Explore the Industrial Heritage at Sloss Furnaces
Discover the rich industrial history of Birmingham at Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark, a fascinating museum and historical site.
Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark, located in Birmingham, Alabama, stands as a testament to the city's rich industrial heritage. Once the largest producer of pig iron in the country, this remarkable site is a fascinating blend of history, architecture, and culture. Visitors can wander through the sprawling grounds, where the remnants of towering blast furnaces and other industrial structures evoke the era of heavy manufacturing that shaped the region. The site has been carefully preserved, allowing guests to step back in time and envision the bustling activity that once filled the air with the sounds of machinery and labor. The furnaces themselves are not only impressive in size but are also complemented by various exhibits that detail the history of iron and steel production in the area. Guided tours provide invaluable insights into the operations that took place here, the lives of the workers, and the economic impact on Birmingham and beyond. The surrounding area often hosts cultural events, art installations, and educational programs, making Sloss a vibrant hub for learning and community engagement. For those interested in photography, the site offers stunning opportunities to capture the industrial landscape, particularly during sunset when the furnaces are bathed in warm golden light. Whether you're a history buff, a photographer, or simply seeking a unique experience, Sloss Furnaces invites you to explore and appreciate a pivotal chapter in Alabama's industrial story.
Local tips
- Check the schedule for guided tours to gain deeper insights into the site's history.
- Visit during the late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking on uneven terrain.
- Explore the visitor center for additional exhibits and information about current events.
A brief summary to Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark
- 20 32nd St N, Birmingham, Central City, Alabama, 35222, US
- +1205-254-2025
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, start by heading south on Cahaba Valley Road toward Highway 119. Merge onto Highway 119 and continue for about 5 miles. Take a left onto Highway 280, then merge onto I-459 N toward Birmingham. Continue for approximately 10 miles and take exit 33B onto I-20 W/I-65 N toward Birmingham. Keep left to merge onto I-65 N and take exit 259B for 20th St N. Continue on 20th St N for about 1.5 miles, then turn right onto 32nd St N. Sloss Furnaces will be on your right at 20 32nd St N, Birmingham, AL 35222. Parking is available on-site.
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Public Transportation - Bus
For those using public transportation, you can take the MAX Transit bus system. Begin by locating the nearest bus stop on Cahaba Valley Road. Check the MAX Transit schedule for Bus Route 5, which goes towards Birmingham. Board the bus and ride to the 1st Ave N & 21st St N stop. From there, transfer to Bus Route 1 toward 32nd St N. Disembark at the 32nd St N stop. Sloss Furnaces is a short walk from the bus stop; head south on 32nd St N for about 0.3 miles. The total cost for a one-way bus fare is approximately $1.50.
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Rideshare
If you prefer a rideshare option, download apps like Uber or Lyft. Enter 'Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark' or the address '20 32nd St N, Birmingham, AL 35222' as your destination. The cost for a ride will vary based on demand, but you can expect it to be around $15-25 from central Cahaba Valley.
Attractions Nearby to Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark
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Locked In: The Birmingham Escape Game
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“Before I die” wall
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Avondale Park
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McWane Science Center
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Birmingham Museum of Art
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Eddie Kendrick Memorial Park
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Kelly Ingram Park
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Negro Southern League Museum
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Birmingham Civil Rights Institute
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Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument
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Railroad Park Foundation
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Samuel Ullman Museum
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Vulcan Park and Museum
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Birmingham Botanical Gardens
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Birmingham Zoo
Landmarks nearby to Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark
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Heaviest Corner On Earth
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Historic 4th Avenue Business District
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Oldest house in Shades Valley/Irondale Furnace Commissary
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Turkey Creek Nature Preserve
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Tannehill Grist Mill
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Rickwood Caverns State Park
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Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park
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The American Village
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Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum
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Butler-Harris Rainwater Museum
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Kymulga Grist Mill Park
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Majestic Caverns
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Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge
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Blount County Memorial Museum
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Easley Covered Bridge