in birmingham, alabama and...

[smiling gecko]

i am in birmingham, Alabama 'til the 27th/28th while my truck is in the shop.

wondering if a local RFff member could give me some pointers on interesting architecture or city parks/gardens or maybe a photography meet-up. i do have a rental car.

kenneth david

 

[Frontman]

If I were in Birmingham, I would drive to Anniston, and see if it were possible to get into Fort McClellan. The fort was a basic training facility for God knows how long, but was closed a few years ago. If any of the old facilities and buildings are still there, they would be worth a few pictures. I attended basic training there myself, and would love to go in and get another look. There was and old POW camp inside the fort where German prisoners were kept during WW2, it was a fascinating place when I last saw it, as it was being consumed by the woods.

 

[Paulbe]

Kenneth--I'm not in B'ham--but there are a great photo ops in the downtown area. The Alabama theater is worth a visit. The "Great Gatsby" houses on the side of the mountain have a great view from the road in front of the houses, if you can find how to get up there. That neighborhood literally closes at 7PM, though. Go up to the Vulcan statue for a great view. Some great places to see in Mountain View--nice places to eat, too. B'ham is a super city--they didn't tear down all the old buildings like Atlanta did--have fun! If the Sloss furnace is open--well worth a visit.
Paul

 

[Spavinaw]

I don't live in Birmingham, but have spent a lot of time in the area. If you like things that roll, here are a few suggestion. On the east edge of town off I-20 is the Barber Vintage Motorsport Museum with the worlds largest collection of motorcycles and Lotus cars. About 45 miles on east on I-20 is the International Motorsport Hall fo Fame at the Talladega Speedway. And at Calera, about 33 miles south of town on I-65 is the Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum. Has lots of old, really old, railroad cars, a few engines, and a nice little museum. If you go, don't take the first Calera exit US31, wait for the second Calera exit Highway 25. The museum and railyard are just over a mile from this exit.