Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument: A Sacred Journey
Explore pivotal Civil Rights Movement sites in Birmingham, AL: 16th Street Baptist Church, Kelly Ingram Park, and the A.G. Gaston Motel.
The Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument, established in 2017, encompasses four city blocks in downtown Birmingham, Alabama, a city recognized as a pivotal site in the Civil Rights Movement. This monument serves as a powerful reminder of the struggle for civil and human rights. Key sites within the monument include the 16th Street Baptist Church, a poignant reminder of the tragic bombing in 1963, and Kelly Ingram Park, where young protesters faced police brutality during the Children's Crusade. The A.G. Gaston Motel, once a haven for civil rights leaders, and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, offering an interactive overview of the city's history, are also integral parts of this landscape. Visitors can explore exhibits, tour churches, stroll through parks where protesters marched, and reflect in museums where artifacts are stored. The monument provides a profound and moving experience, allowing visitors to honor the heroes of the Civil Rights Movement, learn from their struggles, and recommit to the pursuit of a more just and equitable society.
Local tips
- Check the weather forecast before visiting, as most sites are outdoors.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a considerable amount of walking involved.
- Take the self-guided audio tour of Kelly Ingram Park by dialing 205-307-5455 for an enhanced understanding of the park's history.
- Visit the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute for an interactive overview of Birmingham's role in the Civil Rights Movement.
A brief summary to Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument
- 1510 5th Ave N, Birmingham, Fountain Heights, Alabama, 35203, US
- +1205-328-9696
- Visit website
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
Getting There
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Walking
The Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument encompasses four city blocks, making walking a convenient way to explore the key sites. From the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, the 16th Street Baptist Church and Kelly Ingram Park are just a short walk away. Walking allows you to follow the path of marches and immerse yourself in the history of the area.
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Public Transport
MAX Transit operates buses throughout Birmingham, providing an affordable way to reach the monument. From the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex (BJCC) or the MAX Birmingham Intermodal (train and bus station), you can take a MAX bus to the Civil Rights District. A one-way fare is $1.50 for adults, with discounted fares for students, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. Exact fare is required when paying on board. Birmingham also offers Birmingham On-Demand, a ride-share service, in the City Center Zone for $1.50 per ride.
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Driving
If driving, navigate to the vicinity of 1510 5th Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203. Free parking is available at the nearby Birmingham Civil Rights Institute via 15th Street N. Street metered parking is also an option. Parking garages are located within walking distance of Kelly Ingram Park, with rates typically around $10-$15 for a few hours. From I-20 East/59 North or I-65 South, take the 17th Street exit.
Attractions Nearby to Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument
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Birmingham Civil Rights Institute
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Kelly Ingram Park
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Birmingham Civil Rights District
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Eddie Kendrick Memorial Park
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McWane Science Center
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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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“Before I die” wall
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Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark
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Locked In: The Birmingham Escape Game
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Arlington Antebellum Home & Gardens
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Samuel Ullman Museum
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Vulcan Park and Museum
Landmarks nearby to Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument
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Historic 4th Avenue Business District
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Civil Rights Freedom Riders Marker
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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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Five Points South Historical Marker
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The Jordan Home (Dr. Mortimer Jordan)
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Avondale Park Historic District
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The Historic Bethel Baptist Church
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The Old Mill
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HIGHLAND HISTORIC DISTRICT
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Pratt City Carline Historic District
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Oldest house in Shades Valley/Irondale Furnace Commissary