Old Alabama Town
Old Alabama Town can be engaging for children because it feels like stepping into a historic village with buildings to explore. It gives families a hands-on way to experience local history.
Old Alabama Town is a historic downtown Montgomery site made up of restored 19th- and early 20th-century buildings that help visitors picture everyday life in Alabama’s past. It’s a good family outing because you can walk through a cluster of old homes, shops, and work spaces at an easy pace, with plenty of visual details that make the history feel tangible rather than abstract. The setting is especially appealing for travelers who like open-air heritage sites and want a break from more formal museums.
History
Old Alabama Town is a preservation project in Montgomery that brings together relocated and restored historic buildings from across Alabama, creating a streetscape that reflects different periods of the state’s past. It was developed by the Landmarks Foundation of Montgomery as a way to save significant old structures from demolition and give them a new public life as part of a historic district.
Expert notes
- Plan for outdoor walking between buildings; shade and weather can affect comfort.
- Good choice for families and school-age children who enjoy hands-on history and old houses.
- If you want the fullest experience, allow extra time to read interpretive signs and look inside the buildings that are open.
More things to do in Montgomery
Freedom Rides MuseumFreedom Rides Museum is a compact, educational attraction that can be a good fit for families interested in history. It’s especially suitable for older children and teens who can appreciate the story behind the site.
Rosa Parks MuseumThe Rosa Parks Museum is a meaningful, accessible stop for families introducing children to civil rights history. Its exhibits can help older kids connect with an important part of American history.
Hank Williams StatueA well-known landmark honoring Hank Williams, it adds to Montgomery’s music history and is a recognizable cultural attraction downtown.
Montgomery WhitewaterAn outdoor adventure destination with whitewater activities and park amenities, great for active recreation.
The Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald MuseumThe Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum can be a pleasant family stop for visitors interested in literature and historic homes. It offers a quieter, more relaxed cultural experience.
Dexter Parsonage MuseumThe former home of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in Montgomery, this museum is deeply tied to the Civil Rights Movement and the city’s history.