Historic Cahaba Pumping Station: Birmingham's Waterworks Legacy
Explore Birmingham's waterworks history at this museum, a testament to the city's early engineering and vital role in community growth. Open select days.
Explore the Historic Cahaba Pumping Station in Birmingham, a museum and conference center that showcases the city's early engineering and crucial role in providing a reliable water supply. Completed in 1890, the station pumped water from the Cahaba River to Shades Mountain, fueling Birmingham's growth.
A brief summary to Historic Cahaba Pumping Station
- 4012 Sicard Hollow Rd, Birmingham, Overton, Alabama, 35243, US
- +1205-969-1069
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-6 pm
Local tips
- Check the Birmingham Water Works website for updated hours and possible event closures before visiting [4].
- Consider visiting during a weekday for a quieter, less crowded experience [4].
- Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Cahaba Heights for dining and shopping [4].
Getting There
-
Driving
From US Highway 280, take the exit for Sicard Hollow Road [2, 4]. Head north on Sicard Hollow Road for approximately 1.5 miles [2, 4]. The Historic Cahaba Pumping Station will be on your left [2, 4]. Parking is available on-site and is free [2, 4, 9].
-
Public Transport
While direct public transportation to the Historic Cahaba Pumping Station is limited, you can take the MAX bus 280 from downtown Birmingham to the Summit Shopping Center [2, 4]. From there, a taxi or ride-sharing service (Uber/Lyft) is needed to cover the remaining distance to the station on Sicard Hollow Road [2, 4]. The bus fare is $2 [2, 4]. A taxi/ride-share from The Summit to the Pumping Station will cost approximately $15-$20 [4].
Discover more about Historic Cahaba Pumping Station
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Old Mill
5.2 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.
HIGHLAND HISTORIC DISTRICT
6.3 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 Jordan Home (Dr. Mortimer Jordan)
8.7 km
Discover the elegance of Birmingham's past at the Jordan Home, a Neo-Classical landmark in the historic Highland Park neighborhood.
Five Points South Historical Marker
9.2 km
Discover the vibrant history of Birmingham's Five Points South, a charming neighborhood with stunning architecture, culinary delights, and a lively atmosphere.
Avondale Park Historic District
9.3 km
Discover historic architecture, vibrant green spaces, and a rich cultural heritage in Birmingham's charming Avondale Park Historic District.
Dread River Distilling Company
9.7 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Dread River Distilling Company in Birmingham, AL, where craft spirits meet culinary excellence in a lively atmosphere.
Alabama Peanut Co.
10.7 km
Birmingham's oldest peanut shop, roasting and boiling unique flavors since 1907 on historic Morris Avenue. A taste of tradition!
The Woodward Building
10.8 km
Birmingham's first skyscraper, the Woodward Building, showcases Chicago-style architecture and stands as a landmark of the 'Heaviest Corner on Earth'.
Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.’s ‘Letter From Birmingham Jail’ Marker
11.0 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.
Civil Rights Freedom Riders Marker
11.2 km
Honoring the brave Freedom Riders who challenged segregation in 1961, marking a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement.
Historic 4th Avenue Business District
11.3 km
Discover Birmingham's Historic 4th Avenue Business District: A vibrant center of Black culture, entrepreneurship, and civil rights history.
Alabama Sports Hall of Fame
12.0 km
Explore the rich history of sports at Alabama Sports Hall of Fame, where legends come alive through captivating exhibits and memorabilia.
Arlington Antebellum Home & Gardens
12.6 km
Explore the enchanting Arlington Antebellum Home & Gardens, a historical gem in Birmingham, AL, showcasing Southern elegance and rich cultural heritage.
Southern Museum of Flight
12.6 km
Explore nearly 100 historic aircraft and discover the captivating story of flight at Birmingham's Southern Museum of Flight, home to the Alabama Aviation Hall of Fame.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cahaba River Unidentified Park/Creek
2.2 km
Explore scenic trails, paddle the Cahaba River, and discover Alabama's natural beauty at this expansive park near Birmingham.
Cahaba River Walk Park
3.2 km
Escape to Cahaba River Walk Park: scenic trails, river access, dog park, and recreational activities for a refreshing outdoor experience.
Liberty Park
3.5 km
Discover Liberty Park in Vestavia Hills: A scenic blend of nature and history with walking trails, lakes, and the iconic Statue of Liberty replica, perfect for family outings and community events.
Hoover Inverness Nature Park & Trails
3.7 km
Discover scenic trails, disc golf, and a peaceful escape at Hoover Inverness Nature Park & Trails, a 77-acre natural oasis in Birmingham.
Alabama Veterans Memorial Park
4.9 km
A place of honor and reflection, the Alabama Veterans Memorial Park pays tribute to the service and sacrifice of Alabama's veterans.
Jemison Park
5.1 km
Escape to nature in the heart of Mountain Brook at Jemison Park, a scenic greenway with walking trails, wildlife, and a peaceful creek.
Byrd Park
6.4 km
A charming Vestavia Hills park with walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic spots for a relaxing outdoor experience.
Vestavia Temple of Sibyl
6.5 km
Discover a Roman-inspired architectural gem in Vestavia Hills, Alabama, offering stunning views and a glimpse into local history and the area's unique charm.
Veterans Park
6.8 km
Honoring veterans with recreational trails, playgrounds, and a serene memorial in Meadowbrook, Alabama.
Birmingham Botanical Gardens
7.0 km
Explore diverse flora, themed gardens, and tranquil landscapes at Birmingham's free botanical sanctuary.
Birmingham Zoo
7.0 km
Discover wildlife from around the world at the Birmingham Zoo, Alabama's premier zoological destination. Open Wednesday - Sunday!
McCallum Park
7.1 km
Escape to McCallum Park in Vestavia Hills: scenic trails, playground, and a tranquil creek for a refreshing outdoor experience and community connection.
Breakout Games - Birmingham
7.5 km
Experience immersive escape room adventures at Breakout Games Birmingham. Perfect for team building, family fun, and unforgettable memories!
Samuel Ullman Museum
8.6 km
Discover the inspiring life and legacy of Samuel Ullman, the Birmingham humanitarian whose poem 'Youth' touched the world.
Vulcan Park and Museum
8.6 km
Discover Birmingham's history and iconic cast-iron statue at Vulcan Park and Museum, offering stunning city views and interactive exhibits.
Essential places to dine
Miss Myra's Pit Bar B Q
1.0 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Miss Myra's Pit Bar B Q in Birmingham - where every bite tells a story of flavor and tradition.
The Alabama Biscuit Co., Cahaba Heights
1.0 km
Savor homemade biscuits and authentic Southern breakfast at The Alabama Biscuit Co., a must-visit spot in Birmingham's Cahaba Heights.
Taco Mama - The Summit
1.1 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Taco Mama - The Summit in Birmingham with delicious tacos, burritos, and vibrant atmosphere.
Seasons 52
1.2 km
Discover the essence of fresh dining at Seasons 52 in Birmingham – where seasonal ingredients meet culinary excellence.
Culinary Dropout
1.4 km
Discover Culinary Dropout: Birmingham's go-to destination for innovative American cuisine and lively social dining.
Satterfield's Restaurant
1.6 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Satterfield's Restaurant in Birmingham—where Southern hospitality meets fine dining elegance.
Perry's Steakhouse & Grille
1.7 km
Experience culinary excellence at Perry's Steakhouse & Grille in Birmingham – where exquisite steaks meet exceptional service.
Foodbar
1.8 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Foodbar in Vestavia Hills - where every meal is crafted with passion and flavor.
Mudtown Eat & Drink
1.9 km
Experience the best of Southern cuisine at Mudtown Eat & Drink in Birmingham – where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Martin's Bar-B-Que Joint
2.0 km
Experience the rich flavors of Southern barbecue at Martin's Bar-B-Que Joint in Cahaba Heights - where tradition meets taste.
Saigon Noodle House
2.7 km
Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Saigon Noodle House in Birmingham—where flavorful dishes meet warm hospitality.
Capella Pizzeria
3.7 km
Discover Birmingham's hidden gem for pizza lovers at Capella Pizzeria—delicious flavors await in every slice!
Bellini's Ristorante & Bar
5.8 km
Discover the taste of Italy at Bellini's Ristorante & Bar—where every meal is a celebration of flavor and tradition.
Bricktop's
5.8 km
Discover Bricktop's: A premier restaurant in Birmingham serving exquisite American cuisine in an elegant atmosphere perfect for any occasion.
Habitat Feed & Social
6.7 km
Discover modern American cuisine at Habitat Feed & Social in Mountain Brook – where local flavors meet creative culinary artistry.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Swoozie's
1.0 km
Explore Swoozie's in Birmingham, Alabama - your ultimate destination for unique gifts, party supplies, and personalized invitations.
Lizard Thicket
1.6 km
Discover trendy women's fashion at Lizard Thicket in Birmingham, Alabama – a must-visit destination for stylish apparel and accessories.
Clover + Bee
1.8 km
Discover unique gifts, women's fashion, and local craftsmanship at Clover + Bee in Birmingham, AL's Heights Village.
Second Hand Rose
1.9 km
Discover unique fashion treasures at Second Hand Rose, your go-to consignment shop in Cahaba Heights, Vestavia Hills, for stylish and sustainable finds.
Santos Coffee - Acton Rd.
2.9 km
Discover Santos Coffee - Acton Rd.: A Cozy Coffee Shop in Vestavia Hills Serving Exceptional Brews and Fresh Pastries.
Deep South Outfitters
2.9 km
Explore Deep South Outfitters in Birmingham, Alabama, your ultimate destination for fishing gear, expert advice, and a passion for angling.
Cigars and More 280
3.3 km
Explore the ultimate cigar experience at Cigars and More 280, where premium cigars meet a vibrant lounge and social atmosphere in Birmingham, Alabama.
Cahaba Village
3.6 km
Explore Cahaba Village, a vibrant business center in Mountain Brook, Alabama, filled with unique shops, delicious dining, and community charm.
Mountain High Outfitters
3.6 km
Explore outdoor adventures with quality gear at Mountain High Outfitters, Birmingham's top destination for camping, kayaking, and more.
Gameday In Style Boutique
4.3 km
Explore Gameday In Style Boutique in Birmingham, AL for trendy game day apparel and unique fashion pieces that showcase your style and team spirit.
Kohl's
4.4 km
Explore Kohl's Birmingham for unbeatable prices on fashion and home essentials in a friendly shopping environment.
Far Beyond The Blue
5.6 km
Explore Far Beyond The Blue, a charming Birmingham gift shop offering unique local crafts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of Alabama.
At Your Imagination
5.8 km
Explore At Your Imagination, a whimsical gift shop in Vestavia Hills offering unique treasures that capture the spirit of Alabama.
Fun Stuff
6.0 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.
Stella Blu
6.4 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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Black Market
1.9 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Black Market Grill in Birmingham, Alabama, where delicious food meets a lively atmosphere for every occasion.
Courtyard Oyster Bar
2.9 km
Experience the taste of the sea at Courtyard Oyster Bar, Birmingham's top destination for fresh oysters and delicious seafood.
Courtyard 280
3.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Courtyard 280, Birmingham's lively bar known for great drinks, live music, and a friendly vibe.
On Tap Sports Cafe Liberty Park
3.1 km
Experience the thrill of sports with delicious food and drink at On Tap Sports Cafe in Vestavia Hills, Alabama.
On Tap Sports Cafe - Inverness/280
4.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious menu at On Tap Sports Cafe, a top sports bar in Birmingham, Alabama.
The Ridge Eat & Drink
6.1 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at The Ridge Eat & Drink in Vestavia Hills, Alabama, where delicious food meets a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Grey Bar
6.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Grey Bar in Birmingham, AL, where delicious grill specialties and live music come together for an unforgettable night out.
The Anvil Pub and Grill
6.8 km
Experience the best of Birmingham dining at The Anvil Pub and Grill, where delicious food meets a friendly atmosphere.
The Humidor Room cigar & Scotch Bar
7.1 km
Discover the perfect blend of elegance and relaxation at The Humidor Room, Birmingham's premier cigar and Scotch bar, where every visit is a refined experience.
Red Lion Lounge
7.4 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and affordable drinks at Red Lion Lounge, the perfect bar for tourists exploring Homewood, Alabama.
Oak Hill Bar & Grill
7.6 km
Experience the heart of Southern dining with live music and a warm atmosphere at Oak Hill Bar & Grill in Homewood, Alabama.
Key Circle Commons
7.7 km
Discover the vibrant cocktail culture at Key Circle Commons, a stylish bar in Mountain Brook offering handcrafted drinks and a cozy atmosphere.
Juniper
8.8 km
Discover Juniper, Birmingham's premier cocktail bar, where innovative drinks and a cozy atmosphere create unforgettable moments.
Black Market Bar + Grill
9.2 km
Experience the best of Southern cuisine at Black Market Bar + Grill in Birmingham, where delicious food meets a vibrant atmosphere.
The Red Shamrock pub
9.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Red Shamrock, Birmingham's favorite sports bar and Irish pub, featuring live music and delicious pub food.
