Most folks hear “winter” and think of hibernating, but not in Montgomery. This is the season when the capital city truly shines, offering a quieter pace, rich indoor discoveries, and a special kind of charm you just don’t get when the summer sun is blazing.
The mild Southern winter is your perfect excuse to explore without the crowds and see the city in a whole new light.
Ready to swap your heavy coat for a light jacket and discover what makes this city magical? We’ve dug deep to find the most unique, cozy, and downright fun spots you need to hit.
This is your exclusive guide to the best places to visit in Montgomery this winter, packed with history, beauty, and local flavor. Let’s dive in!
1. Stroll Through a Twinkling Winter Wonderland at Garden of Lights
Trade the ordinary for the extraordinary at the Garden of Lights at Brookside Gardens. Imagine a crisp winter evening spent wandering a half-mile trail transformed into a glowing fantasyland.
This isn’t just a few strings of bulbs—it’s a full-on spectacle of light and creativity. You’ll see flowers, friendly insects, and whimsical creatures all crafted from thousands of lights, creating a scene straight out of a storybook.
The best part? This magical walk is a go, rain or shine. Just bundle up in your coziest sweater and comfy shoes, because you’re in for about an hour of pure, sparkling joy.
Warm up afterwards with a hot drink from the concessions, and don’t forget to pop into the Gift Shop for a unique souvenir. For a family-friendly, affordable, and utterly enchanting winter experience in Montgomery, this glowing garden is a total must-see.
2. Step Back in Time on the Historic Holiday House Tour
Ever wondered what secrets are hidden behind the beautiful historic doors in Christiansburg? The Historic Holiday House Tour gives you a golden ticket to find out.
This festive event invites you inside eight stunning historic properties, from grand public buildings to lovingly preserved private residences. It’s a rare chance to admire period architecture, unique holiday décor, and hear the stories that these walls could tell.
Your adventure starts at the Montgomery Museum of Art & History, where you can grab your ticket and enjoy some light refreshments.
You can choose to walk the charming route or drive between stops, making it a relaxed and flexible way to spend an afternoon.
At just over $20 a ticket, it’s a wonderfully elegant and affordable way to dive into local history and holiday spirit. This tour is a standout historic thing to do in Montgomery during winter.
3. Discover the Heart of the City at “Lasting Impact”
Want to understand what truly makes Montgomery tick? Head to the Figh-Pickett House to see the “Lasting Impact” exhibit. This isn’t your typical history lesson. It’s a vibrant celebration of the local businesses that have shaped the city’s soul for over a century.
You’ll meet the stories of institutions like Sabel Steel, which has been a family-run cornerstone since 1856, and Rosemont Gardens, a stunning florist founded in 1890.
The exhibit runs through January 5th, making it a perfect indoor winter destination in Montgomery. It’s open Monday through Thursday, so it’s a great plan for a weekday adventure.
Seeing how these companies adapted, survived, and thrived gives you a real sense of the city’s resilient and innovative spirit. It’s a powerful reminder that Montgomery’s story is still being written by its people.
4. Experience “Montgomery During the 19th Century”
Ready to time travel? From February through May, the Montgomery County Historical Society presents “Montgomery During the 19th Century” at the Figh-Pickett House.
This exhibit pulls you into the city’s formative years, exploring how it grew from a Muscogee (Creek) trading hub into the bustling state capital. It’s a complex, fascinating story of crossroads, culture, and change.
You can visit on weekdays, making it a fantastic bad-weather plan or a deep-dive for history buffs. The exhibit actively encourages you to then go out and explore the city’s historic sites with fresh eyes.
By connecting the dots between the past and the present, you’ll gain a much deeper appreciation for every street you walk down. It’s an essential stop for anyone wanting to connect with the real Montgomery.
5. Find Unique Treasures on Small Business Saturday
Forget the big-box store chaos. For a truly local shopping experience, mark your calendar for Small Business Saturday at the Montgomery Museum.
The museum’s gift shop transforms into a treasure trove of handmade goods, local art, unique books, and beautiful home decor. Every purchase directly supports the artists and artisans right here in the community.
And hey, it’s not just about shopping! Bring the kids for a classic photo with a special guest—Santa himself is there to spread cheer. It’s a festive, fun, and meaningful way to kick off the holiday season.
You’ll find gifts you won’t see anywhere else and feel great knowing your money stays local. This is how you shop like a true Montgomerian.
6. Get Creative at a Jewelry Making Workshop
Winter is the perfect time to learn something new and make a one-of-a-kind gift. The Montgomery Museum hosts a Jewelry Wine & Design workshop where you can do just that.
Guided by an expert, you’ll get to craft your own beautiful necklace and pair of earrings to take home. All the materials are provided, so you can just show up and let your creativity flow.
It’s a social, hands-on way to spend an afternoon or evening, perfect for a girls’ day out or a unique date idea. You’ll leave not only with a stunning piece of jewelry but also with the pride of having made it yourself.
Workshops like this are the hidden gems that make for the most memorable winter activities in Montgomery.
7. Explore Artistic Perspectives at a Member Art Show
See Montgomery through the eyes of its own artists. From November through January, the Montgomery Museum collaborates with English Meadows Senior Living to present a special Member Art Show.
This rotating exhibit features more than twenty pieces from local community artists, showcasing a stunning range of styles from oil paintings to photography and sculpture.
The opening reception in November is a lovely chance to mingle and meet the creators. Visiting this free exhibit is a peaceful, inspiring way to spend a winter afternoon.
It’s a beautiful reminder of the vibrant creative talent that thrives right here in the city, offering a fresh and colorful perspective during the quieter months.
8. Enjoy a Night of Games and Community
Who says museums are just for looking? On select nights, the Montgomery Museum hosts a super fun Game Night featuring their own custom board game, Trekking Montgomery County.
It’s a chance to test your local knowledge, play some history trivia, and enjoy a relaxed evening out with friends or family.
These events are free and open to the public, highlighting the museum’s role as a real community hub. It’s a fantastic, low-key way to connect with locals and experience the city’s friendly vibe. An evening of laughs and learning is a surefire way to warm up a cool winter night.
9. Capture the Perfect Winter Photo
The soft winter light in Montgomery is a photographer’s dream. Whether you’re a pro or just use your smartphone, the city is full of gorgeous backdrops. The historic buildings downtown, the serene Riverwalk, and the decorative storefronts all look incredible with a wintery glow.
Why not join a workshop to up your skills? The museum occasionally offers photography classes led by professionals, teaching you how to master light and composition.
Armed with new tips, you can spend a day capturing the unique beauty of Montgomery in winter. You’ll go home with amazing photos and memories that are literally picture-perfect.
10. Savor the Local Flavor on a Comfort Food Crawl
Winter weather calls for hearty, delicious food, and Montgomery’s dining scene delivers in a big way. The city is packed with classic Southern diners, innovative cafes, and restaurants that cater to every taste.
You can find down-home cooking perfect for meat lovers and an ever-growing selection of fantastic vegan and plant-based options.
Make an adventure of it by planning your own comfort food crawl. Try the famous fried chicken at one spot, then head to a trendy cafe for a vegan “meatloaf” that will blow your mind.
Exploring through your taste buds is one of the very best things to do in Montgomery in winter. Don’t be shy—ask locals for their favorite hole-in-the-wall; that’s where you’ll find the real magic.
11. Take a Peaceful Walk Along the Alabama River
When you need a breath of fresh air, the Alabama Riverfront is your sanctuary. The Riverwalk is beautiful year-round, but in winter it’s especially peaceful.
Take a leisurely stroll, watch the water flow, and see the city skyline from a new angle. The Harriott II riverboat is often docked, adding to the scenic view.
It’s a simple, free, and wonderfully calming activity. You can walk for miles, find a bench to sit and reflect, or just enjoy the quiet beauty of nature in the heart of the city.
This connection to the river is a key part of Montgomery’s identity and a perfect way to clear your head.
12. Unwind with a Morning of Tai Chi
Start your winter day centered and calm. The Montgomery Museum offers Tai Chi Gung classes right in its lobby, led by a local artist and practitioner.
This gentle practice uses slow, flowing movements to promote balance, flexibility, and stress reduction—exactly what you need during a busy season.
For just a few dollars, you can join a class, meet some friendly locals, and give yourself the gift of mindfulness. It’s an unexpected and wonderfully healthy way to experience the city’s cultural offerings. You’ll leave feeling relaxed, refreshed, and ready to take on the rest of your adventures.
13. Delve into a Spooky Local Legend
Montgomery’s history has its mysterious side, and winter nights are perfect for a good story.
The museum hosts events like “The Tales and Truth of the Sisters in Black,” which digs into the fascinating, and allegedly haunted, history surrounding a local legend. It’s a mix of true crime, local folklore, and historical detective work.
These special talks require pre-registration, so you’ll want to plan ahead. They offer a thrilling, intellectual alternative to typical nightlife. Getting chills from a real local story is a unique way to connect with the city’s past and have a memorable night out.
14. Find Your New Favorite Read at a Local Bookshop
There’s nothing cozier than curling up with a great book on a chilly day. Support a local independent bookstore and find your next favorite read.
Browse shelves curated with care, discover authors from Alabama and the South, and maybe even join a winter book club.
It’s a quiet, simple pleasure that lets you engage with the city’s literary culture. Chatting with a bookseller for a recommendation often leads you to a gem you’d never find online. Taking home a book from a Montgomery shop is like taking home a piece of the city’s story.
Conclusion
See? Winter in Montgomery isn’t a downtime; it’s prime time. It’s the season for uncovering layered history, enjoying cultural gems without the crowds, and connecting with the warm community that makes this city special.
From glittering light shows to thought-provoking exhibits and cozy culinary finds, there’s a perfect adventure here for everyone.
So, what are you waiting for? Pick two or three spots from this list that spark your curiosity, grab a friend or your family, and go see for yourself why Montgomery is a top-tier winter destination.
Start planning your trip today, and get ready to make some unforgettable memories. Don’t just hear about it—experience it.