Visit the National Center for Civil and Human Rights for an eye-opening experience tracing the history of civil rights across the United States and the rest of the world. Explore the permanent collections and temporary exhibits to piece together intriguing aspects and stories from human rights movements. In this inspiring museum teach your children how to empathize with the struggles of subjugated minorities and fight for the rights of those without a voice.
As you move through the exhibits, consider how the American Civil Rights Movement of the 20th century compares with the global struggle for rights across the world today.
Inspect the various documents and belongings of Martin Luther King Jr., who was one of the leading voices of the civil rights movement for African Americans. Learn about his youth, his work and his untimely death by an assassin in 1968.
The museum has innovative ways of making visitors think and empathize with suppressed peoples, including the counter where you can experience non-violent protest via a sit-in. Study the interactive maps showing where human rights around the world are restricted today.
From the lawn outside, admire the modern architecture of the museum, with its jagged edges and bronze squares. The interior is spacious and modern, with great white canvases adorned with colorful paraphernalia and collections.
The center opens daily from late morning until late afternoon. There is a fee to enter with free admission for children under age 6.
The National Center for Civil and Human Rights is in the heart of Downtown Atlanta. Take the Gold or Red line to the Civic Center metro station and walk southwest for around 15 minutes to get to the site.
While you’re in this part of the city, make sure to see neighboring landmarks such as Centennial Olympic Park, the Georgia Aquarium and the World of Coca-Cola.