Summary
As a suburb of Birmingham, Alabama, Mountain Brook offers visitors convenient access to numerous city attractions.
Renowned as one of the state’s most prosperous suburbs, it boasts a wealth of historic landmarks, parks, shops, bars, and dining options.
Whether you prefer to spend a day at the Birmingham Zoo, wander through splendid botanical gardens, or enjoy a serene walk along the banks of the Cahaba River, Mountain Brook serves as an ideal starting point.
Having a deep familiarity with Birmingham, I can attest to Mountain Brook’s charm as a great locale for exploration. You will likely discover an array of enjoyable activities among my curated selection of the best experiences in and around Mountain Brook, Alabama:
1. Cahaba River Walk
Source: BJ Ray / shutterstockWith its abundant hiking trails, fishing areas, and several swimming locations, I find it effortless to spend an entire day by the Cahaba River.
A few miles from Mountain Brook, visitors can indulge in canoeing, kayaking, and boating. Alternatively, those wishing to stay on solid ground can follow nature trails to observe hundreds of plant and wildlife species.
Bring a picnic along with your camera, and revel in the calming sounds of the river while dining outdoors in this scenic natural environment.
2. Birmingham Botanical Gardens
Source: Bonita R. Cheshier / shutterstockBirmingham Botanical Gardens are just over two miles from Mountain Brook, making it convenient for a stroll or drive for an outing you will not regret.
These seasonal gardens are a visual delight, encompassing over 67.5 acres with more than 30 themed displays.
The Nature Gardens celebrate indigenous plants and flowers native to the southeastern United States, while the Cultural Gardens focus on various elements of human culture.
Enjoy a leisurely walk through fragrant Herb Terraces, charming Japanese Gardens, and landscapes adorned with wildflowers before visiting the café for a light meal and beverage.
3. Birmingham Zoo
Source: Wayne Hsieh78 / shutterstockAs one of Alabama’s most visited attractions, the Birmingham Zoo hosts over 900 animals across 230 species.
This 122-acre zoo features various traveling exhibits, alongside permanent residents that include endangered species like American Flamingos, African Elephants, Grant’s Zebras, and Black-Handed Spider Monkeys.
To enhance the animals’ quality of life, zookeepers create enriching environments, presenting food in puzzles and ensuring balanced diets.
Visitors can engage in daily educational talks and exhibitions to learn more about specific species, and those interested in supporting the zoo can even adopt their favorite animal.
4. Vulcan Park and Museum
Source: Sean Pavone / shutterstockPerched atop Red Mountain, the statue of Vulcan – the god of fire and forge – signifies the city’s industrial history.
Standing tall at 56 feet, this statue is constructed from 100,000 pounds of iron.
The museum and visitor center at Vulcan Park provide an excellent opportunity to explore the city’s heritage and learn how iron was produced in local furnaces and foundries.
Enjoy the scenic trails, savor a mountaintop picnic, or practice your photography skills during this informative and enjoyable outing.
5. Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark
Source: IA Film Group / shutterstockContinue your exploration of the region’s industrial legacy at Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark.
These towering structures in Birmingham were once the busiest pig iron blast furnaces globally until their closure in 1971. Currently, they function as an interpretive museum and are venues for music concerts, festivals, and haunted ghost tours.
6. Jemison Park
Source: JMcQ / shutterstockNamed after Robert Jemison Jr, a notable businessman and entrepreneur, Jemison Park is situated on the outskirts of Mountain Brook. This expansive 54-acre park is a favored recreational site, featuring miles of hiking and cycling pathways that skirt the Cahaba River.
The park’s trail leads past ‘The Old Mill,’ which historically served as a gristmill and later transformed into a tearoom for horseback riders and hikers seeking refreshments.
Although the mill has been modernized and now exists as a private residence, it continues to form a picturesque backdrop during your stroll.
As you meander along the nature trails, keep an eye out for raccoons, foxes, and various native plants, making it worthwhile to carry your camera along.
7. Highland Park Golf Course
Source: highlandparkgolf.comWhile several golf courses and country clubs in the area may restrict access, Highland Park Golf Course welcomes visitors.
This picturesque golf course boasts stunning views of the Birmingham city skyline and holds the distinction of being Alabama’s oldest golf course, established in 1903. Its layout offers enjoyment for beginners, intermediates, and seasoned golfers alike.
Measuring over 5,800 yards from the back tees, this par-70 course presents a mix of elevation changes, uphill shots, lakes, and meandering creeks suitable for golfers of all skill levels.
8. Avondale Brewing Company
Source: avondalebrewing.comIf you are interested in local history along with your craft beer, Avondale Brewing Company is a must-visit.
Housed in a historic building with a fascinating past that includes being a firehouse, bank, and local saloon with a bordello, this brewery offers a variety of beers and pale ales to taste.
I particularly enjoyed the Spring Street Saison Brew, a blend incorporating four malts and traditional Slovenian hops, as well as the Battlefield IPA, a gluten-free ale crafted with American and European malt and west coast hops. There is something to satisfy every palate.
9. The Market at Pepper Place
Source: facebook.comEach Saturday, The Market at Pepper Place opens to the community, welcoming both locals and visitors.
Featuring fresh produce and goods from over 120 Alabama food vendors, farmers, and artisans, it serves as an excellent venue to gather supplies for a picnic or find a handmade memento.
Stop by for a midday snack, with stalls offering delightful pastries, sausage biscuits, and savory croissants, or opt for creamy ice cream and frozen treats to satisfy your sweet cravings.
10. Dyron’s Lowcountry Restaurant
Source: facebook.comDyron’s Lowcountry Restaurant in Mountain Brook has been operational since 2009. Managed by the husband-and-wife duo Dyron and Sonya Powell, this inviting restaurant provides a space to relax and relish authentic Southern cuisine.
The menu offers a range of dishes, from delectable fresh oysters and Southern Alabama seafood gumbo to Black Iron-Seared Beef Tenderloin and savory Iberico Pork Rib Chops.
11. McWane Science Center
Source: Ritu Manoj Jethani / shutterstockThe McWane Science Center invites visitors of all ages to immerse themselves in science, nature, and engineering.
Experiment with the science of bubbles, view Combustion and Lightning Strikes demonstrations at Rushton Theater, and explore McWane’s interpretation of the Tesla Coil.
Engage with concepts of mass distribution on a Bed of Nails or utilize mathematics to unlock a safe combination.
No matter your choices, you are assured a fun and educational experience at McWane Science Center in Birmingham, Alabama.
12. Alabama Theatre
Source: BJ Ray / shutterstockConstructed by Paramount Studios in 1927, the Alabama Theatre was originally intended as a venue for showcasing films in Birmingham. Currently, it hosts over 300 live performances and movie screenings annually.
Having undergone extensive restoration, the theatre reflects a dazzling 1927 aesthetic.
Visitors are encouraged to participate in behind-the-scenes tours that include the balconies and auditorium while enjoying a demonstration of Big Bertha, the theatre’s impressive Wurlitzer organ.
13. Railroad Park
Source: Sean Pavone / shutterstockThis 19-acre space in Downtown Birmingham serves as a perfect retreat for moments of relaxation and strolls away from the city’s hustle and bustle.
With looping hiking trails, a lake, a wetland area, and stunning vistas of the Birmingham skyline, it captivates every visitor.
Visitors can enjoy picnicking spots, or dine at the Boxcar café for lunch and snacks. Moreover, Railroad Park regularly hosts events including free cooking classes, food trucks, and lawn game contests.
Annually, the park transforms into a family campground where guests can participate in nature shows, astronomy discussions, and traditional campsite storytelling.
