East Lake Park: Birmingham's Historic Lakeside Retreat
Discover Birmingham's historic East Lake Park: a scenic destination for recreation, birdwatching, and lakeside relaxation in a vibrant community.
East Lake Park, a 100-acre green space in Birmingham's North East Lake neighborhood, offers a tranquil escape with a rich history. Originally developed in 1886 as a private attraction featuring a 45-acre man-made lake, it has evolved into one of Alabama's largest municipal recreational facilities, providing a variety of activities and natural beauty [3, 4].
A brief summary to East Lake Park
- 8101 4th Ave N, Birmingham, North Eastlake, Alabama, 35206, US
- +1205-254-2391
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
- Thursday 8 am-5 pm
- Friday 8 am-5 pm
- Saturday 8 am-5 pm
- Sunday 8 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Bring your fishing gear and try your luck in East Lake, known for its catfish, bass, and bluegill [9, 11].
- Pack a picnic and enjoy a meal at one of the park's scenic picnic areas [9, 16].
- Keep an eye out for local events, such as farmers' markets and community gatherings, that often take place in and around the park [8, 10, 14].
- Visit early in the morning for a peaceful walk or run around the lake before it gets crowded [18].
Getting There
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Public Transport
From downtown Birmingham, you can take the #28 bus towards Eastwood Plaza. The bus stops along 1st Ave N near East Lake Park. Check the Birmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA) website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and fare information. A one-way fare is typically around $1.25 [1].
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Driving
If driving from downtown Birmingham, take I-59 North to the Oporto Madrid Boulevard exit. Head south, then turn onto 4th Ave N. Continue along 4th Ave N until you reach East Lake Park. There are several parking areas around the park, and parking is free [13, 18].
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Walking
If you are in the East Lake neighborhood, East Lake Park is easily accessible on foot. The park is located between 1st Avenue North and 3rd Court North, and between 80th and 84th Street North [3]. Simply walk towards the lake; you can't miss it!
Discover more about East Lake Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Oldest house in Shades Valley/Irondale Furnace Commissary
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Avondale Park Historic District
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The Historic Bethel Baptist Church
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HIGHLAND HISTORIC DISTRICT
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The Jordan Home (Dr. Mortimer Jordan)
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Alabama Sports Hall of Fame
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Dread River Distilling Company
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Alabama Peanut Co.
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The Woodward Building
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Turkey Creek Nature Preserve
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Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park
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Birmingham Museum of Art
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“Before I die” wall
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Heaviest Corner On Earth
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McWane Science Center
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Birmingham Botanical Gardens
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Eddie Kendrick Memorial Park
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Liberty Park
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Essential places to dine
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SAW’s Soul Kitchen
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Bricktop's
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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