30 Exciting After-Church Activities in Birmingham, Alabama

After attending a soul-stirring church service in Birmingham, Alabama, you might be eager to extend your Sunday experience with some delightful activities. Fortunately, Birmingham offers an array of options to suit every interest and age group. From cultural explorations to thrilling adventures, there’s something for everyone. Here are 30 exciting after-church activities, ensuring your Sunday in Birmingham remains memorable.

1. Visit the Birmingham Zoo: Spend a leisurely afternoon exploring the Birmingham Zoo, which houses over 200 species of animals from around the world. From majestic elephants to playful chimpanzees, the zoo offers fascinating exhibits and educational programs for visitors of all ages.
2. Enjoy a Picnic at Railroad Park: Railroad Park is a sprawling 19-acre green space in downtown Birmingham, featuring walking paths, scenic ponds, and beautiful landscaping. Pack a picnic basket and enjoy a relaxing afternoon amidst the park’s tranquil surroundings.
3. Take a Stroll Through Vulcan Park and Museum: Towering high above the city, the Vulcan statue stands as a symbol of Birmingham’s industrial heritage. Explore the park grounds and enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline from the observation deck. The adjacent museum offers exhibits detailing the history of Birmingham and the iron industry.
4. Explore the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute: Step back in time and learn about the struggles and triumphs of the civil rights movement at the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute. Interactive exhibits, historic artifacts, and multimedia presentations provide a powerful and educational experience.
5. Indulge in Southern Cuisine: Birmingham is renowned for its delicious Southern cuisine, from mouthwatering barbecue to savory soul food. Sample local favorites at iconic restaurants like Saw’s BBQ, Highlands Bar and Grill, or Niki’s West.
6. Attend a Concert at the Alabama Theatre: Experience the grandeur of the historic Alabama Theatre, a beautifully restored movie palace that hosts a variety of concerts and performances throughout the year. From live music to classic film screenings, there’s always something entertaining happening at this iconic venue.
7. Take a Brewery Tour: Birmingham is home to a thriving craft beer scene, with several breweries offering tours and tastings. Join a guided tour of Good People Brewing Company or Avondale Brewing Company to learn about the brewing process and sample a variety of locally crafted beers.
8. Go Hiking at Ruffner Mountain: Lace up your hiking boots and explore the scenic trails of Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve. With over 14 miles of hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging, it’s the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
9. Attend a Sporting Event: Cheer on the home team at a Birmingham sporting event. From Birmingham Barons baseball games at Regions Field to UAB Blazers football games at Legion Field, there’s always a thrilling game to catch in the Magic City.
10. Visit the Birmingham Museum of Art: Immerse yourself in the world of art at the Birmingham Museum of Art, which houses an impressive collection of over 27,000 works spanning centuries and continents. Admission is free, making it accessible to all art lovers.
11. Go Shopping at The Summit: Treat yourself to a shopping spree at The Summit, Birmingham’s premier shopping destination. Browse upscale retailers like Apple, Anthropologie, and Lululemon, and enjoy dining options ranging from casual cafes to fine dining restaurants.
12. Explore the Botanical Gardens: Discover the natural beauty of Birmingham Botanical Gardens, featuring 67 acres of themed gardens, walking paths, and greenhouses. Explore the Japanese Gardens, smell the roses in the Formal Gardens, or take a leisurely stroll through the Southern Living Garden.
13. Take a Historic Walking Tour: Explore Birmingham’s rich history and architecture on a guided walking tour. Discover historic neighborhoods like Five Points South, Southside, and Highland Park, and learn about the city’s diverse cultural heritage from knowledgeable local guides.
14. Enjoy a Riverboat Cruise: Embark on a scenic riverboat cruise along the Cahaba or Black Warrior River. Relax on deck as you soak in picturesque views of the surrounding landscape and learn about the history and ecology of the region from onboard naturalists.
15. Attend a Gospel Concert: Experience the uplifting power of gospel music by attending a live concert or performance at one of Birmingham’s churches or music venues. From traditional hymns to contemporary gospel songs, there’s something for every music lover to enjoy.
16. Try Your Luck at a Casino: For a dose of excitement, head to one of Birmingham’s casinos and try your luck at the slots or gaming tables. With lively atmospheres and entertainment options like live music and dining, they offer a thrilling evening out for adults.
17. Join a Historical Tour of Rickwood Field: Baseball enthusiasts will delight in a tour of Rickwood Field, America’s oldest ballpark. Learn about its storied history and significance in the world of baseball as you explore the stadium and its memorabilia-filled museum.
18. Take a Cooking Class: Channel your inner chef by taking a cooking class at one of Birmingham’s culinary schools or specialty stores. Learn new recipes and techniques from expert chefs, and enjoy hands-on instruction in a fun and interactive environment.
19. Visit the McWane Science Center: Spark your curiosity and imagination at the McWane Science Center, where interactive exhibits and educational programs explore the wonders of science and technology. From dinosaur fossils to hands-on experiments, there’s something to fascinate visitors of all ages.
20. Attend a Theater Production: Enjoy an evening of theatrical entertainment by attending a live theater production in Birmingham. From classic plays to contemporary works, local theaters like the Alabama Shakespeare Festival and Red Mountain Theatre Company offer a diverse range of performances to suit every taste.
21. Go Bowling: Gather your friends and family for a fun-filled game of bowling at one of Birmingham’s bowling alleys. With modern facilities, arcade games, and food and drink options, it’s a great way to unwind and enjoy some friendly competition.
22. Join a Yoga Class: Find your zen and rejuvenate your body and mind with a yoga class in Birmingham. Many studios offer classes suitable for all skill levels, from gentle restorative yoga to challenging vinyasa flow, allowing you to stretch, strengthen, and relax in a supportive environment.
23. Explore the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum: Marvel at a stunning collection of vintage motorcycles and automobiles at the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum. With over 1,600 vehicles on display, including rare and one-of-a-kind models, it’s a paradise for automotive enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
24. Go Horseback Riding: Saddle up and explore the scenic countryside surrounding Birmingham on horseback. Guided trail rides offer a unique way to connect with nature and enjoy the great outdoors, whether you’re a seasoned rider or a beginner.
25. Take a Day Trip to Oak Mountain State Park: Escape the hustle and bustle of the city with a day trip to Oak Mountain State Park. With over 9,000 acres of pristine wilderness to explore, the park offers hiking, biking, swimming, fishing, and more amidst breathtaking natural scenery.
26. Attend a Dance Class: Get your groove on and learn some new moves by attending a dance class in Birmingham. From salsa to swing, there are plenty of dance styles to choose from, with classes available for dancers of all levels and abilities.
27. Go Fishing: Cast a line and enjoy a relaxing day of fishing at one of Birmingham’s lakes or rivers. Whether you’re fishing for bass, catfish, or bream, the region offers plenty of opportunities to reel in a big catch and enjoy the serenity of nature.
28. Join a Book Club: Engage in lively discussions and expand your literary horizons by joining a book club in Birmingham. Meet fellow book lovers, discover new authors, and share your passion for reading in a supportive and social setting.
29. Volunteer for a Community Service Project: Give back to the community by volunteering for a local charity or nonprofit organization. Whether you’re serving meals at a soup kitchen, helping with a community garden, or participating in a clean-up effort, your efforts can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
30. Experience the Big Escape Rooms: Round off your Sunday with an exhilarating adventure at Big Escape Rooms. Put your problem-solving skills to the test as you work together with friends or family to escape from themed rooms filled with puzzles and challenges. It’s a thrilling way to bond and create lasting memories, making it an excellent choice for post-church entertainment in Birmingham.

With its diverse array of attractions and activities, Birmingham, Alabama, offers endless possibilities for post-church adventures. Whether you’re seeking cultural enrichment, outdoor exploration, or adrenaline-pumping excitement, the Magic City has something for everyone. So the next time you find yourself in Birmingham on a Sunday, be sure to make the most of your day with these top 30 after-church activities.