Historic Marches & Iconic Bridge in Selma
Selma
Tips on renting in Selma
Getting Around
What to Pack
Must-Try Activities
Smart Spending Tips
Welcome to Selma, Alabama, a city where history and adventure come together for an unforgettable family escape. Begin your journey at the iconic Edmund Pettus Bridge, a cornerstone of the Civil Rights Movement. Walk across this legendary site and take a moment to appreciate its profound impact on our nation’s story. Just steps away, the National Voting Rights Museum features interactive exhibits that captivate visitors of all ages, ensuring a meaningful and engaging experience for the whole family.
Outdoor-loving families will delight in Selma’s array of activities. Paul M. Grist State Park, a short drive from the heart of the city, invites guests to enjoy a pristine 100-acre lake, perfect for fishing, boating, and leisurely picnics. The park’s scenic trails offer a tranquil setting for hiking and biking, surrounded by the beauty of Alabama’s natural landscape. For those eager to explore the water, the Alabama Scenic River Trail opens up a world of paddling adventures along Selma’s picturesque waterways.
Don’t miss the Historic Riverfront Park, a serene 12-acre haven along the Alabama River. With its stunning views, inviting walking paths, and spacious picnic areas, it’s an ideal place for families to unwind and savor the outdoors. Its close proximity to the Edmund Pettus Bridge and local museums makes it easy to blend historical discovery with leisure. With a welcoming population of around 17,000, Selma offers families a unique blend of culture, adventure, and Southern hospitality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to see what Selma has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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To visit the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama, start at the Selma Interpretive Center at the foot of the bridge, where you can gather information and context about the historic site. The bridge itself is a short, easily walkable span that takes less than 5 minutes to cross in each direction, though you may want to spend around 30 minutes to reflect and take photographs. Visit early in the morning to avoid traffic and fully absorb the significance of this landmark, a pivotal site in the civil rights movement.
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For a seamless and scenic boat launch experience near Selma on the Alabama River, head to the Selma City Marina. Located in Selma’s historic downtown district, this marina offers convenient access to the river, along with stunning views of the Edmund Pettus Bridge. While there, you can also take advantage of the marina’s amenities, though be prepared for any applicable launch fees.
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For a memorable paddling experience near Selma, Alabama, embark on the Alabama River trail, starting at Steele’s Landing, where you can rent equipment through the Coosa River Adventures Tote ‘n’ Float Program. This 19-mile day paddle takes you past scenic landmarks like Gardiner Island, the International Paper Plant, and the historic Edmund Pettus Bridge, before concluding at the SandBar and Selma City Marina, where you can enjoy local cuisine and weekend music. There is a $5 usage fee at Steele’s Landing, and you can opt for a shorter trip by putting in and taking out at the SandBar.
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For outdoor enthusiasts near Selma, Alabama, some of the top hiking trails include the Georgia Walker Memorial Walking Trail, a short but scenic route perfect for a leisurely stroll. Just a bit further afield, the Swayback Bridge Trail offers a 4.6-mile single-track biking and hiking trail with a moderate 272-foot gain, ideal for those seeking a more challenging yet rewarding hike. For a historic and picturesque experience, head to Fort Toulouse and Fort Jackson, featuring the William Bartram Loop walking trail that overlooks the confluence of the Coosa and Tallapoosa Rivers.
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For a scenic walk along the Alabama River in Selma, head to Riverfront Park, located on Water Avenue in downtown Selma. This charming park offers a concrete path, a timber bridge, and two overlooks with stunning views of the Alabama River and the iconic Edmund Pettus Bridge. You can also visit the James Perkins, Jr. Songs of Selma park at the corner of Broad and Water Avenue, which provides a beautiful viewpoint of the river.
