Best Things to do in Birmingham | Must-see attractions 2025

McWane Science Center

We-Fr 09:00-17:00; Sa 10:00-17:00; Su 12:00-17:00; Nov Th[4] off; Dec 24-25 off; Jan 01 off

Museum

200 19th St N (2nd Ave N)

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McWane Science Center in Birmingham, Alabama, features hands-on science exhibits, an IMAX Dome Theater, and a vast aquarium, making it ideal for learning and exploration.

Duration: 3 to 4 hours.

General admission: $20 adults, $15 children (ages 2-12). Children under 2 free.

Birmingham Museum of Art

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

2000 Reverend Abraham Woods Jr Boulevard

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Birmingham Museum of Art features over 24,000 artworks, including Asian, American, and European art, with notable collections and a sculpture garden.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Kelly Ingram Park

Open 24 hours

Park

5th Ave N at 16th St

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Kelly Ingram Park features vivid sculptures commemorating the Children's Crusade and holds historical significance as a site for civil rights activism in Birmingham, Alabama.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free to enter. Special events may have a fee.

Southern Museum of Flight

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

4343 73rd St N

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The Southern Museum of Flight in Birmingham, Alabama showcases nearly 100 historical aircraft, engines, and artifacts, highlighting regional aviation history.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free entry. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Birmingham's Railroad Park

7:00 AM–7:00 PM

Park

1600 1st Ave S

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Birmingham's Railroad Park offers a historical perspective on the city’s railroad heritage alongside green space, art installations, and family-friendly amenities.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Special events may charge a fee.

Birmingham Zoo

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Zoo

2630 Cahaba Rd

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Birmingham Zoo in Alabama features 550 animals of 195 species, including endangered species. Explore exhibits, kids' activities, and a zoo train.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Adults: $15, Children (2-12): $10, Seniors (65+): $12. Some special exhibitions may require additional fees.

Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex

9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Theater

2100 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd N

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The Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex is a multi-purpose event space in Birmingham, United States, hosting conventions, exhibitions, and sports events since 1976.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Varies by event. Some events may have ticket fees, while many exhibitions are free to enter.

Naked Art Gallery

10:00 AM–8:00 PM

Museum

3831 Clairmont Ave S

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Naked Art Gallery in Birmingham, USA, features contemporary art exhibits, promoting local and international artists in an engaging setting.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a ticket starting from $5.

Loch Haven Dog Park

7:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

3437 Loch Haven Dr

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Loch Haven Dog Park in Birmingham, US, offers a spacious, well-maintained area for dogs of all sizes to socialize and play in a green, safe environment.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. No cost for entry.

Quinlan Castle

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Architectural Building

901 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd S (9th Ave S)

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Quinlan Castle in Birmingham, USA, is a historic structure built in 1990, known for its striking medieval architecture and serene park setting.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Free. Some special events may have a fee.

Christenberry Planetarium

Varies

Museum

800 Lakeshore Dr

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Christenberry Planetarium in Birmingham provides family-friendly astronomical presentations. Free admission with interactive sessions on a scheduled basis.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour for presentations.

Free for general admission. Private presentations cost $150 for up to 50 participants; $3 per additional person.

Negro Southern League Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

120 16th St S

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The Negro Southern League Museum in Birmingham highlights the legacy of Negro League baseball and its impact on American sports culture.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Ruffner Mountain

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Nature reserve

1214 81st Street South

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Ruffner Mountain is a 1,040-acre urban nature preserve in Birmingham, Alabama, featuring 14 miles of trails and diverse native flora and fauna.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Free.

Birmingham Southern College

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

College

900 Arkadelphia Rd

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Birmingham Southern College is a private liberal arts college in Birmingham, Alabama, offering diverse academic programs and a vibrant campus life.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free for campus visits. Some special events may charge a fee.

Samford University

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

800 Lakeshore Dr

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Samford University is a private Christian university located in Homewood, Alabama, just outside Birmingham. It offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Some events may have a ticket fee.

University of Alabama at Birmingham

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

1720 2nd Ave S

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The University of Alabama at Birmingham is a public research university offering diverse academic programs and affiliated with a major health system.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require paid tickets.

Altadena Valley Golf and Country Club

7:00 AM–6:00 PM

Golf Course

2651 Alta Vista Dr (off Acton Rd)

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Altadena Valley Golf and Country Club in Birmingham offers an 18-hole championship golf course and a range of family-friendly amenities for recreational activities.

Duration: 2-4 hours.

Membership required for access. No day passes are available.

Birmingham Children's Theatre

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Theater

2130 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd N (19th Avenue N)

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Birmingham Children's Theatre offers engaging performances designed for young audiences, promoting creativity and an appreciation for the arts in Birmingham, Alabama.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Affordable. Prices range from $10 to $20, with discounts for students and groups.

Eagle Point Golf Club

7:00 AM–7:00 PM

Golf Course

4500 Eagle Point Dr

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Eagle Point Golf Club in Birmingham, USA, features a challenging 18-hole course, designed by renowned architect Bob Cupp, surrounded by scenic wetlands and woodlands.

Duration: 4-5 hours.

Membership required. Guest fees apply based on the season.

Highland Park Golf Course

7:00 AM–7:00 PM

Golf Course

3300 Highland Ave S

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Highland Park Golf Course in Birmingham, Alabama, offers a challenging layout for golfers of various skill levels, featuring scenic views and well-maintained greens.

Duration: About 4 hours.

Paid. $30 for adults, $15 for juniors.

Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at Oxmoor Valley

7:00 AM–7:00 PM

Golf Course

100 Sunbelt Pkwy

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Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at Oxmoor Valley offers two 18-hole courses, featuring a par 72 layout, scenic views, and challenging terrain in Birmingham, Alabama.

Duration: Approximately 4-5 hours for a full round.

Green fees vary; typically $40-$75 based on the day and season.

The Village at Lee Branch

10:00 AM–9:00 PM

Mall

Birmingham

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The Village at Lee Branch in Birmingham, USA, offers a diverse mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment, all within a vibrant community atmosphere.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Some special events may have associated costs.

Bluff Park United Methodist Church

Office Closed

Church

733 Valley St

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Bluff Park United Methodist Church in Birmingham, US, emphasizes community engagement, spiritual growth, and modern worship in a welcoming atmosphere.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated for community programs.

Dawson Memorial Baptist Church

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

1114 Oxmoor Rd

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Dawson Memorial Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama, features traditional worship services, a thriving community, and notable architecture since its founding in 1925.

Duration: 1-2 hours for services and events.

Free to attend services. Some events may charge for materials or meals.

Edgewood Presbyterian Church

9:00 AM–2:00 PM

Church

Oxmoor Road

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Edgewood Presbyterian Church in Birmingham, USA, emphasizes community engagement and spiritual growth with a blend of traditional and modern worship services.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated but not required.

Raleigh Avenue Baptist Church

9:00 AM–1:00 PM

Church

309 Raleigh Ave

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Raleigh Avenue Baptist Church in Birmingham, U.S., is known for its community outreach, rich history, and traditional Baptist worship services.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours for a service.

Free. All services and community events are open to the public without charge.

Rising Star Methodist Church

10:00 AM–2:00 PM

Church

Birmingham

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Rising Star Methodist Church in Birmingham, United States, is a historic congregation known for its vibrant community and notable events.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may require a donation or ticket.

Shades Mountain Independent Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

2281 Old Tyler Rd

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Shades Mountain Independent Church in Birmingham, Alabama, is known for its community-focused initiatives, traditional architecture, and welcoming atmosphere.

Duration: Around 1 hour.

Free. Donations are welcomed for community programs and events.

Saint James independent Methodist Church

10:00 AM–2:00 PM

Church

4313 Viola Avenue Saw

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Saint James Independent Methodist Church in Birmingham, United States, is a historic church known for its unique architecture and community programs.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.

Free.

Shades Mountain Baptist Church

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

2017 Columbiana Rd (vestaview)

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Shades Mountain Baptist Church in Birmingham, AL, stands as a community hub for faith and fellowship, offering various programs and services to its members.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Some special events may have a fee.

Cahaba Heights Baptist Church

8:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

Birmingham

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Cahaba Heights Baptist Church in Birmingham offers a welcoming community, rich history, and a range of activities for visitors and worshippers alike.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations welcomed for special events.

Mountain Brook Community Church

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

3001 Highway 280 E

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Mountain Brook Community Church in Birmingham, Alabama, serves a vibrant community, focusing on worship, outreach, and fellowship.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may have fees associated.

Palisades Church of Christ

9:00 AM–1:00 PM

Church

625 Palisades Blvd

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Palisades Church of Christ in Birmingham offers spiritual guidance and community involvement, featuring modern architecture and a welcoming environment for all.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours during services.

Free. Some special events may require a registration fee.

Vestavia Hills Baptist Church

Office Closed

Church

2600 Vestavia Dr

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Vestavia Hills Baptist Church, founded in 1943, serves the Birmingham community with a modern sanctuary, engaging services, and extensive community outreach programs.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations are accepted for community projects.

Briarwood Presbyterian Church

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

2200 Briarwood Way

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Briarwood Presbyterian Church in Birmingham, Alabama, is a vibrant congregation of the Presbyterian Church in America, offering worship and community engagement.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Contributions are appreciated but not mandatory.

Southminster Presbyterian Church

9:30 AM–12:00 PM

Church

1124 Montgomery Hwy

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Southminster Presbyterian Church in Birmingham offers a vibrant community atmosphere, historic architecture, and meaningful worship experiences for all ages.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcome and appreciated for special programs.

Cahaba Heights United Methodist Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

Birmingham

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Cahaba Heights United Methodist Church in Birmingham offers a warm community atmosphere, spiritual services, and a welcoming congregation for those seeking fellowship.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated for special events and community outreach.

Saint Elias Maronite Church

6:00 PM–8:00 PM

Church

836 8th St S

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Saint Elias Maronite Church in Birmingham, US, serves as a spiritual home for the Maronite community, featuring traditional architecture and rich cultural heritage.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcome during services and events.

Irondale United Methodist Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

Birmingham

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Irondale United Methodist Church in Birmingham, USA, offers a vibrant community and historic significance dating back to the 1950s.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are encouraged for community programs.

Birmingham Jefferson Civic Center

9:00 AM–8:00 PM

Event hall

2100 Richard Arrington Blvd (19th)

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Birmingham Jefferson Civic Center is a premier event venue in Birmingham, Alabama, hosting concerts, conventions, and sports events in an expansive and flexible space.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Prices vary based on the event. Some community events may be free.

South Highland Presbyterian Church

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Highland Ave S (Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd S)

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South Highland Presbyterian Church in Birmingham offers a historic sanctuary built in 1928, known for its stunning architectural design and vibrant community involvement.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated for community programs.

Wilson Chapel Missionary Baptist Church

9:00 AM–1:00 PM

Church

3401-31st Avenue North

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Wilson Chapel Missionary Baptist Church in Birmingham offers a rich history and vibrant community events, a significant spiritual hub since 1924.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated for special events.

First Baptist Church of Acipco

9:00 AM–1:00 PM

Church

1629-32nd Avenue North

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First Baptist Church of Acipco in Birmingham, USA, established in 1947, emphasizes community service and features modern architectural design.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may have ticket requirements.

Canterbury United Methodist Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

350 Overbrook Rd

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Canterbury United Methodist Church in Birmingham, AL, offers spiritual services, community support, and a welcoming environment for congregation members.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcomed but not required for attendance.

Central Park Baptist Church

10:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

Birmingham

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Central Park Baptist Church in Birmingham offers a historic place of worship founded in 1915 known for its beautiful architecture and community impact.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcomed for community programs.

East Lake United Methodist Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

Birmingham

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East Lake United Methodist Church, established in 1922, is a historic church in Birmingham, known for its community services and beautiful architecture.

Duration: 1–2 hours.

Free. Donations are accepted for specific community programs.

First Baptist Church Of East Thomas

10:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

Birmingham

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First Baptist Church Of East Thomas in Birmingham, United States, features traditional architecture and community-centered activities, inviting visitors to explore its heritage.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcomed for community programs.

First Baptist Church of Kingston

10:00 AM–2:00 PM

Church

4240 9th Ave N

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First Baptist Church of Kingston in Birmingham, United States, stands as a historic landmark known for its rich community involvement and distinct architecture.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special donations are encouraged for renovations and community outreach programs.

First Ebenezer Baptist Church

10:00 AM–2:00 PM

Church

420 Graymont Avenue

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First Ebenezer Baptist Church, located in Birmingham, Alabama, is a historic church known for its significant role in the civil rights movement and distinctive architectural style.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated but not required for tours.

Highlands United Methodist Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

1045 20th St S

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Highlands United Methodist Church in Birmingham, established in 1925, is known for its beautiful architecture, inclusive community, and vibrant programs.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated to support community programs.