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When visiting Legacy Arena in Birmingham, Alabama, you’re not only stepping into a place that hosts incredible concerts, sporting events, and live performances but also landing yourself in the middle of a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or someone who always seeks the best food and entertainment, Birmingham has something special for you. Here’s a guide to ten must-see attractions near Legacy Arena that you won’t want to miss.
Top 10 Attractions Near Legacy Arena
1. Birmingham Civil Rights Institute
- Distance: 3.5 miles from Legacy Arena
- Price: Adults $19, Youth (6-17) $15, Children under 6 free
The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute is a must-visit destination for anyone wanting to better understand the history of the Civil Rights Movement. This powerful museum features compelling exhibits, eye-opening galleries, and immersive learning experiences. It’s located near historic landmarks like the 16th Street Baptist Church, making it the anchor point of the Birmingham Civil Rights District. Don’t forget to take your time as you walk through the museum—you’ll leave with a deeper understanding of history.
Visit: https://www.bcri.org/
2. BJCC and Uptown Entertainment District
- Distance: Adjacent to Legacy Arena
- Price: Costs vary depending on events
The Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex (BJCC) is where Birmingham truly comes to life. As a multi-purpose venue, it offers a mix of entertainment, dining, and shopping right at your doorstep. The Uptown Entertainment District within BJCC is packed with trendy restaurants, bars, and plenty of parking for visitors. Whether you’re grabbing a bite before a show or exploring the area after an event, this spot buzzes every day of the week.
Visit: https://www.bjcc.org/
3. Vulcan Park and Museum
- Distance: 3.8 miles from Legacy Arena
- Price: Free to visit Vulcan; Museum admission by donation
Standing tall as an icon in Birmingham, Vulcan is the world’s largest cast-iron statue and a symbol of the city’s industrial roots. At Vulcan Park and Museum, not only can you take stunning panoramic photos of downtown Birmingham, but you’ll also learn about the city’s iron and steel industry history. This is an excellent stop for families and photography enthusiasts alike!
Visit: https://visitvulcan.com/
4. Birmingham Museum of Art
- Distance: 4.4 miles from Legacy Arena
- Price: Free admission
Art lovers will be delighted by the Birmingham Museum of Art, which houses one of the most impressive collections in the Southeast. Its 27,000+ works range from ancient artifacts to modern masterpieces. Bonus: Admission is free, giving everyone a chance to explore its outstanding exhibits!
Visit: https://artsbma.org/
5. Railroad Park
- Distance: 0.5 miles from Legacy Arena
- Price: Free admission
Nicknamed “Birmingham’s Living Room,” Railroad Park is a 19-acre green space in the heart of downtown. It’s the perfect place to relax and soak up the atmosphere. Kids will love the playgrounds, while adults will appreciate the scenic walking trails and community events like concerts, yoga classes, and food truck gatherings.
Visit: https://www.railroadpark.org/
6. Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum
- Distance: 19.8 miles from Legacy Arena
- Price: Adults $15, Seniors/Students $13, Children under 4 free
If you’re willing to venture a bit farther out, the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum is well worth it. This museum holds the world’s largest motorcycle collection and a variety of racecars. With over 1,600 motorcycles on display, it’s a can’t-miss attraction for auto enthusiasts.
Visit: https://barbermuseum.org/
7. McWane Science Center
- Distance: 2.9 miles from Legacy Arena
- Price: Adults $19, Youth (3-12) $16, Children under 3 free
The McWane Science Center is perfect for families looking to inject some interactive fun into their trip. Featuring an aquarium, a shark and ray touch tank, and an IMAX theater, this science museum combines education and excitement for all ages.
Visit: https://mcwane.org/
8. Birmingham Botanical Gardens
- Distance: 1.8 miles from the downtown core
- Price: Free admission (donations welcome)
Take a peaceful stroll through 67 acres of stunning plant collections at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. From rose gardens to Japanese-style landscapes, there’s always something blooming. Admission is free, though donations are happily accepted.
Visit: https://bbgardens.org/
9. Oak Mountain State Park
- Distance: 17.8 miles from Legacy Arena
- Price: Costs vary depending on activities
Love the great outdoors? Oak Mountain State Park is Alabama’s largest state park, offering hiking trails, a golf course, and serene lakes for fishing and boating. Cyclists and hikers have over 50 miles of trails to explore here!
Visit: https://www.alapark.com/parks/oak-mountain-state-park
10. Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark
- Distance: 4.2 miles from Legacy Arena
- Price: Free to explore; guided tours available for a fee
Sloss Furnaces is a one-of-a-kind attraction in Birmingham, serving as a National Historic Landmark that highlights the city’s industrial past. Once a massive blast furnace, it’s now an urban park hosting educational tours, art festivals, and live music events.
Visit: https://www.slossfurnaces.com/
Final Thoughts on Visiting Legacy Arena
Birmingham, Alabama, is filled with hidden gems, and your visit to Legacy Arena offers the perfect chance to explore them all. From inspiring museums to peaceful parks to rich historical landmarks, there’s something for everyone within a short distance of the arena. Let this list be your guide as you plan the ultimate trip to Birmingham.
Ready to experience the best of Birmingham? Don’t wait—make your itinerary today and start exploring these incredible spots immediately!
If you’ve already visited any of these locations, share your experiences in the comments below! And if you found this guide helpful, consider sharing it with friends or family planning a trip to Birmingham.
*Notes*: Meta description, 10 must-see attractions near Legacy Arena in Birmingham include historical sites, museums, and parks. Plan your visit today!, Tags: Birmingham attractions, Legacy Arena, Birmingham tourism, Vulcan Park, Birmingham Civil Rights, BJCC, Sloss Furnaces, Oak Mountain, Railroad Park, Barber Museum, Longtail