Hank William lost his life at the age of 29 on Jan. 1. 1953 but his voice is still considered legendary 71 years later. Country music fans still revel in the smooth tones of songs like “Your Cheating Heart” and “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry.” His legacy lives on through his family members who followed in his footsteps, including his namesake, Hank Williams Jr.

Hank Williams’ footprints are all over the South. We have visited a few places that are part of his story.

The Hank Williams Museum and statue, Montgomery, Alabama

Hank was born in Butler County but moved to Montgomery, so it’s no surprise that the Hank Williams Museum is downtown. Pictures are not allowed inside the museum but there’s a great photo opp in the lobby. The gift shop has several unique items you can take home to remember your visit.

The museum is small but packed with memorabilia of Hank’s life, from his cars to his gold records. There’s a room where you can watch some of the singer’s appearances on television shows.

My favorite part was seeing the stories of his life, from his childhood to the birth of his children and their careers. Hank packed a lot of living in his 29 years.

After visiting the museum, stroll up the street to see the Hank Williams statue just outside of Riverfront Park.

Chris’ Hot Dogs, Montgomery

One of Hank’s favorite hangouts in Montgomery was Chris’ Hot Dogs on Dexter Avenue. If visiting Alabama’s capital city, this is a must-see, but not just because of its ties to Hank. Other famous people said to have dined there are Martin Luther King, Jr., Clark Cable and another famous singer you may have heard of–Elvis Presley.

If you are not a hot dog fan, try their hamburgers or both. Be sure to add some of Chris’ famous chili and fries.

Learn more at the Alabama Department of Archives and History

This is across the street from Alabama’s state capitol building. The museum includes part of a song written in Hank’s own writing. Also included is an image of Hank holding a guitar in one of his famous suits and cowboy boots.

The Ryman Auditorium, Nashville

Hank debuted on the Grand Ole Opry on June 11, 1949. The crowd went wild just shortly after he started singing “Lovesick Blues,” according to information at the Ryman. Hank was loved from the start, and his first performance included six encores. Hank was its first inductee when the Country Music Hall of Fame opened in 1967.

The Burger Bar, Bristol, Virginia

There are so many unanswered questions about Hank’s last few days. The Burger Bar is where many people say he was last seen alive. The restaurant’s wall includes stories about the singer’s last ride. While learning more about Hank, have one of their famous burgers.

Other sites that honor Hank Williams

The Boyhood Home and Museum in Georgiana, Alabama tells the story of Hank’s early childhood. The small town where the singer was born also holds a festival in his honor every year.

You can also learn more about Hank at the Alabama Music Hall of Fame in Tuscumbia. In Union Springs, a mural honoring the late singer is on North Prairie Street.