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Birmingham (Alabama) holidays

Travellers and cabin class

A trip to Birmingham offers a fascinating window into America’s deep south. Explore the city’s troubled history on a tour of the Civil Rights District, and learn how Black citizens fought for equality in the 1960s. From jazz museums and free art galleries to wildlife centres and some of the most famous BBQ in the United States, Alabama’s biggest city keeps moving forward.

The best neighbourhoods in Birmingham, Alabama

Downtown Birmingham

If you want to be close to the top sights, Downtown is the best area to stay in Birmingham. This is the historic heart of the city, where major players in the Civil Rights Movement organised protests in the 1960s. Visit 16th Street Baptist Church and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute to find out more about the end of segregation across the Southern states.

Good for: Museums, history, churches

Five Points South

Five Points South is the place to go for bars, pubs, beer gardens and nightlife. This lively district is also home to Vulcan Park & Museum, where you’ll find the Vulcan Statue, one of Birmingham’s most recognisable symbols, and a lasting tribute to the iron smelting industry the city is founded on.

Good for: Beer gardens, nightlife, industrial history

Lakeview District

If you’re thirsting for craft beer or hungry for Southern BBQ and hot chicken, Lakeview District is where to stay in Birmingham. Craft breweries, cafes and gourmet restaurants have moved into the old factories and bottling plants of Birmingham’s former industrial heartland. Head to Pepper Place on Saturdays for one of the biggest farmers markets in the state.

Good for: Restaurants, farmers markets, craft beer

Things to do in Birmingham, Alabama

Family-friendly things to do

There are some great things to do with family in Birmingham. The McWane Science Center features interactive exhibits and an IMAX Dome, while the Alabama Wildlife Center offers a peek into local wildlife conservation. Experience the excitement of game days at Regions Field, home of the Birmingham Barons minor league baseball team. Or hit the family-friendly hiking paths at Red Mountain Park.

Take in the culture

There’s an impressive amount of history to unwrap at the best museums in Birmingham. Visit the Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark for insight into Birmingham’s industrial past. The Birmingham Museum of Art offers an upbeat look at the city’s creative side, while the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame is perfect for music lovers.

Places to eat

In the Deep South, BBQ isn’t just a meal — it’s a way of life. The best restaurants in Birmingham take their Southern BBQ seriously, and you can load up on beef briskets, pulled pork and hickory-smoked ribs at local BBQ joints. Fiery hot chicken and mac and cheese are other favourites. More into seafood? Try the Southern bouillabaisse.