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.

What is there really to say about a relatively obscure museum that specializes in the history of a…read moreplace like Bessemer, Alabama? To start, it's free. So the value is extraordinary. It will only cost you a little bit of your time to come in and check out some unique relics that give a nice insight into how Bessemer developed over time into the place that it is, and how life was there over that span of time. It's a small museum in a historic train station and it's just a few blocks from the courthouse. If you're in the area It's worth it to kill a little time and stop in to check it out. Plenty of parking out front makes it easy to just walk right up, and the attendant inside today was more than friendly and seemed happy that someone was actually coming in. I don't think this place really gets a lot of traffic. It's quiet, and tidy and has a number of interesting things that you might not see anywhere else. Long story short, if you're in to history come by this place and check it out. You'll be glad you did.

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.)

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!

Very cool place tucked right off of the Leeds exit. I came not knowing what to expect but I was…read morejust amazed at all of the cars, motorcycles, bikes and overall all the history and beauty this place offers! We did a cool scavenger hunt that led us on each of the floors and gave us reason to explore. There is lots of walking, but the museum is handicapped accessible! So many fun facts about the vehicles, any car enthusiast would be impressed! We even got to see a race! The staff was super kind and welcoming. Great outing for many ages... check this place out!

I only learned about this place a couple of years ago when I was considering a trip to Birmingham…read more It showed up on a 'things to do' list. I read a bit more about it and decided that it might be worthwhile if we had time in the area. We finally ended up with a reason to visit Birmingham, and this seemed to fit nicely into the afternoon drive there. The museum and the surrounding racing complex is located just off I-20. You exit near the town of Leeds and then drive maybe 2 - 3 miles (much of which is a dedicated road that just leads to the entrance). The property is huge. When we visited, once you pass through their gates, they had a guy waiting in a truck to direct you. He was friendly. I got the vibe that they didn't want randos driving further into the actual racing area, as it was in use for some private event. So we turned into the museum parking lot. There are some sculptures outside the entrance. Then you go in and pay the ~ $22 entry fee. The building is huge. It is open around a central atrium, with floors on opposite sides staggered at 'half floor' levels. They advise you to take the elevator to the top (5th) floor and work your way down. We did so. The elevator itself is large enough for cars, which is probably how they shift exhibits around. The top 2 - 3 floors are exclusively motorcycles. I'm not by any means a 'biker' but I still found the displays interesting. They are generally grouped in like clusters, either by brand or vintage or function. We paused to read some plaques, but not a majority. If you read everything, you'd likely be here all day (which might be fine for you). We stopped to take photos and appreciate bikes that were of particular interest (and there were a lot). After completing one floor, you descend on a curved ramp down to the next floor below but on the opposite side of the building. They have areas dedicated to different types of motorcycle racing (track vs. drag), an area about vintage / old bikes (from 100+ years ago). Then you start seeing some racing cars integrated in, and by the bottom floor, it is pretty much all cars. The cars are also interesting (I especially liked a 1960 Corvette and a 1966 VW Beetle, for personal reasons). Most of the cars were for racing and had sleek / interesting designs. The back wall of the museum faces part of their private race track. You may occasionally see / hear cars going by. You can exit and walk across a bridge over the track to a wooded area beyond (in the interior of the track). There was a further bridge / platform where you could see more of the track, but we didn't go up there. I also liked the design of the building and the displays. Some seats are designed to look like tires. A display of dirt bike racing had simulated churned up dirt made of concrete to evoke the racing conditions. The whole place was well laid out and masterfully architected. I checked later and my step count for just walking through the museum and the adjoining grounds was about 6000. I think most people, regardless of their attachment to racing, motorcycles, or cars, would likely find this place quite interesting.

Amazing place, great local museum to find out a lot about Helena history. It's nice to find out…read moreabout information about the area and how the city has evolved over time and is a great source to find out about new stuff. Many different things, bottles, pictures, flags, and a whole lot more. Great place, go check it out.

Wonderful museum telling both Helena, AL and Shelby County, AL history! Ken Penhale, the museum…read morecoordinator, is friendly, always willing to explain the historical artifacts, and has a wealth of historical information regarding the area!

As a resident of this great city, I love the train watching platform. It's a great way to relax on…read morea hot summer evening and if you're into trains, this is the perfect spot. There are two tracks There's an old caboose across the tracks from the platform that you can also visit. The historic Irondale Cafe (famous for their fried green tomatoes) is across the street along with other businesses as well. There are plenty of benches to sit on as you watch the trains go on their merry way to their destinations.

The Alabama Theatre has a very rich history here in Birmingham and has been a landmark since the…read more1920's. It is a beautiful and elegant venue that has been renovated over the years but kept its identity to its original state. I've attended several events here over the years, from concerts, to movies to guest speakers. My high school graduation was held here back in 1997. There are usually snacks such as popcorn available for purchase and beverages. I don't remember other food being available. The staff is always pleasant and ready to assist. Pro Tip: The seating on the lower level is much more comfy than upstairs, especially if you are hippy or curvy or just want more room. Buy your tickets keeping this in mind.

Great venue for a show or concert. There's plenty of street parking along with paid parking nearby…read more The venue offered snacks, cocktails and drinks. I'm not sure about prices, I didn't have any. I don't think any of the seats are bad for viewing the stage.i do think that they should invest funds into renovating or replacing the seats. The seats are short, low and small. They also do not have an elevator. Be prepared to climb many stairs if you don't purchase floor seats. They seemed to have improved the sound system, which really made the musical experience better. I thoroughly enjoyed Orchestra Noir and can't wait to see them again next year. I will definitely go back.

I find the historical pieces of Tannehill State Park interesting…read more The museum is cool. Although being from Michigan, it is small compared to the Henry Ford museum in Dearborn. It doesn't take long to get through, but you'll learn more about the history of the civil war and steel industry here in Alabama. Don't forget to walk around the outside of the museum too, you'll see old tractors and other industrial machines. If you have 30 minutes, walk down the path to the furnaces. They are impressive to see too. My only feedback is to improve that gift shop. I love buying souvenirs but there is nothing of interest in the gift shop to me.

Saturday March 8th, Tony and I went to the Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park to walk around…read moreand enjoy the sunshine NOT REALIZING we were stepping back into time, to time long gone and full of history. I found this park amazing and this MUSEUM was so informative and amazing. I learned so much about the process of Iron making. Tony enjoyed it so much as well. History: The Iron & Steel Museum of Alabama is a southeastern regional interpretive center on 19th century iron making featuring both belt driven machines of the 1800s and tools and products of the times. It focuses on the Roupes Valley Ironworks at Tannehill which operated nearby, first as a bloomery beginning in 1830 and later as an important battery of charcoal blast furnaces during the Civil War. The ironworks gave birth to the Birmingham Iron & Steel District Along with Tannehill artifacts that have survived, museum exhibits graphically demonstrate how iron was made during the Civil War when 13 different iron companies and six rolling mills made Alabama the arsenal of the Confederacy. During the last two years of the war, Alabama furnaces produced 70% of the Confederate iron supply. Exhibits include a display of rare CS artillery projectiles manufactured at the Selma Arsenal and Gun Works, a part of the Steve Phillips Collection, along with Civil War weaponry actually used in battle including a 52 Cal. U.S. Spencer Repeater The Tannehill museum, which includes 13,000 square feet of floor space, first opened in 1981. It underwent a major make-over of exhibits in 2004-05. New exhibits include one of the oldest steam engines in America, a power source once used on a rice plantation in South Carolina. The 1835 Dotterer engine was a part of the collection acquired by Henry Ford in the 1920s and was formerly exhibited at the Henry Ford Museum at Greenfield Village. It is similar to the Tannehill blast engine once in place here Other displays feature a complete mid-1800s machine shop including a Townsend cannon lathe dating to 1864 and a Putnam planer built in 1860. The shop's steam engine dates to 1870. Visitors can also see original parts of the Six Mile Bloomery Forge dating to 1863 including one of the few helve hammers in the United States. Exhibits also focus on geology, furnace fuels, cookware and Birmingham's cast iron pipe industry which today accounts for over half of the U. S. output. Various interactive displays bring the viewer into historical environments. The museum has a 25-seat theatre, gift shop and a timeline which traces growth of the iron trade from ancient Egypt to U.S. Steel's modern Fairfield Works in Birmingham Behind the museum, visit the May Plantation Cotton Gin House which dates to 1858, and the heavy industrial display building which houses artifacts from Birmingham steel mills of the 1930s-1950s Museum Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8:30 am. - 4:30 pm. Sat. 9:00 am. - 4:30 pm. Sun. 12:30 pm. - 4:30 pm. Learning Center School Field Trips during the Spring and Fall. Please call to reserve a field trip or other group visits. Admission: $2.00 Adults $1 Children 6-11 & Seniors 62+ Children 5 and Under Free.