Travel and Leisure Top 500

                 Top Places to Visit in Montgomery

When one thinks of Montgomery Alabama, one is tempted to exclaim "Roll Tide Roll." One thinks of Montgomery as one of the birthplaces of the Civil Rights movement, sultry summer nights and southern residents. It lives up to all these names however, there is so much more to see and do in this fantastic city.

• First White House of the Confederacy
• Civil Rights Memorial
• Alabama State Capitol Building
• Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Learning Center

1. The First White House of the Confederacy, the site for the first meeting of the seceding states of the Confederacy on February 4, 1861, to create the Confederate States of America. The house was built between 1832 and 1835 by William Sayre. The new President, Jefferson Davis and family arrived March 4, 1861 and took up residence shortly afterwards as the house was renovated. Today the house is filled with furniture and memorabilia of the Jefferson Family. Historical artifacts and documents from the period are on display.


2. The Civil Rights Memorial, a touching memorial to those who died fighting for civil rights, is a black granite table with the names engraved who gave their lives. Water flows out of the center of the memorial and flows out over the table. A very moving monument, one is encouraged to touch the names and linger out of respect. The Memorial was designed by the designer of the Viet Nam Veteran's Memorial in Washington, Maya Lin.


3. The Alabama State Capitol Building, first occupied October 1, 1855, later became for a short while, the Capitol of the Confederacy before moving to Richmond, Virginia. The building is filled with history and has been the scene of many historical events. An attractive cantilever staircase winds up to the second floor from the entrance, providing one a spectacular view of the gorgeous dome.


4. With over 500 animals from five continents, the Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Learning Center, spill out over 40 acres of ground. One can stroll through the zoo at one's leisure or take the train on a guided tour. There is an opportunity to study the feeding of some of the animals, to touch some and offers the children a delightful experience. The café is available, so one can spend the whole day in this fabulous zoo.


5. The Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts contains some of the most fantastic art collections that are available anywhere. One can join a tour, or one can pick up a recorded instrument that will provide details of the various exhibits. One can see the charming Bookstore to pick up photos, books and items, and one can enjoy a delicious lunch at the café, located in the museum as well. It is easy to spend the whole day here.

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