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Birmingham Zoo: A Wild Adventure in the Heart of Alabama

Discover wildlife from around the globe at the Birmingham Zoo, Alabama's premier zoological park committed to conservation and education.

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The Birmingham Zoo, home to over 550 animals from 180 species, offers an engaging and educational experience for visitors of all ages [2, 3]. From endangered species to interactive exhibits, the zoo is committed to conservation and providing a fun-filled day [2, 14].

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 [15].
  • Visit on a weekday for a more relaxed experience [15].
  • Check the zoo's website for daily events, feeding times, and special exhibits.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
  • Bring water and snacks, or take advantage of the zoo's dining options.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Birmingham Zoo is accessible via MAX Transit bus routes [16, 21]. Several bus lines, including the 280, 31, and 90, stop near the zoo [16]. From the bus stop at Hwy 280 And Brook Manor Dr (Mtn Brook Pl), it's approximately a 20-minute walk to the zoo entrance [16]. A single ride fare on MAX Transit is $1.25 [16].

  • Ride Share

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

  • Driving

    The Birmingham Zoo is located at 2630 Cahaba Rd, Birmingham, AL 35223. From downtown Birmingham, take US-31 S/US-280 E. Follow US-280 E to Cahaba Rd in Mountain Brook. Take the Cahaba Rd exit from US-280 E. Continue on Cahaba Rd. The zoo will be on your right. Parking is available in the zoo's parking lot [19]. Parking is free.

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Discover more about Birmingham Zoo

The Birmingham Zoo, nestled in Redmont Park, has been a beloved attraction since its opening in 1955 [2, 3]. Starting as a small menagerie, it has grown into a 122-acre zoological park that houses over 550 animals representing 180 species from six continents [2, 3, 5]. As the only AZA-accredited zoo in Alabama, it participates in Species Survival Plans, demonstrating its commitment to conservation [2]. The zoo is divided into several themed areas, each offering a unique glimpse into different ecosystems [15]. 'Trails of Africa' showcases African bush elephants, giraffes, zebras, and more [15]. The 'Junior League of Birmingham-Hugh Kaul Children's Zoo' introduces young visitors to Alabama's native wildlife, with interactive exhibits like the Alabama Barn and Black Bear Trail [2, 15]. Other notable species include Komodo dragons, black bears, flamingos, and a variety of primates [2, 5, 8]. Beyond its diverse animal collection, the Birmingham Zoo is dedicated to conservation efforts [10, 14]. The zoo actively participates in local and global conservation projects, working with organizations like the Alabama Department of Conservation to protect endangered species and their habitats [14]. Through its 'Passion into Conservation Action (PiCA)' program, the zoo funds employee-led conservation research projects [17]. The zoo also promotes sustainability through its 'Green Team Initiative,' encouraging responsible resource management among staff and visitors [10]. The Birmingham Zoo provides a memorable experience for the whole family. Whether observing majestic animals, learning about conservation, or enjoying interactive exhibits, a visit to the zoo is both entertaining and educational [14].

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