Alabama State Capitol: A Seat of History
Explore Alabama's rich history at the State Capitol in Montgomery, from its Confederate origins to its role in the Civil Rights Movement.
The Alabama State Capitol in Montgomery, a National Historic Landmark, stands as a museum of state history and politics. Completed in 1851, it served as the first capitol of the Confederacy and later as the site where the Selma to Montgomery march culminated, marking pivotal moments in American history.
A brief summary to Capitol Historic Building Tour
- 600 Dexter Ave, Montgomery, Alabama, 36130, US
- +1334-242-3935
- Visit website
Local tips
- Take a guided tour to learn about the Capitol's history and significance. Tours are available by appointment.
- Visit the Goat Hill Museum Store inside the Capitol for Alabama-made gifts and souvenirs.
- Explore the grounds to see the Confederate Memorial Monument and Avenue of Flags.
Getting There
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Walking
From downtown Montgomery, near landmarks like the 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 the Capitol will be visible at the top of the hill. The walk is approximately 0.3 miles and takes about 5-10 minutes. Be prepared for an incline as you approach Capitol Hill.
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Public Transport
Several bus lines serve the Alabama State Capitol. From the Intermodal Transfer Center, take bus lines 1, 2, 4, 5, or 8. The closest bus stops to the Capitol are Bainbridge & Dexter (4-minute walk), Madison & Bainbridge (6-minute walk), and Jefferson & Ripley (8-minute walk). A single bus fare costs $2.00.
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Driving
If driving, use the address '600 Dexter Avenue, Montgomery, AL 36104' for GPS navigation. Metered street parking is available around the Capitol for 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.
Discover more about Capitol Historic Building Tour
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Capitol Historic Building Tour
0.0 km
Explore Alabama's rich history and political legacy at the Alabama State Capitol, a National Historic Landmark in Montgomery.
Confederate Memorial Monument
0.1 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.
Flame of Freedom
0.1 km
A war memorial on the Alabama State Capitol grounds honoring the state's veterans and their sacrifices for freedom.
Alabama Bicentennial Park
0.2 km
Explore Alabama's history through art at this downtown Montgomery park commemorating 200 years of statehood with compelling sculptures and narratives.
The Dowe Houses
0.4 km
Explore the legacy of the Dowe family through these well-preserved historic homes in the heart of Montgomery, Alabama.
Lucas Tavern
0.5 km
Explore the rich history of Montgomery at Lucas Tavern, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving local heritage through engaging tours and events.
The Jackson-Community House
0.5 km
Discover the Jackson-Community House in Montgomery, a landmark of African American resilience and a hub for civil rights activism.
Abram Mordecai Historical Marker
0.5 km
Discover the story of Abram Mordecai, a pioneer who shaped Alabama's early history and trade relations with the Creek Nation.
Unmissable attractions to see
The First White House of the Confederacy
0.2 km
Visit the First White House of the Confederacy in Montgomery, AL, and step back into a pivotal moment in American history.
Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church
0.2 km
Visit the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church, a cornerstone of the Civil Rights Movement and the site where Martin Luther King Jr. led change.
Museum of Alabama
0.2 km
Explore Alabama's captivating history from prehistoric times to the 21st century at the Museum of Alabama in downtown Montgomery. Free admission!
Alabama Department of Archives & History
0.2 km
Explore Alabama's past at the Alabama Department of Archives and History, home to the Museum of Alabama and extensive historical resources.
AlabamaMosaic
0.2 km
Explore Alabama's history and culture through digitized collections of photos, documents, and stories at this unique online repository.
The MOOseum
0.3 km
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!
Civil Rights Memorial
0.3 km
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.
Civil Rights Memorial Center
0.3 km
Reflect on the Civil Rights Movement at this moving memorial honoring the martyrs and inspiring a continued march toward racial equity and justice.
Old Alabama Town
0.6 km
Discover 19th-century Alabama life through restored homes, workplaces, and community buildings in Montgomery's historic Old Alabama Town.
Landmarks Foundation of Montgomery
0.7 km
Discover Alabama's heritage: Explore meticulously restored 19th & 20th-century buildings in a captivating living history museum in downtown Montgomery.
Dexter Parsonage Museum
0.7 km
Visit the Dexter Parsonage Museum in Montgomery, AL, and walk in the footsteps of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to experience civil rights history firsthand.
Rosa Parks Bus Stop
0.8 km
Visit the Rosa Parks Bus Stop in Montgomery, AL, and reflect on a moment that sparked the Civil Rights Movement.
Freedom Rides Museum
0.9 km
Explore the pivotal story of the 1961 Freedom Rides at the Montgomery Greyhound Bus Station, where courage and nonviolent protest changed American history.
The Legacy Museum
0.9 km
Explore America's history of racial injustice through immersive exhibits at this confronting and powerful museum in Montgomery, Alabama.
The Hank Williams Museum
1.0 km
Experience the life and legacy of country music icon Hank Williams at his Montgomery museum, featuring his Cadillac, stage suits, and personal memorabilia.
Essential places to dine
Farmers Market Cafe
0.7 km
Experience authentic Southern flavors at Farmers Market Cafe in Montgomery - where every meal feels like home.
Davis Cafe
0.7 km
Experience the heartwarming flavors of Southern cuisine at Davis Cafe in Montgomery - where every meal tells a story.
Island Delight
0.7 km
Discover authentic Jamaican flavors at Island Delight in Montgomery - where every dish tells a story.
Cahawba House
0.8 km
Experience authentic Southern breakfasts at Cahawba House, where each dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Ravello Ristorante
0.9 km
Experience authentic Italian fine dining at Ravello Ristorante in Montgomery, AL—where exquisite flavors meet elegant ambiance.
Kinsmith
0.9 km
Experience Southern hospitality at Kinsmith, where diverse flavors meet inviting ambiance in the heart of Montgomery.
D'Road Cafe
0.9 km
Experience authentic Venezuelan flavors at D'Road Cafe in downtown Montgomery - a must-visit breakfast destination!
Waterworks Rooftop Restaurant and Bar
0.9 km
Experience stunning skyline views while savoring delicious cuisine at Montgomery's premier rooftop restaurant and bar.
Dreamland BBQ
0.9 km
Experience the authentic taste of Southern barbecue at Dreamland BBQ in Montgomery - where every bite tells a story.
Plant Bae
0.9 km
Discover Plant Bae in Montgomery - where delicious vegan dishes meet sustainable practices in a welcoming atmosphere.
Pannie-George's Kitchen Inc - Montgomery
0.9 km
Discover authentic Southern flavors at Pannie-George's Kitchen Inc in Montgomery - A must-visit restaurant for culinary enthusiasts.
Central Restaurant
1.0 km
Discover exquisite Traditional American cuisine at Central Restaurant in Montgomery - where culinary artistry meets elegant dining.
Taste Too
1.0 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of America at Taste Too in Montgomery – where every meal is crafted with passion.
SaZa Serious Italian Food
1.0 km
Experience the essence of Italy at SaZa Serious Italian Food in Montgomery – where every bite tells a story.
Wintzell's Oyster House
1.0 km
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
0.1 km
Explore the Goat Hill Museum Store in Montgomery, Alabama, for unique gifts and treasures that showcase the state's rich culture and artistry.
Bits N Pieces
0.2 km
Explore Bits N Pieces in Montgomery, AL for unique gifts and local treasures that capture the essence of Alabama's culture and charm.
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.
AfriAmeri Gift Shop
0.6 km
Explore the vibrant culture of Africa at AfriAmeri Gift Shop - a unique destination for authentic African crafts and gifts in Montgomery, Alabama.
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
0.7 km
Explore Weil's Inc in Montgomery for a stylish selection of men's clothing, where quality meets fashion in a welcoming atmosphere.
Naturally Necessary Soaps & Co
0.7 km
Explore Montgomery's Naturally Necessary Soaps & Co for exquisite handmade soaps and natural skincare treasures that capture the essence of local artistry.
Tours of Montgomery
0.8 km
Discover the heart of Montgomery with unique souvenirs reflecting the rich culture and history of Alabama at Tours of Montgomery.
Keller Boutique
0.8 km
Discover the charm of Southern fashion at Keller Boutique in Montgomery, Alabama, featuring unique styles and personalized service for every shopper.
Besties Boutique(shopbestiess)
0.8 km
Explore Besties Boutique in Montgomery for unique fashion pieces and delightful gifts that showcase Southern charm and style.
The BeYOUtiful Boutiques
0.8 km
Explore The BeYOUtiful Boutiques for stylish women's clothing and unique plus-size fashion in Montgomery, Alabama.
Trenae's Boutique
1.4 km
Explore Trenae's Boutique in Montgomery, AL for unique fashion accessories, clothing, and local artistry that define Southern elegance.
Limitless Options Boutique
1.5 km
Explore Limitless Options Boutique in Montgomery, AL, where unique women's fashion meets Southern charm in a delightful shopping experience.
Capitol Heights Mini Mart
1.7 km
Discover the convenience of Capitol Heights Mini Mart, your one-stop shop for snacks, drinks, and essential services in Montgomery, Alabama.
Capital Parkway Shopping Center
1.8 km
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
0.8 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and craft cocktails of 23 Court, Montgomery's premier bar for socializing and relaxation.
The Statesman
0.8 km
Experience the best of Montgomery's nightlife at The Statesman, where expertly crafted cocktails meet a chic and inviting atmosphere.
Bar Attico
0.9 km
Discover the heart of Montgomery's cocktail culture at Bar Attico, where vibrant drinks meet a lively atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.
The Alley
1.0 km
Explore The Alley in Montgomery, Alabama, a vibrant entertainment district filled with lively bars, restaurants, and cultural experiences for every tourist.
AlleyBAR
1.0 km
Discover AlleyBAR in Montgomery, AL - a lively bar with live music, offering a unique blend of local culture and vibrant nightlife for an unforgettable experience.
Aviator Bar
1.0 km
Experience Montgomery's vibrant nightlife at Aviator Bar, where craft cocktails and live music create an unforgettable atmosphere.
Lower Lounge
1.0 km
Discover Montgomery's Lower Lounge, a chic cocktail bar offering expertly crafted drinks and a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.
Tower Taproom
1.0 km
Discover Tower Taproom in Montgomery, a vibrant beer hall with an extensive craft beer selection and delicious gourmet burgers perfect for foodies and beer lovers.
The Exchange Bar
1.1 km
Experience the charm of Montgomery at The Exchange Bar, a stylish lounge offering exquisite cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere for relaxation and socializing.
VIP Hookah Lounge
1.1 km
Discover relaxation and vibrant nightlife at VIP Hookah Lounge, Montgomery's premier hookah bar and social hotspot.
Red Bluff Bar at the Silos
1.2 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Montgomery at Red Bluff Bar at the Silos, where Southern hospitality meets delightful grilled cuisine.
Hilltop Public House
1.4 km
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
1.7 km
Discover the laid-back charm of Rob's Pockets, a local bar in Montgomery, Alabama, known for its friendly atmosphere and affordable drinks.
KRU on Mt. Meigs
2.1 km
Discover KRU on Mt. Meigs, Montgomery's premier bar offering crafted cocktails and vibrant nightlife amidst a welcoming atmosphere.
Pine Bar Old Cloverdale
2.2 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delightful drinks at Pine Bar Old Cloverdale, a must-visit bar in Montgomery, Alabama for tourists and locals alike.
