Top 25 Attractions and Activities in Birmingham, Alabama

Birmingham is the largest city in the state of Alabama and has significantly contributed to the civil rights movements that transformed America in the 1960s. This vibrant city is not only beautiful but also rich in history and offers a wide variety of activities.

Initially renowned for its steel industry, Birmingham has evolved into a multicultural metropolis boasting a prestigious university and emerging sports teams.

As a resident of Birmingham, I have extensively explored Alabama throughout my life, initially with family and later with friends and solo. I firmly believe Birmingham is among the most vibrant cities in Alabama.

With an abundance of attractions, I have compiled a list of what I consider the premier experiences in Birmingham:

1. Meet The Animals At Birmingham Zoo

Hosting over half a million visitors annually, Birmingham Zoo is one of the city’s key attractions. The zoo spans approximately 122 acres, housing 230 diverse animal species. It plays a leading role in animal conservation and is home to endangered species from six different continents.

A newly opened section called Trails of Africa emphasizes the protection of African elephants. Various activities, such as giraffe feeding and the Sea Lion Splash Show, make the zoo appealing to visitors of all ages, and my visit was truly memorable.

2. Prepare For A Fright At Sloss Furnaces

Recognized as one of America’s haunted attractions, Sloss Furnaces operated as a blast furnace from 1882 until 1971, becoming the only one in the U.S. accessible to the public following its closure.

The site now hosts various festivals, educational programs, and events. It is also rented to external companies that present ‘haunted attractions’.

I appreciated their self-guided tour, although a guided tour is also offered (by appointment only). The legend of Mr. James ‘Slag’ Wormwood, foreman during the graveyard shift, adds an intriguing layer of mystery, though his existence remains unverified.

3. View The Collections At Birmingham Museum of Art

Housing over 26,000 paintings, drawings, prints, and decorative arts, the Birmingham Museum of Art features a vast array of works spanning from ancient to contemporary periods, representing diverse cultures. Founded in 1951, admission is generally free, although special exhibitions may incur fees.

The museum is noted for its extensive collection of Asian art—the largest in the Southeast. The exhibition ‘Light Play’ explores the themes of light and play, which I found particularly engaging. Although my last visit was brief due to a lunch reservation, I highly recommend taking your time to fully appreciate the museum’s offerings.

4. Learn About Science At The McWane Science Center

The McWane Science Center’s mission is clear: “Change lives by inspiring a love for science and wonder.” I particularly enjoyed the interactive exhibits, such as the shark touch tank during my visit.

This center serves as an excellent educational venue for children, allowing them to explore scientific concepts without realizing they are learning. The facility includes four levels to investigate, featuring a touch pool for interacting with sharks and stingrays, alongside a comprehensive dinosaur exhibit that is sure to captivate visitors of all ages.

Upon completing your exploration, you can unwind at the IMAX cinema or grab a bite to eat at the café.

5. Watch Some Racing At Barber Motorsports Park

Occupying 740 acres, Barber Motorsports Park was established by George W. Barber. The venue has hosted the IndyCar Series Grand Prix of Alabama since 2010, attracting spectators from across the country.

Additionally, the park features the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum, showcasing over 1,450 vintage and modern racing cars and motorcycles, including the largest collection of motorcycles worldwide. It is also the perfect place for enthusiasts of Lotus racing cars to appreciate a substantial collection.

6. Chill Out At Railroad Park

For those seeking a tranquil environment in Birmingham, Railroad Park is an excellent choice. Encompassing 19 acres, the park features open lawns and approximately 600 trees, alongside diverse flower species.

A picturesque lake occupies 30% of the park, complemented by charming streams that traverse the landscape. For fitness enthusiasts, a loop runs along the perimeter of the park, providing a scenic route for jogging, which culminates at a hill offering stunning city views.

If you’re in the mood for a delightful lunch or a freshly roasted coffee, I recommend The Red Cat at Railroad Park, where I enjoyed a delicious veggie wrap featuring avocado, tomato, cucumber, onions, and more.

7. Get Active At Oak Mountain State Park

For those eager to expend some energy, Oak Mountain State Park is the perfect destination. Spanning 9,940 acres, it is the largest state park in Alabama and conveniently located near Birmingham.

Popular activities in the park include hiking and mountain biking, thanks to over fifty miles of trails—one of which is recognized by the International Mountain Bicycling Association as an EPIC ride.

For visitors less inclined to hike or bike, options include boat rentals, basketball, golf, and more. Personally, I rented a kayak from Flip Side and thoroughly enjoyed exploring the lake at my own pace.

8. Go Back In Time At The Southern Museum of Flight

The Southern Museum of Flight is an expansive 75,000 square feet museum regarded as one of the largest of its kind in Southeastern America. It was established to preserve military, civilian, and experimental aircraft from the early days of flight to the present.

With over ninety aircraft on display, as well as photographs, engines, paintings, and artifacts, visitors can explore the Alabama Aviation Hall of Fame, which features over 65 plaques honoring the state’s most distinguished pilots.

9. Watch A Show At The Alabama Theatre

Located in downtown Birmingham, the Alabama Theatre has been entertaining audiences since 1927 with a variety of shows, films, and concerts.

I recommend checking the schedule online to find upcoming performances that might interest you. Even if you don’t find a show that appeals, taking a stroll down 3rd Avenue North to see the theater is worthwhile.

10. Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve

Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve, once an iron-ore mine and limestone producer, now spans 1,000 acres of scenic beauty. Visitors can explore the area while admiring the diverse native flora and fauna.

The park features over 12 miles of trails for hiking, running, and enjoying the surrounding nature, open to the public for recreational use.

11. Learn About The Jazz Greats At Alabama Jazz Hall Of Fame

Established in 1978, the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame aims to honor the jazz legends born in Alabama. The museum showcases numerous prominent figures such as Duke Ellington, Nat King Cole, Lionel Hampton, and Erskine Hawkins, providing insight into their illustrious careers and the music that propelled them to fame.

Visitors can follow the timeline from the early contributions of Clarence “Pinetop” Smith to contemporary jazz artists. The Hall of Fame is open every Tuesday through Saturday year-round, making it a significant destination in Birmingham, AL.

12. Time For Some American Football At Legion Field

Affectionately referred to as “The Old Grey Lady,” Legion Field Stadium was constructed in 1927 and can accommodate 21,000 spectators. The stadium is named in honor of the American Legion.

Upon its opening, the stadium faced disappointment for Birmingham Southern College as they were defeated 9-0 by Samford University (formerly Howard College).

Legion Field has notably hosted events like the Iron Bowl and Olympic soccer matches in 1996.

13. Learn The History Of Civil Rights At Kelly Ingram Park

During the 1960s, Kelly Ingram Park was a focal point for civil rights rallies, demonstrations, and confrontations, playing a pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement—a significant quest for equality for African American citizens.

A downloadable mobile app provides an informative tour of the park, detailing events that transpired there. Numerous sculptures of key figures involved in these movements can also be found throughout the park.

14. Get Wet At Alabama Adventure & Splash Adventure

Located just minutes from Birmingham, Alabama Adventure & Splash Adventure is a large water park operated by a family, offering hours of enjoyment for visitors of all ages.

With water slides, coasters, wave machines, and various aquatic amusements, there is something for everyone. The park also features additional attractions, including a Mist-ical Maze and a Wipeout adventure course.

Open year-round, the park is perfect for both small and large groups.

15. Relive History At Alabama Sports Hall of Fame

Displaying over 5,000 artifacts, the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame has set a standard for sports museums across the nation.

Inductees represent a wide array of sports, including Alabama legends like Jack Warner and Ray Scott. The museum provides insight into its rigorous induction process, underscoring that only true legends are recognized here.

16. Admire The View From Red Mountain

Red Mountain is a ridge that separates Shades Valley from Jones Valley, noted for its distinctive Silurian rocks, which exhibit rust staining and red seams.

This mountain is also home to the historic Sloss Furnace. The completion of the Red Mountain Expressway in 1970 connected Birmingham to southern suburbs, fostering significant economic development for the region.

Numerous viewpoints along Red Mountain provide exceptional vistas of Birmingham.

17. Watch Some Baseball At Regions Park

Birmingham is home to its own minor league baseball team, the Birmingham Barons, which initially played at Hoover Metropolitan Stadium before relocating to Regions Park. The team has enjoyed moderate success and is affiliated with the Chicago White Sox.

The stadium can accommodate 8,500 spectators and was inaugurated in April 2013. For baseball enthusiasts, this venue provides an enjoyable experience to cheer for the home team.

18. Let’s Play Ball At Bartow Arena

Bartow Arena serves as the home for the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s men’s and women’s basketball teams. Originally named UAB Arena, it was renamed in honor of Gene Bartow upon his retirement from coaching.

The men’s team boasts an impressive record at this arena, winning over 80% of their home games, with an all-time rate of .824. In the 2015/16 season, the UAB Blazers clinched the conference championship and ranked as high as ninth in national standings.

19. Catch A Film At The Sidewalk Moving Picture Festival

Annually, residents and visitors flock to Birmingham for the Sidewalk Moving Picture Festival, held on a weekend in late August. Spanning seven locations within the city, this event allows filmmakers to present their works and introduces audiences to films that might not typically be screened.

Since its inception in 1999, this festival has grown significantly in popularity and has become a staple of Birmingham’s cultural scene. If you plan to attend, it’s advisable to arrange accommodations well in advance, as demand is high during this time.

20. Check Out Some Live Music at Zydeco

Sometimes it’s refreshing to break free from routine and enjoy a night out; Zydeco is an intimate venue featuring a mix of local and touring acts.

The establishment offers 13 types of beer on tap, alongside cocktails and Cajun cuisine. Should the music not align with your taste that evening, you can head upstairs to a patio with pool tables and arcade games. Admission costs vary depending on the performance, but a vibrant night is always a guarantee.

21. Have A Round At Shoal Creek Golf and Country Club

Shoal Creek is an exquisite golf course in Alabama, consistently featured in the PGA Championship rankings. Designed by Jack Nicklaus and opened to the public in 1977, the course rapidly gained acclaim and continues to attract golfers from near and far.

The facility includes four guest cottages for extended stays, a 3-par course known as Little Links, a swimming pool, tennis courts, and a fishing lake.

22. Visit The Vulcan Statue

Vulcan stands as the largest cast-iron statue in the world, comprising over 100,000 pounds of iron and soaring 56 feet in height.

Representing the Roman god of fire and forge, the statue is positioned atop Red Mountain, overlooking Birmingham, symbolizing the city’s iron heritage.

The park surrounding the statue also features a fascinating museum that delves into the rich history of this remarkable city.

23. Dine At Highlands Bar and Grill

Highlands Bar and Grill, a recipient of numerous accolades and recognized as one of America’s finest dining establishments, is located in Birmingham. Overseen by Frank and Pardiss Stitt, this restaurant has been delighting patrons for over thirty years.

Highlands specializes in French-inspired southern cuisine, delivering exceptional service and gastronomic experiences to its patrons. Chef Frank Stitt, one of its owners, has been honored as the ‘Best Chef in the Southeast’, assuring you will receive exemplary culinary service.

24. Increase Your Education Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute serves as a significant museum and research facility centrally located within the city. Its mission is to enhance understanding and appreciation of past civil rights movements.

Over the past two decades, more than two million visitors have explored the institute’s doors to learn its historic significance. It remains an influential part of city life today, featuring both permanent and rotating exhibitions.

25. Remember The Bombing Of The 16th Street Baptist Church

The 16th Street Baptist Church holds significant historical importance, as it was the first black church established in Birmingham and served as a central hub for civil rights demonstrations throughout the 1960s. During this tumultuous period, it was classified as one of the most racially charged cities in America. 

Martin Luther King Jr. was instrumental in leading rallies at this church, which forever changed its legacy. On September 15, 1963, the church suffered an attack when a bomb exploded, tragically killing four girls attending Sunday school.

This atrocity made headlines around the globe and reverberated throughout the country. Community support led to over $300,000 raised to repair and restore the church, memorializing the site as a testament to both tragedy and resilience.