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Alabama State Capitol: A Walk Through History

Explore Alabama's rich history at the State Capitol in Montgomery, from the Confederacy's beginnings to the Civil Rights Movement's triumphs.

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The Alabama State Capitol in Montgomery is a National Historic Landmark with a rich history. Completed in 1851, it served as the first capitol of the Confederacy and was the final destination of the Selma to Montgomery Voting Rights March. Today, it functions as a museum and houses the Governor's office.

A brief summary to Alabama State Capitol

  • Monday 9 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-4 pm
  • Friday 9 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Take a guided tour to fully appreciate the historical significance of the Capitol. Reservations are required for groups of 15 or more.
  • Visit the Goat Hill Museum Store for unique Alabama-made souvenirs and gifts.
  • Check out the monuments and statues on the Capitol grounds.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From downtown Montgomery, the Alabama State Capitol is a relatively easy walk. Head east on Dexter Avenue, the main thoroughfare, towards Capitol Hill (also known as Goat Hill). The Capitol sits at the top of the hill. The walk is approximately 0.5 miles and should take about 10-15 minutes. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    Montgomery Transit offers several bus routes that stop near the Alabama State Capitol. Routes 1, 2, 4, 5, and 8 all have stops within a few blocks of the Capitol. Check the Montgomery Transit website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and route information. From the Intermodal Transfer Center, the Alabama State Capitol is a short bus ride away. A single ride fare is $1.25.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to 600 Dexter Avenue, Montgomery, AL 36104. Metered street parking is available around the Capitol, costing approximately $0.50 per hour, with a two-hour limit. Free parking is available at Cramton Bowl Stadium or Paterson Field, but requires a slightly longer walk. All street parking is free after 5:00 PM and on weekends.

Unlock the Best of Alabama State Capitol

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Discover more about Alabama State Capitol

The Alabama State Capitol, crowning Capitol Hill in Montgomery, is more than just a building; it's a living museum of Alabama's complex past. Completed in 1851 in the Greek Revival style, it replaced an earlier structure that tragically burned down. The building has been expanded over the years to include rear and side wings. Here, in 1861, the Confederate States of America was formed in the Senate Chamber, marking a pivotal moment in American history. A century later, the streets in front of the Capitol witnessed the culmination of the Selma to Montgomery Voting Rights March in 1965, a landmark event in the Civil Rights Movement. The Alabama State Capitol has been designated as a National Historic Landmark. Although the Alabama Legislature now meets at the Alabama State House, the Capitol still houses the Governor's office and serves as a museum, offering guided tours of the House of Representatives, Senate Chamber, Old Supreme Court Chamber & Library, and Rotunda. Visitors can explore restored areas, including the Senate Chamber, meticulously restored to its 1861 appearance, and the Rotunda, adorned with eight murals depicting significant episodes from Alabama's history. The grounds surrounding the Capitol feature monuments, statues, and gardens, inviting visitors to reflect on the state's journey. The Goat Hill Museum Store, located inside the Capitol at the Union Street entrance, offers a variety of Alabama-made gifts, souvenirs, and specialty foods.

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