Our recent short stay in Montgomery, Alabama, was a delightful mix of historical exploration and Southern hospitality. Nestled in the heart of the state, Montgomery is rich in history, offering numerous museums and attractions that tell the story of America’s civil rights movement and beyond. For those of you planning a trip, here’s a rundown of our experience and some tips to make the most of your visit.

Accommodations:

Maxwell Air Force Base RV FAM CAMP

We opted to stay at the Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base’s RV FAM CAMP. Located just a short 10-minute drive from downtown Montgomery, it was the perfect base for our explorations. The camp offers all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay, and the proximity to the city means you’re never far from the action. Most importantly for us, we felt safe staying on base.

Other Options For Your RV:

*DISCLAIMER* We have not stayed at any of the following RV parks/campgrounds. Please make sure you do your own due diligence before making a reservation.

1. Gunter Hill Campground

• Location: 561 Booth Road, Montgomery, AL 36108
• Description: Located a short drive from downtown Montgomery, Gunter Hill Campground is part of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers park system. It offers spacious sites with water and electric hookups, beautiful natural surroundings, and access to the Alabama River.
• Amenities: Water and electric hookups, dump station, restrooms, showers, picnic areas, and fishing spots.

2. The Woods RV Park & Campground

• Location: 4350 Sassafras Circle, Montgomery, AL 36105
• Description: The Woods RV Park & Campground is conveniently located near the interstate, making it easy to access from any direction. This park offers large, level sites with full hookups and a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable stay.
• Amenities: Full hookups, Wi-Fi, restrooms, showers, laundry facilities, and a convenience store.

3. Capital City RV Park

• Location: 4655 Old Wetumpka Highway, Montgomery, AL 36110
• Description: Capital City RV Park is a highly-rated park that offers full-service amenities in a peaceful setting. It’s close to Montgomery’s attractions yet provides a quiet retreat with large, well-maintained sites.
• Amenities: Full hookups, Wi-Fi, cable TV, laundry facilities, restrooms, showers, and a dog park.

4. Montgomery South RV Park & Cabins

• Location: 731 Venable Road, Hope Hull, AL 36043
• Description: Located just south of Montgomery, this RV park offers easy access to the city and surrounding areas. It features spacious sites and modern amenities, making it a popular choice for travelers looking for a comfortable and convenient stay.
• Amenities: Full hookups, Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, restrooms, showers, and a convenience store.

7. Kountry Air RV Park

• Location: 2133 Highway 82 West, Prattville, AL 36067
• Description: A short drive from Montgomery, Kountry Air RV Park offers a quiet and relaxing environment with spacious sites and a friendly atmosphere. It’s a great option for those who prefer a more rural setting while still being close to the city.
• Amenities: Full hookups, Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, restrooms, showers, and a pool.

Exploring Montgomery’s Museums

The Legacy Museum

Our journey began at the Legacy Museum: From Enslavement to Mass Incarceration. This powerful museum, located on the site of a former warehouse where enslaved Black people were imprisoned, is a poignant reminder of America’s dark past. The exhibits provide a comprehensive look at the transatlantic slave trade, the Jim Crow era, and the ongoing issues of mass incarceration. The museum’s immersive displays and interactive exhibits are both educational and deeply moving, making it a must-visit. IF YOU PLAN ON TAKING CHILDREN, REVIEW THE WEBSITE AND EXERCISE YOUR DISCRETION, PER THE WEBSITE FAQs.

Rosa Parks Museum

Next, we visited the Rosa Parks Museum, dedicated to the “Mother of the Civil Rights Movement.” Situated on the Troy University campus, this museum honors Rosa Parks’ brave act of defiance on December 1, 1955, when she refused to give up her bus seat to a white man. The museum features a replica of the bus and provides an insightful look into the Montgomery Bus Boycott. It’s an inspiring place that highlights the impact of one woman’s courage on the course of history.

Other Notable Museums

Montgomery is home to several other notable museums that we unfortunately couldn’t fit into our short stay but are highly recommended:

• The National Memorial for Peace and Justice: Also known as the Lynching Memorial, it is a somber and significant monument dedicated to victims of lynching in the United States.
• The Alabama State Archives and History Museum: This museum offers a broader look at the state’s history, from prehistoric times to the present.
• The Hank Williams Museum: A tribute to the country music legend, featuring memorabilia and personal artifacts.

Dining in Montgomery:

Dreamland BBQ

No trip to the South would be complete without indulging in some authentic Southern BBQ. For lunch, we headed to Dreamland BBQ. The ribs were tender, the sauce was flavorful, and the atmosphere was welcoming. We rated it 4.0 stars out of 5 – definitely a solid choice for BBQ enthusiasts.

Best Eateries in the Entire Area

If you’re looking to explore more of Montgomery’s culinary scene, here are some of the best places to eat in the area:

• Central: Located in the downtown entertainment district, Central offers an upscale dining experience with a menu that highlights contemporary Southern cuisine. The ambiance and service are top-notch, making it ideal for a special occasion.
• Vintage Year: This fine dining restaurant is known for its exceptional steaks and seafood, as well as its elegant, cozy atmosphere. Their seasonal menu features locally sourced ingredients, ensuring a fresh and flavorful meal.
• Sa-za: A vibrant Italian eatery, Sa-za serves up delicious pizzas, pastas, and other Italian favorites. The lively atmosphere and creative dishes make it a favorite among both locals and visitors.
• El Rey Burrito Lounge: For a more laid-back dining option, El Rey offers a range of Mexican dishes, from burritos to tacos, all made with fresh ingredients. The casual setting and friendly service add to its appeal.
• The Vintage Café: A charming spot for breakfast or brunch, The Vintage Café offers a delightful menu of pastries, coffee, and light bites. It’s perfect for a relaxing start to your day.

Final Thoughts

Our short stay in Montgomery was both educational and enjoyable. The city’s rich history, coupled with its Southern charm, makes it a fantastic destination for a weekend getaway. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just looking for a place to relax and soak in some culture, Montgomery has something to offer. We left with a deeper appreciation for the city’s significance in American history and a list of reasons to return.