Need a laid-back Southern escape with industrial heritage and family fun? Head to Bessemer! Located just southwest of Birmingham, Bessemer blends historic sites, barbecue joints, and outdoor attractions with a welcoming small-town feel. Whether you're racing water slides, digging into ribs, or exploring local museums, Bessemer offers an authentic Alabama experience.
Bessemer, AL Highlights:
- For Adventurous Travelers: Splash and slide at Alabama Adventure & Splash Adventure – Ride roller coasters and cool off in water attractions perfect for summer fun.
- For History Buffs: Visit the Bessemer Hall of History Museum – Explore exhibits on steelmaking, railroads, and Bessemer’s industrial rise.
- For Shoppers: Browse antique treasures at Tannehill Trade Days – Held monthly at Tannehill Ironworks, with hundreds of vendors and handmade goods.
- For Couples: Enjoy a scenic walk at DeBardeleben Park – A peaceful downtown spot perfect for picnics and outdoor events.
- For Families: Explore Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park – Historic buildings, hiking trails, a working grist mill, and train rides make it ideal for kids.
Best Time to Visit Bessemer, AL
The best time to visit Bessemer is from March to May or September to November, when temperatures are mild and ideal for outdoor exploration. Summers are hot but great for water parks, while winter offers fewer crowds and a slower pace.
How to Get to Bessemer, AL
- If you are traveling by car: Bessemer is located along I-20/I-59 and I-459, about 20 minutes southwest of Birmingham.
- By Air: Fly into Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM), about 25 minutes away by car.
- By Train/Bus: Amtrak and Greyhound serve nearby Birmingham, with local transit or rental cars available to reach Bessemer.
Where to Stay in Bessemer, AL
- Hampton Inn Bessemer – Comfortable, family-friendly hotel with free breakfast and pool.
- Best Western Plus Bessemer Hotel & Suites – Convenient for travelers, with business amenities and free Wi-Fi.
- Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott – Clean and modern accommodations near shopping and dining.
Best Things to Do in Bessemer, AL
1. The Bessemer Hall of History Museum
Rating: ★★★★★
Location: Downtown Bessemer, Alabama – 1905 Alabama Ave
Recommended For: History buffs, families, educators, and visitors interested in local and civil rights history.
What I Love: ♥ “From MLK’s prison door to Hitler’s typewriter—this museum makes history unforgettable.”
- Step back in time through photographs, books, and rare artifacts chronicling Bessemer’s past.
- Marvel at a cell block door from MLK’s incarceration and an original WWII-era typewriter possibly used by Hitler.
- Explore an authentic boxcar exhibit and other engaging displays that bring history to life for all ages.
Price Range: $
Best time to visit: Weekdays or early weekends for a quiet, self-paced tour.
Local tips: Ask the staff for stories behind the lesser-known objects—they’re passionate and knowledgeable.
Distance: Located centrally in Bessemer, easy access from I-20/59.
Address: 1905 Alabama Ave, Bessemer, AL 35020, Phone: 205-426-1633
2. Doughboy Monument at DeBardeleben Park
Location: DeBardeleben Park, Bessemer, Alabama – 1623 2nd Ave N
Recommended For: History lovers, veterans, families, and those interested in World War I memorials.
What I Love: ♥ “A solemn salute to heroes—where bronze stands eternal for the fallen.”
- Admire the striking Doughboy statue, sculpted by E. M. Viquesney and first dedicated in 1922.
- Honor fallen soldiers by reading the engraved honor roll plaques listing those who gave their lives in service.
- Reflect on the monument’s rededication in 1999, preserving its meaning for future generations.
Price Range: Free
Best time to visit: Morning or late afternoon for peaceful reflection and better lighting for photos.
Local tips: Visit during Veterans Day or Memorial Day for community events and commemorations.
Distance: Central Bessemer, easily walkable from downtown attractions.
Address: 1623 2nd Ave N, Bessemer, AL 35020
3. Alabama Splash Adventure
Location: Bessemer, Alabama – 4599 Splash Adventure Pkwy
Recommended For: Families, thrill-seekers, and anyone looking to cool off with water rides or enjoy classic amusement park fun.
What I Love: ♥ “Where thrilling drops and cooling splashes create unforgettable summer memories.”
- Splash into fun with Neptune’s Plunge and the massive Kahuna wave pool.
- Soar to new heights on Upsurge, a five-story thrill ride for the brave.
- Relax on the lazy river with free life jackets and inner tubes provided.
- Enjoy free soft drinks, Wi-Fi, parking, and sunscreen—a value-packed experience for families.
Price Range: $$ – One entrance fee includes both the waterpark and amusement park.
Best time to visit: Weekdays in June and July for full operation and shorter wait times.
Local tips: Arrive early to grab shaded seating; bring water shoes for comfort between rides.
Distance: Just off I-20/I-59, minutes from downtown Bessemer.
Address: 4599 Splash Adventure Pkwy, Bessemer, AL 35022, Phone: 205-481-4750
4. Bessemer Civic Center
Location: Bessemer, Alabama – 1130 9th Ave SW
Recommended For: Visitors attending concerts, performances, or community events; groups planning private functions or large gatherings.
What I Love: ♥ “A versatile venue where art, entertainment, and community come together in style.”
- Experience live concerts, theater shows, and wrestling events on a full professional stage.
- Host your next celebration in the 13,000-square-foot main hall or one of four elegant meeting rooms.
- Explore the 4,000-square-foot mezzanine, ideal for receptions and special functions.
- Attend a variety of scheduled events year-round—from performances to expos and beyond.
Price Range: $$ – Rental and ticket prices vary by event and room size.
Best time to visit: Check the event calendar in advance for upcoming performances and public gatherings.
Local tips: Parking is plentiful; arrive early for popular shows to find optimal seating.
Distance: Centrally located in Bessemer, minutes from I-20/I-59 and downtown attractions.
Address: 1130 9th Ave SW, Bessemer, AL 35022, Phone: 205-424-7469
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
5. Red Mountain Park
Location: Birmingham, Alabama – 2011 Frankfurt Dr
Recommended For: Hikers, nature lovers, history enthusiasts, mountain bikers, dog owners, and families looking for outdoor adventure near the city.
What I Love: ♥ “A reclaimed mining site transformed into one of Alabama’s most inspiring urban green spaces.”
- Explore 15 miles of scenic trails winding through historic mining sites and wooded terrain.
- Visit unique features like the Rushing Rendezvous Treehouse and overlooks with views of downtown Birmingham.
- Bring your pup to Remy’s Dog Park, one of the best off-leash areas in the state.
- Ride mountain bikes along designated cycling trails across 1,500 acres of wilderness.
- Challenge your group with a team forging experience to build leadership and camaraderie.
Price Range: $ – Admission is free; some experiences may require advance booking and fees.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and colorful scenery. Early morning visits provide quiet trails and excellent light for photography.
Local tips: Wear sturdy shoes, bring water, and check the map before exploring—this park is vast and rugged. Dogs must be leashed outside the dog park.
Distance: Just 5 miles southwest of downtown Birmingham.
Address: 2011 Frankfurt Dr, Birmingham, AL 35211, Phone: 205-202-6043
6. Autobahn Indoor Speedway & Events
Location: Bessemer, Alabama – 5960 Greenwood Pkwy
Recommended For: Thrill-seekers, families, friends, and anyone who loves high-speed fun in a controlled indoor environment.
What I Love: ♥ “Feel the adrenaline rush as you race up to 50 mph on Alabama’s largest indoor go-kart track.”
- Race around a 53,000-square-foot indoor track—the largest in the state.
- Drive Italian electric pro-karts capable of hitting speeds up to 50 mph.
- Enjoy junior karts designed just for kids, so the whole family can participate.
- Visit year-round with indoor racing that’s unaffected by weather conditions.
- Walk in any time—no reservation needed to start the fun!
Price Range: $$ – Pay per race or purchase race packages. Helmet rental is included.
Best time to visit: Weekday afternoons are quieter for practice runs. Weekends offer a lively and competitive atmosphere.
Local tips: Closed-toe shoes are required. Check for group packages and birthday party options for extra value.
Distance: About 15 miles southwest of downtown Birmingham, just off I-459.
Address: 5960 Greenwood Pkwy, Bessemer, AL 35022, Phone: 205-235-6230
Where to Eat:
7. Bright Star Restaurant
Location: Bessemer, Alabama – 304 19th St N
Recommended For: Food lovers, history buffs, and anyone seeking authentic Greek-style Southern cuisine in a historic setting.
What I Love: ♥ “Step into a century-old dining tradition where Greek flavors meet Southern hospitality.”
- Dine at Alabama’s oldest family-owned restaurant, operating since 1907.
- Enjoy the Koikos family's legacy of excellent food and welcoming service.
- Savor daily specials made with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
- Try customer favorites like the award-winning seafood gumbo and Greek-style snapper.
- Experience expanded dining space that still retains its charming, old-world ambiance.
Price Range: $$ – Moderate pricing for generous portions of classic Greek-American fare.
Best time to visit: Weeknights offer shorter waits; weekends draw a local crowd for traditional favorites.
Local tips: Don’t miss the Bright Star’s Snapper—it’s a house specialty and a true Bessemer gem.
Distance: Located in downtown Bessemer, about 15 miles southwest of Birmingham.
Address: 304 19th St N, Bessemer, AL 35020, Phone: 205-426-1861
8. Bob Sykes Bar-B-Q
Location: Bessemer, Alabama – 1724 9th Ave N
Recommended For: BBQ lovers, road trip foodies, and anyone craving authentic Southern pit barbecue.
What I Love: ♥ “The smoky aroma, legendary sauce, and rich family tradition make every bite unforgettable.”
- Taste real Southern barbecue from a family-owned icon since 1957.
- Feast on slow-cooked pork, ribs, chicken filet, and hamburger steak.
- Experience the smoky flavor crafted through decades of technique and secret marinade.
- Appreciate the restaurant’s roots as a humble ice cream and burger stand.
- Join locals who claim no other BBQ compares once you've had Bob Sykes.
Price Range: $ – Affordable Southern barbecue with generous portions and rich flavor.
Best time to visit: Lunchtime for a classic crowd and fresh pit servings; weekends can get busy!
Local tips: Ask for extra sauce on the side—it’s famous for a reason. Don’t skip the ribs!
Distance: Located just minutes from downtown Bessemer, easily accessible from I-20/I-59.
Address: 1724 9th Ave N, Bessemer, AL 35020, Phone: 205-426-1400
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