Unusual & Offbeat Destinations in Birmingham, United States
1. Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum
Explore the world's largest private collection of vintage racing motorcycles and automobiles, including a significant number of Barber-owned race cars.
- Unique Collection: Houses over 1,400 motorcycles and vehicles from various eras
- Race Car Simulator: Experience the thrill of racing in a simulated environment
- Historic Racetrack: Located adjacent to the museum, offers a unique opportunity for spectators
2. Vulcan Park and Museum
Stand atop the largest cast iron statue in the world - Vulcan, the Roman god of fire and forge, symbolizing Birmingham's steel industry.
- Iconic Sculpture: A 56-feet tall statue representing Birmingham's industrial heritage
- Observation Deck: Offers panoramic views of the city from its Skydeck
- Museum Exhibits: Includes exhibitions on Birmingham's history, culture, and industry
3. Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark
Step into the heart of the industrial revolution at these beautifully preserved iron furnaces from the late 19th century.
- Industrial Past: Preserves the history and spirit of Birmingham's iron industry
- Artist Residency Program: Offers opportunities for artists to create works on site during specific periods
- Guided Tours: Provides insights into the working conditions and processes of the furnaces
4. The Redmont Hotel
Visit the oldest hotel in Birmingham, where President Roosevelt once stayed, offering a glimpse into the city's past.
- Historical Significance: Built in 1925 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places
- Roof-Top Bar: Enjoy stunning city views from the Skybar while sipping signature cocktails
- Restored Elegance: Beautifully restored interiors showcase the hotel's art deco charm
5. The Birmingham Botanical Gardens
Stroll through 67.5 acres of beautifully maintained gardens showcasing plants from around the world.
- World's Collection: Showcases over 12,000 different types of plants
- Japanese Garden: Features traditional Japanese gardens with authentic teahouse and koi pond
- Rosa Parks Memorial Rose Garden: Dedicated to the civil rights icon, featuring a variety of rose varieties
6. The Birmingham Museum of Art
Marvel at an extensive collection of artworks spanning over 5,000 years from cultures worldwide.
- Diverse Collection: Offers a comprehensive look at various art forms and periods
- Free Admission: Admission to the museum is always free of charge
- Guided Tours: Provides guided tours upon request, offering insights into the exhibits
7. The Birmingham Zoo
Meet over 950 animals from around the world at this beloved zoological park.
- Animal Encounters: Offers close encounters with some of the animals through interactive exhibits
- Wild Africa Exhibit: Features a walk-through habitat showcasing African wildlife
- Sea Lion Splash Show: Enjoy daily performances by the playful sea lions
8. The Bottletree Cafe
Relax in a bohemian setting while enjoying delicious vegetarian cuisine and live music.
- Bohemian Vibe: Inspired by the counterculture movement, offers an eclectic ambiance
- Live Music: Hosts live music performances most nights of the week
- Vegetarian Cuisine: Offers a variety of vegetarian options and vegan friendly dishes
9. The Avondale Brewing Company
Sample local craft beers in a fun and casual setting, with regular events and food trucks on site.
- Local Beers: Offers a variety of unique craft beers brewed on-site
- Food Trucks: Regularly hosts food trucks for visitors to enjoy while sampling beers
- Live Music and Events: Hosts live music events, trivia nights, and other activities
10. The Red Diamond Gallery
Discover contemporary art and exhibitions in this unique, underground gallery space.
- Underground Location: Located beneath the Redmont Hotel in a historic vault
- Contemporary Art: Showcases cutting-edge art from local and international artists
- Artist Talks and Workshops: Offers opportunities for visitors to engage with the artists
11. The Bham Terminal Studio
Experience local art and creativity in a renovated historic train station, offering classes, workshops, and exhibitions.
- Historic Building: Located in the beautifully restored Linn-Henley Terminal
- Art Classes and Workshops: Offers various art classes for visitors of all skill levels
- Exhibitions: Features rotating exhibitions showcasing local and regional artists
12. The Pepper Place Market
Shop for locally produced goods, fresh produce, and delicious food at this vibrant weekly market.
- Local Products: Offers a wide variety of goods from local vendors
- Farmers Market: Sells fresh, locally grown produce and artisanal foods
- Artisan Boutiques: Features a selection of local artisans selling their handmade goods
13. The Secret Garden at the Botanical Research Center
Explore this hidden gem within the Birmingham Botanical Gardens, showcasing exotic and rare plants.
- Hidden Gem: Located within the Birmingham Botanical Gardens but requires a guided tour for entry
- Exotic Plants: Showcases plants from tropical rainforests and deserts alike
- Guided Tours: Provides insights into the rare and exotic plant species found within
14. The Magic City Art Connection
Shop for unique artworks from over 200 artists at this annual outdoor festival in downtown Birmingham.
- Annual Festival: Held annually in April at Linn Park
- Art Market: Offers a wide variety of unique artworks from regional and national artists
- Live Music and Food: Includes live music performances and food vendors on site
15. The Vulcan Park and Museum's Twilight Tours
Experience the beauty of Birmingham at night during a guided tour of the Vulcan Statue and park.
- Night Tour: Provides a unique perspective on the city after dark
- Guided Experience: Led by knowledgeable guides, offering insights into the city's history and Vulcan's role
- Stunning City Views: Offers breathtaking views of the Birmingham skyline at night