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.
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
- 2630 Cahaba Rd, Birmingham, Redmont Park, Alabama, 35223, US
- +1205-879-0409
- Visit website
- 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].
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.
Discover more about Birmingham Zoo
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Old Mill
2.0 km
Discover the historic charm of The Old Mill in Mountain Brook, a picturesque landmark that embodies the area's rich heritage and scenic beauty, offering a glimpse into a bygone era.
Five Points South Historical Marker
2.1 km
Discover the historical essence of Birmingham at Five Points South Historical Marker, a vibrant symbol of the city's rich past and cultural evolution.
The Jordan Home (Dr. Mortimer Jordan)
2.2 km
Explore the rich history of Birmingham at The Jordan Home, a stunning historical landmark showcasing the life of Dr. Mortimer Jordan.
Dread River Distilling Company
2.8 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Dread River Distilling Company in Birmingham, AL, where craft spirits meet culinary excellence in a lively atmosphere.
HIGHLAND HISTORIC DISTRICT
3.5 km
Discover the charm of the Highland Historic District in Birmingham, Alabama, where history and Southern culture come alive through stunning architecture and vibrant community life.
Alabama Peanut Co.
3.8 km
Discover the flavors of Birmingham at Alabama Peanut Co., where history meets Southern cuisine in a charming setting.
Avondale Park Historic District
3.9 km
Discover historic charm and natural beauty in Birmingham's Avondale Park Historic District, a vibrant community with stunning architecture and a revitalized park at its heart.
The Woodward Building
3.9 km
Discover Birmingham's first skyscraper, a landmark of the 'Heaviest Corner on Earth,' showcasing Chicago-style architecture and rich history.
Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.’s ‘Letter From Birmingham Jail’ Marker
4.1 km
Explore the profound legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at the historic 'Letter from Birmingham Jail' Marker, a cornerstone of America's civil rights movement.
Civil Rights Freedom Riders Marker
4.3 km
Commemorating the courageous Freedom Riders and their pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement at the site of the former Trailways Bus Station.
Historic 4th Avenue Business District
4.3 km
Discover Birmingham's Historic 4th Avenue Business District: A vibrant hub of Black commerce and culture during segregation, now a revitalized landmark in the Civil Rights District.
Oldest house in Shades Valley/Irondale Furnace Commissary
4.7 km
Explore the Irondale Furnace Commissary, the oldest house in Shades Valley, a historical landmark reflecting Alabama's industrial heritage.
Alabama Sports Hall of Fame
5.2 km
Explore the rich history of sports at Alabama Sports Hall of Fame, where legends come alive through captivating exhibits and memorabilia.
The Historic Bethel Baptist Church
7.5 km
Explore The Historic Bethel Baptist Church, a vital landmark in Birmingham's civil rights history and a testament to community resilience.
Birmingham Historic Touring Company
8.7 km
Explore Birmingham's history with guided tours that reveal the city’s rich heritage, iconic landmarks, and captivating stories from the past.
Unmissable attractions to see
Birmingham Botanical Gardens
0.7 km
Discover a world of natural beauty and horticultural wonders at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens, a free and accessible oasis in the heart of Alabama.
Breakout Games - Birmingham
1.0 km
Immersive escape room adventures in Birmingham, AL. Crack codes, solve puzzles, and escape the ordinary with friends and family!
Samuel Ullman Museum
1.6 km
Discover the inspiring life and legacy of Samuel Ullman, the Birmingham poet whose words of 'Youth' resonated with General MacArthur and continue to inspire generations worldwide.
Vulcan Park and Museum
1.6 km
Discover Birmingham's iconic landmark: Vulcan Park and Museum, home to the world's largest cast-iron statue and offering stunning city views.
Jemison Park
2.0 km
Escape to Jemison Park in Mountain Brook: a scenic greenway with walking trails, native plants, and a peaceful natural retreat along Shades Creek.
Red Mountain
2.3 km
Explore Birmingham's Red Mountain: Hike scenic trails, discover mining history, and enjoy panoramic city views in this urban oasis.
Locked In: The Birmingham Escape Game
2.9 km
Experience thrilling escape rooms at Locked In: The Birmingham Escape Game – a top attraction for adventure seekers and puzzle lovers in Birmingham.
Vestavia Temple of Sibyl
3.6 km
Discover a Roman-inspired architectural gem in Alabama, offering stunning views and a glimpse into Vestavia Hills' history.
Negro Southern League Museum
3.7 km
Discover the untold stories of African American baseball at the Negro Southern League Museum in Birmingham, a celebration of history, sports, and culture.
Railroad Park Foundation
3.8 km
Discover Birmingham's vibrant heart at Railroad Park: a revitalized urban oasis blending history, recreation, and community events in a stunning downtown green space.
“Before I die” wall
3.8 km
Reflect on life's aspirations at Birmingham's "Before I Die" wall, a community chalkboard mural on historic Morris Avenue.
Heaviest Corner On Earth
3.9 km
Explore Birmingham's 'Heaviest Corner on Earth,' a historic landmark showcasing early 20th-century skyscrapers and the city's industrial heritage.
Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark
3.9 km
Explore the dramatic history of Birmingham's industrial revolution at Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark, a unique museum and vibrant cultural center.
Avondale Park
3.9 km
Discover Avondale Park in Birmingham: A historic urban oasis with a tranquil lake, gardens, amphitheater, and vibrant community events, perfect for recreation and relaxation.
McWane Science Center
4.1 km
Explore interactive exhibits, an IMAX Dome Theater, and an aquarium at McWane Science Center in Birmingham, AL, where science comes to life for all ages through hands-on learning.
Essential places to dine
Habitat Feed & Social
0.5 km
Discover modern American cuisine at Habitat Feed & Social in Mountain Brook – where local flavors meet creative culinary artistry.
Chez Lulu
1.0 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Chez Lulu in Birmingham—where culinary art meets Southern charm in an inviting setting.
Bricktop's
1.4 km
Discover Bricktop's: A premier restaurant in Birmingham serving exquisite American cuisine in an elegant atmosphere perfect for any occasion.
Galley & Garden
1.9 km
Experience exquisite fine dining at Galley & Garden in Birmingham - where Southern hospitality meets culinary excellence.
Jack Brown's Beer & Burger Joint Birmingham
2.8 km
Experience unique burgers and an extensive craft beer selection at Jack Brown's Beer & Burger Joint in Birmingham.
The Rougaroux
3.2 km
Experience authentic Cajun cuisine at The Rougaroux in Birmingham – where every dish tells a story.
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
3.4 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine at Blueprint on 3rd in Birmingham - where tradition meets innovation in every dish.
Gianmarco's Restaurant
4.1 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Gianmarco's Restaurant in Birmingham – where every meal feels like a celebration.
SAW’s Soul Kitchen
4.2 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
5.2 km
Experience the rich flavors of Southern barbecue at Martin's Bar-B-Que Joint in Cahaba Heights - where tradition meets taste.
Mudtown Eat & Drink
5.2 km
Experience the best of Southern cuisine at Mudtown Eat & Drink in Birmingham – where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Foodbar
5.4 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Foodbar in Vestavia Hills - where every meal is crafted with passion and flavor.
The Filling Station Bham
5.5 km
Discover the heart of Birmingham dining at The Filling Station Bham – where delicious pizzas meet Italian charm in Crestwood.
Satterfield's Restaurant
5.6 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
A'Mano
0.5 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts at A'Mano in Mountain Brook, where local artistry meets charming ambiance, perfect for all occasions.
Stella Blu
0.6 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.
Shea Davis Boutique
1.4 km
Explore Shea Davis Boutique, a stylish women's clothing store in Homewood, Alabama, offering unique fashion and personalized shopping experiences.
Soca Clothing
1.4 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
2.8 km
Explore the rich history and unique treasures at Hanna Antiques Mall in Birmingham, Alabama – a collector's paradise.
Mountain High Outfitters
3.8 km
Explore outdoor adventures with quality gear at Mountain High Outfitters, Birmingham's top destination for camping, kayaking, and more.
Cahaba Village
3.8 km
Explore Cahaba Village, a vibrant business center in Mountain Brook, Alabama, filled with unique shops, delicious dining, and community charm.
Second Hand Rose
5.4 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
5.4 km
Discover unique gifts, women's fashion, and local craftsmanship at Clover + Bee in Birmingham, AL's Heights Village.
Urban Suburban Antiques
5.6 km
Discover unique antiques and art at Urban Suburban Antiques in Birmingham, a treasure trove for vintage lovers and gift seekers.
Sojourns
5.6 km
Explore Sojourns in Birmingham for unique gifts and local crafts that embody the spirit of Alabama's artistry and creativity.
Lizard Thicket
6.2 km
Discover trendy women's fashion at Lizard Thicket in Birmingham, Alabama – a must-visit destination for stylish apparel and accessories.
Swoozie's
6.4 km
Explore Swoozie's in Birmingham, Alabama - your ultimate destination for unique gifts, party supplies, and personalized invitations.
Fun Stuff
6.8 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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Key Circle Commons
0.9 km
Discover the vibrant cocktail culture at Key Circle Commons, a stylish bar in Mountain Brook offering handcrafted drinks and a cozy atmosphere.
Red Lion Lounge
1.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and affordable drinks at Red Lion Lounge, the perfect bar for tourists exploring Homewood, Alabama.
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.
Black Market Bar + Grill
2.2 km
Experience the best of Southern cuisine at Black Market Bar + Grill in Birmingham, where delicious food meets a vibrant atmosphere.
Juniper
3.1 km
Discover Juniper, Birmingham's premier cocktail bar, where innovative drinks and a cozy atmosphere create unforgettable moments.
Mayawell Bar
3.3 km
Experience the energetic vibes and craft cocktails of Mayawell Bar in Birmingham, AL, where local culture meets nightlife excitement.
Carrigan's Public House [21+ Only]
3.8 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.
Pilcrow Cocktail Cellar
3.9 km
Discover Pilcrow Cocktail Cellar in Birmingham, AL, where expertly crafted cocktails meet a cozy, vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.
The Marble Ring
3.9 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite cocktails at The Marble Ring, Birmingham's premier speakeasy cocktail bar.
House of Found Objects
3.9 km
Experience the eclectic charm of The House of Found Objects, Birmingham's must-visit bar for unique cocktails and vibrant atmosphere.
The Upper Deck
4.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Upper Deck, Birmingham's go-to sports bar for food, drinks, and entertainment in a lively atmosphere.
StirCrazy
4.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at StirCrazy, a lively bar in Birmingham, Alabama, perfect for cocktails and good company.
The Ridge Eat & Drink
7.0 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at The Ridge Eat & Drink in Vestavia Hills, Alabama, where delicious food meets a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Black Market
7.2 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Black Market Grill in Birmingham, Alabama, where delicious food meets a lively atmosphere for every occasion.
On Tap Sports Cafe Liberty Park
7.9 km
Experience the thrill of sports with delicious food and drink at On Tap Sports Cafe in Vestavia Hills, Alabama.