Did you know there are a ton of things you can your family can do for fun in the River Region without spending a dime? Here’s part one of your guide to a few free things you can do in our area.
1. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts.
If you want to experience a little bit of the culture Montgomery has to offer, you need to visit the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts in East Montgomery. There’s truly something for everyone at MMFA, from an interactive kids section to both traveling and permanent galleries filled with amazing works of art.
This museum technically offers free admission as well as free parking, but donations are welcome and encouraged. MMFA also hosts lots of free events for the community throughout the year, so make sure to keep an eye on their website to see what’s on the schedule.
2. Museum of Alabama.
History and culture buffs are sure to enjoy a visit to the Alabama Department of Archives and History’s Museum of Alabama in Downtown Montgomery. This museum houses several state-of-the-art galleries filled to the brim with artifacts, audio-visual programs, and lots of information about our region’s history. There’s even a dedicated interactive section of the museum just for kids.
Admission to the Museum of Alabama is always free, and there is limited free parking available nearby. If you do feel like doing a little bit of shopping, make sure to stop by the Museum Store on your way out.
3. First White House of the Confederacy.
This fully furnished 1834 Italianized home served as the first White House of the Confederacy from February 1861 until late May 1861. It has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1974, so it’s a great place to visit if you’re interested in learning more about our area’s history.
You can take a free self-guided tour of the house on weekdays in Downtown Montgomery. If you want to pick up a souvenir, there’s a small gift shop you can visit after your tour.
4. Governor’s Mansion.
Interested in learning even more about Montgomery, both past and present? Since 1951, the Governor’s Mansion in Downtown Montgomery has served as the official residence of the Governor and First Family of Alabama. This home features historical artifacts and gorgeous examples of architecture, so there’s something for everyone to enjoy here.
You can make a reservation to tour the Governor’s Mansion for free on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The mansion also offers free self-guided Holiday Candlelight Tours each December.
Want to tour the mansion for free from the comfort of your own home? That’s totally possible thanks to this virtual tour.
5. Alabama State Capitol.
This National Historic Landmark is filled with artifacts and information about our area’s past. The Alabama State Capitol is also recognized as an official destination on the U.S. Civil Rights Trail, so it’s a perfect place to visit for anyone who’s interested in learning more about Montgomery’s role in the Civil Rights Movement. While you’re at the State Capitol, make sure to check out the restored House of Representatives, Senate Chamber, Old Supreme Court Chamber and Library, and Rotunda.
Free self-guided tours of the Capitol are available to the public on weekdays. Don’t forget to stop by the Goat Hill Museum Store on your way out to pick up a souvenir or two!
6. Hank Williams Memorial.
Head over to Oakwood Cemetery in Downtown Montgomery to check out Hank Williams’ final resting place. This free stop probably won’t take you long, but it’s still a cool place to visit. You won’t have to look too hard to find the gravestone— it’s surrounded by astroturf and granite carvings of music notes and Williams’ legendary hat. Williams’ late wife Audrey is buried here as well.