As you leave the airport behind, and hit the open road you’ll a sense of industrial history of the city as the scenery offers a diverse visual experience, blending urban landscapes with green natural beauty. As you head toward downtown Birmingham, the city's skyline comes into view, dominated by notable landmarks such as the Regions-Harbert Plaza and Wells Fargo Tower, both gleaming in the sunlight. This transition from airport to cityscape reveals Birmingham’s unique blend of old and new architecture, including historical brick buildings interspersed with modern glass and steel structures. Driving through the city, you might pass neighbourhoods like Avondale, known for its trendy cafes, craft breweries, and restored historic homes. Here, murals and street art add pops of colour, reflecting Birmingham’s growing arts scene. You'll notice important landmarks famous throughout the whole of the United State of America, such as the 16th Street Baptist Church and the Civil Rights Institute, which stand as powerful reminders of the city's pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement. These areas are surrounded by leafy streets and inviting public spaces. Head south from here and the view shifts to a more verdant setting and you’ll catch glimpses of rolling hills and wooded trails, as well as stunning vistas of the city from elevated points along Red Mountain. Venturing beyond the city centre, you'll encounter charming suburbs like Homewood and Mountain Brook, where tree-lined streets, upscale boutiques, and quaint neighbourhoods create a picturesque atmosphere. To the west, Moss Rock Preserve is a haven for nature lovers, featuring waterfalls, boulder fields, and hiking trails. Alternatively, a drive east to Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve reveals a serene landscape of forested hills and wildlife. There are remnants of Birmingham's industrial past in pockets of the outer fringes of the city, including old steel mills and rail yards, some repurposed into cultural spaces or left as poignant historical landmarks, backdropped by green Alabama scenery.

From compact cars for city driving to larger SUVs for trips into the scenic countryside, there’s something to suit every travel need. Whether you're visiting for a business conference, attending a cultural event, or exploring Alabama's natural beauty, a rental car gives you the freedom to navigate the city and its surroundings on your own schedule. Birmingham is a city with a rich history, and a rental car allows you to easily explore its many historic, cultural, and scenic attractions. The Vulcan Park and Museum (15-minute drive) is home to the world's largest cast-iron statue of Vulcan, the Roman god of fire and forge. The park offers stunning views of Birmingham, as well as an informative museum about the city’s industrial past. The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute (10-minute drive) is a must-see for history enthusiasts, as this museum and cultural centre offer a comprehensive look at the Civil Rights Movement in Birmingham and key figures like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Once one of the largest manufacturers of pig iron in the U.S., Sloss Furnaces is now a museum dedicated to Birmingham’s industrial history. The site also offers unique tours that explore the city’s industrial heritage and is just 10 minutes drive. Railroad Park (5-minute drive) is a beautiful green space located in the heart of downtown and has open lawns, walking trails, and ponds, it’s a great spot to unwind after a busy day. The 67-acre Birmingham Botanical Gardens (20-minute drive) is the perfect place to relish the State of Alabama’s natural beauty. The gardens feature a wide range of themed areas, including azalea, rose, and Japanese gardens, as well as a historic conservatory. A great family-friendly attraction, the McWane Science Center offers hands-on exhibits, an aquarium, and an IMAX theatre. It’s an interactive place to learn about science, technology, and the natural world.