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Alabama State Capitol: A Symbol of History

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 pivotal moments in American history. Completed in 1851, it served as the first capitol of the Confederacy and later as the site where the Selma to Montgomery Voting Rights March culminated, making it a significant landmark in both Civil War and Civil Rights history. Today, it functions as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into Alabama's rich past.

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 for an in-depth understanding of the Capitol's history and significance.
  • Visit the Goat Hill Museum Store inside the Capitol for unique Alabama-made gifts and souvenirs.
  • Explore the Capitol grounds, including the main steps, Avenue of Flags, and Confederate Memorial Monument.
  • Check out nearby attractions such as the First White House of the Confederacy, the Museum of Alabama, and the Civil Rights Memorial.
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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

    The Alabama State Capitol is accessible via Montgomery public transportation. Several bus lines, including routes 2, 4, and 5, stop near the Capitol. The closest bus station to the Alabama State Capitol is Bainbridge & Dexter, which is a 4-minute walk away. A single ride on Montgomery Area Transit System (MATS) 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

Perched atop Capitol Hill, also known as Goat Hill, the Alabama State Capitol has been a silent witness to history for over 150 years. The building itself is an architectural marvel, showcasing a blend of Greek Revival and Beaux-Arts influences. Completed in 1851, it replaced an earlier structure that was destroyed by fire. Inside, visitors can explore the Senate Chamber where the Confederate States of America were formed in 1861. A brass star on the west portico marks the spot where Jefferson Davis was inaugurated as the Confederacy's first president. Over a century later, the capitol steps became the endpoint of the Selma to Montgomery Voting Rights March in 1965, where Martin Luther King Jr. delivered a historic speech. The Alabama State Capitol is more than just a building; it's a living museum of state history and politics. While the Alabama Legislature now meets at the Alabama State House, the Capitol still houses the Governor's office and other executive branch officers. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the building's history and significance. The Goat Hill Museum Store, located inside the Capitol at the Union Street entrance, offers Alabama-made gifts and souvenirs. The grounds of the Capitol also hold historical significance. The main steps, where the Selma to Montgomery march ended, remain as they were in 1965. The Avenue of Flags and the Confederate Memorial Monument are other notable features.

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