Birmingham, Alabama, is located in the heart of the Deep South and often referred to as the “Magic City.” From its Civil Rights heritage to a diversity of unique culinary offerings, the city has a wide assortment of activities to explore and enjoy.
The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute is an opportunity to learn more about the area’s history. The 16th Street Baptist Church is the location of a tragic bombing in 1963 and a must-visit site for insight into the struggles and triumphs of the Civil Rights Movement. To take in the beautiful scenery, sunshine and fresh air, visitors and locals alike head to Railroad Park. Nineteen acres offer walking trails, playgrounds and the perfect spot for a family picnic, leisurely stroll or a game of catch or frisbee with friends. For the art enthusiast, the Birmingham Museum of Art is home to an inspiring collection of over 27,000 works. From ancient to contemporary art, the museum showcases a diverse range of exhibits. Nearby Vulcan Park draws crowds to the world’s largest cast iron statue. The Vulcan statue stands fifty-six feet tall, from toe to spear point. It’s situated on a 124-foot pedestal rising to a height of 180 feet. It weighs 101,200 pounds and is the biggest metal statue ever made in the United States. History buffs head to Sloss Furnaces, originally an active iron-producing blast furnace and now a National Historic Landmark, for guided tours that provide information about the industrial heritage of Birmingham. From the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame and Birmingham Botanical Gardens to a huge selection of restaurants, the city is a vibrant hub of culture, history and entertainment.