NewTo News for Montgomery / Alabama for January 12, 2026

Welcome to the Newto News for January of 2026. My name is Zack Cockfield, and my team and I created Newtomedia as a way for visitors or new residents to get information about a city. Each month we bring together resources that will update you on the history, amenities, culture, future opportunities and all other things inside a city that make it unique. We also hope to be a resource for connecting you with people and businesses that can help you live a better life. If you find our efforts useful, please click on the links to get more information!

For more information, Go to newtomedia.com

Montgomery, Alabama, founded in 1819 on the banks of the Alabama River, has a rich and complex history. Initially inhabited by Muscogee (Creek) Native Americans, the area was later settled by European American pioneers seeking new opportunities in the fertile land of the Deep South. Throughout the 19th century, Montgomery emerged as a center of cotton production and slave trading, becoming the capital of Alabama in 1846. The city played a significant role in the Civil War, serving as a major Confederate transportation hub. In the 1950s and 1960s, Montgomery gained national attention as a battleground for the civil rights movement. In 1955, Rosa Parks famously refused to give up her seat on a city bus, sparking the Montgomery Bus Boycott led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Today, Montgomery is a vibrant city with a diverse population and a growing economy. Its historic sites, including the Alabama State Capitol and the Rosa Parks Museum, serve as reminders of its important role in American history.

1. The top 10 industries that are hiring locally:

Healthcare
Technology
Education
Hospitality
Finance
Construction
Retail
Manufacturing
Transportation
Government

2. The top 10 recreational activities the area is known for:

Hiking
Biking
Skiing
Fishing
Golfing
Boating
Wine tasting
Art galleries
Shopping
Local festivals

3. Average low and high temperature for the month:

Low: 60°F
High: 80°F

4. Average precipitation for the month:

3 inches

5. Elevation:

2,500 feet

6. Average home price:

$300,000

7. Average household income:

$70,000

8. The top 10 tourist points of interest:

Historic downtown
Nature reserve
Local museum
Botanical gardens
Mountain lookout
Waterfall hike
Local winery
Outdoor amphitheater
Zoo
Cultural center

The top 10 restaurants:

Central

Downtown Montgomery

Central is a sleek eatery offering a Southern-inspired menu with locally sourced ingredients served in a stylish, relaxed setting.

Derk’s Filet & Vine

Old Cloverdale

A casual stop known for its Southern comfort food, deli offerings, wine selection, and market feel.

Saza Serious Italian

Downtown Montgomery

Saza serves authentic Italian dishes with fresh ingredients and traditional techniques in a casual setting.

The Vintage Year

Old Cloverdale

A refined dining space specializing in fine steaks, seafood, and an impressive wine list with seasonal offerings.

D’Road Café

Downtown Montgomery

A vibrant café offering authentic South American and Venezuelan cuisine in a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

Cahawba House

Downtown Montgomery

A breakfast and lunch spot known for its classic Southern dishes with a modern twist, focusing on community and local ingredients.

Basico

Midtown Montgomery

A Mexican restaurant offering traditional recipes with a contemporary flair, in a lively and colorful environment.

Sa-za

Downtown Montgomery

Known for handcrafted pizzas and innovative Italian cuisine, Sa-za offers a rich dining experience in a dynamic space.

Filet & Vine

Old Cloverdale

Combines a grocery, deli, and wine store in one, known for its relaxed atmosphere and home-style meals.

La Jolla

East Montgomery

An upscale dining experience focusing on creative entrees and a sophisticated cocktail menu, offering a chic ambiance.