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Alabama State Capitol: A Symbol of History and Democracy

Explore Alabama's rich history at the State Capitol in Montgomery, from its Confederate past to its role in the Civil Rights Movement.

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The Alabama State Capitol in Montgomery stands as a testament to the state's rich and complex history. From its Greek Revival architecture to its role in the Confederacy and the Civil Rights Movement, the Capitol offers a compelling glimpse into the heart of Alabama's past. Today, it functions as a museum and the governor's office, inviting visitors to explore its historic chambers and grounds.

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. Tours are available Monday through Friday, but reservations are required for groups of 15 or more.
  • Check out the Goat Hill Museum Store inside the Capitol for unique Alabama-made gifts and souvenirs.
  • Metered street parking is available, but it's free on weekends. Consider free parking at Cramton Bowl Stadium or Paterson Field and walking or taking a shuttle.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From downtown Montgomery, including areas around Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church or the Civil Rights Memorial, the Alabama State Capitol is a short walk uphill. Head east on Dexter Avenue, and you'll see the Capitol building at the top of the hill. The walk is about 0.3 miles and takes approximately 5-10 minutes. Be mindful of the incline as you approach Capitol Hill.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus lines stop near the Alabama State Capitol, including lines 1, 2, 4, 5 and 8. The closest bus stations are Bainbridge & Dexter (4-minute walk), Madison & Bainbridge (6-minute walk), and Jefferson & Ripley (8-minute walk). A single bus fare costs $1.25.

  • Driving

    If driving, use the address '600 Dexter Avenue, Montgomery, AL 36104' for GPS navigation. Metered street parking is available around the Capitol, costing approximately $0.50 per hour, with a two-hour limit. Metered parking is free on Saturdays and Sundays. Free parking is also available at Cramton Bowl Stadium or Paterson Field, with a shuttle or a longer walk to the Capitol.

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 intricate history. Completed in 1851 in the Greek Revival style, it replaced an earlier structure that fell victim to fire. The building has witnessed pivotal moments in American history, serving as the birthplace of the Confederacy in 1861 when Southern states convened here to establish a new nation. A brass star on the west portico marks the spot where Jefferson Davis was inaugurated as the Confederacy's first and only president. Over a century later, the Capitol steps became a symbol of the Civil Rights Movement, as the 1965 Selma to Montgomery Voting Rights March culminated here with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. addressing an estimated 25,000 people. The building itself has been carefully restored, with the Senate Chamber reflecting its 1861 appearance and eight murals in the Rotunda depicting significant events in Alabama's past. Today, the Alabama State Capitol houses the Governor's office and other executive branch officers, and functions as a museum. Visitors can explore the historic House of Representatives, Senate Chamber, Old Supreme Court Chamber & Library, and Rotunda. The grounds feature monuments, statues, and gardens, offering a serene space for reflection. The Goat Hill Museum Store, located inside the Capitol at the Union Street entrance, offers a variety of Alabama-made gifts, specialty foods, and souvenirs.

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