Settling in at your new duty station isn’t always easy. It takes a little while for your military family to get to know the area, feel like you belong, and find your new community. There are a lot of things you can do to try to combat the feelings of displacement, but there’s only one way to get to know the area: get out and explore it for yourself!
When venturing out to explore the Maxwell AFB area, you’ll find a little something for everyone in the family. From the history buff and the outdoor adventurer to the youngest kids in your home, you’ll all find something to love nearby.
Here are a few ideas to start your outings near Maxwell AFB. For the latest hours and admission fees, always check with each location's website.
1. Rosa Parks Library and Museum
Step back into the 1950s and explore the life of civil rights icon Rosa Parks. You’ll learn about the people of the era and the political and social climates of just 70 years ago.- Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, and Saturday, 9:00 am to 3:00 pm.
2. Civil Rights Memorial Center
Just around the corner from the Dexter Parsonage, the home of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the Civil Rights Memorial is a great place to reflect on the magnitude of the Civil Rights Movement.
The names of the martyrs are engraved into a black granite table where water flows over them. Above them is Martin Luther King Jr.’s well-known paraphrase of Amos 5:24.
3. Dexter Parsonage
Visit the home of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his family. Tours Tuesday through Saturday, hourly from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Photo from iStock.com/Rolf Karlsson
4. Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church
The church where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. served as pastor from 1954 - 1960. With a motto of "Where love lives!", tours of the church are by appointment only. Visit the website for virtual tours. The church offers Sunday School and Sunday services.
5. Old Alabama Town
Spend the day following the map through this historic village and get an idea of what life was like in the 1800s.
- Museum hours: Thursday - Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Closed on Sundays
- Tickets sold at Lucas Tavern, 310 North Hull Street
- Group tour rates are available
6. Montgomery Zoo
Wander through the exhibits, then head to the skylift for an unforgettable view of zoo life.
- Open daily, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.
- Military rate available
7. Alabama National Fair
Fried food, games, crazy rides, music, and entertainment. Mark your calendar for the Alabama National Fair. Runs October 4- 14.
Photo Credit: gocountryevents.com
8. Pratt Park
Want a fun outing to entertain the kids without making a big plan or fighting traffic? Pratt Park is the perfect "come as you are" excursion for the whole family. Join other families beating the heat at the community pool and splash pad.
- The splash pad is open from May 1 through September 30
9. Harriott II Riverboat
Cruise the Alabama River and enjoy live entertainment. Bring the kids and make it a fun family night, or leave the littles with a sitter and enjoy a date night on the water.
10. Riverfront Park
Join the community down at Riverfront Park. Fly a kite, go for a run, and let the kids go wild at the splash pad. Or, head down for one of the fun events held at the amphitheater.
11. Wilderness Park
Stroll through Wilderness Park in Prattville, where 60-foot tall bamboo creates the most beautiful backdrop for a little outdoor adventure. Let the kids lead the way as they wander through nature, seeing what they can find.
Photo Credit: prattvilleal.gov
12. Autauga Creek Canoe Trail
Explore Prattville’s Autauga Creek by canoe or kayak and paddle down the four miles of flowing trail. Or, if you prefer a relaxing float, toss a tube into the lazy creek and drift down to the wooden bridge. Wrap up this fun outing with a picnic under a shady tree.
13. Talladega National Forest
Head northeast for a couple of hours, and you’ll reach the Talladega National Forest. Hiking trails, swimming, and camping will keep you busy. Boaters can launch at Lake Chinnabee.
There's so much to do near Maxwell AFB, but we know how nice it is to treat yourself to a little weekend getaway. Great news! You're within an easy drive of Pensacola, Atlanta, and Birmingham for even more adventures.
Looking for a place to live near Maxwell AFB? Start your search on MilitaryByOwner to find homes for sale or houses for rent for your military family.
