Reviewed by: Cindy Hatcher
Check out this free Civil Rights self-tour in Birmingham
Reading time: 3 minutes
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As Birmingham marks Black History Month, one of downtown’s most accessible and engaging places to reflect on the city’s civil rights legacy isn’t behind museum walls—it’s right under your feet.
The westernmost block of City Walk BHAM is home to the Civil Rights Story Zone, a free space designed to educate, connect and invite reflection in the heart of downtown Birmingham.
We headed there to learn more about the interactive exhibit, and even got the scoop on an exciting new urban development happening soon in Birmingham.
Welcome to the Civil Rights Story Zone
Just a few blocks north of the Birmingham Civil Rights District, the zone offers a family-friendly way to learn about pivotal moments of the Civil Rights Era while enjoying one of the city’s most popular public spaces.
The experience is especially powerful because of its strong sense of place, with street-edge paving patterns that mirror those in the historic Civil Rights District nearby.
The stories highlighted span key moments and figures from the Civil Rights Era, including:
- John Lewis, whose activism and leadership helped expose the brutal realities of segregation during the Selma to Montgomery marches
- The Children’s Crusade (1963), when young demonstrators in Birmingham faced police dogs and fire hoses—images that shocked the nation
- The March on Washington for Jobs & Freedom (1963), a massive demonstration that brought together civil rights leaders and supporters from across the country
Rather than offering lengthy explanations, the zone provides clear, engaging snapshots that encourage reflection and curiosity—especially for families and first-time learners.
Bham Now visited the Story Zone to check it out for ourselves—check it out here:
Coming 2029: Birmingham Civil Rights Crossroads project
The Civil Rights Story Zone also sits at the crossroads of what’s next for downtown Birmingham: the Birmingham Civil Rights Crossroads project.
The project, led by the City of Birmingham and expected to be completed by the end of 2029, aims to improve connectivity, safety and quality of life throughout the Civil Rights District and surrounding neighborhoods.
The project also encompasses the historic 4th Avenue Business District, once a thriving Black business corridor, with a focus on equitable economic development and creating welcoming public spaces that support long-term revitalization.
Spanning 15 blocks, it will feature:
- Protected bike lanes
- ADA-compliant sidewalks and intersections
- Transit access and on-street parking
- Streetscape improvements designed for people, not just cars
Importantly, it will connect the Smithfield and Graymont communities directly to City Walk BHAM—starting at the Civil Rights Story Zone on 16th Street N.
A place to learn + connect
As Birmingham continues to invest in its future, spaces like City Walk’s Civil Rights Story Zone highlight the importance of honoring the past in ways that are inclusive, visible and accessible for all.
Check out our ultimate guide to exploring City Walk’s activities, entertainment + more.
Stay up-to-speed on what’s happening at City Walk BHAM.
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