PLAN YOUR VISIT

Ticketing 

Admission tickets are available for purchase both online and in person. Tours through our historic galleries are self-guided and typically take approximately 90 minutes. 

Free parking is available behind the building with access from 15th Street North. 

All public spaces are sanitized and deep cleaned daily. Guests are welcome to follow personal comfort levels regarding social distancing and face mask use. 

The Passport Cancellation Station is located in the Gift Store. 

Children and Student Visitors 

Children and students visiting the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute must be accompanied by an adult at all times while in the museum. 

Bag Policy 

As an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute has adopted the following bag policy to help protect our artifacts, exhibits, and visitors. 

All bags are subject to inspection and tagging by Security. 

  • All bags will be checked by Security. 
  • Lockers are available to rent during your visit. BCRI Administration and Security assume no responsibility for stored bags. 
  • Only clear bags smaller than 9½ inches x 8½ inches may be carried into the galleries. Any item exceeding this size must be stored in a locker. 
  • Medical bags and diaper/baby bags containing essentials are permitted only after inspection and clearance by Security. Cleared bags will be labeled prior to entry. 
  • BCRI reserves the right to deny admission for failure to comply with this policy. 

Accessibility 

The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute is fully accessible to all visitors. 

Accessible parking spaces are available in the rear parking lot. Ramps provide access throughout the facility. 

A limited number of wheelchairs are available for visitor use at the Ticket Booth. Please speak with Ticket Booth staff for assistance. 

We also offer a Sensory Room for guests who may need a quiet, calming space during their visit. This room is designed to provide a more comfortable experience for visitors with sensory sensitivities or those needing a break from gallery stimulation. Please ask the Ticket Booth staff for assistance and access. 

If you have questions about accessibility accommodations before your visit, please contact us in advance and we will be happy to assist. 

Restrooms 

Restrooms are located on the second floor. 

Photography 

Still and video photography for noncommercial personal use is permitted in museum galleries and exhibitions unless otherwise posted. 

Flash photography is prohibited. 

Tripods, monopods, and selfie sticks are not permitted inside the museum. 

Working members of the media must fill out a film request form. 

Admission Fees

Adults: $15
Seniors (65+): $13
Military & Students: $13
Children Below (below grade 4): Free
BCRI Members: Free

For groups of 25 or more, visit: https://www.bcri.org/groups/

Tour and Gift Store Hours

Tuesday – Saturday (10:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
Sunday & Monday (Closed)

NOTE: Last admission is at 4:00 PM
The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute will reopen on May 27, 2026 at noon.

This brief delayed opening will allow staff and vendors time to complete final preparations for safe public access to the building. Thank you again for your patience, support, and understanding throughout this process. We look forward to welcoming visitors back today.