See the Magic City’s Treasures with this Scavenger Hunt
Reading time: 6 minutes
Whether its our trusty friend Vulcan or the exquisite Botanical Gardens, Birmingham offers countless awe-inspiring locations all across the map. Yet, there are even more lesser-known + charming sites all around that are must see’s. Visit the city’s hidden gems and check these underground places off your bucket list.
Most of these locations can be seen while social distancing or even from inside your car, so bring your mask along for the adventure!
1. The Hassinger Daniels Mansion on 2028 Highland Avenue ✨🏡
Constructed in 1898 for William Hassinger, this stunning Victorian era home will surely dazzle you. It is one of the two Victorian style homes still standing in the area. After being handed down by a series of owners, in 2010 it was renovated to a 10-room bed and breakfast.
2. Storyteller Fountain at the heart of Five Points ⛲️
Though it depicts different mythical characters and symbols–it’s creator Frank Fleming intended for it to be a gentle and peaceful marker for the neighborhood. The design was constructed to promote the power of storytelling and Fleming included different animals to catch the attention of children passing by.
3. Electra atop the Alabama Power building at 600 18th Street North ⚡️
Often referred to as “Vulcan’s girlfriend”, Electra was put in place in 1926. The shimmering figure was established to represent “the state of Alabama rising triumphantly in her electrical progress”. Electra holds six lightening bolts over her head, made of bronze casting and covered in gold leaf.
4. Alabama Peanut Company at 2016 Morris Avenue 🥜
Though its location and ownership have varied from it’s establishment in 1907, their classic recipe stays the same. Their peanuts are sold at arenas all around the country, including Cowboys stadium in Texas and the New Orleans Superdome, and of course Regions Field in Birmingham. As you stop by, grab some of their fresh peanuts with curbside pick up and go nuts.
5. Books, Beans, and Candles at 1620 Richard Arrington Jr Boulevard South🔮
Upon entering, its likely you’ll feel like you’re on the set of The Craft. Books, Beans, and Candles doubles as a metaphysical shop and coffee joint. They offer herbs, candles, healing stones, tarot card readings and much more. Take a look around and channel your witchy self within.
6. “Before I Die” Wall at the corner of 1st Avenue South and 14th Street South✍️
Painted by Birmingham artist, Marcus Fetch, and inspired by Candy Chang, the “Before I Die” project was created in order to inspire individuals to reflect on their lives. Make your mark and add your own dreams to the wall while exploring what others in the community have said.
7. Oak Hill Cemetery at 1120 19th Street North
Many great figures in Alabama history are buried at Oak Hill Cemetery. Most of the 10,000+ burials were done before 1930, including Louise Wooster. Wooster went to great lengths to care for the people of Birmingham during the cholera outbreak. About a decade following this she moved back to the city and opened her own brothel in the late 1800’s at 4th Avenue North. Here are more Birmingham legends laid to rest at Oak Hill.
8. Gabrella Manor at 8912 4th Avenue South 🏰
The gorgeous Gabrella Manor was designed by Dallas architect Robert Bundy in 1938. Its a an exquisite Spanish style mansion with a terra cotta roof, grand staircases, and multiple outdoor terraces. It was purchased by its current owners in 1997 and hosts many venues including anniversaries, weddings, and more.
9. Arlington Antebellum Home & Gardens at 331 Cotton Avenue SW💐👒
The Arlington Home was established in 1822 as a two-story home, 20 years later it was built on to become its current glory. It survived the Civil War and stands as the oldest 19th century house in the Birmingham area–it truly captures the Greek Revival architecture of the 1840s. The house will surely take you back in time with antiques, art, and textiles of its original era.
10. Gip’s Place at Avenue 3101 Avenue C in Bessemer
Gip’s Place was started in 1952 by Henry “Gip” Gipson for local musicians to gather around and jam their favorite tunes. In 2019, Gipson died at the age of 99–yet the music lives on. This juke joint serves as a place for performers around the area to get together and play their favorite southern blues.
11. East Lake Park at 8101 4th Avenue North
East Lake Park was one of the first developments in Birmingham to enhance the area and bring the community together. It was planned in 1886 and soon became a major recreational center that offered a Ferris wheel, swimming, fishing, golfing, boating, baseball, a zoo, concerts, and other entertainment.
See the sites for yourself 👀
Click here for an interactive map of all the sites and their locations around the city. 🗺 🌆🔍👀
There’s nothing greater than when the best gets better–explore these gems on your own and find your new favorite spots in the Magic City.✨ How many of these places around Birmingham will you visit?
If you’re planning on continuing the hunt–check out these lost lakes, parks, and springs along with beautiful must see murals throughout the area.
Keep us updated on your hunt and let us know about your favorite treasures around Birmingham! Tag us on social @bhamnow.
