34 Fascinating Things to Do in Birmingham Al
Birmingham, the state’s largest city, is a charming historic destination with a wide range of intriguing things to see and do, from museums and historic sites to sports, theater, and fantastic restaurants. On a self-guided trip, visit the Birmingham Museum of Art, the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum, and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute.
The McWane Museum of Natural history, Vulcan Park and Museum, Sloss Furnaces, Alabama Sports Basketball Hall of Fame, and Birmingham Zoo are just some of downtown kinship sights. You’ve got yourself a seriously deserving destination when you add in some of the best motorbike collections in history, imposing statues, a ton of hip rooftop pubs, and hidden breweries.
Whether you are traveling with friends or young children, you will have a fantastic time participating in a range of fun activities. Continue reading to know the best things to do in Birmingham Al.
1. 34 Fun Things to Do in Birmingham Al
Birmingham is a constrained city with an abundance of tourist attractions, exquisite dining options, and vibrant shopping areas. Whether you are vacationing with friends or preschool people, you will have a wonderful experience participating in a range of fun activities.
Birmingham is known for its rich history, including its role in the Civil Rights Movement and its industrial heritage, which made it one of the most important cities in the country during the 20th century. Birmingham is home to a diverse range of cultural and recreational attractions, including museums, parks, gardens, and theaters.
The city is also known for its excellent cuisine, including traditional Southern dishes, barbecue, and a variety of international cuisine. The city is home to several universities and colleges, including the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Samford University, and Birmingham-Southern College, making it an important center for education and research.
Overall, Birmingham is a vibrant and dynamic city with a rich history and a bright future, offering a variety of attractions and opportunities for residents and visitors alike. Nevertheless, despite its troubled past, Birmingham is now reclaiming its rightful place in the tourism spotlight by reclaiming the enchanting Magic City appellation that originally claimed its fame.
Things to do in Birmingham Al? The outdoor enthusiast in your family will never run out of things to do in Birmingham. This city is a fantastic spot to visit and enjoy everything that nature offers hiking trails, state parks, botanical gardens, zoos, and much more. Incorporate it with fantastic dining options and a walkable downtown Birmingham; you’ve got the ideal location for a long weekend.
1.1. Visit the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute Birmingham, Alabama
The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute is a research and educational institution with the goal of educating and enlightening the next generation about civil and human rights through sharing information about the past, conducting historical research, and providing opportunities for collaboration in order to create a better future.
The Institute’s 58,000 square feet of archives, galleries, conference spaces, and temporary exhibits date back to its opening in 1992. Self-guided tours of the museum begin at the permanent display, which takes visitors on a trip from the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s to current human rights challenges.
The Institute offers a wide variety of programs for various audiences, including schoolchildren, adults, teachers, and tourists. It also holds numerous activities and events.
1.2. Kelly Ingram Park, Birmingham, Alabama
Large demonstrations had been placed there during the 1960s American Civil Rights Movement. The park, which bears Osmond Kelly Ingram’s name, is filled with sculptures and memorials.
When photographs of this confrontation were televised, the nation was outraged. In May 1963, babies and toddlers and high school students who were protesting were attacked by Birmingham police and firefighters. Police dogs and firehoses were employed.
Things to do in Birmingham Al? Additionally, it paved the way for the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which finally led to the end of public segregation.
1.3. Birmingham Attractions: The Birmingham Zoo
On 122 acres of land, there is a zoological park called the Birmingham Zoo. The zoo was first established in 1955 with just a few exotic species housed in a firehouse.
As per estimates, the zoo is home to 950 creatures from more than 230 different species across six continents. Among the diverse creatures are tigers, zebras, rhinoceroses, bobcats, snow leopards, camels, orangutans, and snow leopards.
Red pandas, Komodo dragons, and double-wattled cassowaries are just a few of the unusual and endangered species there. One of the top things to do in Birmingham, Alabama, the zoo is renowned for its steadfast conservation efforts as well as its numerous education outreach activities.
1.4. Marvel at the Birmingham Museum of Art
The museum’s collections span a range of artistic periods and styles, from ancient times to the present day, and include a diverse array of media, such as paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, and photographs.
Some of the highlights of the collection include European paintings and sculptures, American art from the 19th and 20th centuries, and an extensive collection of Asian art.
The Birmingham Museum of Art is also home to several important collections of African and Pre-Columbian art. The museum is open to the public and admission is free.
1.5. Ride Fast at the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum
It is home to an impressive list of more than 1,400 motorcyclists that span more than a century of production. The Museum is named after George Barber, a visionary who enjoyed the speed and rush of a fast automobile and amassed 63 Porsche victories under his construction.
Barber started collecting motorbikes after starting with sports cars, and today the collection is so huge that it holds the record for the greatest motorcycle collection in the world according to the Guinness Book of Records.
1.6. McWane Science Center, Birmingham, Alabama
The McWane Science Center has a ton of entertaining facts that young people and those who are still children can learn.
The center not only disseminates information about science but also makes it enjoyable through a range of participatory, hands-on displays like Just Mice Size, Alabama Monsters and Mythical Creatures, Collections Center, Nature Scope, World of Water Aquarium, and much more.
This is a terrific destination to go to if you’re seeking entertaining things to do with kids in Birmingham, Alabama. Exhibits are intended to promote exploration and inquiry. The modern facility is housed in the restored historic structure that once housed Loveman’s department store in the heart of Birmingham.
1.7. Vulcan Park and Museum, Birmingham, Alabama
No trip to Birmingham would be complete without visiting the Vulcan Statue, the world’s biggest cast-iron statue in the world.
This massive structure, which stands 56 feet tall and weighs more than 100,000 pounds, has been a recognizable landmark of the city for more than a century.
The hero is surrounded by additional exhibits that detail major historical occurrences in Birmingham. There is also an excellent spot with an unmatched panoramic view of the city and its surroundings.
1.8. Walk Around at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens
The Birmingham Botanical Gardens are open every day of the year for free visits and are a must-see destination for all lovers of the outdoors, gardens, and plants.
The gardens often organize workshops, lectures, field trips, and other events in an effort to promote not only plants but also a strong love and respect for gardening and plants.
There are more than 20 different themed garden areas in these stunning mature gardens, which have been flourishing for more than 60 years.
1.9. Red Mountain Park, Birmingham, Alabama
On Frankfurt Drive, near the Red Mountain Ridge, sits Mountain Park. Remy’s Dog Park, an off-leash dog park covering six acres, three tree homes, old mines, the Kaul Exploration Tower, the Red Ore Zip Tour, and more than 14 miles of pathways are just a few of its highlights.
It also has two city vistas. You can also go horseback riding, hiking, and doing many other things. The hue of the iron ore that may be present beneath the mountain’s surface is the source of both the name of the mountain and the name of the park.
The park was created 50 years after the last mine finished in 1962. Field trips and summer camps are only two of the education outreach initiatives the park offers.
1.10. Legion Field Stadium Birmingham, Alabama
It is the “Old Gray Lady,” a 71,000-seat sports complex that opened its doors in 1927. The UAB Blazers football team plays at Legion Field, which was named in honor of the American Legion.
The field is rich in Alabaman history and is known for hosting the Iron Bowl, Olympic soccer events, and the Magic City Classic.
Tickets for a football game or other special events can be obtained periodically if you’re visiting the area. The location is filled with amazing memorials, including historical plaques and sculptures made of limestone.
1.11. Rickwood Field Birmingham, Alabama
Industrialist and Birmingham Barons owner Rick Woodward constructed Rickwood Field in 1910. Built in 12.7 acres, the park—the first concrete and steel stadium in the lower leagues—is located.
The historic park has been looked after by the Friends of Rickwood organization since 1992, and they are currently rebuilding it to serve as a “working museum.”
The greatest baseball stadium in the world, Rickwood Field, is recognized on the National Register of Historic Places.
1.12. Strap on your Wings at the Southern Museum of Flight
The Southern Museum of Flight is a museum located in Birmingham, Alabama, that showcases the rich history of aviation and aerospace in the southern United States.
The museum features a diverse collection of aircraft, artifacts, and exhibits that tell the story of aviation from its earliest days to the modern era. Visitors can see everything from vintage biplanes to cutting-edge military jets, as well as a range of memorabilia, photographs, and interactive displays.
In addition to its exhibits, the Southern Museum of Flight also hosts a variety of events, educational programs, and guided tours, making it a great destination for aviation enthusiasts of all ages.
1.13. Good People Brewing Company Birmingham, Alabama
Founded in 2008, it is one of the oldest and most well-respected breweries in the state, known for its high-quality beers and unique flavors. Good People’s flagship beer is the IPA, which is widely regarded as one of the best in the country. In addition to IPAs, the brewery also produces a range of other styles, including stouts, porters, brown ales, and seasonal beers.
Good People Brewing Company has a taproom on-site where visitors can sample the beers, take a tour of the brewery, and learn more about the brewing process. The taproom also features live music and events, making it a popular gathering spot for locals and beer lovers.
Customers are welcome to bring their own food to the company’s taproom, which debuted in 2011 but does not provide meals. The business conducts brewery tours and hosts activities including movie screenings, charity events, and local beer festivals. Additionally, the brewery sells T-shirts, glassware, and other goods.
1.14. Things to Do in Birmingham, Al: Railroad Park
The 19-acre Railroad Park Foundation property commonly referred to as Birmingham’s Living Room is a natural paradise with plenty of walking trails, a lake to relax by (ideal for a picnic), and some breathtaking sunset views.
You’ll be glad to hear that the foundation provides a variety of classes, including workout groups, as well as a playground, outdoor gym, and a climbing dome for kids if you’re looking for something more than a leisurely stroll or bike ride. Alternatively, you may just stop at the nearby cafe for a quick cup of tea or coffee while admiring the view!
1.15. Alabama Sports Hall of Fame and Museum
Established in 1969, the museum features a wide range of exhibits and artifacts that honor Alabama’s greatest athletes and coaches, as well as the state’s unique role in shaping the sports world.
Visitors can see everything from vintage jerseys and equipment to interactive displays and exhibits that bring the state’s sports history to life.
Whether you’re a lifelong sports fan or just looking to learn more about Alabama’s rich sports heritage, the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame and Museum is a must-visit destination.
1.16. Avondale Brewing Company, Birmingham, Alabama
It is located in a historic structure that has formerly served as, among other things, a hospital, a firefighter, a pharmacy, a post office, and a saloon named the Long Branch Saloon.
Streetcar Kolsch, a German-style ale, Pachyderm Pale Flour, which is named after the brewing company well-known mascot, Miss Fancy, and Kings Wit Belgian Wheat, a wheat ale in the Belgian style, are a few of its hand-crafted creations.
1.17. Party with A View of the City’s Rooftop Bars
All of the above are available at Birmingham’s rooftop bars, along with plenty of opportunities for socializing, making them the ideal place to pass some time as the day turns into evening. Bar Sebastian is a super-secret rooftop bar with a view over Region’s Field that requires a code to enter.
Not to be missed are the stylish and vibrant Habitat Feed as well as The Roof, an appropriately named bar on top of the Redmont Hotel on Fifth Avenue.
1.18. Meet the locals at the Pepper Place Saturday Market
A 100-mile radius around Birmingham is covered by the local family farmers that participate in the Pepper Place Saturday Market, which was founded in 2000. Residents may get fresh, seasonal produce and high-quality food in one convenient location, and farmers gain access to hungry customers who demand it.
Everything is available there, including heirloom and hybrid tomatoes as well as a wide variety of berries, fruits, vegetables, herbs, cheeses, meats, breads, and other foods.
There is a wide variety of delectable food, including croissants, sausages, and burritos. Many craftsmen also sell original gifts and home décor products.
1.19. The Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame Birmingham, Alabama
The Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame is located on Fourth Avenue N in the Birmingham Civil Rights District and is committed to both the preservation and enhancement of jazz music.
It was established in 1978, and in 1993 it became a museum. Instruments, paintings, quilts, and other jazz-related items are shown in the 2,200 square-foot area, along with personal items owned by jazz legends like Ella Fitzgerald.
Jazz musicians visit schools to present jazz music to pupils, and the museum organizes jazz performances at various locations throughout the city. Additionally, it presents free weekly jazz classes and serves as home to the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame Student All-Star Band.
1.20. Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve
Near the Irondale neighborhood of Birmingham, in Jefferson County’s eastern reaches, sits the Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve.
More than 1000 acres of this urban nature park are home to a wide variety of flora and animals, as well as about 12 miles of hiking and bike trails. Ask the personnel at Ruffner Mountain about their efforts in these fields because they are passionate about informing visitors about the value of conservation and sustainability.
The Ruffner Mountain Nature Center currently runs the preserve after the mines were shut down in 1953. There are owls, raptors, snakes, and turtles among the wildlife, and there are 12 miles of hiking trails.
1.21. Birmingham Attractions: Alabama Theatre
The Alabama Theatre’s first 55 years of operation were spent mostly as a Paramount movie theater. The theater was established by Paramount Studios in 1927 so that Alabama would have a location to screen its movies. Today, the Theatre presents more than 300 events annually in addition to films.
In 1998, the classic theater’s original appearance was brought back; numerous historic features were fixed, but the theater was also updated for the twenty-first century. The theater seats nearly 2,500 people and is where Alabama’s treasured Mighty Wurlitzer Organ is.
1.22. Music at the Virginia Samford Theatre
There is a venue for dance, music, and cultural performances called the historic Virginia Samford Theatre.
The Little Theatre was the original name of the theater in Romanesque style when it originally opened in 1927. It was renowned for its top-notch productions, but it shut down as World War II got underway.
The theater was shut down by the university in 1999, and the Metropolitan Arts Council rebuilt it using money donated by Virginia Samford Donavan, after whom the theater is named. Today, plays and musicals are performed in the theater, which also encourages local talent.
1.23. The Summit Mall Birmingham, Alabama
The one million square foot Summit mall, which promotes itself as an upscale lifestyle destination, contains everything from retail establishments (such as Saks Fifth Avenue, the Quickie Mart, and Anthropologie) to movie theaters, spa treatments, and a wide range of eateries.
There are a few fine-dining establishments nearby if you are hungry at any point during the day, but for something quicker, it’s hard to beat Shake Shack or The Cheesecake Factory’s quick bites!
1.24. The Alabama Veterans Memorial Park
It was established to memorialize all those who have died while serving the country from the 20th century to the present.
The Park, which is 20 minutes east of Downtown, offers calm walking routes, magnificent memorial monuments, and the Hall of Honor chapel, which is a memorial to the more than 11,000 Alabamians who have died fighting.
While many tourists just stop by for a short while to look around, those who want to learn more about the area’s history can sign up for a guided tour or come on Memorial Day to see the Step-Stone ceremony.
1.25. The StarDome Comedy Club Birmingham, Alabama
What you need to give your journey a healthy dose of humorous sentiment is the StarDome Comedy Club, a fantastic place west of Birmingham in the city of Hoover.
This cherished traditional theatre has evolved into a premier hi-tech institution, hosting both local and national comedians as well as improv troupes and sporadic open-mike evenings.
Whether you’re accompanying the family or meeting up with pals for a cheeky beer, you’ll be grinning from ear to ear by the end of the night.
1.26. Watch a NASCAR Race at the Talladega Superspeedway
True car enthusiasts won’t pass up the chance to enjoy the exhilarating NASCAR experience. At the storied Talladega Speedway, you can learn what it’s like to be a real-life NASCAR champion (less than an hour from Birmingham).
With these options, you can either assume control of the vehicle yourself or ride shotgun with a professional driver (hang on tight!). Book your tickets right away if you’d rather watch the professional’s race.
1.27. Crack a Shell at Half Shell Oyster House of Birmingham Alabama
True motorheads won’t miss the opportunity to buckle up for the thrilling NASCAR experience. At the storied Talladega Speedway, you can learn what it’s like to be a real-life NASCAR champion (less than an hour from Birmingham).
Consult Half Shell Oyster House of Birmingham in the Lakeshore district if you’re in the mood for crab. Along with a variety of more conventional seafood dishes with a New Orleans influence, the restaurant offers a number of creative dishes, such as Redfish Orleans and Seafood Stuffed Portobellos.
Along with the delectable dishes, there is a sizable drink menu that includes some very strange concoctions like the Pink Pearl Martini. Add this well-known location to your bucket list if you’re hungry and searching for aphrodisiac activities in Birmingham.
1.28. Dance the Night Away at Nightclub Birmingham, Alabama
Partygoers, pay attention: while Birmingham may not be Miami, there are plenty of nightclubs there where you can dance till dawn. Start the evening in Dave’s Pub before moving on to Nana Funks, a club that specializes on rhythms you can boogie to!
Locals adore Blue Monkey for its late-night food and speakeasy-style ambiance, but many prefer Zydeco for its boisterous live music performances. You won’t lack for choices, no matter whatever combination of bars or clubs you choose to visit.
1.29. Grab a Drink at the Local Breweries Birmingham, Alabama
The numerous breweries in Birmingham are calling if you’re in the need for something cold and refreshing, especially for all of your summer travelers. Unexpectedly, Birmingham is home to some of the most cherished and underappreciated brewers in the South.
So where should we begin? The TrimTab Brewing Company, a well-known institution named Birmingham’s Best Brewery and Best Brewery in Alabama, is where you should logically have your first drink (Thrillist).
But it’s by no means the only illustrious bar. Although the Back Forty Beer, Good People Brewery provides a lovely outside setting for savoring your beer and some live music as well as offering behind-the-scenes excursions, it also offers tours of the brewery.
1.30. Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark
The Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark was always a metal blast furnace that was operational from 1882 to 1971. It was Birmingham’s first blast furnace when it was constructed. After it was shut down, the only remaining blast furnace in the US was rebuilt.
As a National Historic Landmark, the location is presently utilized as a museum to inform the public about the iron industry.
1.31. Birmingham Children’s Theatre
One of the biggest and most established professional theater groups for kids in the United States is the Birmingham Children’s Theatre. It is Alabama’s sole professional touring theatrical group, and it is situated on Richard Arrington Jr Boulevard N.
The theater company utilizes three theaters while operating out of the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex, including the 150-seat Dominick Studio Theatre, the 250-seat Wee Folks Theatre, which is used for performances for children ages three to six, and the 950-seat Mainstage Theatre, which is used for children ages six and up.
The theater provides educational outreach initiatives like school field visits and the Young Actors Theatre Academy.
1.32. Virginia Samford Theatre, Birmingham, Alabama
Ballet, music, and theater performances take place in Birmingham’s historic Virginia Samford Theatre on 26th Avenue S. The Little Theatre was the original name of the theater in Romanesque style when it originally opened in 1927. It was renowned for its top-notch productions but shut down as World War II got underway.
After being bought by a private family and gifted to the Birmingham State University in Birmingham, the auditorium reopened in 1950 as the Clark Memorial Theatre.
The theater was shut down by the university in 1999, and the Metropolitan Arts Council rebuilt it using money donated by Virginia Samford Donavan, after whom the theater is named. Today, plays and musicals are performed in the theater, which also encourages local talent.
1.33. Zydeco, Birmingham, Alabama
The city’s premier live music venue, Zydeco, opened its doors in 1989 and is located in the Five Point South neighborhood. Zydeco is the place to go if you’re searching for an enjoyable night out with pals. Every week, concerts of many genres are held at Zydeco’s large concert hall.
Zydeco has excellent culinary options as well. Zydeco never fails to please, whether you’re wanting to get down on the dance floor in the music hall, unwind in the establishment’s tavern, or breathe in some fresh air on the terrace.
In addition to hosting top musical performers, Zydeco throws fantastic Christmas parties as well as Mardi Gras events, Super Bowl parties, and tribute shows. At Zydeco, you can listen to everything from death metal to country music to dance festivals.
1.34. At a spa, Unwind and Relax
When it comes to unwinding, Birmingham has you covered with options along with a soothing massage, steam room, body wrap, mani-pedi package, hot stone massage, facial, fragrance session, or full-body scrub (and that’s just the tip of the iceberg).
These services are available all throughout the city for weary visitors, and while walk-ins are always welcome, the greatest prices (and biggest discounts) can be found by making an online reservation in advance. If you make your reservation at the appropriate time, you can save up to 50% off the standard fee.
2. Wrapping Up
In conclusion, Birmingham, Al is a vibrant city with a rich history and plenty of fun activities to enjoy. Whether you’re a local resident or visiting for the first time, you’ll never run out of things to do in this exciting city. Birmingham has a plethora of options, from culture aficionados to outdoor enthusiasts.
Foodies will love sampling the diverse cuisine in Birmingham’s many restaurants, from classic Southern dishes to international flavors. The city is also home to a thriving arts scene, with numerous museums, theaters, and music venues to choose from. Visit the Riverchase Galleria, Alabama’s largest retail center, for entertainment and shopping.
Things to do in Birmingham Al? With its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and diverse array of activities, there’s never a dull moment in this exciting city. Whether you’re here for a day or a week, you’re sure to have a memorable time in Birmingham, Alabama.
We appreciate you looking at our list of activities in Birmingham, Alabama!
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