Museums

Alabama's marine education and research center. Located on the eastern tip of a barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico, the Sea Lab is the home site of the Marine Environmental Sciences Consortium.

Originally founded in 1702 at 27-Mile Bluff up river, Mobile was relocated in 1711 to the current site where a temporary wooden stockade fort was constructed to protect the town. It was named Fort Louis after the old fort up river. In 1723, construction of a new brick fort with a stone foundation began. Renamed Fort Condé in honor of King Louis XIV’s brother. Fort Condé protected Mobile and its citizens for nearly 100 years from 1723-1820. It was built by the French as a defense against British and Spanish attack on the strategic location of Mobile and its Bay, the eastern most part of the Louisiana colony. The military importance of Mobile and Fort Condé was huge. The fort and town protected access into the strategic lands between the Mississippi River and the Atlantic colonies along the Alabama and Tombigbee Rivers. Fort Condé and its surrounding features covered about 11 acres of land. It was built of local brick, stone, earthen dirt walls, and cedar wood. Twenty black slaves and five white workmen did initial work on the fort. If the full size fort were present today, it would take up large sections of Church, Royal, Government, St. Emanuel, and Theatre Streets in downtown Mobile. From 1763 to 1780, England was in possession of Mobile and the fort was renamed Fort Charlotte in honor of King George III’s wife. From 1780 to1813, Spain ruled Mobile and the fort was renamed Fort Carlota. In 1813, Mobile was occupied by United States troops and the fort again named Fort Charlotte. In 1820, Congress authorized the sale and removal of the fort since it was no longer needed for defense. City funds paid for the demolition to make way for new streets and construction built towards the river and southward. By late 1823, most above ground traces of Mobile’s fort were gone. The current Fort Condé, about 1/3 of the original fort recreated in 4/5-scale, opened on July 4, 1976 as part of Mobile’s United States bicentennial celebration.

The Exploreum is an exceptional regional science center for adventurers of all ages. Interactive science exhibits and big screen films provide everyone an entertaining outing for the mind. The Exploreum houses the only Domed IMAX Theater on the Gulf Coast, the only full scale chemistry lab where visitors can participate in experiments and the only 3-D virtual theater! The Gulf Coast Exploreum is a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering science literacy and making science fun.

Mobile's waterfront has seen unlimited transformations aince its 18th century beginnings. Its the heart of our city, economy and our culture. Mobile Landing brings us back to the water-a gateway for our community that connects us again with the rest of the world.

Ever since its founding in 1963 by the Mobile Art Association, the Mobile Museum of Art has offered the community an opportunity for a fascinating adventure into the world of visual arts.

Discover Beautiful Southern History at Oakleigh, Mobile's Official Period House Museum

Located on the eastern tip of Dauphin Island, a barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico, the DISL is surrounded by Mobile Bay, Mississippi Sound and the waters of the Gulf, making it perfectly situated for a wide range of marine science activity.

21st Century innovative exhibits come alive at The Museum of Mobile. Explore Mobile as the first Americans saw it. Relive the passage on an African slave ship. Listen to the stories of Civil War soldiers, and feel the power of nature’s raging storm, the hurricane. Get your hands on history in the Discovery Room, an interactive gallery for the young and young at heart. Visit The Shop in the Southern Market for that unique gift or memento. The Museum of Mobile, making history happen. Come experience it today.

This art-deco museum honors great jazz artists with ties to the state of Alabama. While furnishing educational information, the museum is also a place for entertainment. Exhibits convey the accomplishments of the likes of Nat King Cole, Duke Ellington, Lionel Hampton and Erskine Hawkins and the music that made them famous. Within this fine musical collection, visitors travel from the beginnings of boogie woogie with Clarence "Pinetop" Smith to the jazz space journeys of Sun Ra and his Intergalactic Space Arkestra.

The Alabama Sports Hall of Fame (ASHOF), founded in 1967, is a place where heroes and their memories live forever. No other state can match the number of great sports legends that have ties to this state, either through birth or performance.

The Alabama Veterans Memorial is far more than just a park... It is a message from all Alabamians, recognizing the price of freedom and peace. Amid peaceful Alabama woodlands, you can peruse the names of Alabamians lost to war. A time line in the Memorial walkway outlines historic events of the 20th century, visitors will find descriptions of Alabama's 23 Medal of Honor recipients of the 20th century, and in the courtyard, Medal of Honor stories appear on columns with artwork and letters.

Explore the wilds of Africa, the wonders of the North American wilderness, and the mysteries of 2,000 year old mummies in the seven fascinating exhibit halls of the Anniston Museum of Natural History. Open-air exhibits place you face to face with majestic-and often deadly-animals! See one of the country's oldest exhibits of birds in their habitats, and explore the children's discovery room for hands-on experiences with Alabama's natural wonders. Visit the Changing Exhibit Gallery for a look at how artists interpret nature. Stroll along outdoor nature trails and enjoy global shopping in the Museum Store.

Arlington is a fine example of Greek Revival architecture dating from the 1840s. The house was built by Judge William S. Mudd, one of the ten founders of Birmingham. The house is furnished with a collection of 19th century decorative arts. Located on six acres in the heart of Old Elyton, the first permanent County Seat of Jefferson County, Arlington is a center for historical, cultural, and civic activities.

The Battle of Horseshoe Bend In March 1814, General Jackson's army left Fort Williams on the Coosa, cut a 52-mile trail through the forest in three days, and on the 26th made camp six miles north of Horseshoe Bend. The next morning, Jackson sent General John Coffee and 700 mounted infantry and 600 Cherokee and Lower Creek allies three miles down-stream to cross the Tallapoosa and surround the bend. He took the rest of the army - about 2000 men, consisting of East and West Tennessee militia and the Thirty-ninth U.S. Infantry - into the peninsula and at 10:30 a.m. began an ineffectual two-hour artillery bombardment of the Red Sticks' log barricade.

Nestled in a valley at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Birmingham, Alabama owes its origin to abundant deposits of iron ore, coal and limestone, the essential ingredients for iron and steel making. Ambitious industrialists and land speculators began developing natural resources immediately after the Civil War, or as many southerners called it the War Between the States. A labor force of native white and Black Alabamians, white immigrants from Europe, and prison convicts mined the minerals for capital-intensive corporations.

The Children’s Hands-On Museum is a dynamic learning experience that stimulates curiosity, creativity, and shared discovery in all ages.

On the morning of 27 March 1814, General Andrew Jackson and an army of 3,300 men consisting of Tennessee militia, United States regulars and both Cherokee and Lower Creek allies attacked Chief Menawa and 1,000 Upper Creek or Red Stick warriors fortified in the "horseshoe" bend of the Tallapoosa River. To seal off the bend of the river, the Upper Creeks built an incredibly strong 400 yard long barricade made of dirt and logs. As the Cherokee and Lower Creek warriors swam the Tallapoosa and attacked from the rear, Jackson launched the militia and regular soldiers against the barricade. Facing overwhelming odds, the Red Sticks fought bravely yet ultimately lost the battle. Over 800 Upper Creeks died at Horseshoe Bend defending their homeland. This was the final battle of the Creek War of 1813-14, which is considered part of the War of 1812. In a peace treaty signed after the battle, both the Upper and Lower Creeks were forced to give the United States nearly 20 million acres of land in what is today Alabama and Georgia. The victory here brought Andrew Jackson national attention and helped him to be elected the seventh President of the United States in 1828. This 2,040-acre park preserves the site of the battle.

One of the International Motorsports Hall of Fame's highlight features is the Motorsports Museum. Spanning three buildings and the enclosed courtyard, this collection of history making vehicles is priceless. They represent the crowning achievements of man's abilities and the pursuit of the our limits. To those men, this is a tribute. To all others this is a gift, for the images you see before you are history. The International Motorsports Hall of Fame is recognized because of it's prestigious Induction Ceremony and it's very active and continuously expanding facility. Opened in April of 1983, the International Motorsports Hall of Fame and Museum is a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation of the history of motorsports. It has experienced tremendous growth, with its collection of racing vehicles and memorabilia (from 1902 to present) valued at more than $15 million, and increasing every year.

The Karl C. Harrison Museum of George Washington collection focuses on art and artifacts from the colonial period through 1865. The collection contains paintings, letters, furniture, porcelain, glassware, silver, jewelry, busts and more. Martha Washington’s prayer book printed in New York in 1783, an original 1787 Samuel Vaughn sketch of Mt. Vernon grounds, writing instruments and tools from George Washington’ s survey case and an original tintype depicting Robert E. Lee in his uniform for the last time are just a few collection highlights.

The place between tradition and tommorow, nuturing Southern folk art roots while showcasing emerging American craft artists. Nestled around a landscaped courtyard, you'll find the Kentuck Museum of Art, the Gallery at Kentuck and the acclaimed Kentuck Studio Artists.

The Jonathan B. Lovelace Museum is dedicated to honor Auburn's athletic past, define its present, and inspire future generations. Documenting all of the intercollegtiate sports played by Auburn men and women down through the years, the museum shows Auburn people, and those yet to experience the Auburn spirit, how Auburn's athletic programs have contributed to Auburn's historical traditions. Take a moment to look through our website and revisit some of the many Auburn Sports memories that have been made over the years.

Experience the star-studded history of Daimler-Benz, the world's premier automobile manufacturer. The story is chronicled in the Mercedes-Benz Visitor Center, the first of its kind outside Germany. This architectural showcase, adjacent to Daimler's only U.S. automobile manufacturing plant, brings to life the company's vision - to produce nothing less than the most exceptional automobiles in the world. Much more than a museum, the Visitor Center's exhibits propel people down a multimedia path through the past, present, and future of automotive technology.

Welcome to Moundville Archaeological Park. Eight hundred years ago, Moundville was the largest city in North America. Experience the wonder of this vanished Native American civilization. Choose from the topics to begin your adventure.

The Paul W. Bryant Museum opened its doors to the public October 8, 1988. The museum exhibits artifacts and memorabilia that trace the long history of University of Alabama football. State-of-the-art displays enhanced by videos highlighting great players, plays and games are produced from the museum's archives. A special video production narrated by Keith Jackson chronicles the career of the legendary Coach Paul "Bear" Bryant.

On April 18, 1882 Sloss Furnaces began producing iron and did not stop until ninety years later. Over the decades, Sloss Furnaces gave rise to the city of Birmingham and served as a battleground for economic, employment and social reform. Now recognized as a National Historic Landmark, Sloss Furnaces is open to the public as a museum of industry which speaks to the contributions of the working men who labored there. With its massive furnaces, web of pipes, and tall smokestacks, it offers us a glimpse into the great industrial past of the South and our nation.

Welcome to the world of vintage aircraft, awesome engines, world class models and legendary avation pioneers! Explore the South's avation history up close! Flights of Fancy leaving daily.

Welcome to the Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum, the official railroad museum of the state of Alabama. We're located just south of Birmingham in Calera, Alabama. Our museum features operating standard gauge and narrow gauge trains, two restored depots, an indoor collection of railroad artifacts and memorabilia, and an outdoor collection of railroad cars, locomotives, and cabooses. The museum is dedicated to the preservation, restoration, and operation of historically significant railway equipment. Our exhibits, operating railroads, and educational programs function as both a unique means of tourism and recreation, and also a way to preserve the rich history of Alabama and our nation.

Welcome to the Westervelt-Warner Museum of American Art. We are nestled into a wooded knoll overlooking Lake Tuscaloosa near the picturesque NorthRiver Yacht Club complex in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Our inviting facility features one of the most significant assemblages of American art to be found anywhere. Among our exhibits are hundreds of paintings, sculptures, artifacts and antiques by world-renowned artists such as: James A. McNeill Whistler John Singer Sargent Frederic E. Church Childe Hassam Thomas Cole Andrew Wyeth Winslow Homer Duncan Phyfe Mary Cassatt James Peale The Westervelt-Warner Museum of American Art celebrates significant American historical events and figures. Our collection includes portraits of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson and Marquis de Lafayette, for which the subjects actually sat. Also on display is silver fashioned by Paul Revere, furniture designed and made by Duncan Phyfe, Charles Honore Lannuier and Joseph Barry, among others.

Established to Preserve memories of our veterans. Permanent resting place for artivacts and memorabilia, displaying uniforms, medals, weapons, photos, books, tapes and news clippings.

The Children's Museum of the Shoals, Inc. offers hands-on exhibits and programs geared specifically to the developmental stages and needs of children. Our mission is to further classroom education and compliment existing cultural and educational resources. Exhibits and activities will encourage children to imagine, make choices and create. These exhibits will enable children to discover different cultures, values and occupations, as well as to demystify science, technology and the arts.

Take the mystery out of history at the South's largest hands-on history museum. The South's largest hands-on history museum! Your trip back in time begins in the stately EarlyWorks Children's Museum Rotunda where exhibits bring to life Alabama's early history. Hear stories from the talking tree, play a tune on the giant-sized instruments at the Alabama bandstand and try your hand at building a house in the interactive architecture exhibit. Walk the gangplank and explore a 46-foot keelboat, stroll through Alabama's agricultural and industrial history and try on 1800's clothing in the Federal house.

The Historic Huntsville Depot is the only surviving pre-Civil War passenger depot in Alabama and one of very few left in the U.S. The three-story building was constructed in 1860 and included the area headquarters for the Memphis & Charleston Railroad. Union forces seized the depot in 1862 and used it as a prison for Confederate soldiers.

The Huntsville Museum of Art, North Alabama’s leading visual arts center, moved to its beautiful facility in Big Spring International Park in March 1998. The nationally-accredited Museum fills its seven galleries with a variety of exhibitions throughout the year, including prestigious traveling exhibits and the work of nationally and regionally acclaimed artists. The Museum’s own 2,522-piece permanent collection also forms the basis for several exhibitions each year. In addition, the Museum offers reception areas on the gallery level and in the Great Hall for weddings, meetings and other events. Visitors can also pick out unique gifts in the Museum Store.

Feel the serenity of gliding across the water powered only by the wind. Or motor across the lake, dock your boat next to the Resort Lodge and enjoy a sumptuous meal in luxury surroundings. Enjoy your early mornings in one of the cabins, listening to the birds. Or sip that first cup of coffee by a campfire. Or open a thermos after you've found the perfect spot for the day's fishing. Wake up with a round of golf, a tennis match, or laps in the swimming pool. Or simply sun the morning away. Stroll along the landscaped banks of Wheeler Lake. You might see deer or an eagle or much more of the wildlife so abundant at Joe Wheeler State Park. Located in Northwest Alabama, 2 miles west of Rogersville, off U.S. Highway 72. The Park is approximately 50 miles west of Huntsville, Alabama and 27 miles east of Florence, Alabama. Interstate 65 and Athens, Alabama are 22 miles east of the park.

Sci-Quest is a hands-on science center with more than 125 permanent, interactive exhibits in seven different subject areas. Unlike a typical "museum," Sci-Quest's exhibits are designed to engage, educate and entertain.

Blast Off. Land the Shuttle. Visit Mars. Spin 3 G's. See the Moon. Go Shopping. Eat Lunch. See an IMAX movie...

Museum Hours Open Tuesday through Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Open Sunday 1-5 pm (Sept. 1-Dec. 20) Closed the following holidays: Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day Café Hours Open Tuesday through Friday 11 am to 2 pm. Admission Adults $5.00, Senior Citizens $4.00 Auburn University faculty and staff (I.D. required) - free admission College students-free admission Children to the age of 17 - free admission (Additional fee may be charged for special exhibitions and events.) For general information: 334.844.1484 For membership information: 334.844.3081 For information about facilities rental or special events: 334.844.3485 Museum Mailing Address The Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art at Auburn University 901 South College Street Auburn, Alabama 36849 Museum E-mail Address jcsm@auburn.edu

The Museum welcomes groups and individuals to tour the galleries. The staff endeavors to make each visit both enriching and enjoyable. In order to accommodate those who wish to tour the Museum, groups of ten or more should make advance arrangements for their visit. It is advisable for any group wishing to visit the Museum (whether or not a tour guide is requested) to make an advance reservation to insure space is available.

The South’s premier history village. Old Alabama Town is a collection of authentically restored 19th and 20th century structures. A magnificent setting, it stretches along six blocks in the heart of historic downtown Montgomery, Alabama. Step back in time and experience over 100 years of history as you embark on a journey where you will see meticulously restored and furnished buildings reflecting the lives of the people who settled and developed Central Alabama. Each building creates its own distinctive image of living and working in Alabama’s past. You will see a cross-section of the way life was from the elegant townhouse lifestyle to rural pioneer living.

The Museum is a major landmark in the revitalization of downtown Montgomery constructed on the site of the old Empire Theatre where Mrs. Parks made her courageous and historic stand in 1955. The interpretive museum occupies the first floor and 7,000 square feet of a three-story, 55,000 square foot building that also contains the TROY-Montgomery Campus Library.

The sky was the limit-literally! After the successful flight of Orville and Wilbur Wright in 1903, Americans of all races were stung by the love bug of flight. In the late 1920's and 1930's African Americans in great numbers began their love affair with flight. They learned the basics of flight on either American soil or abroad, and created their own flight schools and clubs. This love affair was kindled in the late 1930's, when the United States Government created Civilian Pilot Training Programs throughout the country to provide a surplus of pilots in case of a national emergency. African Americans were included in these programs, although trained at segregated facilities.

Since the beginning of America’s existence, education has always been considered as one of the keys to social, political and economical acceptance for African Americans. Tuskegee Normal School was established by the state of Alabama, influenced by a former slave and a former slave owner to educate newly freed people and their children. The Normal school, later Institute, became a beacon of hope for African Americans to reach their goal of acceptance. The school officially opened on July 4, 1881 in the African American Methodist Episcopal Zion Church under the auspices of religion. This date was chosen to commemorate the independence of a Nation and the freedom of a forgotten people. Booker T. Washington became the first principal of a newly formed school at the age of twenty-six. He later hired individuals like George W. Carver and Robert Taylor to help lead the institute to its world-renowned status.

The United States Army Aviation Museum, located in South-central Alabama, maintains a collection of over 160 military aircraft, including one of the largest collections of military helicopters in the world. Public galleries represent the Army's involvement in aviation from the beginning days of the Wright brothers and early combat aircraft from World War I, to the highly technological machines flown by Army Aviators today.