Ways to Honor Black History Month in Montgomery, the Heart of the Civil Rights Movement

Montgomery, Alabama is poised to celebrate Black History Month alongside you.

Recognized as the cradle of the Civil Rights Movement, Montgomery invites "those in search of a meaningful travel experience to explore the area" throughout February, or any time of the year to pay tribute to Black history during a future visit.

"The ongoing social justice movement has sparked a strong desire for educational and purposeful travel," stated Dawn Hathcock, Senior Vice President of the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce. "Montgomery offers visitors a unique perspective that is hard to find elsewhere. Our impactful cultural and civil rights experiences highlight our progress and motivate us to keep striving for change."

The chamber emphasized that there are various indoor and outdoor activities for visitors seeking a "safe and socially distanced way to find hope, strength, and healing by retracing the steps of those who came before us," including Rosa Parks, Martin Luther King Jr., and Judge Frank M. Johnson, all of whom have deep ties to Montgomery.

Looking to plan a trip? Here’s a curated list of destinations and experiences that honor Black History, available now, throughout February, and every day after.

EJI's Legacy Museum

The Legacy Museum: From Enslavement to Mass Incarceration is situated on a site in Montgomery where enslaved individuals were previously held. It reopened in October featuring new exhibits about the Montgomery Bus Boycott and the Transatlantic Slave Trade. Visitors are currently encouraged to wear masks and maintain social distancing. For an outdoor option, the chamber recommends the National Memorial for Peace & Justice, the only memorial in the nation dedicated to the legacy of enslaved African Americans, and those affected by lynching and racial segregation during Jim Crow.

Rosa Parks Library and Museum

The Rosa Parks Museum at Troy University honors the "achievements of those linked to the Montgomery Bus Boycott." Inside, visitors will discover both permanent and temporary exhibits. Face masks are mandatory, and group sizes are limited to eight. For an outdoor option, the chamber recommends visiting the Rosa Parks Statue in downtown Montgomery, situated just steps from where she boarded the bus on December 1, 1955.

The Civil Rights Memorial

The memorial, crafted by Maya Lin, reflects on the history of the Civil Rights Movement and serves as a "thoughtful space to honor those who lost their lives during this tumultuous era," according to the chamber. It features an inscription of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s interpretation of Amos 5:24, stating, "We will not be satisfied until justice flows like waters and righteousness like a mighty stream."

Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church

This church, recognized as a National Historic Landmark, houses the original pulpit used by Martin Luther King Jr. While indoor tours are currently unavailable, visitors can admire the church's exterior.

Dexter Parsonage Museum

This museum was once the home of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., where he resided with his family from 1954 to 1960. Although interior tours are not offered at this time, guests are invited to explore the exterior of the house.

Freedom Rides Museum

The Freedom Rides Museum, recognized as a key site on the U.S. Civil Rights Trail, narrates the tale of 21 young individuals who transformed American history through peaceful protest. Although currently operating at a limited capacity, visitors can still explore the museum with advance ticket purchases.

Frank M. Johnson Jr. Federal Building and United States Courthouse

The historic courtroom where Frank M. Johnson Jr. sanctioned the desegregation of buses in 1956 and ruled the Selma to Montgomery march legal in 1965 is available for tours by appointment.

Chris' Hotdogs

Chris' Hotdogs has been serving customers since 1917. As noted by the Chamber, it was "one of the few restaurants to defy segregation laws and provide meals to all patrons equally. Chris' Hotdogs is a welcoming space where individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and races can enjoy a meal together in this beloved establishment."

Brenda's

When Brenda's opened its doors in 1942, Montgomery was still under segregation. According to the chamber, local NAACP members held clandestine meetings in a hidden garden, teaching African Americans reading and writing skills to help them pass poll tests designed to suppress their voting rights. Today, Brenda's continues to serve its renowned BBQ, making it a must-visit for lunch.

Barbara Gail's Neighborhood Grille

Founded by the Bethune family in 2007, Barbara Gail's is situated along the Selma to Montgomery Trail. This diner is famous for serving one of the best breakfasts in town, perfect for kickstarting your adventure.