Birmingham, Alabama, is known as “The Dinner Table of the South.” From the country’s best barbecue to global dishes with the influence of the American South, Birmingham’s dining scene is one to relish. The energetic entertainment community includes symphony performances and an active, historic Theater District.
The city was ground zero for the American Civil Rights Movement, now drawing visitors from around the world to immerse themselves in the historic events. Golfers come to play Birmingham’s courses on the world-renown Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. The city’s entertainment districts are lively and inviting, and attractions are plentiful.
Sara Hamlin, VP of Tourism for the Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau, said, “Tour groups have a grand time when they come to Birmingham. Themed tour itineraries are well-suited for many interests, and dining options such as The Pizitz Food Hall are ideal for groups visiting the area.”
To be in Birmingham is to be in the arms of the South.
ASK
Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau
205-458-8000
birminghamal.org
ADMIRE
At the Vulcan Park and Museum is the largest cast iron statue in the world. Vulcan was Birmingham’s entry in the 1904 World’s Fair. He won first prize there and stands today as a symbol of the city’s birth in the iron and steel industry.
More industrial history is at Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark, now a municipal museum, where the stacks stand tall against the sky, a reminder of city’s gutsy beginnings.
SEE
Barber Vintage Motorsports Park is a beautifully-designed facility that holds the world’s largest collection of antique and contemporary motorcycles and Lotus cars. Visitors to the museum are often bike enthusiasts and, just as often, simply admirers of the handsome machinery.
The collection is privately owned by Birmingham magnate George Barber who built the museum of share with the public. Adjacent is Barber Motorsports Park, home to the Honda Indy Grand Prix of Alabama.
REMEMBER
The Birmingham Civil Rights District was ground zero for the Birmingham Civil Rights Campaign of the 1960s. Here, the infamous police dogs and fire hoses were unleashed on demonstrators who resolutely continued their quest for equal rights.
Add the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute to your itinerary for guided tours through the perils and victories of the movement. Across the street, Sixteenth Street Baptist Church memorializes four girls who were killed there in 1963 in a race-related bombing.
PLAY
Practice the Tarzan call and get ready to swing at Red Mountain Park. The park, reflecting Birmingham’s industrial history, is also filled with entertaining activities. Try the Mega Zip and cruise through the canopy of trees. Or try your hands…and feet…on the Adventure Tower, unlike any other climbing tower in the country. The park is also a great place to take a long nature hike in the inviting countryside.