Things to Do in Montgomery in December

December Weather in Montgomery

High Temp

Low Temp

Rainfall

% Humidity

Is December Right for You?

Advantages

Christmas markets throughout downtown from December 1-23 create magical atmosphere with hot chocolate vendors and local crafts for ฿50-200 per item
Cool 21°C (70°F) highs perfect for walking tours of historic districts without summer's oppressive heat and humidity
Off-season hotel rates drop 30-40% compared to spring and fall peak seasons, with downtown rooms from ฿1,200-2,500 nightly
Indoor attractions like museums and cultural centers extend hours for holiday programming, perfect for the 10 rainy days expected

Considerations

Frequent light rain and drizzle on 10+ days requires constant umbrella carrying and limits outdoor photography opportunities
Daylight hours shortened to 9.5 hours means outdoor activities must be planned for 9am-5:30pm window
Some riverfront attractions and outdoor markets close early or operate reduced schedules due to weather uncertainty

Best Activities in December

Historic Downtown Walking Tours

December's cool 21°C (70°F) temperatures make 2-3 hour walking tours comfortable without summer heat exhaustion. Rain breaks provide natural photo opportunities of wet brick architecture. Christmas decorations enhance the historic district's Victorian-era charm.

Booking Tip: Book morning tours (9am-12pm) to avoid afternoon rain likelihood. Self-guided options ฿300-500, guided tours ฿800-1,500. Indoor portions at museums provide shelter during drizzle periods. See current tour options in booking section below.

Civil Rights Memorial and Museum Complex

Indoor museum experiences perfect for December's 10 rainy days. Climate-controlled environment ideal when outdoor sightseeing is limited by weather. December's reflective season adds poignancy to historical exhibits.

Booking Tip: Allow 3-4 hours for full experience. Advance booking recommended for December holiday visitors. Entry typically ฿400-600 for adults. Covered walkways connect most buildings. Current museum tour options available in booking widget.

Alabama River Paddle Tours

Cool December air at 21°C (70°F) prevents overheating during 2-3 hour paddle excursions. Winter wildlife viewing as migratory birds pass through Alabama River corridor. Light rain creates moody river atmosphere preferred by photographers.

Booking Tip: Book morning departures (8am-11am) before afternoon rain probability increases. Waterproof gear provided by operators. Tours ฾1,800-3,200 including equipment. Weather-dependent cancellation policies standard. Check current river tour availability below.

Dexter Avenue Historic District Tours

December's low tourist crowds mean unobstructed photography of historic churches and government buildings. Cool weather allows comfortable 1.5-2 hour walking pace. Holiday decorations complement period architecture beautifully.

Booking Tip: Combine with indoor stops at historic churches for rain shelter. Self-guided options ฿200-400, audio guides ฿500-800. Book weekday tours for smaller groups. See current guided tour options in booking section.

Montgomery Museum District

Multiple indoor venues perfect for December's unpredictable weather. Climate-controlled galleries ideal when 70% humidity makes outdoor exploration uncomfortable. Holiday exhibitions often premiere in December.

Booking Tip: Purchase museum district passes for ฿800-1,200 covering 3-4 venues. Allow full day with lunch breaks between locations. Covered parking available at most sites. Current museum tour packages available through booking widget below.

Wynton M. Blount Cultural Park Activities

Indoor Shakespeare theater and outdoor sculpture gardens provide rain-or-shine options. Cool 21°C (70°F) weather comfortable for 1-2 hour garden walks between indoor shows. December holiday performances often available.

Booking Tip: Check theater schedules for December holiday productions. Garden access typically ฿300-500, theater tickets ฿1,000-2,500. Covered walkways connect major buildings. Book cultural events through venues or see touring options below.

December Events & Festivals

December 1-23

Montgomery Christmas Market

Downtown holiday market featuring Alabama artisans, hot chocolate vendors, and live music. Local crafts range ฿50-500, food vendors offer seasonal specialties. Covered pavilions provide rain protection.

December 31

First Night Montgomery

New Year's Eve celebration with multiple indoor and outdoor venues throughout downtown. Family-friendly activities start at 6pm, adult programming continues past midnight. Rain contingency plans include indoor concerts.

Throughout December

Alabama Shakespeare Festival Holiday Productions

Special December performances often include holiday classics and seasonal programming. Indoor theater perfect for rainy December evenings. Advanced booking essential for December shows.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Compact umbrella with wind resistance - December drizzle is frequent but light, lasting 30-45 minutes typically

Waterproof walking shoes with grip - wet brick sidewalks in historic district become slippery

Layered clothing for 7°C-21°C (45°F-70°F) range - mornings cold, afternoons mild, evenings cool again

Light rain jacket or windbreaker - 70% humidity makes heavy coats uncomfortable during active sightseeing

Waterproof phone case or bag - frequent drizzle threatens electronics during outdoor photography

Warm hat and light gloves for 7°C (45°F) early mornings - especially for sunrise river activities

Quick-dry pants or jeans - sitting on wet benches or getting caught in drizzle common

Small daypack with rain cover - essential for carrying layers as weather changes throughout day

Portable phone charger - shorter daylight hours mean more indoor time using navigation and cameras

Cash in small bills - many Christmas market vendors and smaller attractions prefer cash transactions

Insider Knowledge

Downtown parking meters free on Sundays and after 6pm weekdays - time museum visits accordingly to save ฿200-400 daily parking fees

Most indoor attractions extend hours during December holiday season but outdoor sites close earlier due to 4:30pm sunset - plan accordingly

Local restaurants offer December prix fixe menus at 20-30% discount to attract holiday visitors - ask about seasonal specials not advertised online

Montgomery Regional Airport offers free WiFi and charging stations perfect for weather-delay contingency planning during December travel season