Birmingham Civil Rights Tour- Riding & Walking

Birmingham , United States

Birmingham Civil Rights Tour- Riding & Walking

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(804 reviews)

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

On this three hour WALKING & DRIVING tour, you’ll travel around Birmingham to learn about the struggle for equal rights from the end of the Civil War up through the Civil Rights movement. Your tour will begin at the statue of Reverend Fred Shuttlesworth, the leader of the local movement Civil Rights struggle. We’ll discuss why the Civil Rights movement was needed and what led to segregation's fall. As you visit the major churches, parks and houses, you'll learn about a few groups who fought for Civil Rights in Birmingham and who fought against it.

Available options

Birmingham Civil Rights Tour- Riding & Walking

What's included

All taxes, fees and handling charges

Driver/guide

Air conditioned transportation

Live commentary on board

All activities

Detailed itinerary

Guests will walk around Kelly Ingram Park, see 16th Street Baptist Church, and learn about the Civil Rights movement in Birmingham

Walk around the park to see the statues and learn about those who marched for freedom in Birmingham

Learn about the role the church played in the Civil Rights movement in Birmingham and the history of the church bombing that tragically killed four little girls.

See where the march protests ended in Birmingham and learn about groups fighting for Civil Rights in Birmingham

Guests will learn about Bull Connor and his clashes against those fighting for Civil Rights

Visit Dynamite Hill to see houses and churches that were bombing in Birmingham during the Civil Rights movement.

Guests will see the church where Rev. Fred Shuttlesworth led the movement from

See the Black Business District to learn about Black life in Birmingham during its heyday.

Guests will see where Rev. Fred Shuttlesworth attempted to integrate schools in Birmingham

See where the Freedom Riders where attacked in Birmingham.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

319 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

485 reviews

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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Children must be accompanied by an adult

TOUR RUNS RAIN OR SHINE. If canceled due to significant weather (hurricane, tornado, or ice), you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund. We have transporation if the rain becomes an issue.

We will walk over a mile on the tour in temperatures anywhere between 40-100F. Guests must be able to walk unassisted at a reasonable speed.

Not recommended for those that cannot walk at least a mile.

Not recommended for those affected by cold/hot weather.

Meeting point

I will be standing in front of the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute next to the Fred Shuttlesworth statue. There is a parking lot diagonal from the front of the Institute that is free to park in. There is also free street parking(no meters) & paid street parking(meters) around the start point.

Important notes

This tour contains both WALKING and RIDING. We cannot accommodate those who cannot walk at least one (1) mile over the course of three hours. You must be able to walk at least one (1) mile and then stand while to tour is being provided. You will not be able to sit in the transportation while the group is out walking. Refunds will not be given to those who cannot walk.

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.