Old Town Historic District, Selma Travel Guide

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Discover Alabama's largest historic district in Selma, where Civil War and Civil Rights history come alive through stunning architecture and landmarks.

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Old Town Historic District

Explore Selma's Old Town Historic District, Alabama's largest, where antebellum architecture and Civil Rights landmarks narrate a powerful story of struggle and resilience. Wander through streets lined with buildings that witnessed pivotal moments in American history.

A brief summary to Old Town Historic District

Selma, Alabama, 36701, US

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Old Town Historic District.

Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on brick streets and uneven surfaces.
Visit the Selma Interpretive Center at the foot of the Edmund Pettus Bridge to get an overview of the Civil Rights Movement in Selma.
Check for local events and festivals, especially during the spring and fall, for a more vibrant experience.
Take a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the district's landmarks.
Allow ample time to explore the district, as there's much to see and discover beyond the main attractions.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Civil Rights Memorial Park

National Voting Rights Museum and Institute

Vaughan Smitherman Museum

Enslavement & Civil War Museum

Old Depot Museum

Explore Old Town Historic District on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Old Town Historic District, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

The Old Town Historic District is best explored on foot. If you are arriving from the Selma-Dallas County Public Transportation System bus stop on Broad Street, walk south towards Water Avenue. The district begins around the intersection of Broad Street and Water Avenue, encompassing the area along Water Avenue and the streets extending inland. Key landmarks like the Edmund Pettus Bridge and Brown Chapel AME Church are within easy walking distance of each other. Parking is available on some streets, but it can be limited, especially during peak tourist season. Parking is free.
Public Transport

Selma-Dallas County Public Transportation System operates bus routes throughout the city. From other parts of Selma, take the bus to a stop on Broad Street near Water Avenue, which is the heart of the Old Town Historic District. A single ride fare is typically around $1.25.
Taxi

Taxis and rideshares are available in Selma. From a location within Selma, a short taxi ride to the Old Town Historic District will likely cost between $7 and $15, depending on the distance and traffic. There are also local taxi services available.

Discover more about Old Town Historic District

Selma's Old Town Historic District is more than just a collection of old buildings; it's a living testament to the city's pivotal role in American history. Designated as the largest historic district in Alabama, it encompasses a remarkable array of architectural styles and historical landmarks that transport visitors back to the 19th and early 20th centuries. As you wander through the district, you'll encounter stunning antebellum mansions, meticulously restored Victorian homes, and charming commercial buildings that reflect the city's prosperity as a major river port and manufacturing center. Many of these structures have witnessed significant events, from the Civil War to the Civil Rights Movement, and their stories are etched into their very walls.One of the most iconic landmarks in the Old Town Historic District is the Edmund Pettus Bridge, the site of the infamous "Bloody Sunday" attack on peaceful civil rights marchers in 1965. Crossing the bridge is a powerful and emotional experience, allowing visitors to connect with the courage and determination of those who fought for voting rights and equality. Nearby, the Brown Chapel AME Church served as a central meeting place and organizing hub for the movement, and its significance is palpable as you stand within its walls.Beyond its Civil Rights history, the Old Town Historic District also boasts a rich Civil War legacy. During the war, Selma was a major Confederate manufacturing center, producing iron, munitions, and even the ironclad warship CSS Tennessee. Although much of the city was destroyed by Union troops in 1865, many historic buildings survived, offering a glimpse into Selma's wartime past. Visit the Old Depot Museum to learn more about Selma's role in the Confederacy and see artifacts from the era. Stroll along Water Avenue, the heart of Selma's historic commercial district, and admire the beautifully restored storefronts that now house local shops, restaurants, and art galleries.