1963 Birmingham Civil Rights Experience - Black History Matters Walking Tour
Birmingham, US
100% of travellers recommend this
Highlights
- Explore the Black contributions to the founding of Birmingham
- Discover the history of the 1926 Red Line Zoning laws
- Visit a park and statues dedicated to the local founder of the Temptations
- Witness the remnants of a once dynamic "city within a city"
- Experience the emotionally powerful sculptures at Kelly Ingram Park
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Duration 1-1.5 hours
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Expert local guide
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All fees and taxes included
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Wheelchair accessible
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Infants in prams allowed
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the powerful history of the 1963 Birmingham Civil Rights Experience - Black History Matters Walking Tour. Led by the incredible Wilhelmina Thomas, a storyteller and craftivist who grew up in the heart of Birmingham, this tour will take you on a journey through the struggles and triumphs of African Americans in the most segregated city in the country. From visiting historic churches to exploring significant Civil Rights Movement landmarks, every step will unveil the untold stories and the true essence of this transformative period. Feel the passion and determination that fueled the movement as you hear firsthand accounts and witness the impact it had on the community. Don't miss this opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of Afro-American and Birmingham history. Join us on this eye-opening tour and let the past come alive before your very eyes.
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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1 hours
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Instant Confirmation
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Available in English
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Wheelchair accessible
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Mobile voucher
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Small Group tour
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Guided
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Family friendly
Featured Reviews
Explore Birmingham's civil rights history on a poignant walking tour led by a local expert, uncovering the struggles and triumphs of African Americans.
Included
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All fees and taxes
Meeting Point
285 20th Street North, Birmingham, AL 35206 - on the SouthEast corner of 20th Street North and 3rd Avenue North...This is DOWNTOWN BIRMINGHAM - not Irondale (please check your GPS)
520 16th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203 , United States
End Point
285 20th Street North, Birmingham, AL 35206 - on the SouthEast corner of 20th Street North and 3rd Avenue North...This is DOWNTOWN BIRMINGHAM - not Irondale (please check your GPS)
520 16th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203 , United States
What to expect
Birmingham Ghosts: Ghost Tours and Haunted Pub Crawls
Your tour begins at our shop and proceeds down 20th street toward 4th Ave North covering the Black contributions to the founding of Birmingham
15 minutes
4th Ave N
This leg of the tour covers the 1926 Red Line Zoning laws, the Palm Leaf Hotel, and the Chitlin' Circut.
Eddie Kendrick Memorial Park
A park and statues dedicated to our local founder of the Temptations
10 minutes
4th Avenue Business District
The remnants of our once dynamic "city within a city" with possible stop in Nelson Brothers and Green Acres.
Civil Rights District
This is the center of the Civil Rights National Historic Monument
Carver Theater
One of the best Black theaters - now the Jazz Hall of Fame...also you will see the Prince Hall "Colored" Masonic Lodge
10 minutes
Kelly Ingram Park
Kelly Ingram Park is an improved public park that contains emotionally powerful sculptures depicting the civil rights struggle in Birmingham. The park served as an assembly spot for activities of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and other groups in the movement.
15 minutes
16th Street Baptist Church
The 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama, stands as a poignant symbol of the Civil Rights Movement, marked by its tragic history as the site of a racially motivated bombing in 1963, which resulted in the loss of four young girls. This historic church remains a powerful testament to the struggle for civil rights and a focal point in the ongoing journey toward racial equality in the United States.
15 minutes
Admission Not Included
A.G. Gaston Motel
The A.G. Gaston Motel, built by prominent African American businessman and entrepreneur, Arthur George Gaston (1892-1996), provided first-class lodging and dining in Birmingham, Alabama, to African American travelers. Designed by Birmingham-based architect Stanley B. Echols, the motel opened in 1954
10 minutes
Lyric Theatre
Our only standing theater that allowed mixed (though still segregated) audiences
10 minutes
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
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Wheelchair accessible -
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
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Service animals allowed
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Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
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Not recommended for pregnant participants
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Not recommended for participants with poor cardiovascular health
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Participants should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
What our experts say
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Visit nearby 16th Street Baptist Church -
Try lunch at the nearby Pizitz Food Hall
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Check out the Civil Rights Institute after
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Bring water, it can be warm outside
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Wear comfortable shoes for walking
More About this Experience
Introduction
The 1963 Birmingham Civil Rights Experience - Black History Matters Walking Tour is a powerful and eye-opening journey into the past, uncovering the true stories and struggles of African Americans in the most segregated city in the United States. Led by the incredible Wilhelmina Thomas, a storyteller, needlewoman, and passionate advocate of Afro, Afro American, and Birmingham history, this tour offers a unique and immersive experience.What to expect?
During this 60 to 90-minute tour, you can expect to be taken on a captivating journey through Birmingham's rich history. Starting at the shop on 20th Street North Downtown Birmingham, the tour will lead you through various significant locations, including the site of the 16th Street Baptist Church bombing and Kelly Ingram Park, which portray the struggles and triumphs of the Civil Rights Movement. Along the way, you'll learn about the contributions of Black individuals to the founding of Birmingham, the impact of the Red Line Zoning laws, and the vibrant cultural heritage of the city.Who is this for?
This tour is for anyone with an interest in history, social justice, and Black culture. It provides a platform for understanding the challenges faced by African Americans during a turbulent period in American history. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a student, or simply curious about the Civil Rights Movement, this tour is an opportunity to deepen your knowledge and gain a firsthand perspective on the struggles for equality.Why book this?
This tour stands out for its authenticity and the personal touch that Wilhelmina Thomas brings to each experience. As a resident of Birmingham, she possesses an intimate knowledge of the city and its history. Her storytelling skills and passion for her heritage make this tour a truly unique and engaging experience. The tour not only educates but also inspires visitors to reflect on the progress made in advancing civil rights and the work that still lies ahead.Good to know
It is important to note that this tour starts at the shop on 20th Street North Downtown Birmingham, so be sure to check your GPS for the correct location. The tour lasts approximately 60 to 90 minutes, providing ample time to soak in the rich history and significance of each stop along the way. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring a hat and sunscreen for the walk. Prepare to be moved and inspired as you listen to Wilhelmina's stories and witness the impactful landmarks of the Civil Rights Movement.Reviews
Visitors who have taken part in the 1963 Birmingham Civil Rights Experience - Black History Matters Walking Tour have been profoundly touched by the emotional journey it offers. They praise Wilhelmina's knowledge, storytelling ability, and passion for preserving the history and culture of African Americans in Birmingham. Many describe the tour as eye-opening, educational, and an essential experience for anyone interested in understanding the struggles of the Civil Rights Movement. Travelers leave feeling enlightened, inspired, and with a renewed appreciation for the importance of continuing the fight for equality.
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