Red Mountain: Birmingham's Iron Legacy
Explore Birmingham's Red Mountain: Hike scenic trails, discover mining history, and enjoy outdoor adventures in this urban oasis.
Red Mountain, a prominent ridge in Birmingham, Alabama, is known for its rich iron ore deposits that fueled the city's industrial revolution. Today, Red Mountain Park offers over 1,500 acres of trails, historical sites, and outdoor activities, blending natural beauty with the area's mining history [3, 5].
A brief summary to Red Mountain
- Birmingham, Five Points South, Alabama, US
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for hiking the trails, as the terrain can be uneven in places [13].
- Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike for an extended period [13].
- Check the Red Mountain Park website for seasonal closing times and special events [7].
- Visit the historic Redding Hoist House and explore the entrances to former iron mines to learn about the area's mining history [7, 21].
Getting There
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Driving
From downtown Birmingham, take US-31 S/Red Mountain Expy. Continue on Red Mountain Expy and take the Frankfurt Drive exit. Continue on Frankfurt Dr. to the park entrance. Parking is free and available directly across the street from the park entrance at 283 Lyon Lane [18]. Alternatively, take I-65 to the Lakeshore Parkway exit (Exit 255) and head west. Turn right onto Frankfurt Drive to reach the Frankfurt Drive entrance or continue further and turn right on Sydney Drive/Wenonah Oxmoor Road, then right on Venice Road to reach the Venice Road entrance [3].
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From downtown Birmingham, a taxi or ride-share (Uber/Lyft) to Red Mountain Park will take approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic [18]. Expect to pay around $15-$25 for the ride [18]. Specify either the Frankfurt Drive entrance (2011 Frankfurt Drive, Birmingham, AL 35211) or the Venice Road entrance (2019 Venice Road, Birmingham, AL 35211) as your destination [18].
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Public Transport
While there is no direct public transportation to Red Mountain Park, several bus lines stop near Red Mountain Expressway [20]. From there, you can take a taxi or ride-share to the park entrance. Bus lines that stop near Red Mountain Expressway include 20, 22, 23, and 40 [20]. A single ride on MAX Transit costs $1.25 [23].
Discover more about Red Mountain
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Five Points South Historical Marker
1.7 km
Discover the vibrant history of Birmingham's Five Points South, a charming neighborhood with stunning architecture, culinary delights, and a lively atmosphere.
Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.’s ‘Letter From Birmingham Jail’ Marker
2.0 km
A marker commemorating Martin Luther King Jr.'s powerful 'Letter From Birmingham Jail,' a cornerstone of the Civil Rights Movement, located in front of the former Birmingham City Jail.
Dread River Distilling Company
2.7 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Dread River Distilling Company in Birmingham, AL, where craft spirits meet culinary excellence in a lively atmosphere.
The Jordan Home (Dr. Mortimer Jordan)
2.9 km
Discover the elegance of Birmingham's past at the Jordan Home, a Neo-Classical landmark in the historic Highland Park neighborhood.
The Woodward Building
3.1 km
Birmingham's first skyscraper, the Woodward Building, showcases Chicago-style architecture and stands as a landmark of the 'Heaviest Corner on Earth'.
Alabama Peanut Co.
3.1 km
Birmingham's oldest peanut shop, roasting and boiling unique flavors since 1907 on historic Morris Avenue. A taste of tradition!
Historic 4th Avenue Business District
3.3 km
Discover Birmingham's Historic 4th Avenue Business District: A vibrant center of Black culture, entrepreneurship, and civil rights history.
Civil Rights Freedom Riders Marker
3.4 km
Honoring the brave Freedom Riders who challenged segregation in 1961, marking a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement.
The Old Mill
4.2 km
Discover the historic charm of The Old Mill in Mountain Brook, a picturesque landmark offering a glimpse into Birmingham's past and a tranquil escape into nature's beauty.
Alabama Sports Hall of Fame
4.4 km
Explore the rich history of sports at Alabama Sports Hall of Fame, where legends come alive through captivating exhibits and memorabilia.
Avondale Park Historic District
4.9 km
Discover historic architecture, vibrant green spaces, and a rich cultural heritage in Birmingham's charming Avondale Park Historic District.
HIGHLAND HISTORIC DISTRICT
5.6 km
Explore Birmingham's Highland Historic District: a blend of architectural styles, lush parks, and a vibrant community in the heart of the Magic City.
Oldest house in Shades Valley/Irondale Furnace Commissary
6.7 km
Explore Birmingham's oldest home, a preserved 19th-century commissary offering a glimpse into the lives of early settlers and the region's industrial heritage.
The Historic Bethel Baptist Church
7.3 km
Visit the epicenter of the non-violent Civil Rights Movement in Birmingham, AL, and explore the historic church of Reverend Fred L. Shuttlesworth.
Hoist House at Redding Shaft Mine
8.6 km
Explore Birmingham's mining history at the Hoist House, a preserved landmark in Red Mountain Park offering a glimpse into the past.
Unmissable attractions to see
Vulcan Park and Museum
1.0 km
Discover Birmingham's history and iconic cast-iron statue at Vulcan Park and Museum, offering stunning city views and interactive exhibits.
Breakout Games - Birmingham
1.5 km
Experience immersive escape room adventures at Breakout Games Birmingham. Perfect for team building, family fun, and unforgettable memories!
Samuel Ullman Museum
1.8 km
Discover the inspiring life and legacy of Samuel Ullman, the Birmingham humanitarian whose poem 'Youth' touched the world.
Birmingham Zoo
2.3 km
Discover wildlife from around the world at the Birmingham Zoo, Alabama's premier zoological destination. Open Wednesday - Sunday!
Negro Southern League Museum
2.5 km
Discover the inspiring history of African-American baseball at Birmingham's Negro Southern League Museum, a tribute to the Negro Southern League.
Railroad Park Foundation
2.6 km
Discover Birmingham's vibrant heart at Railroad Park: a blend of green space, recreation, and history in a revitalized urban oasis.
Birmingham Botanical Gardens
2.8 km
Explore diverse flora, themed gardens, and tranquil landscapes at Birmingham's free botanical sanctuary.
Heaviest Corner On Earth
3.1 km
Discover Birmingham's 'Heaviest Corner on Earth,' a landmark showcasing early 20th-century architectural ambition and industrial might.
“Before I die” wall
3.1 km
Reflect on life's aspirations at Birmingham's interactive "Before I die" wall on historic Morris Avenue. A space for community and dreams.
Locked In: The Birmingham Escape Game
3.1 km
Experience thrilling escape room adventures in Birmingham! Solve puzzles, find clues, and race against the clock at Locked In escape game.
McWane Science Center
3.2 km
Explore interactive science exhibits, an aquarium, and an IMAX Dome Theater at Birmingham's leading science center.
Eddie Kendrick Memorial Park
3.3 km
A Birmingham park honoring Eddie Kendricks of The Temptations, featuring sculptures, music, and a celebration of his Motown legacy.
Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument
3.4 km
Explore Birmingham's Civil Rights legacy: walk the path of legends, reflect on history, and honor the fight for equality at this national monument.
Kelly Ingram Park
3.4 km
Explore Kelly Ingram Park in Birmingham, AL: a historic landmark memorializing the Civil Rights Movement with powerful sculptures and exhibits.
Birmingham Civil Rights Institute
3.4 km
Explore the pivotal history of the Civil Rights Movement at this powerful Birmingham museum and research center.
Essential places to dine
Galley & Garden
2.0 km
Experience exquisite fine dining at Galley & Garden in Birmingham - where Southern hospitality meets culinary excellence.
Chez Lulu
2.3 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Chez Lulu in Birmingham—where culinary art meets Southern charm in an inviting setting.
Habitat Feed & Social
2.8 km
Discover modern American cuisine at Habitat Feed & Social in Mountain Brook – where local flavors meet creative culinary artistry.
Gianmarco's Restaurant
2.8 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Gianmarco's Restaurant in Birmingham – where every meal feels like a celebration.
Jack Brown's Beer & Burger Joint Birmingham
3.1 km
Experience unique burgers and an extensive craft beer selection at Jack Brown's Beer & Burger Joint in Birmingham.
Bricktop's
3.2 km
Discover Bricktop's: A premier restaurant in Birmingham serving exquisite American cuisine in an elegant atmosphere perfect for any occasion.
OvenBird
3.4 km
Discover OvenBird: A Birmingham culinary gem specializing in live-fire cooking and innovative cocktails in a cozy yet elegant setting.
Blueprint on 3rd
3.7 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine at Blueprint on 3rd in Birmingham - where tradition meets innovation in every dish.
The Rougaroux
4.3 km
Experience authentic Cajun cuisine at The Rougaroux in Birmingham – where every dish tells a story.
SAW’s Soul Kitchen
5.0 km
Discover authentic Southern barbecue at SAW's Soul Kitchen in Birmingham – where flavor meets hospitality in every bite.
Martin's Bar-B-Que Joint
7.0 km
Experience the rich flavors of Southern barbecue at Martin's Bar-B-Que Joint in Cahaba Heights - where tradition meets taste.
The Filling Station Bham
7.1 km
Discover the heart of Birmingham dining at The Filling Station Bham – where delicious pizzas meet Italian charm in Crestwood.
Mudtown Eat & Drink
7.1 km
Experience the best of Southern cuisine at Mudtown Eat & Drink in Birmingham – where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Foodbar
7.2 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Foodbar in Vestavia Hills - where every meal is crafted with passion and flavor.
Satterfield's Restaurant
7.5 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Satterfield's Restaurant in Birmingham—where Southern hospitality meets fine dining elegance.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Shea Davis Boutique
1.3 km
Explore Shea Davis Boutique, a stylish women's clothing store in Homewood, Alabama, offering unique fashion and personalized shopping experiences.
Soca Clothing
1.3 km
Explore Soca Clothing, a boutique in Homewood, AL, where style meets Southern charm with unique women's fashion and personalized service.
Alabama Goods
1.5 km
Explore the charm of Alabama through unique souvenirs, gift baskets, and handcrafted treasures at Alabama Goods in Homewood.
Hanna Antiques Mall
2.7 km
Explore the rich history and unique treasures at Hanna Antiques Mall in Birmingham, Alabama – a collector's paradise.
Stella Blu
2.8 km
Experience the unique charm of Stella Blu Boutique in Mountain Brook, Alabama, where local fashion and style come together in a delightful shopping atmosphere.
A'Mano
2.8 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts at A'Mano in Mountain Brook, where local artistry meets charming ambiance, perfect for all occasions.
Mountain High Outfitters
5.5 km
Explore outdoor adventures with quality gear at Mountain High Outfitters, Birmingham's top destination for camping, kayaking, and more.
Cahaba Village
5.5 km
Explore Cahaba Village, a vibrant business center in Mountain Brook, Alabama, filled with unique shops, delicious dining, and community charm.
Urban Suburban Antiques
7.1 km
Discover unique antiques and art at Urban Suburban Antiques in Birmingham, a treasure trove for vintage lovers and gift seekers.
Sojourns
7.1 km
Explore Sojourns in Birmingham for unique gifts and local crafts that embody the spirit of Alabama's artistry and creativity.
Second Hand Rose
7.2 km
Discover unique fashion treasures at Second Hand Rose, your go-to consignment shop in Cahaba Heights, Vestavia Hills, for stylish and sustainable finds.
Clover + Bee
7.2 km
Discover unique gifts, women's fashion, and local craftsmanship at Clover + Bee in Birmingham, AL's Heights Village.
Fun Stuff
7.3 km
Explore Fun Stuff Gift Shop in Vestavia Hills, Alabama, for unique gifts and quirky treasures that capture the essence of local charm and creativity.
At Your Imagination
7.3 km
Explore At Your Imagination, a whimsical gift shop in Vestavia Hills offering unique treasures that capture the spirit of Alabama.
Lizard Thicket
7.9 km
Discover trendy women's fashion at Lizard Thicket in Birmingham, Alabama – a must-visit destination for stylish apparel and accessories.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Oak Hill Bar & Grill
1.4 km
Experience the heart of Southern dining with live music and a warm atmosphere at Oak Hill Bar & Grill in Homewood, Alabama.
Red Lion Lounge
1.6 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and affordable drinks at Red Lion Lounge, the perfect bar for tourists exploring Homewood, Alabama.
Black Market Bar + Grill
1.8 km
Experience the best of Southern cuisine at Black Market Bar + Grill in Birmingham, where delicious food meets a vibrant atmosphere.
The Upper Deck
2.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Upper Deck, Birmingham's go-to sports bar for food, drinks, and entertainment in a lively atmosphere.
Key Circle Commons
2.3 km
Discover the vibrant cocktail culture at Key Circle Commons, a stylish bar in Mountain Brook offering handcrafted drinks and a cozy atmosphere.
StirCrazy
3.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at StirCrazy, a lively bar in Birmingham, Alabama, perfect for cocktails and good company.
Pilcrow Cocktail Cellar
3.1 km
Discover Pilcrow Cocktail Cellar in Birmingham, AL, where expertly crafted cocktails meet a cozy, vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.
House of Found Objects
3.3 km
Experience the eclectic charm of The House of Found Objects, Birmingham's must-visit bar for unique cocktails and vibrant atmosphere.
Carrigan's Public House [21+ Only]
3.4 km
Discover Carrigan's Public House, a premier gastropub in Birmingham, offering a unique blend of gourmet dining and lively bar experiences for adults only.
![Carrigan's Public House [21+ Only]](https://evendo-location-media.s3.amazonaws.com/BarImages/7367605d-795a-46b6-ae50-1825e1d76fb0)
Mayawell Bar
3.5 km
Experience the energetic vibes and craft cocktails of Mayawell Bar in Birmingham, AL, where local culture meets nightlife excitement.
Juniper
4.2 km
Discover Juniper, Birmingham's premier cocktail bar, where innovative drinks and a cozy atmosphere create unforgettable moments.
The Marble Ring
4.9 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite cocktails at The Marble Ring, Birmingham's premier speakeasy cocktail bar.
The Ridge Eat & Drink
7.5 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at The Ridge Eat & Drink in Vestavia Hills, Alabama, where delicious food meets a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Barrister's Tavern
8.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and karaoke fun at Barrister's Tavern, the ultimate bar in Vestavia Hills, Alabama.
Black Market
8.8 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Black Market Grill in Birmingham, Alabama, where delicious food meets a lively atmosphere for every occasion.
