Macon: History, Aviation, and Shore Fishing

In Tuskegee, several places explore campus, science, and aviation history. There is also a historic stretch of road in Shorter and outdoor experiences such as shore fishing at Lake Thloko Okhus. These varied themes offer different starting points for planning your trip.

Campus History and Museums in Tuskegee

The Tuskegee Institute National Historic Site preserves and interprets the historic campus of Tuskegee University. The campus is also designated a Historic District. The George Washington Carver Museum preserves scientific and personal artifacts associated with George Washington Carver and also serves as the park’s visitor center. Visitors to the museum must obtain a visitor pass before entering the Tuskegee University campus.

The Legacy Museum also focuses on the history of Tuskegee University: it showcases the university’s visual art collections as well as its history in science, health care, and bioethics. The Tuskegee History Center offers additional perspectives. Its exhibition topics include the Tuskegee Syphilis Study and Alabama’s civil rights and human rights history. As the official visitor center for Macon County and the City of Tuskegee, its historical scope ranges from prehistory to 20th-century America.

Tours and Visitor Requirements

The Oaks is accessible by reservation only. The 30-minute tour, led by a National Park Service ranger, takes visitors through the first and second floors of the house. A reservation is therefore the main thing to plan for when visiting.

Prospective students must book Tuskegee University campus tours at least three days in advance; check times and availability before your trip. Group campus tours last 60 to 75 minutes, take place on foot, and are led by student ambassadors. Availability for these tours should also be checked before your trip. The tour formats therefore differ in both duration and planning requirements.

Moton Field and the History of the Tuskegee Airmen

During World War II, Moton Field was the only flight training site for African American pilot candidates in the U.S. Army Air Corps. Hangar 1 displays a PT-17 Stearman Kaydet and a Piper Cub. Moton Field Municipal Airport is located immediately next to the Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site. Its 5,000-foot runway is designed for small aircraft and private jets. One other condition is important for getting around on the ground: there is no public bus or train service to Moton Field in the Tuskegee area.

History in Notasulga and Shorter

Notasulga is home to Macon County High School, which was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2020. Its significance is tied to its connection to the civil rights movement from 1963 to 1974. Shorter is home to one of the longest stretches of the Old Federal Road, built in 1804. Both places offer their own historical connections, extending beyond Tuskegee’s campus and aviation history.

Fishing and Outdoor Recreation

At Lake Thloko Okhus, shore fishing for largemouth bass, catfish, and sunfish is permitted; fishing is allowed only from the shore. The Taska Recreation Area has picnic tables, grills, and an information desk with interpretive information. So, in addition to museums and historic sites, there are specific opportunities to spend time outdoors. Those who want to combine different interests can choose from campus and exhibition topics, aviation history, and these lakeside activities.

Discover more destinations: Tuskegee, Shorter, Franklin County, Pike, Talladega, Blount County, Coffee County, Etowah.

For the broader travel overview: Alabama.