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Old Tavern Museum: A Step Back in Time

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

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The Old Tavern Museum in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, built in 1827, offers a glimpse into the city's past as a tavern, hotel, and significant meeting place during its time as the state capital. One of the few remaining 19th-century inns in the state, it showcases early Tuscaloosa commercial architecture and the lives of early Alabamians.

A brief summary to Old Tavern Museum

Local tips

  • Check the museum's limited opening hours before visiting.
  • 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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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.

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Discover more about Old Tavern Museum

Step back in time at the Old Tavern Museum, a charming historical landmark in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Built in 1827 by Innkeeper William Dunton, it served as a tavern and hotel along the stagecoach route. The Old Tavern is one of the few remaining 19th-century inns in Alabama, providing a rare look at early Tuscaloosa commercial architecture. Originally located three blocks away, the Tavern played a significant role in the city's social and political life, especially when Tuscaloosa was the capital of Alabama from 1826 to 1846. It hosted legislators, Confederate soldiers, and travelers. Governor John Gayle even resided here from 1831 to 1835. In 1964, the Tuscaloosa County Preservation Society acquired the Old Tavern and moved it to Capitol Park, restoring it to preserve its historical integrity. Today, the museum features artifacts, documents, and exhibits detailing the lives of early settlers 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.

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