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BEST RATED BIRMINGHAM, AL PLACES TO SEE

3 Best Places To See in Birmingham, AL

Expert-recommended Top 3 Places To Visit in Birmingham, Alabama. All of our places to see actually face a rigorous 50-Point Inspection, which includes customer reviews, history, complaints, ratings, satisfaction, trust, cost and general excellence. You deserve only the best!

Birmingham Zoo - Birmingham, AL Places To See - Destination Image
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11+ YEARS IN TBR
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BIRMINGHAM ZOO

(5.0 Score)
2630 Cahaba Road,
Birmingham, AL 35223 Directions

Since 1955

Specialty:

✓Birthday Parties ✓Outdoor and Daily Activities ✓Cafes ✓College and Nightlife Programs ✓Schools and Groups ✓Educational ✓Teacher’s Lounge ✓Facility Rental ✓Kids and Families ✓Accessibility for Students ✓Adult Opportunities ✓Red Diamond Express Train ✓Virtual Reality Movies ✓Lorikeet Feedings ✓Zoo Snooze ✓Scout Programs ✓Zoo To You Outreach Programs ✓Digital Field Trips

" Birmingham Zoo aims to provide animal care workers, both volunteers and professionals, with training, professional development, and conservation resources. The zoo is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including tigers, rhinos, giraffes, sea lions, orangutans, jaguars, Asian elephants, and endangered species from six continents, making it Alabama's top attraction. The zoo is committed to promoting concern for the natural environment and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) as a private, non-profit organization. Every Tuesday, admission is half-price, and the zoo’s mission is to educate and inspire as animal caregivers, educators, and conservationists. Infants can also enter for free.

2026 Highlights: Birmingham Zoo offers Unlimited Daytime Visits Throughout the Year for Members. "

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Price:

ADMISSION:
Adult: $24.00
Child (Ages 2–12): $19.00
Senior (65+): $20.00
MEMBERSHIP LEVEL:
Individual: $75
Companion: $110
Family: $175
Military Family: $125
Foster Family: $50
Student (College) Individual: $40
Additional Adult: $50
Additional Child: $35

Discount:

25% Off on Regular Admission Tickets for Your Non-Member Guests(up to six)

10% Off on Stroller and Wheelchair Rental

10% Off on Gift Shop Merchandise and Food at Nourish 205 and Wild Burger Restaurants

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Contact:

(205) 879-0409

Wed-Sun: 9am - 5pm
Mon & Tue: Closed

TBR® Inspection Report:

Birmingham Botanical Gardens - Birmingham, AL Places To See - Destination Image
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10+ YEARS IN TBR
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BIRMINGHAM BOTANICAL GARDENS

(4.9 Score)
2612 Lane Park Road,
Birmingham, AL 35223 Directions

Since 1963

Specialty:

✓Plant Conservation ✓Family and Kids ✓Centennial Tree Project ✓Health and Wellness ✓Gardening and Horticulture ✓Art and Crafts ✓Field Trips ✓Native Plant Studies ✓Weekend Programs ✓Nature and Outdoor Skills ✓Photography ✓Adult Classes ✓Youth and Family Programs ✓Summer Camps ✓Storytime ✓Guided Field Trips ✓Gift Shop ✓Café ✓Art Gallery ✓Garden Tours ✓Facility Rentals

" Birmingham Botanical Gardens contains the most extensive public horticulture library in the U.S. The gardens feature conservatories, a wildflower greenhouse, two rose gardens, the Southern Living Garden, and Japanese gardens with a traditional tea house. In 2016, USA Today rated Birmingham Botanical Gardens as one of America’s top three free attractions. This 67-acre urban oasis offers stunning blooms, specialty gardens, and year-round opportunities to cultivate your green thumb. The peaceful setting is home to two dozen unique garden spaces, original outdoor fountains and sculptures, miles of walking paths, and endless opportunities to learn and explore. Birmingham Botanical Gardens boasts over 12,000 different plants in its living collections. It is a mission-driven membership organization dedicated to protecting, nurturing, and sharing the wonders of the Gardens.

2026 Highlights: Birmingham Botanical Gardens offers a Membership Card and a Choice of Exclusive New Member Gift, plus a Complimentary Member Gift Plant at the Fall Plant Sale. "

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License #000-555-746

Price:

MEMBERSHIP:
Friend: $50
Dual: $55
Family: $70
Contributor: $150
Supporter: $250
Ambassador: $500
Benefactor Circle: $1,000+
Boxwood: $1,000–$2,499
Dogwood: $2,500–$4,999
Azalea: $5,000–$9,999
Camellia: $10,000–$14,999
Dahlia: $15,000–$19,999
Orchid: $20,000+

Discount:

10% Off on Lunch at The Gardens Café for Members

$35 Off on Jefferson County Library Card for Out-Of-County Residents for Members

10% Off on Regularly Priced Purchases at Partner Nurseries and Garden Centers

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Contact:

(205) 414-3950

Mon-Sun: 7am - 7pm

TBR® Inspection Report:

McWane Science Center - Birmingham, AL Places To See - Destination Image
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Best Places To See in Birmingham AL - McWane Science Center video
9+ YEARS IN TBR
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MCWANE SCIENCE CENTER

(4.9 Score)
200 19th Street North,
Birmingham, AL 35203 Directions

Since 1998

Specialty:

✓Groups ✓Cool Stuff Store ✓Area Attractions/Hotels ✓World Of Water Aquariums ✓Calendar Of Events ✓Science Quest ✓Sea Monsters ✓Rushton Theater ✓Alabama Dinosaurs ✓Birthday Parties ✓Overnight Adventures ✓Naturescope ✓Featured/traveling Exhibit and Art ✓Interactive Science Exhibits ✓Special Exhibits ✓Science Programs ✓Field Trips ✓Mcwane On The Move Outreach Programs ✓Homeschool Programs ✓School-break Camps

“ McWane Science Center means experience because every time you go there, you discover something different. It is a science museum and research center located in the heart of Birmingham, Alabama. This center is sparkling with awe and excitement about the planet through hands-on science encounters. McWane Science Center is the Alabama Collection. Engage children and youth in advanced inquiry-based learning opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The center holds unique minerals, fossils, and Native American artifacts, including the fourth most extensive collection of mosaics globally, Appalachiosaurus and Alabama Fossil City. The Itty Bitty Magic City show features a scaling platform, a water play area, a children's play area, and a miniature replica of the town's typical structures for younger children. McWane Science Center affords free admission for kids under two. ”

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License #000-068-763

Price:

ADMISSION:
Adults (13–64): $20.95
Kids (2–12): $16.95
Seniors (65+): $19.95
COMBO TICKETS:
Adults (13–64): $25.95
Kids (2–12): $20.95
Seniors (65+): $24.95
IMAX DOME TICKETS:
Adults (13–64): $9.95
Kids (2–12): $8.95
Seniors (65+): $8.95
Group Admission (15+ People):
Adventure Hall Only - Adults: $14
Adventure Hall Only - Kids (2–12): $10
Adventure Hall Only - Seniors (65+): $13
IMAX Only - Adults: $10
IMAX Only - Kids (2–12): $9
IMAX Only - Seniors (65+): $9
Combo Ticket - Adults: $19
Combo Ticket - Kids (2–12): $15
Combo Ticket - Seniors (65+): $18

Discount:

20% Off on Sweet Gear in Their Gift Shop, the Cool Stuff Store for Members

10% Off on Hip, Healthy Food in The Bean Sprouts Café for Members

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Contact:

(205) 714-8300 (205) 714-8414

Wed-Fri: 9am - 5pm
Sat: 10am - 5pm
Sun: 12pm - 5pm
Mon & Tue: Closed

TBR® Inspection Report:

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BIRMINGHAM ZOO REVIEWS

We went on a weekday in the morning and had no troubles finding parking, no line/wait for tickets and entry. There is a large selection of animals ranging from flamingos to giraffes, monkeys, and even a roaring lion near the entrance. My daughter especially enjoyed looking for and observing the baby giraffe. This is a clean, well maintained, and very family friendly zoo! There’s even a train that goes around the zoo that’s available to hop on all day for a small additional price. Unfortunately, the carousel was still closed for maintenance. But, there is also a nice splash pad available for those hotter days. I recommend checking out the schedule of daily activities online before you go. You can plan to get there when there’s a specific animal event. For example, we planned to be there in time for the AM feeding for a giraffe. This was an additional cost at $4 but, worth it! As a note, the gift shop had a great selection of stuffies, clothing, and toys. I did find the items to be a bit pricey though. Zoo is also only open Wednesday - Sunday. If you live locally, definitely look into buying the annual membership as it’ll pay for itself after a few visits.

My wife and I decided to have our wedding at the Birmingham Zoo and we could not have asked for a better venue. The setting was beautiful, the staff was always there to help, the food was delicious, and all of our guests had a blast. Not to mention that the price of everything was well below what we budgeted for. I highly recommend anyone looking to get married to check out this venue.

My daughter and I thoroughly enjoyed our visit during the Christmas holiday season. We were especially delighted by the Glow Wild: An Animal Lantern Celebration, which featured stunning seasonal lighting and beautifully crafted animal lanterns. The event was truly a magical experience that added to the festive atmosphere.

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BIRMINGHAM BOTANICAL GARDENS REVIEWS

Nestled just outside Birmingham’s bustling city center, the Botanical Gardens feels like a hidden gem waiting to be explored. With its lush, meticulously curated landscapes, every corner of the garden offers something new — from vibrant flowerbeds to serene, shaded paths that wind through towering trees. The glasshouses are like stepping into another world, with tropical plants and rare species that make you feel miles away from the city. The peaceful ambiance makes it an ideal spot for reflection or a quiet afternoon with a book. Whether you're a plant enthusiast or simply in search of tranquility, this garden offers an unforgettable escape. A true sanctuary for nature lovers.

We were blown away at how nice these gardens were and couldn't believe it was free. We were there in early January so not a whole lot in bloom, but we still enjoyed our walk. Wear comfy shoes and clothing as it's definitely a lot of walking. We want to go back in Spring or Summer.

Nice place to visit and walk around. Very Serene and comfortable atmosphere. However, best to visit during growing season. Winter time is not optimal because there is not much to see. Admission is free. Recommended, in season.

MCWANE SCIENCE CENTER REVIEWS

So happy McWane is back open after the pandemic! This place is amazing- everyone has their favorite exhibit. I love the IMAX theater and films. The kids love the Waterworld and Dinosaurs. Fun around every corner and on-site covered parking. A great day of family fun!.

One of the BEST things to do with kids in this town!! Absolutely worth every penny. I highly recommend buying the combo ticket with a Imax dome theater ticket. It was spectacular!!.

Great science center. Lots of interactive and hands-on stations. 3 different floors. There's also a domed Imax theater.

TBR® Inspection Score Report

BIRMINGHAM ZOO Total Inspection Points: 119/120
Contact Info: 9
Acknowledgments: 10
Business Hours: 10
Business Images: 10
Complete Info: 10
Experience: 10
Legitimate Ratings: 10
Location Proximity: 10
Pricing: 10
Social Media: 10
Video: 10
Website Source: 10

TBR® Inspection Score Report

BIRMINGHAM BOTANICAL GARDENS Total Inspection Points: 118/120
Contact Info: 9
Legitimate Ratings: 9
Acknowledgments: 10
Business Hours: 10
Business Images: 10
Complete Info: 10
Exact Services: 10
Experience: 10
Location Proximity: 10
Pricing: 10
Social Media: 10
Video: 10

TBR® Inspection Score Report

MCWANE SCIENCE CENTER Total Inspection Points: 117/120
Acknowledgments: 9
Contact Info: 9
Legitimate Ratings: 9
Business Hours: 10
Business Images: 10
Complete Info: 10
Exact Services: 10
Experience: 10
Location Proximity: 10
Social Media: 10
Video: 10
Website Source: 10