Things to Know: Vulcan Park & Museum
If you have ever driven through the city of Birmingham, Alabama, you have probably noticed the 56 foot tall iron statue of Vulcan. But did you know that you can actually take an elevator to a lookout tower and get an amazing view of the city? This is a place that is worth a visit no matter what the season is.
This post includes affiliate links.
Things to Know: Vulcan Park & Museum
The Museum & Observation Tower are open daily.
Though the museum and observation tower are open daily, it’s always best to check the website or call ahead as there are some holidays and special events that may close part of the park.
You can take the elevator to the top of the lookout tower or you can climb the original marble steps to the top.
The Museum
The museum helps you understand the history and industry of Birmingham as well as the progression of the Civil Rights and Sufferage Movement in the area.
Why Vulcan?
We have driven through Birmingham many times and always seen Vulcan from a distance but now we know more about this cast iron statue.
According to the website: Vulcan is the Roman god of fire and forge (a forge is a shop with a furnace where metal is heated and hammered out into useful items). City leaders wanted to advertise Birmingham and Alabama at the St. Louis World’s Fair and decided a statue of Vulcan would best highlight the area’s growing industrial abilities.
The view of Birmingham from the lookout tower is amazing but be aware that it could be windy and colder at the top than you expect!
There is a fee to Visit:
Daily admission tickets include access to park grounds, observation tower and museum. Make sure you ask for the AAA discount or senior/military rates when you buy your ticket.
About Vulcan
Vulcan is the world’s largest cast iron statue; made of 100,000 pounds of iron and 56 feet tall, he stands at the top of Red Mountain overlooking the city of Birmingham. But Vulcan is more than just a statue—Vulcan Park and Museum features spectacular views of Birmingham, an interactive comprehensive history museum that examines Vulcan and Birmingham’s story, a premier venue for private events and a beautiful public park for visitors and locals to enjoy.
Vulcan Park & Museum
1701 VALLEY VIEW DRIVE BIRMINGHAM, AL 35209
PHONE (205) 933-1409
Have you ever taken the elevator to the top of the Vulcan lookout?
Cool! I’d like to explore that one day.