Harmony Cemetery
About
Harmony Cemetery offers families a unique opportunity to explore Selma's rich Civil Rights history through educational walking tours that bring the past to life. This peaceful, well-maintained historic site features significant monuments and graves of notable figures, making it an excellent outdoor classroom for children learning about local and national history.
Highlights
- ✓Graves and monuments of significant Civil Rights era figures and local historical leaders
- ✓Educational walking tours that teach children about Selma's important role in American history
- ✓Peaceful outdoor setting perfect for combining history lessons with fresh air
- ✓Free admission makes it an accessible learning experience for all families
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit in the morning when temperatures are cooler, especially during summer months, and bring water bottles for everyone.
- 2.Prepare kids beforehand by discussing the historical significance and teaching cemetery etiquette: speaking quietly and being respectful.
- 3.Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven grass and gravel paths throughout the grounds.
- 4.Bring a camera or smartphone to capture monuments and headstones, which can become part of a family history project or school assignment.
- 5.Download or print information about key historical figures buried here before your visit to create a self-guided scavenger hunt for kids.
Best Time to Visit
Visit during spring (March to May) or fall (October to November) when temperatures are mild and comfortable for walking. Weekday mornings offer the most peaceful experience for reflection and learning without crowds.
What to Know
Admission is completely free, making this an excellent budget-friendly educational outing. There are no formal facilities on site, so plan bathroom breaks before arriving, and be prepared for an outdoor walking experience.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round, but best visited in spring and fall when weather is comfortable. Summer visits should be scheduled early in the day to avoid heat. Winter visits are possible but may require extra layers.
Nearby Eats
Head back to Selma (about 20 minutes away) for family-friendly options like Chicken Shack or Selma Pizza Company, both offering casual dining that kids enjoy.
More Activities Near Selma
First Baptist Church
First Baptist Church in Selma offers families a powerful, age-appropriate introduction to Civil Rights history at the site where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and other leaders planned the historic Selma to Montgomery marches. The church provides educational tours that bring this pivotal moment in American history to life through storytelling and family-friendly presentations, making it an important learning experience for children of all ages.
Craig Field Airport & Industrial Authority
Craig Field Airport & Industrial Authority offers a unique peek into aviation history that will captivate young plane enthusiasts and history buffs alike. This historic site features fascinating educational displays about WWII era aircraft and military history, making it an affordable and educational stop for families exploring Selma's rich heritage.
Lawrence Street
Lawrence Street Park in Selma offers families a welcoming community space perfect for active outdoor play and relaxation. With playground equipment that keeps kids entertained, spacious green areas ideal for running around, and athletic facilities for family games, this free park provides an excellent setting for everything from casual afternoon visits to full-day family picnics.
Mabry-Jones House
The Mabry-Jones House offers families a fascinating glimpse into Selma's past through guided tours of this beautifully preserved historic home. Kids can explore authentic period furnishings and learn about local heritage in an intimate setting that brings history to life in ways textbooks simply cannot.