Birmingham Airport Layover? Guide & Tips

Top 5 Layover Ideas for Birmingham Shuttlesworth Airport

Whether you are waiting for a connecting flight or have some time to kill before your departure, Birmingham Shuttlesworth Airport offers a variety of activities to keep you entertained. Here are our top five layover ideas for Birmingham Shuttlesworth Airport.

1. Riverchase Galleria

As one of Birmingham's must-see landmarks, Riverchase Galleria offers a unique shopping experience. With the largest skylight in the western hemisphere, over 200 specialty shops, and more than 30 eateries, it's the perfect place to spend a few hours during your layover. Don't forget to check out the indoor landscaping and fountains, arcades, a NASCAR simulator, and a merry-go-round.

2. Vulcan Park

Take a short trip from the airport to Vulcan Park, home to the second tallest statue in the United States and the tallest cast-iron statue in the world. The statue of Vulcan, the Roman god of fire and forge, offers an observation deck with extraordinary views of the city. Remember, the torch glows red if there has been a city traffic fatality in the previous 24 hours; it is green on other days. The admission is USD1 per person and free for children younger than 6.

3. Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark

If you're interested in history, Sloss Furnace is a must-visit. Constructed in 1882, it's the birthplace of the city of Birmingham and produced steel for more than 90 years. The site features an industrial museum, a sculpture garden, and a park. The furnaces are occasionally the site of concerts and festivals, but otherwise admission is free.

4. Birmingham Botanical Gardens

Enjoy the beauty of nature at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Thanks to Birmingham's warm climate, something is always blooming. Tour the extensive grounds or step inside the Southeast's largest clear-span glass greenhouse. Don't forget to visit the Japanese Tea House and Garden and the Southern Living Garden. Admission is free and all paths are wheelchair and stroller-accessible.

5. Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park

Just a 20-minute drive from downtown Birmingham, Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park is one of the most interesting destinations in the area. The park was the site of a large Civil War-era blast furnace and now features a museum, working artisans recreating rural Alabama life circa the 1840s, and several hiking trails. Admission is USD2 for adults and USD1 for seniors and children.

Helpful Tips & Resources

Need help navigating your way through an unfamiliar airport? Look no further than iFly.com for expert tips and advice. Here are some helpful tips to help you travel stress-free through BHM Airport:

Don't let heavy bags slow you down! Make use of our airport's complimentary baggage carts, available for all travelers in the baggage claim area.
If you have some time before your departure, relax, grab a bite at one of BHM's restaurants, peruse the shops, or jump on the free internet and surf galore!
If you are flying in business or first class (or are a member), check out where the airline club lounges are located.
Once you have passed through security, you can use the airport map to find your gate, as well as the various restaurants and shops that are available on your route.
Surf to your heart's content. Jump on Birmingham Shuttlesworth airport's internet (free!)
For those (dreaded) early-morning flights, consider one of the airport hotels on or near BHM to spend the night prior to your flight. In many cases your parking for the trip's duration is free!
Have a flight arriving and want a fast way to get to your destination? Here are a few taxi and limo airport service providers that service the airport.

Nearby Attractions for an Extended Layover

If your layover extends beyond 12 hours, Birmingham and its surrounding areas offer a plethora of attractions that will give you a taste of the city's rich culture and history. Here are some activities you can enjoy within 12-48 hours of your layover.

1. Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

Take a meaningful journey through the heart of the American civil rights movement at the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute. This engaging museum offers a detailed and stark look at the struggles and triumphs of the civil rights movement in the 1960s. The institute is located in downtown Birmingham, which is easily accessible from the airport.

2. Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum

If you're a fan of motorcycles and vintage cars, a visit to the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum is a must. The museum houses one of the largest collections of vintage and contemporary motorcycles in the world, with over 1,200 motorcycles spanning over 100 years of production. The museum is located in the Barber Motorsports Park, approximately a 20-minute drive from the airport.

3. McWane Science Center

Perfect for families with children, the McWane Science Center offers four floors of interactive exhibits that make learning fun. From the World of Water aquarium to the Itty Bitty Magic City for toddlers, there's something for everyone. The center is located in downtown Birmingham, making it a convenient destination for those with longer layovers.

4. Oak Mountain State Park

Get a breath of fresh air and enjoy the beauty of nature at Oak Mountain State Park. As Alabama's largest state park, it offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, and even golfing. The park is located about a 30-minute drive from the airport, making it a perfect day trip for those with extended layovers.

5. Southern Museum of Flight

Located just a few minutes away from the airport, the Southern Museum of Flight is one of the largest aviation museums in the Southeast. The museum features over 100 aircraft, as well as exhibits on the Tuskegee Airmen, Women in Aviation, and the Vietnam War. It's a fascinating destination for aviation enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Updated on: November 22, 2023

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Layover Ideas Birmingham Shuttlesworth Airport BHM