Old Tavern Museum, Tuscaloosa Travel Guide

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Explore Tuscaloosa's rich history at the Old Tavern Museum, a preserved 19th-century inn showcasing early Alabama life and architecture.

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Old Tavern Museum

The Old Tavern Museum in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, offers a unique glimpse into the city's early 19th-century history. Housed in a beautifully preserved 1827 tavern and hotel, it showcases artifacts and exhibits that chronicle the lives of early Alabamians and the region's development.

A brief summary to Old Tavern Museum

500 Nicks Kids Ave, Tuscaloosa, Alabama, 35401, US
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Tuesday 1:30 pm-2:30 pm
Wednesday 1:30 pm-2:30 pm
Thursday 1:30 pm-2:30 pm
Friday 1:30 pm-2:30 pm
Saturday 1:30 pm-2:30 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Old Tavern Museum.

Check the museum's limited opening hours before your visit.
Combine your visit with a walk through Capitol Park, where the museum is located, to see the ruins of the old Alabama State Capitol.
Consider visiting other nearby attractions, such as the Murphy African American Museum or the Jemison-Van de Graaff Mansion.

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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.

Children's Hands-On Museum

Alabama Museum of Natural History

Paul W. Bryant Museum

Tuscaloosa River Walk

Capitol Park

Explore Old Tavern Museum on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Old Tavern Museum, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the Tuscaloosa Amphitheater, head southwest on Jack Warner Pkwy towards 27th Ave NE. Continue for about 0.5 miles until you reach the intersection with 15th St NE. Turn right onto 15th St NE and walk for another 0.3 miles. Turn left onto 6th Ave NE and walk for about 0.2 miles. The Old Tavern Museum will be on your left at 500 Nicks Kids Ave. There are no costs associated with walking.
Public Transport

From the Tuscaloosa Transit Center, located at 1901 University Blvd, take the Route 1 bus heading towards Northport. Get off at the stop near the intersection of 15th St NE and 6th Ave NE. Walk south on 6th Ave NE for about 0.2 miles, then turn left onto Nicks Kids Ave. The Old Tavern Museum will be located on your right at 500 Nicks Kids Ave. A single bus fare is approximately $1.25.
Driving

From the University of Alabama campus, head north on Campus Dr, then turn left onto 10th Ave NE. Continue straight until you reach 6th St NE, where you will turn right. Follow 6th St NE until you reach 15th St NE and turn left. After about 0.5 miles, turn right onto Nicks Kids Ave. The Old Tavern Museum will be on your right at 500 Nicks Kids Ave. Guest parking is encouraged on University Boulevard. Parking costs vary.

Discover more about Old Tavern Museum

Step back in time at the Old Tavern Museum, a charming historical gem in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Built in 1827 by Innkeeper William Dunton, the Old Tavern was strategically located on the stagecoach route, serving as both a tavern and hotel for weary travelers. It stands as one of the few remaining 19th-century inns in the state, offering a rare glimpse into early Tuscaloosa commercial architecture.Originally situated three blocks from its current location, the Tavern played a significant role in the city's social and political life, especially during Tuscaloosa's time as the capital of Alabama from 1826 to 1846. It provided a temporary home and meeting place for legislators, Confederate soldiers, and visitors. Governor John Gayle even resided here temporarily from 1831 to 1835.The Tuscaloosa County Preservation Society acquired the Old Tavern in 1964 and moved it to Capitol Park, undertaking a restoration to preserve its historical integrity. Today, the museum showcases a collection of artifacts, documents, and exhibits that detail the lives of early settlers, the evolution of the region, and significant events that shaped Tuscaloosa. Visitors can explore furnished rooms, including the tavern room with its large fireplace and antique bar, imagining life in the early 19th century. The museum also hosts events and educational programs, further enriching the visitor experience.