Auburn Avenue African American Half Day Human Rights/Civil Rights Tour

Explore Atlanta’s Civil Rights Heritage for $69 in Just 5 Hours

The Auburn Avenue African American Half Day Human Rights/Civil Rights Tour offers a compelling glimpse into Atlanta’s vital role in the Civil Rights Movement, all within a 5-hour experience priced at $69 per person. This tour is ideal for those eager to understand Black history, culture, and influential figures such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Booker T. Washington. It departs from 210 Peachtree St at 2:00 pm and is limited to 13 travelers, ensuring an intimate setting where the guide can share detailed stories and answer questions.

This tour’s strength lies in its focused visits to key landmarks and its comfortable transportation, making it accessible and engaging. While reviews acknowledge some technical issues like vehicle problems, most highlight knowledgeable guides and meaningful sites that deepen understanding of Atlanta’s Black community. It’s perfect for visitors seeking an educational but relaxed afternoon exploring civil rights history in Atlanta.

Key Points

• Affordable 5-hour tour exploring Atlanta’s African-American and civil rights history
• Limited to 13 participants for a personalized experience
• Visits include MLK Jr. National Historic Site, Herndon Home, and Booker T. Washington High School
• Stops at Ponce City Market and Krog Street Market for local food, shopping, and the Atlanta BeltLine
• Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle
• The tour has mixed reviews, with high praise for knowledgeable guides and some technical issues reported

The Tour Starts at a Prime Downtown Location

The tour departs from 210 Peachtree Street at 2:00 pm daily. It’s easily accessible near public transportation, making it convenient for most travelers. The pickup offer ensures a smooth start, although note that airport pickups are not included. The small group size of 13 travelers allows for a more intimate and engaging experience, with plenty of opportunities for questions and personalized attention.

Visiting the Historic Herndon Mansion and Alonzo Herndon’s Success

The first stop takes you to the Herndon Home, a 1910 mansion built by Alonzo Herndon and his wife Adrianne. As Georgia’s first Black millionaire, Herndon’s story exemplifies overcoming discrimination and achieving prosperity. The admission is included, and the visit lasts about 30 minutes. Travelers get to see how Herndon rose from slavery on a Georgia plantation to become a business leader, providing a powerful example of dignity and resilience.

Walk Through the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site

Next is the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site on Auburn Avenue, once known as the wealthiest Black street in America. Here, visitors see the home where Martin Luther King Jr. was born, restored to reflect his first 12 years. The site offers a free 35-minute visit, giving insight into the early life of the civil rights leader and the thriving Black community that supported him.

Explore Booker T. Washington High School and Educational Roots

The tour includes a visit to Booker T. Washington High School, Georgia’s first Black public high school. This school highlights the importance of education for Black students in the southern U.S., especially prior to emancipation. Travelers learn how small communities and the Rosenwald Foundation helped provide education at both normal and college levels to underserved Black populations. This stop emphasizes the role of education in empowerment.

Drive Past Historic Black Colleges and the Atlanta Student Movement Street

A drive-through segment showcases Atlanta’s historic HBCUs: Spelman College, Morehouse College, Clark Atlanta University, and the Ray Charles Performing Arts Center at the West End. The tour also visits Atlanta Student Movement Street, where students marched in protest of racial laws in 1960. Seeing these landmarks underscores Atlanta’s long-standing role in Black higher education and activism.

Ponce City Market: From Sears to Modern Midtown

A 45-minute stop at Ponce City Market introduces travelers to Atlanta’s redevelopment success. The old Sears building now hosts a vibrant marketplace with shops and eateries, representing urban renewal and midtown vibrancy. Visitors can enjoy browsing local vendors or grabbing a quick bite, adding a casual contrast to the historical focus of the tour.

Krog Street Market and the Atlanta BeltLine

Next, the tour visits Krog Street Market, a favorite local spot within Inman Park, where visitors can sample local food and wine. The surrounding Atlanta BeltLine combines art installations, parks, and walking trails, showcasing Atlanta’s modern urban renewal efforts. This stop emphasizes community and local culture alongside historic sites.

Walking the Site of the Atlanta Student Movement

The tour concludes with a visit to Atlanta University’s Student Movement Street, famous for the 1960 racial protests. Here, marching students challenged segregation laws, marking a pivotal moment in the city’s civil rights history. This site embodies activism and the fight for racial equality, leaving a lasting impression of Atlanta’s pivotal role in social change.

Practical Details and Accessibility

The vehicle used is air-conditioned, offering comfort during the approximately 5-hour journey. While most travelers can participate, please note that pickup at Atlanta Airport is not included, and travelers should meet at the designated start point. The tour runs rain or shine, with a full refund if canceled due to poor weather, and a full refund if canceled more than 24 hours in advance.

Evaluating the Tour’s Value and Experience

Priced at $69, this tour provides access to key civil rights landmarks in Atlanta for a reasonable fee. The small group size enhances the experience, allowing for more in-depth storytelling. However, some reviews mention vehicle issues like engine trouble and air conditioning problems, which could affect comfort. Most praise the knowledge and passion of the guide, which helps overcome minor inconveniences.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This experience appeals to those interested in Black history, civil rights, and Atlanta’s cultural legacy. It’s suitable for most travelers with a basic level of mobility, as the tour involves walking through historic sites and riding in a comfortable vehicle. It offers a thoughtful balance of history, culture, and local flavor, making it ideal for history buffs and curious visitors alike.

Final Thoughts on the Auburn Avenue Civil Rights Tour

This half-day tour in Atlanta delivers a focused look at Black heritage and the civil rights movement, highlighting notable landmarks and historical figures. The personalized small-group setting and insightful guide make it a worthwhile choice for those wanting a meaningful introduction to Atlanta’s contributions to social justice.

While vehicle issues have been noted, the educational content and site visits compensate well. The $69 price point makes this an accessible, enriching option, especially for travelers seeking depth and context over superficial sightseeing. It’s best suited for history enthusiasts, students of social justice, and anyone eager to better understand Atlanta’s pivotal role in the Civil Rights era.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include transportation?
Yes, the tour features a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle for the entire 5-hour experience.

Are there any food options during the tour?
The tour itself does not include food, but stops at Ponce City Market and Krog Street Market offer opportunities to sample local cuisine.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider mobility needs since some walking at stops might be involved.

What landmarks will I see on the tour?
You’ll visit Herndon Home, MLK Jr. National Historic Site, Booker T. Washington High School, Atlanta HBCUs, Ponce City Market, Krog Street Market, and Atlanta Student Movement Street.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, cancellations are free if made more than 24 hours in advance; last-minute cancellations receive a full refund.

Are there any hidden costs?
No, the $69 price covers most activities and admission to included sites.

How large is the tour group?
The group is limited to 13 participants for a more personalized experience.

Is the tour accessible for people with disabilities?
Most travelers can participate, but check specific mobility requirements before booking.

Will I learn about modern Atlanta?
Yes, the guide covers both historical and current aspects of the city’s Black community and social activism.

Is there a guide available to answer questions?
Absolutely, the guide is praised for their knowledge and passion, making the experience engaging and informative.