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Freedom Rides Museum: A Stand for Equality

Explore the pivotal story of the Freedom Riders at the Montgomery Greyhound Bus Station, now a museum dedicated to civil rights history.

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Housed in the former Montgomery Greyhound Bus Station, the Freedom Rides Museum commemorates the courageous activists who challenged segregation in 1961. The museum uses exhibits, artwork, and personal stories to share the history of the Freedom Rides and their impact on the Civil Rights Movement.

A brief summary to Freedom Rides Museum

  • Tuesday 11 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 11 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 11 am-4 pm
  • Friday 11 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to fully experience the museum's exhibits and absorb the historical significance of the site.
  • Consider watching the PBS documentary "Freedom Riders" before your visit to gain a deeper understanding of the historical context.
  • Combine your visit with other nearby civil rights landmarks, such as the Civil Rights Memorial and the Rosa Parks Museum, for a comprehensive experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Alabama State Capitol, head south on Dexter Avenue towards Court Street. Turn right onto Court Street. The Freedom Rides Museum will be on your right, a short walk of approximately 3 blocks. This is a straightforward walk through downtown Montgomery.

  • Driving

    From I-65, take Exit 172 (Clay Street). Stay straight on Dickerson Street. Take a left on Herron Street (which becomes Bibb Street). Turn right on Lee Street (which becomes Court Street). The Freedom Rides Museum is up the hill on the right. Metered parking is available directly across from the museum's entrance. Metered parking is free on Saturdays. Parking fees typically range from $1 to $2 per hour.

  • Public Transport

    The Montgomery Intermodal Center is about 1 mile from the museum. From there, you can take a local bus or taxi to the museum. Check local transit schedules for bus routes and times. A short taxi ride from the Intermodal Center to the museum will typically cost around $5 - $10.

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Discover more about Freedom Rides Museum

The Freedom Rides Museum, located in downtown Montgomery, Alabama, occupies the historic Greyhound Bus Station, a site of immense significance in the American Civil Rights Movement. In May 1961, this unassuming station was the scene of a violent attack on the Freedom Riders, a group of young activists, both Black and white, who were determined to desegregate bus terminals across the South. Stepping inside the Freedom Rides Museum is like stepping back in time. The exhibits thoughtfully chronicle the Freedom Rides from their inception to their lasting impact. Visitors encounter powerful photographs, compelling oral histories, and poignant artifacts that bring the events of 1961 to life. A restored 1957 Greyhound bus stands as a tangible reminder of the Freedom Riders' journey, allowing visitors to step aboard and imagine the challenges they faced. The museum also highlights the building's original segregated design, a stark reminder of the discriminatory practices of the time. The Freedom Rides Museum is more than just a historical site; it's a place for reflection and dialogue. It serves as a reminder of the courage and determination of the Freedom Riders and their unwavering commitment to justice.

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