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30 Inspiring Things to Do in Historic Birmingham, Alabama for History Lovers

Last Updated on: 22nd January 2024, 03:34 pm

There are so many great things to do in Birmingham, Alabama! But of course, the history bits are some of the best Birmingham activities, and many of them are can’t-miss!

When President Obama signed an executive order creating the Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument in 2017, he was cementing what so many Americans already know, that Birmingham has played a pivotal role in our nation’s history.

Thus any American interested in seeing the country’s history in places from Boston to Philadelphia should put historic Birmingham on their must-visit list.

When you’re here, there are so many different places to visit in the city that it easily can fill up two or three days. Here are the best things to do in Birmingham, Alabama for history lovers who want to dig deeper into our country’s story. 

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The Best Things to Do in Historic Birmingham

Here’s what to do in Birmingham, with a few food and drink suggestions thrown in as well. I’ve mainly stuck to the best sites in historic Birmingham, but there are a few other must-sees and fun items on here as well.

Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument

First, no trip to Birmingham is complete without visiting the Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument (BCRNM). I’ve listed many of the site’s components below, but I suggest you plan your visit so that you understand the history as much as possible.

A few suggestions would be to either hire a private guide to show you the area and explain the significance of each spot as you go, or to start with the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute (next) and then see the surrounding sites individually.

I have traveled to many historic sites, and it’s almost impossible to take in what you need to on your own without a guide or without at least getting the story first.

I had the privilege of seeing the site with Barry McNealy, education and programming consultant of the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute. You can listen to my interview with him about the history of Birmingham and the work that went into creating the site here :

While you should listen to the interview, I really can’t express enough how much my visit was enhanced by having an expert explaining the site to us. 

>> Check tour availability for the Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument here. <<

Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

Whether you go on a tour of the site or you choose to go on your own, a visit to the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute is a must for understanding the history of Birmingham.

There’s nothing quite as powerful as being confronted with the instruments of white supremacy as the collection of artifacts that are on display here.

Plan to spend a few hours digging into the exhibits here.

The most famous artifact on display is the jail cell that Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was held in where he wrote the “Letter from a Birmingham Jail” in 1963. 

However, don’t just explore the fight for good. It’s here where you really can learn about how white supremacy works and see it’s legacy through today.

If you’re white, it’s your responsibility to learn not just about how things were but to see what that means about the world we live in today.

16th Street Baptist Church

Across the street from the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute is the most famous historic site in Birmingham, the 16th Street Baptist Church. In 1963, the church was bombed by the KKK and four young girls were lost. 

The church was targeted by the KKK for its role in the Civil Rights Movement, and the history of the church is much larger than the events of a single day.

The church is nearly one hundred and fifty years old and was founded as the first black Baptist church in Alabama, and they moved into the current building in 1911.

For decades, the church had been a major stop for prominent African Americans thinkers, including W.E.B. Dubois and Mary McLeod Bethune. 

The church was a major meeting place for the local civil rights movement, with leaders planning marches and demonstrations.

You can listen to the events that lead up to the bombing and what happened on that day in my interview.  You can also read up on the history of the church on their extensive website.  

If you are traveling with a group of ten or more, you can schedule a tour with the church. The cost is $5 per person. If you are traveling in a smaller group, you can visit the church without a tour. All the information to plan your visit is here . 

Kelly Ingram Park

Across the street from the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute and caddy-corner to the 16th Street Baptist Church is Kelly Ingram Park, an important part of the BCRNM. 

Historically, the park was an important meeting point for the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, and it was the site of protests, demonstrations, sit-ins, including children’s protests. 

You can read all about the park’s significance here . 

Today you walk through the park and see statues reenacting the violence and other events that took place here, including firehoses being unleashed on protesters and children in jail.

The Carver Theatre for the Performing Arts & Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame

A Birmingham cultural icon, the Carver Theater was a place where Black Birmingham could see movies during the era when theaters were segregated. 

The theater now holds live performances and is home to the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame. 

Even if you don’t have time for a visit to the jazz museum, you can appreciate the Art Moderne architecture. 

Gaston Motel

The grandson of a former slave, A.G. Gaston was a World War I veteran and one of the most important and wealthiest African American businessmen in the mid-twentieth century. 

Gaston owned many businesses in Birmingham. The motel served the city’s African American travelers with beautiful accommodations. You can read all about the motel’s central role in the Civil Rights movement here .

Located by the 16th Street Baptist Church and Kelly Ingram Park, the motel is part of the BCRNM.

The building has been vacant since the 1990s, but the National Park Service is working with the city to restore the building. 

You can stroll by the building while you walk around the BCRNM site. 

Fourth Avenue Historic District

Going beyond the boundaries of the National Monument, the Fourth Avenue Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and preserves the history of Birmingham’s black business and cultural institutions during the era of the Jim Crow South. 

Some of the other sites on this list are part of the district, like the Carver Theatre and the Masonic Temple. However, a visit here includes walking around the blocks and soaking in the history and architecture, beyond just rushing from building to building. 

Negro Southern League Baseball Museum

Even if you’re not a huge baseball fan, you need to spend some time at the Negro Southern League Baseball Museum.

I like baseball, but I’m not really into baseball history, yet I found myself completely enthralled during my visit here.

The Negro Southern League served as a feeder league to the Negro American and Negro National League and was one of the most popular things to do in Birmingham when the teams were playing from 1920-1951.

Admission is free. You can plan your visit here . 

The Black Masonic Temple

Built in 1923, the Prince Hall Masons played a pivotal role in both the Civil Rights Movement and civic life in the Fourth Avenue Historic District. Today the building is closed, but you can see pictures of what it looks like inside here . You can walk by during your visit since its part of the BCRNM.

There are preservation efforts underway.

Alabama Penny Savings Bank

Alternatively referred to as the Pythian Temple, the Alabama Penny Savings Bank was built in 1913. The company was the first black-owned bank in Alabama.

At the time it was the largest and strongest black-owned bank in the US, and it financed the loans for black-owned businesses and homes. 

It’s an important site when you visit the Fourth Avenue Historic District. 

Alabama Sports Hall of Fame

If you love sports history, head to the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame to explore the museum dedicated to Alabama sports.

Anyone who has paid attention to American sports knows that Alabama has played a huge role in American sports history. You can learn about the Hall of Fame and details for visiting here . 

Alabama Theatre

This gorgeous 1920s theater is a movie palace that was built by Paramount to showcase the studio’s movies.

It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in the 1970s. Inside the theater has been renovated but retains its historical integrity and beauty, including an original Wurlitzer organ. 

Today, the sign is a popular Instagram spot. If you want to see a show inside the theater, you can check their upcoming events here . If you’d like to add some flair to your night at the theater, you can visit a local jewelry shop such as  Levy’s Fine Jewelry  to put a unique spin on your visit.

Heaviest Corner in the World

I learned the history of the Heaviest Corner in the World when I stayed at the Elyton Hotel. I wrote up a review of my stay including an overview of the history  here . 

If you don’t want to stay at the Elyton but still want to come and appreciate this piece of Birmingham, you can get drinks at the hotel’s rooftop bar, Moonshine.

The Pizitz Food Hall

Located in the 1920s, the Pizitz building is located in the middle of Birmingham’s historic retail and theater district. Once a mid-century department store, the newly renovated Pizitz Food Hall adds a bit of the modern world to this important spot.

While I ran right to Unos Tacos, the food hall is home to many different restaurants, making this a great place for families and groups traveling together to eat since everyone can pick out their cuisine. They have everything from traditional southern cuisine to Nepalese food to Poke bowls and Pho.

Highlands Bar & Grill

If you want to experience the best of Birmingham’s fine dining scene, enjoy a dinner out at Highland Bar & Grill where James Beart award-winner Chef Frank Stitt combines southern cooking with traditional French techniques for something truly exquisite.

Opened in 1982, it has become a Birmingham institution.

Sloss Furnace

This trippy National Historic Landmark was one of the largest industrial manufacturers in the world at the end of the nineteenth century.

Today, besides being a popular Birmingham Instagram spot, it’s a great place to appreciate Birmingham’s industrial roots.

The plant closed in 1970 but is opened today offering both self-guided and group tours. You can get tour information here .

Birmingham Museum of Art

I love visiting American art museums , and the Birmingham Museum of Art is a great American art museum, with over 24,000 items in its collection.

While the American, Folk, and Contemporary Art collections are wonderful, its the Alabama art collection that’s a must-see, featuring artwork integral to the state’s history.

Botanical Gardens

I used to skip botanical gardens when I travel, but not anymore. I’ve become a complete convert. There’s nothing lovelier than wandering through manicured gardens and enjoying their tranquility.

They’re also a personal favorite of mine for taking Instagram pics since they usually have some great architecture and interesting photo spots. 

The Birmingham Botanical Gardens opened in 1963 and have been delighting visitors for over fifty years. Make sure to visit the Japanese Garden and the Southern Living Garden.

Five Points South

One of the most beautiful and architecturally significant areas of Birmingham outside of downtown, Five Points South is a must-see.

Storyteller Fountain and Five Points Circle are the two most famous spots, but enjoy walking around this area soaking in the Victorian and Art Deco architecture.

McWane Science Center

If you’re planning your history-centric visit to Birmingham with kids, then a stop at McWane Science Center is a great way to inspire them to appreciate the sciences as well!

This interactive museum has aquariums, dinosaurs, and an IMAX theater – perfect for creating wonder and excitement in littles!

Railroad Park

While most come to Railroad Park, nicknamed “Birmingham’s Livingroom,” for its beautiful Instagram-worthy view of the city’s skyline, the park is a great destination to get outside and enjoy some fresh air. It’s connected to Sloss Furnace by a walking trail.

Southern Museum of Flight

Home to over one hundred aircraft, this museum chronicles the early history of flight and its connection to the southeast. The highlight is the Tuskeegee Airmen exhibit, which is a must-see if you won’t be able to get out to Tuskeegee during your time in Alabama.

Okay, full disclosure. Topgolf is not a historic Birmingham site. It’s not even local to Birmingham since it’s a national chain. However, it’s awesome, so I’m including it.

If you’re looking for something to do in Birmingham at night while you’re on vacation, but you don’t want to go clubbing, I highly recommend Topgolf.

You can sit around outside, order drinks, eat snacks, and shoot some balls without having to be good at golf or feeling weird being out in a club or at a bar. This is especially great for families. 

Vulcan Park & Museum

Birmingham was founded in 1871 during reconstruction, and it was one of the most important industrial cities in America during its heyday.

The mining, iron, steel, and rail industries were key to its early boomtown success, leading to its nickname as the Magic City.

If you want to explore this side of Birmingham’s history, take a visit to Vulcan Park. You can find opening times and information on visiting the accompanying museum  here .

Regions Field

Baseball has been an important part of Alabama history since 1885. If you go to the museum but still want to get a taste of the sport, check out a game at Region’s Field.

The Birmingham Barons and the UAB Dragons both call this field home. 

You can find Barons tickets here and UAB tickets here .

Oak Hill Cemetary

The first cemetery in Alabama to be enshrined on the National Register of Historic Places, Oak Hill Cemetary was Birmingham’s first cemetery and opened in 1871.

If you love to explore old cemeteries like I do, you’ll be excited to know that they offer history tours open to the public. Check here for tour information and scheduling.

Liberty Park

If seeing NYC’s Statue of Liberty isn’t in the cards in the near future, then you can pay a visit to Birmingham’s version instead! And while it may not be the real thing, it’s no joke. It stands thirty-six feet tall atop a sixty-foot pedestal. 

The statue is no cheap knock-off either. It was cast in France in the 1950s. It was located in downtown until the late eighties, but it’s now in Vestavia Hills, a southeastern suburb.

Rainbow LED Tunnel

These funky light tunnels are permanent art installations in downtown Birmingham.

While they do make the perfect Birmingham Instagram spot, they’re also just fun and cheery. You can find them at the historic viaducts at 14th, 18th, 19th and 20th Streets downtown.

What to Pack for Birmingham, Alabama

Alabama Off the Beaten Path   guidebook. It can be kind of a pain to find the major guidebooks once you land, or you’ll find them overpriced. I always like to pick mine up ahead of time.

An Unlocked  Cell Phone   so that you can use a local sim card while here to help navigate public transportation and when you’re on the road. (For people without American cell phone plans).

Backup Charging Bank  for your cell phone since you’ll be using it as a camera, GPS, and general travel genie.

A Camera  since Alabama is super photogenic. I use a mix of my  Nikon D810  and my   Samsung8  smartphone these days.

A Great Day Bag   so you can carry what you need with you (like your camera, snacks, water, sunscreen, cash, etc). My current favorite is the  Pacsafe Citysafe , which is especially great for cities because it has many anti-theft features designed to deter pickpockets. It also transitions to a night bag more easily and won’t embarrass you if you go to dinner directly after sightseeing all day. 

More Birmingham Travel Resources

Planning a visit to Alabama? Check out my interview about Birmingham’s role in the Civil Rights Movement and my in-depth review of the Elyton Hotel.

Don’t Forget About Travel Insurance!

Before you leave for Alabama make sure you have a valid  Travel  Insurance Policy  because accidents happen on the road. I pay for  World Nomads,  and I happily recommend them. It’s especially important to get travel insurance if you’ll be hanging enjoying time in the beautiful (but occasionally slippery) outdoors or in cities where tourists can be targeted by pickpockets. 

I have been a paying customer of  World Nomads  for travel insurance for three years, and I happily recommend them.  If you get sick, injured, or have your stuff stolen, you’ll be happy to have the ability to pay for your medical bills or replace what’s stolen or broken.

Pin this Guide to the Best Historic Things to Do in Birmingham for Your Trip!

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Meet The Magic City 

Price - $70 | days - tuesday-friday | time - 1:45 pm | length - 3 hours.

Welcome to our most historical tour of Birmingham, AL. It is here where we focus on all the good and bad the city has endured. 

From its founding to its foundries, from our city fathers to civil rights, we crisscross Bham checking out historic sites all over town. We'll learn about the history of iron and how it created the industrial capital of the south. We'll get a great look an ancient Roman god and see a full moon always on display.

We'll also learn how a local built the oldest ballpark in America, and we'll shed a little light on the children who marched in May of 1963.

We try to provide you with a glimpse into the life and times of Birmingham from its origins to present day. 

More details below and a list of places we typically visit on this tour...

The Fine Print

Some of the sites will we visit: Railroad Park, Sloss Furnaces, Vulcan Park, Rickwood Field, Negro Southern League Museum, Morris Avenue, Kelley Ingram Park, 16th Street Baptist Church, Legion Field . Unforeseen circumstances may alter our set plan, but we will attempt to add another location if one is not available.

For those staying in Birmingham, we will pick you up from any downtown hotel location or a downtown Airbnb.  We encourage all others to use  local taxi services,   Uber , Zyp bike , or the  max bus  when arriving/departing.

We meet at  Railroad Park  in front of the large " Railroad Park " sign at the main pavilion,  across from the 17th St. S. and 1st Ave, S intersection . If you have any questions about whether your place is in downtown, please contact us directly. If you are driving and parking downtown, there is some parking around the park and blocks nearby. 

The tours begin promptly at 1:45. Please arrive 10-15 minutes prior to the start time to ensure we are able to begin on time. We leave Railroad Park 15 minutes after the tour start time and cannot accommodate  arrivals past that point. Refunds or discounts will not be given to late arrivals. ​

Your ticket cost covers transportation between all locations, facilities, and a drop off back at Railroad Park.  

The Birmingham Historic Touring Company

Step into Birmingham's storied past with the Birmingham Historic Touring Company, a locally owned and operated company. We offer an array of engaging experiences, from guided tours that provide a unique window into the city's vibrant history, showcasing its architectural marvels, cultural gems, and intriguing stories, to exclusive ghost tours that uncover the city's spine-tingling mysteries and ghostly tales.

Adding a delectable dimension to your journey, our food tours are a culinary adventure through Birmingham's diverse gastronomic landscape. Sample the city's finest flavors, from soulful Southern comfort food to international delights..

At the Birmingham Historic Touring Company, we take pride in being a locally owned and community-focused business, not a faceless national chain. We are dedicated to delivering immersive, educational, and entertaining experiences for history enthusiasts, foodies, and thrill-seekers alike. Join us as we bring Birmingham's rich history and delectable cuisine to life.

Getting There

Located in the heart of downtown Birmingham, Alabama - right on 20th Street North

• 219 20th Street North
• Birmingham, AL 35203

Where to Stay

Comfort inn homewood, southern comfort motel, days inn birmingham, travel inn birmingham, hampton inn & suites birmingham/280 east-eagle point, renaissance ross bridge golf resort and spa, home2 suites by hilton birmingham downtown, budgetel inn & suites hoover, best western plus inn and suites birmingham, econo lodge, upcoming events, birmingham walking tour- the kiwanis vulcan trail, my yoke is easy and my burden is light, lebanese food and cultural festival, mutt strut 2024, 41st annual magic city art connection, historic hollywood tour of homes, the great alabama public television barbecue cook-off, regions tradition, disney and cameron mackintosh's mary poppins, where to eat, carlile's barbeque, the craft burger, slice pizza & brew, bud's best cookies, helen restaurant, urban cookhouse, find your alabama sweet spot.

Find the sweetest Alabama vacation spot perfectly suited just for you. Customize your next Alabama vacation by the type of experience you are looking for, then filter by the region of Alabama you want to visit. Don't know what your Alabama destination should be? Let our interactive location map be your guide. Now, where is your next Alabama Sweet Spot?

The Marketplace at Lee Branch

RideBHM Bike Park

The Market at Pepper Place

Jim 'N Nick's Bar-B-Q

Birmingham Museum of Art

Courtyard by Marriott Birmingham Trussville

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Everything Alabama has to offer —in one easy place!

Looking for information on state parks, hot spots to have fun in the sun, or the best places for fishing or bird-watching? How about the world’s best museums or science centers? The Alabama Vacation guide will help you discover so many new and unique experiences. No matter where you’re headed or what you feel like doing, the Alabama vacation guide will get started on the right path.

Fill out your information below to receive a printed guide and Alabama state highway map in the mail. Note: Currently we only send mail inside the United States. All fields are required unless otherwise specified.

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You are here > Home > Inspire Me > Birmingham Blog > Birmingham History and Heritage

Birmingham History and Heritage

Birmingham is quite rightly famed for the pivotal role it played in the Industrial Revolution, earning the well-deserved nicknames ‘the workshop of the world’ and ‘the city of a thousand trades’. However, there’s so much more to discover about Birmingham’s rich history by digging a little deeper at our fantastic museums and historic houses, or on our many guided tours.

Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery is currently undergoing renovation but you can still enjoy fantastic exhibitions about life in the city on topics including 90’s club culture, the story of the city’s cinemas and the search for equality amongst Asian and African Caribbean communities.

A short train or bus ride from the city centre takes you to Bournville, home of Birmingham’s most popular visitor attraction, Cadbury World . As well as telling the history of chocolate you can learn about how the Cadbury family built a model village to ensure that their workforce was among the best looked after in the country.

Explore the history of the Industrial Revolution

You can learn about the inventive and entrepreneurial minds of Matthew Boulton, James Watt and William Murdock and their world-changing innovations at Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum . Explore Soho House , Boulton’s elegant Georgian home and the meeting place of the leading thinkers of the Midlands Enlightenment, the Lunar Society.

You can step back in time and take a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the lives of the people who worked in the factories (many of whom were skilled craftswomen) at the Pen Museum and the Coffin Works in the Jewellery Quarter. And there are guided tours of the nearby English Heritage museum, J.W. Evans’s Silver Factory .

The National Trust Back to Backs takes us into the crowded and claustrophobic homes of working people from the 1840s to the 1970s, not unlike those seen in the hit TV series, Peaky Blinders. Over at the West Midlands Police Museum set in the former Victorian lock-up near the city’s courts, you can discover the story of over two centuries of policing along with compelling accounts of those who stepped on the wrong side of the law.

Digging deeper

Learn about dinosaurs, fossils and the story of how the Earth was formed at the fascinating Lapworth Museum of Geology at the University of Birmingham. Whilst you’re on campus, it would be a huge shame not to visit the other attractions just ten minutes’ walk away. The Barber Institute of Fine Art houses one of the finest small collections of European art by almost all of the great masters. Across the road, you will find Winterbourne House and Garden , an exquisite Edwardian villa decorated in the style of the Arts and Crafts movement inspired by the likes of William Morris, and the colourful Grade II listed botanical garden.

The magnificent Grade I listed Aston Hall dates from the 17 th century and was the home of the Holte family. The guided tour takes in the beautifully adorned rooms including the must-see oak-panelled Long Gallery, when it hosted kings and queens, how it became the site of a Civil War stand-off and why it is one of the country’s most haunted buildings.

Other historic buildings well worth a visit include the mid-18 th century Sarehole Mill which captivated a young J.R.R. Tolkien who lived across the road. The rural surroundings and nearby Moseley Bog were his inspirations for the Shire and the Old Forest in The Hobbit. You will find picture-perfect, timber-framed, Tudor houses at Blakesley Hall and Selly Manor Museum . And Weoley Castle ruins are the remains of a fortified manor house from 750 years ago.

Tours and self-guided walks

Taking a guided tour is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and soak up the sights and history of Birmingham. Companies such as Positively Birmingham and Birmingham Heritage Walking Tours have a great range of themed walks on the city’s architecture, canals, public art and even pubs.

Black Heritage Walks Network tours explore the city through stories of migration, the visits of famed international civil rights campaigners, and the contribution and successes of the Black community in Birmingham.

You can also take to the water with Birmingham Roundhouse’s kayak tours of the canals to learn about their history and see the city from a different perspective.

Also worth a mention are the many self-guided walks created by locals on the excellent Birmingham Gems website .

Find out more about the city’s history at Birmingham Heritage Forum .

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A virtual tour through 5 of Birmingham’s Historic Districts

• LAST UPDATED 06/02/20

Have you heard the term “historic district” thrown around? Yeah, me too. We took a virtual tour through some of Birmingham’s most prominent Historic Districts to learn more about what they are. Since Birmingham has too many historic districts to name, we picked 5 that you might be familiar with.

Birmingham’s Historic Districts

A Historic District is an area of town protected by a city ordinance. Once the city recognizes a Historic District, exterior changes to properties must be approved by the Birmingham Design Review Committee.

Most importantly, the Historic District designation helps save Birmingham’s most culturally significant buildings from being torn down in order to make way for new developments.

1. Morris Avenue/First Avenue North

• Location : 2000-2400 blocks of Morris Avenue and 2100-2500 blocks of 1st Avenue North
• Added to National Register of Historic Places : February 9, 1986

Known for its historic cobblestone streets, Morris Avenue/First Avenue is Birmingham’s oldest warehouse district. Is there any wonder the city chose the area as its first historic district in 1973? Morris is one of the best areas in downtown for a  self-guided walking tour , so be sure to squeeze it into your schedule.

The area grew rapidly due to its connection to Birmingham’s rail line, with the city’s first true train station, the Union Passenger Station , being on Morris Ave. The station remained on the avenue from 1887 to the early 1930s. 

2. Retail and Theatre District

• Location : roughly bounded by 3rd Avenue North, 24th Street North, 1st Avenue North, and 20th Street North
• Added to National Register of Historic Places : June 5, 1989

For the better part of a century, the center of downtown Long before the Riverchase Galleria and The Summit, the center of downtown Birmingham was the bustling heart of the city.  Department stores like Pizitz and Loveman, Joseph & Loeb sold everything from clothing to the newest color television. After shopping, visitors could be entertained at the Alabama and Lyric Theatres, among many others .

Recently, the Historic Theatre and Retail District has seen a flurry of redevelopments due to a renewed public interest in the area. Ladd Real Estate, for instance, is leading renovations of the former Family Dollar building and the Webb Building , Birmingham’s oldest building.

3. 4th Avenue Historic District

• Location : 4th Avenue North between 16th and 19th Streets
• Added to National Register of Historic Places : Feb 11, 1982
• Notable landmarks : Prince Hall Masonic Temple, Carver Theatre

During the Jim Crow era, discrimination and segregation kept black Birminghamians from shopping at most businesses. So, Birmingham’s 4th Avenue Historic District developed as the center for black-owned businesses to serve black customers.

The Prince Hall Masonic Temple is an excellent example. For decades, the Masonic Temple Building served as the areas center of commerce.  Most significantly, the Temple Building provided access to important businesses for the local black community. During segregation, it was one of the few places where black Birminghamians could see a doctor, check out a book, register to vote and more.

4. Civil Rights District

• Location : bound by 3rd Avenue North, 8th Avenue North, 15th Street North and 19th Street North
• Added to National Register of Historic Places : October 2006
• Notable landmarks: 16th Street Baptist Church, A.G. Gaston Motel, Kelly Ingram Park, Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

Just as Birmingham was the heart of the American Civil Rights Movement, this area was the heart of Birmingham’s Civil Rights Struggle from 1956 to 1963. In the center of the district is Kelly Ingram Park—named after Osmond Kelly Ingram, the first sailor in the United States to be killed in World War I. Statues of Martin Luther King, Jr. and the four girls killed in the 1963 Sixteenth Street Baptist Church Bombing honor the sacrifices made in pursuit of equality.

5. Automotive Historic District

• Location : roughly bounded by 1st Avenue North, 24th Street South, 5th Avenue South, and 20th Street South
• Added to National Register of Historic Places : June 30, 1991

Located just south of downtown Birmingham, the Automotive Historic District largely features buildings from 1900 to 1930.

The Automotive Historic District signifies the development of a secondary commercial district in Birmingham. From 1910 to 1940, the area transformed to become the center of automotive commerce in Birmingham.

Recently, Birmingham’s Ward Neely discovered hundred-year-old letters written behind wallpaper in an old hotel in the Automotive Historic District.

Which Historic District would you like to know more about? Tag us @bhamnow on social media and let us know!

Nathan Watson

Senior Content Producer + Photographer

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THE 10 BEST Birmingham Historical & Heritage Tours

Historical & heritage tours in birmingham.

• Walking Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Birmingham Slogging Gangs Walking Tour with Edward Shelby

2. Birmingham City Centre Daily Walking Tour (10:30am & 5:30pm)

3. From Canals and Victorians to Today's City: Birmingham Walking Tour

4. Cotswolds Full-Day Tour From Birmingham

5. Discovering Birmingham 2 hour Walking Tour to the Jewellery Quarter

6. Fun, Flexible Treasure Hunt Around Birmingham with Cryptic Clues & Hidden Gems

7. Birmingham's Public Art - City Centre Walking Tour

8. 2.5-Hours Walking Tour of Birmingham into Black Heritage Madiba

9. Red Brick Heart & Soul 10.30 - 12.15

10. Private Birmingham Family Walking Tour

11. Private Birmingham Canal Kayak Tour

12. Birmingham Mystery Adventure: The Fake Cheque Fiasco

13. Birmingham Walking Tour: Migration Stories from the Stratford Road

14. Best of Birmingham 12km Running Tour

15. Birmingham Private Self-Guided Walking Tour

16. Birmingham Private Walking Tour with a Professional Guide

17. Private Birmingham City Walking Tour

18. Jewellery Quarter of Birmingham: A Walking Adventure

19. Private 3 Hour Birmingham City & Jewellery Quarter Tour

20. Private Birmingham Ghosts & Gallows Tour

21. Iconic Birmingham: A Journey Through Heart & Heritage

22. Unique Corners of Birmingham – Walking Tour for Couples

What travellers are saying.

• Birmingham Slogging Gangs Walking Tour with Edward Shelby
• Birmingham City Centre Daily Walking Tour (10:30am & 5:30pm)
• From Canals and Victorians to Today's City: Birmingham Walking Tour
• Cotswolds Full-Day Tour From Birmingham
• Discovering Birmingham 2 hour Walking Tour to the Jewellery Quarter
• City Game Birmingham
• Positively Birmingham Walking Tours
• Explore Birmingham, Walking Tours
• Birmingham Heritage Walking Tours

Historical Highlights of Birmingham

• Multiple stops and photo ops around Birmingham
• Magnificent views of Birmingham from the Railroad Park
• Small-group tour with a maximum of six people
• See itinerary
• All taxes, fees and handling charges
• Driver/guide
• Live commentary on board
• All activities
• Air conditioned transportation
• 24 17th St S, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA We meet in front of the Railroad Park sign
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Infants must sit on laps
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Children must be accompanied by an adult
• Subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to significant weather (hurricane, tornado, or ice), you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund
• Any sight temporarily closed will be substituted with another sight in town
• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
• Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
• Guests should be prepared to walk the equivalent of one mile on the tour
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 14 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Similar experiences

• You'll start at 24 17th St S 24 17th St S, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA We meet in front of the Railroad Park sign See address & details
• 1 Birmingham's Railroad Park Stop: 20 minutes See details
• 2 Heaviest Corner on Earth Stop: 5 minutes See details
• 3 Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark Stop: 30 minutes See details
• 4 Kelly Ingram Park Stop: 10 minutes See details
• 5 Civil Rights District Stop: 5 minutes See details
• 6 16th Street Baptist Church Stop: 5 minutes See details
• 7 Rickwood Field Park Stop: 10 minutes See details Pass by Alabama Theatre
• 8 Vulcan Park and Museum Stop: 15 minutes See details
• You'll return to the starting point

• mshellv 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great tour of a sobering history This was a well done, fascinating tour. Mike was knowledgeable and answered all of our questions. We got much more out of these sights than we would have if we were going on our own. If you want to explore the civil rights history of the area, I highly recommend this tour! Read more Written March 16, 2024
• N5852BKnancyg 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Red Clay and Mike are terrific!!! Mike is amazing! He gave us so much information. He didn't sugar coat but gave historical facts and their context—the terrible and the heroic. Afterwards, we went to the museum and felt like expects. Additionally he has a great sense of humor and obvious compassion. I am going to tell all my New York friends to cone down and take this tour! Read more Written March 16, 2024
• Devjer 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles It was a very informative tour Mike, our tour guide was terrific. Very informative. The detail he provided was fantastic. It was well worth the experience Read more Written March 16, 2024
• patfoley 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Highly recommend this tour I can’t recommend this tour enough. The tour guide, Clay, is very knowledgeable and a good story teller. He talks fast because he has so much to tell you. He takes the tour to all the civil rights movement highlights and neighborhoods you need to see and answers all the questions you might have. What a must-do tour. Read more Written March 10, 2024
• 418leisab 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Highly recommend Our guide, Mike, was very well informed and easy to talk to. The content was a bit heavy, as expected, and he covered it in a respectful way and gave time for everyone to process as we went along. Highly recommend this tour to anyone looking to learn more about the history of civil rights. Read more Written March 9, 2024
• G9611SFsusanj 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles In spite of sober topic; fun, interesting and hopeful There were lots of opportunities for questions and discussions in our small group. Our guide Mike grew up in the area and has also done a lot of research on the civil rights movement. He knows descendants of some of the leaders and is extremely knowledgeable on the topic. I highly recommend Red Clay Tours. Read more Written March 4, 2024
• rashundal2024 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Birmingham Civil Right Tour Mr. Mike was our tour guide and he was fantastic! Very knowledgeable about Birmingham past and present! Great mixture of walking and riding. Read more Written February 26, 2024
• Arlene B 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A history lesson An excellent tour. Mike was very knowledgeable. I learned a great deal more about the Civil Rights Movement. A must do while in Birmingham Read more Written February 26, 2024
• John G 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Our first time in Alabama Traveling through Alabama, we decided to get updated on or understanding of the Civil Rights movement. Clay was our first tour, and he was a wealth of knowledge. He made it real and put you right in the middle of the ugly past of the 60s. We were inspired to travel to Selma and Motomery. Take this tour! You will be glad you did!!. Read more Written February 20, 2024
• 758martinf 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles See and learn about key sites in the civil rights struggle Great informative introduction to the history of the City. Entertaining, personable, and knowledgeable guide. Highly recommended. Read more Written February 18, 2024
• kshusband 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A Birmingham History "Must Do" Tour! We are Canadians trying to do better on educating ourselves on the Deep South & it's history regarding civil rights & slavery. Mike, our tour guide did an above & beyond job covering Birmingham's history. We highly recommend this tour company & it's guides..a father & son duo! Mike, thanks for being so knowledge, compassionate, kind and telling us the truth about these very tragic events. R & K , Toronto, Ontario, Canada Read more Written February 17, 2024
• Crystal343 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles this is an absolute must do in Birmingham. Stop scrolling. I promise you will not regret this! We have been on a Deep South crawl through several states. Affectionately calling it our Slavery, Civil War, Civil Rights tour. Trying to better educate ourselves on those issues. Mike did an extraordinary job, covering many of the bits of history that we are reluctant to talk about. He did it with grace, dignity and incredible compassion. I would hazard to guess how many times he has given the tour, but was still deeply touched at some of the most tragic events. Evidencing he truly cares about telling truth. At first it seemed a bit pricey for the tour, but I promise you will not get this kind of info on your own. And you certainly won’t be going to all the places we went. Cannot recommend these guys highly enough!!! Mike, your humanity, your hope, your knowledge moved us further along in our journey. They can’t kill hope! Read more Written February 14, 2024
• 776annl 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent tour to learn Birmingham’s history! Mike contacted us the night before via text to be sure we knew where to meet him and gave us a tip on where to park for free. In the morning he was waiting for us on time as promised. Even though we were the only two on the tour that day, Mike had the same energy and enthusiasm as he would have had for a group of 50! He was VERY knowledgeable about all the sites we visited and was able to give us a comprehensive picture of the civil rights struggles in Birmingham. He was very thoughtful about the events and often asked us questions about we thought and felt as we heard the stories and saw the sights. We came away with so much more knowledge and understanding of the history of Birmingham, the key players, and the importance of this city in the overall struggle for civil rights. We would HIGHLY recommend you take this tour if you visit Birmingham. Read more Written February 6, 2024
• wandasC2380VX 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great tour, highly recommend! We had a wonderful , informative tour with Mike Cornelius! So glad we took this tour and learned so much area history. Highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting or living in the BHM area. Read more Written January 30, 2024
• 870celestel 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Unique, customizable and substantial One of the most memorable tours we’ve had. We talked about it all day and will never forget it. Thank you! Read more Written January 19, 2024

More to explore in Birmingham

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Historical Highlights of Birmingham provided by Red Clay Tours

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🧙‍♀️ get ready for an enchanting experience like never before join us at the birmingham historic touring company as we take you on an unforgettable adventure through the mystical and mysterious side of birmingham. this year, we’re thrilled to introduce our brand-new trolley, and we’re heading to unexplored destinations that promise to make this night truly magical, 🌌 about the witches trolley adventure, 📅 date: october 17th, 🕗 time: 8:00 pm, 📍 meeting point: birmingham historic touring company, 🌙 what to expect, 🔮 prepare to be enchanted as our experienced guides lead you on board our all-new trolley. the adventure kicks off with a unique experience:, 🌟 13 artifacts sampling: begin your evening with a sampling of our 13 artifacts experience, a tantalizing taste of the mystical world that sets the tone for the adventure ahead., 🚌 explore new haunted locations: we’re venturing into eerie locations where paranormal activity has been reported, including the enigmatic witching hour alley., 🏙️ visit historic landmarks: see the city in a whole new light as we journey through its historic landmarks and cobblestone streets, all while comfortably seated in our state-of-the-art trolley., 🔥 secure your spot, our witches trolley adventure is a once-a-year event with limited seating available. to ensure your place on this magical journey, booking on our website is the way to go., 🌆 how to reserve your spot:, 🌟 ticket pricing:, adults: $35, 🎁 special offer: book your tickets before october 5th and receive a complimentary witch-themed souvenir, 🌕 safety first, rest assured, we prioritize your safety and well-being. our trolley adventure is conducted in accordance with the latest health guidelines to ensure a worry-free experience., 🌠 reserve your seat now and embrace the magic, don’t miss your chance to experience the enchantment of birmingham on this unforgettable journey, where you’ll explore new and mysterious destinations aboard our all-new trolley. it’s a night of mystery and magic that you’ll treasure forever, 🌟 reserve your seat today 🌟, 🧙‍♀️ join us on october 17th at 8:00 pm for an adventure like no other seats are limited, so book now on our website and get ready for a spooktacular evening 🌙.

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The Birmingham Historic Touring Company (BHTC) is a boutique tour company devoted to strange, dark, and unusual walking and intimate driving tours of Birmingham, Alabama, and the surrounding area. Our unique tours are meticulously written and researched, one-of-a-kind creations led by expert guides. We are a locally-owned, independently operated business and are consistently one of the Best things to do in Birmingham, Alabama. 

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