Vaughan-Smitherman Museum: A Window into Selma's Soul
Explore Selma's vibrant past within the walls of this historic Greek Revival landmark, from Civil War relics to hospital artifacts.
Housed in a historic Greek Revival building, the Vaughan-Smitherman Museum in Selma, Alabama, chronicles the city's rich and complex history from its founding to the mid-20th century. Once a school for orphans, it has served as a Confederate hospital, courthouse, and more, offering a unique glimpse into Selma's past.
A brief summary to Vaughan Smitherman Museum
- 109 Union St, Selma, Alabama, 36701, US
- +1334-874-2174
- Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4 pm
- Friday 9 am-4 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Check the museum's opening hours before visiting, as they are only open Tuesday through Saturday.
- Consider attending one of the events hosted at the museum, such as weddings or meetings, to experience the building's versatility.
- Explore all three floors to fully appreciate the diverse exhibits, from Civil War memorabilia to the re-created hospital ward.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Edmund Pettus Bridge, head east on Broad Street towards downtown Selma. Turn right onto Alabama Avenue, then left onto Union Street. The Vaughan-Smitherman Museum will be on your left, a short walk from the heart of downtown. Walking is a free and easy way to reach the museum and explore the surrounding historic district.
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Public Transport
Selma has limited public transportation options. Check with the local visitor center for any available bus routes that may pass near the museum. From the Selma Greyhound Station, a taxi or rideshare service is recommended to reach the museum, approximately a 5-10 minute ride. A short taxi or Uber ride will likely cost around $10-$15.
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Driving
From Highway 80, follow signs for downtown Selma. Once in downtown, navigate to Union Street. The Vaughan-Smitherman Museum is located at 109 Union Street. Parking is available on the street, but availability may be limited. Check for any parking restriction signs. Street parking is generally free, but be aware of time limits.
Discover more about Vaughan Smitherman Museum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
905 Gallery
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant local art scene at 905 Gallery in Selma, Alabama, where creativity and culture come alive in an inspiring atmosphere.
Riverview Historic District
0.5 km
Experience the rich history and stunning architecture of Riverview Historic District in Selma, Alabama, a testament to the nation's past.
Organpi Farms Farmhouse
0.6 km
Explore the bounty of Selma at Organpi Farms Farmhouse, where fresh produce meets local flavor and community spirit.
Queen City Kale
0.6 km
Experience the flavors of Selma at Queen City Kale, where fresh ingredients and creative dishes come together in a vibrant setting.
Sleeping Prophet Edgar Cayce Memorial
0.6 km
Explore the Edgar Cayce Memorial in Selma, Alabama, a historic landmark celebrating the legacy of America's most famous clairvoyant and his insights on spirituality and healing.
Icehouse Historic District
0.7 km
Discover the rich history and architectural beauty of the Icehouse Historic District in Selma, Alabama—a must-visit for history enthusiasts and curious travelers.
The Coffee Shoppe
0.7 km
Discover the heart of Selma at The Coffee Shoppe, where delightful brews and local charm create the perfect café experience.
Bridgetender's House
0.8 km
Explore Selma's historical gem, Bridgetender's House, a serene landmark showcasing the rich heritage of Alabama's past.
St. James Hotel Selma, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
0.8 km
Experience Southern charm at St. James Hotel Selma, where history meets modern comfort along the beautiful Alabama River.
Temple Mishkan Israel
0.8 km
Discover the rich heritage of Temple Mishkan Israel, a historical synagogue in Selma, Alabama, intertwined with the civil rights movement.
Mabry-Jones House
0.8 km
Discover the essence of Selma's history at the Mabry-Jones House, a beautifully preserved historical landmark showcasing architectural elegance and cultural significance.
John Tyler Morgan House
1.0 km
Discover the rich history of the John Tyler Morgan House in Selma, Alabama – a landmark reflecting America's complex past and architectural beauty.
Bloch Park
1.1 km
Experience the natural beauty and community spirit at Bloch Park, a perfect retreat for relaxation and recreation in Selma, Alabama.
Edmundite Missions
1.6 km
Discover the heart of community service at Edmundite Missions in Selma, Alabama, where faith meets action for social justice.
The Sandbar
1.8 km
Experience the best of southern cuisine at The Sandbar, a scenic grill in Selma, Alabama, offering delicious dishes and stunning river views.
Unmissable attractions to see
Old Town Historic District
0.5 km
Explore Selma's Old Town Historic District: A journey through time, architecture, and the heart of the Civil Rights Movement.
Selma Interpretive Center of the Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail
0.7 km
Discover the starting point of the historic Selma to Montgomery march, a pivotal landmark in the Civil Rights Movement.
Edmund Pettus Bridge
0.7 km
Walk in the footsteps of civil rights heroes on this iconic bridge, a powerful symbol of the fight for voting rights and equality in Selma, Alabama.
National Voting Rights Museum and Institute
0.9 km
Explore the pivotal history of the Voting Rights Movement in Selma, AL, honoring the brave activists who fought for equality. A must-see Civil Rights landmark.
Civil Rights Memorial Park
0.9 km
Reflect on the courageous fight for equality at Selma's Civil Rights Memorial Park, honoring pivotal events and figures of the movement.
Sturdivant Hall Museum
0.9 km
Discover the captivating history and craftsmanship of Alabama at Sturdivant Hall Museum, a must-visit gem in Selma.
Enslavement & Civil War Museum
1.0 km
Explore the compelling history of African Americans from ancient Africa through enslavement and the Civil War at this Selma museum.
Bridge Crossing Jubilee
1.0 km
Commemorating the Selma to Montgomery marches and the Voting Rights Act, honoring civil rights history and the fight for equality.
Historic Riverfront Park
1.1 km
Explore Selma's Historic Riverfront Park: A scenic waterfront park with Civil Rights history, river views, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Old Depot Museum
1.2 km
Explore Selma's vibrant history at the Old Depot Museum, from Native American artifacts to the Civil Rights Movement.
Brown Chapel AME Church
1.2 km
Visit the historic Brown Chapel AME Church in Selma, Alabama, a pivotal landmark in the Civil Rights Movement and the fight for voting rights.
Tabernacle Baptist Church
1.6 km
Visit Tabernacle Baptist Church in Selma, a historic landmark and pivotal site in the Civil Rights Movement, showcasing courage and resilience.
New Live Oak Cemetery
1.9 km
Discover Selma's past in a serene setting, where history and nature intertwine among the monuments and ancient trees of New Live Oak Cemetery.
Lions Fair Park
4.4 km
A community hub in Selma, Alabama, hosting the annual Central Alabama Fair and various local events.
Old Cahawba Archaeological Park
12.1 km
Explore Alabama's first capital, a ghost town where history and nature intertwine. Discover ruins, trails, and stories of the past.
Essential places to dine
Reflections Coffee Shoppe
0.6 km
Experience warmth and flavor at Reflections Coffee Shoppe in Selma – your go-to spot for delicious coffee and local charm.
5 & Dime
0.6 km
Experience authentic American cuisine at 5 & Dime in Selma, Alabama - where every meal tells a story.
MK87
0.6 km
Discover MK87 in Selma: A delightful sandwich shop offering locally-sourced flavors in a welcoming atmosphere.
Bistro Manila (and Boba Manila)
0.7 km
Experience authentic Filipino cuisine and delicious bubble tea at Bistro Manila in Selma, Alabama – where every meal tells a story.
Gab n grab
0.7 km
Experience the heart of American cuisine at Gab n Grab in Selma, Alabama – where comfort food meets Southern hospitality.
The Downtowner Restaurant
0.7 km
Experience family-friendly dining at The Downtowner Restaurant in Selma – where delicious comfort food meets warm hospitality.
Macks Amillion Daiquiri shop
0.7 km
Discover refreshing frozen daiquiris at Macks Amillion Daiquiri Shop in Selma, Alabama - where flavor meets fun in a vibrant setting.
Xpression
0.8 km
Discover Xpression in Selma: A culinary gem offering delicious Southern cuisine and warm hospitality in a vibrant setting.
Munch Box
0.8 km
Discover Munch Box: A cozy breakfast spot in Selma offering delicious meals that capture the essence of Southern hospitality.
Sterling's
0.8 km
Discover the heart of American cuisine at Sterling's in Selma - where Southern hospitality meets delicious home-cooked meals.
Dallas Bar-B-Que
1.1 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Dallas Bar-B-Que in Selma - where smoky flavors meet hearty hospitality.
Hickory Pit
1.3 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Hickory Pit in Selma – where smoky flavors meet warm hospitality.
Church's Texas Chicken
1.4 km
Discover the delicious taste of Southern comfort food at Church's Texas Chicken in Selma - where every meal is a celebration!
Pizza Hut Express
1.7 km
Discover delicious pizzas at Pizza Hut Express in Selma, Alabama - a perfect spot for quick bites while exploring rich Southern history.
Hibachi Xpress
2.1 km
Experience authentic hibachi cuisine at Hibachi Xpress in Selma – fresh ingredients and skilled chefs create memorable meals.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Frames 'N Things
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and custom picture frames at Frames 'N Things in Selma, Alabama – a beloved local destination for shoppers of all kinds.
Cotton House
0.5 km
Discover Cotton House in Selma, Alabama - a boutique clothing store offering unique fashion pieces and a warm shopping experience.
Queen City Market
0.6 km
Explore unique clothing and home goods at Queen City Market, Selma's charm-filled boutique offering local fashion and gifts.
allez-oup
0.6 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish finds at Allez-Oup, Selma's charming gift shop and boutique featuring baby clothing and women's fashion.
Broad Street Books
0.7 km
Explore Broad Street Books, Selma's charming bookstore offering a diverse selection of literature in a cozy atmosphere.
This & That
0.7 km
Discover unique home goods and local treasures at This & That, a charming store in Selma, Alabama, where Southern hospitality meets quality craftsmanship.
Gantt Candies LLC
0.7 km
Explore the charming Gantt Candies LLC in Selma, Alabama, for a delightful selection of homemade candies that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
On Time Fashions
0.7 km
Discover the latest trends in men's fashion at On Time Fashions, Selma's go-to destination for stylish clothing and accessories.
Odds and Ends Gift Shop
0.8 km
Explore Selma’s Odds and Ends Gift Shop for unique local gifts, handcrafted treasures, and a taste of Southern charm.
Snack Store
0.8 km
Explore Selma's Snack Store for quick bites, refreshments, and local products in a convenient, friendly setting.
Lex Couture Boutique
0.8 km
Discover elegance and style at Lex Couture Boutique in Selma, Alabama, your destination for bridal gowns, tuxedos, and formal wear.
The Salvation Army Family Store
0.9 km
Explore unique second-hand treasures at The Salvation Army Family Store in Selma, Alabama, while supporting community initiatives and sustainability.
Goodwill
0.9 km
Explore Goodwill Selma for unique thrift finds and sustainable shopping, where every purchase supports community programs and promotes recycling.
Gordon's Antiques and Estate Sales
0.9 km
Explore a unique collection of antiques and vintage treasures at Gordon's Antiques and Estate Sales in Selma, Alabama, where history comes alive.
Cupcake Shop
1.0 km
Experience the sweetness of Selma at the Cupcake Shop, where every bite is a delightful treat crafted with love.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Dallas County
0.4 km
Experience the vibrancy of Dallas County's gay bar scene in Selma, Alabama, a celebration of diversity, culture, and community.
Sparkle's Saloon
0.9 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Sparkle's Saloon, a charming bar in Selma, Alabama, offering refreshing drinks and a taste of local culture.
Dripz Lounge
1.0 km
Discover the charm of Dripz Lounge in Selma, Alabama – your go-to bar for a taste of local nightlife and a cozy atmosphere.
Southern Comfort Lounge
2.8 km
Experience Southern charm at the Southern Comfort Lounge in Selma, Alabama, where live music and delicious cocktails create unforgettable moments.
XPLOSION
3.2 km
Experience the thrill of sports at XPLOSION, Selma's go-to sports bar with delicious bites and a vibrant atmosphere.
Dallas County Moose Lodge 1737
5.2 km
Discover the warmth and camaraderie of the Dallas County Moose Lodge 1737 in Selma, a perfect spot for drinks and local culture.
Michael's Pub
6.1 km
Discover the lively nightlife and warm atmosphere of Michael's Pub in Selma, Alabama, where great drinks and good company await you.
King Bar
16.0 km
Discover the wonders of King Bar, a vibrant reef destination in Alabama offering stunning marine life and a relaxing atmosphere for every tourist.
Mary Taylor Bar
18.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious seafood at Mary Taylor Bar, a hidden gem in Alabama's coastal beauty.
Mitchell Bar
18.6 km
Explore the vibrant underwater world of Mitchell Bar, a stunning reef in Alabama, where adventure and marine beauty await every visitor.
Upper Sister Bar
22.7 km
Explore the vibrant marine life and stunning coral formations at Upper Sister Bar, a must-visit reef destination in Alabama for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Rifleman Bar
22.8 km
Experience the heart of Alabama at Rifleman Bar - a cozy retreat for drinks, stories, and local culture.
Middle Sister Bar
26.7 km
Explore the serene beauty of Middle Sister Bar in Alabama, a stunning reef destination perfect for adventure and relaxation.
Providence Bar
27.3 km
Explore the stunning reef landscapes of Providence Bar in Alabama, a serene escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Upper Portland Bar
29.4 km
Discover the serene beauty of Upper Portland Bar in Alabama, a perfect retreat for relaxation and local flavor amidst stunning landscapes.
