Historic civil rights site commemorating the 1961 Freedom Riders through preserved landmarks, interpretive signage, and outdoor exhibits open to the public.
General Information
Anniston Greyhound Bus Depot: Wednesdays only, 10am to 3pm (except holidays)
How to Get There
From Birmingham, AL (65 mi): Take I-20 E to Exit 179, follow AL-202 E, turn right onto Old Birmingham Hwy, then follow signs to the Bus Burning Site or continue to Gurnee Ave for the Greyhound Bus Depot.
Overview
The Freedom Riders National Monument preserves two pivotal sites in the American Civil Rights Movement: the former Greyhound Bus Depot in downtown Anniston and the location where a bus carrying Freedom Riders was firebombed on May 14, 1961. These courageous activists, both Black and white, were challenging segregation in interstate travel when they were violently attacked by a mob. The shocking images of the burning bus galvanized national attention and helped spur federal enforcement of desegregation laws. Today, visitors can explore interpretive panels, audio tours, and preserved architecture that tell the story of this turning point in civil rights history.
The monument is a “park in progress,” with limited facilities but powerful storytelling through its outdoor exhibits and historic context. The Bus Burning Site is accessible 24/7, while the Greyhound Depot is open to the public on Wednesdays. The monument is part of the Anniston Civil Rights Trail, which includes additional stops that highlight the city’s role in the broader movement. Whether you're a student of history or a traveler seeking meaningful places, the Freedom Riders National Monument offers a sobering and inspiring experience that honors the bravery of those who risked everything for justice.
This article uses material from the Wikipedia articles and official tourism pages for the https://www.nps.gov/frri/index.htm, which are released under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share-Alike License 3.0.
