Are you looking for a southern city to explore? Look no further than Birmingham, Alabama. The largest city in Alabama features a rich history, vibrant food scene, and diverse culture. Here’s a guide to exploring all that Birmingham has to offer.
Getting There
Birmingham is easily accessible by car, plane, or train. The city’s airport, Birmingham–Shuttlesworth International Airport, has numerous flights daily from major cities. If driving, highways such as I-65 and I-20 make getting into the city easy. Birmingham is also a stop on Amtrak’s Crescent train line, which runs from New York City to New Orleans.
The Civil Rights Movement
Birmingham played a significant role in the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 60s. A visit to the Civil Rights Institute provides an opportunity to learn about the history and bravery of the individuals who fought for equality. A walk through Kelly Ingram Park, located across the street from the institute, offers a glimpse of the struggle, activism, and iconic moments from the movement.
Satisfy Your Appetite
Birmingham’s food scene is one of the best in the South. From barbecue to sushi, there is something for everyone. For the former, visit Rodney Scott’s BBQ or Saw’s Soul Kitchen for mouth-watering ribs. For a taste of the Gulf Coast, try the oyster bar at Automatic Seafood and Oysters. If you’re looking for a farm-to-table experience, make a reservation at Highlands Bar and Grill, winner of several James Beard Awards.
Outdoor Adventure
Birmingham is surrounded by beautiful scenery and the outdoors is never far away. Take a hike at Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve or explore Red Mountain Park for numerous trails perfect for hiking or mountain biking. For a more leisurely outdoor experience, visit the Birmingham Botanical Gardens or the Birmingham Zoo.
Art and Culture
Birmingham has a thriving arts scene. The Birmingham Museum of Art houses over 27,000 pieces of art from around the world, ranging from ancient to contemporary. For live performances, the Alabama Theatre hosts a variety of events, including music, dance, and theater productions. The Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center is a state-of-the-art venue that features performances by international and national artists.
Sports and Fitness
Birmingham is home to several sports teams, including the Birmingham Barons minor league baseball team and the Birmingham Legion FC professional soccer team. If you prefer to participate in sports yourself, the city has numerous parks and recreation centers perfect for playing basketball, soccer, and tennis. Visiting the Crossplex, a massive indoor and outdoor sports complex, offers numerous opportunities for fitness and wellness.
Final Thoughts
Birmingham has something to offer visitors of all interests. Its rich history, delicious food, beautiful scenery, and thriving arts scene make it a must-visit southern city. From indoor to outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, the Magic City has it all.