Birmingham is the largest city in Alabama. It played a significant role during the Civil Rights Movement. With rich historical landmarks and scenic destinations, Birmingham is rightly nicknamed “The Magic City.” From museums and theaters to parks and shopping centers, there is a lot to do in this beautiful American city. Refer this hotel planning guide to understand your accommodation options in Birmingham. Planning ahead goes a long way in making it pleasant and memorable.
The Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum
Image via Flickr by curtis palmer
If you’re a motorcycle enthusiast, the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum is a place you should definitely visit when you are in Birmingham. It has entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the largest collection of motorcycles in the world. There are over 1,400 motorcycles from 20 different countries, made by over 200 different manufacturers. The museum is shining proof of the world’s two-wheeler automobile evolution over the years.
The Birmingham Zoo
Image via Flickr by ralph and jenny
Established in 1955, the Birmingham Zoo started out with only a handful of exotic species that were kept in a firehouse. Today, however, the 122-acre zoological park houses over 950 animals, including species from six different continents. In addition to common zoo animals like elephants, zebras, and tigers, you can also see some endangered species like the Komodo dragon, red panda, and the double-wattled cassowary.
Red Mountain Park
Image via Flickr by Max Wolfe
Covering an area of about 1,500 acres, the Red Mountain Park includes historic mine tours, 14 miles of trails, the famous Red Ore Zip Tour, and a six-acre off-leash dog park. It’s also famous for its city overlooks and adventures, like the Hugh Kaul Beanstalk Forest, Kaul Adventure Tower, and the Vulcan Materials Zip Trip. You can go hiking along the plains or even take up biking and enjoy the beautiful terrains of the Red Mountain. The park is open from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Advance reservation is required for adventure activities.
Pepper Place Saturday Market
Image via Flickr by curtis palmer
Established in the year 2000, the Pepper Place market aims to connect farmers with citizens. The market is always booming with freshly grown spices, seasonal produce, and lots of healthy food items. It is open from April to December, and during this time, people rush to the stalls to buy the finest food in the area. The market also offers trinkets and souvenirs and is a nice place to spend the afternoon with your family and kids.
The Alabama Theatre
Image via Flickr by M Floyd
The Alabama Theatre has quite a bit of history stuck to it. During the early years of its establishment, the venue hosted Paramount films before the production house built their official theater in 1927. The Miss Alabama pageant and the Mickey Mouse Club show were also hosted here until 1987. However, the true asset of the theater is the Mighty Wurlitzer Organ, which is a must-see attraction for anybody visiting the location.
Birmingham Botanical Gardens, Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve, Sloss Furnaces, Railroad Park, and Vulcan Park & Museum are some other excellent places to hit in Birmingham. Enjoy your visit!