Birmingham Alabama Travel Information
Located in the rolling foothills of the Appalachian Mountains,
Birmingham was founded in 1871 at the crossing of two railroad lines.
The city prospered through the early 1900s, and established itself as
the South's leading industrial center. After facing setbacks during
the Depression, the city slowly made a comeback and began to
re-establish itself in the post- WWII era. Today, those visiting
Birmingham will enjoy discovering a diverse city that successfully
balances history, culture and tradition with an eclectic mix of
exciting activities. This balance of old and new, with a dash of
southern charm is what helps make Birmingham such a popular
destination. Birmingham’s downtown features a healthy variety of
business- including rare antiques, original local art, endless
specialty shops, a variety of dining opportunities, and a solid
nightlife scene. Five Points South is one of the most popular
shopping and entertainment districts the city offers. Although
shopping is a big hit, visitors will also discover several major,
nationally recognized attractions in Birmingham that beg to be
explored. The Birmingham Museum of Art is one such attraction.
Recognized as not only the largest municipal museum in the Southeast,
but also one of the premier regional museums in the country. The
Birmingham Zoo offers more than 700 wild animals, an interactive
aviary, and an alligator swamp. The Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame, located
in the historic Carver Theatre for the Performing Arts, is dedicated
to the great jazz artists whom have ties to the state of
Alabama. Visitors should explore the nearby Birmingham Civil
Rights Institute. The Institute honors those who fought against
racial discrimination. Both the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame, and The
Birmingham Civil Rights Institute are located within Birmingham’s
historic Civil Rights District. Kelly Ingram Park serves as the
entrance to this special area. The park hosted a multitude of civil
rights demonstrations during the 1960s, and even witnessed attacks on
demonstrators, which shocked the nation. Today, the park is
considered a place of peace and hope, and sculptures dot the park,
honoring those who sacrificed for the civil rights
movement. Those who find themselves in Birmingham during the
month of May should make time to experience the Do Dah Day Festival.
This outdoor music festival attracts more than 45,000 people each year
to the city’s Southside. Visitors will discover several
remarkable parks in and around Birmingham. Tannehill Ironworks
Historical State Park honors Birmingham's iron and steel industry.
This is a state park like no other- and one sure to be remembered for
years to come. Centered on the ruins of the pre-Civil War Tannehill
Ironworks, the park depicts life during the mid-1800s through a
pioneer farm, church, cotton gin, and a working grist mill. The park
also offers 1,500 acres that are perfect for hiking, and horseback
riding. Rickwood Caverns State Park offers visitors a unique,
captivating experience. Guided tours of the mile long cavern reveal
fascinating natural wonders, such as shell and marine life fossils, an
underground pool, and colorful structures. Children will be
especially fascinated. Alabama's Sipsey Wilderness Area is
situated 90 miles northwest of Birmingham, and contains an incredible
25,000 acres. This remarkably beautiful wilderness area offers the
usual hiking, fishing and hunting, but surprises visitors with its
lush canyons and mesmerizing waterfalls. While visiting
Birmingham, two wonderful side trip opportunities exist with visits to
the towns of Bessemer and Tuskegee. Originally named Brooklyn,
Bessemer was founded in 1887. The city was largely built around the
once-thriving steel making industry. In fact, the industry was so
successful it became famous as a leader in the heavy industry
arena. Today, Bessemer boasts a lovely historic downtown,
sixteen blocks of which are registered on the National Register of
Historic Places. Beautiful architecture and a friendly atmosphere
help make for a relaxing afternoon of visiting shops, eateries, and
the unique galleries that dot the area. A sure stop for those
wanting to learn more about the area is the Bessemer Hall of History,
located inside a renovated railway depot. The museum offers visitors
a step back in time, and explores what the city was like years ago
through monthly exhibitions. Those who enjoy golf should
consider packing their clubs! Golf is a popular activity in Bessemer,
as the area is known to sport a wealth of exceptional public courses.
Cyclists will enjoy a wealth of opportunities to explore their sport.
Oak Mountain State Park, Cheaha State Park, the Choccolocco Wildlife
Management Area, and Bankhead National Forest all offer excellent
off-road biking opportunities. More adventure can be found at
Visionland Theme Park. The park contains four separate themed areas,
including an enormous playground, a water-park, a wooden roller
coaster, and a replica of an old-fashioned town. Tuskegee is
home to the famous Tuskegee Institute. Now recognized as a National
Historic Site, Booker T. Washington founded the Tuskegee Institute.
The site has played a large role in the educational and social
advancement of African Americans. The historic site also includes the
George Washington Carver Museum. While in Tuskegee, visitors who
enjoy nature should spend a few hours (or days) at the wonderfully
preserved, 11,000-acre Tuskegee National Forest. Birmingham is
located near the center of the state, at the intersection of
Interstates 20 and 65. Birmingham is about 90 miles north of
Montgomery, AL.
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