For those passionate about civil rights and American history, Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park in Atlanta is a significant pilgrimage site. This 35-acre park honors the life and legacy of Dr. King, offering you a chance to walk in the footsteps of one of America's great civil rights activists. From his birth home to the church where he preached, the park provides you with a comprehensive look at the man who helped shape a nation.
The History Behind Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Site
The park, originally designated as a National Historic Site in 1980, was upgraded to a National Historical Park in 2018 thanks to the efforts of Congressman John Lewis. The following year, the King family home on Sunset Avenue was transferred to the National Park Service by Dr. King's wife, Coretta Scott King. Today, the park is a reminder of the courage and perseverance those who fought for equality demonstrated.
What You Can Find at Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park
The multiple locations of the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Site cover approximately 35 acres and were first included in the National Historic Site listings on October 10, 1980. It wasn't until 2018, thanks to a bill championed by John Lewis, that it was added to America's list of National Parks. And in 2019, Coretta Scott King transferred the family's life home on Sunset Avenue to the National Park Service.
Ebenezer Baptist Church
At the heart of the park sits the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church, where Dr. King was baptized, ordained, and later served as co-pastor with his father. It was here in 1968 that Dr. King's funeral was held. The church underwent a multimillion-dollar restoration in 2001, returning the sanctuary and fellowship hall to their 1960s appearance.
Dr. King's Birth Home
A visit to 501 Auburn Avenue provides a glimpse into Dr. King's humble beginnings. The National Park Service offers guided tours of the birth home, but spaces are limited and cannot be reserved in advance. To secure a spot, arrive early and sign up at the visitor center.
The King Center and Freedom Hall
The King Center, established by Mrs. King after her husband's assassination, is a living memorial dedicated to Dr. King's philosophy of nonviolence. Here, you can pay your respects at the crypt where Dr. King, his wife, and his parents are interred. The nearby Freedom Hall hosts community events and exhibits on civil rights leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Rosa Parks.
International Civil Rights Walk of Fame
This tribute to the "courageous soldiers of justice" features granite and bronze footprints of international civil rights leaders. New honorees are inducted every two years, serving as a reminder that the fight for equality is an ongoing, global effort.
Connecting the Park to Atlanta's Civil Rights Legacy
Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park is just one piece of Atlanta's rich civil rights history. Nearby, the National Center for Civil and Human Rights highlights the global struggle for equality, inspiring visitors to take a stand against injustice. For a deeper understanding of the city's role in the movement, consider exploring other significant sites like the APEX Museum and the Atlanta Student Movement Boulevard.
Seasonal Events and Special Exhibits
Throughout the year, the park hosts a variety of events and temporary exhibits that provide fresh perspectives on Dr. King's life and the civil rights movement. From the annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day commemorative service at Ebenezer Baptist Church (held on the third Monday of January) to special lectures and performances, there's always something new to experience. Check the park's website for a current schedule.
Suggested Itineraries
Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park has plenty to offer:
Half-Day Visit
- Sign up for a birth home tour
- Explore the exhibits at the visitor center
- Take a self-guided tour of Ebenezer Baptist Church
- Visit the King Center and pay respects at the crypt
Full-Day Visit
- All of the above, plus:
- Walk the International Civil Rights Walk of Fame
- Attend a ranger-led program or tour
- Visit the nearby National Center for Civil and Human Rights
- Take a stroll through Atlanta's oldest city park, Grant Park, home to Zoo Atlanta
No matter how much time you have, a visit to Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park is a must if you're looking to gain a deeper understanding of the Civil Rights Movement and Dr. King's enduring legacy.
Dive Deeper Into the Civil Rights Movement in Atlanta's National Center for Civil and Human Rights
Beyond the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Site, Atlanta is home to a treasure trove of options for history buffs. Atlanta's National Center for Civil and Human Rights is enjoyed by local and international visitors alike throughout the year. It highlights uplifting journeys of progress and inspires visitors to take the shared responsibility of equal human rights personally.
With so many great sites to visit, the expense of your Atlanta vacation can add up quickly. If you want to see the can't-miss sites in Atlanta, CityPASS® tickets can get you access to five amazing Atlanta attractions at a fraction of the cost. With Atlanta CityPASS® tickets, you can save up to during your visit to Atlanta and see all the unique sites the city has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to go to Martin Luther King Jr National Historical Park?
Admission to the park is free, though there may be fees for certain events or programs.
What is there to do at Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park?
You can tour Dr. King's birth home, visit Ebenezer Baptist Church, pay respects at the King Center, and explore exhibits on the civil rights movement.
Where is Martin Luther King's grave site?
Dr. King is interred in a crypt at the King Center, alongside his wife, Coretta Scott King.
Why is Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park important?
The park preserves and interprets the places where Dr. King was born, lived, worked, and worshipped, offering insight into his life and the civil rights movement.
Lodging in Atlanta
To get the most out of your stay in Atlanta, we recommend finding lodging near Atlanta's top attractions. Use this map to find the right lodging for you:
Booking.comHeader Image Credit: Todd Van Hoosear