Grace's Gap: A Mining History Overlook
Explore Birmingham's mining past and natural beauty at this Red Mountain Park overlook with panoramic city views.
Grace's Gap, nestled within Red Mountain Park in Birmingham, Alabama, offers a unique vantage point blending natural beauty with the region's rich mining history. This scenic overlook, accessible via well-maintained trails, provides panoramic views of the city skyline and surrounding landscape, inviting visitors to reflect on Birmingham's transformation from an industrial powerhouse to a recreational haven.
A brief summary to Grace's Gap at Red Mountain Park
- 2011 Frankfurt Dr, Birmingham, Mason City, Alabama, 35211, US
- +1205-202-6043
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking on potentially uneven trails.
- Bring water, as there is no running water available in the park.
- Check the Red Mountain Park website for seasonal closing times.
Getting There
-
Driving
From downtown Birmingham, take US-31 S/US-280 E. Continue to follow US-280 E. Take the Lakeshore Parkway exit. Turn right onto Frankfurt Drive. The park entrance is at the end of the street. Parking is free.
-
Walking
If you are near the park's Frankfurt Drive entrance, follow the signs towards Grace's Gap. The trails are well-marked but can be uneven in places. Refer to the park map available online or at the trailhead. Portable restrooms are available at several trailheads.
Discover more about Grace's Gap at Red Mountain Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hoist House at Redding Shaft Mine
4.1 km
Explore Birmingham's mining history at the Hoist House, a preserved landmark in Red Mountain Park offering a glimpse into the past.
Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.’s ‘Letter From Birmingham Jail’ Marker
4.2 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.
Five Points South Historical Marker
6.1 km
Discover the vibrant history of Birmingham's Five Points South, a charming neighborhood with stunning architecture, culinary delights, and a lively atmosphere.
Historic 4th Avenue Business District
6.5 km
Discover Birmingham's Historic 4th Avenue Business District: A vibrant center of Black culture, entrepreneurship, and civil rights history.
The Woodward Building
6.7 km
Birmingham's first skyscraper, the Woodward Building, showcases Chicago-style architecture and stands as a landmark of the 'Heaviest Corner on Earth'.
Civil Rights Freedom Riders Marker
6.7 km
Honoring the brave Freedom Riders who challenged segregation in 1961, marking a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement.
Alabama Peanut Co.
6.7 km
Birmingham's oldest peanut shop, roasting and boiling unique flavors since 1907 on historic Morris Avenue. A taste of tradition!
Dread River Distilling Company
6.9 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Dread River Distilling Company in Birmingham, AL, where craft spirits meet culinary excellence in a lively atmosphere.
The Jordan Home (Dr. Mortimer Jordan)
7.4 km
Discover the elegance of Birmingham's past at the Jordan Home, a Neo-Classical landmark in the historic Highland Park neighborhood.
Alabama Sports Hall of Fame
7.6 km
Explore the rich history of sports at Alabama Sports Hall of Fame, where legends come alive through captivating exhibits and memorabilia.
Pratt City Carline Historic District
8.3 km
Explore Birmingham's Pratt City Carline Historic District: A charming journey through time, showcasing well-preserved architecture and rich local heritage.
The Old Mill
8.3 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.
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.
Sloss Mines Hoist House
10.1 km
Explore Birmingham's industrial heritage at the Sloss Mines Hoist House, a window into the region's iron ore mining past on Red Mountain.
HIGHLAND HISTORIC DISTRICT
10.1 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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Red Mountain Park
2.6 km
Explore Birmingham's Red Mountain Park: Hike scenic trails, discover mining history, and enjoy stunning city views in this urban oasis.
Arlington Antebellum Home & Gardens
4.0 km
Discover Birmingham's only antebellum mansion, featuring Greek Revival architecture, period furnishings, and beautiful gardens.
Rickwood Field
4.3 km
Step back in time at Rickwood Field, America's oldest ballpark, and experience the rich history of baseball in Birmingham.
Red Mountain
4.6 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.
Blue Ridge Nature Trail
4.7 km
Discover a serene escape at Blue Ridge Nature Trail in Hoover, AL, offering peaceful walks amidst lush greenery and diverse wildlife.
Vulcan Park and Museum
5.6 km
Discover Birmingham's history and iconic cast-iron statue at Vulcan Park and Museum, offering stunning city views and interactive exhibits.
Vestavia Temple of Sibyl
5.6 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.
Breakout Games - Birmingham
5.7 km
Experience immersive escape room adventures at Breakout Games Birmingham. Perfect for team building, family fun, and unforgettable memories!
Byrd Park
5.8 km
A charming Vestavia Hills park with walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic spots for a relaxing outdoor experience.
Railroad Park Foundation
5.9 km
Discover Birmingham's vibrant heart at Railroad Park: a blend of green space, recreation, and history in a revitalized urban oasis.
Lover's Leap
5.9 km
Discover Lover's Leap in Birmingham: A historic overlook with breathtaking views, rich legends, and a romantic atmosphere on Shades Mountain.
Negro Southern League Museum
6.0 km
Discover the inspiring history of African-American baseball at Birmingham's Negro Southern League Museum, a tribute to the Negro Southern League.
Samuel Ullman Museum
6.3 km
Discover the inspiring life and legacy of Samuel Ullman, the Birmingham humanitarian whose poem 'Youth' touched the world.
Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument
6.4 km
Explore Birmingham's Civil Rights legacy: walk the path of legends, reflect on history, and honor the fight for equality at this national monument.
Birmingham Civil Rights Institute
6.4 km
Explore the pivotal history of the Civil Rights Movement at this powerful Birmingham museum and research center.
Essential places to dine
Gianmarco's Restaurant
3.1 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Gianmarco's Restaurant in Birmingham – where every meal feels like a celebration.
Galley & Garden
6.5 km
Experience exquisite fine dining at Galley & Garden in Birmingham - where Southern hospitality meets culinary excellence.
Chez Lulu
6.9 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Chez Lulu in Birmingham—where culinary art meets Southern charm in an inviting setting.
Bricktop's
6.9 km
Discover Bricktop's: A premier restaurant in Birmingham serving exquisite American cuisine in an elegant atmosphere perfect for any occasion.
Habitat Feed & Social
7.1 km
Discover modern American cuisine at Habitat Feed & Social in Mountain Brook – where local flavors meet creative culinary artistry.
Jack Brown's Beer & Burger Joint Birmingham
7.5 km
Experience unique burgers and an extensive craft beer selection at Jack Brown's Beer & Burger Joint in Birmingham.
OvenBird
7.6 km
Discover OvenBird: A Birmingham culinary gem specializing in live-fire cooking and innovative cocktails in a cozy yet elegant setting.
Blueprint on 3rd
7.9 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine at Blueprint on 3rd in Birmingham - where tradition meets innovation in every dish.
The Rougaroux
8.8 km
Experience authentic Cajun cuisine at The Rougaroux in Birmingham – where every dish tells a story.
SAW’s Soul Kitchen
9.4 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
10.1 km
Experience the rich flavors of Southern barbecue at Martin's Bar-B-Que Joint in Cahaba Heights - where tradition meets taste.
Foodbar
10.3 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Foodbar in Vestavia Hills - where every meal is crafted with passion and flavor.
Mudtown Eat & Drink
10.4 km
Experience the best of Southern cuisine at Mudtown Eat & Drink in Birmingham – where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
J. Alexander's Restaurant
10.4 km
Discover exquisite American cuisine at J. Alexander's Restaurant in Hoover - where tradition meets taste in every bite.
Satterfield's Restaurant
10.5 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
Alabama Goods
5.3 km
Explore the charm of Alabama through unique souvenirs, gift baskets, and handcrafted treasures at Alabama Goods in Homewood.
Soca Clothing
5.3 km
Explore Soca Clothing, a boutique in Homewood, AL, where style meets Southern charm with unique women's fashion and personalized service.
Shea Davis Boutique
5.3 km
Explore Shea Davis Boutique, a stylish women's clothing store in Homewood, Alabama, offering unique fashion and personalized shopping experiences.
Shades Mountain Mercantile
5.5 km
Explore Shades Mountain Mercantile in Hoover, Alabama – a captivating antique store filled with unique vintage finds and timeless treasures.
On-A-Shoestring Trading Co
5.8 km
Explore the charm of On-A-Shoestring Trading Co, Birmingham's premier destination for unique antiques and vintage treasures.
Hanna Antiques Mall
7.0 km
Explore the rich history and unique treasures at Hanna Antiques Mall in Birmingham, Alabama – a collector's paradise.
Stella Blu
7.0 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.
A'Mano
7.1 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts at A'Mano in Mountain Brook, where local artistry meets charming ambiance, perfect for all occasions.
Fun Stuff
7.9 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.
At Your Imagination
8.1 km
Explore At Your Imagination, a whimsical gift shop in Vestavia Hills offering unique treasures that capture the spirit of Alabama.
Cahaba Village
8.6 km
Explore Cahaba Village, a vibrant business center in Mountain Brook, Alabama, filled with unique shops, delicious dining, and community charm.
Mountain High Outfitters
8.6 km
Explore outdoor adventures with quality gear at Mountain High Outfitters, Birmingham's top destination for camping, kayaking, and more.
J&V clothes
9.9 km
Discover the latest trends at J&V Clothes in Birmingham, Alabama – your ultimate fashion destination for stylish clothing and accessories.
Riverchase Galleria
10.0 km
Discover the Riverchase Galleria: a premier shopping mall in Hoover, Alabama, with diverse stores, dining, and entertainment for every tourist.
Windsor
10.0 km
Discover the ultimate fashion haven at Windsor in Hoover, offering an exquisite collection of dresses, accessories, and more for every occasion.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
StirCrazy
2.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at StirCrazy, a lively bar in Birmingham, Alabama, perfect for cocktails and good company.
The Upper Deck
2.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Upper Deck, Birmingham's go-to sports bar for food, drinks, and entertainment in a lively atmosphere.
Oak Hill Bar & Grill
5.3 km
Experience the heart of Southern dining with live music and a warm atmosphere at Oak Hill Bar & Grill in Homewood, Alabama.
Red Lion Lounge
5.6 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and affordable drinks at Red Lion Lounge, the perfect bar for tourists exploring Homewood, Alabama.
Black Market Bar + Grill
6.1 km
Experience the best of Southern cuisine at Black Market Bar + Grill in Birmingham, where delicious food meets a vibrant atmosphere.
Pilcrow Cocktail Cellar
6.8 km
Discover Pilcrow Cocktail Cellar in Birmingham, AL, where expertly crafted cocktails meet a cozy, vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.
Key Circle Commons
6.8 km
Discover the vibrant cocktail culture at Key Circle Commons, a stylish bar in Mountain Brook offering handcrafted drinks and a cozy atmosphere.
Barrister's Tavern
7.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and karaoke fun at Barrister's Tavern, the ultimate bar in Vestavia Hills, Alabama.
House of Found Objects
7.0 km
Experience the eclectic charm of The House of Found Objects, Birmingham's must-visit bar for unique cocktails and vibrant atmosphere.
Carrigan's Public House [21+ Only]
7.3 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.
Mayawell Bar
7.7 km
Experience the energetic vibes and craft cocktails of Mayawell Bar in Birmingham, AL, where local culture meets nightlife excitement.
The Ridge Eat & Drink
8.1 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at The Ridge Eat & Drink in Vestavia Hills, Alabama, where delicious food meets a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Juniper
8.7 km
Discover Juniper, Birmingham's premier cocktail bar, where innovative drinks and a cozy atmosphere create unforgettable moments.
The Marble Ring
9.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite cocktails at The Marble Ring, Birmingham's premier speakeasy cocktail bar.
Twin Peaks
10.1 km
Experience the excitement of live sports and delicious American cuisine at Twin Peaks, Hoover's ultimate sports bar destination.