Center Street Dynamite Hill Walking Tour

Birmingham , United States

Center Street Dynamite Hill Walking Tour

Active

1h - 2h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Booking this tour will provide a one of a kind experience to meet local living legends who lived and protested during the civil right movement, Guest would be able to hear first hand accounts from local residents. The tours would let them know why the Dynamite Hill is called the Dynamite hill. Guest will discover the pivotal contributions of its residents, confront the repercussions of red-lining, and explore the transformative conditions that shaped both Birmingham's past and its future.

Available options

Center Street Dynamite Hill Walking Tour

What's included

Living Legends along the way

Tour Guide

Detailed itinerary

Visitor will tour outside the Our Lady Queen of the Universe Church, an Historic African American Catholic Church that middle class residents, doctors, lawyers, judges, teachers and Business persons attended during the civil rights movement.

Visit the home of the most prominent African American lawyer in the middle class Smith field community during segregation. We will stop by his home and hear the history of his life and legacy.

Visitors will be guided on a Historical Education about the life of one of the most prominent female LGBTQ Civil Rights Activist. We will pass her childhood home and talk to her childhood friends.

There will be discussion on gentrification/neighborhood change and red lining by financial institutions. Visitor will hear how the smith field community has been impacted by land laws and legistlation.

What's not included

Air-conditioned vehicle

Private transportation

Wheelchair Accessible

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

The meeting location where the tour starts is at Our Lady Queen Universe Church. Please arrive 15 minutes earlier at the meeting point and look for your tour guide. Please wear comfortable shoes and sunscreen if need. Bring a bottle of water.

About Birmingham

Birmingham, Alabama, known as the 'Magic City,' is a vibrant destination rich in history and culture. From its pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement to its thriving arts and food scenes, Birmingham offers a unique blend of southern charm and modern innovation.

Top Attractions

Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

This museum is dedicated to the Civil Rights Movement and offers interactive exhibits and educational programs.

Historical 2-3 hours Moderate

Vulcan Park and Museum

Home to the world's largest cast iron statue, Vulcan, this museum offers panoramic views of the city and exhibits on Birmingham's industrial history.

Historical 1-2 hours Moderate

Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark

A former pig iron-producing blast furnace, Sloss Furnaces is now a museum and concert venue with a rich history and eerie atmosphere.

Historical 1-2 hours Moderate

Birmingham Botanical Gardens

A 67.5-acre botanical garden featuring a diverse collection of plants, gardens, and outdoor art.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

McWane Science Center

An interactive science museum with exhibits on natural history, space, and technology, perfect for families and curious minds.

Educational 2-3 hours Moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Fried Green Tomatoes

Fried green tomatoes are a Southern classic, made with unripe tomatoes coated in cornmeal and fried until crispy.

Appetizer Vegetarian (may contain gluten)

Birmingham-Style Barbecue

Birmingham-style barbecue is known for its unique sauce, which is a mix of tomato, vinegar, and molasses, and is typically served with pulled pork or chicken.

Main Course Contains gluten (check for vegetarian/vegan options)

Banana Pudding

A classic Southern dessert made with layers of vanilla wafers, fresh bananas, and whipped cream or custard.

Dessert Vegetarian (may contain gluten)

Popular Activities

Hiking in Oak Mountain State Park Zip-lining at Gulf Adventure Center Kayaking on the Cahaba River Spa treatments at The Club Picnicking in Birmingham Botanical Gardens Wine tasting at Alabama Wine & Beer Trail Visiting the Birmingham Museum of Art Attending a performance at the Alabama Theatre

Best Time to Visit

March to May, September to November

Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

15-28°C 60-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

CST (GMT-6) / CDT (GMT-5)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Birmingham is generally safe for travelers, but like any city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings
• Keep valuables secure
• Use common sense and trust your instincts

Getting there

By air

Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport • 6 miles from city center

By train

Amtrak Station

By bus

Greyhound Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The BJCTA bus system covers most of the city and is affordable, but schedules may not be as frequent as in larger cities.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Five Points South Avondale Homewood

Day trips

Gulf Shores

250 miles • Full day

A popular beach destination on the Gulf Coast, offering white sand beaches, clear waters, and a variety of outdoor activities.

Montgomery

90 miles • Half day to full day

The capital of Alabama, Montgomery is rich in history and culture, with numerous museums, historic sites, and landmarks.

Nashville

200 miles • Full day to overnight

A vibrant city known for its music, food, and nightlife, Nashville offers a variety of attractions and entertainment options.

Festivals

Birmingham Jazz Festival • Late April Magic City Classic • Late November Birmingham Folk Festival • Late September

Pro tips

Visit the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute first thing in the morning to avoid crowds and have a more immersive experience.
Explore the city's neighborhoods on foot or by bike to discover hidden gems and local favorites.
Try Birmingham-style barbecue at a local spot like Saw's Soul Kitchen or Jim 'N Nick's Bar-B-Q.
Attend a concert or event at the historic Alabama Theatre for a taste of the city's rich cultural heritage.
Take a day trip to nearby attractions like Gulf Shores or Montgomery to experience the best of Alabama.