tourist attractions in birmingham alabama

27 Best & Fun Things To Do In Birmingham (Alabama)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: February 25, 2022  - Last updated: May 3, 2024

If you’re planning a trip to the Heart of Dixie, you may be researching things to do in Birmingham.

Lucky for you this beautiful Southeastern state has plenty of opportunities for visitors to enjoy arts, culture, nature, and far beyond.

Known historically as the epicenter of the Civil Rights Movement, Birmingham, Alabama has a rich and colorful history that can be immersively consumed through the many historical landmarks, museums, and commemorative attractions.

Rooted in the steel and iron industries, Birmingham is loaded with historical landmarks paying homage to the state’s industrial roots.

Commonly referred to as The City of a Thousand Trades, Birmingham has loads to see and do beyond historical sites.

With a colorful arts and music scene, fabulous eateries, diverse shopping, museums by the mile, and so much more, Birmingham will surely keep you entertained and engaged during your upcoming visit.

So, if you’re looking for awesome things to do in Birmingham, take a look at this comprehensive list.

Table of Contents

1. Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum

Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum

The Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum is an astounding place to check out during your visit to Birmingham, Alabama.

The museum entirely encloses a collection of more than 1,200 motorcycles and race cars.

Housing some of the world’s rarest bikes and cars, the museum is a marvel for motorsport enthusiasts.

The breadth of “moving works of art” on display at the museum ensures an awe-inspiring visit for all museum-goers.

Of note, the museum was founded based on one man’s love for speed, a love that was not lost on the museum’s vast array of collections.

The Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum is also considered a living museum in that many of its bikes and cars have been restored to racing condition.

In fact, the museum is even surrounded by a fully-functioning track that is often the sight of races featuring some of the museum’s awesome collection.

With models built in the late 1800s through the present day, there are so many amazing models to see when visiting the museum.

One of the best Birmingham attractions, the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum is a must-see.

Address: 6030 Barber Motorsports Parkway, Birmingham, AL 35094, United States

2. Birmingham Museum of Art

Birmingham Museum of Art

If you’re looking for cool places to visit in Alabama , be sure to check out the Birmingham Museum of Art .

Founded in 1951, this establishment houses one of the most epic art collections in the Southeast.

With more than 20,000 pieces in its collection, you’ll witness greatness at every turn.

With pieces representing countries from all over the world, the museum is a hub for cultural artwork.

Paintings, sculptures, ceramics, decorative arts, drawings, and well beyond are represented as mediums within the museum.

The museum houses pieces from famous artists such as Georgia O’Keeffe, Frank Lloyd Wright, Andy Warhol, and many other iconic names.

Additionally, the museum has a vast collection of local artwork as well.

Laudably, the museum is family-friendly and interactive so small children will even enjoy touring the space.

Finally, the museum is home to an on-site restaurant and an awesome gift shop.

Address: 2000 Reverend Abraham Woods Jr Boulevard, Birmingham, AL 35203, United States

3. Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute is a cultural research center that depicts historical artifacts relevant to the Civil Rights Movements of the 1950s and 1960s.

The museum is a modern space with a vast collection of interesting relics as well as interactive replications of pertinent events and scenarios.

For instance, the museum houses replicas of a segregated city, a Freedom Riders bus, and the jail cell from which Dr. Martin Luther King wrote one of his famous speeches.

These interactive replicas allow visitors to step into the pages of our history books.

Furthermore, the museum is home to an extensive collection of historical archives such as oral histories and original Civil Rights Movement documents.

Some of the museum’s permanent exhibits showcase a human rights gallery, representations of significant movements, a gallery highlighting integral players, and a side-by-side look at the differences experienced by blacks and whites in the deep south.

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Alabama, the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute is highly recommended.

Address: 520 16th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203, United States

4. McWane Science Center

McWane Science Center

Situated in downtown Birmingham, the McWane Science Center is a state-of-the-art science museum that was established in 1998.

If you’re wondering what to do in Birmingham with inquisitive adults and children, this is the place.

Home to an on-site aquarium and an I-Max dome theater, the center is equipped for interactive learning and loads of fun.

Besides these awesome features, there are hundreds of hands-on activities for curious minds to enjoy.

A perfect place to visit today or this weekend, the McWane Science Center has amazing permanent exhibits that teach about dinosaurs, sea monsters, weather cycles, marine biology, nature, and so much more.

Beyond science exhibits, the center also showcases engineering, math, and technology exhibits.

Shark and stingray touch tanks, astounding demonstrations, a magic city, and an art gallery are just a few of the ways your family can enjoy the museum.

One of the coolest things in downtown Birmingham, McWane Science Center is worth a spot on your itinerary.

Address: 200 19th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203, United States

5. Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark

Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark

This National Historic Landmark is by far one of the most interesting places to visit in AL.

Historically, Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark operated as an iron-producing blast furnace beginning in 1882.

Following its closing in 1971, it was preserved and restored for public utilization.

Receiving its National Historic Landmark designation in 1981, Sloss Furnaces later reopened as a museum chronicling the city of Birmingham’s long history.

Notably, the site features two 400-ton blast furnaces as well as nearly 50 other tourable buildings.

Visitors to Sloss Furnaces are welcome to explore the site on self-guided or guided tours.

Along with the tours, narrative placards explicate the space’s rich history.

Visitors will learn about the science, history, and people involved with Sloss Furnaces.

Moreover, an on-site research library allows visitors to immerse themselves in the many ways Sloss Furnaces contributed to local and state history.

If you’re looking to explore a unique slice of Birmingham history, be sure to check out one of the top Birmingham attractions.

Address: 20 32nd St N, Birmingham, AL 35222, United States

Exploring other areas of Alabama? Why not check out some of the things to do in Huntsville, AL ?

6. The Alabama Theater

The Alabama Theater

This beautiful movie palace is one of the best points of interest in Birmingham, Alabama.

Established in 1927, the Alabama Theater seats 2,500 people making it the largest in the local theater district.

With amazing shows running the gamut from live music to classic movies and performing arts displays to special events, there’s no telling what you’ll catch during your visit.

Of note, the theater hosts 150 live events annually welcoming more than 100,000 guests in that time frame.

In addition to the epic shows you’ll catch at the theater, the building itself is a sight to be seen.

In 1998 the entire theater was restored to its original 1920s opulence with sparkling gold embellishments as well as many other dazzling touches.

Furthermore, besides buying show tickets during your trip to Birmingham, the Alabama Theater is also available for private rentals.

A wonderful place to visit with friends and family, show tickets can be purchased for today or this weekend.

Address: 1817 3rd Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203, United States

7. The Market at Pepper Place

The Market at Pepper Place

The Market at Pepper Place is a year-round indoor and outdoor market that purveys locally sourced produce and delicacies.

Opening in 2000, the market was established as a link connecting farmers to Birmingham locals.

Although most of the market is housed beneath nearly 100 interconnected tents, there is also an indoor market that allows vendors to deliver fresh goods to locals all year long.

If you’re looking to enjoy locally sourced foods, a visit to The Market at Pepper Place is one of the best things to see.

Whether visiting Birmingham today or this weekend, this year or next, the market’s diverse offerings change seasonally.

So with each visit, you can enjoy new fruits and vegetables as well as herbs and dairy products.

The market is also home to a bakeshop, local artists, a patisserie, and an eclectic bevy of unique makers.

A wonderful way to spend an afternoon surrounded by Birmingham culture, The Market at Pepper Place is one of the coolest places to go.

Address: 2829 2nd Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35205, United States

8. Rickwood Field

User ₪ ÇP ₪ on Flickr , CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Situated in the heart of Birmingham, Alabama, Rickwood Field is the oldest professional baseball field in the US.

Whether traveling with history buffs or baseball fanatics, a visit to Rickwood Field answers the question of what to see in Birmingham.

Rich in baseball history, the stadium is a wonder to see.

If you’re wondering where to go during your visit to Birmingham, be sure to check out Rickwood Field.

Built in 1910, Rickwood Field is home to the Minor League Baseball team, the Birmingham Barons.

Throughout the baseball season, the stadium is a great place to catch a ball game.

Additionally, Rickwood Field also hosts loads of seasonal events such as the ESPN Classic, reenacted baseball movie scenes, and throwback games to name a few.

Lastly, if the home team isn’t playing during your stay in Birmingham you can still enjoy Rickwood Field with self-guided stadium tours.

One of the best places to see when you’re on vacation in Birmingham, be sure to pay a visit to Rickwood Field.

Address: 1137 2nd Ave W, Birmingham, AL 35204, United States

9. The Birmingham Zoo

The Birmingham Zoo

If you’re looking for stuff to do with kids around Birmingham, make sure to add The Birmingham Zoo to your itinerary.

This amazing zoological park opened in 1955 beginning with a small collection of exotic animals.

Although it was established on a much smaller scale, today the zoo sits on 50 acres of Birmingham parkland.

Exemplifying truly humble beginnings, the zoo opened with a small monkey exhibit, but today the zoo’s menagerie far exceeds its start.

The Birmingham Zoo is home to an alligator swamp, multiple aviaries, a flamingo lagoon, a predator building, a tortoise yard, and a wildlife stage to name a few of its astounding exhibits.

Furthermore, the zoo has many interactive exhibits such as camel rides, an interactive feeding aviary, a sea lion show, and a wildlife show.

Other park facets include a carousel, a burger joint, a gift shop, and the list goes on.

One of many wonderful points of interest in Alabama, The Birmingham Zoo is a must-see.

Address: 2630 Cahaba Rd, Birmingham, AL 35223, United States

10. Kelly Ingram Park

Kelly Ingram Park

This four-acre park located in the heart of Birmingham, Alabama is a lovely place to spend a few hours surrounded by history while engaging in fun outdoor activities.

One of a few free things to do in the area, Kelly Ingram Park is an improved public park housing many insightful sculptures depicting Civil War-era scenes.

Whether visiting the park for a breath of fresh air or to take in the astounding sculptures and historical nods, Kelly Ingram Park deserves a spot on your itinerary.

In the sixties, Kelly Ingram Park was at the center of the Civil Rights Movement making it an apropos site for the historical homages that reside there today.

A central fountain and a commemorative statue of Dr. Martin Luther King reside in the park’s center; a paved, scenic pathway dubbed the “Freedom Walk” is a lovely place to stroll with family and friends.

Lastly, the park hosts many lovely events throughout the year such as festivals, shows, entertainment, and even audio tours.

One of the most unique things to do in Alabama, be sure to pay a visit to Kelly Ingram Park.

Address: 500 17th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203, United States

Visiting other parts of Alabama? Why not check out some of the places to visit in Mobile, AL ?

11. Southern Museum of Flight

205weeman17 , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

If you’re wondering what to do when visiting Birmingham, this civilian aviation museum is a must-see.

Home to nearly 100 aircraft, the exhibits at the museum are awe-inspiring.

As one of the largest aviation museums in the Southeast, Southern Museum of Flight houses exhibits showcasing civilian, military, and probing aircraft as well as memorabilia and interesting aviation artifacts.

Although the admission fee for civilians is nominal, the museum is one of a few free things to do for military personnel.

Of note, the museum encompasses a 75,000-square foot space which ensures that the space is packed full of astounding sights.

The museum’s exhibits include biographical plaques, old war jets, airmen exhibits, Vietnam choppers, and more.

Additionally, there is a vast outdoor space with aircraft displays that includes an A-12 Blackbird.

A perfect place to visit for both history and flight enthusiasts, the Southern Museum of Flight is one of the top tourist attractions in Alabama.

Address: 4343 73rd St N, Birmingham, AL 35206, United States

12. Red Mountain Park

Red Mountain Park

Red Mountain Park is a 1,500-acre urban park central to Birmingham culture.

With tons of opportunities for recreational activities, Red Mountain Park is one of the best places to go to spend time outdoors.

Surrounded by a nearly five-mile portion of the majestic Red Mountain, the backdrop for the park is certainly scenic.

One of the park’s top draws is the historical artifacts on display.

For instance, the park is home to closed mines as well as other industrial relics exemplifying Birmingham’s rich history.

When not exploring the historical artifacts, the park is a great spot to navigate marked hiking trails and explore a snow sensory trail (a much-loved activity by children).

Moreover, the park has an awesome adventure park designed for team-building activities.

Best of all, Red Mountain Park is even home to an adorable dog park so bring your pooch along for the adventure too.

One of the coolest places to visit with your family and your four-legged friends, be sure to visit Red Mountain Park during your stay in Birmingham.

Address: 2011 Frankfurt Dr, Birmingham, AL 35211, United States

13. Avondale Brewing Company

Avondale Brewing Company

Situated in a historic building, once home to an old pharmacy and later a saloon, the Avondale Brewing Company is a great top spot to visit at night.

Essentially three spaces in one, the establishment consists of The Upstairs, The Sour Room, and Cinderella Story.

Each of these three Avondale Brewing spaces has a different vibe; best of all, they’re all under one roof.

The company’s taproom serves up amazing craft libations that you can only get in Birmingham.

In addition to an awesome drink menu, worth the visit in and of itself, the Avondale Brewing Company is also a premier concert venue.

Throughout the year, the venue hosts big names in music so be sure to check out the events calendar before your visit to or near Alabama.

After enjoying craft brews and an epic show, be sure to check out Avondale’s Burger Co. for an excellent bite to eat.

One of the best Birmingham attractions for top adult fun, Avondale Brewing Company deserves a place on your itinerary.

Address: 201 41st St S, Birmingham, AL 35222, United States

14. Alabama Sports Hall of Fame and Museum

Alabama Sports Hall of Fame and Museum

If you’ll be traveling to Birmingham with a sports enthusiast, be sure to plan a trip to the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame and Museum .

This state museum shares and honors the state’s rich athletic history.

Of note, the museum chronicles the men/women of sports, their records, and their contributions to Alabama history.

Established in 1967 and led by a retired Major League Baseball player, the museum has inducted such names as Mike Donahue, Jimmy Hitchcock, Bo Jackson, and many others.

A perfect place to tour for both children and adults, the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame and Museum is one of many Birmingham attractions that you’ve got to check out.

Notably, the nearly 35,000-square-foot museum is home to thousands of sports memorabilia and artifacts.

With one of the vastest collections in the US, Alabama Sports Hall of Fame and Museum is one of the coolest places to visit.

Address: 2150 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd N, Birmingham, AL 35203, United States

15. Birmingham Botanical Gardens

Birmingham Botanical Gardens

This nearly 70-acre outdoor space is a breathtaking sight to behold.

With so many beautiful botanical things to see in one central location, Birmingham Botanical Gardens is a great place to visit with family and friends.

Situated near the foot of the Red Mountains, the gardens’ backdrop also makes for wonderful sightseeing and photography opportunities.

The gardens are open all year long and admission is free for all.

Within the gardens, you can enjoy observing seasonal blooms as you meander lovely pathways.

Surrounded by native woodlands, a majestic mountain range, and tons of colorful flowers and plant life, the Birmingham Botanical Gardens is also a delightful place to enjoy a picnic lunch.

Of note, the establishment is home to dozens of thematic garden collections, including a rose garden, a fern glade, and an iris Ireland garden, among others.

With so many things to do in Birmingham, narrowing down an itinerary might be daunting; however, be sure to add this lovely attraction to your plans.

Address: 2612 Lane Park Rd, Birmingham, AL 35223, United States

Looking for more thrills around Alabama? Why not check out some of the best things to do in Gulf Shores  & some of the best things to do in Montgomery, AL ?

16. Arlington Antebellum Home & Gardens

Arlington Antebellum Home & Gardens

This picturesque attraction is situated in a former plantation house of historical repute.

Surrounded by six acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, the Arlington Antebellum Home & Gardens is one of the loveliest things to do when near Birmingham.

Built in 1845, the plantation house’s aesthetic embraces Greek Revival architecture.

Well-maintained and furnished with period furnishings, the Arlington Antebellum Home & Gardens provides visitors with a step back in history.

While the house serves as a decorative arts museum, the property is a living museum of botanicals.

The garden features a restored garden house, picturesque paths, and views to die for.

Furthermore, the garden hosts seasonal events throughout the year.

If you’re wondering what to do during your visit to Birmingham, you’ll definitely want to check out Arlington Antebellum Home & Gardens.

Address: 331 Cotton Ave SW, Birmingham, AL 35211, United States

17. Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame

Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame

Founded in 1978, the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame is a museum that propels, educates, and generates interest in Jazz-era and -style music.

If you’re looking for interesting historical things to see, the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame delivers on all fronts.

Laudably, the museum honors the pioneers of jazz music through enlightening and educational exhibits.

Some of the exhibits include information and artifacts relevant to jazz demographics, lore, artists, and beyond.

Furthermore, within the museum resides the Carver Performing Arts Theater, one of the most awesome things to do in downtown Birmingham.

The 515-seat, 2,700-square foot theater has staged hundreds of shows since its inception in 1993.

Together, the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame and the Carver Performing Arts Center continue to be a mecca for Jazz music and its rich history.

If you’re wondering what to do in the way of soaking in Alabama’s colorful musical history, be sure to visit the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame.

Address: 1701 4th Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203, United States

18. Vulcan Park and Museum

Vulcan Park and Museum

Vulcan Park and Museum is home to the world’s tallest cast iron statue; it serves as a significant Birmingham landmark.

Of note, the staggering monument depicts the Roman god Vulcan in a whopping 56 feet of glory.

Aptly, the god of fire and forge is armed with ironworking tools synonymous with the Birmingham industry.

Surrounded by spectacular views of the city, the park and museum’s backdrop is just as inviting as the establishment itself.

Within the museum, the most famous exhibit showcases the state’s rich history in bottling soft drinks.

Who knew that Birmingham was home to the most soft-drink brands in all of the US?

Better yet, the museum is jam-packed with interactive history exhibits that retell the stories of The Vulcan and Birmingham in general.

The museum has an inviting gift shop aptly named The Anvil where you can pick up a souvenir or Vulcan collectible.

One of the most interesting places to go around The City of a Thousand Trades.

Address: 1701 Valley View Dr, Birmingham, AL 35209, United States

19. The Summit

Described as a lifestyle center, The Summit is an upscale shopping complex with loads of options for retail therapy.

Built in 1997, the one-million-square-foot center has retailers for every style and taste.

Concerning shopping, The Summit is home to apparel (men/women/children), beauty, health, jewelry, and home decor vendors among a variety of others.

With both big-name brands and local retailers, most anyone will enjoy shopping at The Summit.

In addition to fine shopping, The Summit has tons more to do.

With nearly 20 restaurants within the complex, you can be sure you’ll find a lovely place to dine suitable for any palette.

In fact, The Summit makes for a wonderful date day/night for couples.

Dinner, a movie, shopping, and more are all at your fingertips when visiting The Summit.

With both romantic things to do as well as wholesome family-friendly options, it’s no wonder The Summit is one of many fun things to do in Birmingham.

Address: 214 Summit Blvd #150, Birmingham, AL 35243, United States

20. Virginia Samford Theater

Virginia Samford Theater

This historic arts venue provides Birmingham visitors with the perfect destination for fabulous plays and musicals.

Not far from downtown Birmingham, Virginia Samford Theater is a landmark playhouse that was established in the late 1920s.

A favorite entertainment venue for both locals and visitors, Virginia Samford Theater is a great place to book in advance of your trip to The City of a Thousand Trades.

Booking shows of all genres and for all audience types, the theater is a wonderful place to visit with both friends and family.

In fact, the theater often hosts children’s shows, musicals, dance shows, and even comedies.

If you plan to spend an extended period in AL, you may even consider season tickets to the Virginia Samford Theater.

Serving as a place for local artists and performers to showcase their crafts, the theater is a much-loved Birmingham venue.

One of the most fun things to do in Birmingham, make sure to reserve tickets for a show at Virginia Samford Theater.

Address: 1116 26th St S, Birmingham, AL 35205, United States

Going on a road trip around Alabama? Why not check out some of the fun things to do in Orange Beach ?

21. Railroad Park

Railroad Park

Birmingham’s Railroad Park is a nearly 20-acre green expanse around the city’s downtown area.

Celebrating the city’s industrial and artistic heritage, the park is a great place to experience fun in the great outdoors.

With nearly 600 colorful trees surrounding the park as well as other verdant landscaping, the park’s backdrop is as enjoyable a sight as is the park itself.

Central to the park is a whopping nine-acre open lawn space that is perfect for running, picnicking, ball games, frisbee, sunbathing, and more.

Moreover, Railroad Park has many seating areas built from brick and parts taken from the old train station that used to run through the space.

Additionally, the park has lovely water features including a picturesque lake as well as ponds and streams.

A paved rail train that encircles parts of the park is perfect for running and walking.

Lastly, the park has many convenient amenities such as a ranger station, restrooms, outdoor gym equipment, a skate park, playgrounds, and free parking.

Address: 1600 1st Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233, United States

22. Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve

Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve

Ruffner Mountain is a nearly 1,100-acre nature preserve located in Birmingham’s historic district.

Established in 1977, the preserve is home to incredible wildlife and amazing natural attributes.

A sprawling ecosystem, biodiverse urban forestry, and communities interconnected by the park make Ruffner Mountain a unique place to visit.

Within the park, 14 nature trails bring visitors face to face with wilderness, wildlife, and majestic water features such as a lake and a natural spring.

Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve hosts incredible nature education, eco-arts programs, and amazing opportunities to explore and learn about Alabaman wildlife.

Additional preserve features include a quarry, a picnic pavilion, wetlands, a nature center, a mining site, and scenic overlooks.

With so much fun to be had in one beautiful natural setting, it’s no wonder Ruffner Mountain is one of the most popular things to do in Birmingham.

Address: 1214 81st St S, Birmingham, AL 35206, United States

23. Grand Bohemian Hotel

Grand Bohemian Hotel

Situated near some of Birmingham’s top attractions, Grand Bohemian Hotel is one of Alabama’s best vacation spots .

With a knack for relaxation and over-the-top amenities, the hotel is the perfect resort destination.

Close to the city’s downtown area and many premier attractions, the hotel couples a superb location with excellent accommodations.

Of note, the hotel has a renowned spa, commodious rooms, an onsite art gallery, and other laudable features.

Additionally, Grand Bohemian Hotel is home to an amazing rooftop bar and restaurant that serves spirited drinks, farm-to-table recipes, and an all-around good time.

Further hotel features include an expansive fitness center, an inviting outdoor pool, and even a policy that welcomes pets.

Beautiful decor, exceptional accommodations, walking distance to area hotspots, and a knack for relaxation are just a few of the reasons Grand Bohemian Hotel is one of the most fun places to stay in town.

Address: 2655 Lane Park Rd, Birmingham, AL 35223, United States

24. Mary Charles Doll House

Mary Charles Doll House

With one of the largest and most unique collections in all of AL, the Mary Charles Doll House is a must-see.

Mary Charles Doll House is located just outside Birmingham’s city limits but is definitely worth the short trip.

Originally established as an antique store, this attraction eventually evolved into a haven for unique dolls and doll-lovers.

The Doll House has an insane collection of dolls, accessories, clothes, and more.

Whether you’re just browsing or in the market for something special, Mary Charles Doll House has amazing merchandise to explore.

The Doll House has Madame Alexander dolls, Steiff teddy bears, classic Barbie dolls, American Girl dolls, and antique dolls galore.

In business for more than 40 years, the shop has specialized experience in curating, repairing, and marketing unusual dolls.

If you’re a collector, an enthusiast, or just genuinely interested in checking out a unique local sight, make sure to add Mary Charles Doll House to your itinerary.

Address: 1901 Oxmoor Rd, Homewood, AL 35209, United States

Zydeco ( Ben / flickr )

Situated in the city’s Five Point South District, Zydeco was established in 1989 as a premier live music venue.

If you’re looking for a fun night out with friends, Zydeco is the place to go.

Zydeco’s expansive concert hall hosts weekly music shows of all varieties.

Within Zydeco is Birmingham’s second oldest bar, serving up delicious spirits all night long.

Additionally, Zydeco has great food selections too.

Whether looking to get down on the dance floor in the concert hall, chill out in the establishment’s pub, or get a breath of fresh air at the patio, Zydeco never disappoints.

In addition to headlining musical acts, Zydeco hosts seasonal parties such as a Mardis Gras event, Super Bowl parties, tribute shows, and awesome holiday parties.

Country music, pop music, dance fests, death metal, and beyond can all be enjoyed at Zydeco.

No matter your musical fancy, there’s surely a show you’ll enjoy during your visit to the City of a Thousand Trades.

Address: 2001 15th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35205, United States

26. Legion Field

Cdog91 , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Nicknamed “The Old Gray Lady,” Legion Field is a 71,000-seat sports stadium built in 1927.

Named in honor of the American Legion, Legion Field is home to the University of Alabama’s football team, the UAB Blazers.

Famous for hosting the Iron Bowl, Olympic soccer matches, and the Magic City Classic, the field is steeped in Alabaman history.

If visiting the area, tickets can be purchased seasonally to enjoy a football game or other special events.

If you’re unable to catch a sporting event during your visit to “The Old Gray Lady,” you can certainly enjoy a tour of the history-rich stadium.

Amazing memorials such as limestone sculptures and historical plaques can be appreciated throughout the venue.

What’s more, an ongoing renovation will ensure the field is in tip-top shape when you visit Alabama.

A fun way to spend an afternoon in the sun, a visit to Legion Field is a must when you’re in town.

Address: 400 Graymont Ave W, Birmingham, AL 35204, United States

27. Alabama Adventure & Splash Adventure

If you’re looking for soaking wet fun for the whole family, be sure to plan a day at Alabama Adventure & Splash Adventure .

With more than 25 exciting attractions suitable for all ages, this water park is a great place to spend a hot summer day.

Whether seeking high-speed thrills, relaxing water features, or PG fun for little ones, Alabama Adventure & Splash Adventure has you covered.

With fast slides, splash pads, and a lazy river, there’s truly something for everyone.

Besides the water attractions, the park is packed with awesome amenities and extras.

Cabana rentals, gift shops, shows, and more all await you at this super-fun waterpark.

Furthermore, the park has lots of great dining options such as a pizza place, a candy shop, a pop shop, ice cream vendors, a grill, and a snack shack.

With tons of options for park adventure, breathtaking shows, and lots of great eateries, Alabama Adventure & Splash Adventure is a place the whole family can enjoy.

Address: 4599 Splash Adventure Pkwy, Bessemer, AL 35022, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Birmingham

Whether visiting Birmingham for relaxation, arts/culture, great eats, stupendous shows, majestic natural sights, or beyond, there is tons to do in The City of a Thousand Trades.

A delightful city with a rich industrious heritage, there are insightful and entertaining attractions in all parts of the city.

A legendary music scene, a teeming nightlife, sprawling natural attractions, sports, food, shopping, and more are all waiting for you in Birmingham.

Come by train, plane, or automobile and you’ll arrive at this divine city rife with tourism in no time.

So pack your bags and we’ll see you in Birmingham.

Happy travels.

Birmingham   Travel Guide

Courtesy of SeanPavonePhoto | Getty Images

11 Best Things To Do in Birmingham

Updated Feb. 11, 2021

Once an industrial hub of the South and ground zero for the civil rights movement, Birmingham is now a vibrant and diverse metropolis, known for its wide array of outdoor spaces and golf courses. Catch a bird's-eye view of the city from the iconic Vu

• All Things To Do

Civil Rights District Civil Rights District free

To learn more about Birmingham's role in the civil rights movement, plan a visit to the Civil Rights District. This six-block area in downtown Birmingham encompasses several historic sites, including the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, the 16th Street Baptist Church, Kelly Ingram Park, the A.G. Gaston Gardens and the Fourth Avenue Business District, among other points of interest.

Perhaps the most significant site is Kelly Ingram Park, which played host to civil rights rallies, demonstrations and confrontations in the 1960s, including the Children's Crusade. You can take a self-led walking tour through the park to learn about the notable protesters and the significant incidents of this turbulent time in the city's history, detailed by markers along the Freedom Walk route. The park is also home to the Four Spirits statues, which honor the four African American girls killed in the bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church. To fully experience the walk, you can access a free audio tour from your cell phone by calling 205-307-5455.

Birmingham Railroad Park Birmingham Railroad Park free

Known as "Birmingham's Living Room," the 19-acre Railroad Park is where locals gather for recreational activities, concerts and special events. The park features a lake, jogging trails, skate bowls, an outdoor gym, playgrounds and the partially covered 17th Street Plaza, which offers restrooms and the Railroad Park Dining Car.

Recent travelers said this local favorite is a gorgeous green space. Reviewers commented on the clean restrooms, beautiful gardens, picnic facilities and scenic trails. Parents noted that their kids loved watching the trains go by at the adjacent railroad yard. 

Birmingham Botanical Gardens Birmingham Botanical Gardens free

Spanning more than 65 acres, these gorgeous gardens are known for their diverse plant collections. In fact, there are 30 thematic gardens divided into three categories: Gardens of Collections, Gardens of Nature and Gardens of Culture. You'll also find the only public horticultural library in the United States here. What's more, programs and workshops are available for both children and adults, and the Bruno Vegetable Garden provides food for Birmingham's needy. The gardens also feature several paths for walking and jogging, making it a great spot for both recreation and relaxation.

Recent visitors said a visit to the botanical gardens is a fun and inexpensive way to spend an afternoon outdoors. Many commented on the variety of birds, as well as the diverse landscapes, from Japanese gardens to native woodlands. All agreed that the facility is well-maintained and appreciated its many amenities, including a restaurant, lots of outdoor seating and a gift shop.

Popular Tours

Birmingham Civil Rights Tour- Riding & Walking

(671 reviews)

from $ 70.00

Wild Cave Adventure Tour

(31 reviews)

from $ 125.00

Experience Birmingham - The Historic Highlights

(19 reviews)

from $ 100.00

Birmingham Civil Rights Institute Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute presents the moving story of the city's role in the civil rights movement, focusing not just on the past, but also on the continuing international struggle for human rights through permanent and temporary galleries. Exhibits detail some of the most significant events in Birmingham's history, including the tragic loss of life at the 16th Street Baptist Church during a bombing orchestrated by the Ku Klux Klan.

Most visitors call this museum a moving experience and a wonderful way to learn about the civil rights movement and its impact on our nation. Although the museum is family-friendly, some say the Confrontation Gallery (where visitors hear recorded voices of children and adults – both black and white – sharing sentiments they would only say behind closed doors) is disturbing and very emotional. Many recommend combining a visit to the institute with a walking tour of the downtown Civil Rights District.

Birmingham Museum of Art Birmingham Museum of Art free

Despite its small size, this art museum houses a notable and eclectic collection of Asian, European, Native American and African art, not to mention one of the best collections of Wedgwood in the country (in fact, it houses the most Wedgwood outside of England).

Recent visitors were impressed with the museum's noteworthy collection of Wedgwood, along with the Samuel Kress collection of European art and its Remington works. Reviewers also appreciated the free admission and free parking, and praised the museum's other facilities, including its on-site eatery and gift shop. However, a few noted that the outdoor art installation is somewhat overgrown and neglected.

Red Mountain Park Red Mountain Park free

There's something for everyone at Red Mountain Park, where miners once toiled to extract iron ore from the red soil. The 1,500-acre park features more than 15 miles of trails, two scenic overlooks, three treehouses, an off-leash dog park and adventures from zip lining and climbing to a ropes course.

Many visitors loved the zip line and ropes courses, but bemoaned the poorly marked and confusing trail signs and the lack of proper restrooms (the park does offer portable toilets). Most said the trails – not particularly long or challenging – are more for walkers than hikers, including families with strollers and small children. Pet owners also appreciated the dog park, as well as the plentiful free parking. 

Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail: Oxmoor Valley and Ross Bridge Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail: Oxmoor Valley and Ross Bridge

One of the largest golf course construction projects ever attempted, the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail showcases a collection of public courses throughout the state of Alabama, including two courses in the Birmingham area, all designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. Oxmoor Valley offers three courses: the Ridge with heavy tree cover and big elevation changes, the Valley with scenic lakes throughout and the Short course, which features 18 one-shot holes. The other local course, Ross Bridge, is one of the longest in the world and features two large lakes connected by a stunning waterfall.

Visiting golfers love both Oxmoor Valley and Ross Bridge, although many note that Ross Bridge is not only visually stunning, but also more challenging. Most reviewers complimented the excellent service at both courses and noted that one of the benefits of playing on RTJ courses is that the tee boxes vary to accommodate players from novice to expert. Experienced golfers preferred the diversity at the Ross Bridge course and said that it's in great shape, while some described the Oxmoor Valley course as "tired." Many golfers loved playing in November, when the weather is still fairly warm. 

Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum

If you're a gearhead, you won't want to miss George Barber's collection of motorcycles – the largest in the world, according to Guinness – featuring more than 1,400 bikes from 200 different manufacturers. The museum also houses an extensive selection of Lotus Cars, if you prefer four wheels to two.

Recent visitors called this museum a "world-class facility" and said that even if you're not into motorcycles, this collection is worth seeing. Other reviewers praised the assortment of Lotus Cars and the outdoor track, which hosts the Porsche Sport Driving School. The only gripe among recent visitors concerned the museum's facilities, or lack thereof: museumgoers said they would love to see a cafe or eatery added to the grounds.

The Birmingham Ghost Walk - Hotels Churches and Riots Tour

(116 reviews)

from $ 40.00

Birmingham Area Multi-Attraction Pass

(8 reviews)

from $ 36.00

Birmingham Civil Rights Walk of Freedom Smartphone Audio App Tour

(24 reviews)

from $ 7.75

Vulcan Park and Museum Vulcan Park and Museum

Overlooking the city of Birmingham is a bearded man that pays homage to Vulcan, the Roman god of fire and forge. The largest cast iron statue in the world, Vulcan is a reminder of the city's iron mining roots. Visitors can ascend the Vulcan tower for spectacular, open-air city views or explore the ground-level museum to learn more about Birmingham's history. The park is also home to the city's official visitor center.

Recent visitors enjoyed the local legend surrounding the statue and said the trip up the tower is well worth the ticket. Some reviewers do caution, though, that the open grated floor on the observation deck may be a problem for those with a fear of heights. Most agreed that the museum is interesting, and noted this is a good attraction to visit on Sunday mornings, when most other attractions are closed.

McWane Science Center McWane Science Center

Kids of all ages will enjoy the interactive McWane Science Center. An integral part of the revitalization of downtown Birmingham, the center is located in the historic Loveman's department store building. Hands-on exhibits include the Fox 6 Weather Lab, the High Cycle (a high-wire bicycle that teaches visitors about the laws of gravity), the Itty Bitty Magic City and the Shark and Ray Touch Tank. The center also boasts an Imax theater.

Both parents and grandparents say McWane is a "super fun" place to spend a day with the kids, especially since the center appeals to a variety of age groups. Families that visited said they appreciated the option to purchase Imax theater admission separately and enjoyed the convenience of the on-site food court. However, some reviewers said the exhibits need to be updated more often.

Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame

The art deco Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame is located in the Carver Theatre in the heart of the Civil Rights District. Exhibits honor Alabama jazz greats, including Nat King Cole, Duke Ellington and Lionel Hampton. Beyond its collection of memorabilia and personal effects, the theater also presents shows by local jazz artists and comedians. The theater itself also plays a significant role in the city's civil rights history: it was one of several theaters offering first-run movies to African Americans.

Recent visitors called this small museum "a hidden jewel" and a must-see for jazz fans. However, some were disappointed with its petite size (it spans more than 2,200 square feet). But with an entrance fee of just $2, most travelers say it's an enjoyable stop to see memorabilia, ranging from Ray Charles' piano to Ella Fitzgerald's Neiman Marcus credit card. 

Explore More of Birmingham

Best Hotels

When To Visit

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 28 Best Water Parks in the U.S. for 2024

Holly Johnson|Timothy J. Forster May 8, 2024

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

The 20 Best Things To Do In Birmingham, Alabama

Our travel and culture editor shares her top picks for places that make the Magic City sparkle.

Explore The Culinary Scene

Enjoy the great outdoors, root for the home teams, grab a cold brew, visit favorite venues.

Minus four years down the road in Tuscaloosa at The University of Alabama, I’ve spent my entire life in Birmingham, Alabama. Founded in 1871, Birmingham experienced a meteoric rise in the early 20 th century as the iron and steel industries took off and it became a hotbed for production. Not so long after, the city found itself once making headlines, this time as a major battleground in the Civil Rights Movement.

At a public school about 20 minutes outside of downtown, I learned about Birmingham’s history, but the implications its origins have had on making the city what it is today were largely lost on me. I wrote Birmingham as my return address and claimed it as my hometown, but we may as well have been perfect strangers.

It wasn’t until I graduated college and returned home that Birmingham began to unfold to me. I spent humid summer evenings sweating and sipping beer at local breweries. I took midday walks through the pink muhly grass at Railroad Park in early fall. And I dined at countless restaurants —of both the white tablecloth and picnic bench variety—where I began procuring a list of all the places that now taste like home.

Working for a city magazine gave me a backstage pass to the passion and people behind the city’s renaissance, and when it came time to choose a place for my husband’s residency four years later, Birmingham was the only choice. Sure, we toyed with the idea of venturing out west, but the tug of the Steel City eventually won out. It has continued to anchor me here ever since. Here are my favorite places to spend time in Birmingham, the city I call home.

Birmingham is no newcomer to the national dining scene. It’s received plenty of attention for standouts like Frank Stitt’s James Beard winning Highlands Bar & Grill and Southern institutions like longtime meat-and-three Niki’s West , but there’s much more to Birmingham’s food story than meets the eye.

Try Authentic Southern-Style Barbecue

Courtesy of SAW'S BBQ

In a state full of great barbecue, I always recommend SAW’s Soul Kitchen for melt-in-your-mouth pulled pork and fall-off-the-bone smoked wings, but also the most tender, delicately fried whole okra you’ll find anywhere. If brisket and smoked chicken are more up your alley, head to Miss Myra's Pit Bar B Que , where you'll want to order an extra side of Alabama white sauce and save room for a slice of homemade pie.

Get a Taste of the Music City with Hot Chicken

Courtesy of Eugene's Hot Chicken

One of my go-to spots when I'm craving something delicious but unfussy is Eugene’s Hot Chicken . What started as a popular food truck serving up addicting, crispy, hot fried chicken has picked up steam and now has two locations in Hoover and downtown. Outside of Prince's in Nashville, where the dish supposedly originated, there's nowhere better to try the Southern delicacy.

www.eugeneshotchicken.com , 2268 9th Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203

Have a Patio Po'boy

Courtesy of The Rougaroux

I'm a sucker for al fresco dining nearly any time of year, but something about sitting on The Rougaroux's kitschy front porch and having a crawfish po'boy in springtime feels extra right. The Viet Cajun Seafood Po'boy with Breaux Bridge crawfish, Gulf shrimp, garlic butter, lemongrass, ginger, and chiles on Leidenheimer bread is perfection.

www.rougarouxbhm.com , 817 39th St S, Birmingham, AL

Eat Thai Food at a Gas Station

They say the best things come in small packages, and in this case, the package is both small and a little bit odd. Housed in a converted gas station, Blue Pacific grew from having a small but devoted suburban following to demanding the attention of the entire city. If you can, visit this Thai eatery on a Tuesday or Thursday and order the beef or pork noodle soup special.

www.facebook.com/bluepacificathooverfoodmart , 3219 Lorna Rd, Birmingham, AL 35216

Enjoy a Fancy Dinner Out at Bottega

When I’m looking for a date night spot, few places match Bottega Café’s quality, service, and value. The Southern-Italian menu means you can slurp up a plate of indulgently simple spaghetti carbonara or marvel at the masterpiece of a perfectly cooked pork chop with collards, polenta, and a seasonal fruit relish. Sit at the bar and order one of the best deals in town—half a wood-fired pizza, plus a side salad and a local beer for $15 flat.

bottegarestaurant.com , 2240 Highland Ave, Birmingham, AL 35205

Get Authentic Chicago-Style Pizza

Courtesy of Tortugas Homemade Pizza

Deep-dish pizza is hard to find outside of Chicago, and it can be even harder to get your hands on in the Deep South. At Tortugas Homemade Pizza , the recipes come straight from the Windy City. The Vizcaino family has been feeding the city since 1999, and with their new downtown location across the street from Regions Park, they're delighting new generations of pizza lovers.

www.tortugaspizza.com , 1304 2nd Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233

Check Out the Neighborhood Gin Bar

For post-dinner drinks, I love the charming courtyard at Juniper . The whimsical gin bar in historic Forest Park also has a killer happy hour featuring $7 jasmine gimlets and Spanish-style gin and tonics. If it's a blustery day, opt for a table inside where you can enjoy the gallery walls covered in gold-framed floral paintings and get your picture on their famous velvet swinging couch.

www.juniperbham.com , 3811 Clairmont Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35222

Sample Cocktails from Around the World

Another favorite is Continental Drift , an eclectic cocktail bar in the heart of downtown. Run by two of the city’s favorite bartenders, the bar is known for its rotating menu of cocktails inspired by a country or region around the world.   

www.continentaldriftbham.com , 2201 7th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233

Set Your Sights on Island Time

One of Birmingham's newest additions, Tucana Tiki Bar is exactly the type of place you'll want to go if you're looking for an escape—or just a fun night out. The playful bar is known for creative glassware, cozy corners, and delicious Tiki-style cocktails, including some served for a crowd.

www.tucanatiki.com , 1143 1st Ave S Suite 101, Birmingham, AL 35233

One of the greatest things about Birmingham is it's a four-season city, but temperatures stay relatively mild all year round. That means you'll have plenty of opportunities to go outside and enjoy the beauty of Sweet Home Alabama .

Spend Time in the City's Favorite Park

There’s no place where I feel the heartbeat of the city more than in Railroad Park . This is Birmingham’s backyard, where everyone comes together to celebrate a sunny day, to take a lunchtime stroll, or to attend a free evening yoga class.

railroadpark.org , 1600 1st Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233

Hike to See Waterfalls in a Wooded Nature Preserve

Courtesy City of Hoover

One of Birmingham’s biggest draws is its abundance of parks and preserves. I grew up hiking around the boulder outcroppings in Moss Rock Preserve and still love spending time there today. Several of the trails lead you by burbling brooks and cascading falls.

www.hooveral.org , 617 Preserve Way, Hoover, AL 35226

Go Mountain Biking at Red Mountain Park

Another popular nature preserve, Red Mountain Park is popular for hikers and pet owners (there's even a designated dog park). But the sector of the city that may have been most excited about the 1,500-acre park's 2012 opening was adventure cyclists. The park boasts 16 miles of multi-use trails, lots of which are suitable for beginning mountain bikers and even families.

redmountainpark.org , 2011 Frankfurt Dr, Birmingham, AL 35211

It's no secret that the state of Alabama is crazy about college football. Birmingham is no different, but the town has also made room for other sports to thrive.

See the Minor League Baseball Team

Summer isn’t summer without attending a Birmingham Barons baseball game at Regions Field—especially on a Thursday night when beer is only $2 a tallboy or a Tuesday when hotdogs cost just 50 cents.

www.milb.com , 1401 1st Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233

Visit Protective Stadium

Getty Images

In recent years, Birmingham has upped its sports ante, and I’ve enjoyed watching Legion soccer games, Birmingham Stallion USFL games, and UAB football at the newly built Protective Stadium. I’ve found that cheering on my home team is fun no matter the sport.  

protectivestadium.com , 1020 24th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203

On weekends, you'll find most Birminghamians hanging out at one of the city’s 10-plus breweries, each with their own character and lineup of craft beers.

Visit a Beloved Brewpub

At Back Forty , enjoy sprawling outdoor seating and one of the city’s best burgers. The homegrown craft brewery originated north of the city in Gadsden, Alabama, but was fully embraced by Birminghamians by the time it made its way south in 2018.

www.backfortybeer.com , 3201 1st Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35222

Order a Flight of Special-Edition Brews

Hipster hangout Trim Tab is known for delighting zythophiles with small-batch series like their popular Beach Club fruited sour ales. The downtown taproom regularly hosts parties, complete with DJs, fun merch, and themed releases of innovative brews.

www.trimtabbrewing.com , 2721 5th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233

Hang with Locals in the City's Favorite Beer Garden

In mild weather, there’s no better place to while away an afternoon than at The Garage , a beer garden populated with garden antiques, hanging wisteria, and plenty of locals. Until very recently, the bar only took cash. That didn't stop locals from piling in for a beer and famous Fritz Sandwich, a cold-cut monstrosity featuring every topping they list on their build-your-own sandwich menu.

https://facebook.com/TheGarageBham , 10th Terrace S, Birmingham, AL 35205

If I want to have a quintessential Birmingham day, these spots always fill me with unbridled hometown pride.

Spend Time in Pepper Place

On Saturday mornings, you can usually catch me at Pepper Place , one of the city’s biggest success stories. The commercial revitalization project transformed 350,000 square feet of former warehouses and manufacturing facilities into a vibrant entertainment and retail district. I start my morning with a spin class at local fitness studio Ignite Cycle , then follow the twang of banjo music to Pepper Place Market , a giant farmer’s market that brings farmers, craftspeople, and vendors from across the state to town every Saturday morning.

Catch a Live Show

For a city of its size, Birmingham attracts an impressive lineup of musicians who take time to stop here during their tours. The city's venues are as diverse and wonderful as the acts they bring in. The historic and grand Alabama Theatre and Lyric Theatre give the air of a special night out. Avondale Brewing Company's expansive backyard is ideal for summer shows, and across the street Saturn is the perfect indie venue for more intimate performances.

Meet the City's Mascot

Every first visit to the Magic City should be christened with a visit to the Vulcan Park & Museum . The Roman god of fire and forge pays homage to Birmingham's roots as an iron and steel town, while he watches over the city from atop Red Mountain. Though I've visited our favorite cast-iron mascot countless times, the view from his perch never loses its magic.

visitvulcan.com , 1701 Valley View Dr, Birmingham, AL 35209

Related Articles

Home » Travel Guides » United States » Alabama (AL) » 25 Best Things to Do in Birmingham (AL)

25 Best Things to Do in Birmingham (AL)

Birmingham is the largest city in the state of Alabama and one that played a huge part in the civil rights movements that shook America in the 1960’s, a beautiful city with an interesting history and a host of things to do.

Originally a town that was famous for its steel industry, Birmingham is now a multicultural city that is home to a world class university and some up and coming sports teams.

I’m a local of Birmingham and have traveled the state of Alabama a lot since I was young, first mainly with family but later also often with friends or just on my own. In my opinion Birmingham is definitely one of Alabama’s most vibrant cities.

With so many things to see and do here, I have created this list of what I think are the top things to do in Birmingham:

1. Meet The Animals At Birmingham Zoo

With over half a million visitors every year Birmingham Zoo is one of the cities star attractions, the zoo spans some 122 acres and is home to 230 different species of animals. The zoo has become a leader in animal conservation and home to endangered species from six different continents.

A new section called Trails of Africa has recently opened and focuses on protecting the African elephants. There are various activities that happen at the zoo, my favorites being the feeding of the giraffes and the Sea Lion Splash Show. The zoo caters to all age groups and I really had a memorable day.

If you’re planning to do multiple attractions/sights in a few days I’d recommend taking a look at the Birmingham Area Multi-Attraction Pass , which includes the Zoo.

2. Prepare For A Fright At Sloss Furnaces

Well known as one of Americas haunted attractions are the Sloss Furnaces. Previously a blast furnace between 1882 and 1971, when it was closed it became the only blast furnace in the U.S. to be opened to the public.

It is currently used to hold festivals, educational programs, events, classes, etc… It is also rent out to an outside company that hosts ‘haunted attractions’.

I really enjoyed their self-guided tour but there’s also a a guided tour available (by appointment only). There’s a really scary story of a Mr James ‘Slag’ Wormwood, a foreman on the graveyard shift, but I’m not really sure if he actually existed.

3. View The Collections At Birmingham Museum of Art

More than 26,000 paintings, drawings, prints and decorative arts can be found in the Birmingham Museum of Art .

The artworks date from ancient to modern and show off a wide spectrum of cultures. The museum opened in 1951 and is free to enter with the exception of the occasional special exhibition that may be put on.

The museum has artwork from all continents including the largest collection of Asian art in the Southeast, the exhibition I liked most is ‘Light Play’ which explores the themes Light and Play (who would have guessed). On my last visit I only had about an hour as I had a lunch reservation, but you should really take some more time to explore the museum as this really is one of the best things to do in Birmingham.

4. Learn About Science At The McWane Science Center

The McWane Science Center has one very clear mission statement, “Change lives through science and wonder”. What I really enjoyed during my visit were the hands-on exhibits, like the Shark touch tank.

The center is an excellent place for children to explore and learn new things about science without even realizing they are learning. There are four levels to explore including a touch pool where you can touch the sharks and stingrays, on another floor there is a whole section devoted to dinosaurs which kids of all ages will love.

When you have finished looking around there is an IMAX Cinema to watch the latest movies or a Café to stop for some lunch.

5. Watch Some Racing At Barber Motorsports Park

Set within 740 acres of land is the Barber Motorsports Park, built by George W. Barber. The IndyCar Series Grand Prix of Alabama has been held here since 2010 and people from the across the country make their way here to view the annual spectacle.

Another part of the Park is the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum, there are over 1450 vintage and modern racing cars and motorcycles housed here which is the largest collection of motorcycles in the world. For Lotus race car fans you can also see a huge collection of them as well.

6. Chill Out At Railroad Park

If you are looking for somewhere to relax in Birmingham then I would recommend a trip to Railroad Park. There are 19 acres of space that make up the park with half of it being left as open lawn. There are approximately 600 trees planted here as well as many different types of flower.

A beautiful lake covers 30% of the park and there are little streams to be seen all over the park. If you fancy a run there is a loop around the perimeter that you can jog around, at one point you will find yourself at the top of a hill where you can look down at the city and take in the fantastic views.

In case you’re looking for a delicious lunch or a fresh roasted coffee, I would recommend The Red Cat at Railroad Park . I had their veggie wrap (made of spinach), it had avocado, tomato, cucumber, some onion and more, it was really good!

7. Get Active At Oak Mountain State Park

For those looking to burn some energy a journey to Oak Mountain State Park will see to that, at 9,940 acres it is the largest state park in Alabama and very close to Birmingham.

The most popular activities here are hiking and mountain biking, with over fifty miles of trails you can see why, one of the trails has even made it onto the International Mountain Biking Associations list of EPIC rides.

For those not wanting to hike or cycle you can rent a boat, play basketball, use the golf course and driving range and so much more. As I’m not that into mountain biking, I rented a kayak at Flip Side and had an amazing time, a great way to explore the lake at your own pace.

Related Reading: Most beautiful places to visit in Alabama

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

The Southern Museum of Flight is a 75,000 square foot museum and one of the largest of its kind in Southeast America. The museum was set up to preserve military, civilian and experimental aircraft, right from the early day of flight until modern day.

There are over ninety aircraft at the museum as well as photographs, engines, paintings and artifacts. Whilst at the museum you should take a look at the Alabama Aviation Hall of Fame that has over 65 plaques that show off the greatest of Alabama’s pilots.

9. Watch A Show At The Alabama Theatre

Right in the heart of downtown Birmingham is the The Alabama Theatre, ever since 1927 people have been entertained by the various shows, movies and concerts that have been performed here.

I suggest to check online to see what shows are playing, in case nothing tickles your fancy at the time, a walk down 3rd Avenue North to see the theatre is still worth your time.

10. Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve

Sitting on the slopes of Red Mountain is Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve, originally this land was an iron-ore mine and producer of limestone until it was shut down.

Today it is a 1000 acre nature preserve that you can explore whilst examining the native plants and animals.

The park has over 12 miles of trails that lead over the mountain, these are open to the public and can be used for hiking, running and general enjoyment of the nature around.

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

Founded in 1978 the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame was built to showcase the jazz legends that were born in the state of Alabama, The museum has many legends fighting for position including the likes of Duke Ellington, Nat King Cole, Lionel Hampton and Erskine Hawkins, here you will learn all about these characters as well as looking into the music that shot them to fame.

You can travel through time to where it all began with Clarence “Pinetop” Smith right up to today’s most current jazz performers. The Hall of Fame is open every Tuesday to Saturday all year round. All in all, a great thing to do in Birmingham, AL.

12. Time For Some American Football At Legion Field

Fondly known as “The Old Grey Lady” Legion Field Stadium was constructed in 1927 and has a seating capacity of 21,000. The stadium obtained its name Legion Field in honor of the American Legion.

When the stadium first opened it was not a good day for Birmingham Southern College as they were beat 9-0 by Samford University (the Howard College).

The stadium has famously hosted the Iron Bowl as well as 1996 Olympic soccer.

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

In the 1960’s Kelly Ingram Park was a hotbed of activity, civil rights rallies, demonstrations and confrontations all took place in this four acres section of land. It was right at the heart of the nation’s Civil Rights Movements, the second revolution of America in the struggle that African-American citizens faced in their demands for equality.

There is a mobile phone app you can download that will take you on a journey through the park and give you information about the events that took place here, there are also various sculptures of key individuals involved in the movements that took place.

14. Get Wet At Alabama Adventure & Splash Adventure

Just a couple of minutes outside Birmingham is Alabama Adventure & Splash Adventure, a huge water park that is now family owned and guaranteed to provide hours of fun for all the family.

There are flumes, water coasters, wave machines, splashdowns and many other types of water amusements to keep everyone happy. The park also has other entertainment to keep everyone happy including a Mist-ical Maze and a Wipeout adventure course.

Open all year around the park is great for small or large groups to attend.

Related reading: Best water parks in Alabama

15. Relive History At Alabama Sports Hall of Fame

With over 5,000 sporting artifacts displayed in this huge building the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame has become the benchmark by which other sporting museums are measured.

There are sports men and women from every sport inducted into the hall of fame here including Alabama Legends such as Jack Warner and Ray Scott. There is a very strict induction process that you can learn about whilst at the museum, getting into the hall of fame is not an easy process, only true legends need apply!

16. Admire The View From Red Mountain

Red Mountain is a ridge that divides Shades Valley and Jones Valley. The mountain got its name from the hard Silurian rock that has a rust stained look and the seams of red that also appear.

The mountain was also where the infamous Sloss Furnace was built. In 1970 the Red Mountain Expressway was finally completed after years were spent cutting through the rock, this led to Birmingham being connected with the suburbs in the south and led to much economic growth for the area.

There are various viewpoints on Red Mountain that can be accessed giving you excellent views over the city of Birmingham.

17. Watch Some Baseball At Regions Park

Birmingham has its very only minor league baseball team called the Birmingham Barons, they were originally housed at the Hoover Metropolitan Stadium before reaching their current home at Regions Park. The team is averagely successful in their league and are an affiliate club with the Chicago White Sox.

The stadium itself has a capacity of 8,500 and was opened in April 2013. For those who love their baseball this is an excellent venue to visit and cheer on your local heroes.

18. Let’s Play Ball At Bartow Arena

Bartow Arena is home to the University of Alabama At Birmingham’s male and female basketball teams. Originally knows at the UAB Arena when Gene Bartow retired from coaching a unanimous decision was made to rename the arena after him.

The men’s team have a formidable record of victories at this stadium having won more than 80% of their home games, an all-time percentage of .824, as recent at the 2015/15 season the UAB Blazers won the conference championships and have been as high at the 9th ranked team in the country.

19. Catch A Film At The Sidewalk Moving Picture Festival

Every year people gather from all over the state of Alabama for one weekend at the end of August, they are here for the Sidewalk Moving Picture Festival. Spread over seven locations in the city of Birmingham, it is an opportunity for film makers to showcase their work to the crowds and expose people to films that they would not normally get to see.

The event has been around since 1999 and the popularity of the event has turned it into an annual fixture. If you are looking to come to Birmingham on this weekend I suggest you book your hotel timely as rooms will go very quickly.

20. Check Out Some Live Music at Zydeco

Every now and again it is time to shake off the cobwebs and have a night on the town, why not come and check out Zydeco, an intimate venue that has an array of local as well as touring acts performing on its stage.

There are 13 different types of beer on tap here as well as cocktails and Cajun cuisine. If you do not fancy the music that night head upstairs where this is an outside patio, pool table and some video games to play. The price of entry will change depending on the band that is playing, but there is always a good night to be had here.

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

Shoal Creek is a beautiful Alabaman golf course that is a regular on the PGA Championship, as well as being one of the most beautiful courses in the U.S. The course was designed by Jack Nicklaus and opened in 1977 to the public, the course immediately became a hit and people still come from far and wide to play a round at this legendary golf course.

Shoal Creek has four guest cottages for people to stay for a few days as well as a small 3-par course known as little links, a swimming pool, tennis courts and fishing lake.

22. Visit The Vulcan Statue

Vulcan is the largest cast iron statue in the world today, it is made from more than 100,000 pounds of iron and stands at 56 feet tall.

The statue is of a burly, bare-bottomed, bearded man. The roman god of Fire and forge. The statue stands at the top of Red Mountain overlooking the city of Birmingham and was built as a symbol of the cities iron origins.

The park where the statue sits is a great place that has an interesting museum into the colorful history of this wonderful city.

23. Dine At Highlands Bar and Grill

Winner of countless awards and truly one of Americas greatest restaurants is the Highlands Bar and Grill in Birmingham . Owned by Frank and Pardiss Stitt the restaurant has been open and serving diners for more than thirty years.

The restaurant serves a French inspired southern dinner and offers excellent service and food to all of its visitors. Frank Stitt is not only one of the owners but also the executive chef here and has previously been named the ‘Best Chef in the Southeast’ with accolades like that you are sure to be in the best of hands.

24. Increase Your Education Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute is a large museum and research center sitting in the heart of the city. It was set up to promote understanding and appreciation for the civil rights movements that happened in the past.

In just over twenty years more than two million people have been through the doors of the institute to learn about the history of the movements, the institute still has a hugely active part in city life to this day. There are permanent exhibitions here as well as temporary ones that change on a regular basis.

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

The 16th Street Baptist Church was the first black church ever to be opened in Birmingham, in the 1960’s the church served as the headquarters for the various rallies that were in force at the time. It was believed that Birmingham at that time was the most racist city in America, a thought that was confirmed further when in 1963 the demonstrations resulted in police brutality and retaliation.

Martin Luther King Jr provided leadership at these marches. The face of this church changed forever though when on Sunday September 15th 1963 a bomb exploded killing four girls who were attending Sunday school.

The bomb made the news across the world and sent shockwaves throughout America. More than $300,000 were raised and the damaged church was restored to the site you see today.

25 Best Things to Do in Birmingham (AL):

• Meet The Animals At Birmingham Zoo
• Prepare For A Fright At Sloss Furnaces
• View The Collections At Birmingham Museum of Art
• Learn About Science At The McWane Science Center
• Watch Some Racing At Barber Motorsports Park
• Chill Out At Railroad Park
• Get Active At Oak Mountain State Park
• Go Back In Time At The Southern Museum of Flight
• Watch A Show At The Alabama Theatre
• Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve
• Learn About The Jazz Greats At Alabama Jazz Hall Of Fame
• Time For Some American Football At Legion Field
• Learn The History Of Civil Rights At Kelly Ingram Park
• Get Wet At Alabama Adventure & Splash Adventure
• Relive History At Alabama Sports Hall of Fame
• Admire The View From Red Mountain
• Watch Some Baseball At Regions Park
• Let’s Play Ball At Bartow Arena
• Catch A Film At The Sidewalk Moving Picture Festival
• Check Out Some Live Music at Zydeco
• Have A Round At Shoal Creek Golf and Country Club
• Visit The Vulcan Statue
• Dine At Highlands Bar and Grill
• Increase Your Education Birmingham Civil Rights Institute
• Remember The Bombing Of The 16th Street Baptist Church

• Skip to right header navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to secondary navigation
• Skip to primary sidebar

Discover the best that Southern USA has to offer! Hidden gems, vibrant cities and more!

15 Best Things To Do In Birmingham, Alabama You Shouldn’t Miss

August 2, 2021 //  by  Southern Trippers

If you’re traveling deep into the heart of Dixie, you must check out our list of Best Things To Do In Birmingham Alabama! Whether you’re interested in the history of the civil rights movement or going on a food tour, you can do it all in Birmingham.

Not only is Birmingham significant historically, it also made it on our list of 14 Prettiest Cities in the South, USA , so perhaps you would just enjoy visiting and site seeing the old city of Birmingham.

From walking trails to ghost tours, great views to great food, Birmingham tourist attractions vary in taste and type, so there will be no boredom in this city!

We have places to go in Birmingham on this list, and a couple of places to visit near Birmingham for those who want to really go out into the glorious Alabama nature and explore!

Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

Of all the places to visit in Birmingham, probably the very best known is the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute.

And for good reason, it is one of the best places to visit while you’re there for numerous reasons.

It reminds us of our horrific past which, while heart breaking, is crucial to making sure history does not repeat itself. If Americans forget their history, they will fall into the same pitfalls of cruelty they did before.

Not only does it remind each person of the shortcomings of their ancestors, but there is also so much hope and encouragement there too.

The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute is a place which reminds us and educates us about the African American people who helped make Alabama what it is, and not only that, but those who were brave enough to invision and pursue a world free of the cruel treatment and segregation that they endured.

If you are interested in more Black History, check out our article 16 Interesting Black History Sites in the South, USA !

Civil Rights Bus Tour

The Civil Rights Tour is a very important Birmingham attraction, and it goes hand in hand with the Civil Rights Institute (and since the tour begins right by the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, you can do both, one after another!)

The tour will try and hit all the most significant Civil Rights associated locations, including the place where the Children’s March of 1963 took place, Dynamite Hill, various churches and houses of importance, and more!

This is a fantastic way to learn more about the history of Birmingham and the African Americans who lived there, especially if you don’t know where to start.

Book here: Civil Rights Tour

Birmingham Museum of Art

Here’s to the artists and art enthusiasts out there!

If you’re in the area, don’t miss the Birmingham Museum of Art. A fantastic Birmingham tourist attraction for individuals or the whole family.

There are three stories worth of art and exhibits to explore, and a huge collection of Asian art. In addition to that, they have African art and Native American art to examine.

Whether you favor an eclectic style of art, or perhaps Wedgwood pottery, this museum has a lot to offer!

New to art, or a seasoned critic, there is much for you to see and learn here, and it is well worth your time!

Make sure to check out our list of the best cities and small towns in Alabama for inspiration on where to visit next!

Go on a Food Tour

There are some great options for food tours in Birmingham! Whether you want a brunch food tour or a food tour that offers variety–from an Irish pub to a southern eatery–there are plenty of options to satisfy you palette.

While there are various taste tour companies you can choose from based on your preferences, a good place to start is Eat, Drink, and Ride Food Tour . This will take you by the best 4 to 5 local spots that most visitors miss!

If that tour doesn’t suit your fancy, there are several others to choose from! At Birmingham Taste Tours , you will not only will you get the chance to try an array of cuisines, you also get the opportunity to speak with the chefs, farmers, staff, and artisans who make it all happen.

This is such a fun thing to do in Birmingham, you won’t regret the culinary adventure!

Book here: Eat, Drink, and Ride Food Tour

Walk the Vulcan Trail

If you’d like to get out of the big city and explore nature, check out one of the outdoor activities in Birmingham, Vulcan Trail. This trail in located in Vulcan Park and is a lovely forest path which runs for four miles.

Whether you prefer running, walking, biking, or frolicking, this trail is perfect! The crushed gravel makes for easy travel and a clear path.

In addition, the path is only a portion of the Red Rock Trail System, so if you are looking for longer hiking and more nature, be sure to check that out!

See the Vulcan Statue

If you are up to date on your Roman mythology, you may recognize this name as the forge and fire god. But it may be surprising to you that an American city such as Birmingham built a 56-foot tall cast iron statue of this roman god, the largest in the world!

Well, when you consider Birmingham’s roots, it makes much more sense. Birmingham had an industry of iron and steel, which is why the god of the forge was so apropos to their city.

Not only does it have that explicit meaning, but it also serves a more symbolic purpose, that is, the undying spark of Birmingham’s unconquerable spirit. For these reasons it’s a great Birmingham tourist attraction.

So, if you plan on visiting Birmingham, you must go check out the Vulcan statue, it’s a incredible monument symbolizing the roots and beginnings of this historical city.

Go on a Ghost Tour

Perhaps you like speculating about the supernatural, or maybe you’ve got it all figured out. Either way, you may enjoy a haunting tour through cemeteries, churches, hotels, or areas of past riots.

There are several different tours to choose from, but one place to start is with the Birmingham Ghost Walk – Hotels Churches and Riots Tour .

You can hear stories about murders that took place, and not only have some trouble sleeping soundly, but also learn more about the history of Birmingham.

This is one Birmingham attraction that everyone won’t enjoy; it certainly isn’t for the faint of heart!

If you are a thrill seeker in search of a night of fright, this is the tourist attraction for you.

Book here: The Birmingham Ghost Walk – Hotels Churches and Riots Tour

Railroad Park

In downtown Birmingham you can find the perfect spot for picnicking, walking, riding, exercise, or just enjoying nature.

Railroad Park is made up of 19 acres of beautiful green space, a lake, rivers, and trees. There are walking trails, outdoor gym equipment, a skating area, and plenty of space to play fetch with your dog, throw a ball with your friends, or just enjoy a little meal with your loved ones.

Or maybe you’d like a romantic rendezvous with a lovely view? Then you’ll have to check out the Boxcar Cafe!

In addition to those things, you can join in special events that take place at the park, from a Cajun Cook Off to Symphony in the Summer, there’s plenty to do at this lovely park in Birmingham and such a variety that it can suit everyone, from the jocks to the romantics!

This is definitely one of the best Birmingham attractions, so don’t forget to check it out!

Pizitz Food Hall

When you are looking for a place to take a break from site seeing and chow down, everyone has their differing tastes, and finding a restaurant to suit everyone can be a challenge.

But at the Pizitz Food Hall everyone can be satisfied; it’s the perfect place to go in Birmingham find a bite to eat.

This is a food hall with many different stalls and restaurants and a variety of different ethnic and American cuisines to choose from.

From traditional Israeli food to the classic southern fried chicken, Indian Kati rolls to Hawaiian poké bowls, and much more, Pizitz Food Hall offers visitors the opportunity to try food from many different countries, and all in one place!

Oak Mountain State Park

This is one place to visit near Birmingham, and it’s something you definitely don’t want to miss!

Oak Mountain State Park is located about 20 miles south of Birmingham, but it is absolutely worth the drive. It is also the largest of the state parks in Alabama, boasting of 9,940 acres.

There are many activities to enjoy at this park, varying from trails and swimming for those wishing to relax, to cable wake boarding and mountain biking for the more adventurous!

Geocaching and discovering a waterfall are also activities you can enjoy at this park.

In fact, there are so many wonderful things to do in Oak Mountain State Park that you might even want to stay a night or two, then make you way back up to Birmingham.

Sloss Furnaces

If you’re more interested in the history oriented parts of Birmingham, you will be glad to know that there is a historic national landmark you can explore while you’re visiting!

Sloss Furnaces was of great economic importance in the early days of Birmingham (and by “early,” we mean the late 1800’s!).

It is now linked to the Railroad Park by a path called the Rotary Trail. You can explore the furnaces on your own, or arrange for a guided tour and get to know all about the importance and the history from a tour guide highly educated on the subject.

This is also a fantastic place for photography, whether professional or amateur.

This is a super cool place to go in Birmingham, and you don’t want to miss out on the experience!

Explore the Red Rock Trail System

The Red Rock Trail System is a wonderful outdoor activity in Birmingham, and whether you want to run, walk, or bike, this is the place to go!

It is composed on 125 miles of trails, and connects various parks, sidewalks, and bike lanes. This trail system makes it’s way throughout Jefferson County, but the majority of it is in Birmingham.

Railroad Park is also apart of the Red Rock Trail System, so if you are feeling super outdoorsy one day, perhaps you’d like to have an adventure and explore the trail system and the Rotary Trail!

This is a fun way to get to see the city, and a great thing to do with the kids to get their energy out! But whether you’re with the family or solo, with a group of friends or just with someone special, this is a great way to explore Birmingham and get a feel for the place.

See a Show at the Alabama Theatre

This historical theatre was built in 1927, and is still in use today!

The theatre is used for plays, musicals, and special events. So whether you want to feel like the hight of sophistication and watch a performance there, or make it the center for you special day, the Alabama Theatre will wow you with it’s elegance and majesty.

There are even concerts there, and occasionally movies.

This is one of the best places to visit in Birmingham, not only for it’s historical significance, but also for itself. It’s an incredible building and you won’t regret your visit!

McWane Science Center

This one is probably the best thing to do in Birmingham with kids.

McWane Science Center is interactive on a high level, and sure you keep your children’s attention. They have created a place where children can learn through hands on experience and explore the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

McWane aims to inspire children with curiosity and a desire to learn about the world around them.

So, whether you’re young or old, STEM oriented or just along for the ride, the McWane Science Center is a great place to visit, and even if it isn’t your cup of tea, the kids will thank you!

Birmingham Botanical Gardens

For all the nature lovers, beauty lovers, and flower lovers out there, the Birmingham Botanical Gardens are one of the best outdoor activities in Birmingham!

This place is INCREDIBLE. From gardens, to a gift shop, to a cafe, and a library, this place seems to have it all. Not only does it have all that, but you could spend hours and hours looking at all their beautiful flowers.

Perhaps your taste is more appreciative of the elegantly sophisticated, then you would enjoy visiting the Formal Garden or Hill Garden. Prefer a more rural beauty? Take a walk over to Hulsey Woods or Hess Camellia Garden. They even have a Japanese inspired garden.

Take your pick, it’s all stunning! You can arrange for a tour, or explore for yourself. There are photography rules in place to make sure that all visitors have a good experience while at the gardens, but you can still take some gorgeous pictures while following the rules!

Whichever garden suits your fancy, it will be worth it. There are so many flowers and their website even contains a neat list letting you know which flowers are in bloom when!

Birmingham, Alabama Top Ten Tourist Attractions

Fun and interesting things to see and do in "The Magic City"

Birmingham, with a population of over 1.2 million people, is Alabama's largest city, and by extension, offers an impressive array of activities for visitors with a variety of interests. Whether you enjoy fine arts or nature, motorsports or history (or all of the above), Birmingham has something for you.

Vulcan Park and Museum

TripSavvy / Jackson Vance

This massive likeness of the God of Fire is the world's largest cast iron statue, weighing 50 tons and standing at 56 feet tall. Vulcan looms over Birmingham from the top of Red Mountain, and visitors can enjoy the same view, as well as a small museum that focuses on the history of Birmingham and the story of the iron industry in the region. The museum also houses a Birmingham visitor's center, so make it one of your first stops in the city.

Additional Information: Vulcan Park and Museum Website

Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

This interpretive museum and research center, located across the street from the 16th Street Baptist Church (known for the horrific 1963 bombing that killed four young girls) memorializes the heroes and she-roes of the Civil Rights Movement, and the ongoing history of human rights in the United States. The museum, which is part of the Smithsonian museum group and meets the highest curatorial standards, displays a variety of informative and powerful permanent exhibits as well as traveling exhibitions, lectures, film screenings, children's events, and more. The subject matter may be a bit intense for the youngest children, but it is appropriate for any child in later elementary school and up. The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute is a Birmingham must-visit.

Additional Information: Birmingham Civil Rights Institute Website

Birmingham Zoo

 TripSavvy / Jackson Vance

The Birmingham Zoo is Alabama's most visited attraction, and it makes for a nice long afternoon stop, especially for families with kids. The main attraction is the menagerie of over 750 animals, including giraffes, gorillas, rhinos, tigers, hippos, and lions. The zoo also features a playground, a carousel, a train, a cafe, and a splash area in the summer, so remember to bring along a change of clothes.

Additional Information: The Birmingham Zoo Website

Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark

Iron production was Birmingham's primary industry for its first century as a city, and Sloss Furnaces are being preserved as a monument and museum of the local iron industry. These former blast furnaces, which once produced pig iron, are the only blast furnaces in the United States that are being federally preserved, and the majority of the site is open for public touring. If you like history or science, this is a good stopover. There are also rumors of ghosts afoot, so if that is your interest, be on the lookout.

Additional Information: Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark

Alabama Symphony Orchestra

The Alabama Symphony Orchestra (ASO) is one of the South's largest and most respected symphonies. Their schedule of performances is packed year-round with everything from masterworks to pops, performed by the full symphony, complete with chorus, and any number of smaller chamber groups, chorales, and other smaller performance ensembles. A special series for children is also part of the symphony's offerings. Worth noting is the free Symphony in the Summer Concert Series, held in Railroad Park each summer. It is a favorite among locals, for good reason.

Location: Various locations in addition to the Alys Robinson Stephens Performing Arts Center, 1200 10th Avenue South Telephone: 205-975-2787 (Box Office Information) Additional Information: Alabama Symphony Orchestra Website

Birmingham Botanical Gardens

With 67 sprawling acres of horticultural beauty, the Birmingham Botanical Gardens are one of the city's loveliest attractions. Featuring over 12,000 different types of plants arranged in over two dozen unique gardens, as well as outdoor sculpture, a children's garden, and miles of walking paths, the gardens are a beautiful place to spend part of a day. And the best part: touring the gardens is absolutely free to visitors.

Additional Information: Birmingham Botanical Gardens Website

Birmingham Museum of Art

If the fine arts interest you, the extensive collections of the Birmingham Museum of Art will delight you (as will the free general museum admission). Of particular note is the world-renowned Asian art collection, as well as the Kress Collection of Renaissance and Baroque European art. The museum's African, Native American, and Pre-Columbian collections are also wonderful, as are the European and American art collections, and the rotating exhibits are well-curated and consistently excellent. Admission may be charged for special exhibitions. Additional Information: Birmingham Museum of Art Website

McWane Science Center

This hands-on museum makes science fun and accessible for children of all ages. Four floors of exhibits get kids digging for dinosaur bones, petting stingrays, forming giant bubbles, playing in the giant water table, crawling through a giant scale model of a bass, dancing on the giant floor piano, and generally having a great time while learning. The McWane Science Center also features an IMAX Dome Theater; IMAX tickets are separate from admission tickets.

Additional Information: McWane Science Center Website

Arlington Antebellum Home and Gardens

Though this Greek Revival plantation home is a short diversion, it is a worthwhile one, particularly if you are interested in Civil War era history or the decorative arts. The house, which dates back to 1845, is older than the city itself, and the collections of fine household items (including furniture, silver, and ceramics) are presented beautifully, as are the manicured gardens. The staff is knowledgeable about the history of the house and the city that arose around it over 160 years. Docent-led tours may be available if requested in advance.

Telephone: 205-780-5656

Barber Motorsports Park and Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum

Barber Motorsports Park features a 16-turn road course, used by Grand-Am Racing Series and AMA Superbike, as well as other exciting racing events. The track is also home to several schools of racing, including the Porsche Driving Experience. The other big attraction on the site is the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum, which houses over 1200 vintage and modern motorcycles, the oldest of which dates back to 1902, as well as an extensive collection of cars, which includes 43 exceptionally rare Lotus race cars, among other impressive models.

Location: Off I-20 at Exit 140 Leeds, Alabama, east of downtown Birmingham Telephone: (Park Ticket Office) 877-332-7804 Telephone: (Museum) 205-699-7275 Additional Information: Barber Motorsports Park Website Additional Information: Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum Website

More Birmingham, Alabama Travel Planning

• Birmingham, Alabama Hotels - Rates, Reviews and Reservations
• Alabama Airports
• Birmingham, Alabama Mileage and Estimated Driving Time
• Typical Birmingham, Alabama Weather - Month-by-Month
• Alabama Food Trails (including the Taste of the Magic City Trail featuring six stops in Birmingham)
• The Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail
• Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau Website
• Birmingham IN Guide App

About Megan Romer: Megan works as a new media strategies consultant and staff writer for various organizations. She is the guide for New Orleans Travel and the former guide for World Music. You can learn more about Megan on her Twitter and LinkedIn pages.

The 10 Best Museums in Birmingham, Alabama

12 Best Parks in Birmingham, Alabama

Top 13 Things to Do in Birmingham, Alabama

48 Hours in Birmingham: The Perfect Itinerary

Your Trip to Birmingham: The Complete Guide

Getting Around Birmingham: Guide to Public Transportation

12 Best Hotels in Birmingham, Alabama

Best Time to Visit Birmingham, Alabama

The Top 10 Things to Do in Birmingham, England

25 Best Free Things to Do in the United Kingdom

9 National Park Sites Tied to Black History

San Diego’s Balboa Park: The Complete Guide

The 12 Best Day Trips From Atlanta

20 Best Things to Do in Washington, D.C.

The Top 12 Day Trips From Birmingham

The 27 Best Things To Do in Miami

24 Best Things To Do In Birmingham, Alabama (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: January 27, 2024

Trying to find great activities and attractions in The Magic City? Our guide to the best things to do in Birmingham, Alabama is all you need to plan the perfect trip!

Birmingham, Alabama, is a city with a rich history and a dynamic present, situated in the heart of the Southern United States. Known as the “Magic City,” Birmingham rose to prominence in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a hub for iron and steel production, fueled by the region’s abundant natural resources.

Today, the city reflects a vibrant blend of its industrial past and a modern, diverse community. Visitors to Birmingham can explore its cultural and historical landmarks, such as the Civil Rights District which is a National Historic Landmark. Home to the 16th Street Baptist Church and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, which commemorate the pivotal role the city played in the Civil Rights Movement.

Birmingham’s cultural scene is also thriving, with a mix of museums, theaters, and music venues that showcase the city’s artistic spirit. The Alabama Theatre, the Birmingham Museum of Art, and the Southern Museum of Flight are just a few of the attractions contributing to Birmingham’s cultural tapestry.

So if you’re looking for the best things to do in Birmingham, AL, there are so many options to choose from! We’ve narrowed it down to the 24 best activities and attractions in the Magic City!

Table of Contents

1. Dive into the city’s history at the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

2. feast at pizitz food hall, 3. admire art in the city center at the birmingham museum of art, 4. check out the barber vintage motorsports museum, 5. wander through the birmingham botanical gardens, 6. visit the birmingham zoo, 7. laugh it up at stardome comedy club, 8. explore railroad park, 9. walk through the city’s rich history in kelly ingram park, 10. go bar-hopping in downtown, 11. broaden your mind at mcwane science center, 12. catch a baseball game, 13. explore red mountain park, 14. learn about music history at the alabama jazz hall of fame, 15. go on a walking tour of the civil rights district, 16. explore the outdoors in oak mountain state park, 17. catch a show at the alabama theater, 18. see the iconic vulcan statue at vulcan park and museum, 19. visit the southern museum of flight, 20. see waterfalls at moss rock preserve, 21. visit the negro southern league museum, 22. check out sloss furnaces park, 23. go for a hiking adventure at ruffner mountain, 24. bring the pets to good dog park and bar, best luxury accommodation in birmingham, al – the kelly birmingham, best mid-range accommodation in birmingham, al – hampton inn & suites, best budget accommodation in birmingham, al – best western carlton suites, 24 best things to do in birmingham, alabama.

From strolling around the Birmingham Botanical Gardens to catching a show at the historic Alabama Theater, here are the best things to do in Birmingham, AL.

Though you don’t need a car for getting around the Magic City, it does give you more flexibility during your travels. We recommend renting a car for your stay in Birmingham, Alabama!

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute is a renowned cultural and educational institution in Birmingham, Alabama, dedicated to preserving and promoting the history of the American Civil Rights Movement.

Established in 1992, the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute stands as a testament to the struggles and triumphs of those who fought for racial equality during a pivotal era in American history. The institute is housed in a striking building that serves as a symbolic representation of the movement’s endurance and resilience.

At the heart of the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute is its comprehensive and thought-provoking exhibits, which chronicle the events, individuals, and movements that shaped the Civil Rights Movement.

Visitors can explore immersive displays that depict the challenges faced by African Americans in their quest for civil rights, including the infamous Birmingham campaign of 1963 and the impact of landmark events like the March on Washington.

The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute also engages the public through educational programs, workshops, and events that encourage dialogue and reflection on issues related to civil and human rights.

Through its commitment to fostering understanding and empathy, the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute plays a vital role in ensuring that the lessons of the past continue to resonate in the present for locals and visitors in Birmingham, Alabama.

Food lovers have to take themselves on a walking tour of Pizitz Food Hall in downtown Birmingham, Alabama! This culinary haven encapsulates the city’s diverse and evolving food scene.

Housed in the historic Pizitz building, the food hall boasts a vibrant atmosphere with an array of eateries showcasing an eclectic mix of global cuisines. From artisanal pizzas and gourmet tacos to Korean-inspired bowls and Southern comfort classics, Pizitz Food Hall offers a gastronomic journey for every palate.

The communal seating, modern decor, and the bustling energy of chefs at work create a lively and inclusive environment, inviting locals and visitors alike to savor a delightful culinary adventure in the heart of Birmingham.

Heading south after Birmingham? Check out the Florida Panhandle with a visit to Destin !

Another highlight of downtown Birmingham, AL is the Birmingham Museum of Art . This cultural gem is celebrated for its rich and diverse collection that spans thousands of years of artistic history.

Established in 1951, the art museum has grown to become one of the Southeast’s premier art institutions, attracting visitors with its impressive array of paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, and more. The museum’s collection is particularly noted for its strengths in European, American, Asian, African, and modern and contemporary art.

The Birmingham Museum of Art occupies a modern and expansive facility that serves as a dynamic space for both contemplation and engagement. The museum not only houses its permanent collection but also hosts rotating exhibitions, bringing in works from renowned artists and emerging talents.

Educational initiatives, family-friendly events, and community outreach programs further enhance the museum’s role as a cultural hub, making art accessible and enjoyable for people of all ages and backgrounds.

As a vital cultural institution and art museum, the Birmingham Museum of Art inspires a deeper connection to the arts within the community and is one of the best things to do in Birmingham, AL.

Founded by George Barber, a successful businessman and passionate collector, the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum opened its doors in 1995 and has since become one of the world’s most extensive collections of two-wheeled and four-wheeled racing machines.

Housed on the stunning grounds of the Barber Motorsports Park, the museum is not only a treasure trove for those with a deep appreciation for the history of motorsports but also a testament to Barber’s dedication to preserving and showcasing the evolution of these iconic vehicles.

Boasting over 1,600 motorcycles and race cars, the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum is a visual feast for enthusiasts, with exhibits that showcase the evolution of motorized transportation. The collection spans a wide range of eras and styles, from vintage motorcycles of the early 20th century to iconic race cars from various disciplines.

The museum’s design itself is a work of art, with a layout that allows visitors to meander through the history of motorsports in a visually stunning and immersive environment. Anyone with a passion for technology and innovation will have a wonderful time exploring the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum.

Located in the heart of Birmingham, Alabama, the Birmingham Botanical Gardens are a beloved destination for nature enthusiasts, families, and anyone seeking respite in a serene environment.

The gardens showcase an impressive variety of plant collections, including roses, herbs, tropical plants, and native southeastern flora, providing visitors with a visually stunning and educational experience.

Comprising over 12,000 different plants, the Birmingham Botanical Gardens not only serves as a picturesque retreat but also as an educational resource for horticulture and environmental awareness.

The gardens host a range of educational programs, workshops, and events that cater to visitors of all ages, fostering an appreciation for the diverse world of plants and their ecological importance.

With features like the Japanese Gardens, the Southern Living Garden, and the largest public horticulture library in the southeastern United States, the Birmingham Botanical Gardens are a fun place to spend a day in the city.

Heading further north into Tennessee? Check out these fun things to do in Nashville !

Another one of the most fun things to do in Birmingham, AL is spend a day at the Birmingham Zoo . This captivating destination offers a thrilling and educational experience for visitors of all ages. The zoo has evolved into a modern facility with a mission to inspire passion for the natural world and promote conservation efforts.

The Birmingham Zoo is home to over 800 animals representing species from around the globe, including endangered and exotic animals like lions, giraffes, elephants, and endangered species such as the red panda.

The zoo’s commitment to animal welfare and conservation is evident in its various programs and initiatives aimed at raising awareness about the importance of preserving biodiversity.

Beyond its diverse array of animal exhibits, the Birmingham Zoo provides a dynamic and engaging atmosphere for learning. It offers educational programs, wildlife shows, and interactive experiences designed to enrich visitors’ understanding of the animal kingdom and the importance of environmental stewardship.

The Hugh Kaul Children’s Zoo within the Birmingham Zoo is a particularly popular attraction, offering hands-on exhibits and play areas that make the learning experience both enjoyable and memorable for young visitors.

With its dedication to wildlife conservation, education, and family-friendly entertainment, the Birmingham Zoo is the perfect place for a day of family fun.

Whether you want a date night, a hilarious time with friends, or a family outing, head to Stardome Comedy Club in Birmingham, Alabama. The iconic venue is a premier destination for laughter and entertainment, hosting some of the best comedians in the industry.

The club, established in 1983, offers a unique blend of stand-up comedy, delicious food, and a vibrant atmosphere. With a lineup that features both emerging talents and seasoned comedians, Stardome provides audiences with an unforgettable night of humor.

The club’s intimate setting and attentive service create a welcoming space for patrons to unwind, enjoy a meal, and share in the joy of laughter, making Stardome Comedy Club a beloved fixture in Birmingham’s entertainment scene.

Railroad Park, located in downtown Birmingham, Alabama, has transformed a former industrial space into a dynamic and bustling recreational area. The park spans 19 acres and is situated along the historic railroad lines that played a crucial role in Birmingham’s industrial past.

Today, Railroad Park serves as a central hub for community gatherings, outdoor activities, and cultural events. It has earned the nickname, “Birmingham’s Living Room” thanks to its special place in the hearts of locals.

Its thoughtful design incorporates walking and jogging trails, a lake, playgrounds, and green spaces, providing residents and visitors with a welcoming environment to relax, exercise, and connect with nature in the heart of the city center.

The success of Railroad Park lies not only in its scenic beauty but also in its role as a catalyst for urban revitalization. Railroad Park Foundation has played a pivotal role in the ongoing transformation of downtown Birmingham, attracting new businesses, residents, and visitors to the area.

Its central location and thoughtful programming, including concerts, festivals, and fitness classes, make it a popular destination for people of all ages and backgrounds.

One of the most fun things to do in the city center is to spend the day exploring the park or attend an event hosted by the Railroad Park Foundation!

Read next: 18 Best Day Trips From Nashville

One of the best historic sites in Birmingham, Alabama is Kelly Ingram Park . Located in the heart of downtown Birmingham, Alabama, Kelly Ingram Park holds profound historical significance as a central site for civil rights protests during the 1960s.

The park, named after Bishop Henry N. Kelly served as a focal point for the Birmingham Civil Rights Movement and witnessed some of the most pivotal moments in the struggle for racial equality.

Today, Kelly Ingram Park stands as a powerful memorial and testament to the resilience of those who fought against segregation and injustice.

The “Four Spirits” sculpture in the park commemorates the lives of four young girls who lost their lives in the 1963 bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church, a tragic event that galvanized the civil rights movement.

Visitors can also explore exhibits such as the “Foot Soldiers” sculpture, which depicts the brave individuals who participated in protests, and the “Freedom Walk,” a pathway marked with significant events and quotes from the era.

Kelly Ingram Park serves as both a contemplative space for reflection and a living memorial that educates future generations about the struggles and sacrifices made to advance civil rights. Kelly Ingram Park remains a symbol of courage and resilience, inviting visitors to engage with the complex history of the Civil Rights Movement and the ongoing pursuit of justice and equality.

Embarking on a bar-hopping adventure in downtown Birmingham, AL, is a fun way to kick off an evening in the city. Start the evening at one of the trendy rooftop bars, such as The Roof at The Redmont, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline while sipping on craft cocktails.

As the night progresses, venture into the historic and lively Five Points South district, home to a myriad of pubs, lounges, and live music venues.

Iconic spots like The J. Clyde, known for its extensive craft beer selection, or The Garage Café with its quirky atmosphere, provide an authentic taste of Birmingham’s unique bar culture.

Paramount Bar in Birmingham is another chic and vibrant establishment, known for its stylish decor, craft cocktails, and lively atmosphere. Or if you’re looking to eat while you drink, head to Highlands Bar and Grill. This culinary icon is celebrated for its award-winning Southern-inspired cuisine, upscale ambiance, and commitment to showcasing the best of Alabama’s culinary heritage.

Cap off the night by immersing yourself in the energy of Adios Cocktail Bar, a cozy venue known for classic cocktails and inventive drinks.

Whether you’re drawn to craft beers, fancy cocktails, or live music scenes, downtown Birmingham’s eclectic mix of bars ensures a memorable night of exploration and enjoyment in the heart of this vibrant Southern city.

The McWane Science Center is a premier science and education facility that captivates visitors with its interactive exhibits and engaging educational programs.

Named after John W. McWane, a prominent Birmingham industrialist, and philanthropist, the McWane Science Center combines hands-on exhibits, live demonstrations, and immersive experiences to make science and technology accessible and exciting.

With multiple floors of interactive displays covering topics ranging from physics and astronomy to biology and environmental science, the center encourages curiosity and exploration in a fun and educational setting.

The McWane Science Center’s commitment to fostering scientific curiosity extends beyond its exhibits, as it hosts educational programs, workshops, and live science demonstrations. The facility includes an IMAX Dome Theater, providing an additional dimension to science education through captivating films on a variety of scientific subjects.

The McWane Science Center plays a vital role in promoting STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) education in the Birmingham community, inspiring a love for learning and a deeper understanding of the world.

With its innovative approach to science education and its emphasis on hands-on exploration, the McWane Science Center stands as a beacon of intellectual curiosity and discovery.

Heading further east into Georgia? Check out our 3 Days In Atlanta Itinerary .

If you’re looking for a day of great fun in the Magic City, catch a Birmingham Barons baseball game! A vibrant energy fills the air at Birmingham’s baseball stadium as fans gather under the Southern sun for an eagerly anticipated game.

The iconic sight of the historic Rickwood Field or the modern Regions Field adds to the charm of the experience, providing a backdrop that blends the city’s rich baseball heritage with the thrill of the game.

Whether it’s a Minor League matchup or a community event, the baseball culture in Birmingham captures the essence of Americana, bringing together families, friends, and fans to revel in the timeless joy of America’s favorite pastime.

Red Mountain Park in Birmingham, AL is a sprawling natural haven that offers a diverse range of outdoor activities, making it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.

Red Mountain Park provides an extensive network of hiking trails that wind through lush forests, open meadows, and historic mining sites, offering outdoor enthusiasts a chance to connect with nature while exploring the park’s scenic landscapes.

One of the distinctive features of Red Mountain Park is the preservation of its historical and industrial heritage. The park incorporates remnants of the iron ore mining operations that once thrived in the area, adding an educational dimension to the outdoor experience.

Visitors can explore artifacts, old mine entrances, and the iconic Red Mountain Iron Ore Mine, gaining insights into the region’s industrial past. Beyond its natural beauty, Red Mountain Park serves as a community gathering space, hosting events, festivals, and educational programs.

This is a fun place to enjoy some nature and greenery near the city center, whether you want to go for a bike ride, have a picnic lunch in the forest, or just escape the hustle and bustle.

For music lovers, one of the best things to do in Birmingham, AL is check out the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame . Established in 1978, the Hall of Fame is housed in the historic Carver Theatre, a venue with its own storied past in the African-American community.

The museum showcases a diverse collection of memorabilia, photographs, and exhibits dedicated to iconic jazz figures with ties to Alabama, including legends like W.C. Handy, Nat King Cole, and Erskine Hawkins.

The Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame serves as a vibrant cultural hub, preserving and promoting the legacy of these influential musicians while educating visitors about the historical and artistic impact of jazz.

Visitors to the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame can explore interactive displays, multimedia presentations, and archival materials that trace the evolution of jazz and its deep roots in Alabama.

The museum also hosts live performances, educational programs, and community events that celebrate the enduring influence of jazz on American music.

By recognizing and honoring the achievements of Alabama’s jazz musicians, the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame contributes to the broader narrative of jazz history and ensures that the cultural significance of these artists continues to resonate with audiences of all ages.

Read next: The 16 Best Day Trips From Atlanta

Expand your exploration of the Civil Rights Era with a walking tour of the Civil Rights District . This historic and symbolic area played a pivotal role in the American Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s, and it’s one of the most important places in the city.

Comprising several key landmarks, this district serves as a poignant reminder of the struggles and triumphs of those who fought for racial equality.

One of the central elements of the Civil Rights District is the 16th Street Baptist Church, which tragically became the target of a bombing in 1963. The 16th Street Baptist Church has since become a memorial and a powerful symbol of the sacrifices made in the quest for civil rights.

The neighboring Kelly Ingram Park, with its striking sculptures and memorials, further enhances the district’s significance by commemorating the courage of the individuals who participated in protests and demonstrations during that turbulent period.

The district invites visitors to embark on a poignant journey through history, exploring the struggles and achievements of the movement through interactive exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia presentations.

As a designated National Historic Landmark, the Civil Rights District in Birmingham is a must-visit destination for those seeking to understand and honor this transformative chapter in American history.

Download a civil rights audio walking tour so you can make the most of your time on the Civil Rights Trail in Birmingham, AL.

Just south of Birmingham, Alabama, is the state’s largest state park, Oak Mountain State Park . Spanning over 9,900 acres, this beautiful area offers a diverse range of outdoor recreational activities.

Oak Mountain State Park features over 50 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails, providing opportunities for visitors to explore its varied landscapes, including dense forests, scenic lakes, and rolling hills. Whether you want to go mountain biking or take on a leisurely stroll, this park is full of fun things to do.

In addition to its extensive trail system, Oak Mountain State Park offers a host of recreational facilities, including a golf course, fishing lakes, and a beach area along Double Oak Lake.

The park’s nature center provides educational programs and interactive exhibits that highlight the local flora and fauna, enriching the visitor experience with insights into the diverse ecosystems within the park.

With campgrounds, cabins, and picnic areas, Oak Mountain State Park invites visitors to immerse themselves in the great outdoors and enjoy a wide range of activities, making it a popular destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure in a natural setting.

The Alabama Theater , located in downtown Birmingham, is a historic and iconic venue that has been enchanting audiences since its grand opening in 1927.

Designed by the renowned architect David O. Whilldin, the theater is a stunning example of Spanish-Moorish architecture, featuring intricate detailing, opulent decor, and a majestic Wurlitzer organ.

Originally built as a movie palace, the Alabama Theatre has evolved into a cultural hub that hosts a variety of events, including film screenings, live performances, concerts, and community gatherings. Its historic charm and exceptional acoustics have made it a cherished landmark in the city, earning it a spot on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Alabama Theatre’s interior is a visual feast, with its grand chandeliers, ornate plasterwork, and a ceiling that mimics a starlit sky. The theater’s Mighty Wurlitzer organ, one of the few remaining of its kind in the world, adds to the venue’s allure, captivating audiences with its powerful and evocative sound.

Today, the Alabama Theatre continues to serve as a cultural treasure, offering a unique and immersive experience that transports visitors to a bygone era of entertainment while remaining a vital and dynamic part of Birmingham’s artistic landscape.

Vulcan Park and Museum , situated atop Red Mountain in Birmingham, Alabama, is home to one of the city’s most iconic symbols—the Vulcan statue.

Standing at 56 feet tall, Vulcan is the world’s largest cast-iron statue and has been overlooking Birmingham since its dedication in 1936. Vulcan Park and Museum were established to celebrate not only the statue but also the history and industrial achievements of the Birmingham area.

Visitors can explore Vulcan Park and Museum to learn about Birmingham’s industrial past, its role in the iron and steel industry, and the cultural and economic impact of Vulcan on the region.

In addition to the museum, Vulcan Park offers panoramic views of Birmingham and its surrounding areas, providing a stunning backdrop for various outdoor activities. The park’s lush grounds feature walking trails, picnic areas, and beautifully landscaped gardens.

Visitors can climb to an observation tower at the top of the statue, offering breathtaking views of the city skyline. With its combination of educational exhibits, scenic beauty, and a historic statue, Vulcan Park and Museum is one of the top landmarks in Birmingham, Alabama.

The Southern Museum of Flight , located in Birmingham, Alabama, is a captivating institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich history of aviation in the Southern United States.

Established in 1966, the museum has grown to become one of the largest aviation museums in the Southeast, featuring an extensive collection of aircraft, artifacts, and exhibits that span the history of flight.

Visitors to the Southern Museum of Flight can explore a diverse array of aircraft, including vintage warplanes, experimental aircraft, and commercial planes, providing a comprehensive look at the evolution of aviation technology over the years.

Beyond its impressive collection of aircraft, the Southern Museum of Flight offers a range of educational programs and exhibits that highlight the contributions of individuals from the Southern region to the field of aviation. The museum plays a crucial role in inspiring and educating the public about the wonders of flight and the aerospace industry.

With interactive displays, flight simulators, and engaging presentations, the Southern Museum of Flight invites visitors of all ages to embark on a journey through the skies, fostering an appreciation for the pioneers and innovations that have shaped the world of aviation.

Explore more iconic cities in the US South with a visit to New Orleans !

Another one of the most fun things to do while visiting Birmingham is head out to Moss Rock Preserve . Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains near Birmingham AL, this natural gem offers a peaceful retreat into the outdoors.

Spread across nearly 350 acres, the preserve features diverse ecosystems, including hardwood forests, boulder fields, and tranquil streams.

One of the highlights of Moss Rock Preserve is the presence of enchanting waterfalls, where cool, clear water cascades over picturesque rock formations. These waterfalls, such as the popular “The Waterfall,” provide a serene and scenic backdrop for hikers and nature enthusiasts exploring the network of trails that wind through the preserve.

With its lush landscapes and captivating water features, Moss Rock Preserve stands as a haven for those seeking the tranquility and beauty of Alabama’s natural environment.

The Negro Southern League Museum , situated in Birmingham, Alabama, stands as a vital institution dedicated to preserving and honoring the legacy of African American baseball players in the Southern United States.

The museum is a poignant reminder of the challenges and triumphs faced by black baseball players during the era of segregation. It commemorates the legacy of the Negro Southern League, which was a significant part of the broader Negro Leagues that provided African American players the opportunity to showcase their talents in a racially divided America.

The museum’s exhibits feature a wealth of memorabilia, photographs, and artifacts, offering a comprehensive look at the history of the league and the enduring impact of black baseball players on the sport.

The Negro Southern League Museum goes beyond the statistics and scores, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of the social and cultural implications of African American baseball during a tumultuous period in American history.

Interactive displays, oral histories, and multimedia presentations highlight the experiences of players, coaches, and teams, shedding light on their resilience and determination in the face of adversity.

Sloss Furnaces Park in Birmingham, AL, stands as a testament to the city’s industrial heritage and is a National Historic Landmark that captures the essence of the iron industry’s impact on the region.

Originally a pig iron-producing blast furnace in operation from 1882 to 1971, Sloss Furnaces has been preserved and transformed into a unique historical and cultural park.

Visitors can explore the industrial landscape, including the massive furnaces, boiler houses, and other structures that tell the story of Birmingham’s crucial role in the iron and steel industry during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Today, Sloss Furnaces Park not only preserves the industrial past but also serves as a dynamic space for the arts, education, and community engagement. The park hosts events, concerts, and workshops, embracing its historical significance while adapting to the evolving needs of the community.

The rusted beauty of the furnaces against the backdrop of the city skyline offers a striking juxtaposition, reminding visitors of Birmingham’s transformation from an industrial powerhouse to a thriving cultural hub. Sloss Furnaces Park stands as a living museum, inviting people to explore the intersection of history, art, and industry within this unique and significant historical site.

Those looking for outdoor adventures near Birmingham, AL can head up to Ruffner Mountain . This sprawling nature preserve covers over 1,000 pristine acres. This urban wilderness offers a diverse range of hiking trails that wind through lush forests, over rugged ridges, and past historic mining sites.

Visitors to Ruffner Mountain can explore its network of well-maintained trails, revealing stunning vistas of Birmingham’s skyline and the surrounding Appalachian foothills. The preserve is home to a rich array of plant and animal life, providing an immersive experience for nature enthusiasts and hikers.

One of Ruffner Mountain’s prominent features is its historic mining sites, offering a glimpse into Birmingham’s industrial past.

The Crusher Trail, for example, takes hikers through the remnants of an old limestone quarry and showcases the ingenuity of the region’s mining history. Ruffner Mountain also serves as an outdoor classroom, offering educational programs and community events that promote an understanding of the local ecosystems.

Read next: The 30 Best Things To Do In Tennessee

Good Dog Park and Bar offers a unique and delightful experience for pet lovers in Birmingham, AL. This iconic venue blends a dog-friendly park with a lively bar atmosphere. This establishment provides a haven for dog owners and their furry companions!

The Good Dog Park and Bar features spacious play areas with agility equipment, ensuring dogs have ample space to socialize and burn off energy. Meanwhile, pet parents can relax and enjoy a diverse menu of drinks and snacks at the adjoining bar.

The combination of a vibrant social scene, a well-equipped dog park, and the camaraderie of fellow dog lovers creates a dynamic and welcoming space that reflects Birmingham’s commitment to fostering a sense of community, all while celebrating the bond between humans and their canine companions.

Where to Stay in Birmingham, Alabama

After indulging in all the fun things to do in Birmingham, AL, you’ll want a decent place to rest your head at night. Luckily there are some amazing hotels in the city center, all located just a short drive from Birmingham Shuttlesworth International Airport. Here are some top-rated options for every budget!

The Kelly Birmingham , part of the Tapestry Collection by Hilton, offers an upscale stay in downtown Birmingham, AL. The stylish and elegant accommodations are accompanied by a shared lounge, private parking, a restaurant and a bar.

Guests rave about the staff, the breakfast, and the unique decor in the hotel. Plus it is conveniently located near all the best attractions.

The Hampton Inn & Suites is one of the top-rated hotels in the city center. With everything you need right at your fingertips, the Hampton Inn & Suites is set in a luxurious building that is a feast for the eyes!

Complete with secure car parking, free WiFi, on-site dining, a fitness center, a business center, and complimentary breakfast, you can relax and enjoy your time at this excellent, 3-star hotel.

If you’re looking to explore Birmingham, AL on a budget, Best Western Carlton Suites has you covered. With an indoor swimming pool, included breakfast, daily housekeeping, and air-conditioned rooms, you get wonderful value for money here.

There are local eateries within walking distance, and the heart of downtown is just a 6 minute drive away. Free parking is available if you have a car during your stay.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

Love Travel?

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter for the best travel tips, ideas and deals!

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.

READ MORE...

The Perfect 3 Days In Key West Itinerary (2024 Guide)

The Ultimate Big Sur Road Trip Itinerary (2024 Guide)

The Perfect 3 Days In Sedona Itinerary (2024 Guide)

Related Posts

15 best day trips from denver, colorado (2024 guide), 21 best things to do in memphis, tennessee (2024 guide), 20 best places to visit in california (2024 guide), 21 amazing road trips from dallas (2024 guide), leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

29 Best & Fun Things To Do In Birmingham (Alabama)

By: Author Travel Around

Posted on Last updated: November 17, 2022

With a mix of interesting landscapes and beautiful attractions, Birmingham is one of the major tourist spots in Alabama.

Tourists visit here from all over the world to check out its amazing museums, historic landmarks, parks, lakes, malls, and mountains.

If you’re planning a trip to Birmingham, you’d be probably wondering where and how to start your exploration.

This could be highly challenging, especially for visitors coming out of state.

To provide solutions to these possible challenges, here are just a few cool and amazing things you could do in Birmingham to maximize your vacation experiences.

You’ll definitely find both popular and less popular attractions on this list. The city presents every visitor with the best options to choose from!

Here are our picks of the 30 best and most fun things you could do during your trip to this city of Alabama!

Things To Do In Birmingham

1. birmingham east lake park.

Jefferson / Birmingham East Lake Park

East Lake Park is a large green space with a sizable fishing lake, swimming pool, sports facilities, and a playground.

This fun place was established in June 1893 and has since then been a favorite place for outdoor enthusiasts.

The sights and sounds are very peaceful, and if you’re an avid birdwatcher, you can see some pretty cool ones here.

Also, the scenery is gorgeous and always very clean and nice looking.

If you’d be in this beautiful attraction of Birmingham, It has a great walking path where you can enjoy the ducks walking alongside your kids.

Besides, there is great historical information around the park that visitors can read in order to learn more about this beautiful park.

Run into a couple of old friends, and get the best of birthday celebrations, East Lake Park will present endless possibilities!

Address: 8101 4th Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35206, United States

2. Alabama Jazz Hall Of Fame In Birmingham

Lamar / Flickr

The music and accomplishments of more than 170 native Birmingham jazz musicians are preserved here!

Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame was established in 1978 and became opened to the public on September 18, 1993.

The sole mission of its establishment is to educate and showcase a continued and sustained program of the heritage of jazz music in the United States.

If you love music or care to know some unpopular facts about music and you’re in this city of Alabama, the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame has this unique fact for you!

Interestingly, the beautiful documentations in this fun place include Nat King Cole, Duke Ellington, and several other great men!

They adequately honored the pioneers who shaped jazz history, and it’s so great.

Don’t be an exception to those who visit this fun place anytime you’re in Birmingham!

Address: 1701 4th Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203, United States

3. Birmingham Children’s Theatre

Manuel Nageli / Unsplash

Birmingham Children’s Theatre is a performing arts theater in Birmingham, Alabama.

Unlike other theaters in this city of Alabama, this Children’s Theater is for young audiences.

If you’d be with your kids down here, your kids will be glad to follow you!

Founded in 1947, this impressive place stages basically eight productions on a yearly basis.

The plays here are based on common fictional narrations known to kids, especially those under 15!

As a favorite kid-friendly attraction, the seats are comfortable and the admission fee is affordable.

If you’d love your kids to be educated, entertained, and enriched in knowledge, a trip here with them is necessary!

The theater produces unprecedented high-quality theatrical entertainment and provides arts education for children and families.

If you’d come to this attraction of Birmingham, do come early as it may be rowdy when it’s late!

Address: 2130 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd N, Birmingham, AL 35203, United States

4. Joe Minter’s African Village In America

Joe Minter’s African Village In America

Since 1989, when Joe Minter created his African American village, it has been one of the most visited attractions in Birmingham.

With homemade sculptures, signs, and shrines as a tribute to African great personalities, Joe’s documentation is surely going to be fun to see.

Interestingly, this great man isn’t alone! His yard presents the best history of the 11 million Africans shipped to the New World prior industrial revolution.

He has worked extensively to create an African-American history with his sculptures.

Each scene depicts a moment in history and adequately reflects the African ordeal during the slave trade era.

Simply put, Joe has a living history of how African are treated prior to the industrial revolution.

The presence of this makes this city of Alabama more remarkable!

This son of Mr. Lawrence Dunbar, an American sculptor/folk artist, has so much to offer in his village.

If you’re a Black America, it’s a sure deal to be here! If you’re not, you have so much to learn, too!

Address: 931 Nassau Ave. SW., Birmingham, AL, United States

5. Regions Field, Birmingham

Sherwood Cox / Regions Field

One of the fun places worth exploring in this Birmingham is Regions Field .

Regions Field is essentially a baseball stadium with a capacity of 8500 visitors.

It’s a fun attraction established on the 10th of April, 2013, with the entire surface laced with beautiful natural grass.

Whether you love baseball or not, you’d never find this attraction of Alabama less interesting.

The field offers a spacious 360-degree concourse that allows every visitor to look through the delightful action on the field as they move through the ballpark.

No admittance fee is payable by any visitor, and kids would access the playground to burn off energy.

Perhaps you might love ice cream while enjoying the beautiful matches, you’d get that aplenty here too.

Regions Field is invariably a place you’d love to visit. Therefore, we recommend you come spend some time here anytime you’re in Birmingham!

Address: 1401 1st Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233, United States

6. Birmingham Zoo

Birmingham Zoo

Will you love to explore an animal zoo during your forthcoming visit to Birmingham?

If you’d be in this beautiful city of Alabama with the aim of exploring an animal zoo, that’s absolutely possible anytime you’re in town.

Birmingham Zoo will create the magic and give you the beautiful memories you’d appreciate for years.

This zoological park in Birmingham has about 550 animals with over 195 species.

Established in 1995 with the aim of Inspiring Passion to Conserve the Natural World. If you love animals, this attraction is a must-visit for you!

Incredibly, available animals in this fun place are taken from six continents.

The food and drinks being sold to visitors are not overpriced and visitors are sure to get any food while on sight.

Apparently, no drawback, and perhaps you may love to learn about some of these animals?

It would be great, there are quite a few exhibits that’d do justice to that.

Overall, Birmingham Zoo is a fun place that should be on your itinerary!

Address: 2630 Cahaba Rd, Birmingham, AL 35223, United States

7. Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

Lawrence Pijeaux / Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

Birmingham Civil Rights Institute is a museum established in 1992 and equally a fun place to explore.

This historic museum in this city of Alabama traces the journey of the civil rights advocates which every visitor will find so interesting.

It’s a fun place with a reasonable admission fee to explore. Besides, this large interpretive museum and fun center is the only place in Alabama that has accurate documentation of the 1950s civil rights movement.

They have so much history to share and are an acknowledged learning center for visitors of all ages.

Beyond being a historic center, there are other fun things visitors could enjoy during a visit here.

Visitors could engage in hiking, exploring the little garden, or, alternatively, take some time to walk through this scenic location.

Whichever your option is, you surely wouldn’t enjoy less your time in this fun place.

Address: 520 16th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203, United States

8. Avondale Brewing Company

Selah Vetter / Avondale Brewing Company

Exploration isn’t done by mere visitation to malls, museums, and historic landmarks. It goes beyond that!

It is best done when you plan a visit to places you’d have the best to yourself without compromising your ability to learn and expand your horizon.

In tandem with that, do you love to enjoy yourself to the fullest when next you visit Birmingham?

As much as your response would be affirmative, Avondale Brewing Company will create the magic!

Avondale Brewing Company is a fun place for live music and great beer.

Rain or shine, this amazing place is always available to facilitate visitors’ great experience.

Housed in a historic house that was once a pharmacy, saloon, and brothel, Avondale Brewing is certainly going to give you reasons to plan a visit more and more to this city of Alabama!

Once you arrive in this lovely city, be sure to check out this fun place. After all, every offer is affordable!

Address: 201 41st St S, Birmingham, AL 35222, United States

9. Birmingham Botanical Gardens

Birmingham Botanical Gardens

Another beautiful place on our list of things you could visit during your trip to Birmingham is the Birmingham Botanical Gardens .

It is an attraction that is open to all, every day of the week; spring/summer between the hours of 7 am to 6 pm.

The Birmingham Botanical Gardens is a 67.5-acre garden that was established in 1963.

It’s an amazing fun place that’s highly engaging and no visitor wouldn’t find every one of its offerings so interesting.

If you’re in this fun place, you would have access to explore over 12,000 different types of plants.

Different from that, there are also over 30 works of original outdoor sculpture with several miles of walking paths.

There’s apparently no limit to what a visitor could do in this Alabama’s top free-admittance tourist attraction.

The mission of this fun place in Birmingham is exquisitely curated, which makes them more unique.

As a visitor thinking of an attraction that’s not demanding yet has the best to offer, Birmingham Botanical Gardens is the answer!

Address: 2612 Lane Park Rd, Birmingham, AL 35223, United States

10. Birmingham’s Railroad Park

Damian Holmes / Birmingham’s Railroad Park

Birmingham’s Railroad Park is a beautiful 8-block green space that celebrates the industrial and artistic heritage of downtown Birmingham, Alabama.

This lovely park is a 19-acre park in Birmingham that opened in the fall of 2010.

Ever since its establishment, it has thus been a favorite fun place no visitor is reluctant to explore.

Designed by landscape architect Tom Leader, this park will afford you the opportunity to run, walk, skate, bike, or fly a kite.

Not only that, every visitor would enjoy all the views they could get of the Birmingham skyline and the park itself.

What a fun park with lots of sights to take in and things to do! So great! And to know that this park doesn’t require an admission fee makes them more unique to visitors.

So, why’d you excluded this most adorable fun place from your itinerary? No reason is good enough for this!

Note that, if you’re in this fun area of Birmingham, you can also swim off, especially on a hot day!

If you’d be in this fun place, note that they open between 7 am to 11 pm.

Address: 1600 1st Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233, United States

11. Vulcan Park And Museum

Vulcan Park and Museum

The Vulcan Park and Museum is Birmingham’s front porch welcoming visitors’ destination that has so many fun things.

It’s remarkably the largest cast iron statue in the world. If you are curious about the historical antecedents surrounding the iron and steel industry, this 56-foot tall statue has so much to reflect!

In fact, it depicts the Roman god Vulcan, who is mostly known as the god of fire and forge.

So, why’d you deprived yourself of this resourceful and fun thing while you’d be in Birmingham?

Absolutely, this is a historic attraction that is set to inform you of so many things you’ve read in the literature. No reason would be good enough to avoid visiting Vulcan Park and Museum!

In addition, visitors would also enjoy interactive indoor and outdoor exhibits and displays that give insight into the region’s geology, history, and industrial growth.

Vulcan Park and Museum in Birmingham is indisputably a fun place you’d never regret exploring.

Note that there’s sufficient parking space, restrooms, and picnic tables with a view of the city.

The entrance fee is also cheap and they open until around 5 pm daily. If you’d be in this city of Alabama, it’d be great to include this fun place in your itinerary!

Address: 1701 Valley View Dr, Birmingham, AL 35209, United States

Will you love to explore other amazing cities in Alabama? If you would, you can check out the list of the best and most fun things to do in Orange Beach , Montgomery , and Foley !

12. Heaviest Corner on Earth, Birmingham

Heaviest Corner on Earth

Willing to check out a historical landmark while in this city of Alabama? Worry no more!

The Heaviest Corner on Earth is a historical landmark in Birmingham, with lots of fun things for visitors.

The name itself is a promotional name given to the corner of 20th Street and the famous 1st Avenue North in

This further reflected the simultaneous appearance of four of the tallest buildings in the South.

Built-in the year 1906 by a renowned architect; William C. Weston, this attraction is absolutely amazing!

You’d get to know the history of the establishment of this city of Alabama to the fullest if you’re in this fun place.

There is also some interesting historical fact about Birmingham’s steel history.

If you are on a road trip in pursuit of the world’s heaviest corner, start here in Heaviest Corner on Earth !

Address: The Woodward Building, 20th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203, United States

13. Alabama Theatre

Katharine Kaene / Alabama Theatre

Are you still uncertain of how best you could spend your evening during your next visit to Birmingham?

Don’t forget, this city of Alabama has something fun for all seasons and every period.

Visitors’ best way of enjoying their evenings while in Birmingham is done at Alabama Theatre !

This fun place is basically a performing art theatre in Birmingham that was established as far back as 1927.

With its comfortable seating capacity of about 2,500 people at the time, this attraction is also suitable for couples, friends, or associates.

Of note, this attraction in this city of Alabama is equally the largest in the Birmingham Theatre district.

Coming here to see the best live show with your friends, associates or couple wouldn’t be a bad idea!

If you enjoy dancing, singing, comedy, and more, this place is a dream come through for you.

This 55-year-old attraction will surpass your expectations and you’d surely leave happier during your next trip.

Address: 1817 3rd Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203, United States

14. Ruffner Mountain

Ruffner Mountain

For any nature enthusiasts, it behooves you to check out an attraction that has things you admire.

Luckily, Birmingham isn’t excluded from those fun cities with such attractions!

On your forthcoming trip to this city of Alabama, Ruffner Mountain has everything you’re seeking to see.

This amazing place is a privately held 1040-acre urban nature preserve in the heart of Birmingham, with the mission of making this city of Alabama a fun place for nature enthusiasts.

Its preserve here also includes a visitor center that contains native Alabama animals which include snakes, raptors, and owl turtles.

The hiking trail in this amazing fun place is also amazing and a plus to hikers.

Impressively, there are benches along the trail to take a break on and signs advising which trail you’re on.

Ruffner Mountain will surely provide a great way to spend a day!

Address: 1214 81st St S, Birmingham, AL 35206, United States

15. McWane Science Center In Birmingham

McWane Science Center

Unlike other museums earlier recommended, McWane Science Center is a science museum in Birmingham.

Formerly known as the McWane Center, this is a research archive center Sparking wonder and curiosity about our world through hands-on science experiences.

Established on July 11, 1998, there’s no limit to the fun and what every visitor will learn in this fun place.

Not just for adults, kids of all ages will enjoy the interactive McWane Science Center. It’s simply an integral part of the revitalization of downtown and your trip to Birmingham might be inchoate without a visit to this fun place!

This beautiful fun place is not a regular busier museum and there are stairs & an elevator if needed by visitors.

There is equally a small food cafe which offers delicious meals.

It’s overall a fun place in this city of Alabama that’s promising to make every visitor on sight happier!

Address: 200 19th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203, United States

16. Red Mountain Park

Red Mountain Park

Walking, hiking, and mountain biking is best achievable in this 16 miles multi-attraction!

With the trails winding through 1,500 forested acres at Red Mountain Park , there’s a trail for everyone at Red Mountain Park!

Moreover, this amazing park equally contains closed mines and other artifacts that have so much of this city’s industrial history.

If you’d love to visit a relaxing hike in a safe location when next you’re in Birmingham, this is a place to come!

It’s simply beautiful, with well-marked paths with reasonable admission fees. Obviously, you’d love to visit this fun attraction.

In related view, in this fun spot, there are always some interesting sights to see like an outdoor woods playground, zipline, historic mine, and art!

There’s no end to what every visitor can enjoy in this beautiful attraction of Birmingham, Alabama!

Note that parking space is available, and they open all days excluding Sundays.

Address: 2011 Frankfurt Dr, Birmingham, AL 35211, United States

17. Southern Museum of Flight

Erica Wright / Southern Museum of Flight

Southern Museum of Flight is a place to visit for visitors with a deep interest in learning about the history of flight and aviation.

Do you know the flight also has its history which is interesting and fun?

Obviously, they do, and one of the best places dedicated to this in the United States is right in Birmingham.

The Southern Museum of Flight is essentially a civilian aviation museum in this city of Alabama that features over 100 aircraft.

Besides, artifacts, paintings, photographs, and various models that are resourceful are all available here.

This Southern Museum of Flight is also the home to the Alabama Aviation Hall of Fame. Amazing right? Yes, it is!

Its establishment dates back to 1966, and it is sure to present a live history of the United States Aviation history and every visitor will love it.

If you’d be on a visit to Birmingham with your kids, bringing them here in order to see the history of airplanes and flights in the United States wouldn’t be an idea taken too far!

Address: 4343 73rd St N, Birmingham, AL 35206, United States

Planning a road trip to other fun cities in Alabama? You may check out our list of the best attractions in Dauphin Island and Dothan !

18. Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum

Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum is a glass-enclosed museum that housed over 1,200+ motorcycles & race cars.

George Barber’s zeal for speed promoted his vision of establishing this fun place.

Established in 1960, this museum, with its restoring, preserving, and exhibiting value, will make your Birmingham trip fun-filled.

If you’re a motorcyclist or you have a special interest in learning about the interesting history of motorcycles, this museum houses the world’s largest collection on this and you’d find it so awesome.

The building is designed so beautifully, and the motorcycles and vehicles are very well kept.

If you’d be on a trip to this fun place in Birmingham, you would probably need to spend 4-5 hours viewing the Museum thoroughly.

Meanwhile, note that they also have a nice gift shop where you could get some amazing gifts.

It would be so fun standing on the bridge and watching the cars race.

Address: 6030 Barber Motorsports Pkwy, Leeds, AL 35094, United States

19. The Summit

The Summit is a mall in Birmingham, Alabama that was established in October 1997.

It is a 1 million square foot upscale center located in the heart of Birmingham, Alabama, in the United States.

With its over 100 stores and restaurants, the Summit offers every unique visitor experience during a voyage to this city of Alabama.

Besides, this amazing location is a creative hub of style and taste in the South.

For food, fashion, special events, films, and anytime-style inspiration in Alabama, The Summit wouldn’t disappoint you.

It’s very picturesque and a moderately low-priced outdoor shopping mall you’d ever be glad to visit.

Incredibly, unlike another outdoor shopping mall in this city of Alabama, the Summit has a great mix of stores for shopping.

The entrance fee isn’t pricey, they have a lot of parking spaces, and pets are also allowed.

Address: 214 Summit Blvd #150, Birmingham, AL 35243, United States

20. Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex

Solomon Crenshaw / Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex

Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex is for sports enthusiasts! Are you one?

If you are and you’d be on a trip to Birmingham in the coming weeks, ensure you check out Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex!

This fun place is a sports complex in Birmingham that is formerly known as Birmingham–Jefferson Civic Center.

This 1976 sports, convention, and entertainment complex has a lot of interesting fun activities for visitors.

You stand to enjoy a lot of sporting activities, cultural shows, and a series of action displays.

That’s basically why it has four entertainment venues which include a stadium, an arena, a concert hall, and a theater.

This is surely an important community gathering where you’d find everything you need to make your trip to Birmingham worthwhile.

It’s obviously more than just a venue for conventions and trade shows. You’d love to be here!

Address: 1 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd N, Birmingham, AL 35203, United States

21. Negro Southern League Museum

Negro Southern League Museum

Are you a baseball fan planning a journey down to Birmingham?

If you are a fan of baseball, Negro Southern League Museum is surely a place to check out!

This is a fun place that’s dedicated to African-American baseball with awesome sporting memorabilia and a research center.

Created in 1929 by a group of African-American baseball enthusiasts, you’d surely enjoy the raw history of African American baseball.

Perhaps you might not be a baseball enthusiast, but a visit here will change your interest in that.

Note that there’s equally a baseball court and a well-equipped playground. Evidently, it’s beyond a museum!

While adults explore the photographic exhibits, they could also play baseball to their satisfaction and kids wouldn’t be left out!

Anytime you’re in this city of Birmingham, don’t miss out on this amazing fun place that has welcomed lots of visitors!

Address: 120 16th St S, Birmingham, AL 35233, United States

22. Statue Of Liberty Replica, Birmingham

Cullen Steber / Wikimedia Commons

At first glance, the Statue of Liberty Replica looks like a regular attraction. It’s beyond that!

Statue of Liberty Replica is one of Birmingham’s most fun-loving and mystical attractions.

Thinking of what’s available here? It’s the official home to three mighty titans; Vulcan, Electra, and a replica Statue of Liberty!

Essentially, it’s a 36-foot-tall bronze replica that was erected in 1958. As of today, it’s remarkably the biggest Liberty replica in the world.

There’s more to this ancient monument beyond what the sight can see in mere literature.

One thing is for sure, admission is free, which means you’ll have more cash in your wallet to explore!

If you are seeking the best thing to do in Birmingham, plan your itinerary well and come visit the Statue of Liberty Replica.

It would be great to explore an attraction that’d give you apt information and a pictorial view of what you’ve been reading in literature!

Address: 516 Liberty Pkwy., Birmingham, AL, United States.

23. Urban Air Trampoline And Adventure Park

Urban Air Trampoline And Adventure Park

If you’d love to explore the best year-round indoor amusements in the Birmingham metro area, visit Urban Air Trampoline !

Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park is a large-scale outdoor attraction that’s suitable for a family trip.

While the trampolines are plentiful, it’s the added attractions that take this park up a notch!

Kids wouldn’t be less happy exploring this fun place in Birmingham.

Adults would surely have the best of their travel experience, there’s obviously something fun for all!

If you’re in for a spring break, you could easily order some amazing chicken, BBQ wings, and lots of awesome play!!

Thinking of what more makes up this place to be a favorite visitor attraction in Birmingham? It’s never over!

They have a zip line, rope bridge, climbing wall, and all kinds of trampolines that are amazing.

In fact, they can entertain large parties and it is large enough that visitors can move around easily.

Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park is a good place to start your exploration in this city of Alabama!

Address: 3695 Roosevelt Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35235, United States

24. Five Points South

Five Points South

The Five Points South is a fun area with a mix of great dining, farm-to-table, and the ever-admired BBQ restaurants.

It is equally a nightlife hub that’s known for its busy pubs and interesting live music spots.

Clustered on 20th Street South, this 1893 establishment is a sure deal and a place to visit for visitors planning a trip to Birmingham.

Beyond that, for more than 100 years, the Five Points South neighborhood of Birmingham has provided a space for cultural and commercial growth.

It’s the best place to go if you’d love to learn more about the prevailing culture in Alabama.

The Five Points South in Alabama doesn’t only showcase these cultures but also presents them in an interactive manner.

Make the most of your next trip to this city of Alabama by checking out these top-rated attractions and sights you’d not love to miss!

Address: Five Points South, Birmingham, AL, United States

25. Rainbow LED Tunnel In Birmingham

Rainbow LED Tunnel

Whether you reside in downtown Birmingham or are only interested in exploring the best the city has to offer, you likely wouldn’t find Rainbow LED Tunnel less interesting!

It’s a fun place with a funky art installation that essentially features vibrant LED lights, illuminating an art déco–style underpass.

This place seems to be a top attraction for visitors planning to during something unique while in Birmingham, Alabama.

With the constant flux and the impressive visual reality, this is one of the most amazing surreal experiences you’d always appreciate!

They present a unique series of tunnels with neon lights.

The best time we’d suggest is to go there late evenings or early mornings.

If you’d be available during this period in this city of Alabama, the maximum time you’d spend here is 30 minutes.

However, it’d be like a lifetime spent here because the experience will not only be fun but totally exceptional!

Address: 1 14th St S, Birmingham, AL 35203, United States

26. Birmingham Race Course Casino

Malique Rankin / Race Course Casino

Stand to present simulcast racing facilities for visitors and tourists alike, Birmingham Race Course Casino is unique on its own!

This fun location is for casino lovers planning a trip to this city of Alabama in the United States.

With the overwhelming and irresistible love of Milton McGregor, he established this fun place in the year 1987.

Opened for visitors who are 19 years or older with an affordable admittance fee.

The slot machines are okay, not outdated, and will surely keep every visitor entertained.

They allow more free play and food is also available on the 2nd floor while you’d get a burger and hot dog counter.

It’s apparently an addictive and fun place for casino lovers, definitely going to add more fun to your Birmingham trip!

There is a good pastime, and payoffs appear to be lower than in other local casinos. You’d love to be here again after your next trip!

Address: 1000 John Rogers Dr, Birmingham, AL 35235, United States

Plan to explore other fun cities in the state of Alabama? Check out the top attractions in Auburn , Mobile , and Tuscaloosa !

27. Avondale Antiques, Birmingham

Avondale Antiques

Do you wish to get some nice antiquities to yourself while enjoying other fun offerings in this city of Alabama?

That’s never a problem! Avondale Antiques have unique finds for every lover of quality antiquities!

However tight your schedule could be, Fred (the owner) has some nice antiquities you’d love to get.

With its over 20 years of existence, every visitor in Birmingham will surely see a pick here!

It’s a fun place that always has some great pieces, especially lamps and lighting antiquity.

The shop is set up very nicely and comfortable to browse through the list of what they offer.

Wonderful store, friendly atmosphere, affordable offerings, and super owners, that’s the apt description of Avondale Antiques!

While planning a voyage to this city of the South, be sure to include this wonderful antique store in your itinerary.

It’s obviously going to create some beautiful memories you’d stand to remember all day!

Address: 4301 3rd Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35222, United States

28. Alabama Farmers Market

Clinton Alexander / Alabama Farmers Market

Open 7 days a week, all days of the year, rain or shine, Alabama Farmers Market has tons of things for visitors.

It’s an amazing place with tons of vendors that offers amazing farm produce.

During your trip to Birmingham, if you’d love to get some nice chocolate, cakes, butter, bread, ice cream, meat, or vegetables, this place is for you!

All offerings are of absolute quality and it’s sure this aged long market wouldn’t disappoint any visitor’s expectation.

Perhaps you might love seeing cultural shows and various celebrations that depict Alabama’s cultural heritage. You’d have that plenty here.

Not a regular bust market like others and the vendors are highly mannered.

Visiting this fun place could create the best travel experience for you! Do plan a visit here when next you’re in Birmingham.

Address: 344 Finley Ave W, Birmingham, AL 35204, United States

29. Alabama Historical Radio Society Museum

Alabama Historical Radio Society Museum

The Alabama Historical Radio Society Museum is located on the first floor of the Alabama Power building.

It is a fun place that housed various amazing collections of radio devices that were used in the old times.

Here, every visitor will have the opportunity to visit the reserve room and see what the earliest produced radio looks like.

Unpopular museum, notwithstanding, it has something incredible for every visitor!

Besides, this museum also features antique radios, monuments, and several photos that’d enhance every visitor’s understanding of radio history.

In the United States, there are few places dedicated to preserving this amazing history.

Anytime you plan a trip to Birmingham, it wouldn’t only be fun but so great for you to visit this fun place!

Address: 600 18th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203, United States

Final Remarks

There’s a lot more to Birmingham in Alabama than the stuff that is available in the brochures!

If you would love to have fun and get an authentic vacation experience, use our comprehensive list to narrow down your itinerary.

The museums are waiting for you, and the malls, parks, and lakes are expecting your arrival!

Happy Travels!

The 15 Best Things to Do in Birmingham, Alabama

• Facebook 19
• Pinterest 219

Birmingham may get overshadowed by the South’s more-famous cities, but that doesn’t mean you should skip over this place. Take a chance on Birmingham, and we have no doubt you’ll fall head over heels for this vibrant Southern city! From bustling craft breweries to iconic civil rights landmarks to world-class museums, there’s a lot to love about Alabama ‘s second-largest city.

With its industrial roots and steel industry, Birmingham is known as “The Magic City,” referring to the city’s rapid growth in the late-18th century. Fast-forward to today, and you’ll find that Birmingham pays homage to its industrial roots with unique attractions like the dystopian-esque Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark and the massive Vulcan statue that’s perched on Red Mountain high above the city. 

But delve a bit deeper, and you’ll find that modern-day Birmingham is a hub for culture, arts, and cuisine. You can easily spend your days getting your fill of Alabama-style barbecue in a hole-in-the-wall eatery or dining in a trendy food hall, getting a culture fix at the Birmingham Museum of Art, or catching a show at the historic Alabama Theatre. Plus, if you want to get out in nature, you’ll be spoiled for choice with the city’s green spaces and nature reserves.

With so many cool things to see, do, and eat, you might not know where to begin. So we’ve compiled our list of the absolute best things to do in Birmingham for you. Stick to these fun and unique Birmingham bucket list recommendations, and there’s no doubt you’ll have an amazing time exploring The Magic City!

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 15 Best Things to Do in Birmingham, Alabama

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

15 Fun and Unique Things to Do in Birmingham

1. eat your way through the pizitz food hall.

If you’re a foodie, a visit to The Pizitz Food Hall should be at the top of your Birmingham bucket list. Set right in the heart of downtown, this is the perfect place to mingle with a group of friends over delicious food and drinks.

One of the coolest things about this trendy food hall is that you’ll have 12 totally unique food stalls to choose from – so there really is something for everyone in your group! 

You can sample fragrant Vietnamese pho at Pho Pho, snack on traditional Indian street food at Silver Kati, nosh on Southern fried chicken sandwiches at J Wings, indulge with fried shrimp and oyster po’boys at The Broad Street Peaux Boys, or fill up on spicy ahi tuna poke bowls at Ono Poké. For dessert, pick up a sweet treat from Birmingham Candy Co. or Edolyn’s Pies. 

For those who want to imbibe, there is a popular bar in the center of the food hall, which has 12 beers on tap and an impressive menu of specialty cocktails. Plus, they have great happy hour specials Monday through Friday from 3 pm to 6 pm!

2. Get a History Lesson at the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

No trip to Birmingham is complete without educating yourself about the city’s role in the Civil Rights Movement in the 1950s and 1960s. And there’s no better place to do that than the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute . 

Located in the heart of the Civil Rights District, the museum houses all sorts of permanent, rotating, and interactive exhibitions that highlight the Civil Rights Movement, African-American life, events and conflicts in Birmingham in the 20 th century, and the continued fight for human rights in general. 

Explore the museum, and you’ll also find sobering relics of segregation, including separate drinking fountains and classrooms for white and black students. Depending on when you visit, the Institute also hosts a range of educational events.

Once you’ve finished perusing the Institute, you can stroll around the Civil Rights District and see the area’s top sites, including the 16th Street Baptist Church , Kelly Ingram Park , and the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame .

3. Get Cultured at the Birmingham Museum of Art

Art enthusiasts can’t visit Birmingham without stopping off at the Birmingham Museum of Art . Located in the Cultural District, you’ll find over 25,000 works of art spread throughout three stories. With an impressive range from ancient to contemporary, there’s a reason this is one of the top Birmingham attractions for art experts and novices alike!

Peruse the museum, and you’ll find an incredible collection of Asian art, including an array of beautiful Vietnamese ceramics. There is also the American decorative arts collection, where you can glimpse 2,000 porcelain works, metalwork, textiles, and more. The acclaimed African art gallery is equally as impressive and features everything from intricate beadwork to ornate headdresses.

After that, head over to the European art section, and you’ll find works from the likes of Salvador Dalí and Camille Pissarro. If that’s not enough, the museum also hosts a range of events and special exhibitions. Plus, if you’re visiting in the summer months, you can attend one of the museum’s popular Art on the Rocks events!

4. Take Artsy Photographs of the Sloss Furnaces

The Sloss Furnaces operated from 1882 until 1970 and was once the largest manufacturer of pig iron in the world. Fast-forward to today, and the Sloss Furnaces are still standing proud as a National Historic Landmark and a reminder of Birmingham’s industrial roots. 

Taking a self-guided tour of the Sloss Furnaces is easily one of the most unique things to do in Birmingham. And if photography is your thing, you can’t miss out on a trip to this dystopian-esque site. 

Visiting the Sloss Furnaces is a cinch since they’re located in the North Lakeview Industrial District, just a couple miles from the heart of downtown. Before embarking on your self-guided tour, you’ll need to sign in at the Visitors Center, where you can also pick up a handy self-guided tour brochure.

As you walk around the grounds, you’ll learn all about the iron-making process, the working conditions of the workers, and the site’s important role in The Magic City’s history. If you do plan to take photographs, be sure to head over to their website to read the rules on taking photos of this one-of-a-kind Birmingham attraction.

5. Meet Exotic Animals at the Birmingham Zoo

Set adjacent to the Birmingham Botanical Gardens, the Birmingham Zoo is one of the best family-friendly things to do in Birmingham. The sprawling zoo is set on 122 acres of land and is home to 550 animals and 180 species, including a range of endangered species. 

Explore the grounds, and you’ll find everything from red pandas, lions, and giraffes to orangutans, rhinos, and elephants. Time your visit right and you can check out all sorts of fun shows and events, including sea lion shows, animal training sessions, and reptile feeding events. 

If you want to get up close and personal with creatures like sea lions or American black bears, you can purchase tickets for a variety of “Animal Encounters.” The zoo also features special sections, including Trails of Africa, the Children’s Zoo, and so much more!

6. Take a Break at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens

After you check out all of the majestic animals at the Birmingham Zoo, you can spend an hour or two unwinding in the incredible Birmingham Botanical Gardens . Located right next door to the zoo, the Botanical Gardens are displayed in a beautiful 67-acre park that offers the perfect reprieve from the hustle and bustle of downtown Birmingham.

You’ll find that most of the gardens are dedicated to a specific type of plant. Take a stroll around, and you’ll find a formal rose garden, as well as entire areas filled with nothing but lilies, irises, and rhododendrons, to name a few. 

If you’re interested in checking out the local flora, you’ll love the Gardens of Nature. After that, you can move on to the Gardens of Culture, which feature everything from Japanese gardens to herb gardens. Before you leave, it’s well worth paying a visit to the gift shop for a souvenir or The Gardens Cafe for some seriously impressive locally sourced dishes.

7. Pay a Visit to Pepper Place Saturday Market

Visiting The Market at Pepper Place on a Saturday morning is hands down one of the most fun things to do in Birmingham. Time your visit right because The Market at Pepper Place is only open from 7 am to noon every Saturday.

An attraction unto itself, the market is actually set in an old industrial brick building that once housed a Dr Pepper bottling plant! The revamped building is now home to all sorts of trendy shops and restaurants. 

With over 100 vendors, this Certified Alabama Farmers Market is a great spot to pick up fresh local produce if you’re planning on an extended stay. If not, you can still peruse the stalls and pick up delicious meals, picnic supplies, or handmade local goods. From pottery and jewelry to fresh fruits and baked goods, you’ll find everything here.

If you’re hungry, you’ll have a range of vendors and food trucks to choose from. You can sample Southern-style boiled peanuts at Alabama Peanut Co., dig into Thai dishes from Tay Thai Street Food, indulge in chocolate chip cookies from 450 Bake Shop, and so much more!

8. Have a Scenic Picnic at Railroad Park

One of the coolest things about Birmingham is that it’s brimming with green spaces, and Railroad Park is one of the best! Set on 19 acres of lush land in the heart of downtown, this is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of downtown.

Meander around Railroad Park, and you’ll come across placid lakes, babbling rivers, and scenic hiking trails. If you want to get some exercise, the popular Rail Trail is an easy 0.75 miles and boasts incredible views over the city. 

If you’re in town on a Saturday, it’s well worth stopping by The Market at Pepper Place farmers’ market to pick up a spread of farm-fresh picnic supplies. With plenty of sprawling lawns and hidden corners, Railroad Park is the perfect place to have a picnic lunch when the weather is nice. 

Depending on when you’re visiting, Railroad Park hosts tons of pop-up events throughout the year, including the free summer concert series, the annual Cajun Cook-Off, and the Cahaba River Fry Down!

9. Get Educated at the McWane Science Center

If you’re wondering what to do in Birmingham with kids, look no further than the McWane Science Center . Their goal is to “spark wonder and curiosity about our world through hands-on science.” With all of the fascinating interactive exhibits, fun experiments, and educational programs, there are endless things to keep you and your little ones occupied!

You’ll love exploring the permanent exhibits, which range from “Alabama Dinosaurs” to the “Fox 6 Weather Lab” to “Sea Monsters.” Explore the grounds, and you’ll also find the World of Water Aquariums, which are home to green Moray eel, moon jellyfish, and other incredible sea creatures. If you’re feeling brave, you can even get up close and personal with sea life in the Shark & Ray Tank!

After that, check out the Combustion and Lightning Strikes presentation at the state-of-the-art Rushton Science Theater, make oddly-shaped bubbles in the Bubble Room, take a trip to far-flung galaxies with the brand-new Virtual Reality Experience, and so much more! Plus, when you need to take a load off, you can head over to the on-site IMAX theater, which screens a variety of fascinating films each day.

10. Take a Scenic Hike at Ruffner Mountain

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city center, Ruffner Mountain is the perfect place to get out in nature. Plus, this mecca for outdoor enthusiasts is set in Birmingham’s South East Lake neighborhood, just a quick 10-minute drive from downtown.

Now a 1,038-acre nature preserve, the area was used for mining from the late-1800s until the 1950s. To this day, you’ll still find forgotten ruins from the mountain’s mining past scattered around the nature preserve, including a massive quarry and defunct mines.

As one of the top Birmingham attractions, Ruffner Mountain boasts 12 miles of trails that are completely off-limits to vehicles and bicycles. If you’re up for a more challenging hike, head up the Overlook Trail, and you’ll be rewarded with a bird’s-eye view of the city below. 

For something a bit more mellow, try Trillium Trail or the Lizard Loop. There are hiking and running trails for all abilities at Ruffner Mountain!

11. Sample Some of the Best BBQ in Alabama

No trip to Birmingham is complete without sampling the city’s top-notch barbecue and soul food dishes, complete with all the fixings. Birmingham is brimming with excellent barbeque and Southern soul food joints, but SAW’S Soul Kitchen is one of the best!

You can choose from the traditional Original Pulled Pork sandwich or the Pork n’Greens plate or go for the more creative Sweet Tea Fried Chicken Sandwich or the Fried Green Tomato BLT. Either way, you’ll want to add on some addictive sides like the Cheese Grits, Fried Pickles, and Mac and Cheese.

The iconic Dreamland Bar-B-Que is another local favorite and is the place to go for some of the best ribs in town. Founded by “Big Daddy” John Bishop, this Alabama chain has garnered tons of awards and acclaim for its barbecue. Big Daddy was even inducted into the Barbecue Hall of Fame in 2019 – so you know this place is the real deal!

12. See a Show at the Historic Alabama Theatre

Catching a show at the historic Alabama Theatre is a great option if you’re looking for a fun, family-friendly thing to do in Birmingham. Dating back to 1927, this beautiful theater was built by Paramount and used as a movie house for 55 years. It is now listed on the Alabama Register of Landmarks and Heritage and the National Register of Historic Places.

Nowadays, the theater is used for all sorts of entertainment events, including classic film screenings, plays, concerts, musicals, and more! The Alabama Theatre hosts roughly 150 events each year, so it’s well worth checking out the website to see what’s going on during your visit.

It’s honestly well worth purchasing tickets to a show here just to marvel at the stunning interiors and architecture of this historic gem. Located in the heart of the Birmingham Theatre District, the Alabama Theatre and the adjacent Lyric Theatre are the only remaining theaters in the district.

13. Take in the Views from the Vulcan Park and Museum

If you’re a sucker for a good view, a trip to Vulcan Park and Museum is a must on your Birmingham bucket list. While there’s always something fun to do in Vulcan Park, a trip to the Vulcan statue and observation deck is hands down one of the coolest things to do in Birmingham!

Perched at the top of Red Mountain, the 56-foot-tall statue is the largest cast-iron statue in the world and was created to pay homage to The Magic City’s industrial roots. Aptly named, the Roman god Vulcan is actually the god of fire.

To reach the top of Red Mountain, you can either take the elevator. Or, if you feel like getting a bit of exercise, you can climb the marble stairway to the top. 

Either way, you will be rewarded with sweeping views over the city. After that, it’s also well worth checking out the interactive museum, which tells the story of the city’s history and culture.

14. Geek Out at the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum

If you’re looking for unique Birmingham activities, you have to go to the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum ! Anyone who has a thing for motorsports would be remiss not to pay a visit to this one-of-a-kind museum! With so many cool things to see and do, this is a great family-friendly attraction that is sure to entertain everyone in your crew. 

The whole thing was started by American businessman, former Porsche racer, and car enthusiast George Barber. While the museum started out as a collection of cars in the 1980s, Barber later shifted his focus to motorcycles. Fast-forward to today, and the museum is now home to over 1,600 motorcycles!

While the museum prides itself as the largest motorcycle collection in the world, you’ll also find all sorts of vintage cars, rare race cars, and the world’s largest Lotus collection scattered around the museum. So car aficionados will not be disappointed. 

Another cool thing about the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum is that it features a 16-turn, 2.38-mile racetrack, where many automakers film commercials.

15. Go Brewery Hopping in Downtown Birmingham

This may come as a surprise, but Birmingham is home to a seriously impressive craft beer scene. If you’re looking for fun things to do in Birmingham, it’s well worth spending an afternoon going brewery hopping around town with friends!

There are tons of breweries to choose from, so it might be tough to know where to start. Trim Tab Brewing Company is widely hailed as the best brewery in the state and is known for its excellent stouts, IPAs, and fruity concoctions like the popular Paradise Now wheat ale.

Just down the road – near the Sloss Furnaces – you’ll find the trendy Avondale Brewing Company . This is a great place to sip their famous Miss Fancy’s Tripel Belgian golden ale while listening to live music on the outdoor patio. 

If you need something to soak up all that booze, Back Forty Beer Company is just across the way and serves up a long list of creative gourmet pub dishes and features an impressive number of local beers on tap.

After that, head over to local favorite Good People Brewing Company for their acclaimed El Gordo Russian imperial stout. And, if you’re still thirsty for more, take a chance on any random brewery you may stumble across. Odds are you’ll be impressed! 

There you have it! The 15 best things to do in Birmingham. What’s your favorite thing to do in The Magic City?

Planning a trip to Alabama? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

SHARE THIS ON PINTEREST

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re a foodie, a visit to The Pizitz Food Hall should be at the top of your Birmingham bucket list. Set right in the heart of downtown, this is the perfect place to mingle with a group of friends over delicious food and drinks. One of the coolest things about this trendy food hall is that you’ll have 12 totally unique food stalls to choose from – so there really is something for everyone in your group!

Set adjacent to the Birmingham Botanical Gardens, the Birmingham Zoo is one of the best family-friendly things to do in Birmingham. The sprawling zoo is set on 122 acres of land and is home to 550 animals and 180 species, including a range of endangered species. The zoo also features special sections, including Trails of Africa, the Children’s Zoo, and so much more!

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city center, Ruffner Mountain is the perfect place to get out in nature. Plus, this mecca for outdoor enthusiasts is set in Birmingham’s South East Lake neighborhood, just a quick 10-minute drive from downtown. As one of the top Birmingham attractions, Ruffner Mountain boasts 12 miles of trails that are completely off-limits to vehicles and bicycles. If you’re up for a more challenging hike, head up the Overlook Trail, and you’ll be rewarded with a bird’s-eye view of the city below.

If you’re a sucker for a good view, a trip to Vulcan Park and Museum is a must on your Birmingham bucket list. While there’s always something fun to do in Vulcan Park, a trip to the Vulcan statue and observation deck is hands down one of the coolest things to do in Birmingham! Perched at the top of Red Mountain, the 56-foot-tall statue is the largest cast-iron statue in the world and was created to pay homage to The Magic City’s industrial roots. Aptly named, the Roman god Vulcan is actually the god of fire.

If you’re looking for unique Birmingham activities, you have to go to the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum! Anyone who has a thing for motorsports would be remiss not to pay a visit to this one-of-a-kind museum! With so many cool things to see and do, this is a great family-friendly attraction that is sure to entertain everyone in your crew.

Justine is a writer and editor who always seems to take the unconventional route in life. She also suffers from a serious case of wanderlust! In 2013, she left her hometown in California and set off on a yearlong round-the-world journey with her now-husband – they never looked back. Since then, she’s lived the expat life in Indonesia, Cambodia, China, Vietnam, Mexico, and now Dubai. Along the way, she's written and edited for magazines, newspapers, and websites in Asia and beyond. When she's not stoking her wanderlust by working on travel articles for Wandering Wheatleys, Justine is busy caring for her many foster cats in Dubai, seeking out all the delicious vegetarian food, and taking every chance she gets to explore a new corner of the world!

Related Posts

The 12 Best Hotels in Gloucester, Massachusetts

The 12 Best Hotels In Flagstaff, Arizona

The 25 Best Things to do on Maui

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Where To Stay

Attractions

• Experiences & Itineraries
• Family Friendly
• Live Music & Nightlife
• Food & Drink
• Request A Guide
• Neighborhoods

• Meetings & Conventions
• Group Tours
• International
• Student / Youth
• Submit An RFP

• Festivals & Events

Look it up. Hit it up. Live it up.

Wherever your interests lie, you can bet we have something that’s right up your alley.

Attractions In Birmingham

Whether you have a free day in Birmingham, are planning a three day weekend away, or have a week to spend with us, there’s plenty to keep you interested, occupied and fully engaged. Sure, we want you to take a minute to stop and look around. But with so much to see and do, that’s easier said than done.

Featured Attractions In Birmingham

Barber Vintage Motorsport Museum is the largest private motorcycle collection in the world and a showcase for some of the rarest racecars ever built.

Experience an entire museum dedicated to the finest racing machines on the planet.

Visit more attractions without costing any extra money

The Institute features the lessons of our past as a positive way to chart a new direction for our future.

Built in 1927, it’s one of the nation’s last operating movie palaces, featuring first-run and revival films, concerts and other...

Approximately 900 animals from six continents are on display at the 122-acre facility. It’s a great opportunity to experience, explore...

Birmingham attractions updates

Privacy Overview

• United States
• Birmingham, Alabama

68 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Birmingham, Alabama

• 46 Pinterest

Steeped in rich Civil War-era history, Alabama’s largest metropolitan region takes visitors on a fascinating, sobering, and eye-opening journey that few other Southern cities can match.

However, despite its checkered past, Birmingham is now thrusting itself back into the tourism limelight, and donning the wondrous Magic City moniker which once made it famous.

As any former visitor (or local) will attest, this lively metropolis is full of surprises: from its roaring sports crowds and insightful museums to its stunning inner-city nature, vibrant Theatre District and proximity to the Appalachian Mountains, the selection of things to do in Birmingham is far more diverse and exciting than meets the eye.

Throw in at some of the finest motorcycle collections in history, towering statues, and a stack of happening rooftop bars and underground breweries, and you’ve found yourself a seriously worthy destination.

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!

1 – Meet the rhinos at the Birmingham Zoo

A sprawling, mostly open-air animal kingdom home to over 950 animals of all shapes and sizes (from some 230 different local and international species).

The family-friendly Birmingham Zoo offers curious guests the chance to see some of the planet’s most fascinating creatures up close and in person.

This attraction is great for all ages, with something to see at every turn (including a rhino habitat, an aviary featuring hundreds of colorful birds, and even a petting zoo).

If your timing is right, on specific days (check the website), the zoo puts on magical Glow Wild nights where animal-shaped lanterns are released into the sky!

2 – Marvel at the Birmingham Museum of Art

Sitting in the heart of the city in front of Lynn Park, The Birmingham Museum of Art is a wonderful place for anyone who enjoys the fine arts – be that paintings, sculptures, photography, or ancient relics.

Spread across multiple floors and featuring a quaint garden and cozy cafe, the museum displays over 24,000 works in its permanent collection, including an impressive selection of paintings ranging from impressionism to renaissance and contemporary, as well as extensive collections representing a diverse range of cultures and time periods (don’t miss the Pre-Columbian masks).

Best of all, admission is free! However, donations are certainly appreciated.

3 – Walk around at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens

When you’re looking for things to do in Birmingham, don’t skip over the botanical gardens .

These lush, colorful gardens offer far more than just thousands of blooming flowers and two dozen themed zones (as well as outdoor fountains and winding pathways).

You can take insightful classes, join an expert-led walking tour, explore the on-site Art Gallery, enjoy events such as Earth Day, and plenty more!

It’s free to roam around, 7 days a week, and thanks to the location at the foot of Red Mountain, there’s no shortage of nearby outdoorsy activities to follow suit.

4 – Watch a NASCAR race at the Talladega Superspeedway

Any true motorhead can’t pass up the opportunity to buckle up for the high-octane NASCAR experience.

Here, at the infamous Talladega Speedway (which is less than an hour from Birmingham), you can whiz around the race track at speeds as fast as 165 mph and feel what it’s like to be a real-life Nascar champion.

With these packages, you can ride shotgun drive alongside a professional driver (hold on tight!) or take the wheel yourself. Either way, you’re in for a wild ride.

If you prefer to watch the pros racing, book your tickets now.

• Talladega Superspeedway tickets

5 – Explore the McWane Science Center

Fun, interactive, and sneakily educational for kids and adults alike, the non-profit McWane Science Center dishes up entertainment in spades.

From the awe-inspiring aquarium (don’t miss the Shark & Ray Tank) to the giant IMAX theater, hands-on displays, and expert-led workshops, there’s something for the whole family.

Throughout the downtown attraction, you’ll find areas dedicated to dinosaurs, tech, art, nature, and even a Bubble Room — the ideal spot to whisk away a couple of hours on a rainy day.

6 – Lounge about at The Railroad Park Foundation

The 19-acre property of Railroad Park Foundation , affectionately known as Birmingham’s Living Room, is a natural oasis: it’s full of walking, has a lake to sit around (perfect for a picnic), and serves up some spectacular sunset views.

If you’re after more than a leisurely stroll or bike ride, you’ll be happy to know that the Foundation offers a multitude of classes, including exercise groups, as well as a playground, outdoor gym, and a climbing dome for the youngsters.

Or, just grab a quick cup of tea or coffee at the on-site and simply enjoy the natural surroundings!

7 – Ride fast at the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum

A must for the petrolheads, the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum is home to a truly astonishing array of motorbikes: more than 1,400 motorcycles, spanning over a century of production are found here, next to the Barber Motorsports Park racetrack.

Named after George Barber himself, who was a visionary who loved the speed and thrill of a great car, notching up 63 Porsche wins under his built.

Barber started collecting sports cars that later expanded into motorcycles – and these days, the collection has grown so vast that it’s notched up the official Guinness World Record for the largest motorcycle collection in the world.

8 – Reflect on history at the Kelly Ingram Park

Nestled in the heart of downtown Birmingham, Kelly Ingram Park is a 16-acre haven of green space and serenity.

But while it may seem like an ordinary park at first glance, this place has a rich, complex, and dark history that’s worth taking the time to reflect on.

A common stop on most civil rights tours (while confronting, these tours are essential when visiting) that wander through Birmingham.

The park has multiple sculptures that depict the violence and loss of the civil rights movement, including the iconic Bull Connor statue that highlights the former police commissioner’s use of attack dogs on protestors.

9 – Stroll down the Rotary Trail

Once a vacant railroad track that was gathering dust, the Rotary Club has since transformed the eyesore into a marvelous greenspace trail for the locals and tourists to bike, walk, or run!

As a centennial anniversary gift to the city, the Rotary Club poured money and love into the abandoned site and greatly improved the economy and environment of the area, with the half-mile stretch now acting as a central point for many of the city’s events.

Even if you don’t walk the entire trail, a selfie in front of the 46-foot-tall sign is quintessential.

10 – Experience art at the Arlington Antebellum Home & Gardens

A crowd favorite among architecture buffs, this 1840s construction serves as a stark reminder of the Greek Revival style of architecture and the style of mansion that was oh-so-common during the Civil War era.

Lush grounds and impressive architecture aside, the Arlington Antebellum Home & Gardens also serves as a museum for some of the best decorative arts pieces from the 19th Century and offers a locally-led tour to learn more about the space, its history, and its rare decorative pieces.

If tours and art aren’t exactly your thing, maybe one of their special events will be! Attend a masquerade dinner or Valentine’s day dinner for a truly unique historical experience.

11 – Catch a game at the Bartow Arena

Home to the UAB Blazers men’s and women’s basketball teams as well as the volleyball team, the Bartow Arena is a great and affordable place to catch a game (or two) when in town and check out the country’s up and coming stars.

The arena seats up to 8,500 people and has been hosting games since 1988, locking horns with the likes of Lousiana State, North Texas, Rice, University of Texas San Antonio, and a whole lot more.

And with various events happening throughout the year, there’s always a chance to revel in the high-energy atmosphere.

• Bartow Arena tickets

12 – Visit the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

As an affiliate of the Smithsonian Museum, the humbling and sobering Civil Rights Institute keeps the Birmingham Story alive, providing a fascinating insight into not only the local fight for civil rights in the 1950s and 1960s, but the continuous worldwide battle for equality and human rights.

With eye-opening exhibits on areas like Black History Month and Juneteenth, to Martin Luther King. Jr and the 16th Street Baptist Church bombing, the institute is a must for visitors and locals alike who want to gain a better understanding of how far we’ve come — as well as how far we still have to go.

Out the front, don’t miss the Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument — while a little shocking, it’s a reminder of a reality that isn’t too far in the distance.

13 – Gaze up at the Statue of Liberty Replica at Liberty Park

If you’ve not had the time to visit the actual Statue of Liberty, then no problem – there’s one in Birmingham that’s 1/5th scale of the one in New York!

Clearly, the city has a thing for statues, as the 36-foot replica is one of three enormous statues in the area.

But, the difference here is that there are real gas flames in the torch that burns through the day (not even the original can claim that)

Not to mention, it’s the largest replica around – and therefore definitely worth taking a look at, if only for a few minutes as a quick stop exploring the eastern suburbs.

Directions in Google Maps

14 – Take a hike at Oak Mountain State Park

Craving a dose of nature and an escape from big city life? At Oak Mountain State Park — a lush and diverse landscape full of waterfalls and lakes about 20 miles south of Birmingham.

There are more than enough activities to occupy you and your loved ones for hours on end: while mountain biking and hiking are the crowd favorites, thrill-seeking visitors tend to lean toward options like the BMX course, cable skiing, boat rides, or horseback riding!

After you’re exhausted with all the activity, you can head on over to the picnic area, enjoy a nice meal, and, if you’re up for it, set up camp for the night!

15 – Strap on your wings at the Southern Museum of Flight

Consider yourself an aviation buff? Then the Southern Museum of Flight is the perfect place to spend an afternoon luxuriating in all things aviation.

With a wonderful collection that includes everything from WWII-era aircraft and helicopters, to rocket ships and even flying saucers (okay, maybe not that last one).

This air museum will take you through nearly 100 years worth of history – all spread across 75000 square feet of – as the Museum puts it – learning possibilities.

The Vietnam War Helicopters Exhibit is a crowd favorite, likewise the sleek A-12 Blackbird which sits on the grass outside.

16 – Watch a show at the Alabama Theatre

With its grandiose auditorium and art deco design, the Alabama Theatre was built in 1927 as a luxury cinema for those who could afford it—and today, travelers can enjoy that same luxury and a rich history to boot at one of their events or shows!

As well as hosting some top theatrical performances (including popular local musicals like The Phantom), the theatre also regularly welcomes symphony orchestras and operas.

Just pick a show that tickles your fancy, buy a ticket (in advance to get the best price), and let the so-called Showplace of the South dazzle and delight.

• Alabama Theatre tickets

17 – Satisfy your sweet tooth at Cookie Fix

For all the sugar-lovers out there, Cookie Fix boasts three tantalizing locations in Homewood, Cahaba Heights, and Huntsville, each serving up a lip-smacking range of sweet treats that are especially good to share (or not).

From cookie cakes and cookie stacks to gift bags and sampler packs, the bakery has got you covered with a wide-ranging menu of baked goods that will be sure to leave you craving more (thank heavens for the take-home packs).

18 – Pay your respects at the Alabama Veterans Memorial Park

Set up to honor all those who have fallen from the 20th century to today while serving the country, the Alabama Veterans Memorial park is a somber but peaceful place to visit, especially if you’re looking for some time away from the hustle and bustle of downtown.

20 minutes east of Downtown, the Park features calming walking trails, powerful memorial statues, and the Hall of Honor temple, which displays over 11,000 names of 11,000 Alabamians who’ve sacrificed their lives in battle.

While many visitors simply pop by and explore for a half-hour or so, those looking to learn a little more about local history can opt for a guided tour or visit on Memorial Day to watch the Step-Stone ceremony.

19 – Spend some time at the Vulcan Park and Museum

No trip to Birmingham is complete without a stop by the Vulcan Park and Museum , home of the world’s largest cast-iron statue: the Vulcan Statue.

At 56 feet tall and weighing in at over 100,000 pounds, this colossal figure has been overlooking the city for over a century, serving as a longstanding iconic landmark of the city.

Surrounding the hero are multiple exhibits outlining the best of Birmingham’s timeline, as well as an observation deck that sports an unmatched panoramic view of the downtown skyline and beyond.

20 – Jump around at the DEFY trampoline park

Despite being far more tiring than it looks, there’s nothing better than jumping on a trampoline if you’re looking to burn a few calories and tire out the youngsters.

DEFY heights as you jump through the different activities: kickstart your day at the foam pit before trying out the wall trampolines, extreme dodgeball zone, giant airbags, or freejump area!

Plus, with a cafe on-site, you can refuel before your next jump.

21 – Explore the bleachers at Rickwood Field

Ask any local and they’ll agree: Rickwood Field is a Birmingham treasure.

Originally created for the Barons, America’s oldest baseball park has now become a site for all baseball enthusiasts, retaining the longstanding charm of an old baseball field despite undergoing a thorough restoration.

What was once home to some of baseball’s most iconic players (including Babe Ruth) now serves as a popular spot for visitors, who are granted access to walk in and explore the grandstands or see how fast they can run between the bases.

• Rickwood Field tickets

22 – Learn about a different side of sport at the Negro Southern League Museum

If you’re a big fan of sport and history and are looking for things to do in Birmingham, then make sure to stop into the Negro Southern League Museum – an eye-opening look at the little-known history of the Negro American Baseball League.

The museum tells the story of how, in the face of racism and segregation, black baseball players became some of America’s most talented athletes, with many going on to play for Major League teams long after the Negro Southern League was disbanded.

There are interactive exhibits, thought-provoking lectures a large collection of artifacts, and guided tours that escort visitors through the halls, telling the stories of the many brilliant baseball players who graduated from the league.

23 – Take a tour of the Alabama Wildlife Center

Step inside the Alabama Wildlife Center , which is a space that has been dedicated for the last 45 years to help care for injured and orphaned birds.

With multiple ways to get involved to help with wildlife efforts, there are also amazing ways to learn more about local birds, wildlife conservation acts, and how many birds have been cared back to nature.

Take a guided tour of the wildlife center, and walk through the Treetop Nature Trail. Stop by some of the off-site education programs to learn more about what they do on a daily basis, and even witness a trained raptor!

24 – Trek through the peaceful Red Mountain Park

The Red Mountain Park is a haven for runners, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts of all levels looking to escape the city.

With over 1500 acres of green space and 15 miles of trails (that are well-maintained and clearly marked), it’s easy to spend an entire day exploring every nook and cranny this expansive park has to offer.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try out the park’s zip lines, which offer stunning views of the surrounding area, or spend a night under the stars at the Eagle’s Nest campsite.

25 – Snap some attention-grabbing photos in the Rainbow Tunnel

A quirky little spot that is bound to put a smile on your face, this Instagram-famous landmark is just what it sounds like: a tunnel made up of LED lights and multi-colored paint panels.

Found in the city’s old viaducts, right next to the Railroad Park Foundation (making for the perfect back-to-back itinerary), the art installation has become a photography hotspot for tourists, ‘Grammers, and locals alike.

26 – Crane your neck up at the “Heaviest Corner on Earth”

The Magic City was truly an apt name for the city of Birmingham. At the turn of the 20th Century, the city decided to erect several different skyscrapers all in the same area: the intersection of 1st Avenue, North Street, and 20th Street.

Due to the four major skyscrapers — the John Hand Building, Empire Building, Woodward Building, and Marx Building — two of which claimed the title of the tallest in Alabama at their peak, it was affectionately dubbed the Heaviest Corner on Earth.

While those titles have been stripped, the intersection remains a focal point of the city, making it a great place to explore the history, culture, and food of Birmingham, and get some good pictures too.

27 – Race around the city with a scavenger game

When you’re fed up with slow-paced walking tours and run-of-the-mills tourist attractions and are looking for something off-beat to do together with the family, try your hand at an Amazing-Race-style scavenger game!

There are multiple self-guided scavenger hunts available in Birmingham; most of them don’t even require you to do more than download an app!

As you scoot around town, checking off notorious landmarks (like Vulcan Park and Museum, the 16th Street Baptist Church, and Railroad Park) and hidden gems alike, you’ll be tasked with solving clues, cracking codes, and taking photos – so have your camera ready.

• scavenger games in Birmingham

28 – Tour the Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark

Once a thriving industrial site, this 19th-century landmark is now a popular tourist attraction and has evolved to become one of Birmingham’s most unique attractions.

As the former largest manufacturer of pig iron in the South, Sloss Furnaces produced over 30 million tons of iron between 1882 and 1971.

Nowadays, visitors can take guided or self-guided tours of the furnaces, as well as the on-site museum, which contains artifacts and information about the furnace’s history and its workers.

29 – Journey into the rocks at Desoto Caverns Park

Caves, in Alabama? Yep, you read that right! And they’re every bit as awe-inspiring as you might imagine.

At DeSoto Caverns Park , a stunning slice of Mother Nature is tucked away in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, visitors can explore a labyrinth of caves with names like the “Onyx Column Room” and “Cathedral Room.”

The park also features several activities for kids (and the young at heart), including gem mining, award-winning fudge stalls, regular live entertainment including fire jugglers, and arts and crafts demonstrations.

30 – Hear the story of 16th Street Baptist Church

Located in the Civil Rights District, the 16th Street Baptist Church is more than just a church – it’s the first colored Baptist Church to exist in the city and the site of one of the most tragic bombings during the civil rights movement.

The September 15, 1963 tragedy galvanized Birmingham into action, with protests popping up throughout the city and state as people demanded racial reform.

One of the best ways to learn about the bygone decades, the Church, and the evolution of the city is on one of the district’s many walking tours.

Led by local historians, you’ll learn all about the evangelistic perspective of the Civil Rights movement in Birmingham, pass by eye-opening sculptures, and develop a newfound understanding of the struggle for freedom.

31 – Walk around the Ave Maria Grotto

A whimsical wonderland of miniature buildings, shrines, fountains, waterfalls, ponds, and even tiny figurine people.

The Ave Maria Grotto , made from concrete and donated stones, showcases no less than 125 detailed reproductions of some of the world’s most renowned religious buildings and structures.

Located just a 50-minute drive from Birmingham in the town of Cullman, and nestled into the landscaped hillside of the St. Bernard Abbey gardens, it makes for a great half-day trip for the big smoke.

32 – Bowl a strike at Spare Time Trussville

Looking for a fun place to spend an afternoon with friends? Then head on over to Spare Time Trussville , where you can bowl your heart out and have some laughs while you’re at it.

With a handful of lanes plus billiards tables, a state-of-the-art laser tag arena, and an arcade filled with all the classics (plus some new favorites), not to mention plenty of food and drink to boot, this is the perfect spot to unleash the competitive beast.

33 – Cheer on the Blazers at Legion Field Stadium

No matter what time of year, if you’re in Birmingham and looking for fun things to do — or even just a day trip — make sure you check out Legion Field Stadium .

The historic stadium is home to the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Blazers football team : it’s where they play their games and practice all season round.

Little-known to most, but college football (especially here) can draw larger, most rowdy crowds can most NFL matches. So make sure to join in on the tailgating nation, cheer on the home team, and get into the local sporting spirit!

Affectionately known as the Old Gray Lady, the stadium can seat up to 71,000 people — and when it’s filled, the roar and the energy are palpable.

• Legion Field tickets

34 – Walk around the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame

A Mecca for sports fans, the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame is filled to the brim with stories and over 6,000 pieces of memorabilia from all kinds of Alabama athletes, past and present.

From high school players right up to professional sportspeople, there’s something here for everyone – including the pair of Heisman Trophies won by Pat Sullivan and Bo Jackson (Auburn University athletes).

Be sure not to miss out on the interactive exhibits too, like the one that lets you test your vertical leap.

35 – Splash around at Alabama Adventure & Splash Adventure

On those sizzling summer days, if you’re craving a little cooling-off, look no further than Alabama Adventure !

Tucked away in Bessemer, just 20 minutes from Birmingham, this waterpark is home to a variety of slides and rides for all ages, as well as a lazy river, the Kahuna Wave Park, and plenty of opportunities to dip your toes in the water.

And for those looking to stay dry, the park also boasts has several regular rides like the Little Bumpers bumper cars and high-octane Rampage wooden cooler coaster.

36 – Hear the engines roar at Barber Motorsports Park

Do you have a thing for motorsports and speed? Well, at the Barber Motorsports Park , passions come to life in the form of the 880-acre, multipurpose racing track!

From regular track days where you can sit front row in the bleachers to the Honda Indy Grand Prix which draws in crowds of thousands, several racing events take place at the park.

And, as the name suggests, it’s also home to the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum. Fun fact: finances permitting, you can even rent out the track for your own event!

37 – Feel one with nature at Turkey Creek Nature Preserve and Waterfalls

Located 15 miles north of Birmingham is the quaint Turkey Creek Nature Preserve and Waterfalls , overflowing with natural abundance and beauty.

Visit to see some of the local wildlife up close, from varieties of fish, bats, turtles, and woodpeckers, as well as beautiful wildflowers.

Bring a picnic to enjoy, and afterward, take a scenic walk through the various trails that start out in the parking lot. Most hikes are rated medium, as some have hills and some don’t.

Lastly, take in the small and beautiful waterfalls, and feel the misty breeze right before leaving.

The park is open every day except Monday-Tuesday.

38 – Take a look at the boulders at Moss Rock Preserve

Moss Rock Preserve is located 21 minutes south of Birmingham. The 345-acre park overflows with natural wonders, hiking trails, and climbing opportunities.

If you’re a climber, you’re in for a treat with massive boulders located inside Boulder Field at Moss Rock Preserve, perfect for any level.

If you’re not much of a climber, bring your hiking shoes to explore around 12 miles of hiking trails, zig-zagging throughout the park. Pass under towering trees, impressive and oddly shaped boulders, creeks, and more.

The park is open every day from sunrise to sunset. Parking is available in its 3 parking lots.

39 – Take a seat for a show at the Lyric Theatre

Are you ready for the show of a lifetime in a century-old vaudeville theatre that’s been through millions of dollars worth of delicate reconstruction?

Then grab a ticket for a riveting performance at the Lyric Theatre ! Undeniably one of the finest theatres for live performing arts in Alabama (and, as expected, located in Birmingham’s Theatre District).

The Lyric Theatre showcases a diverse roster that ranges from drama and comedy to dance and music, as well as symphonies, ballets, and operas.

• Lyric Theatre tickets

40 – Feel the rhythm at the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame

The jazz movement was more than music, it was about humanity, and the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame sets out to remember and personify that through fascinating exhibits on some of Jazz’s all-time greatest musicians.

From Louis Armstrong to Ella Fitzgerald, Dizzy Gillespie to Miles Davis and beyond, the history of jazz is on proud display at this unique Birmingham attraction.

And, apart from the museum itself, the top-tapping love of music is shared by educating the new generation too — from Jazz Master Classes to free introductory programs for school kids, the spirit of jazz runs deep.

41 – Grab a drink at the local breweries

Especially relevant to all your summer travelers, if you’re craving a cold and refreshing, then Birmingham’s multiple brewing companies are calling.

Surprisingly, Birmingham is home to some of the South’s most beloved and underrated breweries. So, where to start? Logic suggests grabbing your first drink at the TrimTab Brewing Company , a beloved staple that was awarded Birmingham’s Best Brewery as well as Best Brewery in Alabama (Thrillist).

However, it’s far from the only notable watering hole. Good People Brewery , right next to the Railroad Park, offers a great outdoor space to enjoy your beer and some live music while also offering behind-the-scenes tours; while the Back Forty Beer Co. serves up a killer view of the Sloss Furnaces to complement its craft range.

Still thirsty? Avondale Brewing Company ‘s taproom features over a dozen homegrown blends as well as a dedicated sour room!

42 – Hit the road on a craft beer tour

What better way to taste Birminghman’s craft beers than by having someone take you to all the top spots in one day? With City Brew Tours , you can relax and savor the experience as an expert drives you to the city’s best breweries.

Visit well-known brewpubs such as the TrimTab Brewing Company and Cahaba Brewing Company, for a taste of up to 16 different beers in a single tour. You can also enjoy a delectable lunch paired with your drinks.

These tours take you beyond just a tasting for a behind-the-scenes look into how the beers are made, with your accompanying expert providing valuable facts and insight.

Discover the city of Birmingham through its brews in this safe, informative and fun tour!

43 – Pick up a peculiar souvenir at the Birmingham Oddities

From used doll parts to prosthetic legs, taxidermy, and strangely spectacular local artwork, there’s nothing you can’t find at the quirky little downtown store of Birmingham Oddities .

Make no mistake, however, this is no regular gallery: all of the weird and wacky objects on display are for sale!

So if you’re hunting for some one-of-a-kind souvenirs, this is the place to come – your friends back home will be thanking (or questioning) you for years.

44 – Take a swing at Topgolf

Where VR meets golf meets ice-cold beer (convinced yet?), the Topgolf is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Birmingham.

Families, groups of friends and colleagues can all bond over a game at this unique entertainment complex that has more than 200 games spread across 102 bays over 3 floors – each with their own massive flat-screen TVs so you won’t miss out on any sports action while playing.

Bring your own clubs or use the ones available; once you have a bay, just take a swing and the technology will do the rest! And top it off with a tipple at the rooftop terrace for good measure.

45 – Go skydiving above greater Birmingham!

If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, then there’s no better way to get it than by jumping out of a plane and soaring through the sky.

Skydiving is available throughout greater Birmingham (and beyond), with names like Chattanooga Skydiving Company and Skydive Alabama (to name just a couple) providing experienced instructors who will take care of everything from getting you suited up to landing safely back on solid ground.

The views during your 14,000-foot freefall are simply incredible, and something that will stick with you forever.

And, if you’re wanting to take your experience to the next level, AFF (accelerated freefall) ground courses are available too, which teach you how to skydive yourself!

46 – Be environmentally conscious at Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve

If you’re looking for things to do in Birmingham that deliver a much-needed dose of rest and rejuvenation, then visiting the Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve should be first on your list.

Covering over 1000 acres, this urban nature preserve is home to a wide variety of plant and animal life, as well as almost 12 miles of hiking and biking trails.

What’s more, the staff at Ruffner Mountain are passionate about educating visitors on the importance of conservation and sustainability, so be sure to ask them about their work in these areas.

47 – Join a concert moshpit at Iron City

An old-fashioned music hall and live performance venue, Iron City is one of the coolest places to catch a show in Birmingham, hosting local up-and-comers, traveling superstars, and tribute bands to bygone legends.

But don’t be fooled by its classic appearance: this place has all the features of a modern concert hall, including excellent sound quality and an impressive lighting system (which make its occasional dance parties one hell of a good time).

For the more low-key events, consider grabbing a table at The Grill, where some incredible food complements the spectacle of musicians on stage.

• Iron City tickets

48 – Meet the locals at the Pepper Place Saturday Market

A charming institution in Pepper Place , the Saturday Market is a true community event, held every week from 7am to 12pm (rain or shine) in the Lakeside District.

This market has something for everyone: from fresh produce and artisanal foods to vintage clothing and baked goods, the selection of locally-grown and made treats is second to none

What’s even better? With entertainment often provided by local musicians, the market doubles as a fun shopping experience with family-friendly activities on offer too.

49 – See a play at Birmingham Children’s Theatre

A fixture in the Birmingham community for over 40 years, BCT is a century-old theatre that has been working tirelessly to delight and inspire young audiences through live theatre as well as classes and camps.

Featuring everything from Shakespearean classics to holiday shows and beloved stories like The Little Engine That Could (to name but a few), the list of entertaining performances is diverse and impressive – just check the website to see what’s on!

50 – Hike the Jemison Park Trail to the Old Mill

If you’re looking for a nature escape, look no further than Jemison Park.

Tucked away in the Mountain Brook area, not too far from the zoo, this park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna that make it perfect for a peaceful walk or picnic lunch.

Stunning views and immersive scenery along the shaded woodland trail aside, the highlight of the park has got to be the Old Mill: a historical house landmark that remains a symbol of the city of Mountain Brook.

51 – Solve mysteries in an escape room

Put your heads together to solve the riddles at the award-winning Locked In: The Birmingham Escape Game . With a variety of easy-to-challenging rooms, solve the mysteries inside The Battleship, or The Laboratory.

Crack the codes inside The Big Escape Rooms , where each room has a select few numbers of clues that you have to use to solve the mysteries. Can you escape from a room with only 3 clues?

Breakout Games Birmingham is the number 1 escape room in the area, which includes games for families and friends to do together. With more than 5 escape room themes, you have a few to choose from.

52 – Go old-schooling gaming at the Paramount Bar

What’s better than getting a beer with friends? Hint: getting a beer with friends and a retro bar arcade!

Found over 20th St North in the heart of downtown, Paramount is a rustic, cozy, and popular spot for all-day drinks that also happens to be home to dozens upon dozens of classic arcade games!

With tasty burgers, 20 Beers on Tap, and a full handcrafted cocktail menu, it’s time to grab some pals and sink into an evening of nostalgia at Birmingham’s most beloved barcade.

53 – Watch some baseball at Regions Field

Home to the Minor League Baseball team Birmingham Barons, Regions Field is a great place to spend an afternoon or evening.

The main event aside — being match day, of course — the stadium offers a variety of concessions (including local eats), family-friendly activities like inflatables and face painting, and interactive areas like the St. Vincent’s Youth Sports Zone and Foundry Family Park.

The season typically runs from late March to early September, so be sure to check the website for more details on upcoming events.

• Regions Field tickets

54 – Relax and unwind at a spa

Feel any tension slip away when you step inside Escape Day Spa . Featuring a complete menu with everything from deep tissue massages to hydrafacials and more. You’ll come out feeling refreshed in both mind and body.

Don’t have too much time to get a full treatment at the spa? Head to The Retreat Day Spa , and enjoy a customized, one-hour treatment package, designed to cater to your specific needs.

Treat yourself to a manicure and pedicure as well as a custom massage at Poseidon Spa . Enjoy the oil and moisturizing treatments designed to leave your skin feeling renewed and smooth.

55 – Get a little tipsy at a wine tasting!

You’re on vacation, after all! So take a break from the usual and check out one of Birmingham’s many tasting rooms for a little afternoon delight.

From old standbys like the Hidden Meadow Vineyard (known for its fruity and southern muscadine wines) to new favorites like the Cat-n-Bird Winery , there are plenty of places where you can sample the local flavors while enjoying an impromptu tour from the friendly sommeliers.

Hot tip: rather than worry about having a designated driver, consider booking a pre-organized tour that includes transport to and from your hotel!

56 – Catch a movie at The Sidewalk Moving Picture Festival

Grab the popcorn! If you’re a movie buff, then you’ll love the annual Sidewalk Moving Picture Film Festival .

Held by the eponymous NGO since 1999, the beloved festival lasts a week and screens different movies across seven different venues, highlighting all kinds of local filmmakers, independent artists, and international films.

All the venues are found in the theatre district of Birmingham, making it easy to walk from one place to another and catch as many films as possible – or an easy walk to the nearby restaurants and bars for a post-movie nightcap.

57 – Spend a few hours at The Summit mall

Calling itself an upscale lifestyle center, the 1-million-square-foot Summit mall boasts everything from shopping boutiques (from Saks Fifth Avenue to the Disney Store and Anthropologie) to movie theatres, spa services, and a wide variety of restaurants.

If you get hungry at any time throughout the day, there are a handful of fine-dining restaurants, or, for something quicker, it’s hard to go past the easy eats of Shake Shack or The Cheesecake Factory!

58 – Laugh your socks off at the StarDome Comedy Club

A side-splitting venue on the outskirts of Birmingham in the city of Hoover, the StarDome Comedy Club is just what you need to round out your vacation with a hearty dose of good-natured humor.

Featuring both local and national comedians (and even improv troupes and occasional open-mike nights), there’s something for everyone at this beloved traditional venue turned premier hi-tech institution.

So whether you’re bringing the family or catching up with friends over a cheeky beer, you’ll be grinning ear to ear before night’s end.

• StarDome Comedy Club tickets

59 – Putt around at the finest golf clubs in town

Birmingham is home to some of the finest golf courses in Alabama and, with sunny days nearly year-round, these lush and manicured greens present as a great place to spend an afternoon perfecting your drive.

Not sure where to start? The Highland Park Golf Course , which holds its own as the oldest golf course in the state of Alabama (opened in 1903), has 18-holes just a 5-minute drive from downtown.

The Greystone Golf and Country Club with its 36-holes offer a range of challenging fairways with wonderful scenery to boot, and if you really want to test your skills.

Last but not least, the RTJ Golf Trail at Oxmoor Valley boasts no less than 54 holes, ideal for beginners and experts alike.

60 – See what’s on at the Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex

With over one million square feet of exhibition space, the massive Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex hosts everything from trade shows to concerts and political rallies, not to mention sporting events and no less than seven onsite restaurants.

Located on the northern side of downtown Birmingham, it also makes for an ideal location for networking with friends or clients while taking a break from all the action.

Outside of the halls, there’s ample outdoor space to fly a kite, walk a trail, or catch a game just minutes from the convention complex.

61 – Get your grub on at the best restaurants

Check out a local favorite, John’s City Diner for the perfect breakfast or lunch spot while in Birmingham. This recognizable diner has a wide variety of traditional southern comfort foods, gastropub cuisine, with a few international influences.

If you’re celebrating something special, then look no further than a stop at Half Shell Oyster House of Birmingham known for its New Orlean’s inspired seafood dishes, and the Highlands Bar & Grill , known for seasonal upscale dining.

Other local favorites are the tacos and refreshing drinks at El Barrio , while the Original Pancake House offers comfort, top-tier pancakes, and bonus breakfast options.

62 – Sit front-row for a musical at the Virginia Samford Theatre

If you’ve always loved the theatre — classic theatre — then the near-century-old Virginia Samford Theatre , which earns its stripes as officially Birmingham’s oldest performing arts venue, is a must-visit.

Featuring classic shows, Broadway musicals, and even children’s theatre productions, this intimate venue offers an up-close and personal experience that is perfect for date night or a fun family outing.

Plus, with a wide range of ticket prices to choose from, there’s something for every budget.

63 – Party with a view at the city’s rooftop bars

Drinks, views, and city lights: what more could you want? Birmingham’s rooftop bars offer all of the above (with plenty of socializing to boot), making for a perfect spot to spend a few hours as afternoon transitions into evening.

Looking over Region’s Field, Bar Sebastian is an ultra-secretive rooftop bar that requires a code to get in (text ‘CODEWORD’ to (855) 782-0225 before you go).

For a more straightforward rooftop experience, check out the Moon Shine Bar at the Elyton Hotel (which boasts sweet views of both downtown and Red Mountain) or the 19th-story Roots & Revelry.

Not to be overlooked is The Roof , an aptly-named watering hole on top of the Redmont Hotel on Fifth Ave, as well as the chic and colorful Habitat Feed and Social over in the suburb of Mountain View.

64 – Peer into the paranormal with a ghost walking tour

Every city has a dark side, one that only comes out among the shadows of the night.

So why not add an element of fear into your travel plans with a tour that will take you through the spookily twisted and haunted side of the Magic City?

Laced in mystery and folklore, these eerie excursions pass by churches, hotels, and graveyards, sure to conjure up some goosebumps for even the bravest souls out there.

• ghost tours in Birmingham

65 – Grab the popcorn for a Grand River Drive-In screening

In the mood for a nostalgic night out under the stars? Then head on over to the open-air drive-in for an evening of classic cinema.

With both blockbuster new releases and cult classics playing throughout the week, there’s no shortage of entertainment on offer – and outside of the showtimes, the backyard games, mini-golf course, and Snack Shack remain open for casual hangs and bites.

66 – Roll the dice at the Birmingham Race Course Casino

Consider yourself lucky? Recently cracked opened a positive-sounding fortune cookie?

Then test your luck at the Birmingham Race Course Casino , where visitors can throw a few bucks down casino games, horses, greyhounds, or live sports!

Not feeling especially lucky today? No problem! There’s also a plethora of restaurants, bars, and live music venues at the casino for visitors to unwind in.

Of course, please set a limit and gamble responsibly.

67 – Dance the night away at a nightclub (or kick back at a speakeasy or pub)

Party animals, listen up: it’s no Miami, but there is no shortage of nightclubs in the city of Birmingham that will have you dancing till the sun comes up.

Kickstart the night at Dave’s Pub before moving on to something more upbeat Nana Funks, which is all about beats you can boogie to! Locals love Blue Monkey for late-night grub and a more speak-easy kind of atmosphere, while many head Zydeco for the loud and live music acts.

For more than 50 different types of whiskey, Dram Whiskey Bar has got you covered. And if it’s reputation you’re after, as one of the 33 best bars in America (according to Thrillist), J. Clyde is all about craft beers and smooth ciders.

Whatever mix of bars or clubs you end up at, the one thing is for sure: you won’t have a shortage of options.

68 – Kick off your night fun with some live music

Catch a jazz show at True Story Brewing Co. or if metal, blues, or punk rock music is more your vibe, check their calendar to make your plans.

Feel like it’s just you and the music at Saturn , swaying to the music of local and national artists of different genres. Or step into Oasis Bar for the drink and food deals offered almost daily.

Lovers of true rock music, visit The Nick , a grungy, rock and roll concert venue that has hosted everyone from Kings of Leon to The Red Hot Chili Peppers.

How to get to Birmingham?

Once you arrive at Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport, the best way to get to your hotel or downtown is to book an airport transfer .

When you book an airport transfer, you are relieving yourself of the stress of finding public transportation. Instead, a driver will pick you up promptly at your gate, and transport you easily to your hotel’s door.

Where to stay in Birmingham?

Enjoy a comfortable stay at the Sonesta ES Suites Birmingham , equipped with perfect accommodations for families and friend groups. Stay close to great shopping at The Summit, as well as the Birmingham Botanical Gardens.

Enjoy fresh breakfast when you stay at the Hilton Garden Inn Birmingham , before heading out to the Birmingham Zoo or the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute. When you return, unwind from your sightseeing at The Pavilion Lounge, and order a signature cocktail.

The Hampton Inn & Suites Birmingham is a beautiful hotel centered in the downtown area of Birmingham. Enjoy continental breakfast every morning, and afterward, visit all the main sights nearby such as the Birmingham Museum of Art, and take a stroll through Railroad Park Foundation.

Lounge by the fire pit after a day of sightseeing at the Courtyard by Marriott Birmingham . The sleek and modern hotel features a swimming pool, pet-friendly rooms, and a 24-hour front desk.

• best hotels in Birmingham

Visiting Birmingham on a budget?

Get the most bang for your buck with the Birmingham Area Multi-Attraction Pass !

Choose from the 14 different types of attractions and pay only once for your ticket, which will grant you access to the attractions without waiting in line.

You can choose between a 1 or 2-day pass, and go at your leisure to explore Birmingham, your way.

Where to go next?

Head north towards Tennessee, and visit its amazing cities and attractions. Chattanooga offers visitors a beautiful dose of nature at the Tennessee Riverpark or kayaking down the rapids of the Tennessee River.

Nashville is all about the music, and the first stop is Ryman Auditorium for a good country show. Afterward, head down to the County Music Hall of Fame to see items that belonged to some of the Country’s biggest artists!

In Memphis , get your tickets for the Riverboat Cruise, then afterward go to the historic Stax Museum of American Soul Music. If you want to hop on the music train (literally) check out Mojo Tours to pick up music facts!

Head east towards Atlanta, Georgia , where you can see if you could survive a zombie apocalypse on the Walking Dead Tour. If wine tasting is more your speed, then check out North Georgia’s incredible vineyards on a wine tour!

Final thoughts

With countless fun and adventures to get up to in “The Magic City” – we hope that you spotted your next activity on our list of the best things to do in Birmingham!

From beautiful gardens to world-class museums, and important historical museums – Birmingham has got it all!

Will you be making it there soon? We hope so!

Happy travels!

The Best Things To Do In Birmingham: 25 Top-Rated Attractions & Hidden Gems

Lisa Sammons

Lisa loves animals and has dogs, rats, cats, guinea pigs, and snakes. She is passionate about animal rescue and live music - traveling across the country to see a favorite band is a pretty regular occurrence! Being out hiking in the woods enjoying the scenery with her beloved dogs is another favorite hobby, and also checking out the Pokemon Go scene in whatever city she happens to be in at any given time (coffee and dog leash in hand). You can reach Lisa at [email protected]

More by this Author

Birmingham is one of the largest cities in the South, and it’s full of attractions for locals and tourists alike . Are you looking for great places to take the kids? How about a romantic date night out on the town? Or do you just like exploring all that The Magic City has to offer? Whatever it is you want, Birmingham, Alabama has got it. It’s such a unique place with such a fascinating history that’s unlike anywhere else in the country. Read on to see some of the top Birmingham attractions that are worth a visit.

Top Tourist Attractions in Birmingham

Things to do in birmingham with kids, what to do in birmingham for couples, where to go in birmingham at night, free things to do in birmingham.

A vacation to Birmingham is an absolute delight. It doesn’t matter whether you’re a tourist visiting from another state (or country!) or a newly-arrived local looking to get to know the town better, there’s something for everyone in Birmingham . We’ve got amazing scenery, world-class museums, and a rich history like nowhere else. There are so many great attractions in Birmingham, Alabama!

• Address: 520 16th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203
• Neighborhood: Fountain Heights
• Website: https://www.bcri.org/
• Pro Tip: Make sure to check out the nearby 16th Street Baptist Church while you're in the Civil Rights District. Martin Luther King, Jr. was a frequent speaker at the church, which was the site of a 1963 bombing that killed four young girls.

• Address: 6030 Barber Motorsports Pkwy, Leeds, AL 35094
• Neighborhood: Leeds | Greater Birmingham
• Website: https://www.barbermuseum.org/
• Pro Tip: For a real treat, visit the museum in October during the annual Barber Vintage Festival. This three-day event is one of the largest motorcycle events in the world, and you'll get the chance to see hundreds of vintage bikes.

• Address: 4343 73rd St N, Birmingham, AL 35206
• Neighborhood: Airport Highlands
• Website: https://southernmuseumofflight.org/
• Pro Tip: The museum isn't too far from East Lake Park, a lovely green space with trails and a large lake. It's a great spot to enjoy a picnic lunch!

• Address: 1701 Valley View Dr, Birmingham, AL 35209
• Neighborhood: Five Points South
• Website: https://visitvulcan.com/
• Pro Tip: Hiking here from the Five Points area is a great walk through a scenic part of town if you're up for a stroll.

• Address: 500 17th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203
• Neighborhood: Civil Rights District
• Website: https://www.nps.gov/places/kelly-ingram-park.htm
• Pro Tip: Make sure your phone is charged before you go - you can call 205-307-5455 for a free audio tour of the park. It's extremely informative and provides information on the people behind the statues.

One great thing about Birmingham is that there’s so much for children to enjoy. There are so many family-friendly activities in Birmingham that are just perfect for adults and kids alike , whether you’re looking for educational museums or days in the park.

• Address: 200 19th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203
• Neighborhood: Downtown
• Website: https://www.mcwane.org/
• Pro Tip: There are several restaurants located inside the museum, so you can pick up lunch while you're there if you don't want to leave and come back.

• Address: 1600 1st Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233
• Website: https://railroadpark.org/
• Pro Tip: There's always something going on at Railroad Park, whether you're looking for festivals, concerts, or holiday events. Make sure to keep an eye on the Railroad Park Facebook page for upcoming events.

• Address: 2630 Cahaba Rd, Birmingham, AL 35223
• Neighborhood: English Village
• Website: https://www.birminghamzoo.com/
• Pro Tip: Try to visit early in the morning. Not only will you beat the afternoon crowds, you'll also be more likely to see animals out and about in the cool temperatures of the morning.

• Address: 1221 Montgomery Hwy, Vestavia Hills, AL 35216
• Neighborhood: Vestavia Hills | Greater Birmingham
• Website: https://www.vestavialibrary.org
• Pro Tip: Make sure to visit the rooftop garden! It's a wonderful place to curl up with a book.

• Address: 2130 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd N, Birmingham, AL 35203 | Floor G
• Neighborhood: Druid Hills
• Website: https://www.bct123.org/
• Pro Tip: The second Saturday of each show's season is Pay What You Can day, so even if you aren't able to afford the normal rate, you can still attend!

• Address: 1401 1st Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233
• Neighborhood: Southside
• Website: https://www.milb.com/birmingham/ballpark/regions-field
• Pro Tip: Get seats in the shade if it's a daytime game - it can get hot in the stadium!

Love is always in the air in Magic City. Whether you’re looking for options for a first date to get to know a potential new partner or you’re just looking to add a little spice to an already existing relationship, there are plenty of romantic outings in Birmingham that are just perfect for an intimate outing for two.

• Address: 1214 81st St S, Birmingham, AL 35206
• Neighborhood: Irondale | Greater Birmingham
• Website: https://ruffnermountain.org/
• Pro Tip: Make sure to bring plenty of water with you if you go out on the hiking trails.

Related Stories

This English Style Pub In Athens, Alabama Won Me Over With Cake, Fritters And A Side Of History

These 3 Luxury Airbnbs In Alabama Are Exceptional In Every Sense Of The Word

The Brewery In Alabama That Features One Of The State's Best Music Venues

• Address: 1817 3rd Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203
• Website: https://alabamatheatre.com/
• Pro Tip: Honestly, there's not a bad seat in the house. You can get a great view from just about anywhere here, and the acoustics sound great no matter where you're sitting.

• Address: 114 14th St S, Birmingham, AL 35233
• Website: https://www.goodpeoplebrewing.com/
• Pro Tip: Good People Brewing Company is right across the street from Regions Field, so it's a perfect place to stop by before a baseball game if you'd like to make a double header of it.

• Address: 218 20th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203
• Website: https://www.bistro218.com/
• Pro Tip: Make sure to save room for dessert - the selection here is excellent and absolutely exquisite.

• Address: 1821 2nd Ave N #3112, Birmingham, AL 35203 | Floor 1
• Website: https://www.thepizitz.com/food-hall
• Pro Tip: If you use The Pizitz's parking deck, make sure your car is out by 10:00 p.m. Otherwise, it'll be stuck there until the next morning. The food hall closes at 8:00 p.m., so just make sure to move your car if you head anywhere after eating.

• Address: English Village
• Neighborhood: Mountain Brook | Greater Alabama
• Website: https://www.mtnbrook.org/
• Pro Tip: If you want to make a day of it, check out some of Mountain Brook's other charming villages . These mixed-use developments each have their own personality and draws. Each features great shops and restaurants.

The fun doesn’t end when the sun goes down in Birmingham. There’s tons of nightlife to enjoy here – we’ve got bars, restaurants, breweries, and some phenomenal music venues, all of which stay open late.

• Address: 513 22nd St S, Birmingham, AL 35233
• Website: https://ironcitybham.com/
• Pro Tip: Parking here can be a pain and may require a bit of walking. It may be easier to use a ride-share app to get to the venue.

• Address: 2400 7th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233
• Website: https://www.dreadriver.com/
• Pro Tip: Dread River offers both tours and two-hour mixology classes. Check out the distillery's website to book either.

• Address: 2001 15th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35205
• Neighborhood: Five Points
• Website: https://zydecobirmingham.com/
• Pro Tip: If you come for a show, bring earplugs, especially if you're standing near the stage. This is a small venue and it can get incredibly loud.

What’s better than fun things to do in Birmingham? How about fun free things to do in Birmingham? Money is tight for a lot of travelers right now, and if you’re watching your budget, don’t sweat it! We’ve got tons of free activities in the Magic City that won’t cost you a cent.

• Address: 2000 Reverend Abraham Woods Jr Boulevard, Birmingham, AL 35203
• Neighborhood: Central City
• Website: https://www.artsbma.org/
• Pro Tip: There are free folding chairs available for rent that will allow you to stop and rest while walking through the art gallery.

• Address: 2612 Lane Park Rd, Birmingham, AL 35223
• Neighborhood: Mountain Brook
• Website: https://bbgardens.org/
• Pro Tip: Don't miss the striking Japanese garden! It's one of the loveliest areas of the park, no matter the season.

• Address: 2829 2nd Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233
• Neighborhood: Lakeview
• Website: https://pepperplacemarket.com/
• Pro Tip: Make sure to check the Vendor List on the Market at Pepper Place website if you’re looking for a particular seller, as vendors do change weekly.

• Address: 20 32nd St N, Birmingham, AL 35222
• Website: https://www.slossfurnaces.com/
• Pro Tip: Stop by the visitor's center and grab a self-guided tour map before walking through, as there's a lot to see here.

• Address: 2098 1st Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233
• Neighborhood: South Side of Downtown
• Website: https://www.birminghamrotary.org/rotary-trail
• Pro Tip: The trail is a little short for biking, but it's a great area to stretch your legs, especially if you're traveling with young kids.

Birmingham is one of the largest cities in the south, and there are so many things to see and do here. If you’re heading out with the whole family, make sure to check out some of our favorite things to do in Birmingham with kids . From popular tourist destinations to hidden gems, we’ve truly got it all, so get out and explore the Magic City!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Want more Alabama in your inbox?

Get the latest on things to see, do, and eat around Alabama!

Thank you! You'll receive your first newsletter soon!

An error occured.

More to Explore

Things to do in birmingham.

What is the best time of the year to visit Birmingham?

If you're looking to enjoy the outdoors, the best time to visit Birmingham in the spring or fall. It can get pretty hot in the winter and you may find activities like hiking to be more enjoyable in the cooler seasons.

Are there any famous landmarks in Birmingham?

There are numerous famous landmarks in Birmingham including:

• Vulcan Statue at Vulcan Park
• Sloss Furnaces
• Civil Rights District
• Heaviest Corner on Earth

Is Birmingham safe?

Of course, there can be danger lurking in any large city, but overall, Birmingham, Alabama is considered pretty safe, especially when compared to other cities of a similar size. Many of the safest cities in Alabama are suburbs of Birmingham.

Related Articles

• The Whole Family Could Spend An Entire Day Having A Blast At This Pizza Palace In Alabama
• Enjoy A Sense Of Peace At This Incredible Waterfront Restaurant In Alabama
• This Blink-And-You’ll-Miss-It Town In Alabama Is So Worth Exploring
• You Won't Believe The Views You'll Find At This Incredible Airbnb In Alabama
• These 8 Swoon-Worthy Poolside Escapes Across The U.S. Scream Summer Indulgence
• Here Are The 13 Best LGBTQIA+ Friendly Travel Destinations Across The U.S.
• 13 Bucket List-Worthy Hikes From Every Corner Of The United States
• We’re Dreaming Of A Waterfront Getaway And We Found 12 Perfect Spots In The Midwest

Your browser is not supported for this experience. We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari.

Sarehole Mill, Birmingham

Attractions in and around birmingham.

Come and be amazed by the number of attractions in Birmingham. We've got world-class museums and galleries to explore and rewarding culture and heritage to discover.

How about a visit to our own chocolate factory, Cadbury World , where the world-famous chocolate is made or a visit to the Black Country Living Museum , one of the filming locations for Birmingham based Peaky Blinders - can you pack it all in?

Find ideas for family days out, free things to do in Birmingham , unique experiences you can only do in Birmingham and more...

First time in Brum? These have to be done!

Cadbury world.

There’s so much to see and do in Cadbury World’s chocolatey zones! Uncover a…

Sarehole Mill

There has been a mill on this site since 1542, but the current building dates from the…

Black Country Living Museum

Experience sights, sounds, smells, and tastes of the Black Country as you explore shops…

Warwick Castle

Warwick Castle is one of the most exciting historic locations in Europe, set in the heart…

Castle Bromwich Historic Gardens

Visit one of the only unchanged early 18th century formal Gardens in the UK, Castle…

Explore Top Attractions

Family-friendly attractions.

From day trips to weekend breaks, there’s plenty to pack in and explore with…

Museums & Galleries

Step back in time at living museums or get inspired in vibrant galleries.

Free Things to do in Birmingham

The best free things to do while you’re in Birmingham to help your budget go…

Culture & Heritage

Living museums, historic waterways, buildings and more to explore.

All the best attractions in Birmingham

Birmingham blogs - things to do, 3 things to do in birmingham and the west midlands from 24-30 june.

• 2 minute read

This week, Birmingham and the West Midlands dazzles with a variety of fantastic events! From inspiring art exhibitions to exciting film festivals and thrilling sports, make sure you get involved in the action. Here are some of our top picks! Birmingham Creates: The Open - Across Birmingham until…

A two-day itinerary in Digbeth

• 6 minute read

Welcome to Digbeth, Birmingham's vibrant creative heart! Renowned for its rich industrial heritage, Digbeth is a melting pot of art and culture, offering visitors a unique blend of street art, independent shops, and an electrifying music scene. The area is peppered with innovative eateries, trendy…

100 Days of Creativity: City Curator Highlights, Week 6

• 3 minute read

By Alex Nicholson-Evans, City Curator As I write this we’ve just hit day 33 of the 100 days of Creativity - it really has just flown by! Reflecting on the days just passed, I had the pleasure of experiencing a whole host of the events and activities within the programme. A personal highlight was…

3 Things to do in Birmingham and the West Midlands from 17-23 June

Next week, Birmingham and its surrounding areas are set to dazzle with a variety of fantastic events! From magical musicals to thrilling cricket matches and lively music festivals, make sure you get involved. Here are some of our top picks! The Wizard of Oz, Birmingham Hippodrome - 14-16 June…

Have a Ball: Top Spots to Watch the Euros 2024 in Birmingham

Football fever has officially kicked off in Birmingham, and there’s no better place to catch all the Euros 2024 action than right here in the heart of our bustling city! Whether you're a die-hard fan looking to score the best viewing spot or just eager to soak up the electric atmosphere, Birmingham…

100 Days of Creativity: City Curator Highlights, Week 5

• 4 minute read

I hope you’ve all had a chance to go and visit our flagship outdoor exhibition, Birmingham Creates: The Open. With thanks to the fantastic artists that submitted their work it really is bringing such colour and life to both Snow Hill Square and Victoria Square. Free to visit, and a must as the…

Searching for something?

Ratings Powered By

17 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Alabama

Written by Lana Law and Lura Seavey Updated Sep 26, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Alabama is home to a range of tourist attractions and things to do for all ages and interests. Brush up on your history at several Alabama cities, where you'll find some of the most important Civil Rights monuments , museums, and historic sites. This includes the Civil Rights Institute and Sixteenth Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Montgomery's Civil Rights Monument and National Memorial for Peace and Justice, and Selma's Voting Rights Museum.

Alabama is also a culturally rich region. You can see the birthplace and former creative workspace of musician W.C. Handy, admire architecture and design at the Frank Lloyd Wright Rosenbaum House Museum, and view impressive collections at major art museums in both Montgomery and Birmingham .

Alabama is also full of beautiful natural attractions, especially along the shores of the Gulf of Mexico in Mobile Bay , where tourists will find state parks, nature reserves, and gorgeous sandy beaches . In addition to history and nature, the curious can explore science at the family-friendly McWane Science Center, or behold some of the world's most advanced technology at Huntsville's U.S. Space and Rocket Center.

Find the best places to visit in the state with our list of the top tourist attractions in Alabama.

1. Birmingham Civil Rights Institute and the Civil Rights Historic District

2. uss alabama battleship memorial park, 3. gulf state park, 4. civil rights memorials of montgomery, 5. u.s. space and rocket center, 6. montgomery civil rights landmarks, 7. mcwane science center, 8. mobile bay, 9. frank lloyd wright rosenbaum house museum, 10. w.c. handy home and museum, 11. national voting rights museum and institute, 12. barber vintage motorsports museum, 13. birmingham museum of art, 14. montgomery museum of fine art, 15. university of alabama, 16. cheaha state park, 17. alabama gulf coast zoo.

The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute provides an in-depth look at the events of the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s in both Birmingham and the United States, as well as continuing issues that African Americans have faced since. The galleries feature permanent and temporary exhibits on a variety of topics from violent conflict to segregation.

The struggle that began here in Birmingham was part of a larger social movement that eventually led to changes, and a defining moment was the bombing of the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church on September 15, 1963. This bombing, orchestrated by the Klu Klux Klan, killed four girls and was a tragic catalyst for change, adding urgency to pass the 1964 Civil Rights Act.

The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute sits at the corner of Sixteenth Street and Sixth Avenue North, forming the cornerstone of Birmingham's Civil Rights District , which covers a six-block area. Additional landmarks include Kelly Ingram Park , the Fourth Avenue Business District , and Carver Theater .

Address: 520 16th Street North, Birmingham, Alabama

Official site: www.bcri.org

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Birmingham

The star attraction of the Memorial Park in Mobile is the 1942 USS Alabama Battleship docked along the waterfront. This BB-60 battleship is nicknamed "the Mighty A," and was decommissioned after the end of WWII. You can tour many parts of the ship, including the captain's cabin, bridge, mess hall, and turrets.

The park is also home to the USS Drum , a submarine used during the second World War, which can be toured as well.

Also on-site are a variety of aircraft, including a B-52 bomber and an A-12 Black Bird spy plane, as well as military equipment from various conflicts, including tanks and weapons. The park is a memorial to all those who served in WWII, as well as more recent operations.

Address: 2703 Battleship Parkway, Mobile, Alabama

Official site: www.ussalabama.com

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Mobile

Gulf State Park in Gulf Shores is popular with both campers and day-trippers, offering a wide variety of facilities and more than two miles of white, sandy beaches.

The Nature Center provides free classes and activities, including guided nature walks, animal encounters, fishing lessons, and other fun and educational programs led by naturalists and rangers. Recreational facilities include volleyball, tennis courts, horseshoes, and a swimming pool with a splash pad, as well as bicycle, kayak, and paddle-board rentals and guided Segway tours.

The park also features 25 miles of paved walking trails, also open to bicyclists, and a championship golf course. Tourists making a day trip to Gulf State Park can enjoy all of these amenities for a very low vehicle entrance fee.

The campground, which has nearly 500 full-hookup sites for RVs, is a favorite family vacation spot thanks to its many amenities and things to do.

If you're not interested in camping, more luxurious options are available at The Lodge at Gulf State Park, a Hilton Hotel . The property has recently been completely reconstructed and occupies a premier beachfront location.

Address: 20115 Alabama 135, Gulf Shores, Alabama

Official site: www.alapark.com/gulf-state-park

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Gulf Shores

The Civil Rights Memorial in Montgomery features an exquisite black granite sculpture commemorating those killed during the struggles of the Civil Rights Movement. The memorial stands in a square next to the Civil Rights Memorial Center, where tourists will find educational displays and exhibits, including the Wall of Tolerance.

Another Montgomery landmark is the National Memorial for Peace and Justice , a six-acre space dedicated to African Americans who were victims of lynching and other forms of racial injustice. The memorial includes artwork, sculptures, and monuments, which honor various figures in the Civil Rights movement, as well as a field of 800 monuments each representing a county where lynchings took place.

Address: Civil Rights Memorial, 400 Washington Avenue, Montgomery, Alabama

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Montgomery

The U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville is an exciting attraction for all ages, providing exhibits, interactive experiences, presentations, and one of the world's largest collections of spacecraft on display. A Smithsonian affiliate, the center's exhibits provide visitors with information on everything from the history of the space race and NASA's growth since then to the International Space Station and beyond.

Tourists can experience multimedia presentations at the National Geographic Theater or the Spacedome IMAX, and explore a model of the International Space Station. Visitors also have the chance to see Rocket Park, where 27 rockets and missiles are on display, as well as the gigantic launch vehicles that propel the rockets into space.

Perhaps the most popular things to do at the Space Center, however, are taking turns in one of the museum's simulators. There are two launch simulators, one of which allows the astronaut-in-training to experience 4 Gs of force, a few seconds of weightlessness, and then a free-fall. The kids' version of this gives young astronauts a less intense version, then "lands" on the surface of the moon.

The Hyper Ship simulator uses motion and immersive media to provide a variety of rides, and visitors can also get active on the Mars Climbing Wall. There are also interactive areas for younger kids, where they can explore the surface of Mars and crawl through the space station. The center also offers week-long and single-day camps for kids.

Address: One Tranquility Base, Huntsville, Alabama

Official site: www.rocketcenter.com

Montgomery is home to several important Civil Rights landmarks, which commemorate places and events that were instrumental in the movement. The most famous of these is the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church , which was the meeting place of early Civil Rights activists and once the parish of a young Martin Luther King, Jr., who lived with his family in the parsonage from 1954-1960. Today, it has been restored to display a great deal of their original belongings, and is open to the public as the Dexter Parsonage Museum .

The Rosa Parks Library and Museum is located near the site of Parks' arrest in downtown Montgomery. It contains exhibits that tell her story and outline the public transportation boycott that resulted from her brave act of defiance. Artifacts on display include her original fingerprints from her arrest records, court documents, photographs, and a 1955 Montgomery City Bus, as well as one of the station wagons used during the boycott to transport protesters.

Another important historic site is the Freedom Rides Museum , located in the former Montgomery Greyhound station, which was the site of the 1961 attack on the Freedom Riders who were continuing the movement that Parks began.

Birmingham's McWane Science Center is home to a variety of exhibits and interactive experiences, which encourage both kids and adults to learn through hands-on activities. This popular family tourist attraction explores topics from the natural sciences to the latest technology and allows visitors to participate in their own experiments.

One of the most popular areas of the museum is its aquarium, which is home to many species of ocean and freshwater life, especially those native to the region. This section also looks at the importance of water and water-related science like erosion.

Other museum exhibits include an exploration of the ways that art and technology intersect, as well as a variety of rotating and traveling exhibits. The museum also has an IMAX theater, which offers screenings of various films each day.

Address: 200 19th Street North, Birmingham, Alabama

Official site: www.mcwane.org

Set along the Gulf of Mexico, Mobile Bay is a scenic area of Alabama's coastline. The area has beaches and historic areas, which attract both locals and tourists year-round.

Dauphin Island , located in the Bay, is a barrier island with a small town, which is also called Dauphin Island. This island has several things to see and do, including the historic Fort Gaines, which was established in the early 1800s and became an important outpost during the Battle of Mobile Bay. The island is also home to a freshwater lake, which is popular with swimmers, as well as an Audubon bird sanctuary .

The town of Fairhope is another tourist destination along Mobile Bay, located along its eastern shore. Fairhope Pier is popular for fishing, and the town has many outdoor recreational activities, including golf, tennis, and bicycling.

Nearby, the Weeks Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve provides amateur naturalists with the opportunity to explore diverse habitats. Elevated boardwalks and trails can be explored with a guide or independently.

Along the southeastern shores of Mobile Bay lie Orange Beach and Gulf Shores. Gulf Shores is a top Alabama resort destination, home to plentiful activities for couples, families, and independent travelers.

Rosenbaum House was built by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1939 for newlyweds Stanley and Mildred Rosenbaum. Located in Florence, the house is the only structure in Alabama designed by Wright. It is constructed of cypress, glass, and brick. The Usonian design features a flat, multi-level roof, and board and batten walls.

The house has its original Wright-designed furniture. The Rosenbaums were the only owners and occupants of Rosenbaum house until 1999, when it was purchased by the City of Florence and restored. It is the only house of Wright's in the southeast that is open to the public.

Address: 601 Riverview Drive, Florence, Alabama

Official site: http://wrightinalabama.com/

Located in Florence, the W.C. Handy Home and Museum is housed in the log cabin where this iconic musician was born and lived. Known as the " father of the blues ," Handy lived here when he wrote several of his most famous songs, including Beale Street Blues and Memphis Blues .

Visitors are able to see original sheet music hand-written by the artist, as well as other personal papers and artifacts. Collections on display also include several musical instruments, including his trumpet and piano, which he used while writing these songs.

Official site: https://www.wchandymuseum.org

Address: 620 West College Street, Florence, Alabama

National Voting Rights Museum and Institute, located in Selma, explores the struggle for voting rights for American citizens, namely women and African-Americans. The museum is located at the site of the tragic 1965 "Bloody Sunday" attack on protesters who were marching from Selma to Montgomery.

Exhibits highlighting the lives and accomplishments of important African-American political and social figures are featured throughout the museum, including Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr., Reverend Jesse Jackson, and President Barack Obama. Additional exhibits focus on specific locations where monumental vote-related Civil Rights events occurred, like Albany, GA; Greenwood, MS; and Selma.

There are also displays that take a closer look at more general issues and events, including women's suffrage, non-violent protest, and extremist organizations like the KKK.

Address: 6 US Highway 80 East, Selma, Alabama

Official site: http://nvrmi.com/

The Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum is home to a collection of more than 1,400 motorcycles, from some of the earliest and rarest models to modern machines. Around half of the collection is on display in the museum, and it is regularly rotated, so true aficionados will want to consider a repeat visit.

The collection, formed by former race car driver George Barber, gained notoriety shortly after the museum's opening in 1995, when several bikes were loaned to the Guggenheim Museum in New York for their exhibit, "Art of the Motorcycle."

A car lover as well, Barber's collection includes rare and coveted vehicles, including several models of Lotus. In addition to the museum itself, the grounds are home to a 930-acre park, which features a proving ground and 2.38-mile race track open to the public. Here, tourists can watch major auto manufacturers test new vehicles or even film a product reveal video.

Address: 6030 Barber Motorsports Parkway, Birmingham, Alabama

Official site: www.barbermuseum.org

Regarded as the finest art museum in Alabama, The Birmingham Museum of Art features an extensive permanent collection, as well as changing exhibits. Among the permanent collection are examples of ancient and international folk art and fine art, including decorative arts.

The African gallery contains a variety of historic and contemporary work, ranging from traditional figures and ritual headdresses to fine beadwork and batik. The Asian gallery includes some of the museum's oldest artifacts, including bronzes and ancient earthenware.

The largest part of the permanent collection is European art, including fine art by artists like Pissarro and van Rijn and a huge selection of decorative arts, including silverwork, furniture, and porcelain.

The museum also hosts multiple temporary exhibits, which feature various themes, media, or artists and change regularly. The tiered grounds feature the Charles W. Ireland Sculpture Garden and botanical displays.

Address: 2000 Rev Abraham Woods, Jr. Boulevard, Birmingham, Alabama

Official site: www.artsbma.org

The Montgomery Museum of Fine Art is home to a large permanent collection, which focuses on American art. Among its most prized works are examples of etchings, watercolors, drawings, engravings, and woodcuts, which are remarkable for their preservation, a difficult task for paper-based media.

Prominent American artists like John Marin and Winslow Homer are featured, and there is an extensive exhibit dedicated to regional art and folk artists, with examples ranging from crafts to paintings.

Other areas of note include the African art collection, examples of fine porcelain in the decorative arts gallery, and a display of glassworks by leaders in the craft. The museum also hosts educational programs for both adults and children, as well as traveling exhibits from other museums.

Address: One Museum Drive, Montgomery, Alabama

Official site: http://mmfa.org/

The University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa began in 1827 and by 1831 had seven buildings on campus. Today, the campus is home to an art gallery; 50-acre arboretum; pre-Civil War classroom; two museums; and the Gorgas House, which now serves as a museum.

The Gorgas House , named for a former university president, General Josiah Gorgas, was built in 1829 as the first structure completed on the campus by renowned architect William Nichols. It is also one of only four structures that survived the burning of the university during the Civil War. Today, the house serves as a museum with collections of antiques and Gorgas family memorabilia.

The Alabama Museum of Natural History is located on campus in Smith Hall. Exhibits include displays from the Age of Dinosaurs, the Coal Age, and Ice Age. Visitors can also view the Hodges meteorite, the only meteorite known to have struck a human.

The Paul W. Bryant Museum traces the history of the University of Alabama football tradition back to its beginning in 1892. The collections highlight other sports played by university athletes as well.

Official site: www.ua.edu

Most people think of the Gulf of Mexico and beaches when they think of recreational opportunities in Alabama, but the inland areas and their unique ecosystems are well worth a look. Cheaha State park, Alabama's oldest park, is a wonderful place to visit to experience the hill country of Alabama.

Home to the state's highest peak, Cheaha Mountain (2,407 feet), this nearly 2,800-acre area is full of recreational opportunities. Camping, RVing, hiking, biking, and ATVing all top the list of things to do in the park.

Cheaha State Park is also chock-full of waterfalls just waiting to be explored on a steamy summer afternoon. The park is adjacent to the 392,567-acre Talladega National Forest, and several major trails traverse both areas.

The park makes a great weekend getaway from Birmingham or Atlanta. Accommodation for those not interested in camping can be found in historic lodges, A-frame chalets, and cabins.

Official site: https://www.alapark.com/parks/cheaha-state-park

This small zoo is home to over a hundred species, and is emerging as a respected safe-haven for endangered and threatened species. The residents here represent a surprisingly diverse population of mammals, birds, and reptiles, many of which were once abandoned animals who needed a second chance.

The primate exhibit is a top attraction, featuring more than 50 animals including spider, squirrel, and Capuchin monkeys, as well as Hamadryas baboons and marmosets. There are also several big cats including two Bengal tigers, a black leopard, and an African lion among others. Other mammals include an American black bear, an American alligator, a Eurasian lynx, and camels.

The zoo is also home to a selection of birds, from species like the umbrella cockatoo and Australian kookaburra, to flamboyant peacocks. Reptiles include tortoises, snakes, lizards, and iguanas.

Among the zoo's most popular programs are its Animal Adventure experiences, which give visitors the opportunity to get up close to some of the zoo's most popular residents. Ages three and older are welcome to sign up to meet kangaroos, lemurs, and two-toed sloths. Guests opting for the lemur adventure can even cuddle with the friendly critters – that is, if they aren't using you as a jungle gym!

There is also a petting zoo, where even the youngest visitors can meet and feed the gentlest of the animals, including sheep, deer, and goats.

Official site: http://www.alabamagulfcoastzoo.com/

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Civil Rights in the South: Tourists can also find several historic sites in the neighboring states of Georgia and Mississippi , which each have many landmarks found on the Civil Rights Trail. Among the top tourist attractions in Atlanta, Georgia are the King Center, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Birth Home, and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights. Jackson, Mississippi is also home to several major attractions , like the Medgar Evers Home Museum, the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum, and important sites along the Mississippi Freedom Trail.

The Gulf Coast: You may not immediately think of white-sand beaches when you think of Alabama, but the southern coast is home to some of the best resorts in the state. Many of these can be found in the vacation paradise of the Gulf Shores, where families and couples alike can find a wide range of things to see and do, including boat tours in the Gulf of Mexico. Beach lovers can also explore the sandy shores and attractions in Pensacola, Florida, where tourists flock for both day trips and ocean-side vacations.

More on Alabama

• Birmingham City Council

Birmingham, Alabama: Putting People First

• Arlington House
• Birmingham Museum of Art
• Boutwell Auditorium
• Community Development
• Economic Development
• Fire Department
• Legion Field
• Municipal Courts
• Negro Southern League Museum
• Parks and Recreation
• Police Department
• Sloss Furnaces
• Youth Services

Press Releases

Mayor announces changes to birmingham police department command staff.

Mayor Randall L. Woodfin has announced a reorganization of the Birmingham Police Department Command Staff.

Mayor Woodfin has appointed Lt. Rodarius Mauldin as Deputy Chief of Administration.

The appointment takes effect immediately.

Mauldin began his law enforcement career in 2005 with the Alabama Board of Pardons and Parole, where he served as a probation officer and investigator. He joined the Birmingham Police Department in 2010, serving in various capacities over the years including as a patrol officer, community project coordinator, dignitary protection, detective and public information officer. He played a significant role while assigned to the Hiring and Recruiting Unit. Most recently he has served as Executive Assistant to the Assistant Chief of Police.

The Deputy Chief of Administration is a newly created role in the department’s command staff. Mauldin will join Chief of Police Scott Thurmond, Deputy Chief of Special Operations Michael Pickett, and Deputy Chief of Patrol Operations Onree Pruitt.

Both the positions of Assistant Chief of Police and Deputy Chief of Investigative Operations have been vacated. The mayor wishes to thank Assistant Chief La’Quaylin Parhm Mack and Deputy Chief Shelia Frazier-Finney for their dedicated service in these positions.

The Deputy Chief of Investigative Operations will be announced at a later date.

• City Council
• City Directory

Covering events and issues from every neighborhood in Birmingham, we take you inside the biggest happenings in your community.

Terms Of Use and Privacy Statement Credits -->

© Copyright 2024 City of Birmingham, Alabama

• Anniston/Gadsden

10 quirky Alabama attractions worth a trip

• Published: Jun. 24, 2024, 9:54 a.m.

Why cross the Atlantic Ocean when you can see a replica of Stonehenge close to home in Elberta, Alabama? Kelly Kazek

• Amber Sutton

If you’ve got an itch to see something out of the ordinary, there are plenty of quirky attractions throughout the state that are worth a visit.

From the Tinglewood trail in Montevallo , where you can take in some carved works of art while getting in a walk; to the (fictional) town of Spectre in Millbrook , home to the remaining set of Tim Burton’s “Big Fish” as well as the Ave Marie Grotto , which attracts visitors from across the country every year, and so many more, there are so plenty of one-of-a-kind attractions in Alabama.

In fact, the hardest part might be deciding which one to visit first. So with that in mind, here’s a look at 10 quirky Alabama attractions you need to see.

Dinosaurs in the woods at Barber Marina. (Photo by Wil Elrick)

Dinosaurs in the Woods

You can expect to find plenty of creatures living in Alabama’s woods, but in Elberta, Ala., you can also expect to find dinosaurs hidden among the trees thanks to a quirky (and free) attraction that’s proven to be a prehistoric hit with visitors of all ages. Dinosaurs in the Woods consists of a life-size Brontosaurus, T. Rex, Stegosaurus and Triceratops, made from fiberglass by artist Mark Cline. Located along the road leading to the Barber Marina, the dinosaurs can be tricky to spot despite their size, making finding them half the fun.

READ MORE: Free ways to entertain kids

These fake trees, created by director Tim Burton, are the only ones to remain on Jackson Lake Island, Alabama. They were built along with the set of a small town for the 2003 film "Big Fish." Kelly Kazek

The (fictional) Town of Spectre

For movie buffs and fans of Tim Burton’s film “Big Fish,” a visit to the fictional town of Spectre on Jackson Lake Island in Millbrook, Ala., is a must. The one-of-a-kind attraction, which costs $3 per person, allows visitors to walk around several parts of the “Big Fish” set, including different houses, large cement trees and even a chapel -- which is now home to a herd of friendly goats that live on the island -- that were left behind after filming was complete.

READ MORE: Alabama roadside attractions you have to visit

Dozens of coon dogs have been buried in the Key Underwood Memorial Coon Dog Graveyard since the first dog, Troop, was buried at the site of what was a popular hunting camp in 1937. The cemetery, located west of Tuscumbia in northwest Alabama, bills itself as the only cemetery of its kind in the world. Stan Diel/AL.com

The Key Underwood Coon Dog Memorial Graveyard

If you’re a fan of visiting cemeteries, The Key Underwood Coon Dog Memorial Graveyard in Tuscumbia, which bills itself as the only cemetery in the world dedicated to the burial of purebred coon dogs, is one to see. The first dog, Troop, was buried in the graveyard that was formerly a popular hunting camp in 1937. Today, it’s home to more than 300 graves for coon dogs from all over the country.

READ MORE: Here’s what you can find at the Coon Dog Cemetery

Located in Elberta, Ala., Bamahenge is a full-size replica of Stonehenge (yes, the prehistoric monument in Wiltshire, England) made from fiberglass by artist Mark Cline. Bamahenge has been around since 2012, and it’s become a popular stop despite being a little out of the way for most folks. The good news? It’s located along the same road as Dinosaurs in the Woods, also made by Cline, so it’s like you’re getting a two-for-one deal on free, one-of-a-kind attractions.

READ MORE: How Bamahenge was built

The sign at Unclaimed Baggage in Scottsboro.

Unclaimed Baggage

Since 1970, more than a million people from all over the country have visited Unclaimed Baggage Center in Scottsboro. The 50,000-square-foot facility purchases orphaned suitcases from major airlines and sells the contents found within, which can be ordinary items like clothing and electronics or more unexpected finds like emeralds and other collectibles. That means you never know what you’ll find on its shelves. (But chances are high, you’ll get a good deal whatever it is.)

READ MORE: Why you should check out the Unclaimed Baggage museum

The Drive-Thru Museum of Wonder, located off Highway 431 in Seale, Ala., was created by nationally-renowned folk artist Butch Anthony in 2014. It displays an array of Butch’s work in addition to found and gifted curiosities. Amber Sutton

The Drive-Thru Museum of Wonder

When it comes to quirky Alabama attractions, The Drive-Thru Museum of Wonder , located off Highway 431 in Seale, Ala., is the first thing that comes to mind for many folks, and for good reason. Created by nationally-renowned folk artist Butch Anthony in 2014, the museum, which is mostly housed in shipping containers with viewing windows so visitors can see the displays without ever having to leave their vehicles, showcases a wide range of Butch’s work in addition to antiques and some one-of-a-kind curiosities.

The city of Enterprise is home to more than 25 boll weevil statues. Erin Grantham

The Boll Weevil statues of Enterprise

If you’re a fan of oddball statues, or maybe just a fan of boll weevils, then a trip down Weevil Way in Enterprise could be a good match for you. The quirky attraction, inspired by the boll weevil’s role in inadvertently helping to create the town’s peanut industry, features more than 25 weevil statues tied into local businesses, including a McDonald’s weevil, known as Ronald McWeevil, a statue by the local funeral home known as the “Angel of Light” and many more.

READ MORE: Roadside attractions that tell their towns’ histories

The Ave Maria Grotto in Cullman is filled with miniature artworks made of stone and concrete. Most were the lifetime work of Brother Joseph Zoettl, a Benedictine monk of St. Bernard Abbey. (AL.com file photo/Bernard Troncale)

Ave Maria Grotto

Located in the old quarry grounds at St. Bernard Abbey in Cullman, Ave Maria Grotto is a landscaped hillside that showcases more 125 miniature reproductions, made of stone, cement and other found materials, of some of the world’s most well-known religious structures, including St. Peter’s Basilica, scenes from ancient Jerusalem and the Tower of Babel along a two-block pathway. The one-of-a-kind attraction is on the National Register of Historic Places and attracts visitors from across the country each year.

READ MORE: Roadside museums worth a visit

The Tinglewood walking trail in Montevallo's Orr Park displays one-of-a-kind works of art crafted from more than 50 trees by local artist Tim Tingle. This is Alabama

Tinglewood Trail

Within Orr Park in Montevallo, you’ll find the Tinglewood walking trail , which features more than 50 trees with whimsical and creative carvings by local artist Tim Tingle along a paved, half-mile pathway. Tingle started the trail in 1993 and has been carving faces, animals, mystical creatures and more into the dead portions of mature, living cedar trees ever since, making the park a fun place for visitors of all ages to get in some steps while enjoying one-of-a-kind works of art.

Started in the 1970s, the Rock Zoo in Fackler, Ala., features a collection of folk art-style animal sculptures. The painted stone sculptures range from the original bull-- created by the original zookeeper Leonard Dawson in 1970s using two large boulders left by a road crew -- to turtles, an elephant, sea creatures, a bear and many more. Haley Laurence

RELATED ARTICLES • al .com

8 free (or cheap) ways to entertain Alabama kids this summer Jun. 10, 2024, 8:59 a.m.

7 clever Alabama roadside attractions that help tell their towns’ histories Jun. 1, 2024, 9:09 a.m.

When it comes to quirky attractions in Alabama, you can’t leave out The Alabama Rock Zoo in Fackler in northeast Alabama. Started in the 1970s, the Rock Zoo features a collection of animal sculptures made out of (you guessed it) rocks. The painted stone sculptures range from the original bull-- created by the original zookeeper Leonard Dawson in 1970s using two large boulders left by a road crew -- to turtles, an elephant, sea creatures, a bear and many more, making it a fun and inexpensive place for families to spend an afternoon.

READ MORE: This Alabama zoo is like no other

If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

Cheap Must-See Tourist Attractions in Each State

Posted: April 13, 2024 | Last updated: April 13, 2024

A Virtual Cross-Country Tour

Whether you're in the midst of planning a road trip or looking at a map for the first time to decide where to go, you can count on finding plenty of free or cheap attractions across the country. We've taken an in-depth look at tourist destinations and found one site in every state — and Washington, D.C. — that's sure to delight travelers on a budget.

The search factored in ways to reduce out-of-pocket expenses, whether in rural or urban settings. We did not set a specific price ceiling for the attractions, but where fees are imposed, they're generally less than $25 for adults and cheaper for children, seniors, military members, and sometimes for students; stated price ranges reflect these discounts or different tour options. 

Alabama: Civil Rights History

Birmingham is home to many inexpensive museums and historical sites. The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute costs $15 for adults, but is free or discounted for seniors, college students, and youth. Across the street, the 16th Street Baptist Church offers tours for $10 a person for adults; entrance to the church is by donation.   

Alaska: Denali National Park and Dog Sledding

Dog-sled teams are a symbol of the region and an important part of the area's history, and still used in Alaska. You can learn about the sled dogs at the Denali Kennels during the summer or winter. The kennels are located within the Denali National Park , which charges a $15 entrance fee for visitors 16 and older.

Arizona: The Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is a destination for travelers from around the world, and it's worth fighting the summertime crowds in the South Rim area. The visit can be as inexpensive as you make it; camping and grocery stores are friends to anyone on a budget. Take the time for a short hike, along the South Kaibab Trail to Cedar Ridge (1.5 miles) or Skeleton Point (3 miles), for example, and enjoy stunning views of the canyon from a different perspective.

Related:   19 Money-Saving Tips for Visiting National Parks

Arkansas: Little Rock Landmarks

The capital of Arkansas is filled with historic sites, shopping options, restaurants, and more. Visitors can see a lot by taking the Downtown Little Rock One-Day Walking Tour . The tour includes the Old State House Museum, the River Market District, the Clinton Library, and more.

California: San Francisco

Although the cost of living in San Francisco may be high, there are some surprisingly cheap and fun attractions to experience in the city. Watch a Giants' game for free from the waterfront promenade; tour the Mission District's street murals; walk across the Golden Gate Bridge; make faces at the sea lions at Pier 39; or take in a view of the city by riding up the glass elevator the Westin St. Francis hotel in Union Square. The rest of the Golden State is also packed with budget attractions . 

For more great travel guides and vacation tips, please sign up for our free newsletters .

Colorado: Mesa Verde Cliff Dwellings

Mesa Verde National Park in Montezuma County is a must-see if you're in southwest Colorado. Entrance to the park costs $30 a vehicle from May through September ($15 otherwise) and is valid for seven days; guided tours for the Cliff Palace, Balcony House, and Long House cost $8 a person. This extra fee gives you access to the largest archeological preserve in the country, with structures that are at least 700 years old.

Connecticut: Gillette Castle

The Gillette Castle State Park in East Haddam boasts a 24-room mansion that looks like a medieval castle. Completed in 1919, the state of Connecticut bought the grounds and castle from the estate of William Hooker Gillette (a distinguished thespian of the time) in 1943. The site is fun, interesting, and enjoyable for all ages, according to TripAdvisor reviews. Parking and entrance to the park are free, but there's a $6 fee for ages 13 and up and $2 for ages 6 to 12 to enter the castle. 

The One Absolutely-Can't-Miss, Must-Do Thing in Every State

Delaware: Hagley Museum and Library

The Hagley Museum and Library in Wilmington has something for everyone. History buffs can learn about the evolution of the DuPont Co. while nature lovers will enjoy a tour of the estate. Entrance for children aged 6 to 14 is $10, adults pay $20, and students and seniors pay $16.

District of Columbia: The Smithsonian Museums

When you're in the nation's capital, the range of free and cheap things to do is almost endless. The Smithsonian museums are mandatory, and each of the constituent parts offers something different (e.g., air and space, natural history, American art).

Florida: The Everglades

Everglades National Park , the largest tropical wilderness in the United States, is just an hour west of Miami. The entry fee is $30 per car and it's good for seven days, leaving plenty of time to explore the park's fantastically diverse environment, which includes mangrove swamps, freshwater sloughs, and cypress forests. The park is home to a dazzling array of wildlife, ranging from crocodiles, manatees, and panthers to more than 350 species of birds and 300 species of fresh and saltwater fish.

Georgia: Historic Savannah

One of Savannah's biggest attractions — a stroll through the city's downtown historic district — costs absolutely nothing. With cobblestone streets, beautiful churches, and many places to stop and grab a beer or coffee, this is a lovely way to spend an afternoon. If strolling isn't your thing, hop aboard downtown's free shuttle, which will ferry you around the historic district.

Hawaii: Volcanoes National Park

Lying on the beach, hiking, and snorkeling are all favorite pastimes in Hawaii, and none cost much. Visitors to the Big Island should stop by Hawaii Volcanoes National Park for a chance to get up close to an active volcano. Enter with a vehicle for $30 (good for seven days) and drive to the lookout points. There also are hikes for any fitness level or desired duration.

Idaho: Peregrine Fund World Center for Birds of Prey

Near Boise, the Peregrine Fund's center is an 850-acre site with breeding facilities, offices, a research library, and educational facilities. Visitors enjoy getting a close look at, and learning about, birds of prey from around the world. Entrance is $7 to $12 a person.

Illinois: Lincoln Park Zoo

The Lincoln Park Zoo in northern Chicago is free. New residents include three African lion cubs born this year: Pesho, Sidai, and Lomelok. Parking at the zoo can be costly, but four city buses stop near or at the entrance and the Brown or Purple rapid transit lines can drop you off at Armitage station, about 1 mile away.

Indiana: Indianapolis Motor Speedway

Racing enthusiasts shouldn't miss their chance to visit the home of the Indianapolis 500 and the Auto Racing Hall of Fame. "Kiss the Bricks" tours take visitors on a 30-minute narrated trip around the 2.5 mile track; $25 for adults, $24 for seniors, $15 for kids 6-15. Admission to the speedway's museum is $15 for adults, $14 for seniors, and $8 for kids 6-15.  

Iowa: The High Trestle Trail

The High Trestle Trail just north of Des Moines is 25 miles long, but you can skip to the main attraction — a 13-story bridge over the Des Moines River between the towns of Madrid and Woodward. The trail is free to explore, and the half-mile-long bridge is a work of art, with intentionally placed steel cribbing and blue LEDs that light up the structure at night.

Kansas: Botanica

Wichita's Botanica gardens are a favorite attraction for residents and tourists alike. Admission is $8 to $10, and there are 29 different gardens to explore, including one inspired by Shakespeare. Stroll across the meadows and through woodlands, or amble about the indoor greenhouse or butterfly house, the peony garden or the children's garden.

Kentucky: Maker’s Mark Whiskey Tour

A little more than an hour's drive south of Louisville, the Maker's Mark distillery offers a tour and tasting for $22. You'll learn about the history of bourbon and how it's made today. While visiting, you can buy a bottle of Maker's White, a 1-day-old white whiskey. Some say the unaged spirit is more novelty than anything else. 

Louisiana: New Orleans

With more than 9 million visitors a year, New Orleans is one of the world's most popular tourist destinations and it’s also full of free fun . Keep things cheap by enjoying the street music and take a free tour through Algiers Point, the Besthoff Sculpture Garden, and many cemeteries. The India House Hostel is just a few minutes from a streetcar stop and offers dorm or private rooms from $31 to $75 per night. 

Maine: Bowdoin College Museum of Art

Free to the public, the Bowdoin College Museum of Art features a mix of permanent and special exhibits. The painting and drawing collection dates back to 1811, but over the years, donations and acquisitions have added more than 20,000 pieces in a myriad of styles and media from around the world.

Maryland: Fort McHenry

If you're stopping in Baltimore , don't miss the chance to visit Fort McHenry . The inspiration behind "The Star-Spangled Banner," the fort is accessible by public transportation. Entrance is $15 for those 16 or older, and there are free daily ranger talks throughout the day.

Massachusetts: The Freedom Trail

Take a history-filled adventure and walking tour of Boston along the 2.5-mile Freedom Trail , which winds through the city's neighborhoods, with stops at more than 16 sites; many are free to enter. Purchased online, guided tours cost $8 for children, $17 for adults, and $15 for seniors or students, but you can enjoy a free self-guided tour by reading information at each site and using the official Freedom Trail Foundation app.

Michigan: Sleeping Bear Dunes

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park offers fun for children and parents alike. Climb, roll, and sled down the sandy embankments, then go for a dip in Lake Michigan. Entrance to the National Park is $25 a vehicle for a 7-day permit. Keep other costs in check with our money-saving tips for visiting national parks .

Minnesota: Mall of America

The Mall of America is filled with more than just retail stores — there's an aquarium, movie theater, house of comedy, Nickelodeon Universe theme park, mirror maze, and Lego store with a 34-foot Lego robot. Although walking around the mall is free, you're not likely to leave empty handed. Check the Mall of America's website for current promotions from retailers.

Mississippi: Vicksburg National Military Park

The Vicksburg National Military Park commemorates the battle of Vicksburg and the larger Vicksburg Campaign of the Civil War. Reviews on TripAdvisor give high marks to the audio tour and the historical artifacts, including a gun boat, cannon display, and fortifications. The visitor center offers a 20-minute orientation video. Entrance is $20 a vehicle, and a guided tour (in your car) costs another $60 for up to two hours.

Missouri: The Nelson-Atkins Art Museum

In the Missouri side of Kansas City, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is free for all visitors, which also offers free guided drop-in tours. There's an outdoor sculpture garden, visiting exhibits, and a permanent collection with works of art from around the world and throughout history. Reviews on TripAdvisor praise the museum for its variety of art and say that there's something for everyone.

Montana: Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks

In Montana, the outdoors draws more visitors than any museum. Between Yellowstone ($35 entrance fee, good for seven days) and Glacier National Park ($35 entrance fee, good for seven days), there's no way to choose a "best" destination, so go with the one that suits your itinerary and interests.

Nebraska: Gene Leahy Mall

Walk through Gene Leahy Mall in the central part of Omaha and enjoy the new gathering space and play space. Hear concerts at the amphitheater during the summer and marvel at the thousands of lights adorning the park in winter. One highlight not to be missed: two large slides that children and adults like to race down.  

Nevada: Las Vegas

Las Vegas is one of Nevada's most popular destinations, and for travelers with some self-control it's an inexpensive destination. Shows, drinks, and museums are free or cheap in Vegas . If you're not set on a specific hotel, even accommodations at the big names are relatively affordable.

New Hampshire: Portsmouth's Harbour Trail

Tour the historic sites in Portsmouth by following the Harbour Trail . Choose among the three sections — downtown and the waterfront, the commercial and residential South End, or State Street to Haymarket Square — or take it all in. 

New Jersey: The Atlantic City Boardwalk

Atlantic City lacks the glamour of Las Vegas, but boy, does it have history. The iconic boardwalk was a first in the United States; this is the birthplace of salt water taffy; and the city was known as "the world's playground" during the two decades before World War II. Sign up for the casinos' loyalty programs; even if you don't gamble, they offer benefits off the floor, such as discounted parking.

New Mexico: Carlsbad Caverns

The Carlsbad Caverns beneath the Guadalupe Mountains contain more than 117 limestone caves. Entrance to the park costs $15 for those 16 and older (free for younger visitors), which includes self-guided tours through the caves; ranger-led tours cost an extra $8 and up for adults and $4 and up for children, but only the King's Palace tour is currently offered. Time your visit to coincide with the bats' flight out of the caverns in the evening and you can catch the free Bat Flight talk by a park ranger.

New York: Big Apple Freebies

A well-known secret among New Yorkers who regularly show the sights to out-of-towners, the free Staten Island ferry floats right past the Statue of Liberty for a view of the iconic lady. Many of the city's top attractions, such as Central Park, Grand Central Terminal, and Rockefeller Center, are free to enter . Summer visitors can take advantage of the no-cost concerts and free movies presented in parks throughout the five boroughs.

North Carolina: The Blue Ridge Parkway

Drive the scenic 252-mile Blue Ridge Parkway for total immersion in the Blue Ridge Mountains and make pit stops along the way. Buy a treat at the Mast General Store (the oldest continuously operating general store in the country) in Valle Crucis, ride horseback through the woods on the Dutch Creek Trail in Sugar Grove, and take home a memento from the famous Folk Art Center in Asheville.

North Dakota: Heritage Center and Museum

Located next to the capitol building in Bismarck, the  Heritage Center and State Museum is one big, free history lesson. Looking back at prehistoric times through to the era of the Northern Plains Indians to the present and on to the future, you'll get an extensive education about the area you're visiting. This is a must-see attraction, according to reviews on TripAdvisor.

Ohio: Aviation Heritage Park

Dedicated to the Wright brothers and the poet Paul Laurence Dunbar, the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historic Park offers visitors free tours and entrance to several museums and historic buildings. See Dunbar's home, the Wright brothers' bicycle shop, a flight simulator, and a historic flying field.

Oklahoma: The Conoco Museum

In Ponca City in northern Oklahoma, the Conoco Museum will appeal to some travelers. Admission is free, and the museum gives an in-depth history of the oil and gas company ConocoPhillips, the state's oil industry, and the oil and gas industry in general.

Oregon: The Portland Rose Garden

The Portland International Rose Test Garden , a.k.a. the Portland Rose Garden, boasts more than 650 varieties of roses and more than 10,000 flowers when in full bloom (that would be June). Entrance is free, as are the daily tours at 1 p.m. from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.

Pennsylvania: Gettysburg Military Park

Visit the battlefield and learn about a fraught era in American history at the Gettysburg National Military Park . The park and museum are free to enter. Once inside, you can watch the film "A New Birth of Freedom" narrated by Morgan Freeman and see the Battle of Gettysburg Cyclorama painting, but there is a fee for the movie: $13.75 for children (ages 6-12) and $18.75 for adults.

Rhode Island: The Waterfire Bonfire Display

An outdoor art performance that's become a tradition in Providence, WaterFire features more than 80 bonfires that burn along the city's waterways mostly on Friday and Saturday evenings in the spring, summer, and fall. Walk along the river and enjoy the scene with the crowd, which can reach 100,000 people.

South Carolina: Historic Charleston

Charleston is a charming city filled with history — this is where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. It’s also a city filled with affordable fun. Take a name-your-own-price tour through Charleston with Free Tours by Foot , which offers several thematic tours, including ghost, architecture, food, and Civil War.

South Dakota: Mount Rushmore and the Badlands

Many of South Dakota's popular sites are clustered in the state's southwest. Wall Drug Store, the Badlands , Mount Rushmore ,  Custer State Park, and The Mammoth Site can all be visited over several days. The national and state parks aren't expensive, and if you camp out, the total cost of the trip will be fairly cheap.

Tennessee: Nashville

You can't visit Nashville without catching a few live shows. There are free summer concerts in Centennial Park; free bluegrass on Sundays at the Station Inn; and a wide variety of free performances at the Frist Center for the Visual Arts. To get around, hop aboard the Music City Circuit, the free downtown-area bus service.

Texas: The Alamo

Join the more than 2.5 million people who drop by the Alamo every year. Free to visit, the several remaining structures are fully supported by donations and proceeds from the gift shop. The historic site in San Antonio is conveniently located near the River Walk and is widely hailed a must-see in TripAdvisor reviews.

Utah: Zion and Bryce Canyon Parks

Tackle two top sites in one trip by visiting Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks . It's worth taking several days at each to get the full experience. Unfortunately, the parks' popularity comes at a cost: Accommodations can be limited and the entrance fee for each is $35 a vehicle (valid for seven days).

Vermont: Hildene

Hildene in Manchester, Vermont, was the summer home of President Lincoln's eldest son. The house remained in the Lincoln family until 1975, and was purchased soon after by the Friends of Hildene. Admission costs $23 for adults and $6 for youth and includes access to the house, farm, and gardens.

Virginia: Space Museum and Arlington Cemetery

Depending on your mood, there are two free sites to see in northern Virginia — Arlington National Cemetery and the Udvar-Hazy Center , part of the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum. Arlington National Cemetery is the resting place of hundreds of thousands American military members, with remains of soldiers from every conflict since the Revolutionary War. At Udvar-Hazy Center, you can see a wide range of aircrafts, including a Concorde, SR-71 Blackbird, and the space shuttle Discovery.

Washington: Pike Place Market

Pike Place Market in Seattle is free to enter, but you likely won't leave without buying a nosh. This is one of the oldest farmers' markets in the country and spans 9 acres. Watch fish fly at the Pike Place Fish Market, sip a cup of coffee at the original Starbucks or maybe a pint at Pike Brewing Co., or have a sweet bite at the Daily Dozen Doughnut Co.

West Virginia: Highland Scenic Highway

The Highland Scenic Highway traverses numerous changes in elevation measuring more than 2,000 feet. Scenic viewpoints of the state's rugged Allegheny Mountains abound along the route's 52 miles. The Cranberry Glades Botanical Area in Hillsboro showcases the diverse animal and plant life of the mountainous wetlands.

Wisconsin: The Basilica of St. Josaphat

Construction on the Basilica of St. Josaphat began more than 100 years ago and today the church stands as one of the top tourist attractions in Milwaukee. Admission is free, and the visitor center is open daily. Self-guided tours are always an option, but the visitor center is open Monday through Saturday.

Wyoming: Another Route to Yellowstone

A visit to Yellowstone shoots to the top of many bucket lists despite the $35 vehicle entrance fee, which is good for seven days. Even if you can't find a vacant campsite or cabin within the park, you can lodge nearby and spend all day sighing at the bounteous natural wonders.

This article was originally published on Cheapism

More From Cheapism

• The Best Seafood Restaurant in Every State
• 24 Best Places to Travel After Christmas
• From Crab Croquettes To McSpicy Paneers: Here Are 25 Fan Favorites From McDonald's International Menu
• 11 Things to Know About Costco Car Rental
• Is Spirit Airlines Safe, and Why Is It So Cheap?

Like Cheapism's content? Be sure to follow us .

More for You

Fact Check: Rare Photo Depicts Country Music Icon Dolly Parton Without Signature Full Face of Makeup?

‘Old People Smell’ Is Real, Here’s What Causes It and How To Avoid It

Dog Treat Recall Prompts Nationwide Warning to Pet Owners

Scientists Think They've Found a New Cause of Type 2 Diabetes

I’m a Bank Teller: 7 Reasons You Shouldn’t Keep More Than $3,000 in a Checking Account

Scientists unveil optimal age for being alone and avoiding relationships

If you always use these 6 phrases, you're mentally stronger than most

Do you get a jolt when you're falling asleep? Here's the reason behind that and other strange bodily reactions.

Taylor Swift Brings Travis Kelce Onstage At The Eras Tour

Marines revive a World War II airfield on Peleliu in Pacific pivot

A retired boomer who moved from the US to Costa Rica said it's 'horribly incorrect' to assume life in Central America is much cheaper

Supreme Court Abruptly Changes Schedule

Kevin O'Leary explained how you can live off $500K and ‘do nothing else to make money' — but is it realistic for your retirement?

Elon Musk confirms 12th child as he and Shivon Zilis welcomed new baby earlier this year

I live in a $250,000 houseboat in Toronto, Canada: Take a look inside

I Can't Help But Laugh At These 15 People Who Had To Learn Lessons The Hard Way

Coffee recalled nationwide due to risk of fatal food poisoning

10 Of The Coolest Custom Cars Ever Built By George Barris

The Most Intriguing Mythical Creature in Each US State

Supreme Court Deals Blow to Home Depot