Top Rated Attractions in Birmingham

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.

Nestled within the sprawling campus of the Birmingham-Southern College, the Southern Environmental Center was founded to create awareness about environment protection and conservation. All its efforts and endeavours are directed towards achieving this goal. For more details, check website.

See more than 1000 different animal species from around the globe, from the Siberian tiger to the San Esteban Island chuckwalla. Of course, there are lions, tigers and bears, as well as giraffes, geckos, a white rhinoceros and gorillas. If your feet get tired, hop aboard the Zoo Express Train. ZooSnoozes, their overnight camping program, is available by reservation. Also, check out the zoo's many classes, which are fit for visitors of all ages.

This replica of Lady Liberty located in the suburb of Vestavia Hills is one of the largest in the entire world. The bronze statue stands at 36-ft. tall and just like Bartholdi's original, it was also cast in France. In 1958, an insurance company placed it atop its building in downtown Birmingham, but eventually the city moved it to its present location in 1989. The 60-ft. pediment makes the replica stretch into the air where it faithfully resembles the famous one out in New York harbor. Additionally, the park in which it stands is a tranquil spot away from the hustle and noise of the city.