Montgomery, Alabama, holds a rich history and captivating charm. It gained fame as the location of the renowned Montgomery Bus boycott of 1955-56 and served as the Confederate capital during the Civil War. Today, the city boasts a plethora of unique attractions, such as the Riverwalk Stadium, offering a fascinating 3D light show, interactive exhibits, and hosting concerts and cultural events.
Downtown Montgomery’s historic district invites visitors to explore charming shops and restaurants. Numerous museums delve into different facets of the city’s history, including civil rights, military service, the Alabama State Capitol building, Montgomery Zoo, and Blount Cultural Park, among others.
Beyond the famous spots, Montgomery harbors lesser-known but thriving neighborhoods. These hidden gems provide an excellent quality of life, affordable housing, and diverse communities. Here are five underrated neighborhoods in Montgomery that deserve attention:
Cloverdale
This old district sits close to Alabama State University and Huntingdon College campuses. It features a delightful blend of bungalows, cottages, and Victorian houses from the early 1900s.
Cloverdale is famous for its artistic atmosphere, boasting numerous galleries, theaters, and cafes lining Fairview Avenue. The neighborhood is also home to various festivals and events all year round, including the Cloverdale-Idlewild Spring Concert Series and the Cloverdale Art Walk.
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Old Cloverdale
Old Cloverdale is distinct from Cloverdale, but they have similar names and historical backgrounds. Positioned south of Cloverdale and east of downtown, Old Cloverdale stands as one of Montgomery’s oldest and most esteemed neighborhoods. Here, numerous historic mansions and estates exhibit various architectural styles.
Notably, Old Cloverdale houses the Fitzgerald Museum, a tribute to the renowned authors F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald, who resided there during the 1930s. Additionally, along Zelda Road, the area boasts a vibrant commercial district with a diverse array of restaurants, shops, and services.
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Garden District
This area lies to the north of downtown and west of Cloverdale. It earned its name due to the beautiful gardens and well-maintained landscapes that embellish numerous houses. The Garden District offers diverse housing choices, including charming cottages, roomy ranch-style homes, and contemporary condos.
Families find it an ideal place to reside as there are several parks, schools, and churches conveniently situated within walking distance. The neighborhood boasts a strong sense of community fostered by various neighborhood associations and clubs that host social gatherings and organize engaging activities.
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Hillwood
Hillwood is a neighborhood situated to the east of downtown and south of Interstate 85 in Montgomery. It’s one of the newer neighborhoods in the area, characterized by homes mainly built during the 1970s and 1980s. The atmosphere in Hillwood is suburban, featuring broad streets, sidewalks, and cul-de-sacs.
The neighborhood provides affordable housing options, making it an attractive choice for families and young professionals seeking to be near the city center while enjoying a peaceful and secure environment. Hillwood offers various amenities right within its boundaries, including a golf course, a country club, a shopping center, and a library.
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Capitol Heights
Capitol Heights, an old and charming neighborhood, lies to the northeast of downtown and north of Interstate 85 in Montgomery. Its history dates back to the early 1900s, evident from the many homes that still stand. The neighborhood boasts a delightful ambiance with its brick sidewalks, street lamps, and abundant mature trees.
A diverse community resides in Capitol Heights, bringing together people from various backgrounds and cultures. The residents actively participate in civic affairs, fostering a strong sense of community and working diligently to preserve the area’s heritage while enhancing its overall quality of life.
Within the neighborhood’s vicinity, you can find a range of attractions to enjoy. Notable sites include the Alabama State Fairgrounds, the Cramton Bowl Stadium, and the Oak Park Zoo.
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Final Words
Here are a few lesser-known neighborhoods in Montgomery that have plenty to offer both residents and visitors. If you’re considering living or exploring Montgomery, make sure to explore these neighborhoods to uncover their hidden gems. I hope this article introduces you to some fresh perspectives on Montgomery, ones you might not have encountered previously.
