Birmingham Civil Rights Institute: A Powerful Journey Through History
Explore the pivotal role of Birmingham in the Civil Rights Movement through immersive exhibits and historical archives at this Smithsonian-affiliated institute.
The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute (BCRI), a Smithsonian Affiliate, is a museum and research center in Birmingham, Alabama, that chronicles the Civil Rights Movement. Through immersive exhibits, BCRI portrays life during segregation and the struggle for equality, inspiring visitors to reflect on the past and work towards a better future.
A brief summary to Birmingham Civil Rights Institute
- 520 16th St N, Birmingham, Fountain Heights, Alabama, 35203, US
- +1205-328-9696
- Visit website
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Allow at least 90 minutes for a self-guided tour through the museum's historic galleries.
- Take time to walk through nearby Kelly Ingram Park and reflect on the inscriptions and memorials.
- Consider attending one of the BCRI's special events, such as public performances, book discussions, or walking tours.
- Free parking is available behind the building, with access from 15th Street North.
Getting There
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Walking
The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute is located in the Civil Rights District, near the 16th Street Baptist Church and Kelly Ingram Park. If you are already in the district, walking is a convenient way to reach the museum. From Kelly Ingram Park, simply walk across the street to the BCRI's entrance.
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Public Transport
The Birmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA) offers bus service throughout the city. Check the BJCTA website or app for routes and schedules to find the nearest bus stop to the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute. A single ride fare is typically $1.25.
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Taxi/Ride-share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Birmingham. Request a ride to the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute at 520 16th St N. A typical short ride from downtown Birmingham to the BCRI will cost approximately $8-$15, depending on traffic and demand.
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Driving
If driving, navigate to 520 16th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203. Free parking is available behind the building, with access from 15th Street North. Limited metered street parking is also available in the vicinity. Several paid parking lots are located within a few blocks of the BCRI; rates typically range from $5-$15 per hour.
Discover more about Birmingham Civil Rights Institute
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Historic 4th Avenue Business District
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Discover Birmingham's Historic 4th Avenue Business District: A vibrant center of Black culture, entrepreneurship, and civil rights history.
Civil Rights Freedom Riders Marker
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Honoring the brave Freedom Riders who challenged segregation in 1961, marking a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement.
The Woodward Building
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Alabama Peanut Co.
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Alabama Sports Hall of Fame
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Dread River Distilling Company
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Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.’s ‘Letter From Birmingham Jail’ Marker
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Avondale Park Historic District
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Unmissable attractions to see
Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument
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Kelly Ingram Park
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Birmingham Civil Rights District
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Birmingham Museum of Art
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Heaviest Corner On Earth
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Railroad Park Foundation
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Negro Southern League Museum
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Samuel Ullman Museum
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Essential places to dine
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Blueprint on 3rd
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Bricktop's
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Mudtown Eat & Drink
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Satterfield's Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hanna Antiques Mall
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Shea Davis Boutique
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Soca Clothing
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Alabama Goods
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A'Mano
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Sojourns
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![Carrigan's Public House [21+ Only]](https://evendo-location-media.s3.amazonaws.com/BarImages/7367605d-795a-46b6-ae50-1825e1d76fb0)
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Oak Hill Bar & Grill
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The Upper Deck
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Barrister's Tavern
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