Reviewed by: Cindy Hatcher
Here’s where to see some of the best views in Birmingham
Reading time: 4 minutes
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Looking for the best views in Birmingham? Whether you’re a local or visiting for the weekend, the Magic City has no shortage of scenic spots where you can take in rolling mountains, bright sunsets and a skyline we all know and love.
At the heart of them all is Rise Red Mountain, a new community offering 360-degree views from the comfort of home.
Including this awesome spot, here are five of our favorite places to soak in Birmingham’s beauty.
1. Vulcan Park + Vulcan Trail

No list of Birmingham views would be complete without Vulcan. Towering over the city, this iconic statue of the Roman god of fire and metals is the world’s largest cast-iron statue and a beloved symbol of Birmingham. From Vulcan Park, you’ll get an incredible bird’s-eye view of downtown and beyond.
If you want to keep exploring, take a walk or bike ride along the Vulcan Trail. This 2.2-mile path is part of the Red Rock Trail System and offers plenty of shaded views along the way.
- Location:
- Vulcan Park & Museum 1701 Valley View Dr, Birmingham
- Vulcan Trail 1867 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd S
- Distance from Rise Red Mountain:
- Vulcan Park & Museum: 2.4 Miles
- Vulcan Trail: 3.1 Miles
- Website
2. Ruffner Mountain: Hawk’s View Overlook


For the adventurers, Ruffner Mountain’s Hawk’s View overlook is well worth the hike. After a short but rewarding climb, you’ll find one of the best vantage points in Birmingham, stretching across the city and out toward the horizon.
Ruffner Mountain is roughly 10 minutes away from downtown in the Eastern Side of Birmingham. And before you go, make sure you check out a Ruffner Mountain trail map.
- Location: Overlook Trail, Birmingham, AL 35206
- Distance from Rise Red Mountain: 13.5 miles
- Website
3. Downtown Birmingham, Railroad Park

Sometimes the best view is right in the middle of downtown. Railroad Park, Birmingham’s 19-acre green space, offers a unique perspective of the city skyline reflected across its ponds and walking trails. It’s the perfect spot for a picnic, jog or sunset photo session.
Plus—it won’t be too long before the trees at Railroad Park start to change into their fall colors.
- Location: Railroad Park, Birmingham, AL 35233
- Distance from Rise Red Mountain: 4.3 miles
- Website
4. Peavine Falls at Oak Mountain State Park

Looking for a nature escape? Head south to Oak Mountain State Park, where Peavine Falls awaits. This 65-foot waterfall is surrounded by miles of trails and beautiful mountain overlooks. Visit in the fall to catch the colorful leaves, or in the summer to cool off after a hike.
Pro tip: Bring your camera—this waterfall view is perfect for photos.
- Location: 200 Terrace Dr, Pelham, AL 35124
- Distance from Rise Red Mountain: 13.6 miles
- Website
5. Rise Red Mountain Views


Last but not least, the best views might just be the ones you wake up to every day. Perched at the top of scenic Red Mountain, Rise Red Mountain offers sweeping 360-degree views of Birmingham that truly set it apart. Whether you’re sipping coffee on your balcony, walking the Vulcan Trail right outside your door or enjoying the city lights at night, the views here are hard to beat.
But it’s not just about the views—Rise Red Mountain pairs modern apartments with unbeatable amenities. Think resort-style pool, pet-friendly spaces, fitness center and a location that puts you close to Birmingham’s favorite neighborhoods, restaurants and entertainment spots.
- Location: Rise Red Mountain | 1010 Beacon Pkwy E, Birmingham, AL 35209
- Website | Instagram | Facebook
Plus—they are offering a limited-time exclusive deal: 2 months free rent OR half off rent through January.
Schedule your tour today and see why Rise Red Mountain truly has some of the best views in Birmingham.
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