Birmingham Civil Rights Institute - Birmingham, Alabama

Ellie Herman

Nestled in the heart of Birmingham, this museum offers a poignant journey through the Civil Rights Movement, a visit that both uplifts and weighs heavy on the heart. As my partner and I walked through its thoughtfully curated exhibits, we felt the weight of the city's painful history—its stories of violence, oppression, and resilience echoing through the halls.

The experience begins with a compelling eight-minute video, setting the tone for what lies ahead. From there, visitors are invited to meander through a carefully designed path, allowing for a personal exploration at one's own pace. Each room unfolds a rich tapestry of history, featuring a captivating mix of videos, photographs, and informational plaques that invite deeper reflection.

Amidst the sadness, there are moments of hope and inspiration, reminding us of the strength of those who fought for justice. The museum is a space that encourages both contemplation and engagement, offering countless opportunities to see, touch, and photograph the artifacts of a struggle that shaped the nation. It’s a visit that is not only important but essential, leaving a lasting impact long after you step outside.

You can enjoy a very colorful and change of pace art installation at the end. They had Day of the Dead while we visited and it was beautiful.

Janeth

10.11.2025 - I visited this Museum. It is well organized and filled will pertinent information regarding Birmingham’s Civil Rights history.

The cost is $15. I ended up having to pay an additional $1 for a locker because my purse was too big

Paige C

I wholeheartedly believe that every single human should have to walk through this museum and to reflect on our past in order to truly provide a better future. Every worker was very kind and thoughtful. We particularly loved the greeter with the big bright smile that welcomed us into the museum. He said he has worked there for 31 years. It was a very difficult walk through. I cried several different times at the atrocities black people have endured since the beginning of time and even up until this time. Things are still not where they should be when it comes to
Injustice and prejudice, they are so much better than what they were (thanks to All of the civil rights activists-may their pain and deaths never be in vain.) allot at least two hours to fully immerse yourself in the experience. Take your time. Really get In touch with your emotions and allow yourself to feel all of the things the museum wants you to experience. Incredible experience. This doesn’t change my rating at all, but the only thing I would say could be better is the baby changing Situation. If you have a child in diapers, there are no changing tables in the privacy of the bathroom. There is a changing table out in the open by the restrooms in the hallway, which we thought was very inappropriate and bizarre to be expected to
Change your child out in public in broad view of several windows and people passing by. This could easily be fixed by moving the changing table into a restroom.

Stacey McGriff-Hodges

I was speechless! I could feel pain, frustration and fear. As we all walk, looked and listened through the facility. A cultural mixture of people quietly moving through each exhibit you could feel the sudden silence that loomed over everyone. It is one thing to read about historical events. It is something else to have life size displays and the real voice of the people is transformative.

Talisha

Great Civil Rights Museum with amazing reenactment displays and intricate artwork. Thanks Birmingham for allowing me to enjoy and admire this beautiful city

Neil Lewis

The BCRI is a good museum that examines the civil rights movement through the lens of Birmingham. There are some bright spots here, I loved seeing a fascinating documentary playing from 1956 which I just stood there and watched for 15 minutes and had to leave due to being in a bit of a time crunch. The museum staff was friendly and helpful but they did not help their young docent as audio clips would play automatically while she was speaking to us. Either turn off the sounds or let it be self-guided, due to this weird sound disconnect I spent about half my time alone (which is fine). The BCRI suffers by now being in the shadow of the Legacy Museum in Montgomery and while a little expensive for what it is, I think it’s a great first museum for kids and if you’re in town, give it a visit.

Andie B

For us millennials who were not brought up in the US, this museum visit was quite educational as it gave us remarkable insight into the segregation practices that prevailed in the US, particularly in Alabama and its neighboring states. Several exhibits depicted heart-wrenching events and atrocities that people of color have suffered through the ages. Recommend visiting.

Aziza Hasan

What a powerful place to experience! Take your time & take it in. It reminds me how even when you advocate for the things that matter in loving ways, the response can be brutal. I especially love that the experience connects you to your own story and standing up for your values.