As the state’s most populous city, Birmingham offers a wide array of getaways, from vast lakeside trails to awe-inspiring lookouts along urban gorges. Get around the small town mystique mixed with dozens of urban neighborhoods by making sure you’ve got a lift to see it all, whether it’s a private ride perfect for seeing the leaves change at Oak Mountain State Park, or an executive limousine that’ll get you in and out of The Harbert Center 4th Avenue traffic without ever having to park. Only home to one train station on 19th Street and 5 miles distance between downtown and Shuttlesworth International, finding a ride to your flight should be the most important factor - choose between a diverse string of hotels along Messer Airport Highway to stay close, enjoying quaint stays like Ramada and Holiday Inn, both of which offer airport shuttles and on-site restaurants.
Get to know the beauty of the area inside and out by knowing what’s ahead, looking forward to famous Civil War-era landmarks as well as relaxing nature preserves. Start the morning early with a trip to Oak Mountain State Park, home to miles of cliffside trails, scenic drives along Double Oak Lake, and a huge animal sanctuary. Those looking to get in touch with nature but not get overwhelmed should try their luck at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens instead, taking in thousands of floral species and over a dozen themed gardens scattered across pristine ponds, estates, and bridges. Look out at the city when sunset comes by making time to visit the city’s world-famous Vulcan, an iconic statue renowned for its lookout atop Red Mountain as well as on-site park & museum. Top the night off with some serious grub courtesy of Al’s Deli & Grill before heading to your hotel, enjoying locally beloved comfort food served from 4 AM to Midnight.