Things to Do in Montgomery in February
February weather, activities, events & insider tips
February Weather in Montgomery
Is February Right for You?
Advantages
- Mild winter temperatures perfect for walking tours - comfortable 10-15°C (50-59°F) during peak afternoon hours without summer's oppressive heat
- Camellia blooms peak at Montgomery Zoo and Japanese Garden - February is the only month to see 200+ varieties in full flower
- Lowest hotel rates of the year - save 40-60% compared to spring peak season, with downtown hotels averaging $65-85 vs $120+ in March
- Minimal crowds at major sites - Rosa Parks Museum and Civil Rights Memorial allow for intimate experiences without tour bus congestion
Considerations
- Frequent light rain requires flexible indoor backup plans - drizzle occurs 60% of days, lasting 2-4 hours typically in late afternoon
- Limited daylight for sightseeing - sunset at 5:45pm means outdoor historical site visits must be completed by 5:00pm for good visibility
- Some outdoor festivals and farmers markets operate reduced schedules or close entirely during winter months
Best Activities in February
Civil Rights Historical Walking Tours
February's cool temperatures make 2-3 hour walking tours comfortable, while low crowds allow for meaningful conversations with guides at the Rosa Parks Bus Stop, Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church, and Edmund Pettus Bridge day trips. The reflective winter atmosphere enhances the emotional impact of these sites.
Alabama State Capitol and Government District Tours
Winter session brings the State House to life with active legislative sessions (February-May), allowing visitors to observe government in action. Cool weather makes the 1.6 km (1 mile) capitol complex walk pleasant, and bare trees provide better views of architectural details.
Montgomery Museum District Indoor Experiences
Perfect rainy day activities with climate-controlled comfort. The Legacy Museum and National Memorial for Peace and Justice offer powerful 3-4 hour experiences. February's contemplative winter mood enhances these thought-provoking exhibits about slavery and lynching history.
Riverfront Park and Alabama River Activities
Cool February weather perfect for 3-5 km (2-3 mile) riverside walks without summer heat exhaustion. Amphitheater hosts occasional winter concerts. Clear winter air provides better river views, and migratory birds stop along the Alabama River corridor.
Old Alabama Town Historic Village
February's mild temperatures ideal for exploring 50+ restored 19th century buildings across this 2.4 km (1.5 mile) outdoor museum. Fewer crowds mean better access to costumed interpreters demonstrating blacksmithing, weaving, and period crafts. Indoor cabin tours provide rain shelter.
Montgomery Zoo Winter Animal Experiences
Cool February weather brings out typically heat-sensitive animals like red pandas and Andean bears. Many animals more active in 10-15°C (50-59°F) temperatures. Indoor exhibits like reptile house provide warm refuges during rain showers. Camellia trail peaks in February bloom.
February Events & Festivals
Black History Month Commemorative Events
Montgomery hosts numerous lectures, special museum exhibitions, and commemorative services throughout February at the Rosa Parks Museum, Legacy Museum, and various churches. Many events are free and provide deeper context to the city's civil rights significance.
Camellia Show at Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts
Annual exhibition showcasing 300+ camellia varieties from local gardens, coinciding with peak blooming season. Includes workshops on camellia cultivation and garden tours of the museum's ARTWORKS outdoor sculpture garden.