Alabama US 80 Panoramic Road

Take a scenic journey through Alabama on US-80 Panoramic Road! This 89 km tour starts in Selma and ends in Montgomery and is best enjoyed during the spring and summer months. This route is suitable for all drivers and can be done on a moderate budget. Along the way, you will be able to take in the beautiful scenery of rural Alabama, and experience the historical sites of Benton, including the Benton Historic District and the Benton Presbyterian Church. You can also see the historic Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma. The road conditions are in excellent condition and the trip should take no more than a day. Enjoy the drive!

Selma, Alabama is a great starting point for the Alabama US 80 Panoramic Road. Located along the Alabama River, Selma is a city rich in history and culture. The National Voting Rights Museum and Institute is a must-see, as it is dedicated to the struggles of the civil rights movement in Selma. The city is also home to the Edmund Pettus Bridge, a prominent symbol of the civil rights struggle and the site of the 1965 march. Other attractions in the city include Sturdivant Hall, a beautiful antebellum mansion, and the Old Depot Museum, which provides a glimpse into the city's past. For travelers arriving by air, the closest international airport is the Montgomery Regional Airport (MGM), located just 40 miles away. Car rental services are available at the airport. Exploring Selma by car is the perfect way to start the Alabama US 80 Panoramic Road.

If you're planning a road trip in the United States, why not start in Selma and end in Benton? This 16mi journey will take you less than an hour. You'll be able to enjoy the sights of the two cities and the surrounding area. When in Selma, make sure to visit the Old Live Oak Cemetery, the Sturdivant Hall Museum, and the National Voting Rights Museum and Institute. In Benton, you can explore the Blount Cultural Park, the Alabama State Capitol, and the Montgomery Zoo. Don't forget to take some time to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature along the way. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage.

Welcome to the road trip stage from Benton to Montgomery! This 39 mile drive will take you less than an hour, and you will be amazed by the scenic views along the way. Keep your eyes peeled for a glimpse of the rolling hills and fields of wildflowers. As you travel, don't forget to take time to explore the small towns and attractions that make this route so special. In Benton, start your journey at the historic Benton Courthouse. Built in 1835, this courthouse is the oldest in the state and a great place to learn about the area's rich history. Afterward, take a stroll through the town's charming streets and visit the Benton Arts Center for some unique local artwork. When you reach Montgomery, you'll find plenty of things to do. Visit the Montgomery Museum and Cultural Center to learn more about the city's past, or take a walk through the Montgomery Historic District to explore the town's architecture. The Montgomery Zoo is also a great place to visit, and it offers a variety of exotic animals and interactive exhibits. No matter what you decide to do, this road trip stage will be a memorable experience. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy the journey!

At the end of the "Alabama US 80 Panoramic Road" lies the charming city of Montgomery, Alabama. This historic city, once the capital of the Confederacy, is today a vibrant and welcoming place full of culture and entertainment. Montgomery is home to some of the most notable landmarks in Alabama. Visitors can experience the rich history of the city with a visit to the Rosa Parks Library and Museum, dedicated to the civil rights icon, or the Dexter Parsonage Museum, the home of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during the Montgomery Bus Boycott. For those looking to explore the outdoors, Montgomery offers plenty of opportunities. Tourists can visit the Montgomery Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the country, or take a stroll through the city’s many parks and gardens. The city is also home to the Alabama Riverwalk, a scenic path along the banks of the Alabama River. Those looking for a cultural experience can take in a show at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival or visit the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. The city also plays host to several festivals each year, from the Jubilee CityFest to the Montgomery Film Festival. Finally, for those traveling by air, the closest international airport is the Montgomery Regional Airport (MGM) located just outside the city. The city of Montgomery is a wonderful destination for a road trip and is sure to leave travelers with plenty of memories. From its historic landmarks to its vibrant culture, there is something for everyone in this charming city.

Before you set off

The US-80 Panoramic Road Trip in Alabama offers an evocative 55-mile (89 kilometers) journey from Selma to Montgomery, steeped in both natural beauty and profound historical significance. This route, which can easily be covered in a day, invites Roadtrippers to traverse the landscapes where critical moments in the American civil rights movement unfolded.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• Selma: Most notably, Selma is home to the iconic Edmund Pettus Bridge, the site of the Bloody Sunday march in 1965, a pivotal event that galvanized national support for the civil rights movement. The city also offers the Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail, as well as the National Voting Rights Museum.
• Benton: A small community where visitors can explore the Benton Historic District and the antebellum Benton Presbyterian Church, which was used as a hospital during the Civil War, adding rich historical layers to your journey.

Best Time to Go:

The most favorable time for this picturesque Road Trip is between the spring and summer months when the climate is mild and the flora is in full bloom. Springtime not only presents an ideal climate but is also a season of renewal, which resonates with the themes of rebirth and progress inherent in the civil rights landmarks you'll encounter.

Potential Risks:

While the route is usually straightforward with good Road conditions, travelers should be prepared for the unexpected, such as traffic disruptions or seasonal weather patterns, which could lead to delays or necessitate extra caution while driving.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

• The journey bridges a crucial chapter in American history, making it more than just a Scenic Drive—it's a pilgrimage of reflection and education.
• Along the way, Roadtrippers can partake in local Southern cuisine, adding a flavorful dimension to the Trip.
• The route is dotted with interpretive signs and exhibits that provide context and stories about the events of the civil rights era.
• Selma's annual Bridge Crossing Jubilee commemorates the civil rights marches and attracts visitors from around the world, making it a particularly special time to visit.

A good choice for:

Embarking on the US-80 Panoramic Road Trip in Alabama is an opportunity to connect with the enduring spirit of freedom and justice that characterizes the state's past. As you journey through the picturesque Alabama countryside and delve into the poignant moments of history, the Trip promises a rich tapestry of learning, nature, and culture. Enjoy the drive and the unique opportunity to walk in the footsteps of heroes.