Civil Rights Garden
A poignant granite garden in Atlantic City honoring the Civil Rights Movement with inscribed pillars and a 'Hand of Justice' statue.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for viewing inscriptions
Civil Rights Garden
Best Time
Best for viewing inscriptions

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A poignant granite garden in Atlantic City honoring the Civil Rights Movement with inscribed pillars and a 'Hand of Justice' statue.
"A beautiful monument to the people who fought tirelessly for civil rights; the pillars are grand, and the rhetoric is profound."
Allocate 30 Minutes
Quick visit, but allow time to read quotes and reflect on the history . :stopwatch:
Start on the Right
Begin with shorter pillars and move chronologically for the full impact . :arrow_right:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Granite Pillars
Throughout the garden
Towering granite columns inscribed with quotes and events, symbolizing the movement's growth.

The Hand of Justice Statue
Central area
A majestic statue representing the pursuit of justice and equality.

Informational Inscriptions
Around the pillars
Profound and emotional rhetoric detailing key moments and figures of the Civil Rights era.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
A Moment of Reflection
Respectful Engagement
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Allocate 30 Minutes
Quick visit, but allow time to read quotes and reflect on the history.
:stopwatch:Start on the Right
Begin with shorter pillars and move chronologically for the full impact.
:arrow_right:Respectful Observation
Be mindful of the garden's purpose; some visitors note unhoused individuals present.
:pray:History Buff's Must-See
Essential stop for anyone interested in the Civil Rights Movement's history.
:books:First time in Atlantic city, things to do/things to know?
Tips
from all over the internet
Allocate 30 Minutes
Quick visit, but allow time to read quotes and reflect on the history.
:stopwatch:Start on the Right
Begin with shorter pillars and move chronologically for the full impact.
:arrow_right:Respectful Observation
Be mindful of the garden's purpose; some visitors note unhoused individuals present.
:pray:History Buff's Must-See
Essential stop for anyone interested in the Civil Rights Movement's history.
:books:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Civil Rights Garden for its profound historical significance and impactful design, particularly the symbolic granite pillars and the 'Hand of Justice' statue. It's seen as a vital memorial and educational site. However, some reviews mention the garden appearing unkempt at times and the presence of unhoused individuals.
"It's a small garden, full of information. Start on the right, where the pillars are shorter, read the quotes around each pillar. They get larger as more time passes and more incidents occur across our country. The pillars build until completed. There were some street people lying in the garden when I visited, but they didn't speak or move when I walked through."
Diane Leiter
"I love this garden. It serves as a memorial to all who fought for civil rights and equal rights for everyone. It’s a great tribute in the middle of Atlantic City. If you’re interested in history you MUST come here!!"
Zarina Mehrfar
"Do not go very disappointing lots of homeless people sleeping there and doing drugs"
Alan Tran
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Civil Rights Garden is located in Atlantic City, New Jersey. It's accessible by car, and parking may be available nearby. Public transportation options might also serve the area, though specific routes would need to be checked with local transit authorities. It's often mentioned in the context of visiting Atlantic City attractions.
While specific directions can vary, the garden is a notable landmark in Atlantic City. Using GPS or a mapping app is recommended for precise navigation. It's often mentioned in discussions about Atlantic City tourism.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Civil Rights Garden is a free public space. Visitors can explore its monuments and inscriptions without any charge.
As an outdoor garden, it's generally accessible during daylight hours. However, it's advisable to check for any specific park hours or potential closures, especially if visiting during events.
Guided tours are not typically advertised for the Civil Rights Garden. The experience is largely self-guided, allowing visitors to read the inscriptions at their own pace.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Start on the right side where the pillars are shorter and move chronologically. Read the quotes around each pillar as they increase in size, symbolizing the progression of the Civil Rights Movement.
The 'Hand of Justice' statue is also a key focal point.Most visitors find that about 30 minutes is sufficient to view everything and absorb the information presented.
It's a compact yet impactful site.The garden is intended as a place of reflection and remembrance. While it's a tribute to the Civil Rights Movement, some visitors have noted the presence of unhoused individuals, which can affect the atmosphere.
As a garden space, extensive facilities are unlikely. Restrooms and other amenities would typically be found at nearby attractions or public spaces in Atlantic City.
The garden offers educational value for older children who can understand the historical context of the Civil Rights Movement. The inscriptions provide a learning opportunity.
📸 📸 Photography
Key photo spots include the 'Hand of Justice' statue and the series of granite pillars, especially as they increase in size. Capturing the inscriptions on the pillars can also be powerful.
Yes, photography and videography are generally permitted for personal use. However, always be respectful of the solemn nature of the site and other visitors.
Daylight hours offer the best lighting for clear photos of the inscriptions and statues. Early morning or late afternoon might provide softer light and fewer crowds.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep the visit concise, focusing on the main pillars and the 'Hand of Justice' statue to maintain engagement. While the garden is free and open, consider the potential for unhoused individuals being present, which might require parental guidance on how to navigate such situations respectfully. The garden's relatively small size makes it manageable for families looking for a brief, impactful historical stop.
📚 History Enthusiasts
Take your time to read the quotes and reflect on the historical significance of each inscribed event. The 'Hand of Justice' statue adds another layer of symbolism to explore. This garden offers a profound and accessible way to connect with a crucial chapter of American history, making it a highly recommended stop for history buffs.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Design and Symbolism
The garden also features a prominent 'Hand of Justice' statue, a majestic representation of the ongoing pursuit of fairness and equality. This sculpture serves as a powerful focal point, reinforcing the garden's core message. Visitors are encouraged to start their exploration on the right side of the garden, where the pillars are shorter, and proceed through the sequence to fully appreciate the intended narrative flow.
While the garden is a place of profound historical significance, some visitors have noted that the surrounding area can sometimes be unkempt, with trash or wilted flowers reported. Despite these occasional issues, the core message and the impactful design of the garden remain a compelling draw for those interested in American history and the fight for civil rights.
Historical Significance and Visitor Experience
Many visitors find the garden to be deeply moving and informational, appreciating its tribute to the tireless efforts of activists and leaders. The profound rhetoric etched into the granite pillars often leaves a lasting impression. However, it's important for visitors to be aware that, like many urban public spaces, the garden can sometimes host unhoused individuals. While these individuals are often described as non-disruptive, their presence is something to be mindful of.
Despite any minor drawbacks, the Civil Rights Garden is consistently recommended for its historical importance and its role as a significant educational site in Atlantic City. It offers a moment of reflection and a tangible connection to a pivotal era in American history.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit