Greek Revival government building and working museum featuring restored legislative chambers, murals, and historic grounds central to Alabama’s political legacy.
General Information
Saturday: 9am to 3pm (limited access)
Closed Sunday and state holidays
Guided tours available by appointment for groups of 15 or more
Guided tours are also free but require advance scheduling
Leashed pets allowed on outdoor grounds
How to Get There
From downtown Montgomery, head east on Dexter Avenue, and the Capitol will be directly ahead at the top of Goat Hill.
Overview
The Alabama State Capitol is a National Historic Landmark and a living symbol of the state’s political and cultural heritage. Completed in 1851 in the Greek Revival style, the Capitol sits atop Goat Hill in Montgomery and has served as the seat of Alabama’s government for over 170 years. It was here in 1861 that delegates from Southern states formed the Confederate States of America, and over a century later, the 1965 Selma to Montgomery Voting Rights March led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. concluded on its steps. Inside, visitors can explore restored chambers including the Senate, House of Representatives, and Old Supreme Court, as well as murals and architectural details that reflect Alabama’s complex history.
The Capitol grounds span five acres and include monuments, statues, and gardens that commemorate key figures and events in Alabama’s past. The Goat Hill Museum Store offers locally made gifts and books by Alabama authors. Operated by the Alabama Historical Commission, the Capitol is open to the public for self-guided tours, with guided tours available by appointment. Whether you're interested in architecture, civil rights, or Southern history, the Alabama State Capitol offers a compelling and educational experience in the heart of Montgomery.
This article uses material from the Wikipedia articles and official tourism pages for the Alabama State Capitol, which are released under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share-Alike License 3.0.
