Kimberly AlabamaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Kimberly, Alabama.
1. Sims Cave Park
NATURAL UNDERGROUND WONDER
Sims Cave Park is a highly-rated natural attraction in Kimberly featuring impressive cave formations. Visitors can explore the unique underground ecosystem and marvel at the geological wonders. The park combines natural beauty with educational opportunities about cave systems.
2. Rickwood Caverns State Park
ANCIENT UNDERWATER FORMATION
Rickwood Caverns State Park offers visitors a chance to explore magnificent cave formations that were once part of an ancient underground ocean. The park features a gift shop, picnic areas, gemstone mining, camping facilities, and a playground for families. Visitors can also enjoy the Fossil Mountain Hiking Trail, named for the leaf and shell imprints visible throughout the park.
3. Bankhead National Forest
WILDERNESS AND RECREATION
Bankhead National Forest encompasses over 180,000 acres of protected wilderness in northwest Alabama. The forest features stunning waterfalls, hiking trails, and diverse wildlife habitats for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy camping, fishing, and exploring the natural beauty of this extensive woodland preserve.
4. Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park
CIVIL WAR ERA HISTORY
Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park preserves the ruins of the Tannehill Ironworks, a significant Civil War-era industrial site. The 1,500-acre park includes a museum, restored pioneer cabins, and working craftsmen demonstrating traditional skills. Visitors can explore hiking trails, camp, or attend one of the many festivals held throughout the year.
5. Birmingham Civil Rights Institute
SOCIAL JUSTICE HISTORY
The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute documents the struggles and triumphs of the American Civil Rights Movement. Interactive exhibits and powerful artifacts tell the story of Birmingham's crucial role in the fight for equality. The institute serves as both a memorial and an educational center promoting understanding and reconciliation.
6. Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark
INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION MONUMENT
Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark preserves a former iron-producing blast furnace that operated from 1882 to 1971. The site now functions as an industrial museum showcasing Birmingham's pivotal role in the Industrial Revolution. Visitors can explore the massive pipes, towers, and machinery that highlight America's manufacturing heritage.
7. Ruffner Mountain Nature Center
URBAN WILDLIFE PRESERVE
Ruffner Mountain Nature Center is a 1,038-acre urban nature preserve featuring diverse ecosystems and wildlife. The center offers educational programs, hiking trails, and opportunities to learn about the area's mining history. Visitors can explore forests, wetlands, and meadows while enjoying panoramic views of Birmingham.
8. Turkey Creek Nature Preserve
PROTECTED WATERSHED AREA
Turkey Creek Nature Preserve protects a vital watershed area home to some of Alabama's rarest and most endangered species. The preserve features swimming areas, hiking trails, and picnic facilities for visitors to enjoy. Conservation efforts focus on protecting the Vermilion Darter, a critically endangered fish found only in this watershed.
9. Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge
AQUATIC BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge protects one of America's most biologically diverse waterways. The refuge is famous for its spectacular display of Cahaba lilies, rare aquatic flowering plants that bloom in late spring. Visitors can enjoy fishing, canoeing, wildlife photography, and hiking along this pristine river ecosystem.
10. Birmingham Barons Baseball
MINOR LEAGUE SPORTS ENTERTAINMENT
The Birmingham Barons offer exciting minor league baseball entertainment at Regions Field in downtown Birmingham. As the Double-A affiliate of the Chicago White Sox, the team has a rich history dating back to 1885. Games feature family-friendly activities, affordable concessions, and the opportunity to see future major league stars in action.
11. Coldwater Mountain Bike Trail
PREMIER CYCLING DESTINATION
Coldwater Mountain Bike Trail system offers over 35 miles of purpose-built trails for mountain biking enthusiasts of all skill levels. The International Mountain Bicycling Association has designated this Forever Wild tract as a ride center due to its exceptional quality and diversity. Riders can experience flowing singletracks, technical rock gardens, and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
12. Downtown Birmingham Dining District
URBAN CULINARY EXPERIENCE
Downtown Birmingham's dining district showcases the city's evolution into a Southern culinary destination. Award-winning restaurants offer everything from traditional Southern cuisine to innovative fusion concepts. Visitors can explore a diverse range of dining experiences within walking distance of major city attractions.
13. The Summit
UPSCALE SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
The Summit is Birmingham's premier open-air lifestyle center featuring over 100 upscale retailers and restaurants. The shopping destination combines national brands with local boutiques in an architecturally pleasing environment. Visitors can enjoy dining, entertainment, and seasonal events in this pedestrian-friendly retail complex.
14. Fossil Mountain Hiking Trail
PREHISTORIC NATURAL HISTORY
Fossil Mountain Hiking Trail offers nature enthusiasts a glimpse into Alabama's prehistoric past. The trail is named for the abundant leaf and shell imprints visible throughout the route, evidence of the area's ancient underwater history. Hikers can enjoy the scenic beauty while learning about the geological forces that shaped the region.
15. Birmingham Botanical Gardens
URBAN PLANT PARADISE
Birmingham Botanical Gardens encompasses 67 acres featuring over 30 thematic gardens from formal rose gardens to Japanese landscapes. The facility serves as both a recreational park and an educational center with over 12,000 different plants on display. Visitors can enjoy seasonal blooms, walking paths, and various educational programs year-round.