Birmingham is the largest city in Alabama and offers people virtually everything to do. From business to entertainment, this beautiful city is in the heart of the metro city while offering visitors the perfect mix of modern, contemporary and southern charm. When it comes to things to do, Birmingham, Alabama has it all making it the perfect place for your next visit.
Whether you’re a local or looking to get a way for a week, Birmingham, Alabama has a lot to offer. From historical icons to some of the most beautiful architecture, everyone in the family will feel right at home. There’s a little bit of everything making it historically significant, eclectically funky and progressively southern.
Our next bit takes a closer look at the Top 10 Things to Do in Birmingham Alabama helping you make the most of your time here.
10. Birmingham Zoo
Established back in 1955, the Birmingham Zoo is one of the oldest attractions in the Birmingham area. The largest zoo in Alabama has a lot to offer families complete with more than 800 animals spanning 120+ acres. There are over 200 species on the endangered animals list form 8 different continents which has helped make it one of the best things to do in Birmingham, Alabama for years.
Visit Birmingham Zoo
9. Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark
One of the first industrial sites in the US to be preserved is located in Birmingham. The Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark once operated back in 1882 and ceased operations in 1971. The pig iron producing blast furnace and stands today like it did over 100 years ago while giving visitors a glimpse into Birmingham’s past. Most say the Sloss Furnaces helped make Birmingham what it is today and ultimately, what helped build the city.
Visit Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark
8. McWane Science Center
The McWane Science Centers offers a great deal to visitors including history, education and entertainment. The center does a great job at sparking wonder for children while inspiring a life-long love for learning. Open year round and 7-days a week, the McWane Science Center is easily one of the south’s most unique venues.
Visit McWane Science Center
7. Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum
For a vintage look at what motorcycles and cars were intended to be, a stop at the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum is a must. Offering an amazing gallery of vintage autos at the museum that brings in nearly 300,000 visitors each year. If you’re looking for an amazing destination in Birmingham then you’ve come to the right place.
Visit Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum
6. Alabama Sports Hall of Fame
The Alabama Sports Hall of Fame holds all of the best state memorabilia and helps preserve the state’s rich athletic culture. Founded in 1967, the venue holds more than 5000 state sporting artifacts which are displayed in a 33,000 square foot building for all to see. They offer tours, educational programs and private events for those interested, but you may want to check out their availability through the link below.
Visit Alabama Sports Hall of Fame
5. Railroad Park
Railroad Park spans 19 acres in the heart of Birmingham and has been open since 2010. Providing a historical rich environment inviting entertainment, concerts, cultural events, and recreation. Throughout the year there are numerous events appealing to adults and families alike and for those looking for some good food should stop by the The Boxcar Café giving you a variety of menu options.
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4. Oak Mountain State Park
Located 20 miles south of Birmingham sits one of the most beautiful state parks in Alabama. This quaint park has a lot to offer visitors including scenic views, vendor crafts, hiking trails, beaches, camping, pony rides, hay rides, live music and much more. Oak Mountain State Park has numerous events throughout the year so be sure to check out there website through the link below.
Visit Oak Mountain State Park
3. Birmingham Botanical Gardens
This botanical gardens incorporates 67+ beautiful acres and is located at the southern part of Red Mountain and close to Lane Park in Birmingham. Besides amazing scenery, the Birmingham Botanical Gardens has numerous year-round events including family and adult classes, Fall Plant Sale, Spring Plant Sale, Antiques at the Gardens, Earth Day at the Gardens and more. Many family friendly events are offered helping bring in thousands of visitors each year.
Visit Birmingham Botanical Gardens
2. Alabama Splash Adventure
No review is complete without talking about fun in the sun and the Alabama Splash Adventure offers just that. This water park/amusement park is located just off Interstate 20/59 and has become a favorite for visitors and locals alike. Perfect for birthdays, group events or a weekend stop, Splash Adventure is highlighted by carnival style rides, water slides, Splash Island, water bumpers, wave pool and much more.
Visit Alabama Splash Adventure
1. Red Mountain Park
Red Mountain Park is easily one of the most visited places in Birmingham for locals and visitors. People come from quite a distance to enjoy the amazing trails that span 15 miles through the 1500 acre park. You, your pets and children will find a great deal of entertainment including zip lining, tree houses, numerous trails and even a dog park which will entertainment everyone in your pack.
From hiking to biking, there are many different trails to choose from with each ranging with a different degree of difficulty. Zip lining is the highlight offering a Zip Trip and Mega Zip for true thrill-seekers.