It can host special events. Tours & Sightseeing in Birmingham It's never been easier to travel around and explore our city. But dont be fooled by its classic appearance: this place has all the features of a modern concert hall, including excellent sound quality and an impressive lighting system (which make its occasional dance parties one hell of a good time). With a wonderful collection that includes everything from WWII-era aircraft and helicopters, to rocket ships and even flying saucers (okay, maybe not that last one). The park has multiple sculptures that depict the violence and loss of the civil rights movement, including the iconic Bull Connor statue that highlights the former police commissioners use of attack dogs on protestors. Rickwood Field is the oldest surviving professional ballpark in the United States. There are more than enough activities to occupy you and your loved ones for hours on end: while mountain biking and hiking are the crowd favorites, thrill-seeking visitors tend to lean toward options like the BMX course, cable skiing, boat rides, or horseback riding! I recommend this for families, couples, or anyone with a bored teenager. Many visitors loved the zip line and ropes courses, but bemoaned the poorly marked and confusing trail signs and the lack of proper restrooms (the park does offer portable toilets). Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. A crowd favorite among architecture buffs, this 1840s construction serves as a stark reminder of the Greek Revival style of architecture and the style of mansion that was oh-so-common during the Civil War era. We played the Cluetankhamun room and escaped with 12 minutes to spare, very well themed escape room with very good puzzles and banging music! - venue a little off the beaten track, but staff were friendly, helpful and informative. And with various events happening throughout the year, theres always a chance to revel in the high-energy atmosphere. Last but not least, the RTJ Golf Trail at Oxmoor Valley boasts no less than 54 holes, ideal for beginners and experts alike. Everyone had a great time on & off track with great buzz from everyone while at the Birmingham venue. We arrived at 8.50 and was called on @9.05pm We felt abit rushed as we had ordered food and drinks to chill but got called within 10mins. The monument in Birmingham, Alabama, became a flashpoint in the fight for racial justice. They have done a nice job of restoring the historic site and grounds. Built in 1976, the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex can host sports events, conventions, and many other public events. Joe Minter is only doing the work of God in his yard, he says. What was once home to some of baseballs most iconic players (including Babe Ruth) now serves as a popular spot for visitors, who are granted access to walk in and explore the grandstands or see how fast they can run between the bases. So whether youre bringing the family or catching up with friends over a cheeky beer, youll be grinning ear to ear before nights end. Despite its small size, this art museum houses a notable and eclectic collection of Asian, European, Native American and African art, not to mention one of the best collections of Wedgwood in the country (in fact, it houses the most Wedgwood outside of England). Avondale Brewing Companys taproom features over a dozen homegrown blends as well as a dedicated sour room! With the oldest building from the site dating back to 1902, the Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark produced iron for almost 80 years, until it was transformed into a museum in 1983. And for those looking to stay dry, the park also boasts has several regular rides like the Little Bumpers bumper cars and high-octane Rampage wooden cooler coaster. 20 minutes east of Downtown, the Park features calming walking trails, powerful memorial statues, and the Hall of Honor temple, which displays over 11,000 names of 11,000 Alabamians whove sacrificed their lives in battle. Their attention to detail was wonderful and we owe it all to the fantastic team! Open in Google Maps. The exhibits displayed at the Southern Museum of Flight pertain to both the military and the civil domain. As an affiliate of the Smithsonian Museum, the humbling and sobering Civil Rights Institute keeps the Birmingham Story alive, providing a fascinating insight into not only the local fight for civil rights in the 1950s and 1960s, but the continuous worldwide battle for equality and human rights. The center also boasts an Imax theater. As you scoot around town, checking off notorious landmarks (like Vulcan Park and Museum, the 16th Street Baptist Church, and Railroad Park) and hidden gems alike, youll be tasked with solving clues, cracking codes, and taking photos so have your camera ready. Featuring a complete menu with everything from deep tissue massages to hydrafacials and more. The other local course, Ross Bridge, is one of the longest in the world and features two large lakes connected by a stunning waterfall. Today, it is home to the University of Alabama at Birmingham and bowl games. DEFY heights as you jump through the different activities: kickstart your day at the foam pit before trying out the wall trampolines, extreme dodgeball zone, giant airbags, or freejump area! Attractions at the park include a nine-story drop slide, an 800,000 wave pool, tube slides, toddler water play area, a 216-foot flume, and a lazy river. Youre on vacation, after all! From old standbys like the Hidden Meadow Vineyard (known for its fruity and southern muscadine wines) to new favorites like the Cat-n-Bird Winery, there are plenty of places where you can sample the local flavors while enjoying an impromptu tour from the friendly sommeliers. Can you escape from a room with only 3 clues? Most hikes are rated medium, as some have hills and some dont. One of the best ways to learn about the bygone decades, the Church, and the evolution of the city is on one of the districts many walking tours. At DeSoto Caverns Park, a stunning slice of Mother Nature is tucked away in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, visitors can explore a labyrinth of caves with names like the Onyx Column Room and Cathedral Room.. Both parents and grandparents say McWane is a "super fun" place to spend a day with the kids, especially since the center appeals to a variety of age groups. For those looking to burn some energy a journey to Oak Mountain State Park will see to that, at 9,940 acres it is the largest state park in Alabama and very close to Birmingham. Discover the top options for this specially designed legwear that can help travelers. Amongst others, it has a collection of dinosaurs and an aquarium. 1963 Birmingham Civil Rights Experience - Black History Matters Walking Tour 3 By The Birmingham Historic Touring Company Walking Tours To learn more about Birmingham's role in the civil rights movement, plan a visit to the Civil Rights District. Catch a jazz show at True Story Brewing Co. or if metal, blues, or punk rock music is more your vibe, check their calendar to make your plans. The room can also be rented for private parties. Head east towards Atlanta, Georgia, where you can see if you could survive a zombie apocalypse on the Walking Dead Tour. Families that visited said they appreciated the option to purchase Imax theater admission separately and enjoyed the convenience of the on-site food court. All Rights Reserved. Jr and the 16th Street Baptist Church bombing, the institute is a must for visitors and locals alike who want to gain a better understanding of how far weve come as well as how far we still have to go. As any former visitor (or local) will attest, this lively metropolis is full of surprises: from its roaring sports crowds and insightful museums to its stunning inner-city nature, vibrant Theatre District and proximity to the Appalachian Mountains, the selection of things to do in Birmingham is far more diverse and exciting than meets the eye. Drinks, views, and city lights: what more could you want? I decided to take my younger brother here during the Christmas holiday to get him out of the house. Escape Games Game & Entertainment Centres, Bars & Clubs Game & Entertainment Centres, Auto Racing Tracks Game & Entertainment Centres. Sitting in the heart of the city in front of Lynn Park, The Birmingham Museum of Art is a wonderful place for anyone who enjoys the fine arts be that paintings, sculptures, photography, or ancient relics. There are multiple self-guided scavenger hunts available in Birmingham; most of them dont even require you to do more than download an app! Oak Mountain State Park. Nashville is all about the music, and the first stop is Ryman Auditorium for a good country show. The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute presents the moving story of the city's role in the civil rights movement, focusing not just on the past, but also on the continuing international struggle for human rights through permanent and temporary galleries. Every city has a dark side, one that only comes out among the shadows of the night. Once one of the largest producers of pig iron in the world. After youre exhausted with all the activity, you can head on over to the picnic area, enjoy a nice meal, and, if youre up for it, set up camp for the night! Cost: $40 per group of 2 (ticketing) Address: 8101 4th Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35206. Danielle is a passionate storyteller who left us all with the chills after our ghost tour! Take a Dolphin Cruise at Orange Beach If you're tired of going to Gulf Coast beaches to suntan, try taking a dolphin cruise instead! Start planning your trip today! The exhibits displayed at the Southern Museum of Flight pertain to both the military and the civil domain. All agreed that the facility is well-maintained and appreciated its many amenities, including a restaurant, lots of outdoor seating and a gift shop. A lovely yet sad story of a business that had an impact on the loves of so many families. Birmingham Pedal Tours 47 Bar, Club & Pub Tours Beer Tastings & Tours Open now By milleap This is such a unique and fun way to experience Birmingham's best hangout spots. It has a 17,654 seats Arena, a 3,000 seats Concert Hall, a 1,000 seats Theater, and several other amenities and facilities. 5 stars for the escape room and our host Rob. Things I've never seen in any other Escape rooms. Youll come out feeling refreshed in both mind and body. Do you have a thing for motorsports and speed? Overlooking the city of Birmingham is a bearded man that pays homage to Vulcan, the Roman god of fire and forge. Throughout the downtown attraction, youll find areas dedicated to dinosaurs, tech, art, nature, and even a Bubble Room the ideal spot to whisk away a couple of hours on a rainy day. Birmingham Museum of Art - Take the entire family and set off on an interesting adventure through history together. Courtesy of SeanPavonePhoto/Getty Images/iStockphoto, Once an industrial hub of the South and ground zero for the civil rights movement, Birmingham is now a vibrant and diverse metropolis, known for its. All the venues are found in the theatre district of Birmingham, making it easy to walk from one place to another and catch as many films as possible or an easy walk to the nearby restaurants and bars for a post-movie nightcap. I will be coming back again. Scary, exhilarating and sweaty! The only gripe among recent visitors concerned the museum's facilities, or lack thereof: museumgoers said they would love to see a cafe or eatery added to the grounds. Incredible experience. 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Held by the eponymous NGO since 1999, the beloved festival lasts a week and screens different movies across seven different venues, highlighting all kinds of local filmmakers, independent artists, and international films. Helped us when needed Amazing game and amazing service, would 100% recommend!! With its grandiose auditorium and art deco design, the Alabama Theatre was built in 1927 as a luxury cinema for those who could afford itand today, travelers can enjoy that same luxury and a rich history to boot at one of their events or shows! Caves, in Alabama? Whats better than getting a beer with friends? Recent travelers said this local favorite is a gorgeous green space. Then head on over to the open-air drive-in for an evening of classic cinema. Birmingham is home to some of the finest golf courses in Alabama and, with sunny days nearly year-round, these lush and manicured greens present as a great place to spend an afternoon perfecting your drive. Visitors can tour the church. 15. Once a vacant railroad track that was gathering dust, the RotaryClub has since transformed the eyesore into a marvelous greenspace trail for the locals and tourists to bike, walk, or run! The museum opened its doors in 1951 and has since become an art capital for the people of Birmingham. Living in London I felt I had had my fair share of cocktails and drinks experiences but this. If youre after more than a leisurely stroll or bike ride, youll be happy to know that the Foundation offers a multitude of classes, including exercise groups, as well as a playground, outdoor gym, and a climbing dome for the youngsters. Here, at the infamous Talladega Speedway (which is less than an hour from Birmingham), you can whiz around the race track at speeds as fast as 165 mph and feel what its like to be a real-life Nascar champion. Experienced golfers preferred the diversity at the Ross Bridge course and said that it's in great shape, while some described the Oxmoor Valley course as "tired." If the system detects something that potentially contradicts our. The gardens also feature several paths for walking and jogging, making it a great spot for both recreation and relaxation. A must for the petrolheads, the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum is home to a truly astonishing array of motorbikes: more than 1,400 motorcycles, spanning over a century of production are found here, next to the Barber Motorsports Park racetrack. Go wild at Bear Grylls Adventure Birmingham If you're looking for an adrenaline rush, you'll be sure to find it at Bear Grylls' action-packed adventure experience, one of the best indoor activities in Birmingham. With 4 floors of interactive exhibits, the McWane Science Center aims at acquainting children with everything that means science and natural life. Visitors can ascend the Vulcan tower for spectacular, open-air city views or explore the ground-level museum to learn more about Birmingham's history. For all the sugar-lovers out there, Cookie Fix boasts three tantalizing locations in Homewood, Cahaba Heights, and Huntsville, each serving up a lip-smacking range of sweet treats that are especially good to share (or not). We also had fun with our guide, Clover . Then grab a ticket for a riveting performance at the Lyric Theatre! With eye-opening exhibits on areas like Black History Month and Juneteenth, to Martin Luther King. So make sure to join in on the tailgating nation, cheer on the home team, and get into the local sporting spirit! The park is also home to the city's official visitor center. Fantastic, challenging, and fun! Named after the Roman god of fire and smithery, the Vulcan Park & Museum is guarded by the third largest cast iron statue in the world, weighing 50 tons. A sprawling, mostly open-air animal kingdom home to over 950 animals of all shapes and sizes (from some 230 different local and international species). If youre not much of a climber, bring your hiking shoes to explore around 12 miles of hiking trails, zig-zagging throughout the park. The evening started off with a fascinating Zipline & Aerial Adventure Parks Kayaking & Canoeing. This six-block area in downtown Birmingham encompasses several historic sites, including the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, the 16th Street Baptist Church, Kelly Ingram Park, the A.G. Gaston . From high school players right up to professional sportspeople, theres something here for everyone including the pair of Heisman Trophies won by Pat Sullivan and Bo Jackson (Auburn University athletes). If youre a climber, youre in for a treat with massive boulders located inside Boulder Field at Moss Rock Preserve, perfect for any level. The largest cast iron statue in the world, Vulcan is a reminder of the city's iron mining roots. It organizes summer camps for children. So why not add an element of fear into your travel plans with a tour that will take you through the spookily twisted and haunted side of the Magic City? Get Active At Oak Mountain State Park. Loutre Kahului Harbor Crash Crawly's Adventure Fun Centre Okanagan Lake Baxter Harbour Falls Prudhommes Antique and Flea Market Driftwood Canyon Provincial Park Air Park Sarnia Escape Skandinavian Bar Local . You can take a self-led walking tour through the park to learn about the notable protesters and the significant incidents of this turbulent time in the city's history, detailed by markers along the Freedom Walk route. We attended Redpoint for my daughters 7th birthday party with a small group of her friends. Most said the trails not particularly long or challenging are more for walkers than hikers, including families with strollers and small children. To guarantee a fun-filled time, look through this list of some of the best things to do in Birmingham, AL, that you can enjoy with your travel buddies. A whimsical wonderland of miniature buildings, shrines, fountains, waterfalls, ponds, and even tiny figurine people. 2.4 Miles 23% 48 votes 5 Legion Field Use the airline's app or make an international call if your flight has been canceled. This little-known memorial honors those who have donated their bodies to medical training. Or, just grab a quick cup of tea or coffee at the on-site and simply enjoy the natural surroundings! The September 15, 1963 tragedy galvanized Birmingham into action, with protests popping up throughout the city and state as people demanded racial reform. There is also a trail system. Many golfers loved playing in November, when the weather is still fairly warm. Chattanooga offers visitors a beautiful dose of nature at the Tennessee Riverpark or kayaking down the rapids of the Tennessee River. Its free to roam around, 7 days a week, and thanks to the location at the foot of Red Mountain, theres no shortage of nearby outdoorsy activities to follow suit. So take a break from the usual and check out one of Birminghams many tasting rooms for a little afternoon delight. Attend a masquerade dinner or Valentines day dinner for a truly unique historical experience. The theater itself also plays a significant role in the city's civil rights history: it was one of several theaters offering first-run movies to African Americans. into social history brought alive by Ross, a brilliant guide who made the tour very relatable. If youre celebrating something special, then look no further than a stop at Half Shell Oyster House of Birmingham known for its New Orleans inspired seafood dishes, and the Highlands Bar & Grill, known for seasonal upscale dining. Tucked away in Bessemer, just 20 minutes from Birmingham, this waterpark is home to a variety of slides and rides for all ages, as well as a lazy river, the Kahuna Wave Park, and plenty of opportunities to dip your toes in the water. Located just a 50-minute drive from Birmingham in the town of Cullman, and nestled into the landscaped hillside of the St. Bernard Abbey gardens, it makes for a great half-day trip for the big smoke. way to experience Birmingham's best hangout spots. If you get hungry at any time throughout the day, there are a handful of fine-dining restaurants, or, for something quicker, its hard to go past the easy eats of Shake Shack or The Cheesecake Factory! Both were a blast and the staff was great! Take a rollicking ride through Sedona's natural beauty in a rugged SUV. or take the wheel yourself. Skydiving is available throughout greater Birmingham (and beyond), with names like Chattanooga Skydiving Company and Skydive Alabama (to name just a couple) providing experienced instructors who will take care of everything from getting you suited up to landing safely back on solid ground. would definitely be fun sharing that trip with others, I thoroughly enjoyed the personalized one-on-one. Visit to see some of the local wildlife up close, from varieties of fish, bats, turtles, and woodpeckers, as well as beautiful wildflowers. If youre looking for things to do in Birmingham that deliver a much-needed dose of rest and rejuvenation, then visiting the Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve should be first on your list. I will be coming back again. The largest city in Alabama, Birmingham is a beautiful historic destination offering an array of exciting things to see and do, from museums and historic landmarks to sports, theater and great restaurants.Visit the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum, explore the Birmingham Museum of Art, and take a self-guided tour of the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute. Revenue impacts the experiences featured on this page. (Patience Itson / Bham Now) When it comes to family entertainment, The Birmingham Zoo never disappoints. for all ages with either friends or family. Despite being far more tiring than it looks, theres nothing better than jumping on a trampoline if youre looking to burn a few calories and tire out the youngsters. Visit Website. From professional guides, open top buses and attraction specific tours, take your pick in a city that feeds the curious. Not feeling especially lucky today? 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When the system detects a problem, a review may be automatically rejected, sent to the reviewer for validation, or manually reviewed by our team of content specialists, who work 24/7 to maintain the quality of the reviews on our site. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content. It is also the largest of the state parks in Alabama, boasting of 9,940 acres. This attraction is great for all ages, with something to see at every turn (including a rhino habitat, an aviary featuring hundreds of colorful birds, and even a petting zoo). Pass under towering trees, impressive and oddly shaped boulders, creeks, and more. East Lake Park - Birmingham, Alabama - A great place to visit! She let us ask questions and take pictures at points of interest. If you're a gearhead, you won't want to miss George Barber's collection of motorcycles the largest in the world, according to Guinness featuring more than 1,400 bikes from 200 different manufacturers. Birmingham Botanical Gardens 506 Gardens By Bren4NewYork Oh and the Gift Shop has so many great gifts, artwork, garden statues, and the staff was so helpful and friendly. The center's top level is home to traveling exhibits from other museums, special events, and an exhibit about the relationship between art and technology.