If you thought Birmingham was a sleepy city in the South, you would be dead wrong. Alabama’s largest city is experiencing a rapid transformation and now is the perfect time to visit while driving your RV. This is the South, reinvented.

It has earned recognition from the James Beard Foundation for its chefs. Furthermore, the Birmingham Civil Rights District has earned a national-monument designation. You’ll be thrilled and surprised with everything you can see and do in this gem of a city. Continue reading to learn more.

Visit the Birmingham Botanical Gardens

You’ll be bug-eyed when you visit the 67.5-acre Birmingham Botanical Gardens. It is located at the southern foot of Red Mountain. There, you can see over 3,000 types of plants.

And, there are also 20 different gardens–including a Japanese garden. Every year, this living museum attracts 300,000 visitors. Be ready to get lost in the flora and fauna. There is always something in bloom.

Sloss Furnaces National Historic Monument

Birmingham is famous for its steel industry. If you want to visit the heart of the steel industry, then you must pay a visit to the Sloss furnaces. These furnaces were in operation between 1882 and 1971. Going there is literally like time travel.

This was once one of the world’s largest producers of pig iron. You’ll also get to see new artwork created by local metal sculptors.

Moreover, the old steel shed has been converted into an ampitheater. So, you might consider checking out a concert or event when you visit there. If you’d like a guided tour–who wouldn’t–then, you should have to schedule one two weeks in advance.

Arlington Antebellum Home and Gardens

You are in the South, darling. So, take a step back and study an antebellum home that has even pre-dated the city’s founding in 1871. This completely restored Greek revival mansion is estimated to have been built between 1845 and 1850. The grounds, surrounding the mansion, are breathtaking.

Plus, inside the mansion you’ll see a bevy of antiques and art pieces from around the world. You might even get into the antebellum spirit while there. Furthermore, there are two annual festivals held here: Christmas at Arlington and the Arlington County Fair.

More outdoor adventure

Since you have your RV with you, then it is easy to park and play. Birmingham offers a wide variety of outdoor activities and adventures for any taste. You can go zip lining at Red Mountain.

Or, for a more subdued outdoor activity, just go for a nice walk at the 19-acre Railroad Park. If you like the water, then try tube floating down the Cahaba River. Truly, Birmingham is an outdoor-lover’s paradise.

In conclusion: you will love modern Birmingham

The full Birmingham experience won’t be had in just one trip as this standout city is constantly evolving. Each time you visit, there will be something new to see and do.

What’s most fun is watching the city change before your very eyes. Whether you love the outdoors, or enjoy eating the creations of a James Beard-awarded chef, Birmingham will be the perfect getaway.