Freedom Riders National Monument


In 1961, a small interracial band of “Freedom Riders” challenged discriminatory laws requiring separation of the races in interstate travel. They were attacked by white segregationists, who firebombed the bus. Images of the attack appeared in hundreds of newspapers, shocking the American public and spurring the Federal Government to issue regulations banning segregation in interstate travel.

Directions to the Bus Burning Site, from Atlanta and Points East: From I-20, take exit 179 toward AL-202 E/US-78/Coldwater. Merge onto Alabama State Highway 202. Turn right onto Old Birmingham Hwy. The Bus Burning site is located on the right. Limited parking is available at the burn site with entry from the Old Birmingham Hwy. There is no authorized parking or pedestrian activity along State Route 202. For directions to the Anniston Greyhound Bus Depot, click on link below.

  • Guided Tours
  • Self-Guided Tours - Auto

  • African American Heritage
  • Incarceration
  • Jails and Prisons
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  • Tragic Events
  • Explosions

Greyhound Mural

Colored Greyhound mural with historical information about the Freedom Riders

Greyhound mural at the Anniston Greyhound Bus Depot.

Anniston Greyhound Bus Depot

street view of a yellow brick bus depot, with a black awning and NPS sign, and an alley entrance.

The Anniston Greyhound Bus Depot at Freedom Riders National Monument in Anniston AL, site of an attack on Freedom Riders in May of 1961.