Month: September 2023

7 Essential Things to Do in Montgomery, Alabama

A body of water with a city in the background

If you’re considering a move to Montgomery, Alabama, you’re in for a treat! Our city has a lot to offer for everyone in the family. We’re here to introduce you to seven must-visit places that make Montgomery an amazing place to live. Whether you’re a newcomer, a longtime resident, or somewhere in between, read on to explore the top-rated attractions that define Montgomery.

1. Montgomery Zoo

Embark on an unforgettable adventure at the Montgomery Zoo, conveniently located just a quick 10-minute drive from downtown. This family-favorite destination spans 40 acres and is home to over 700 animals representing five continents. It features natural, barrier-free exhibits that allow you to peek into the habitats of creatures from around the world. While you’re there, be sure to take a ride on the Zoofari Skylift for amazing views of the zoo, say hello to a giraffe eye-to-eye at the Giraffe Encounter, enjoy hands-on fun at the Petting Zoo, and spend some time with the colorful residents of Parakeet Cove! 

2. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts (MMFA)

Uncover the hidden gem that is the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts! MMFA has been enriching the lives of locals and visitors since its founding in 1930. Inside, you’ll uncover a captivating collection of over 4,000 works by American artists, spanning from the 18th century all the way up to modern times.  Don’t miss the ArtWorks Interactive Gallery, where art enthusiasts of all ages can engage with hands-on exhibits that explore the materials, ideas, and techniques behind each masterpiece. The best part? Admission is free– though donations are accepted and greatly appreciated. 

3. Alabama Shakespeare Festival (ASF)

Experience world-class live entertainment at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, one of the world’s largest Shakespeare festivals. ASF comes to life with 6-9 productions each season that feature a mix of genres and playwrights, ranging from timeless classics to modern dramas. What makes ASF even more special is its dedication to bringing Southern stories to life, infusing the stage with a unique charm. Whether you’re a seasoned theatergoer or you’re just looking for a fantastic night out in Montgomery, ASF is your ticket to an unforgettable evening that will leave you inspired and entertained.

4. Montgomery Biscuits Baseball

Historic Riverwalk Stadium is home to the Montgomery Biscuits, Montgomery’s very own AA Minor League Baseball Team. Before you settle into your seat to watch the game, take a leisurely stroll around the stadium’s open-air concourse and enjoy some signature biscuits (both sweet and savory). When it’s time to beat the heat, head over to the Club Car Bar for a refreshing Crafty Lefty Lemon Shandy. It’s the perfect combination for an unforgettable evening in Montgomery!

5. Alabama State Capitol

If you’re a history enthusiast, the Alabama State Capitol is a must-visit. Nestled in the heart of downtown Montgomery, this National Historic Landmark serves as a working museum that offers a glimpse into Alabama’s rich past and political journey. Here, you can stand right where the Confederacy was born, as well as where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. delivered his iconic “How Long, Not Long” speech at the end of the third march from Selma to Montgomery. A visit to the Capitol building is a journey through time that will give you a deeper understanding of Alabama’s pivotal role in shaping our nation’s story.

6. EJI Legacy Museum and Memorial

Situated on the grounds of a former warehouse where Black individuals were once subjected to forced labor and near a historical slave auction site, The Legacy Museum: From Enslavement to Mass Incarceration is a powerful narrative museum that explores America’s history of racial injustice. After checking out the museum, carve out time to visit the nearby National Memorial for Peace and Justice. The memorial features hundreds of suspended steel columns engraved with the names of U.S. counties where lynchings occurred. It’s an essential experience that sheds light on a dark chapter of our nation’s past and calls for reflection on our ongoing journey toward justice and equality.

7. Montgomery Whitewater

Located minutes from downtown Montgomery along the scenic banks of the Alabama River, Montgomery Whitewater is a 120-acre outdoor adventure park that offers a variety of guided and unguided paddling activities for all skill levels. Whether you’re an expert or a whitewater beginner, you can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, from the exhilarating Competition Channel to the more serene Creek Channel. Gear up and get ready for a thrilling day on the water!

Ready to make Montgomery your home sweet home in the vibrant New Park community? Contact New Park today to explore a range of beautiful homes for sale and discover why it’s the perfect neighborhood for you! 

 

PLUS: Copycat Chris’ Hot Dog Sauce 

Chris’ Famous Hotdogs has been a Montgomery institution since 1917. Bring a piece of Montgomery history into your own kitchen with this Copycat Chris’ Hot Dog Sauce recipe!