Things To Do
in Birmingham
Birmingham is a vibrant city located in the state of Alabama, United States. It is known for its rich history in the civil rights movement, with landmarks such as the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute and the 16th Street Baptist Church. The city also boasts a thriving cultural scene, with museums, art galleries, and music venues scattered throughout.
Birmingham is a hub for delicious southern cuisine, offering a wide range of dining options to satisfy any palate.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $75 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute to learn about the city's pivotal role in the civil rights movement. Enjoy a stroll through Kelly Ingram Park, where you can appreciate various sculptures and memorials.
Head to the Birmingham Museum of Art to view their impressive collection of American art. Afterward, grab lunch at a local eatery in the arts district.
Spend your evening at the local historic theater watching a live performance. Finish off with dinner at a renowned Southern cuisine restaurant.
Wake up and enjoy a hike at Red Mountain Park, where you can take in beautiful views of nature. Visit the park’s visitor center to explore local flora and fauna.
Pack a picnic and relax at Railroad Park, a great spot for families and friends alike. Enjoy the various walking trails and art installations.
As the sun sets, enjoy a scenic drive through the city. Dine at one of the rooftop restaurants for a great view of the skyline.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with a strong focus on civil rights history.
- Affordable cost of living compared to many other U.S. cities.
- Access to a variety of outdoor recreational activities, including parks and nearby mountains.
- Growing food scene with a variety of dining options, including Southern cuisine.
- Proximity to major highways and connections to other Southern cities.
- Higher unemployment rates compared to the national average.
- Limited public transportation options, making a car necessary for most residents.
- Issues with crime in certain neighborhoods.
- Weather can be hot and humid in the summer, which may be uncomfortable for some.
- Some areas have been affected by economic decline and urban decay.
Best Activities in Birmingham
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A 19-acre green space in downtown Birmingham with walking trails, playgrounds, and outdoor events.
Offers hiking and mountain biking trails, treehouse adventures, zip lining, and scenic views.
Features opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing.
Tours
Uncover the best of Birmingham with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Birmingham
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of Birmingham skyline and surrounding areas.
Beautiful urban park with views of the cityscape, walking trails, and a lake.
Scenic overlooks and various trails with opportunities for stunning nature photography.
An exclusive club offering breathtaking views of the city and its surroundings.
Provides a unique perspective of the city, with murals and urban scenery.
Food in Birmingham
Birmingham Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Southern dish, often served with a tangy remoulade sauce, can be savored at local favorites like Eagle's Restaurant.
Must-Try!
Indulge in tender, smoked ribs accompanied by a variety of delicious sauces at Saw's BBQ.
Enjoy this quintessential Southern dish featuring creamy grits and perfectly seasoned shrimp at Highlands Bar and Grill.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Birmingham better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Home to a variety of food stalls offering cuisines ranging from Korean to Mexican, this food hall is a must-visit for street food enthusiasts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Birmingham, it is important to respect people's personal space and avoid standing too close or initiating physical contact without permission.
Using polite language and manners, such as saying 'please' and 'thank you', is highly valued in Birmingham as a sign of respect.
Birmingham is a diverse city, and it is important to show respect for different cultures, religions, and lifestyles to foster a harmonious community.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Birmingham with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Birmingham
Ensure a smooth experience
In Birmingham, United States, it is customary to tip service staff such as waiters, bartenders, and taxi drivers. The standard tip is generally 15-20% of the total bill. However, it's important to check the bill, as sometimes a service charge may already be included.
Payment in Birmingham, United States is commonly made using credit or debit cards, as well as cash. Most establishments, including restaurants and stores, accept major credit cards. Contactless payment methods are also gaining popularity in the area.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Birmingham.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Birmingham, with blooming flowers and comfortable temperatures. Expect to see cherry blossoms and Dogwood trees in full bloom, as well as various outdoor festivals and events.
Summer in Birmingham is hot and humid, but it's also the season for outdoor concerts, food festivals, and other cultural events. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities and explore the city's diverse neighborhoods.
Fall brings cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage to Birmingham. It's an ideal time for hiking and exploring the surrounding natural areas, as well as attending fall festivals and sampling seasonal produce.
Winter in Birmingham is mild, with occasional cold snaps. Visitors can enjoy holiday lights, cozy indoor activities, and the city's cultural attractions. It's also a good time for trying comfort food at local restaurants.
Birmingham at Night
Hiking in Birmingham
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large urban park featuring over 15 miles of hiking trails, offering scenic views and historical remnants from the iron ore mining era.
Home to the world's largest cast iron statue, Vulcan Park features trails with stunning views of Birmingham and a museum dedicated to the city's history.
The largest state park in Alabama, offering over 50 miles of hiking trails, fishing, mountain biking, and even horseback riding.
A scenic area for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, featuring various trails that connect to water bodies, perfect for enjoying nature.
A protected area with hiking trails along the Cahaba River, known for its biodiversity and beautiful natural scenery.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Birmingham through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Birmingham by plane.
The primary airport serving Birmingham, Alabama, offering domestic and limited international flights.
Located approximately 100 miles from Birmingham, this airport offers domestic flights and international services.
About 150 miles from Birmingham, this is one of the busiest airports in the world, providing extensive domestic and international connections.
Located around 200 miles from Birmingham, it serves a large number of domestic flights and several international destinations.
Approximately 220 miles from Birmingham, this airport is a major hub for freight and offers several domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest racial demographic group in Birmingham, contributing to the historical and cultural fabric of the city.
A significant demographic group in Birmingham, with a rich heritage and influence on the civil rights movement.
An increasingly growing demographic group, adding to the cultural diversity of Birmingham.
A smaller demographic group that contributes to the multicultural environment in Birmingham.
Individuals identifying with multiple racial backgrounds, reflecting the city's diversity.
A very small demographic group in Birmingham, representing a rich cultural history.
The Soul of Birmingham
Discover the essence of Birmingham through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Birmingham has a strong passion for American football, with local high school teams and semi-professional leagues drawing significant crowds.
Basketball is widely played and followed in Birmingham, with various youth leagues and college teams, particularly the UAB Blazers.
Soccer has been growing in popularity in Birmingham, with local clubs and the presence of the Birmingham Legion FC in the United Soccer League.
Baseball has a rich history in Birmingham, with the Birmingham Barons being a prominent minor league team in the area.
Birmingham is home to the Barber Motorsports Park, which hosts a variety of motorsport events and is a key location for racing enthusiasts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Birmingham.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many establishments in Birmingham offer creative and delicious vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as the vegan BBQ sandwich at The Essential and the falafel plate at Silver Kati.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can enjoy gluten-free pizzas at Post Office Pies or explore the gluten-sensitive menu at Farm Bowl + Juice Co.