Alabama’s largest city, Birmingham offers plenty of attractions and activities. It is the business hub and industrial center in the southern US attracting many employers from across the world. It is a diverse city with culture, traditions and heritage, and eclectic mix of interesting activities. Whether you enjoy history, culture, fine arts, nature, outdoors or motorsports, the city has something for all.
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History of Birmingham
Birmingham was incorporated and founded in 1871 at the intersection of two railroad lines. The city flourished through the early 1900s and became the leading industrial center of the southern United States. The city was known for its iron and steel production. The 1930s “The Great Depression” hit the city which resulted in the decline of the city. After the World War II, the city started to grow rapidly. Later, the iron and steel production industries were supplanted by the engineering and medical workforce. The 1960s Civil Rights era had an impact on the city. Martin Luther King Jr.'s in 1963 wrote the "Letter from the Birmingham Jail" that became one of the statements that reflected the nonviolent movement for racial justice in the US.
Presently, Birmingham, “the Magic City” is a mix of manufacturing and service-oriented sectors. It is one of the fast growing communities in the south.
Important Locations in Birmingham
Birmingham, “The Magic City”, is a diverse city with multitude of important locations to see.From Civil Rights era and industrial age to fine arts, natural beauty and outdoors, Birmingham is a city that offers plenty of beautiful locations. Whatever your interest is, you are sure to find something that will capture your attention. Explore the following important locations in Birmingham-
Arlington Antebellum Home and Gardens: Arlington Antebellum Home and Gardens is a 1840s home that represents Southern heritage. Check out the collections of household items and learn about Birmingham’s history, the civil rights struggle, heritage, and more at this historic home.
Birmingham Botanical Gardens: Birmingham Botanical Gardens features more than 12,000 different types of flora arranged in unique gardens, a children’s garden, miles of walking paths, Bonsai garden, bird collection, and over 30 outdoor sculptures. Take a walk through the lovely horticultural beauty!
Birmingham Civil Rights Institute: Learn about the Civil Rights era history through displays and exhibitions at the
Birmingham Civil Rights Institute. It chronicles the victories and struggles of the Civil Rights Movement, and memorializes the brave men and women of the Civil Rights Movement.
Birmingham Museum of Art: Birmingham Museum of Art features several paintings, sculptures, drawing, prints and decorative art pieces from all around the globe. It has an extensive collection of fine arts, including the Kress Collection of Renaissance, Asian artwork and Baroque European work of art.
Birmingham Railroad Park:
Birmingham Railroad Park is a popular spot for outdoor activities, cultural events and concerts. It offers plenty of green space, Skate Park, Birmingham history wall with timeline, playgrounds, outdoor gym, walking track, ponds, and a cafe.
Southern Museum of Flight:
Southern Museum of Flight features the southern aviation history. It houses an impressive collection of aircrafts, photos, original engines, models and aviation exhibits.
Vulcan Statue and Museum: Enjoy the spectacular views of Birmingham from the
Vulcan Statue which is one of the highest points in the city. The museum features the history of Birmingham and the iron industry in the area.
Birmingham Zoo: Birmingham Zoo features more than 950 animals of about 230 species. It has Alligator Swamp, zoo train ride, and several species of wildlife. It features elephants, alligators, lions, kangaroos, macaws, rhinos, gorillas and more.
McWane Science Center: Science is fun at
McWane Science Center. The center is a hands-on museum that features interactive exhibits, including dinosaur fossils, space center, and an IMAX Dome Theatre.
To know in detail about the important locations in Birmingham, Alabama, click here.
People and Culture of Birmingham
Birmingham is an entertainment and cultural capital of AL. It is a diverse city with several art galleries and museums that reflect the city’s culture and history. The people of Birmingham are friendly and warm. There is a southern charm in their demeanor. Birmingham is an affordable place to live as the cost of living here is low.
Some of the famous personalities who have their roots in Birmingham, Alabama are: Carl Lewis, Harper Lee, Rosa Parks, Hank Williams, Tim Cook, Angela Davis, Channing Tatum, Courteney Cox, and many more.
Time Zone and Phone Codes of Birmingham
Time Zone
Birmingham, AL follows the Central Time Zone
Time Zone Abbrv: CST abbreviated for Central Standard Time; CDT abbreviated for Central Daylight Time
UTC – GMT Offset: Birmingham is GMT/UTC - 6hours during Standard Time, and GMT/UTC - 5hours during Daylight Saving Time
Daylight Saving Time Usage: Birmingham uses Daylight Saving Time.
Phone Code
Area Code: 205
Best Time to Visit Birmingham
Spring and fall are the best times to visit the Magic City. The city experience mild weather during these seasons, perfect for exploring the outdoors as well as indoors. Birmingham is home to multitude of cultural and historical festivals and events showcasing regional heritage, music, food and much more. Here are some of the popular festivals and events held in Birmingham-
