Located at 16th Street North across the street from Kelly Ingram Park and the 16th Street Baptist Church, this fascinating gallery tells the story of Birmingham's tragic and triumphant contributions to the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s. This state-of-the-art facility utilizes multimedia presentations, photographs and other artifacts to document the African American struggle for racial equality, and relates this history to other human rights struggles around the world. Admission is free on Sundays.
Red Mountain Park consists of 1500 acres (607.02 hectares) full of outdoor fun and excitement. In addition to the 11 hiking trails in the park, there are also zip-lining facilities, historic mines, three tree houses and the Hugh Kaul Beanstalk Forest and Kaul Adventure Tower. The park is one of Birmingham's favorite destinations for outdoor adventure.
Based on the Greek god Vulcan, the god's statue is the tallest cast iron statue in the world in the center of Birmingham’s Vulcan Park & Museum, which features educational tours and a soaring observation deck overlooking the city. The park also allows special events including marriages and other cultural events.
Birmingham's warm climate ensures that something is always blooming at the Botanical Gardens. Enjoy spring azaleas, summer roses, fall leaves and winter camellias as you tour the extensive grounds. Or, step inside the Southeast's largest clear-span glass greenhouse to enjoy orchids and other tropicals. Visit the Japanese Tea House and Garden and the Southern Living Garden, plus vegetable, fern, iris and other special gardens. Other attractions include the Gatehouse Gift Shop, a café and a library. Lectures, demonstrations, concerts and other events occur almost daily; inquire for a schedule. Admission is free. All paths are wheelchair and stroller-accessible.
Birmingham's Railroad Park is a 19 acre (7.68 hectare) park that was created in 2010. The park has water features, trails, and lots of grassy areas for playing and picnicking. The park often plays hosts to special events and concerts throughout the year. A welcome slice of green amid the steely concrete of the city, this park is also a serene place for leisurely walks and jogging. Couples who frequent the park often cap off their walks with a nice snack at the Boxcar Cafe located within the park premises.
This outstanding nature center situated on the site of an iron ore mine was closed in the 1950s and reopened as a nature refuge in the 1970s. Visitors to this mid-city refuge can explore the former quarries and ore crushers, hike 10 miles of trails, watch hawks soar, study rock formations and enjoy the wildflowers and wildlife.
Sprawling across 54 acres (21.85 hectares) in the charming city of Mountain Brook, Jemison Park is a tranquil recreational park and urban loop trail. Featuring blankets of beautiful flowers, lush green groves of towering trees, and a scenic river, the trail is a nature lover's delight. Hike, bike, or walk along the beautiful path under the cool shade of trees, stop by for capturing beautiful photos, and breathe the fresh natural air and you embrace your free spirit. Suitable for all ages, Jemison Park is a spectacular gem that cannot be missed when in town.
Located within the Samford University, Boyd E. Christenberry Planetarium is a delightful place to learn more about the stars and planets. It provides tours and shows for adults, children, groups and families which provide a chance to explore the space and universe. The entry is free and the venue is accessible to the differently-abled.
Peavine Falls is a magnificent natural attraction located within Oak Mountain State Park in Alabama. Nestled amidst the scenic beauty of the Appalachian foothills, this waterfall is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The star of the show, Peavine Falls, is a stunning 65-foot (19.8 meters) waterfall that cascades down a rugged rock face into a serene pool below. The waterfall gets its name from the Peavine Creek, which feeds the falls with its crystal-clear waters. The sight and sound of the rushing water, combined with the lush greenery that surrounds it, create a tranquil and picturesque setting.
Located at 16th Street North across the street from Kelly Ingram Park and the 16th Street Baptist Church, this fascinating gallery tells the story of Birmingham's tragic and triumphant contributions to the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s. This state-of-the-art facility utilizes multimedia presentations, photographs and other artifacts to document the African American struggle for racial equality, and relates this history to other human rights struggles around the world. Admission is free on Sundays.
The beautiful Iron and Steel Museum of Alabama, as the name suggests, exhibits a great demonstration of how iron was formed during the Civil War. Popularly known as the Tannehill Museum, The museum is located in Tannehill Ironworks Historical Park and features iron-making technology, machines, tools and all the products used during ancient times. The museum also exhibits a collection of steam engines, war materials and more.
Abroms-Engel Institute for the Visual Arts is a modern gallery that showcases art work by local artists. Visit here and learn more about the cultural richness of Birmingham. The gallery is operated by the University of Alabama and is free for everyone. It hosts regular exhibitions, concerts and events which attract patrons from all over the area.