Alabama Department of Archives & History: Preserving Alabama's Story
Explore Alabama's rich history at the Alabama Department of Archives and History, home to the Museum of Alabama and extensive research collections.
The Alabama Department of Archives and History (ADAH), located in downtown Montgomery, is the nation's oldest state-funded, independent archival and historical agency. It serves as the state's official government records repository, a private collections library, and the home of the Museum of Alabama.
A brief summary to Alabama Department of Archives & History
- 36130, 624 Washington Ave, Montgomery, AL, 36104, US
- +1334-242-4435
- Visit website
- Monday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Take advantage of the free parking available in the lot across from the Adams Avenue entrance.
- If you're planning to conduct research, bring a driver's license or photo ID to obtain a researcher card.
- Note that the Research Room has specific rules about what items are allowed inside; check the ADAH website for details.
Getting There
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Walking
The Alabama Department of Archives and History is located in downtown Montgomery, directly across the street from the Alabama State Capitol. If you are in the Capitol area, simply cross Washington Avenue to reach the ADAH. The entrance is on Washington Avenue, with an accessible entrance located on Adams Avenue.
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Public Transport
The ADAH is accessible via public transportation in Montgomery. Check the local Montgomery Area Transit System (MATS) schedules for routes and stops near the State Capitol, which is directly across from the ADAH. From a MATS bus stop near the Capitol, cross Washington Avenue to reach the ADAH. Single ride fares are typically around $1.25.
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Driving
If driving, the Alabama Department of Archives and History is located at 624 Washington Avenue in downtown Montgomery. Limited free parking is available in the parking lot across from the Adams Avenue entrance. Metered on-street parking is also available on surrounding blocks. Note the south entrance on Adams Avenue has the inscription 'ALABAMA WORLD WAR MEMORIAL'. Parking costs vary, but expect to pay around $1-$2 per hour for metered parking.
Discover more about Alabama Department of Archives & History
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Flame of Freedom
0.2 km
A solemn war memorial on the Alabama Capitol grounds, honoring the state's veterans and their service to the nation.
Capitol Historic Building Tour
0.2 km
Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of the Alabama State Capitol, a must-visit landmark in Montgomery that tells the story of a state.
Confederate Memorial Monument
0.3 km
Visit the Confederate Memorial Monument in Montgomery, AL, and explore a significant historical landmark commemorating the valor of Confederate soldiers during the Civil War.
The Jackson-Community House
0.3 km
Explore the Jackson-Community House in Montgomery, a landmark of African American history and a center for civil rights activism.
Alabama Bicentennial Park
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Explore Alabama's rich history through stunning sculptures at this downtown Montgomery park, commemorating 200 years of statehood.
The Dowe Houses
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Explore the Dowe Houses, a historic gem in Montgomery, Alabama, showcasing Southern architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Tours of Montgomery
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Discover Montgomery's unique culture through local crafts and souvenirs at Tours of Montgomery, a charming store filled with artisan treasures.
Lucas Tavern
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Explore the rich history of Montgomery at Lucas Tavern, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving local heritage through engaging tours and events.
Abram Mordecai Historical Marker
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Explore the Abram Mordecai Historical Marker in Montgomery, Alabama, a tribute to cultural heritage and a significant figure in the region's history.
Montgomery Alabama
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Discover Montgomery, Alabama: A journey through civil rights history, Southern charm, and a vibrant cultural scene awaits in the heart of the South, where past and present converge.
Alabama Historical Commission
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Discover Alabama's vibrant history at the Alabama Historical Commission, where the past comes alive through engaging exhibits and dedicated preservation efforts.
Unmissable attractions to see
Museum of Alabama
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Explore Alabama's captivating history from prehistoric times to the 21st century at the Museum of Alabama in downtown Montgomery. Free admission!
AlabamaMosaic
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Explore Alabama's history and culture through digitized collections of photos, documents, and stories at this unique online repository.
The First White House of the Confederacy
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Visit the First White House of the Confederacy in Montgomery, AL, and step back into the early days of the Confederacy. A preserved landmark.
The MOOseum
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Explore Alabama's beef cattle industry through interactive exhibits and hands-on learning at The MOOseum in Montgomery. A fun and educational experience for all ages!
Alabama State Capitol
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Explore Alabama's rich history at the State Capitol in Montgomery, from its Confederate origins to its role in the Civil Rights Movement.
Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church
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Walk in the footsteps of Martin Luther King Jr. at this pivotal landmark of the Civil Rights Movement in Montgomery, Alabama.
Civil Rights Memorial Center
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Reflect on the Civil Rights Movement at this moving memorial and interpretive center in Montgomery, Alabama.
Civil Rights Memorial
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Reflect on the heroes and events of the Civil Rights Movement at this moving memorial in Montgomery, Alabama. A testament to the fight for equality and justice.
Dexter Parsonage Museum
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Explore the former home of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in Montgomery, AL, and experience the heart of the Civil Rights Movement at the Dexter Parsonage Museum.
Rosa Parks Bus Stop
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Visit the Rosa Parks Bus Stop in Montgomery, AL, and reflect on a moment that sparked the Civil Rights Movement.
Freedom Rides Museum
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Experience the courage and impact of the 1961 Freedom Riders at this pivotal Civil Rights landmark in Montgomery, Alabama.
Old Alabama Town
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Discover 19th-century Alabama life through restored homes, workplaces, and community buildings in Montgomery's historic Old Alabama Town.
Landmarks Foundation of Montgomery
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Discover Alabama's heritage: Explore meticulously restored 19th & 20th-century buildings in a captivating living history museum in downtown Montgomery.
Rosa Parks Library & Museum Childrens Wing
1.0 km
Engage young minds with interactive exhibits exploring the Civil Rights Movement at the Rosa Parks Library & Museum Children's Wing in Montgomery, Alabama.
Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts
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Experience the magic of performing arts at the historic Davis Theatre in downtown Montgomery, Alabama. A cultural gem offering diverse entertainment.
Essential places to dine
Island Delight
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Discover authentic Jamaican flavors at Island Delight in Montgomery - where every dish tells a story.
Cahawba House
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Experience authentic Southern breakfasts at Cahawba House, where each dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Farmers Market Cafe
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Experience authentic Southern flavors at Farmers Market Cafe in Montgomery - where every meal feels like home.
D'Road Cafe
0.9 km
Experience authentic Venezuelan flavors at D'Road Cafe in downtown Montgomery - a must-visit breakfast destination!
Davis Cafe
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Experience the heartwarming flavors of Southern cuisine at Davis Cafe in Montgomery - where every meal tells a story.
Ravello Ristorante
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Experience authentic Italian fine dining at Ravello Ristorante in Montgomery, AL—where exquisite flavors meet elegant ambiance.
Plant Bae
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Discover Plant Bae in Montgomery - where delicious vegan dishes meet sustainable practices in a welcoming atmosphere.
Kinsmith
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Experience Southern hospitality at Kinsmith, where diverse flavors meet inviting ambiance in the heart of Montgomery.
Waterworks Rooftop Restaurant and Bar
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Experience stunning skyline views while savoring delicious cuisine at Montgomery's premier rooftop restaurant and bar.
Dreamland BBQ
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Experience the authentic taste of Southern barbecue at Dreamland BBQ in Montgomery - where every bite tells a story.
Taste Too
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Experience the vibrant flavors of America at Taste Too in Montgomery – where every meal is crafted with passion.
Central Restaurant
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Discover exquisite Traditional American cuisine at Central Restaurant in Montgomery - where culinary artistry meets elegant dining.
Pannie-George's Kitchen Inc - Montgomery
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Discover authentic Southern flavors at Pannie-George's Kitchen Inc in Montgomery - A must-visit restaurant for culinary enthusiasts.
SaZa Serious Italian Food
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Experience the essence of Italy at SaZa Serious Italian Food in Montgomery – where every bite tells a story.
Wintzell's Oyster House
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Experience authentic Gulf Coast cuisine at Wintzell's Oyster House – Montgomery's premier destination for fresh oysters and seafood delicacies.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Goat Hill Museum Store
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Explore the Goat Hill Museum Store in Montgomery, Alabama, for unique gifts and treasures that showcase the state's rich culture and artistry.
Alabama Tourism Gift Shop
0.3 km
Explore Alabama's rich culture and history at the Tourism Gift Shop, your go-to destination for unique souvenirs and local treasures.
Bits N Pieces
0.3 km
Explore Bits N Pieces in Montgomery, AL for unique gifts and local treasures that capture the essence of Alabama's culture and charm.
Looking Good
0.7 km
Explore Montgomery's fashion scene at Looking Good, the ultimate destination for stylish men's clothing and accessories.
Weil's Inc
0.8 km
Explore Weil's Inc in Montgomery for a stylish selection of men's clothing, where quality meets fashion in a welcoming atmosphere.
AfriAmeri Gift Shop
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Explore the vibrant culture of Africa at AfriAmeri Gift Shop - a unique destination for authentic African crafts and gifts in Montgomery, Alabama.
Naturally Necessary Soaps & Co
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Explore Montgomery's Naturally Necessary Soaps & Co for exquisite handmade soaps and natural skincare treasures that capture the essence of local artistry.
Keller Boutique
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Discover the charm of Southern fashion at Keller Boutique in Montgomery, Alabama, featuring unique styles and personalized service for every shopper.
Besties Boutique(shopbestiess)
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Explore Besties Boutique in Montgomery for unique fashion pieces and delightful gifts that showcase Southern charm and style.
The BeYOUtiful Boutiques
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Explore The BeYOUtiful Boutiques for stylish women's clothing and unique plus-size fashion in Montgomery, Alabama.
Trenae's Boutique
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Limitless Options Boutique
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Capitol Heights Mini Mart
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New Hob Nob
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Capital Parkway Shopping Center
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Discover shopping bliss at Capital Parkway Shopping Center in Montgomery, Alabama, where retail therapy meets local charm and delicious dining.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
23 Court
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The Statesman
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Experience the best of Montgomery's nightlife at The Statesman, where expertly crafted cocktails meet a chic and inviting atmosphere.
Bar Attico
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The Alley
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Explore The Alley in Montgomery, Alabama, a vibrant entertainment district filled with lively bars, restaurants, and cultural experiences for every tourist.
AlleyBAR
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Aviator Bar
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Experience Montgomery's vibrant nightlife at Aviator Bar, where craft cocktails and live music create an unforgettable atmosphere.
Lower Lounge
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Tower Taproom
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VIP Hookah Lounge
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Discover relaxation and vibrant nightlife at VIP Hookah Lounge, Montgomery's premier hookah bar and social hotspot.
The Exchange Bar
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Experience the charm of Montgomery at The Exchange Bar, a stylish lounge offering exquisite cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere for relaxation and socializing.
Red Bluff Bar at the Silos
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Hilltop Public House
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Discover Hilltop Public House in Montgomery: A delightful bar and café offering an array of delicious bagels, coffee, cocktails, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Rob's Pockets
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Pine Bar Old Cloverdale
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Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delightful drinks at Pine Bar Old Cloverdale, a must-visit bar in Montgomery, Alabama for tourists and locals alike.
KRU on Mt. Meigs
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Discover KRU on Mt. Meigs, Montgomery's premier bar offering crafted cocktails and vibrant nightlife amidst a welcoming atmosphere.
