopping experience.
Capitol Heights Mini Mart
1.7 km
Discover the convenience of Capitol Heights Mini Mart, your one-stop shop for snacks, drinks, and essential services in Montgomery, Alabama.
Capital Parkway Shopping Center
1.8 km
Discover shopping bliss at Capital Parkway Shopping Center in Montgomery, Alabama, where retail therapy meets local charm and delicious dining.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
23 Court
0.8 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and craft cocktails of 23 Court, Montgomery's premier bar for socializing and relaxation.
The Statesman
0.8 km
Experience the best of Montgomery's nightlife at The Statesman, where expertly crafted cocktails meet a chic and inviting atmosphere.
Bar Attico
0.9 km
Discover the heart of Montgomery's cocktail culture at Bar Attico, where vibrant drinks meet a lively atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.
The Alley
1.0 km
Explore The Alley in Montgomery, Alabama, a vibrant entertainment district filled with lively bars, restaurants, and cultural experiences for every tourist.
AlleyBAR
1.0 km
Discover AlleyBAR in Montgomery, AL - a lively bar with live music, offering a unique blend of local culture and vibrant nightlife for an unforgettable experience.
Aviator Bar
1.1 km
Experience Montgomery's vibrant nightlife at Aviator Bar, where craft cocktails and live music create an unforgettable atmosphere.
Lower Lounge
1.1 km
Discover Montgomery's Lower Lounge, a chic cocktail bar offering expertly crafted drinks and a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.
Tower Taproom
1.1 km
Discover Tower Taproom in Montgomery, a vibrant beer hall with an extensive craft beer selection and delicious gourmet burgers perfect for foodies and beer lovers.
VIP Hookah Lounge
1.1 km
Discover relaxation and vibrant nightlife at VIP Hookah Lounge, Montgomery's premier hookah bar and social hotspot.
The Exchange Bar
1.1 km
Experience the charm of Montgomery at The Exchange Bar, a stylish lounge offering exquisite cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere for relaxation and socializing.
Red Bluff Bar at the Silos
1.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Montgomery at Red Bluff Bar at the Silos, where Southern hospitality meets delightful grilled cuisine.
Hilltop Public House
1.5 km
Discover Hilltop Public House in Montgomery: A delightful bar and café offering an array of delicious bagels, coffee, cocktails, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Rob's Pockets
1.8 km
Discover the laid-back charm of Rob's Pockets, a local bar in Montgomery, Alabama, known for its friendly atmosphere and affordable drinks.
KRU on Mt. Meigs
2.1 km
Discover KRU on Mt. Meigs, Montgomery's premier bar offering crafted cocktails and vibrant nightlife amidst a welcoming atmosphere.
Pine Bar Old Cloverdale
2.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delightful drinks at Pine Bar Old Cloverdale, a must-visit bar in Montgomery, Alabama for tourists and locals alike.