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Old Alabama Town: A Journey Through Time

Discover Alabama's heritage in a living history museum: Explore restored buildings and experience the stories of early Alabamians in downtown Montgomery.

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Step back in time at Old Alabama Town, a living history museum in Montgomery, Alabama, showcasing 19th and early 20th-century life. Explore restored homes, businesses, and community buildings that depict the lives of Alabamians from a bygone era across six city blocks.

A brief summary to Old Alabama Town

Local tips

  • Visit on the second Saturday of the month for free admission and a chance to experience Old Alabama Town without the usual entry fee.
  • Check the Old Alabama Town website for special events and demonstrations, which offer a more immersive and interactive experience.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces throughout the six-block area.
  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the site and take in all the exhibits and historical information.
  • Consider taking a guided tour of the Ordeman-Mitchell-Shaw Townhouse for an in-depth look at the lives of a prominent 19th-century family.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Alabama State Capitol, head north on N Hull St for approximately three blocks. Turn left onto Columbus St. Old Alabama Town will be on your left. The entrance and visitor center are located at the Loeb Reception Center, 301 Columbus Street. This is about a 10-15 minute walk. Consider the weather, as there is minimal shade along the route.

  • Public Transport

    Montgomery Area Transit System (The M) offers bus service near Old Alabama Town. Check the M's website or app for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. Several bus routes stop within a few blocks of the attraction. From the nearest bus stop, follow the walking directions to reach the entrance. A single ride on The M costs $1.50.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Montgomery. Request a ride to 301 Columbus St, Montgomery, AL 36104. The fare from downtown Montgomery typically ranges from $8 to $12, depending on traffic and demand.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to 301 Columbus St, Montgomery, AL 36104. Limited street parking is available on N Hull Street and N Decatur Street, as well as in the Old Alabama Town parking area. Parking fees vary, but expect to pay around $5-$10 for a few hours. Be aware that parking can be limited during peak tourist season and special events.

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Discover more about Old Alabama Town

Old Alabama Town, located in the heart of downtown Montgomery, is a captivating journey into Alabama's past. This unique outdoor history museum spans six city blocks and features over 50 carefully preserved and restored buildings dating from the 19th and early 20th centuries. These structures, rescued from across central Alabama, offer visitors a tangible connection to the lives of those who shaped the region. Founded in 1967, the Landmarks Foundation of Montgomery embarked on a mission to preserve Alabama's architectural and historical heritage. Their first major project was the acquisition and restoration of the Ordeman-Mitchell-Shaw Townhouse, an elegant Italianate residence dating back to the 1850s. This townhouse, along with its outbuildings and grounds, became the cornerstone of Old Alabama Town, opening to the public in 1971. As you stroll through Old Alabama Town, you'll encounter a diverse collection of buildings that reflect the social and economic fabric of the time. Explore the Lucas Tavern, the oldest surviving building in Montgomery County, where General Lafayette once stayed. Visit a one-room schoolhouse, imagining the lessons and lives of students from a century ago. Step inside a working grist mill and witness the process of grinding grain, a vital task for early communities. See relocated slave dwellings, offering a somber reminder of a dark chapter in American history. The Ordeman-Mitchell-Shaw Townhouse stands as a testament to the affluence and refinement of Montgomery's elite. Pioneer cabins, simple cottages, and working-class homes offer a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of those who settled and developed the region. Old Alabama Town is more than just a collection of buildings; it's a living history museum where you can engage with the past through interactive exhibits, demonstrations, and special events. Knowledgeable guides bring the stories of early Alabamians to life, sharing insights into their daily lives, challenges, and triumphs.

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