), the Topgolf is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Birmingham. Every city has a dark side, one that only comes out among the shadows of the night. And with various events happening throughout the year, theres always a chance to revel in the high-energy atmosphere. The 19-acre property of Railroad Park Foundation, affectionately known as Birminghams Living Room, is a natural oasis: its full of walking, has a lake to sit around (perfect for a picnic), and serves up some spectacular sunset views. As the former largest manufacturer of pig iron in the South, Sloss Furnaces produced over 30 million tons of iron between 1882 and 1971. 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. Well, at the Barber Motorsports Park, passions come to life in the form of the 880-acre, multipurpose racing track! Or, just grab a quick cup of tea or coffee at the on-site and simply enjoy the natural surroundings! Barber started collecting sports cars that later expanded into motorcycles and these days, the collection has grown so vast that its notched up the official Guinness World Record for the largest motorcycle collection in the world. The guides were all very friendly and cool. Good People Brewery, right next to the Railroad Park, offers a great outdoor space to enjoy your beer and some live music while also offering behind-the-scenes tours; while the Back Forty Beer Co. serves up a killer view of the Sloss Furnaces to complement its craft range. 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. If you prefer to watch the pros racing, book your tickets now. Makes you appreciate all the modern luxuries we have that we take for granted. It was a fantastic experience! 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 Gardens and the Fourth Avenue Business District, among other points of interest. If youve always loved the theatre classic theatre then the near-century-old Virginia Samford Theatre, which earns its stripes as officially Birminghams oldest performing arts venue, is a must-visit. When it was built in 1927, the Alabama Theatre was intended for silent movies. In fact, there are 30 thematic gardens divided into three categories: Gardens of Collections, Gardens of Nature and Gardens of Culture. Party animals, listen up: its no Miami, but there is no shortage of nightclubs in the city of Birmingham that will have you dancing till the sun comes up. It has a 17,654 seats Arena, a 3,000 seats Concert Hall, a 1,000 seats Theater, and several other amenities and facilities. They also display a vintage motor-sports collection, showcasing the rare 43 Lotus and 1964 Ferrari 158. And, apart from the museum itself, the top-tapping love of music is shared by educating the new generation too from Jazz Master Classes to free introductory programs for school kids, the spirit of jazz runs deep. Visit Website. Overall me and my partner really enjoyed ourselves, took him their for his birthday in the evening we never did it before so it was good laugh. One of the largest golf course construction projects ever attempted, the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail showcases a collection of public courses throughout the state of Alabama, including two courses in the Birmingham area, all designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. Oxmoor Valley offers three courses: the Ridge with heavy tree cover and big elevation changes, the Valley with scenic lakes throughout and the Short course, which features 18 one-shot holes. With over 1200 vintage motorcycles, Barber Motorsports Museum & Park attracts bikers and the general public alike with its two-tiered platform display of bikes. University of Alabama-Birmingham - If you're a fan of modern-day architecture and design, add this attraction to your must-see list. Youve excelled yourselves. There's something for everyone at Red Mountain Park, where miners once toiled to extract iron ore from the red soil. Fantastic, challenging, and fun! who left us all with the chills after our ghost tour! At Oak Mountain State Park a lush and diverse landscape full of waterfalls and lakes about 20 miles south of Birmingham. 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! Coffin Works. 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. Top Things to Do in Birmingham, Alabama: See Tripadvisor's 89,221 traveller reviews and photos of Birmingham tourist attractions. Search for free among 1,500,000 tours in every destination around the world! Since 1880, 16th Street Baptist Church has been active on this site ever since, and On September 15, 1963, a bomb exploded at the church killing four young girls and escalating the race wars. 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. Nestled in the heart of downtown Birmingham, Kelly Ingram Park is a 16-acre haven of green space and serenity. Lush grounds and impressive architecture aside, the Arlington Antebellum Home & Gardens also serves as a museum for some of the best decorative arts pieces from the 19th Century and offers a locally-led tour to learn more about the space, its history, and its rare decorative pieces. For a more straightforward rooftop experience, check out the Moon Shine Bar at the Elyton Hotel (which boasts sweet views of both downtown and Red Mountain) or the 19th-story Roots & Revelry. 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. The center also boasts an Imax theater. Especially relevant to all your summer travelers, if youre craving a cold and refreshing, then Birminghams multiple brewing companies are calling. Families that visited said they appreciated the option to purchase Imax theater admission separately and enjoyed the convenience of the on-site food court. This is so much more We thoroughly enjoyed our night out with Brum Tours and Prof. Carl Chinn. The other local course, Ross Bridge, is one of the longest in the world and features two large lakes connected by a stunning waterfall. From cookie cakes and cookie stacks to gift bags and sampler packs, the bakery has got you covered with a wide-ranging menu of baked goods that will be sure to leave you craving more (thank heavens for the take-home packs). This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content. SO much care and detail has gone into making this feel authentic, bringing alive the history of the challenges of daily life in the Back to Backs. 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). Visiting golfers love both Oxmoor Valley and Ross Bridge, although many note that Ross Bridge is not only visually stunning, but also more challenging. Located in the Civil Rights District, the 16th Street Baptist Church is more than just a church its the first colored Baptist Church to exist in the city and the site of one of the most tragic bombings during the civil rights movement. So we missed getting inside the facility. - venue a little off the beaten track, but staff were friendly, helpful and informative. Despite their policy asking to arrive 30mins prior to actual start time which would of been 9.30pm. View pricing and ticket options here. It organizes summer camps for children. 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. And to better understand the history that shaped present-day Birmingham, plan a visit to the Civil Rights Institute followed by a walk through the Civil Rights District. Out the front, dont miss the Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument while a little shocking, its a reminder of a reality that isnt too far in the distance. If youre looking for a nature escape, look no further than Jemison Park. Looking for a fun place to spend an afternoon with friends? The season typically runs from late March to early September, so be sure to check the website for more details on upcoming events. In Memphis, get your tickets for the Riverboat Cruise, then afterward go to the historic Stax Museum of American Soul Music. 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. For more than 50 different types of whiskey, Dram Whiskey Bar has got you covered. Kickstart the night at Daves Pub before moving on to something more upbeat Nana Funks, which is all about beats you can boogie to! 5 stars for the escape room and our host Rob. Tours & Sightseeing in Birmingham It's never been easier to travel around and explore our city. Most reviewers complimented the excellent service at both courses and noted that one of the benefits of playing on RTJ courses is that the tee boxes vary to accommodate players from novice to expert. Beyond its collection of memorabilia and personal effects, the theater also presents shows by local jazz artists and comedians. Ask any local and theyll agree: Rickwood Field is a Birmingham treasure. Incredible experience. Attend a masquerade dinner or Valentines day dinner for a truly unique historical experience. Birmingham has acres of green spaces waiting to be explored. Bring your own clubs or use the ones available; once you have a bay, just take a swing and the technology will do the rest! Found in the citys old viaducts, right next to the Railroad Park Foundation (making for the perfect back-to-back itinerary), the art installation has become a photography hotspot for tourists, Grammers, and locals alike. Their taproom is open daily and they often host live music on their outdoor stage. Other local favorites are the tacos and refreshing drinks at El Barrio, while the Original Pancake House offers comfort, top-tier pancakes, and bonus breakfast options. or take the wheel yourself. Spread across multiple floors and featuring a quaint garden and cozy cafe, the museum displays over 24,000 works in its permanent collection, including an impressive selection of paintings ranging from impressionism to renaissance and contemporary, as well as extensive collections representing a diverse range of cultures and time periods (dont miss the Pre-Columbian masks). Pack your bags and leave the kids behind for your next cruise adventure. Get the most bang for your buck with the Birmingham Area Multi-Attraction Pass! Treat yourself to a manicure and pedicure as well as a custom massage at Poseidon Spa. The September 15, 1963 tragedy galvanized Birmingham into action, with protests popping up throughout the city and state as people demanded racial reform. Exhibits detail some of the most significant events in Birmingham's history, including the tragic loss of life at the 16th Street Baptist Church during a bombing orchestrated by the Ku Klux Klan. Recent travelers said this local favorite is a gorgeous green space. Visit to see some of the local wildlife up close, from varieties of fish, bats, turtles, and woodpeckers, as well as beautiful wildflowers. Enjoy a comfortable stay at the Sonesta ES Suites Birmingham, equipped with perfect accommodations for families and friend groups. 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. We booked the party room before our climb, which was a great space, and then had a 1.5 hour climb. We also had fun with our guide, Clover . A common stop on most civil rights tours (while confronting, these tours are essential when visiting) that wander through Birmingham. 12 Fun Things to Do in Alabama with Kids (for 2023) Home to the UAB Blazers mens and womens basketball teams as well as the volleyball team, the Bartow Arena is a great and affordable place to catch a game (or two) when in town and check out the countrys up and coming stars. However, a few noted that the outdoor art installation is somewhat overgrown and neglected. 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 youre a big fan of sport and history and are looking for things to do in Birmingham, then make sure to stop into the Negro Southern League Museum an eye-opening look at the little-known history of the Negro American Baseball League. With both blockbuster new releases and cult classics playing throughout the week, theres no shortage of entertainment on offer and outside of the showtimes, the backyard games, mini-golf course, and Snack Shack remain open for casual hangs and bites. Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark. Find the best outdoor adventures, on TrekBirmingham.com. (205) 699-7275. Are you ready for the show of a lifetime in a century-old vaudeville theatre thats been through millions of dollars worth of delicate reconstruction? Just check out their attractions: Animal encounters Train + carousel rides Park + playground areas Splash pad And more! for all ages with either friends or family. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. 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.. An integral part of the revitalization of downtown Birmingham, the center is located in the historic Loveman's department store building. 3. Because I want to help make your dream vacation a reality, here is a handpicked list of some of the best things to do in Alabama. Most visitors call this museum a moving experience and a wonderful way to learn about the civil rights movement and its impact on our nation. , friendly helpful staff, Kat, our game leader was brilliant and explained everything very clearly for a non , it was an incredible experience and would highly recommend, Marked as difficult the game really was challenging and we didnt escape but it was. Thank you Redpoint for a brilliant day. Danielle is a passionate storyteller who left us all with the chills after our ghost tour! And, if youre wanting to take your experience to the next level, AFF (accelerated freefall) ground courses are available too, which teach you how to skydive yourself! The arena seats up to 8,500 people and has been hosting games since 1988, locking horns with the likes of Lousiana State, North Texas, Rice, University of Texas San Antonio, and a whole lot more. They have done a nice job of restoring the historic site and grounds. It organizes summer camps for children. You can choose between a 1 or 2-day pass, and go at your leisure to explore Birmingham, your way. 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. 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). 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. An absolutely excellent and fascinating guided tour of the factory given by a friendly and knowledgeable guide. Social Media. Make no mistake, however, this is no regular gallery: all of the weird and wacky objects on display are for sale! Both were a blast and the staff was great! With over one million square feet of exhibition space, the massive Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex hosts everything from trade shows to concerts and political rallies, not to mention sporting events and no less than seven onsite restaurants. Last but not least, the RTJ Golf Trail at Oxmoor Valley boasts no less than 54 holes, ideal for beginners and experts alike. If you want to hop on the music train (literally) check out Mojo Tours to pick up music facts! 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. 1. However, some reviewers said the exhibits need to be updated more often. 27 Best & Fun Things To Do In Birmingham (Alabama) - Busy Tourist Dont have too much time to get a full treatment at the spa? We played the zombie game. This fountain was commissioned by a mother grieving over her son's passing. With a variety of easy-to-challenging rooms, solve the mysteries inside The Battleship, or The Laboratory. Any true motorhead cant pass up the opportunity to buckle up for the high-octane NASCAR experience. Wow what an experience for the Go Karting. Was very fun thing to do with the lads and very enjoyable to do first doing it would recommend to anyone, Fun but exhausting trying to make sense of the place. The Ave Maria Grotto, made from concrete and donated stones, showcases no less than 125 detailed reproductions of some of the worlds most renowned religious buildings and structures. Reviewers commented on the clean restrooms, beautiful gardens, picnic facilities and scenic trails. 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. Drinks, views, and city lights: what more could you want? Overlooking the city of Birmingham is a bearded man that pays homage to Vulcan, the Roman god of fire and forge. Built in 1927 and affectionately referred to as the 'Old Gray Lady', Legion Field has a long legacy of hosting memorable sporting events. But while it may seem like an ordinary park at first glance, this place has a rich, complex, and dark history thats worth taking the time to reflect on. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. A unique book shop with a collection of rare tomes and a nostalgia museum. Undeniably one of the finest theatres for live performing arts in Alabama (and, as expected, located in Birminghams Theatre District). 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 . Catch a bird's-eye view of the city from the iconic Vulcan Tower, go on a stroll through "Birmingham's Living Room" (Railroad Park) or experience an adrenaline rush zip lining through Red Mountain Park. 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! 25 Best Things to Do in Alabama (2023) Fun Activities! As well as hosting some top theatrical performances (including popular local musicals like The Phantom), the theatre also regularly welcomes symphony orchestras and operas. Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark NatalieSchorr / Shutterstock This National Historic Landmark is by far one of the most interesting places to visit in AL. Consider yourself lucky? Fabulous few hours spent here. Yep, you read that right! Best of all, admission is free! Affectionately known as the Old Gray Lady, the stadium can seat up to 71,000 people and when its filled, the roar and the energy are palpable. Choose from the 14 different types of attractions and pay only once for your ticket, which will grant you access to the attractions without waiting in line. 2023 Atlas Obscura. The Magic City was truly an apt name for the city of Birmingham. Enjoy continental breakfast every morning, and afterward, visit all the main sights nearby such as the Birmingham Museum of Art, and take a stroll through Railroad Park Foundation. The Birmingham Ghost Walk - Hotels Churches and Riots Tour 47 Walking Tours from $40.00 per adult Wild Cave Adventure Tour 18 Adventure Tours from $125.00 per adult (price varies by group size) Birmingham Area Multi-Attraction Pass 2 Monuments and Memorials from $36.00 per adult Zombie Scavengers Game - Birmingham, AL 1 Self-guided Tours from Where VR meets golf meets ice-cold beer (convinced yet? Helped us when needed Amazing game and amazing service, would 100% recommend!! There is also a trail system. Lots of interesting information and facts delivered in a fun way. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in United Kingdom. No trip to Birmingham is complete without a stop by the Vulcan Park and Museum, home of the worlds largest cast-iron statue: the Vulcan Statue. Unique & fun experience surrounded by great, helpful employees who are awesome & so much fun! The room itself was engaging and overall excellent. We would really recommend Redpoint as a party venue or as a great place to visit for kids or adults. All of the children commented on how much of a great party it was. 10 Cool, Hidden, and Unusual Things to Do in Birmingham, Alabama Updated February 28, 2022 Share Tweet Email Attractions Map Leaderboards Stories Hotel Deals Unusual Attractions in Birmingham

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