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Looking forward to picnic weather in Birmingham? Here’s your starter pack.
Warm and sunny one day, but freezing and rainy another day. Welcome to Birmingham. When the weather’s just right and you need any excuse to get outside, grab your crew because we’re heading on a picnic.
First things first—you’re going to need supplies
Take a visit to your local outdoor store
All right, Birmingham. Let’s get some of those picnic essentials. Luckily, there are several one-stop-shops to make it easy. Here’s what we’ll need:
- Cooler
- Blanket
- Lawn Chair
Birmingham is home to several locally owned outdoor stores. Here are some to get you started:
Mountain High Outfitters
Alabama Outdoors
Mark’s Outdoors
- Website | 1400 Montgomery Hwy, Vestavia Hills, AL 35216
Check out your local thrift store for that dreamy wicker basket
When I envision a picnic, I think of that classic wicker basket. If you’re wanting the ultimate, aesthetically pleasing experience, check out the following thrift stores that are sure to offers lots of worthwhile finds:
Sozo Trading Co.
- Website | 4 41st St S, Birmingham, AL 35222
Lovelady Thrift Stores
America’s Thrift Store
Arguably the most important part—FOOD
Food is the main event at the picnic. I wish I could tell you the perfect picnic meal, but it really just depends on what you’re craving.
Obviously, food is the main event at a picnic. Find what you’re craving here.
Set the scene
Now it’s time to head to your destination. Are you looking for an urban vibe or something picturesque in nature? Birmingham has the perfect setting for each. Here are some spots around The Magic City that are picnic friendly.
Railroad Park
Of course, we had to include Birmingham’s front lawn—Railroad Park. With ample amount of space to spread out and catch some incredible skyline views, this one is towards the top of my picnic locations list.
- Location: 1600 1st Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233
The Vulcan Park and Museum’s lawn
Did you know one of the coolest picnic spots was under the feet of The Vulcan? Head on up to the iron giant that overlooks Downtown Birmingham for some spectacular views.
- Location: 1701 Valley View Dr, Birmingham, AL 35209
Birmingham Botanical Gardens
Want more of an oasis feel? Grab your crew and wonder around the dreamy landscape at Birmingham Botanical Gardens. When you reach your Insta-worthy spot, settle in and enjoy.
- Location: 2612 Lane Park Rd, Birmingham, AL 35223
Bessie Sears Estell Park
Located in Glen Iris right next to the UAB Intramural Field, this park is named for Bessie Sears Estell, a long-time educator and the first African-American woman to sit on the Birmingham City Council. Â It’s a great spot for kids, too, with plenty of room to run and a playground even I would give a try. The park is also wheelchair accessible.
- Location: 901 8th St S, Birmingham, AL 35205
Moss Rock Preserve
Moss Rock Preserve makes for an adventure. Pack lightly if you want to venture down to the waterfall and enjoy some good eats in a tranquil setting.
Here’s a little inside tip. There are locally-owned restaurants at the entrance of Moss Rock, including Moss Rock Tacos & Tequila and Vecchia Pizzeria & Mercato.
- Location: 617 Preserve Way, Hoover, AL 35226
Sibyl Temple
It took me travelling up to Sibyl Temple in Vestavia for a photo shoot to realize that it’s actually the picture-perfect place for a picnic. As a public park, the site offers a beautiful view of Shades Valley—especially at dusk and dawn.
- Location: 154 Montgomery Hwy, Vestavia Hills, AL 35216
Need more inspo? Check out our recent guide to parks in Bham. In the meantime, keep up with fun, local news on social @bhamnow.
