5 of Birmingham’s Most Charming Walks
Love a good walk and yap? Grab a friend and check out these five charming walkable areas around Birmingham. They're perfect for catching up while enjoying the cooler temps. Image: iStock
If you’re a walker like me, you know that the backdrop can make all the difference. Depending on the location, I can walk for miles without noticing the exercise I’m getting — especially if I have a friend to chat with along the way. These are five of my favorite Birmingham walking trails, each offering some of the most charming surroundings in our city.
The Hills of English Village and Highland Park
After living in English Village for several years, I am convinced it offers some of the best walking in Birmingham. If you’re not ready for hills, beware. But the views of the city are worth it! Start with an iced coffee at Continental Bakery and head uphill from there.
You’ll need to follow Cahaba Road until you reach the roundabout, and then you can head up Stratford Road South. This street is full of beautiful homes and wide sidewalks, plus a sweeping view of downtown to enjoy as you stroll.
SB Tip: You can head down the big hill after the roundabout to admire Highland Park and end up at one of the beautiful parks at the very bottom of Red Mountain near the Virginia Samford Theatre.
Samford University Campus
Birmingham is fortunate to have several colleges and universities that call it home, bringing great concerts, sporting events, and picturesque areas to our city. I love Samford University for its classic architecture and shady trails.
Ignore the big gate at the entrance — the campus is open for the community to enjoy. Once inside, it’s easy to see why Samford has won several awards for its beautiful green spaces, buildings, and walkable campus. The next time you’re looking for a new place to get more steps in, add it to your list!
SB Tip: Watch where you park! You can find more details on the best ways to get on campus here.
Birmingham Botanical Gardens
Most Birminghamians know that the Botanical Gardens offer a lovely setting for walking and enjoying nature, but you might not know all of the different areas to explore. There are more than 20 garden areas, and each has different plants, flowers, and features to enjoy. My personal favorites are the Jemison Lily Garden and the Dunn Formal Rose Garden.
The gardens offer both paved and gravel paths throughout the property, which allows you to wander with ease. I love to listen to quiet music while I take a meditative walk through this beautiful Birmingham escape.
SB Tip: Walk to Lane Parke after your stroll for lunch or a snack! I suggest a lunch pack from Ousler’s Sandwiches, a Birmingham must-try.
Forest Park Shops and Neighborhood
The Forest Park area is one of my favorites in Birmingham. I like to park in the shopping area, head down Clairmont Avenue, and explore the streets that branch off toward the mountain. The homes were built in the early 1900s, and each has its own distinct personality.
I spend most of my walk swiveling my head around as I admire the houses and the friendly feel of the neighborhood — Triangle Park is usually full of families playing, and I always pass other walkers with dogs, too.
SB Tip: End your walk at Shoppe and pick up a few new flowers to brighten your front stoop while you’re in the area!
Downtown Edgewood and Surrounding Areas
Starting at the Edgewood Taco Mama and heading down Broadway Street, I love this walk for its mostly flat two-mile stretch. The best part is that it is impossible to get lost — you just stay on Broadway until it ends and then turn around. You pass iconic Birmingham spots like Gianmarco’s and get to enjoy the charming homes of Edgewood as you go.
SB Tip: You can grab a snack from Otey’s Tavern or a glass of wine from Alfred’s after your stroll with a friend if you continue until Broadway dead ends — the perfect way to wrap up your time!
No matter where you go, I hope you take the time to admire our city’s neighborhoods and invite a friend along. Happy walking!
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Erin Slay Wilson
Erin Slay Wilson is the Market Leader for StyleBlueprint Birmingham. She lives in the Crestwood neighborhood with her family and their golden retriever, Butter. When Erin isn't writing and building relationships within the community, she loves to read, go on walks around the city, garden, and scope out treasures at local antique malls.
