Things To Do
in Selma
Selma is a small city located in Dallas County, Alabama, United States. It is known for its significant role in the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s, particularly the famous Selma to Montgomery marches. The city is home to historical sites such as the Edmund Pettus Bridge, where the marches took place.
Selma also has a rich cultural heritage and hosts events and festivals that celebrate its history and community.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Visit the National Voting Rights Museum to learn about the Civil Rights Movement. Engage with the exhibits that showcase the struggles for voting rights.
Take a walking tour of the Edmund Pettus Bridge and its surrounding historical sites. Capture some photos and reflect on the significance of these locations.
Dine at a local restaurant that serves Southern cuisine. Enjoy the warm atmosphere and perhaps catch some live music.
Start your day with a peaceful walk at the Selma Riverfront Park. Enjoy the scenic views and the fresh morning air.
Pack a picnic and spend some time relaxing by the Alabama River. The serene environment is perfect for unwinding.
Watch the sunset by the river with friends or family. It’s a beautiful way to end your day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical significance, particularly in the Civil Rights Movement.
- Strong sense of community and cultural heritage.
- Affordable cost of living compared to many other U.S. cities.
- Access to natural beauty and outdoor recreational activities, such as nearby parks and rivers.
- Growing tourism industry due to historical sites and events.
- Limited job opportunities, especially in specialized fields.
- Higher poverty rates and economic challenges compared to national averages.
- Infrastructure and public services may not be as developed as in larger cities.
- Public education system faces challenges, including funding and performance issues.
- Potential for social issues, including crime rates that may be a concern for some residents.
Best Activities in Selma
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the historic trail commemorating the 1965 voting rights march from Selma to Montgomery.
Discover the ruins of Alabama's first state capital and enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking in the park.
Enjoy camping, fishing, and hiking amid the natural beauty of the park's lakes and woodlands.
Tours
Uncover the best of Selma with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Selma
Visit one of these nice places.
The iconic bridge provides a historical and picturesque setting for photos.
This historic site offers beautiful natural scenery and preserved ruins for photography.
This stunning antebellum mansion and its well-maintained gardens offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Food in Selma
Selma Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try dish in Selma, fried catfish is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, often served with hushpuppies and coleslaw. Head to Big Joes to savor this Southern classic.
Must-Try!
Indulge in a slice of pecan pie, a popular dessert that perfectly captures the essence of Southern sweetness. Stop by Lannie's Bar-B-Q Spot for a delectable serving.
Experience the harmonious blend of fresh shrimp and creamy grits, a staple of Southern cuisine. Miss Dots is renowned for its delectable take on this dish.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Selma better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the Selma Farmers Market to discover an assortment of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local delights. It's a fantastic place to immerse yourself in the community's culinary offerings.
Take a stroll through downtown Selma and relish the varied delights offered by food trucks, serving up everything from barbecue to international flavors, providing a true taste of the city's food scene.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Selma, it's important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when conversing or interacting in public spaces.
It is customary to greet people with a smile and a polite greeting in Selma. Using 'please' and 'thank you' is also greatly appreciated in interactions.
It is important to show respect for local traditions and customs in Selma, including participating in traditional events and being mindful of cultural sensitivities.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Selma with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Selma
Ensure a smooth experience
In Selma, United States, tipping is a common practice in the service industry. It is customary to tip restaurant servers, bartenders, taxi drivers, and hotel staff. The standard tip is usually 15-20% of the total bill, although this may vary depending on the level of service provided.
Payment in Selma, United States, is commonly made using credit or debit cards, as well as cash. Contactless payment methods are also widely accepted. When dining at restaurants or using other services, it is important to check whether tips can be added to the card payment or if they should be given in cash.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Selma.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Selma, with mild temperatures and beautiful blooming flowers. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities and events such as the annual Selma Bridge Crossing Jubilee.
Summer is hot in Selma, with temperatures often reaching the high 90s or even 100s. However, this is also the time when many festivals and events take place, offering a lively and vibrant atmosphere.
Fall brings pleasant temperatures and stunning foliage as the leaves change colors. It's a great time for outdoor adventures and exploring the natural beauty of the area.
Winter in Selma is mild, with occasional cold snaps. While outdoor activities may be limited, visitors can still enjoy the city's historical attractions and cultural events.
Selma at Night
Hiking in Selma
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail along the river, offering beautiful views and a peaceful hiking experience through nature.
A moderately challenging trail featuring diverse wildlife and lush greenery, perfect for a day hike.
Set in a local park, these trails provide a variety of routes for hikers of all skill levels, surrounded by beautiful oak trees.
This trail follows the creek with gentle elevation changes and is great for both hiking and nature walks.
Offering a more rugged experience, this trail features stunning views and is ideal for adventurous hikers looking for a challenge.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Selma through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Selma by plane.
Located approximately 175 miles east of Selma, this is the closest major international airport offering a variety of domestic and international flights.
Situated about 90 miles to the southeast of Selma, this airport provides regional and some international destinations.
Approximately 200 miles north of Selma, this airport serves as a significant hub for both domestic and international travel.
Around 220 miles northeast of Selma, this is one of the world's busiest airports, offering extensive international connections.
Located about 120 miles southwest of Selma, this airport has flights to several domestic destinations and some international options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A majority demographic group in Selma, representing historical significance and cultural heritage.
A significant demographic group that contributes to the diverse cultural landscape of Selma.
An emerging demographic group reflecting the growing diversity in Selma.
A smaller demographic group that adds to the multicultural fabric of Selma.
Includes various smaller ethnic groups contributing to the overall diversity in Selma.
The Soul of Selma
Discover the essence of Selma through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is a widely popular sport in Selma, celebrated for its community events and school competitions.
Basketball has a significant following in Selma, with local schools and recreational leagues playing an integral role in the community.
Baseball is a cherished pastime in Selma, often enjoyed during the summer months with youth leagues and adult tournaments.
Soccer is growing in popularity, with many youth programs and leagues fostering interest among younger generations.
Track and field events are popular at local schools and are key components of the community's athletic programs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Selma.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Southern cuisine may lean heavily on animal products, many restaurants in Selma offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives, catering to diverse dietary preferences. Miss Dots, in particular, provides enticing plant-based options.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can find accommodating menus at various establishments in Selma, such as Big Joes, which offers gluten-free versions of Southern favorites.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Selma with these cultural adventures.
