Whether you’re a history buff or an outdoor enthusiast, there’s something for everyone in Montgomery.
Montgomery, with the State Capitol at dawn. Deposit Photos.
Montgomery is a city steeped in history and culture, well known for its role in the civil rights movement. But there’s more to this Southern gem than just its past. There are plenty of things to do in Montgomery that make it a worthy destination for a day trip from Atlanta – including outdoor adventures, historic sites, delicious food, golf, and a real casino experience.
Montgomery is just 160 miles from downtown Atlanta, making this an easy trip of about 2.5 hours. Of course, your driving time will vary, depending on what part of Atlanta you are starting from.
Leisure Activities in Montgomery
You’ll find plenty of opportunities to eat, drink, and make merry in Montgomery.
♦ Culinary Traditions
If you love southern cooking or soul food, you’ve come to the right place! You’ll find classic fried chicken, smoky barbecued meats, buttermilk biscuits, fried green tomatoes, and more. Plus, Montgomery’s proximity to rivers and the Gulf mean seafood is in good supply — and oysters are among the city’s most famous dish.
♦ Gambling
Alabama is one of a handful of states where gambling is legal on tribal lands — so you can choose to play casino games either online or in person while you’re visiting.
♦ Entertainment Districts
Montgomery offers several designated entertainment districts that feature an open container policy. While you’re within a district, you can purchase an alcoholic beverage from an area restaurant or bar and carry it outside to consume your beverage within the district. Participating restaurants will display a sign near their entrance.
Historic Sites & Museums in Montgomery
Montgomery is known as the birthplace of the Civil Rights Movement. Get a glimpse of the past, when you visit these historic sites and museums.
♦ Rosa Parks Museum
This is a must-visit destination for those interested in civil rights history, with exhibits dedicated to the life and legacy of Rosa Parks, the woman who refused to give up her seat on a Montgomery bus in 1955.
♦ Alabama State Capitol
Take a guided tour of this historic building, which is recognized as an official stop on the U.S. Civil Rights Trail. A brass star on the portico marks the spot where Jefferson Davis was inaugurated as president of the ill-fated Confederacy.
♦ Civil Rights Memorial
The marble memorial features water flowing over a table inscribed with forty names of people who lost their lives in the struggle for equality and integration. There’s also an interpretive Memorial Center to visit.
♦ Dexter Parsonage Museum
Visit the restored house where Martin Luther King, Jr. lived from 1954 to 1959, before moving to Atlanta. The parsonage was bombed several times during the Civil Rights era, but none of the King family were injured.
♦ Hank Williams Museum
Step back in time, to the life of country music’s first superstar at the Hank Williams Museum. Music and artifacts fill the museum – including Hank’s 1952 blue Cadillac.
Outdoor Activities around Montgomery
When you plan your visit, keep in mind that Montgomery has hot, humid summers and mild winters.
♦ Riverfront Park
The park is located along the Alabama River and offers multi-use trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, splash pad, and more. You can also take a cruise on a 19th century riverboat, the Harriott II.
♦ Montgomery Zoo
This is a smaller zoo, yet still a popular family destination, featuring over 700 animals from five continents and a nature museum on site.
♦ Montgomery Whitewater
This 120-ccre world-class adventure center offers rafting and kayaking to outdoor enthusiasts.
♦ Fishing Spots
Fishing opportunities abound in Montgomery’s parks! Some of the best spots to cast your line include:
- Lake Jordan: This 6,800-acre lake is located just north of the city and is home to a variety of fish species, including largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish.
- Alabama River: This river runs through the heart of the city and offers excellent fishing opportunities for a variety of species, including striped bass, catfish, and bream.
- Lake Martin: This 44,000-acre lake is located just east of the city and is known for its excellent bass fishing.
♦ Golf Courses
Montgomery boasts several top-notch golf courses that are sure to challenge and delight golfers of all skill levels. Two of the most popular courses include:
- Lagoon Park Golf Course: This 18-hole course is located in the heart of the city and features beautiful views of the surrounding parks and lakes.
- Capitol Hill Golf Course: This championship course is located just outside the city and offers three separate 18-hole courses, each with its own unique challenges and stunning views.
The Arts in Montgomery
Montgomery has a vibrant arts scene, believe it or not!
If you’re an arts enthusiast, check out one of these cultural institutions:
- Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts — galleries of permanent and traveling exhibits, plus an outdoor sculpture garden.
- Montgomery Symphony Orchestra — celebrating the thrill of live music.
- Alabama Shakespeare Festival — a season of dramas, musicals, original works, and Shakespeare.
Annual Events in Montgomery
Plan your visit around one of these yearly occurrences.
♦ Alabama National Fair
This classic fair usually runs for ten days in October, featuring carnival rides, concerts, food, livestock exhibits, and more.
♦ Riverwalk Wine Festival
A one-day event in October, featuring live music, food, and wine tasting.
♦ Holiday Experience Trail
December is magical in Montgomery. Play your visit around this collection of events including bright holiday lights, tree lighting ceremony, musical and dramatic performances, themed pop-up bars, a holiday riverboat cruise and more.
Montgomery fountain and downtown cityscape at twilight. Deposit Photos.
