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Top 24 Hotels Near Birmingham Zoo
2630 Cahaba Rd Birmingham, AL 35223
Grand Bohemian Mountain Brook Autograph Collection
From Grand Bohemian Mountain Brook Autograph Collection, the restful walk to Birmingham Zoo is a core benefit to stay active before the day begins.
In Autograph Collection spaces, seating clusters, bold finishes, and local décor create hubs for comfort and casual interaction. Each guest room highlights blackout curtains, premium bedding, and climate control, helping ensure comfort across every visit. In the meeting facilities, ergonomic seating, AV equipment, and flexible layouts support professional gatherings with convenience.
Guests enjoy outdoor pools, rooftop terraces, dining venues, and business spaces, highlighting both social connection and productivity.
Hampton Inn Birmingham / Mountain Brook
From Hampton Inn Birmingham / Mountain Brook, Birmingham Zoo is a brief ride, a feature that frames the stay with an initial sense of ease.
Hampton Inn lobby coffee stations offer reliable access to refreshments, supporting guest comfort consistently during arrival or downtime. Each suite provides ergonomic desks, Wi-Fi access, and multiple charging hubs, helping travelers stay productive in reliable work settings. Fitness facilities with cardio machines, resistance stations, and mats keep routines steady, letting travelers sustain health easily on the road.
Fitness studios, complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, outdoor pools, and laundry services support everyday balance for both leisure and business.
Embassy Suites Hotel Birmingham
Birmingham Zoo is a brief ride from Embassy Suites Hotel Birmingham, a setup that ensures travel plans are always straightforward.
Complimentary breakfasts at Embassy Suites with cooked-to-order selections provide reliable nourishment that helps mornings begin with balance and ease. All guest rooms provide televisions, streaming access, and blackout curtains, blending entertainment ease with environments made for rest. Breakfast spaces with fresh options and attentive service offer clarity at day’s start, ensuring mornings begin with consistency.
Valet parking, complimentary breakfast, business centers, outdoor pools, and Wi-Fi combine to deliver ease and flexibility for travelers.
Aloft Birmingham Soho Square
The hotel's spot an easy drive from Birmingham Zoo gives Aloft Birmingham Soho Square guests a easy option for their daily commute.
Aloft greets arrivals with vibrant lobby spaces featuring colorful décor and lounge seating, creating a first impression full of energy and style. Suites provide ergonomic chairs, Wi-Fi access, and charging stations, enabling travelers to keep routines predictable during their hotel stays. Re:fuel counters provide meals, drinks, and packaged snacks around the clock, supporting varied schedules with reliable convenience daily.
Complimentary Wi-Fi, Re:charge cardio gear, self-parking, and 24/7 Market access provide reliable convenience that supports dependable comfort.
Valley Hotel Homewood Birmingham Curio Collection by Hilton
The hotel's location is a key link to Birmingham Zoo, which is an easy drive away, contributing to a well-planned visit.
Curio greets guests with local snack bites on arrival, underscoring attention to detail while reinforcing boutique hospitality character. Suites highlight curated local décor, premium bedding, and upgraded bath fixtures, giving guests a blend of style and rest. Restaurants highlight chef-prepared specials, fresh ingredients, and attentive service, making dining experiences convenient and unique.
Valet service, breakfast buffets, Wi-Fi access, fitness areas, and pet-friendly policies create ease across both business and leisure.
Courtyard by Marriott Birmingham Homewood
When your visit to Birmingham is anchored by Birmingham Zoo, Courtyard by Marriott Birmingham Homewood's location a short drive away allows for a seamless daily plan.
In Courtyard arrivals, clear reception signage and concierge support simplify orientation and provide guests with immediate clarity. Suites provide walk-in showers, stocked bath amenities, and bright lighting, refreshing travelers with consistent and reliable comfort. Guests using the fitness room encounter ellipticals, bikes, and mats, dependable amenities that keep wellness routines intact daily.
With 24/7 markets, fitness centers, pet-friendly policies, and breakfast, guests find practical amenities that simplify extended stays.
Hassinger Daniels Mansion Bed and Breakfast
The hotel's spot a straightforward drive from Birmingham Zoo gives Hassinger Daniels Mansion Bed and Breakfast guests a direct way to engage with their surroundings.
Guests at Hassinger Daniels Mansion Bed and Breakfast may encounter eclectic décor, complimentary lobby coffee, and boutique-style reception experiences. Guest rooms often showcase refined décor, premium linens, and boutique bathrooms that support a polished and stylish impression. Amenities may feature curated cocktail bars, artisanal cafés, and eclectic lounges that contribute to a creative boutique retreat.
Guests may enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, yoga mats, and bike rentals, balancing wellness with boutique travel ease.
Hotel Indigo Birmingham Five Points S - UAB by IHG
For a trip to Birmingham, Hotel Indigo Birmingham Five Points S - UAB by IHG's location a quick drive from Birmingham Zoo is an essential part of its convenience.
Market counters inside Hotel Indigo provide snacks, drinks, and travel items, helping guests access essentials without leaving the hotel. Guest rooms contain flat-screen HDTVs, bedside outlets, and coffee makers, balancing entertainment ease with daily conveniences. Breakfast areas serving hot dishes, cereals, and coffee provide day-start clarity, giving guests dependable routines each morning.
Free Wi-Fi, breakfast choices, and laundry align with pet accommodations and fitness, keeping longer stays convenient and smooth.
Homewood Suites by Hilton Birmingham Downtown Near UAB
The hotel's spot an easy drive from Birmingham Zoo gives Homewood Suites by Hilton Birmingham Downtown Near UAB guests options in how they plan their local travel.
Reception signage and clear sightlines at Homewood Suites ensure travelers can orient easily, avoiding confusion during arrival steps. Guest rooms feature climate control, USB charging, and streaming TVs, allowing guests to stay comfortable and entertained while traveling. At the laundry facilities, washers, dryers, and detergent stations allow guests to manage daily needs conveniently on extended visits.
Guests benefit from Wi-Fi, parking services, hot breakfast, and fitness centers, helping travel remain simple and worry-free daily.
Residence Inn by Marriott Birmingham Downtown at UAB
This useful drive to Birmingham Zoo from Residence Inn by Marriott Birmingham Downtown at UAB is a defining component, since it ensures a visit free of traffic concerns.
Open lobby layouts with natural light at Residence Inn create orientation clarity that reduces confusion and fosters calm arrival impressions. Each suite provides vanities, mirrors, and premium toiletries, supporting daily refreshment routines with convenience and care. Indoor pools paired with deck seating, spa tubs, and towel service provide versatile areas where relaxation and activity balance easily.
Outdoor pools, concierge services, EV charging, free Wi-Fi, and breakfast buffets ensure flexibility that supports varied travel purposes.
Hilton Birmingham Downtown at UAB
From Hilton Birmingham Downtown at UAB, the minimal-fuss trip to Birmingham Zoo removes travel anxiety to keep things simple before the stay unfolds.
Guests visiting Hilton encounter polished marble floors, chandeliers, and bright finishes, producing reliable first impressions daily. Guest rooms include Wi-Fi, smart TVs, and bedside charging stations, supporting entertainment and connectivity during every stay. Guests at the outdoor pool enjoy loungers, fresh towels, and shaded seating, creating dependable spaces for relaxation and recharge.
Amenities include free breakfast, parking, Wi-Fi, and business centers, giving travelers confidence that routines will stay consistent.
Courtyard by Marriott Birmingham Downtown at UAB
Birmingham Zoo is a simple drive from Courtyard by Marriott Birmingham Downtown at UAB, a setup that ensures the commute itself is a pleasant one.
Courtyard lobbies feature modular furniture, bold lighting, and reception visibility, cues that help guests feel comfortable and secure. Each guest room includes ergonomic desks, strong Wi-Fi, and charging hubs, helping professionals remain productive during hotel stays. At the meeting spaces, ergonomic seating, projectors, and AV support provide convenience and productivity for all types of events.
Amenities include indoor pools, valet parking, meeting rooms, and Wi-Fi, ensuring balanced routines for both business and leisure.
SpringHill Suites Birmingham Downtown at UAB
For those traveling by car, SpringHill Suites Birmingham Downtown at UAB is a straightforward drive from Birmingham Zoo, ensuring a simple and predictable commute.
Reception zones paired with comfortable group seating at SpringHill Suites allow families to coordinate easily before heading into their suites. Every suite contains microwaves, fridges, and coffee machines, giving travelers control over meals and beverages to simplify extended stays. The lobby lounge offers flexible seating, open sightlines, and communal tables, serving as a gathering place that supports both work and leisure.
Amenities such as a 24/7 Market, indoor pool, breakfast service, and self-parking give families and professionals balanced daily convenience.
The Painted Lady
When visiting Birmingham Zoo in Birmingham, the drive from The Painted Lady is a simple drive, allowing for a quick return to the hotel for rest.
Arrivals at The Painted Lady may feature modest lobby furnishings, complimentary parking, and vending services for budget-friendly arrivals. Accommodations may feature compact layouts, modest seating, and Wi-Fi, giving guests consistency and balance throughout their visit. Shared spaces often highlight vending areas, guest laundries, and compact seating zones that reflect straightforward guest routines.
A stay often presents Wi-Fi, modest breakfast, vending machines, and laundry facilities, maintaining practical convenience for guests.
Hilton Garden Inn Downtown Birmingham
Guests at Hilton Garden Inn Downtown Birmingham can enjoy the easy drive to Birmingham Zoo as a defining perk of their stay.
Community tables in Hilton Garden Inn lobbies act as shared hubs, helping groups organize their plans and coordinate with ease. Guest rooms include microwaves, refrigerators, and coffee makers, letting guests prepare snacks and drinks with convenient in-room appliances. Breakfast rooms with buffets, fresh fruit, and self-serve stations create clarity, ensuring mornings begin with dependable hospitality.
Complimentary breakfast, valet parking, indoor pools, business lounges, and Wi-Fi deliver ease and efficiency across extended stays.
Home2 Suites by Hilton Birmingham Downtown
Within Birmingham, Home2 Suites by Hilton Birmingham Downtown is a quick drive from Birmingham Zoo, a fact that lets the hotel to serve as a convenient hub.
Upon arrival, Home2 Suites ensures clear signage directs guests toward reception, reducing confusion and maintaining a smooth process. Suites incorporate living rooms, dining tables, and ergonomic seating, creating multi-purpose zones for work, meals, and leisure. In the breakfast area, waffles, cereals, and fruit are offered, giving travelers a dependable start that helps keep routines consistent.
Guests access laundry areas, breakfast service, pet-friendly rooms, and Wi-Fi, supporting longer visits with consistent reliability.
John Hand Club Hotel
This easy commute to Birmingham Zoo enables John Hand Club Hotel to be a peaceful yet connected base before the on-site experience.
John Hand Club Hotel often greets guests with warm staff welcomes, artisanal décor, and complimentary refreshments for a boutique entry. Guest rooms may feature eclectic décor, curated minibars, and plush bedding that emphasize a personalized and boutique-oriented retreat. Shared spaces often highlight small dining venues, curated art, and intimate seating areas that reflect boutique orientation.
A stay often provides Wi-Fi, boutique breakfast, laundry service, and pet-friendly allowances, creating boutique balance for travelers.
The Kelly Birmingham Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Birmingham Zoo is a quick drive from The Kelly Birmingham Tapestry Collection by Hilton, a convenience that makes the hotel a sensible and well-placed choice.
Seating clusters with sofas and tables inside Tapestry lobbies create regrouping zones that help families pause comfortably after travel. Guest rooms include digital key access and free high-speed Wi-Fi, giving travelers seamless control and reliable connectivity throughout the stay. Shared art displays in shared corridors provide decorative storytelling that enriches the journey between spaces.
Dining outlets, breakfast buffets, rooftop pools, complimentary Wi-Fi, and meeting facilities keep stays smooth and reliable.
Elyton Hotel Autograph Collection by Marriott
For guests in Birmingham, Elyton Hotel Autograph Collection by Marriott is an easy drive from Birmingham Zoo, a location that supports an efficient and enjoyable itinerary.
Autograph Collection greets loyalty travelers with recognition at reception, a gesture that reinforces consistency and attentiveness. Every suite includes hardwood finishes, curated art, and stocked amenities, combining cultural identity with practical convenience. In the restaurant, seasonal menus, curated wines, and attentive service ensure guests enjoy refined dining experiences tied to local culture.
With fitness studios, cultural lounges, Wi-Fi, and valet parking, travelers experience balance across wellness, work, and leisure.
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Birmingham Downtown
From Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Birmingham Downtown, Birmingham Zoo is a quick drive, a choice that makes the entire area feel more accessible.
Fairfield Inn situates a compact market and grab-and-go cases near the desk, so late arrivals can secure snacks without wandering the property. Each suite highlights ergonomic seating, strong Wi-Fi, and ample desk space, giving professionals efficient setups to remain effective daily. Breakfast spaces provide eggs, fruit, and pastries alongside coffee, establishing dependable rhythms and clarity for each guest morning.
Guests enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, indoor pool access, breakfast service, and business center tools, ensuring productive and balanced routines.
Redmont Hotel Birmingham Curio Collection by Hilton
Birmingham Zoo is an easy drive from Redmont Hotel Birmingham Curio Collection by Hilton, a plan that ensures travel logistics are always straightforward.
When entering Curio, mobile key check-in pairs with curated lighting, ensuring both convenience and orientation clarity on arrival. Guest rooms combine blackout curtains, plush mattresses, and climate control, helping ensure restorative rest every night. The outdoor pool offers loungers, shaded seating, and towel service, providing comfort for both leisure and family-oriented travelers.
Complimentary internet, dining outlets, outdoor pools, gyms, and event halls simplify stays by offering variety and daily reliability.
Kings Inn Civic Center UAB
For a trip to Birmingham, Kings Inn Civic Center UAB's location a quick drive from Birmingham Zoo is a foundational component of the guest journey.
Kings Inn Civic Center UAB often highlights compact front-desk setups, parking close to entry points, and vending machines to support quick check-in. Rooms often provide climate control, curated décor, and plush bedding, maintaining a reliable foundation for overnight guest comfort. Facilities typically provide breakfast areas, laundry access, and vending corners that support clear and simple travel experiences.
Accommodations may include Wi-Fi, guest laundry, breakfast spaces, and parking, helping visitors sustain reliable balance across trips.
Hampton Inn & Suites Birmingham-Downtown-Tutwiler
Within Birmingham, Hampton Inn & Suites Birmingham-Downtown-Tutwiler is a short drive from Birmingham Zoo, which helps the hotel to feel both convenient and accessible.
Hydration stations in Hampton Inn lobbies reflect attentiveness, refreshing travelers while easing the transition from transit to rest. Every guest room features microwaves, refrigerators, and coffee makers, letting guests enjoy snacks and beverages with in-room convenience. Breakfast areas with hot buffets, cereal stations, and fresh fruit at Hampton Inn provide clarity, ensuring mornings start with dependable variety.
Complimentary Wi-Fi, hot breakfast, indoor pools, fitness centers, and business areas provide dependable routines that simplify daily travel.
Travel Inn
In Birmingham, Travel Inn provides a location that is a short drive from Birmingham Zoo, letting the stay begin on a positive and convenient note.
At Travel Inn, arrivals may present straightforward reception, basic lobby seating, and nearby parking aimed at travel consistency. Each guest room may include hardwood finishes, compact seating, and rainfall showers, creating a practical yet stylish stay setting. Shared spaces may include modest lobbies, vending machines, and compact business corners that help reinforce functional routines.
A visit may highlight Wi-Fi, vending access, modest breakfast, and guest laundries, giving travelers consistent routines during stays.
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Birmingham Zoo Local Area Guide
Welcome to the Birmingham Zoo, a vibrant oasis located in the heart of Alabama's largest city. This guide is designed for families, school groups, and casual visitors planning a day of exploration and discovery. We’ll help you navigate your visit, understand the best times to arrive, discover nearby attractions, and find convenient dining options. Get ready to learn about the diverse animal collection and the surrounding attractions that make a trip to the zoo a memorable experience.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – Birmingham Zoo (Birmingham, AL)
The Birmingham Zoo is strategically situated within Birmingham's established Southside district, adjacent to the renowned Birmingham Botanical Gardens and Vulcan Park & Museum. This prime location offers easy access from major thoroughfares like I-65 and U.S. Route 31 (280). Travelers arriving by air will find Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM) approximately a 15-20 minute drive to the east, depending on traffic. For those driving, ample parking is available directly at the zoo, though it can fill up quickly during peak seasons and special events. Public transportation options are available via Birmingham-Uber/Lyft, which are popular choices for visitors seeking direct access without parking concerns. Plan your arrival for mid-morning on weekdays to avoid the largest crowds, or consider arriving right at opening on weekends for the best parking and unhurried entry.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near Birmingham Zoo
Hotel options are clustered in several areas around Birmingham, with many convenient choices located downtown, a short drive (10-15 minutes) from the zoo, and in the Homewood/Uptown districts. While many visitors opt for hotels closer to downtown business and entertainment areas, staying in hotels nearer to the zoo can provide a more relaxed morning arrival. The zoo itself is not typically a destination that causes massive hotel demand spikes, making it easier to find lodging compared to major sporting events or conventions. However, booking in advance is always recommended, especially during spring break, summer holidays, and around large local festivals. When searching, utilize map filters to locate accommodations within a few miles of the zoo, focusing on areas near U.S. Route 280 or the Southside for optimal access.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM) is about a 15-20 minute drive away.
- Arrive mid-morning on weekdays or at opening on weekends for best parking and fewer crowds.
- The adjacent Birmingham Botanical Gardens offers a peaceful, walkable retreat after the zoo.
- Indoor family fun is available at the McWane Science Center, a short drive away.
- The zoo’s own café or nearby Southside eateries are great spots for a casual regroup.
Event Day Flow
Check-In & Warm-Up
Plan to arrive shortly after opening or in the mid-morning to maximize your day and find convenient parking. Entry is straightforward at the main gate, where you can grab a map or use the zoo’s mobile app to plan your route. Consider visiting more popular exhibits, like the Predators of Asia or the African Savanna, earlier in the day before crowds build. Have your snacks and water bottles ready if you plan to bring your own, as the zoo allows them. Familiarize yourself with the zoo map upon entry to get a lay of the land and prioritize exhibits for your group.
Mid-Day Regroup
Around midday, the zoo can become quite busy, offering a great opportunity for a planned break. Head to the zoo's café for a casual lunch, or find a shaded picnic spot if you’ve brought your own provisions. This is also a good time to visit indoor exhibits, such as the Alabama Wilds, which offer a respite from the sun and crowds. Check the daily schedule for animal feeding demonstrations or keeper talks, which provide fascinating insights and can help structure your afternoon. Hydrate well during this period, as Birmingham summers can be quite warm and humid.
Wrap-Up & Departure
As the afternoon progresses, consider revisiting any favorite exhibits or exploring areas you may have missed. The zoo typically begins to wind down an hour or two before closing, so use this time for a final walk-through. For those heading out, be mindful that parking lots can experience some congestion immediately at closing time. Consider lingering slightly longer or departing a few minutes before the official closing to ease your exit. For a relaxed departure, consider a brief stop at the adjacent Botanical Gardens for a peaceful transition back to your accommodation or next destination.
Things to Do Near Birmingham Zoo
Walkable
Birmingham Botanical Gardens
Step directly from the zoo into a world of horticultural beauty at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Spanning 30 acres, these gardens offer a serene escape with diverse themed gardens, including a Japanese garden, a rose garden, and a children's therapy garden. It's the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, a quiet moment of reflection, or an educational outing focusing on plant life. Paved paths make it accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, and ample shaded areas provide comfortable spots to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings. The gardens are a wonderful complement to a zoo visit, offering a different kind of exploration.
Botanical Gardens · On siteVulcan Park & Museum
Dominating Birmingham's skyline, Vulcan Park & Museum offers panoramic views of the city from atop Red Mountain. The park features a museum dedicated to Birmingham's industrial history, highlighted by the impressive statue of Vulcan, the Roman god of fire and metalwork. Visitors can ascend to the observation deck for breathtaking vistas, learn about the city's past, and explore the surrounding grounds. It's a fantastic spot for photography and gaining a historical perspective on the region. The short drive or a moderate walk from the zoo makes it an easily accessible attraction for those looking to combine nature with history.
5224 Valley Hill Dr SW · 1.1 mi5–15 Minutes Away
McWane Science Center
Located in downtown Birmingham, the McWane Science Center is an engaging destination for all ages, especially families with children. This interactive science museum features a variety of exhibits covering topics from dinosaurs and the human body to physics and the environment. With a large IMAX dome theater and numerous hands-on displays, McWane offers hours of educational fun. It’s an ideal choice for a rainy day or as an alternative way to explore and learn, providing a different educational experience compared to the zoo’s focus on wildlife.
200 19th St N · 2.8 miSloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark
Step back in time at Sloss Furnaces, a former coal-iron producing facility that is now a unique museum and National Historic Landmark. This industrial site offers a fascinating glimpse into Birmingham's past as a major steel producer. Guided tours are available, providing in-depth knowledge about the history and operation of the furnaces. The stark, imposing structures create a memorable atmosphere, and the interpretive displays tell the story of the workers and the industry that shaped the city. It's a powerful educational experience for history buffs and curious minds alike.
201 16th Ave S · 2.7 miBeyond the Event: Beyond the immediate vicinity of the zoo and its adjacent attractions, Birmingham offers a rich tapestry of cultural institutions, historic sites, and vibrant entertainment districts. Consider exploring the civil rights history at the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, enjoying a performance at the Alabama Theatre, or discovering the local culinary scene in areas like Avondale. The city’s diverse offerings ensure there’s something to interest every visitor, from art and history enthusiasts to foodies and families.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near Birmingham Zoo
Inside & Adjacent
Zoo Cafe
Conveniently located within the Birmingham Zoo, the Zoo Cafe offers a range of classic, family-friendly fare. Visitors can find options like burgers, chicken tenders, sandwiches, and salads, perfect for a quick and easy meal during your visit. The cafe provides indoor seating, making it a comfortable spot to relax and refuel while surrounded by the zoo's atmosphere. It's an ideal choice for families looking to keep their energy levels up without leaving the zoo grounds, allowing for minimal disruption to your animal-viewing schedule.
Zoo Grounds · On siteShady Grove
Just a stone's throw from the zoo entrance, Shady Grove offers a casual and welcoming dining experience with a focus on Southern comfort food. The menu features a variety of familiar dishes, including sandwiches, salads, and hearty entrees, often with a local twist. It's a popular spot for families and groups looking for a relaxed meal after a visit to the zoo or botanical gardens. The laid-back atmosphere and accessible location make it a convenient choice for a satisfying meal without a long drive.
2637 Cahaba Rd · 0.3 miNearby Gathering Spots
El Barrio
For those seeking vibrant Mexican cuisine, El Barrio is a popular choice located a short drive from the zoo in downtown Birmingham. Known for its creative tacos, extensive tequila selection, and lively atmosphere, it's a great place for groups to gather and enjoy flavorful dishes. The energetic setting and diverse menu make it suitable for both a casual lunch and a more festive dinner. It’s a good option if you’re looking to experience a bit of Birmingham’s lively dining scene after a day of exploring attractions.
2211 7th Ave S · 2.5 miSaw's Soul Kitchen
A beloved Birmingham institution, Saw's Soul Kitchen in the Avondale district serves up award-winning barbecue that’s a must-try for locals and visitors alike. Expect delicious pulled pork, ribs, and chicken, alongside classic Southern sides like mac and cheese and baked beans. The casual, no-frills atmosphere is perfect for enjoying a hearty meal. It’s a fantastic spot to grab a delicious and authentic taste of Alabama’s culinary heritage, a short drive from the zoo and other Southside attractions.
3058 4th Ave S · 3.0 miLocal & Elevated Picks
Perry's Steakhouse & Grille
For an upscale dining experience, Perry's Steakhouse & Grille offers prime steaks, fresh seafood, and an extensive wine list. Located a bit further out but easily accessible by car, this restaurant provides a more refined atmosphere suitable for special occasions or business dinners. The elegant ambiance, attentive service, and expertly prepared dishes make it a standout choice for those looking for a high-quality meal. It's a great option for celebrating a successful trip or enjoying a sophisticated evening out.
4 Perimeter Park S · 5.2 miChez Fonfon
Chez Fonfon, a charming French bistro in the Five Points South neighborhood, offers an authentic European dining experience. Known for its classic French dishes, delightful ambiance, and excellent wine selection, it’s a favorite among locals. The intimate setting and carefully crafted menu provide a sophisticated yet comfortable atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed lunch or an elegant dinner. This spot is ideal for visitors seeking a taste of refined international cuisine in Birmingham.
2007 11th Ave S · 3.5 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Weekday mornings are ideal for zoo visits to avoid larger school group and family crowds.
- The Birmingham Botanical Gardens shares a border with the zoo; consider combining visits to save time.
- Parking can fill quickly during spring break and summer holidays; arrive early or consider rideshare.
- Check the zoo's daily schedule for animal feeding times and keeper talks for an enriched experience.
- Birmingham’s humidity can be significant, especially in summer; carry water and plan for indoor breaks.
Weather & Seasons at Birmingham Zoo
- Winter: Winter in Birmingham is generally mild but can have cool to cold days, with average highs in the 50s and lows in the 30s. Visitors should pack layers, including jackets or sweaters, and comfortable walking shoes. Some animals might be less active, while others, especially those from cooler climates, may be more visible. Rain is common, so check the forecast and consider bringing an umbrella or raincoat.
- Spring & early summer: Spring brings warming temperatures, with averages ranging from the 60s to the 70s, making it a beautiful time for zoo visits. Early summer starts warm and becomes increasingly hot and humid, with highs often in the 80s and 90s. Light, breathable clothing is recommended. This is a popular time for school trips, so weekdays might be busier.
- Mid-summer: Mid-summer in Birmingham is characterized by significant heat and humidity, with daily temperatures frequently reaching the 90s and feeling even hotter. Visitors should prioritize hydration, wear light clothing, and take advantage of shaded areas and indoor exhibits. Early morning visits are highly recommended to avoid the peak heat of the afternoon. Sunscreen and hats are essential.
- Fall season: Fall offers a pleasant transition with cooling temperatures, typically ranging from the 70s in early fall to the 50s and 60s by late fall. This season is ideal for comfortable outdoor exploration, and the foliage can add to the scenic beauty of the zoo and surrounding gardens. It’s a great time for families and visitors seeking enjoyable weather for walking and sightseeing.
- Rain & snow: Rain is common throughout the year in Birmingham, particularly in spring and summer. Visitors should be prepared with rain gear. Snow is infrequent and typically light, usually occurring in winter months and melting quickly, but it can cause travel disruptions. On wet days, indoor exhibits and the zoo's café provide good alternatives for staying dry and entertained.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary animal focus: Diverse global wildlife and Alabama native species.
- Neighborhood: Southside, adjacent to botanical gardens and Vulcan Park.
- Nearest airport: Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM).
- Parking: On-site parking lot, can fill during peak times.
- Walkable district: Yes, with the Botanical Gardens directly adjacent.
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Conveniently located grocery stores along U.S. Route 280.
- Pharmacy: Several major pharmacies nearby on U.S. Route 280.
- Urgent care: Multiple urgent care facilities available on the Southside and in nearby suburbs.
- Downtime: Adjacent Botanical Gardens offers peaceful relaxation spots.
- Pro tip: Purchase tickets online in advance to save time at the entrance, especially on busy weekends.

