Moundville Archaeological Park

Roxanne Krohn

Was very nice but the museum only had 2 small displays of actual artifacts. I had visited years ago.. there was so much more to see then… it was the first time for my husband. He thought it was nice and artsy. I was expecting more of an archeological experience.. not like that anymore. Nice gift shop.. it felt more like an Art Gallery than a Museum

David

I felt it would only be fair to prospective visitors to edit the glowing review I left below, some time ago. Going back last month I was very disappointed. The museum has basically been gutted of significant artifacts due to the act by Congress to repatriate funerary artifacts. In their place is either nothing, or exhibits of low quality, with lighting that doesn't work. When I tried to engage with the administration about this I received no reply. The mounds are still there, thankfully, and there is one impressive display as the centerpiece of the museum, but otherwise enjoy looking at empty shelves. Additionally, there are wax figures in some outbuildings depicting Native American houses with various activities going on. The figures are pathetic. Heads dripping down on chests, anything but lifelike. More like a museum of horrors.This has been the case for the past 15 or more years, with no attempt to repair or replace them. Neglectful. The gift shop is well stocked, and the small cafe had welcome refreshments. The museum/cafe attendant was friendly and helpful. There's only one restroom away from the museum, and it was locked. All outdoor signage and totems at the museum entrance are in poor condition. A few mounds are being overgrown by saplings and vines. I picked up trash out of respect for those who built these mounds, but not those who should maintain them. "This is one of the premier archaeological sites in the United States, and worthy of being a World Heritage Site under UNESCO. The small museum, built by the CCC, is first rate, but deserves better maintenance. Visitorship is low, making this a peaceful place to stroll and contemplate. Unfortunately for the good of our present culture, most Americans have their heads inside a football, but you can get away from Tuscaloosa for something in Moundville of lasting significance. Enjoy."

David Henshaw

I really enjoyed the park. I went in without knowing what to expect. The grounds are in good condition and I was able to learn a lot while there. You can climb to the top of two of the mounds and you get a great view of the area. The Douglas Nature Trail near Mound B was very nice as well; a shaded hike through the woods with a platform section at the end. With the exception of the museum, it’s obviously an outdoor experience, so be mindful of the weather; it was a hot and humid day in May for me. I would be hesitant to visit in mid-summer. $8 general admission per person.

Chanda Mitchell

The grounds were beautiful but the museum gave the artifacts related to burial rites back to the descendants of the Native Americans in the Moundville area. Unfortunately, this was 99% of the museum so the display cases are empty. I’m not sure why they are keeping the museum open. Even the famed Rattlesnake Disc was a replica since the real one is on loan to the Cowboy Museum in Oklahoma.

Jennifer Nisengard

A wonderful place to spend the day! We went with family and spent the day wandering around the site, spending time in the museum, at the exhibits, and gift shop and checking out the areas near the water! It was warm, so bring water! It was great to see the University really looking at the artifacts they had on display. A great place to spend a day, lots to learn!