By Jessica Klinner
Having lived in Montgomery my entire life, I will be the first person to complain about how boring it is, but if you look hard enough, you’ll find that Montgomery isn’t all that terrible. The city is filled with historical monuments and museums, delicious locally owned restaurants and cafés, and fun, entertaining nightlife. You’re probably thinking, “Are you really talking about Montgomery?” and my answer to you would be, “Yes!” Even though Montgomery is not the most exciting place in the world to live, it definitely has its quirks and charms that make living here a unique experience. Below are 10 of Montgomery’s Best Kept Secrets.
1. F. Scott Fitzgerald Museum
As an English major and all around literature junkie, I was ecstatic to find out about the Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum. Located in downtown Montgomery, it is the only museum dedicated to the famous couple. The museum hosts several events every year dedicated to the life and works of the Fitzgeralds. The museum lies within the Fitzgerald house, where the couple and their daughter Scottie lived from 1931 to 1932. Saved from demolition in 1986, the house is the only remaining residence of the couple in Montgomery. This is a must visit for any literature nerd or anyone interested in learning about the history surrounding Montgomery.
2. Café Louisa
I stumbled across Café Louisa a few years ago while eating at a restaurant nearby. This locally owned café is a much better alternative to Starbucks. They serve lunch, bakery items, and of course, coffee! If you’re a coffee connoisseur, you will love this place. The owner of the café also owns Tomatino’s Pizza and Louisa’s Bakery, both of which are connected to the café. It’s a quiet, quaint place to escape from the daily annoyances of life.
3. Hank Williams Museum
Hank Williams began and ended his career in Montgomery so it was only right to build a museum dedicated to him. As one of the pioneers of country music, Williams’ death brought nearly 25,000 people to Montgomery for his burial ceremony. His remains are buried about a mile from the museum in Oakwood Cemetery. The museum attracts thousands of loyal country music fans from all walks of life and all parts of the country.
4. Rosa Parks Museum
In my opinion, one of the coolest things about Montgomery is its rich history involving the Civil Rights Movement. There are several memorials and tourist attractions dedicated to the movement in downtown Montgomery, but the Rosa Parks Museum is the most well-known and visited. The museum tour transports visitors back in time to the day when Parks refused to give up her seat on a bus to white passengers. We have all heard the story a thousand times, but the museum brings a new perspective to the events of that day and the days that followed.
5. Civil Rights Memorial
If you haven’t figured it out yet, Montgomery is rich with civil rights history. The Civil Rights Memorial is located downtown adjacent to the Civil Rights Memorial Center. The monument was built to honor those who lost their lives during the Civil Rights Movement between the years of 1954 and 1968. It is free and open to the public 24 hours a day. The most exceptional thing about the monument is the artist, Maya Lin, who also created the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. It’s such a simple monument, but it means so much and reminds us of a significant time in our city and nation’s history.
6. Capri Theater
The Capri is by far one of my favorite places to go in Montgomery. Beneath all the hustle and bustle of the boring city life, sits this small, intimate theater. The Capri plays mostly indie films and old films you can’t see anywhere else. Conveniently located in Old Cloverdale next to Sinclair’s and across the street from Café Louisa, it’s the perfect spot for a date night. There’s just something about this theater that makes seeing a movie more fun and exciting than at a multiplex.
7. El Rey Burrito Lounge
Located directly next to the Capri Theater lies the best Mexican restaurant in Montgomery. El Rey’s serves only hormone-free meat and vegetables from local farms along with vegan and vegetarian options. The atmosphere is refreshing and relaxing. It’s a great place to go when you want to hang out with friends, eat good food, and enjoy some refreshing adult beverages (their beer selection is the most extensive I’ve ever seen!). If guilt free Mexican food exists, you’ll find it at El Rey’s.
8. Eastbrook Flea Market
If you’re looking for a fun way to kill a few hours, stop by Eastbrook Flea Market. The three-story building is packed with antiques and interesting finds. A few years ago, my friends and I made this a regular shopping place. It’s a locally owned and operated business, which makes shopping there even more enjoyable. There is something for everyone in this place; it just might take a while to find it.
9. Street Café
So maybe this isn’t exactly a secret anymore, but I needed to include it in case someone reads this and has never been. It started as a very small Japanese fusion restaurant off Vaughn Road and eventually expanded into the lot next to it. It’s hard to believe that this restaurant had only 15 tables at one point. Now, it’s a local hot spot. If you’ve never been here before, make a point to go there for your next meal!
10. The Tipping Point
Located a little way out of the city in Hampstead, this semi-secluded bar/restaurant/café is the perfect place to unwind after a long day, especially if you are more laid back. Sometimes bars can be crowded, loud, and just all around obnoxious, but The Tipping Point offers a great atmosphere for enjoying a few drinks and great food with your friends. I’ve heard nothing but great things about this place and plan to check it out very soon. I suggest you do the same!
Contact the writer: jklinner@aum.edu