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Birmingham Zoo: A Wild Adventure in the Heart of Alabama

Explore wildlife from around the world at the Birmingham Zoo, a conservation leader and family-friendly destination in Alabama.

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The Birmingham Zoo, home to over 550 animals from around the globe, offers an exciting and educational experience for visitors of all ages. From its humble beginnings in a firehouse to its current sprawling 122-acre site, the zoo has grown into a leading conservation and recreation destination in Alabama [2, 3].

A brief summary to Birmingham Zoo

  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive early, especially during the summer, to avoid crowds and make the most of your visit [4].
  • Check the zoo's daily schedule for show and feeding times to enhance your experience [4].
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking [17].
  • Consider purchasing tickets online in advance to save time and guarantee entry [4].
  • Visit during the week for a more relaxed atmosphere [4].
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The Birmingham Zoo is located at 2630 Cahaba Rd, Birmingham, AL 35223 [25]. From downtown Birmingham, take US-31 S/US-280 E. Follow US-280 E to Cahaba Rd. Take the Cahaba Road exit. Follow Cahaba Rd to the zoo. Parking is available in the zoo's parking lot [17]. Parking fees are not explicitly stated, checking with the zoo is recommended [10].

  • Public Transport

    Several bus routes serve the Birmingham Zoo [13, 22]. Check the MAX Transit website for the most up-to-date schedules and route information [22]. From the Birmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA) Central Station, you can take Route 43 to the Zoo/Botanical Gardens [22]. A single ride fare is $1.25 [22].

  • Ride Share

    Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft provide a convenient way to reach the Birmingham Zoo. From downtown Birmingham, a ride typically costs between $15 and $25, depending on traffic and demand. Confirm the fare before you book your ride.

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Discover more about Birmingham Zoo

The Birmingham Zoo, nestled at the foot of Red Mountain in Birmingham, Alabama, has been a beloved attraction since its opening in 1955 [2, 3]. Starting as a small menagerie, the zoo has evolved into a 122-acre home for over 550 animals representing 180 species from six continents [3]. The zoo is divided into distinct areas, each offering a unique glimpse into different ecosystems. The Main Zoo features diverse exhibits like the Flamingo Lagoon, Predator Building, and Reptile Building [4]. The Junior League of Birmingham-Hugh Kaul Children's Zoo offers younger visitors a chance to explore Alabama's native wildlife, with areas like the Alabama Barn and the Black Bear Trail [3, 4]. Trails of Africa showcases African elephants, giraffes, zebras, and more in a dynamic and immersive setting [2]. Beyond its exhibits, the Birmingham Zoo is committed to conservation efforts, participating in AZA Species Survival Plans and supporting local and global conservation projects [2, 9, 11, 15]. The zoo also provides various educational programs, including wildlife shows and interactive experiences, to connect visitors with the natural world [4, 9]. With its diverse animal collection, beautiful landscapes, and dedication to conservation, the Birmingham Zoo offers a memorable and enriching experience for all who visit [11].

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