
Kress Building
Historic Kress Buildings, once department stores, are now revitalized hubs for art, living, and community, showcasing stunning architecture.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration

Kress Building
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic Kress Buildings, once department stores, are now revitalized hubs for art, living, and community, showcasing stunning architecture.
"Admire the iconic spiral staircases and vibrant art galleries that blend history with modern urban flair."

📸 Capture the Architecture
Don't miss the unique spiral staircases and Art Deco details for stunning photos!
📅 Check for Events
Many Kress Buildings host art exhibits, community events, and markets.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Iconic Spiral Staircase
Downtown Columbia, SC
A unique architectural feature that blends vintage charm with urban flair, perfect for photos.

Art Galleries & Exhibits
Various Kress Building locations
Showcasing local artists and historical narratives, offering a glimpse into community culture.

Rooftop Views
Birmingham, AL
Experience breathtaking cityscapes from one of the tallest rooftops, ideal for events and gatherings.

Historic Architecture
Multiple cities
Admire the striking Art Deco designs and masonry that made S.H. Kress & Company stores stand out.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Historic Charm Meets Modern Living
Discovering the Kress Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Architecture
Don't miss the unique spiral staircases and Art Deco details for stunning photos!
📅 Check for Events
Many Kress Buildings host art exhibits, community events, and markets.
☕ Enjoy Local Coffee Shops
Some Kress locations feature popular coffee spots like Prevail Union.
🗣️ Engage with History
Visit the Storybooth at Kress on Dexter to share or hear reflections on Montgomery's history.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Architecture
Don't miss the unique spiral staircases and Art Deco details for stunning photos!
📅 Check for Events
Many Kress Buildings host art exhibits, community events, and markets.
☕ Enjoy Local Coffee Shops
Some Kress locations feature popular coffee spots like Prevail Union.
🗣️ Engage with History
Visit the Storybooth at Kress on Dexter to share or hear reflections on Montgomery's history.
🏙️ Explore Multi-Use Spaces
Discover how Kress buildings are revitalized into apartments, shops, and event venues.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Reviews for Kress Buildings highlight their stunning architectural beauty and successful revitalization into vibrant community spaces, art galleries, and residences. While many praise the historical charm and modern amenities, some past tenant experiences have noted issues with landlord behavior and property management.
"Downtown Montgomery has a beautiful built environment, and I bet there is a rich story about how this building was re-developed into public space.
I came on Sunday, and only the coffee shop was open. MGM tours has a beautiful exhibit space, and if you want to book a tour, call their phone number directly. I’m glad I did. Story booth was closed yesterday, but I came back today and was able to engage with the audio clips. I recommend visiting more than once; you may want to come back up Storybooth to leave a reflection of your own after visiting."
Susan Sanford
"Kress on Dexter is now a multi-use building that houses storefronts, apartments, and event spaces. The newly renovated building also showcases a breathtaking gallery of art that features mostly local creators. This development has stepped forward, in spite of it's segregated past, towards a more inclusive future. There are deep and rich moments of history related to this building. You simply have to experience first-hand all that Kress on Dexter has to offer."
Joyce Vaughn
"No longer a department store. Now a beautiful place to enjoy the talent of local artists, reflect and share your stories of Montgomery history, take a tour with More Than Tours, and enjoy a good cup of coffee at Prevail Union."
C. J. Avery
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Kress Building has a presence in multiple cities, including Columbia, SC, El Paso, TX, Birmingham, AL, and Montgomery, AL. Each location has its own unique history and current use. For specific directions, search for 'Kress Building' followed by the city name.
Parking availability varies by city and specific Kress Building location. Downtown areas often have metered street parking or nearby parking garages. It's advisable to check local parking information for the city you plan to visit.
Many Kress Buildings are located in downtown areas, which are typically well-served by public transportation. Check the local transit authority's website for routes and schedules that serve the Kress Building's address in your chosen city.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Kress Building itself is generally free, as it often houses public spaces like art galleries or shops. However, specific exhibits, tours, or events held within the building may require tickets. Check the event organizer's website for details.
Operating hours can vary significantly as Kress Buildings are often multi-use. Shops and coffee shops may have standard business hours, while galleries or event spaces will have specific times. It's best to check the hours for individual businesses or events within the building.
In some locations, like Kress on Dexter in Montgomery, guided tours are available through organizations like More Than Tours. It's recommended to call ahead or check their website for tour schedules and booking information.
Yes, many Kress Buildings are repurposed as event spaces. They are popular for weddings, parties, and corporate functions, often featuring rooftop access. Inquire directly with the venue management for rental information.
📸 📸 Photography
The iconic spiral staircases are a major draw for photographers. Look for unique architectural details, Art Deco elements, and any art installations within the building. Rooftop views also offer great photographic opportunities.
Generally, personal photography is allowed in public areas of the Kress Building. However, commercial photography or filming may require special permits. Always be respectful of other visitors and any posted signage.
While not explicitly stated for all locations, it's good practice to avoid intrusive photography, especially in art galleries or during private events. If you plan a professional photoshoot, contact the building management beforehand.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, many Kress Buildings house dining establishments. For example, Prevail Union coffee shop is located in the Kress on Dexter in Montgomery. Other locations might feature restaurants or bars, like Salt By Angie in the Kress Building.
The culinary offerings vary widely. You might find anything from casual coffee and pastries to upscale dining experiences with steaks and pasta, or even catering for events.
🎫 💡 Onsite Experience
The S.H. Kress & Company empire began in 1896, known for its striking Art Deco architecture designed to stand out. These buildings often served as five-and-dime department stores, becoming landmarks in their cities. Many have since been redeveloped into modern living and community spaces.
At Kress on Dexter, you can explore art galleries featuring local creators, engage with the Storybooth to share or hear historical reflections, take a tour with More Than Tours, and enjoy coffee at Prevail Union.
The Kress Building in Downtown El Paso is undergoing renovation into a multi-use building with restaurants, stores, and a spa, aiming to revitalize the area.
The Kress Building in Columbia, SC, is slated to become the future home of SAAACAM, aiming to be one of the largest African American museums in the country.
Yes, several Kress Buildings have been converted into residential lofts and apartments, offering a blend of historic charm and modern amenities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for Kress buildings that have been converted into mixed-use spaces, as they often include cafes or shops where families can grab a snack. The unique architecture, like spiral staircases, can also be a point of fascination for children. Always check for specific family-friendly events or exhibits happening during your visit to maximize the fun.
🏛️ History Buffs
In Montgomery, the Kress on Dexter specifically invites visitors to engage with local history through its Storybooth and art exhibits that often reflect the city's past. Researching the specific history of the Kress Building in your chosen city before your visit can greatly enhance the experience, providing context for the architectural details and the building's evolution over time.
📸 Photographers & Influencers
Many Kress buildings also feature rooftop spaces that provide panoramic city views, perfect for capturing stunning urban landscapes or sunset shots. When visiting art galleries within the Kress, be mindful of any photography restrictions. For influencers, the unique aesthetic of the Kress Building can provide a distinctive setting for content creation, from fashion shoots to lifestyle vlogs.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Legacy of S.H. Kress & Company
Many of these historic Kress buildings have since been repurposed, breathing new life into their original structures. Developers have transformed them into vibrant residential lofts, modern apartments, bustling commercial spaces, and cultural hubs. This adaptive reuse preserves the architectural heritage while meeting contemporary needs, allowing new generations to appreciate the craftsmanship and historical significance of these iconic structures.
Kress Buildings as Community Hubs
Similarly, in Columbia, South Carolina, the Kress Building is set to become the future home of SAAACAM, an institution dedicated to African American history and culture. This initiative aims to establish one of the largest museums of its kind in the country, further cementing the Kress Building's role as a significant cultural anchor. These examples demonstrate how historic Kress properties are being reimagined to serve as dynamic spaces for art, history, community engagement, and economic revitalization.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit