Atlanta was the major center of activism during the civil rights movement that happened in 1950-1960. This is a significant place that witnessed how African Americans struggle for equality justice. They fought to end racial discrimination and gain equal rights for Black Americans under the law.
To pay respect to the history, get yourself an insightful tour to recall the movement with these five historic sites.
1. Martin Luther King Jr., National Historical Park
Start your tour from 450 Auburn Ave to see the National Historical Park. It is named after the leader of the American civil rights movement, Martin Luther King Jr. (M.L.K), who is also an African American Baptist. This park is a major Atlanta attraction that draws over 500,000 visitors each year.
Within the park, you can find several buildings that are used by King during the movement, including the church where he was baptized by his father as the pastor. Many people take pictures in front of his old home and admire the beauty of the rose garden, which is also King and his wife's favorite resting place in the middle of a water fountain. It is peaceful scenery that you shouldn't miss!
Due to the spread of Covid-19, some sites are closed, but you can still enjoy the view from outside. For more information, please visit
https://www.nps.gov/malu/index.htm
2. Ebenezer Baptist Church
As mentioned before, this is the exact location where Martin Luther King was baptized. It is located in the area of the historical park at 101 Jackson St.
Aside from enjoying the beautiful building, you can enjoy the historic sermons playing inside the church that will make your visit even more memorable. In the basement, you will find a few areas of information and exhibition that flows historical ambiance.
You can find more information on this website: https://www.ebenezeratl.org/
3. National Center for Civil and Human Rights
For more educational stories about the civil rights movement, head to downtown Atlanta at 100 Ivan Allen Jr Blvd. There are a lot of interactive multimedia displays that exhibit not only the civil rights movement but also the human rights. It is a perfect way to get an up-close and personal touch of the historical moment.
One of the exhibits that may feel more emotional is the lunch counter sit-in. It allows you to hear and feel what it was like during the civil rights movement, like a glimpse of what they have fought for and what they have endured. It is surely a place worth exploring and learn from.
To visit the museum during the pandemic, it still opens and follows the health protocol, but don't forget to check the protocol on its social media:
https://www.civilandhumanrights.org/
4. Apex Museum
Another museum to visit is Apex museum, located at 135 Auburn Ave. It is an important part of the African-American historical and cultural center of Sweet Auburn.
The museum presents history from the African American perspective. Their goal is to help all American and international visitors to understand and appreciate the contribution of African Americans in fighting for human rights.
A lot of inspiring figures and artifacts are displayed, as well as the cultural and historical stories. It is a great choice to visit with family and friends, but remember to check their website before visiting: https://www.apexmuseum.org/
5. Paschal's
After a long historical tour, make sure to end your day with the signature soul food specialties at Paschal's. It is located in downtown Atlanta at 180 Northside Dr. One of their legendary menus is Pascal's Fried Chicken with a secret recipe by Pascal's Brothers, James Pascal and Herman J Pascal.
It is not just an ordinary restaurant because this is where the civil rights meetings used to take place. There were notable entertainers, politicians, and business visitors, including Aretha Franklin, Dizzy Gillespie, Andrew Young, Maynard Jackson, Vice President Al Gore, and Dr. Martin Luther King.
You can feel the rich history ambiance from the pictures of Black heroes on the wall while enjoying the food. For more information or reservations, visit their website at https://www.paschalsatlanta.com/