As summer progresses, juggling travel plans, hosting visitors, and dealing with unpredictable weather can be overwhelming. By the end of the season, it's natural to start feeling restless as activities wind down and more time is spent indoors. Finding new ways to stay engaged can be tough. Fortunately, Montgomery is a stunning city with plenty to offer, and many attractions are easily accessible and affordable.
If you're a fan of nature, leisurely evenings, or exploring local landmarks, you'll find plenty of options to cater to your interests right at your fingertips. Check out these awesome ways to have fun and stay entertained without spending a dime! Remember, this list is just the beginning.
Watch the sunset over the Alabama River
Watching the sunset over the Alabama River is an enjoyable and effortless activity to experience in Montgomery. At Riverfront Park, you can take a stroll and find the perfect spot to sit back and witness the sky transform from the setting sun. For a more elevated view, head to the lawn chairs at Red Bluff at the Silos, where you can take in a truly awe-inspiring panoramic view from above. This is the perfect activity for anyone looking to unwind and take in the beauty of nature.
Cool off and splash into fun
Nothing says summer like splashing around in the water, and the Riverfront Park splash pad is the perfect place to do just that. With the warm sun shining, there's nothing like the joy of playing and splashing around in the refreshing water. The Riverfront Park splash pad provides the perfect oasis for families to cool off and have a blast. Take a bag packed with towels and a delicious lunch for later, and make it an unforgettable afternoon of water-filled fun. The area also offers ample seating for parents and guardians to relax and watch their kids delight in the aquatic adventure.
Enjoy an amazing sensory adventure!
Experience a unique outdoor playground designed for healthy entertainment and adventure at the Children's Sensory Trail. This thoughtfully crafted trail aims to provide an engaging outdoor experience for people of all ages to foster a connection with nature. Along the trail, you will find a variety of interactive sensory stations and seating areas strategically placed to stimulate sight, hearing, touch, and smell, allowing visitors to engage in the experience fully. The Children's Sensory Trail is part of the Riverfront Greenway Trail, connecting Cypress Inlet Bridge downtown to Shady Street Trailhead Park near Capitol Oyster Grill. With opportunities for sensory exploration and the chance to appreciate the outdoors, this trail is the ideal outdoor playground, offering an enriching experience for nature enthusiasts and families.
Discover nature's playground
Montgomery is a spectacular city with natural beauty and a great mix of parks and gardens for all nature lovers. While the usual parks are lovely, exploring the nontraditional ones can spice up your summer with added excitement and adventure. Here are a few spots that promise unique experiences and memories.
Located along the banks of the Alabama River, Riverfront Park is a vibrant space where nature meets urban life. It's not just any park; it's a lively hub of activity with green spaces, walking paths, and cultural landmarks waiting to be explored. Visitors can stroll along the river, catch a concert at the amphitheater, or explore the Harriott II Riverboat. It's the ideal spot for those who want to unwind in nature while experiencing the city's cultural charm.
Bicentennial Park provides a peaceful getaway with its beautifully landscaped gardens and historical significance. The park celebrates Alabama's 200th anniversary and showcases a range of sculptures, plaques, and installations that narrate the state's rich history. The park's design promotes exploration, making it an excellent destination for history enthusiasts who enjoy outdoor activities.
Old Cloverdale Community Garden
Located in the heart of the Cloverdale neighborhood, Cloverdale Community Garden offers a charming and intimate setting. This garden is known for its various flowering plants, quaint pathways, and peaceful ambiance. It's an ideal spot for a quiet afternoon walk, a small gathering, or a place to relax and read a book. The garden changes with the seasons, making it a delightful destination year-round.
Shakespeare Gardens & Amphitheatre
The Shakespeare Gardens & Amphitheatre is located within the Alabama Shakespeare Festival grounds. It is a botanical tribute to the works of William Shakespeare, featuring plants and flowers mentioned in his plays, creating a unique and literary-themed landscape. Adjacent to the garden is an amphitheater that hosts performances and events, blending nature with culture in a scenic setting. This garden is perfect for literature lovers and those looking to enjoy a theatrical experience in the great outdoors.
These places offer more than just relaxation; they provide discovery, learning, and cultural immersion opportunities. Plan visits to these unique spots and create unforgettable memories to make the most of your summer. Extend your adventures beyond these nontraditional parks and gardens. If you're looking for more traditional park experiences or scenic picnic spots for the fall, check out our Parks and Gardens page and our blog post on Montgomery's Scenic Fall Picnic Spots.
Discover Montgomery through its murals and sculptures
Taking a photo tour of Montgomery's murals and sculptures is a fun and engaging way to spend your time and an opportunity to connect with the city's artistic and historical heritage. If you're looking for a fun outdoor activity, a cultural scavenger hunt, or a way to appreciate the local art scene, Montgomery's public art provides an accessible and enjoyable experience for all. This activity invites you to see Montgomery through a new lens and celebrate the creativity that defines it.
Montgomery's murals tell the story of the city's past and present, reflecting its diverse culture and historical significance. As you wander through the streets, you'll encounter colorful artworks that capture the spirit of the community. Visit our mural page for a map. In addition to murals, Montgomery boasts a remarkable collection of sculptures and statues that highlight significant figures and moments in history.
Here's a short list to get you started on your sculpture photo tour (many others are waiting for you to discover them!):
- Rosa Parks (Court St)
- Rosa Parks (Legacy Sites)
- MLK (Legacy Sites)
- Pigeon (near Rosa Parks Museum)
- Giant Baseball (Near Riverwalk Stadium)
- Troy Trojan (Downtown Montgomery Troy University)
- Hank Williams (At the entrance of Riverfront Park)
- Sculpture Garden (MMFA)
- Shoppes at EastChase (various sculptures around the shopping center)
- Wright Brother's Plane (in Wright Brother's Park)
Take an art tour
In the summertime, Montgomery can be uncomfortable temperature-wise. The scorching sun and high humidity often make it tempting to stay indoors, glued to the television. However, there are far more enriching ways to spend your time. Instead of succumbing to summer monotony, Montgomery offers a delightful escape from the heat through its remarkable indoor art galleries. Not only do these venues provide a refreshing respite, but they also offer free admission, making art accessible to everyone. The Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts offers classical and contemporary art. The museum has permanent collections and special exhibitions, often featuring works from renowned artists worldwide, offering visitors a chance to experience global art trends without leaving Montgomery. MMFA is family-friendly, offering various educational programs, workshops, and interactive exhibits for all ages. Plus, the museum is located in Blount Cultural Park, which is perfect for a stroll before or after your gallery visit.
The Georgine Clarke Alabama Artists Gallery is a must-visit if you're interested in local talent. Located in the RSA Plaza in downtown Montgomery, this gallery provides an ongoing showcase of the work of Alabama artists. The exhibitions frequently change to highlight the state's diverse and vibrant art scene. The gallery promotes established artists and provides a platform for emerging talents, ensuring a fresh and exciting experience with each visit.
Take a cool cultural journey through Montgomery’s museums
Montgomery's museums and historical sites offer a cool sanctuary from the summer heat and an educational and cultural experience. If you are seeking a refreshing change from your daily routine, you don't have to be a history buff to enjoy these cultural treasures waiting for you. Many of these sites are free and require little preparation, making them easy and enjoyable outings.
Take a self-guided tour through the halls of the Alabama State Capitol, where pivotal decisions were made. Explore the beautifully preserved rooms that tell the story of Alabama's political past. Located just across from the Capitol, the First White House of the Confederacy is another gem that offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. This historic house served as the residence of President Jefferson Davis during the early days of the Confederacy. The house is free to enter, though it's worth checking in advance if any special reservations are required for guided tours. If you're interested in the modern-day workings of Alabama's government, visiting the Governor's Mansion is a must. This elegant home provides a unique look into the life and duties of the state's highest officeholder. Guided tours are available by reservation and offer an insider's view of the residence's rooms and the beautiful gardens. Inside the Alabama Department of Archives and History, the Museum of Alabama is a treasure trove of exhibits that cover the state's history from prehistoric times to the present day. Best of all, admission is free, making it a win-win option for everyone. The Mooseum is a delightful stop for families. It is a fun and educational experience centered around Alabama's cattle industry. This unique museum features interactive exhibits designed to educate visitors about the state's history and the importance of cattle farming. Kids will especially love the hands-on activities and life-sized displays. Best of all, The Mooseum is free to enter.
Embrace the opportunity to discover something new and enriching this summer. So, the next time the heat becomes overwhelming, step out and explore Montgomery's diverse and vibrant experiences. While it's tempting to sink into the comfort of your couch and lose yourself in daytime television, Montgomery offers a much more enriching alternative. The best way to beat the heat is by immersing yourself in the city's rich history and vibrant culture.
