Birmingham Zoo: A Wild Adventure in the Heart of Alabama
Explore diverse animal habitats, conservation efforts, and family-friendly fun at Alabama's largest zoo, a Birmingham landmark since 1955.
The Birmingham Zoo, home to over 550 animals from 180 species, has been a beloved landmark since 1955. Located on 122 acres at the foot of Red Mountain, the zoo offers diverse exhibits and interactive experiences for all ages.
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.
- Check the zoo's website for daily schedules of animal feedings, shows, and special events.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
- Bring your own water to stay hydrated, especially on hot days. Outside food is not permitted.
- Consider purchasing ride tickets for the Red Diamond Express Train or the Full Moon BBQ Adventure Tower for an enhanced experience.
Getting There
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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 to the zoo. Parking is available in the zoo's parking lot. Parking availability may be limited on weekends and holidays. There is no charge for parking.
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Public Transport
MAX Transit Route 43 serves the Birmingham Zoo. Check the MAX Transit website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and route information. An all-day pass costs $3 for adults. Several other bus routes stop near the Birmingham Zoo. Use the Moovit app for step-by-step directions.
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Ride-Sharing
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Birmingham. Request a ride to the Birmingham Zoo at 2630 Cahaba Rd, Birmingham, AL 35223. The fare from downtown Birmingham typically ranges from $15 to $25, depending on traffic and demand.
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 offering a glimpse into Birmingham's past and a tranquil escape into nature's beauty.
Five Points South Historical Marker
2.1 km
Discover the vibrant history of Birmingham's Five Points South, a charming neighborhood with stunning architecture, culinary delights, and a lively atmosphere.
The Jordan Home (Dr. Mortimer Jordan)
2.2 km
Discover the elegance of Birmingham's past at the Jordan Home, a Neo-Classical landmark in the historic Highland Park neighborhood.
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
Explore Birmingham's Highland Historic District: a blend of architectural styles, lush parks, and a vibrant community in the heart of the Magic City.
Alabama Peanut Co.
3.8 km
Birmingham's oldest peanut shop, roasting and boiling unique flavors since 1907 on historic Morris Avenue. A taste of tradition!
Avondale Park Historic District
3.9 km
Discover historic architecture, vibrant green spaces, and a rich cultural heritage in Birmingham's charming Avondale Park Historic District.
The Woodward Building
3.9 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
4.1 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
4.3 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
4.3 km
Discover Birmingham's Historic 4th Avenue Business District: A vibrant center of Black culture, entrepreneurship, and civil rights history.
Oldest house in Shades Valley/Irondale Furnace Commissary
4.7 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.
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
Visit the epicenter of the non-violent Civil Rights Movement in Birmingham, AL, and explore the historic church of Reverend Fred L. Shuttlesworth.
Southern Museum of Flight
9.3 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
Birmingham Botanical Gardens
0.7 km
Explore diverse flora, themed gardens, and tranquil landscapes at Birmingham's free botanical sanctuary.
Breakout Games - Birmingham
1.0 km
Experience immersive escape room adventures at Breakout Games Birmingham. Perfect for team building, family fun, and unforgettable memories!
Samuel Ullman Museum
1.6 km
Discover the inspiring life and legacy of Samuel Ullman, the Birmingham humanitarian whose poem 'Youth' touched the world.
Vulcan Park and Museum
1.6 km
Discover Birmingham's history and iconic cast-iron statue at Vulcan Park and Museum, offering stunning city views and interactive exhibits.
Jemison Park
2.0 km
Escape to nature in the heart of Mountain Brook at Jemison Park, a scenic greenway with walking trails, wildlife, and a peaceful creek.
Red Mountain
2.3 km
Explore Birmingham's iconic Red Mountain: Hike through history, discover stunning views, and experience the legacy of the Magic City's iron ore heritage.
Locked In: The Birmingham Escape Game
2.9 km
Experience thrilling escape room adventures in Birmingham! Solve puzzles, find clues, and race against the clock at Locked In escape game.
Vestavia Temple of Sibyl
3.6 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.
Negro Southern League Museum
3.7 km
Discover the inspiring history of African-American baseball at Birmingham's Negro Southern League Museum, a tribute to the Negro Southern League.
Railroad Park Foundation
3.8 km
Discover Birmingham's vibrant heart at Railroad Park: a blend of green space, recreation, and history in a revitalized urban oasis.
“Before I die” wall
3.8 km
Reflect on life's aspirations at Birmingham's interactive "Before I die" wall on historic Morris Avenue. A space for community and dreams.
Heaviest Corner On Earth
3.9 km
Discover Birmingham's 'Heaviest Corner on Earth,' a landmark showcasing early 20th-century architectural ambition and industrial might.
Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark
3.9 km
Explore Birmingham's industrial heritage at Sloss Furnaces, a unique National Historic Landmark offering a glimpse into the Magic City's past.
Avondale Park
3.9 km
Discover Birmingham's historic Avondale Park: a vibrant green space with walking trails, an amphitheater, and a rich cultural heritage.
McWane Science Center
4.1 km
Explore interactive science exhibits, an aquarium, and an IMAX Dome Theater at Birmingham's leading science center.
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.
![Carrigan's Public House [21+ Only]](https://evendo-location-media.s3.amazonaws.com/BarImages/7367605d-795a-46b6-ae50-1825e1d76fb0)
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.
