From state park beaches and stunning botanical gardens to pedal taverns, open-air concerts, and even hot air balloon rides, Birmingham has so much to offer during the summer months. Don’t let the season pass you by! Add these 10 fun activities to your summer bucket list to take full advantage!
Visit Oak Mountain State Park Beach
What says “summer” more than a day at the beach?! Head to Oak Mountain State Park for a fun-filled day of sand and sun. You can easily spend the whole day by the water or explore the park beyond the beach once you’ve had your fix! Pack a picnic lunch, beach essentials, and a good book; you’ll be set for the perfect Alabama summer day.
Enjoy a Hot Air Balloon Ride
Thrill seekers, have you ever wished for a bird’s eye view of the city? Southern Balloon Journeys can make your dreams come true! See your state from the sky as you fly over the towns and farmlands of central Alabama. A hot air balloon adventure is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so mark it off your bucket list before summer comes to a close. For more information, visit flysbj.com.
Visit the Birmingham Botanical Gardens
Birmingham is home to one of the most beautiful public gardens in the South. Before summer ends, make plans to stroll through the 67.5 stunning acres that make up the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. With 30 themed gardens, there is plenty to do and see in this magical space tucked away in Mountain Brook. From educational events to yoga classes and so much more, there is always something exciting to experience at the Gardens!
See a Concert at Avondale Brewing
Avondale Brewing’s outdoor concert venue is unmatched. It’s spacious enough to stay back and away from the crowds or head closer to the stage for an up-close-and-personal experience. They have concerts and events on weekdays and weekends throughout the summer months. See the full schedule here.
Attend one of Birmingham’s Summer Celebrations
The summer season plays host to two of Birmingham’s biggest annual events. The Sidewalk Film Festival is back in Downtown Birmingham this August 21 through August 27. Guests will enjoy films by local and national filmmakers, access to exclusive parties (with a VIP ticket), and more. On August 4, don’t miss out on the Birmingham Museum of Art’s Art on the Rocks summer party. This annual event features live music, a DJ, an interactive mural, and a night of creativity.
Catch a Game
This summer, don’t miss your chance to enjoy an outdoor game. The Birmingham Barons’ regular season ends in early September, so you still have a few months to support our hometown baseball team. Choose from any of their special promotion games, including Friday Night Fireworks, $1 hot dogs on Tuesdays, and everyone’s favorite, Thirsty Thursday. For tickets, visit milb.com. Or, if soccer is more your style, cheer on the Birmingham Legion at one of their home games taking place through early October. For tickets, visit bhmlegion.com.
Go Diving
There’s no need to dig out your passport and book a flight when you can scuba dive right here in Birmingham. Blue Water Park in Pelham boasts 26 acres of scuba diving potential. While the depth of the quarry ranges from 4 to 140 feet, its average depth is 100 feet. Don’t worry if you’re a newbie; there are several training pools and instructors to help you get your feet wet — pun intended. Once you’re certified and ready to dive in, you can explore sunken cars, boats, and even a school bus. This is an experience you won’t forget.
Attend the Alabama Theatre’s Summer Film Series
One of the city’s favorite summer traditions is back! The summer film series at Alabama Theatre is the perfect summer date night. Head Downtown and grab a bite at one of the neighborhood’s many restaurants before heading to the historic Alabama Theatre for classic favorites like Remember The Titans, Sister Act, Saturday Night Fever, and more. See the full schedule here.
Take a Pedal Tour
Take a private tour by bike with up to 14 of your best friends, and see the sights of Avondale, Pepper Place, Lakeview, or downtown Birmingham. The tour lasts two hours and includes stops at your favorite watering holes, including Good People, Carrigan’s, Ghost Train Brewing Company, Hop City, Queen’s Park, and many more. Whether you’ve lived in the Magic City your whole life or you’re a new resident, this tour is a must-try for everyone. Pricing starts at $199. For more information, visit birminghampedaltours.com.
Stroll the Local Farmers’ Markets
Summer produce is at its peak, so plan to visit your local farmers’ market. Meander and enjoy the weather as you meet vendors, shop handmade gifts and goodies, and munch on delicious scratch-made treats. Supporting your local farmers’ market is a great way to stay involved in your city and keep your fridge stocked with nutritious, ethically sourced food for you and your family.
**********
Want to stay in the know on what’s new in Birmingham? Subscribe to StyleBlueprint!
