Top Rated Attractions in Birmingham

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.

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.

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.

Touted to be the best place in the state to mountain bike, Oak Mountain State Park is where beautiful central Alabama scenery unfolds in all its glory. Sprawled across acres and acres, this rolling state park is a wonderland for recreation, boasting an undulating, picturesque landscape. The park is complete with elongated miles of bike trails, horseback riding, mountain biking, hiking and camping sites, and rustic cabins, while the presence of serene lakes only accentuates its picture-perfect topography. The park is home to picnicking areas, basketball courts and a golf course, and the jubilant Peavine Falls also lie burrowed in its idyllic recesses. Weaving through dense woods is a boardwalk which witnesses the true grace of nature, while the Alabama Wildlife Center harbors periled and native wildlife. Approximately a 30-minute drive south from the city center, Oak Mountain State Park is a remarkable one among all of Alabama's state parks.

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.

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.