The 1954 wing of the A.G. Gaston Motel is closed for renovation. The construction is expected to take 18 months. When completed the site will increase accessibility with a new elevator so all visitors can access the second-floor, new exhibits to tell the story of the building and Project C, and revitalize this historic landmark. Follow the link for more information.
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Expert Verdict & Insider Tips
Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument is a hidden gem located in Alabama. While many tourists flock to the major parks, this national monument offers a much more peaceful and intimate experience with nature. It is preserved for its unique history, diverse habitats, and local significance.
About Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument
Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument is a national monument located in Alabama. Temperatures can soar to extremes of heat and humidity in the summer and fall to damp, wet, cold in the winter. Visitors should dress in comfortable clothing during the summer season, wear comfortable shoes, and use sunscreen. Drink plenty of fluids to maintain hydration. In the spring and fall, visitors should have a light jacket available as temperatures can drop suddenly. Winter temperatures can be unpredictable, ranging from mild to extremely cold.
Via I-65 North or South From I-65, take I-20/59 NE towards Atlanta. Exit at the 17th Street Exit (first exit off of I-20/59). Bear right and proceed to the light. From that light go two blocks to 6th Avenue N. Turn right on to 6th Avenue N. The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute is one block up on your left. A.G. Gaston Motel The interior of the A.G. Gaston Motel is currently closed to the public and updates for the Motel opening will be available on the NPS park website at a later date.
💰 Entrance Fees & Passes
Entry to Birmingham Civil Rights is completely free. There are no general entrance fees or vehicle passes required to access this park unit.
🥾 Things to Do
Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument offers visitors a diverse selection of outdoor experiences. You can participate in a wide array of activities, most notably Guided Tours, Self-Guided Tours - Walking, Museum Exhibits, depending on the season and weather conditions. Path options exist for both casual strollers and expert backcountry adventurers.
📦 Recommended Gear & Packing Checklist
Custom items selected for activities at Birmingham Civil Rights
📋 Visitor Planning Tips for Birmingham Civil Rights
- →Beat the Crowds: Arrive at the main gates or trailheads of Birmingham Civil Rights before 8:00 AM. Parking spaces at popular locations fill up extremely fast, especially during warm peak season weekends.
- →Monitor Active Alerts: There are currently 1 active alerts for Birmingham Civil Rights. Keep an eye on the alert notifications at the top of this guide for crucial information regarding closures or safety issues.
- →Leave No Trace: Help protect the delicate ecosystems of Birmingham Civil Rights. Stay on marked trails, pack out all of your waste, and keep a respectful distance from wildlife.
In 1963, images of snarling police dogs unleashed against non-violent protesters and of children being sprayed with high-pressure hoses appeared in print and television news around the world. These dramatic scenes of violent police aggression against civil rights protesters in Birmingham, Alabama were vivid examples of segregation and racial injustice in America.
Seasonal Visitor Guides
Frequently Asked Questions about Birmingham Civil Rights
About the Author
James R. Mitchell
Founder & Lead Writer — National Park Data
James has visited all 63 designated US national parks and has been writing about outdoor travel for over 12 years. He spent 8 years as a wilderness guide in the Rocky Mountains before founding National Park Data to help visitors plan better, safer, and more enjoyable park trips.
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