In the 1960s, Birmingham, Alabama, was at the epicenter of the fight for civil rights. Today, the Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument honors the struggles that African Americans endured there as they fought segregation. Spread over four city blocks, the monument brings the experience to life with historic sites, educational plaques, and life-size sculptures. During your visit, you can explore the same streets that the legendary Fred Shuttlesworth and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. walked during their epic struggle for equality. This monument makes a quick standalone trip or a great addition to a journey along the Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail.
Drive about 30 minutes from the Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument, and you'll find a selection of beautiful campgrounds. Whether you'd rather be close to town or tucked into the wilderness, an RV is a great way to enjoy the local history and landscape. To make your trip more convenient, rent an RV from RVshare.
The Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument is spread over four blocks in downtown Birmingham, so walking is the best way to explore. Start in Kelly Ingram Park where a series of sculptures provides a glimpse into the treatment of African Americans as they fought for civil rights. Nearby, you can walk to the A.G. Gaston Motel, the 16th Street Baptist Church, and the Fourth Avenue Historic District. While you're there, stop by the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute to learn about the Civil Rights era — with its exceptional immersive exhibits, this spot is a must-visit destination. Particularly memorable is the Barriers Gallery, which puts segregation into stark relief by showing how water foundations and other facilities were designated as "white" and "colored."
Hiking TrailsLocated right in the middle of the Birmingham sprawl about 2 miles from the Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument, the Vulcan Walking Trail is a beautiful place to enjoy the wilderness. It's slightly less than 2 miles long, but it offers the chance to stroll through the forest and climb a gentle ridge to a view of the city. The trail is wide and paved, so it's a great option for bikes, strollers, and families with kids.
1701 Valley View Dr., Birmingham, AL 35209
2 miles round-trip
Easy to Intermediate
An 11-mile drive takes you to the Irondale Furnace Trail, which leads to the historic ruins of the Irondale Blast Furnace. This area has been in use since the Civil War; today, you can read the story on the interpretive signs at the end of the trail. The trail is unpaved, but it's wide and flat enough for hiking or biking.
4175 Stone River Road, Mountain Brook, AL 35213
1.5 miles round-trip
Easy to Moderate
About 10 miles from the Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument, the Ruffner Mountain trail network offers a beautiful wilderness hiking experience. Follow the trails around the mountain, across rocky outcroppings, and up to overlook points. Keep an eye out for industrial relics that were left after the mountain's days as a busy mining site. If you have little ones, make sure to stop into the nature center.
1214 81st St. S., Birmingham, AL 35206
0-14 miles
Easy to Moderate
SightseeingThe 16th Street Baptist Church made history in 1873 when it became the first African American church in Birmingham. The church was a hub for social and religious activity in the community. During the struggle for civil rights in the 1960s, it became a meeting house that hosted leaders including Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Tragedy struck in 1963 when a bomb was set off in the church, killing four children and leaving many others injured. The church is still in operation today serving as a lasting testament to the Civil Rights movement and continuing efforts.
1530 6th Ave. N., Birmingham, AL 35203
In 1963, Dr. Martin Luther King stayed at the A.G. Gaston Motel in Room 30. During his time there, he met with many civil rights leaders. After a memorable news conference in May of 1963, two bombs intended for Dr. King exploded near his room. The hotel was also the site of many other meetings and conferences throughout the area. Today, it's part of the Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument.
1510 5th Ave. N., Birmingham, AL 35203
In the 1960s, Birmingham was in the midst of enforced segregation. During that time, the Fourth Avenue Historic District came to prominence as a hub for black-owned businesses that catered to the city's African American population. The area was a thriving commercial, retail, and entertainment center. Today, the district is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
1500 - 1900 4th Ave. N., Birmingham, AL 35203
Museums Nearby Shops and RestaurantsDitch the diet when you visit Green Acres Café — you'll want to enjoy every bite of the restaurant's famous fried chicken, okra, and fried green tomatoes. Eat at the small counter or take your food to go.
1705 4th Ave. N., Birmingham, AL 35203
Dig into a bowl of Japanese ramen at Shu Shop, a friendly spot located a short walk from the Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument. Known for its flavorful broth and fresh ingredients, this spot is popular with tourists, students, and locals.
1820 3rd Ave. N., Birmingham, AL 35203
Trattoria Zaza serves delicious pizzas and indulgent pasta dishes in a relaxed environment in downtown Birmingham. Try the baked mac and cheese, or keep it light with a slice-and-salad combo.
207A 20th St. N., Birmingham, AL 35203
Ferrill African Wear specializes in African-inspired fashions. Whether you want a wax-print dress in brilliant colors and traditional prints or a bold accessory, you'll find it here.
320 16th St. N., Birmingham, AL 35203
Jim Reed Books offers a fascinating collection of books, so you can pick up a book to read at your campsite. You'll also find antiques, collectibles, and movie posters.
2021 3rd Ave. N., Birmingham, AL 35203
There's always something new to buy at The Cottage Basket, a charming gift shop with an excellent selection. Whether you need a piece of home decor or a unique necklace, this friendly shop has you covered.
1816 28th Ave. S., Suite E, Homewood, AL 35209
Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument is located in the center of Birmingham, Alabama, just a few minutes from the intersection of I-20 and I-65. From I-65, take Exit 123 to Finley Boulevard and head east; the monument is less than 1 mile away.
1510 5th Ave. N., Birmingham, AL 35203
Fee: Entry fee $0
With its rich and heartbreaking history, the Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument is well worth a visit. Enjoy a stroll through the historic downtown area as you learn about the trials and triumphs of the Civil Rights era, and reflect on the country's history while you explore each site. An RV makes it easy to set up a home base and check out the different historic and wilderness areas in Birmingham and the surrounding countryside.
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