The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute
Our first stop is the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, a museum and research center dedicated to the study and advancement of civil rights. The institute houses a collection of artifacts, documents, and photographs from the civil rights movement, as well as a research library with over 60,000 volumes! The museum offers a variety of exhibits and educational programs that explore the history of civil rights in the United States. This place is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of the civil rights movement. Admission to the museum is free, and it is open Monday-Saturday from 9:00am-5:00pm.
The 16th Street Baptist Church
The church was founded in 1873 and is one of the oldest African American churches in the state, and an excellent example of Gothic Revival architecture. It has a tall spire and beautiful stained-glass windows, making it a sight to behold. But most of all, the 16th Street Baptist Church holds enormous historic value. On September 15, 1963 the church was bombed by members of the Ku Klux Klan, killing four young girls who were preparing for Sunday services. The bombing galvanized the civil rights movement and helped to bring about changes in race relations in the United States. The church is open to the public, so be sure to visit it when you’re in Birmingham.
Birmingham Museum of Art
Birmingham Museum of Art is one of the best museums in the state of Alabama. It has a wide variety of art, from paintings to sculptures. There is also a section devoted to African American art. The museum also has a good café and a gift shop. The staff is very friendly and knowledgeable and will make your experience as educational as possible.
Red Mountain Park
Red Mountain Park is a large public park in Birmingham, Alabama. The park features biking and hiking trails, picnic areas, a playground, a lake, and views of the city skyline, making it a great place to visit for a day of outdoor recreation or sightseeing. The park is also home to the Vulcan Park and Museum.
Vulcan Park and Museum
The Vulcan Park pays homage to the Roman god of fire and iron, Vulcan. This is because in the mid-1900s, Birmingham was known as the “Steel City” due to its booming iron and steel industry. The park is home to a replica of the Statue of Vulcan, which stands 56 feet tall and weighs over 100 tons. The statue was originally built for the 1904 World’s Fair in St. Louis and remains the largest cast-iron statue in the world. It was brought to Birmingham in 1906 and has been a symbol of the city ever since. In addition to the massive Statue of Vulcan, the park also features a museum with exhibits on the history of Birmingham, the iron and steel industry, and the Civil Rights Movement.
Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum
Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum is definitely a must-see for any car or motorcycle enthusiast! The museum showcases an impressive collection of vintage motorcycles and automobiles from all over the world. The collection is vast and impressive, and the museum itself is beautifully designed. The museum is open every day except Christmas and New Year’s Day. Admission prices range from $10 – $25 depending on age and whether or not you want a guided tour.
Birmingham Botanical Gardens
The gardens are home to over 12,000 different plants, representing more than 600 species from around the world. In addition to the gardens, there is also a conservatory, greenhouses, and an herbarium on site. Birmingham Botanical Gardens is open every day of the week, and it’s a beautiful place to visit and learn about the plant life of Alabama.
McWane Science Center
The McWane Science Center is one of the best things to do in Birmingham, AL if you have kids. It has exhibits on science and technology, as well as a planetarium and an IMAX theater. It’s also home to the largest collection of cast iron objects in the world. If you’re looking for a fun and educational day out, the McWane Science Center is definitely worth a visit. Admission is $15 for adults and $9 for children.
Southern Museum of Flight
This is another great thing to do in Birmingham, AL with kids. The museum, dedicated to the history of aviation, has over 100 aircraft on display, including some of the most iconic aircraft ever made, such as the Lockheed Constellation and the Boeing 727. Here, you can learn about the Wright brothers, Amelia Earhart, and other important figures in aviation history. There are also numerous interactive exhibits, making it a great place for both kids and adults alike. Admission is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, and $5 for children.
Kelly Ingram Park
Kelly Ingram Park was created in 1963, and is home to many beautiful gardens, sculptures, and other works of art. It owes its name to the late civil rights activist Kelly Ingram (1893-1954) who was a close friend of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and the two worked together on many important campaigns against racial segregation. The park is also the site of several important civil rights protests, and is now a major tourist attraction for visitors to Birmingham.
Sloss Furnaces
Sloss Furnaces is a historic landmark and one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. The furnaces were used to produce pig iron from iron ore, and they played a major role in the city’s industrial development. Today, the site is open to the public for tours and events, and it is also home to the Sloss Metal Arts Center, which offers classes and workshops in metalworking.
Railroad Park
If you love the outdoors, then you’ll definitely want to check out Railroad Park in Birmingham, Alabama. This beautiful park spans 19 acres and is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a vigorous jog. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent a bike and explore all that the park has to offer. In the warmer months, the park comes alive with a variety of activities, including concerts, food festivals, and even a farmers market. Kids will love the playgrounds and splash pad, while animal lovers can check out the petting zoo.
Pepper Place Saturday Market
The market features fresh produce from local farmers, live music, and more. The market also features artisan goods from local vendors, so you can find unique gifts for your friends and family. The market is held every Saturday from April through October, from 7am and noon. Admission is free, so it’s a great option for budget-minded shoppers.
Other Things to Do in Birmingham, AL
As you can see, there are many things to do in Birmingham, AL. And that’s just scratching the surface! Other great attractions include Birmingham Zoo and Alabama Sports Hall of Fame. And for a taste of the local culture, check out the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame.
Outdoorsy types will also enjoy hiking and biking in Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve or exploring the many waterfalls at Oak Mountain State Park.
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