Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Irondale, AL

Irondale is a city and suburb of Birmingham, Alabama, recognized as the inspiration for the book and 1991 film “Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Café.” Established in 1887, the city derives its name from the Irondale Furnace, the first furnace to resume operations after the Civil War.

The rich heritage of Irondale continues to be explored through mountain trails, museums, train stations, and parks in the surrounding area.

The city caters to all age groups, providing a wide array of activities.

Whether one is interested in hiking trails, playing golf, or engaging in an exhilarating Train Escape Room challenge, Irondale offers numerous opportunities for enjoyment.

1. Ruffner Mountain

Historically, Ruffner Mountain was mined for its substantial iron ore reserves.

From the late 19th century to the mid-20th century, the mountain’s mines yielded over 200 tons of ore daily.

This iron ore was transported to the nearby Sloss Furnaces in Birmingham, one of the world’s busiest blast furnaces for smelting.

Presently, although the mines are no longer operational, visitors can explore the mountain via 14 miles of scenic trails, or visit the Ruffner Mountain Nature Centre, which houses a variety of native species including the common garter snake, little brown bat, red fox, and green tree frog.

2. Irondale Train Watching Platform

For train enthusiasts, visiting the Irondale Train Watching Platform is essential.

This platform is rich in history and frequently showcases lengthy freight trains commingling along the tracks each day.

Visitors are encouraged to bring their cameras along with snacks from the renowned Irondale Café located across the road, as seating areas on the historic wooden covered viewing platform are available for train-watching.

3. Irondale Café

Located in Downtown, opposite the Irondale Train Watching Platform, the famous Irondale Café has gained remarkable recognition.

This charming café served as the inspiration behind the book and the 1991 film “Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Café,” featuring actors Kathy Bates, Jessica Tandy, and Mary-Louise Parker.

Since 1928, the café has been an integral part of the community, beloved by locals and visitors alike.

Whether one chooses to savor the Buttermilk Fried Chicken, Windy Hill Farm Raised Catfish, or a plate of Fried Green Tomatoes, these delectable dishes are a mainstay at this establishment.

4. Irondale Furnace Trail

The city of Irondale is named after the inaugural blast furnace to operate post-American Civil War, and this area features a scenic hiking trail leading to the site of the furnace, blacksmith shop, foundry, housing, tramways, and stables.

As you traverse the trail, you can discover insights into the region’s history, as each historical location is documented with informative signage for visitors.

Whether you prefer hiking, running, walking your dog, enjoying a picnic, or sunbathing on grassy areas adjacent to the pathways, this compelling 1.3-mile-long trail provides a multitude of options.

5. Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum

If motorsports, particularly vintage and contemporary motorcycles, pique your interest, the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum in nearby Birmingham is a must-visit destination.

The museum is founded by George Barber, a former Porsche racing driver who clinched 63 victories throughout the 1960s.

Upon retiring from racing, his focus shifted towards collecting and restoring classic automobiles.

However, his good friend Dave Hooper, a motorcycle enthusiast, encouraged Barber to emphasize motorcycles instead, as no existing museum boasted such an expansive vintage motorcycle collection.

Today, the museum features over 1,600 motorcycles, with several hundred on display each day.

More than 200 manufacturers are represented, from Indian to DSK, Honda, and Harley-Davidson.

Even if motorcycles aren’t your forte, the museum showcases rare racing cars, including a selection of Lotus sports cars and the 1964 Ferrari F-158 that enabled John Surtees to win the Formula 1 World Championship.

6. Statue of Liberty Replica

A journey along the southern bypass of Birmingham, Alabama may present a familiar sight.

Towering above the road, adjacent to billowing stars and stripes of the American flag, is a replica of the Statue of Liberty.

Situated in Liberty Park, a commercial complex on the south side of the city near Vestavia Hills, this replica stands at one-fifth the scale of the original and is accentuated at night by a continuously burning flame.

7. Alabama Veterans Memorial Park

Delve into American military history at Alabama Veterans Memorial Park near Irondale.

This picturesque park honors the men and women of Alabama who sacrificed their lives in service to their country.

Their legacy is preserved in the poignant Regiment of Columns, which comprises 36 columns, each measuring two feet in diameter and 20 feet high, etched with family letters, stories, and artwork created by Alabama artists.

Additionally, visitors can explore the Hall of Honour, which lists the names of all Alabama veterans lost during 20th and 21st-century conflicts.

At the end of the trail, The American Flag Plaza and StepStones serve as a fitting tribute to veterans, featuring names, platoons, and ranks engraved on bricks beneath the flagpoles.

8. Flora Johnston Nature Park

If your goal is to reconnect with nature, you do not have to travel far.

The Flora Johnston Nature Trail in Irondale offers two scenic trails that you can traverse, with tree carvings, rock walls, woodlands, and creeks lining your path.

This location is exceptional for bird-watching during spring and autumn, while hiking and photography can be enjoyable throughout the year.

The trail usually takes around an hour each way and is not overly challenging, making it suitable for families.

9. Train Escape

For those traveling with family and friends, spending an enjoyable one to three hours at Train Escape in Irondale can be a great option!

In these scenarios, the escape rooms are located inside vintage railroad carriages, featuring a collection of puzzles, scavenger hunts, and challenges that must be solved within 60 minutes to escape.

There are three options available, including the Sabotage Room, where participants must infiltrate an enemy train to stop a missile strike before time runs out! This offers an entertaining way to enjoy a cloudy or rainy afternoon, especially for those residing in Irondale.

10. Saw’s Juke Joint

Some of the finest Bar-B-Q food and entertainment in the region can be found near Irondale at Saw’s Juke Joint.

This lively establishment offers a menu of authentic Southern barbecue paired with live blues and jazz music.

It presents a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere that appeals to the entire family, adorned with decor full of fascinating memorabilia.

Guests can indulge in dishes such as Saw’s Original Pulled Pork Sandwich with slaw, Sweet Tea Fried Chicken Sandwich, Catfish ‘n’ Greens, Jumbo Smoked Wings, or Smoked Sausage.

Additionally, for those planning a day out, the ‘To Go’ menu is available.

For an exciting night out with excellent food, fantastic music, and the opportunity to meet new friends, Saw’s Juke Joint is the perfect destination.

11. Southern Museum of Flight

The Southern Museum of Flight is situated less than a 10-minute drive from Irondale, housing over 100 aircraft, models, engines, paintings, and historical artifacts.

This museum serves as a captivating venue for aviation enthusiasts and those interested in the history of flight.

Visitors have the opportunity to view realistic dioramas, learn to fly using a plane simulator, or explore outdoor military aircraft and exhibits surrounding the venue.

12. East Lake Park

Established in 1886, East Lake Park has a rich history, once serving as a zoo, amusement park, and concert venue.

Currently, it is a serene fishing spot featuring a picturesque lake and piers, allowing visitors to spend hours fishing for their catch of the day.

Several nature trails surround the lake, meandering through lush woodlands, or you may opt to relax on the grassy areas for a leisurely picnic.

13. Five Points South

Five Points South is a historic district situated on the outskirts of Birmingham, Alabama, approximately 7 miles from Irondale.

This district is the city’s principal entertainment and dining hub, featuring numerous architecturally significant buildings.

The vibrant area is excellent for acquiring souvenirs from your Alabama visit or browsing the latest gifts and fashion trends.

It is also a fantastic venue for an evening out, with an assortment of upscale bars, grills, and fine dining establishments.

Additionally, visitors should not miss the beautiful Storyteller Fountain, designed by renowned local artist Frank Fleming, which exemplifies his love for animals and nature.

14. McWane Science Centre

The McWane Science Centre in Birmingham provides an excellent day out for inquisitive children and anyone who enjoys engaging with scientific experiments.

This state-of-the-art center features an IMAX Dome Theatre, an aquarium, and a theatre showcasing McWane’s interpretation of the Tesla Coil.

Whether interested in exploring various marine species, browsing Native American artifacts and minerals from Red Mountain, or supervising younger kids in Itty Bitty Magic City, there is truly something for everyone.

15. Heaviest Corner on Earth

Situated at the intersection of 1st Avenue North and 20th Street in Birmingham, Alabama, is an area referred to as the ‘Heaviest Corner on Earth.’ This nickname originates from the fact that the buildings here were the first steel-constructed skyscrapers in the southeastern United States, evocatively suggesting the idea of weighing down the corner.

The buildings, which were established between 1902 and 1912, include the Empire Building, Brown Marx Building, American Trust and Savings Bank, and Woodward Building.

While the buildings may have undergone name changes, the historic structures remain and are now registered in the National Register of Historic Places.