Background

Old Alabama Town: A Journey Through Time

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

4.5

Old Alabama Town in Montgomery, Alabama, is a living history museum that showcases the lives of early Alabamians during the 19th and early 20th centuries. This unique village comprises over 50 carefully preserved and restored buildings rescued from across central Alabama. Visitors can explore homes, workplaces, and community buildings, gaining a tangible connection to the past.

A brief summary to Old Alabama Town

Local tips

  • 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.
  • Check the Old Alabama Town website for special events and demonstrations for a more immersive and interactive experience.
  • 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.
widget icon

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 above to reach the entrance. A single ride on The M costs $1.50.

  • 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. Free parking is available on the site across from the Loeb Reception Center. Be aware that parking can be limited during peak tourist season and special events.

Unlock the Best of Old Alabama Town

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Old Alabama Town

Step back in time at Old Alabama Town, a captivating historical village spanning six blocks in downtown Montgomery. This open-air museum, administered by the Landmarks Foundation of Montgomery, features over 50 authentically restored buildings dating from the 19th and early 20th centuries. These structures, saved from demolition across central Alabama, offer a glimpse into the lives of those who shaped the region. Founded in 1967, the Landmarks Foundation of Montgomery began preserving Alabama's architectural and historical heritage. Their first major project was 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 reflecting the social and economic fabric of the time. Explore the Lucas Tavern, the oldest surviving building in Montgomery County, where General Lafayette once stayed. Wander through pioneer cabins, simple cottages, and working-class homes, each offering a glimpse into the diverse experiences of people living in central Alabama during this period. 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 and demonstrations. Knowledgeable guides bring the stories of early Alabamians to life, sharing insights into their daily lives, challenges, and triumphs. The working block includes an operational cotton gin and gristmill, a blacksmith, an old-time pharmacy, and a printing press. The living block depicts how people lived in the 19th century, with a one-room schoolhouse, corner grocery store, and log cabin.

Popular Experiences near Old Alabama Town

Popular Hotels near Old Alabama Town

Select Currency