I finally made my way into the Birmingham Museum of Art after driving past it for years like,…read more"Yeah, I'll get to that one day..." Well, that day finally came--and turns out, I've been sleeping on a gem this whole time. First off, free admission? That'll get your attention quicker than a "buy one get one" sign. But seriously, this place is legit. It may not be on the scale of New York City or Chicago, but it absolutely punches above its weight. Birmingham quietly flexing, and I respect it. I started out in the sculpture garden, and with it being spring, the blooming dogwood trees added a layer of nostalgia that hit just right. Between the flowers, the fresh air, and the artwork, it was one of those "slow down and take it in" moments. Not bad for a place I used to ignore at red lights--or even flying past it doing 80 on 59/20. Inside, the collections are surprisingly deep and diverse. European, American, African, Asian--you name it. I spent a good bit of time in the African galleries, which meant a lot to me having traveled to Tanzania several times. It's one thing to read about cultures, but seeing the art up close brings a whole different level of appreciation. They also had a traveling exhibit featuring Claude Monet, and I'll just say--pictures don't do that justice. The way he plays with light and color is something you've got to see in person. The Renaissance pieces were another highlight, especially the Madonna and Child panels. You can actually see the craftsmanship in the materials--it makes you realize these artists weren't just talented, they were patient... like next-level patient. There's also a really cool mix of American artwork that captures early Alabama life. One painting in particular shows a whole social scene--different classes, different backgrounds--all in one place. It's like a historical snapshot, and honestly, probably more accurate than some of the stories we've all heard growing up. Now let's talk about the staff--because that matters. Every person I interacted with was friendly, welcoming, and actually knew their stuff. I asked a few questions, and instead of getting a quick "I think so," I got detailed answers that made the experience even better. That's the kind of thing you remember. Swing by the gift shop or grab a snack on the second floor--they're ready to welcome you. What I appreciated most was how the museum connects everything. You walk through different cultures, different time periods, and somehow it all ties back to the same themes--faith, identity, daily life, legacy. Makes you realize people haven't changed all that much... we've just gotten better at Wi-Fi. Walking out, I couldn't help but laugh a little--I've passed this place for years and had no idea what I was missing. Safe to say, I won't make that mistake again. In fact, this was my second visit in less than a month. If you're local or just passing through Birmingham, this place is absolutely worth your time. Take it from someone who learned the hard way--don't wait as long as I did. Well done, Birmingham!

We decided to visit the museum to see their 'Monet to Matisse' exhibit. I checked occasionally in…read morethe week leading up to our visit. Their website displays how many tickets are remaining for the day. I wanted to ensure this wasn't selling out for our day, in which case I'd have bought tickets in advance online. However, they still showed over 1000 tickets available the day before, so I opted to just buy them at the museum. We had issues with navigation in Birmingham already, and those continued en route to the museum. For whatever reason, the app directed us over a mile beyond downtown and then had us get off the highway, cross the overpass, and double back (?). We actually switched apps a bit later as we were sure there was an issue. We eventually found the museum, though. It wasn't obvious from the front, but apparently the museum does have its own free parking lot behind the building. We ended up parking in a deck a few blocks away, but thankfully that only ended up costing us $3. The museum is normally free for entry, I believe. Donations are encouraged. However, for special travelling exhibits, there was a charge (about $25 per person). This was handled at a kiosk just outside the exhibit. We toured the exhibit and enjoyed it. Works were arranged in 3 large rooms. It was crowded, but manageable. After seeing that, we opted to check out some of the permanent collection before leaving. On the upper level (where we were) there are several rooms devoted to Asian arts (samurai armor from Japan, jade and buddha statues from China, etc.). Korea and India were also represented. If we'd had more time, we would have explored more on this floor. We descended to the first floor and checked out some of the European galleries as well as the end of the wing that is devoted to American art. They had interesting works on all these areas. If I lived in the area, I'd likely come here to check out the permanent collection. Maybe we'll be back at some point to see more of it. This was well worth stopping by if you like art. (I will limit my photos to the permanent collection.)

This is a great museum in Guntersville. I came here last Saturday and learned so much about the…read morehistory of Guntersville, the founder John Gunter, and many more historical figures. The ladies that work here are so kind and personable! You start off with rocks, gems, and arrowheads that lead to rooms filled with the history of Guntersville. You then enter a large exhibit room with a mural painted on the floor. You finish with a room filled with local art. They had a scavenger hunt with candy at the end once you finish. I highly recommend checking this place out!

From the owner: 68,000 acres of water. 10,000 years of history. Hundreds of objects and artifacts. And one great…read moreway to explore Guntersville. As a living repository, the museum offers visitors a chance to explore everything from Native American artifacts and local nostalgia to regional art.

The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute is very informative in regards to telling black history…read more Seeing the artifacts and listening/watching the audio/videos was very emotional to experience, but it's an important piece of history. The exhibit is clean and well maintained, but be advised that the women's bathroom doors do not lock.

Birmingham Civil Rights Institute 16th St Birmingham, AL…read more I wanted to visit this museum, in fear that this history would be deleted, omitted, whitewashed or hidden from public view. As much as insensitive, out of touch people, politicians, or organizations may feel, being reminded of the atrocities committed by their fore parents, we as Americans of indigenous/african descent must endure the pain of oppression, injustice inflicted on our fore parents and threatened to repeat every day, it's a part of our reality politically and socially. These museums provide us with a baseline for freedom deferred also the intestinal fortitude and courage that sustained us.

Movies on the mountain continues to be a fun time. Madagascar, popcorn, perfect weather. Funny…read moreenough, I still don't mind going to catch an animated movie by myself at my big age. lol Life is meant to be enjoyed and I'm taking advantage of doing so. Fun family, friend or solo event.

Vulcan Park and Museum is an excellent spot for panoramic views of Birmingham and an easy addition…read moreto any visit to the city. It's just a short drive from downtown, and one of the best perks is that parking is free and you can walk around the statue grounds without paying anything. Even if you don't go inside, the overlook alone is worth the trip for the skyline views and photo opportunities. If you're interested in the history behind the statue and its restoration, there's a museum on site that adds a lot of context. Admission is $8, and that ticket also lets you take the elevator up inside the statue to about three-quarters of the way to the top, which gives you even higher and more impressive views of the city. Overall, it's a great mix of scenery and local history. Whether you just want a quick stop for the views or a deeper dive into Birmingham's past, it's a worthwhile visit.

Awesome museum. Was immediately greeted with some history on how the Birmingham Barons began and…read morehow the culture of the Negro League's started. Lots of great artifacts like the uniforms, baseball bats, balls and of course all of the amazing GREATS from Willie Mays to Hank Aaron to one of my favorites, The Big Hurt. Picked up a jacket and a tshirt on clearance.

This is one of those "Must See" places, if you care anything about the preservation of history…read more Just like most things in America, there was a division in sports between Black people and Caucasian people, which required Black people to create their avenue for baseball. This museum gives a historical account of how Negroes formed their own league in the South and how great they were at playing professionally with very little resources. I was invited to the Negro Southern League Museum's annual celebration as a guest. What a wonderful and heartfelt event. I had the opportunity to meet and admire some of the local players that played in Major League Baseball along with some of Birmingham's public and civic leaders. Although, I've toured the museum before, it was still amazing to see the old uniforms, read about the history of Negroes in baseball and how great they were at a time when they were not being recognized for their greatness! Yes, it was a struggle, but as history has taught us "Greatness" is usually born out of struggle. So, visit the museum, take your family and friends. Most of all take the children, they deserve to learn about how "Greatness" can be born out of struggle. I will continue to go back each year to celebrate America's history of Negroes in baseball.

I enjoyed my experience here! It was my first time coming back in 10+ years so I was wondering…read moreabout the upkeep with it being so old, but you can tell they take a lot of pride in their cleanliness there. The carpet seemed in need of redoing with the amount of foot traffic it has seen. We were there for the IMAX screening of the Blue Angels documentary. It's a true IMAX dome theater. It was immaculately clean in the theater and the seats looked brand new. The movie gave me the same feeling I get whenever I have worn the 3D glasses they give you in the AMC theaters, so be forewarned I did get dizzy a few times during the movie. For 2 tickets the price came out to $21.90. I would definitely come again for the right movie, but need a break from the dizziness I got.

Plenty to do for my 2 years old grand daughter. Museum members are polite and extremely helpful .read more

Attended a group's anniversary party at this location. It was my first time visiting this museum…read moreand it was interesting. There were different styles of planes and I saw at least 1 helicopter. The tables were spaced around the planes. I saw gift shops. Nice place to visit

We hadn't planned on coming here, we just saw a sign on the interstate and decided to drop in and…read moreI'm glad we did. The guy working the front desk was very welcoming. It's not a giant museum but it has an impressive collection of real and replica aircraft, from Da Vinci's flying machines to Vietnam helicopters. Some interesting artifacts include a propellor gifted to the Red Baron, a Soviet MiG, and lots of Tuskegee Airman items. I highly recommend it for an interesting hour or two.

Here we go! Review #300! And keeping with my centennial theme (#100 was Review of Georgia Tech -…read more#200 was Review of Bobby Dodd Stadium), you're probably wondering how this museum relates? And if you weren't, don't worry - I'll tell you below. The Birmingham Georgia Tech Alumni Association held their annual banquet at this museum last month. Not being from the Birmingham area, I had no idea that this place existed! What a great venue for events, while also showcasing Birmingham Water Works from its earliest days.Use of the museum is for business and civic orgs only.... so no wedding receptions or private parties. AV and other technologies are also available for use. Not sure on the cost to rent, but given that the Alumni Assc. has a limited budget, I'm sure we didn't spend too much on renting the space. Stop by and view this venue if you're looking for a unique spot to hold your next meeting or event!

This place gets 5 stars because there are no apparent downsides that I've ever noticed. Easy to…read morefind, just a few minutes of hwy 280. Truthfully speaking, I've never been inside the larger museum room and am not exactly sure what all it entails. This review is specific to this building being used as a party/event venue. I've been on 3 separate occasions now (2 holiday parties and a baby shower) and have always had a good time. You can setup the room however you'd like with tables, chairs, microphone, speakers etc. There's also kitchen space and easily accessible restrooms to take advantage of. On this same side of the building where parties can be hosted, there's also a little bit of interactive museum stuff... fun!! Some cool pictures and historical information displays can be found throughout this room as well! Brick walls, high open ceilings and all the rustic decor makes this place feel unique, authentic and like any other event venue that you'll find in Birmingham (that I know of).