Birmingham Travel Guide

Discover the top attractions, food and drink scene, best things to do, where to stay, and much more with our comprehensive travel guide to Birmingham in Michigan. Plan your next adventure with ease and make the most of your trip.


Birmingham, located in Oakland County, Michigan, is a charming and picturesque city that offers a delightful mix of attractions and activities. From world-class museums and historical sites to beautiful natural parks and trails, Birmingham has something for everyone. In this travel guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to plan your trip to Birmingham.

Introduction to Birmingham

Birmingham is often referred to as one of the wealthiest cities in the state of Michigan. It’s also considered a shopper’s paradise with over 300 upscale shops and boutiques located throughout the city. Visitors will appreciate its variety of dining options, entertainment venues, and cultural attractions.

List of Places to Visit in Birmingham

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Birmingham Historical Museum: This museum showcases Birmingham’s history through interpretive exhibits and collections.
  • Birmingham Masonic Temple: Known locally as the “Temple of Memories,” this historic site is one of the most significant landmarks in Birmingham.
  • Cranbrook Art Museum: This museum houses a collection of modern and contemporary art, with exhibitions from international artists.
  • The Village Players Theater: This innovative community theater showcases local talent and hosts a variety of stage productions throughout the year.

Natural Attractions of Birmingham: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Railroad Park: This park is the perfect place to relax and take in the beautiful scenery. It has a playground, a large grassy area, and a picnic pavilion.
  • Booth Park: This park is a favorite for families, with its large playground, picnic areas, and a large pond that’s perfect for feeding ducks.
  • Oakland Hills Country Club: A world-class golf course that’s hosted many major championships, this is a great place to play around or relax and watch the game.
  • Birmingham Botanical Gardens: This garden is a 15-acre, multi-purpose facility that is home to numerous flower beds and trails, making it the perfect place for a peaceful walk.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Birmingham

  • Rouge River Gateway Trail: A beautiful trail that’s perfect for hiking and biking. It follows the Rouge River and passes through several parks, each with its unique character.
  • Bloomer Park Trails: A network of trails located in Bloomer Park. With over eight miles to explore, this trail offers scenic views, river access, and is suitable for all fitness levels.

Best Things to Do in Birmingham: Activities and Tours

  • Shop at the Birmingham Farmers Market: Open every Sunday morning from May through November, the market is the perfect place to shop for fresh produce, artisanal goods, and crafts.
  • Go on a Pedal Pub Tour: See the sights while enjoying a cold brew on a fun, pedal-powered pub crawl.
  • Take a Walking Tour of Birmingham: A great way to explore the city and learn about its history.
  • Go Antiquing: Purchasing a priceless item at one of Birmingham’s antique shops.

Week-Long Itinerary for Birmingham

Day 1-2: Explore Downtown Birmingham, including shopping and dining. Visit The Village Players Theater.

Day 3: Take a trip to the Birmingham Botanical Gardens and enjoy the flowers, nature, and fresh air.

Day 4-5: Hiking and Biking Trails at Rouge River Gateway and Bloomer Parks

Day 6: Take an informative walking tour of Birmingham

Day 7: End your trip with a visit to the Farmer’s Market, antiquing, and a pedal pub tour.

Food and Drink Scene of Birmingham

Must-Try Dishes

  • Celeriac Soup: A smooth and creamy soup made with celeriac and topped with diced apple and black truffle.
  • Peking Duck: Thinly-sliced duck served with a flavorful dipping sauce.
  • Filet Mignon: An exquisitely prepared classic steak cooked to perfection.

Local Beverages

  • Anchor Steam Beer: This beer is made in San Francisco, but it’s a favorite in Birmingham.
  • Michigan Wines: Michigan is home to numerous wineries, and Michigan’s wines are some of the best in the country.

Where to Sleep in Birmingham: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Townsend Hotel: A luxurious hotel centrally located in Birmingham with a classic European design.
  • Embassy Suites by Hilton Detroit Troy Auburn Hills: A budget-friendly option that’s perfect for families and business travellers.
  • Royal Park Hotel: A high-end hotel located along the banks of the picturesque Paint Creek.

What to Buy in Birmingham: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Antiques and Collectibles: Birmingham has numerous antique shops with a wide variety of unique items.
  • Clothing and Accessories: Known for its fashionable boutiques and shops, Birmingham is the perfect place to find stylish clothing and accessories.

Local Culture and Customs of Birmingham

  • In Birmingham, a firm handshake and eye contact are standard when greeting someone.
  • Dressing up for dinner and other evening activities is considered common practice.

Best Time to Visit Birmingham

The best time to visit Birmingham would be during the summer when the weather is warm and the city is teeming with life.

Do’s and Don’ts of Birmingham

Do:

  • Explore Downtown Birmingham’s array of shops, cafes, and theaters.
  • Visit the Birmingham Masonic Temple to see its unique architectural style.

Don’t:

  • Don’t miss out on the chance to try Peking duck at the local eateries. It is a culinary delight.
  • Don’t litter when enjoying the local natural parks and trails.

Safety and Health

Safety in Birmingham

Birmingham is a safe city, with low crime rates and an active police presence.

Health in Birmingham

Birmingham has a range of quality healthcare facilities, but it is always advisable for travelers to have health insurance when traveling.

Getting to Birmingham: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Birmingham

The nearest airport to Birmingham is the Detroit International Airport, located a short drive away.

Bus Stations Near Birmingham

The Greyhound Bus Station is located about 20 minutes away in downtown Detroit.

Other Options

The Detroit People Mover is a great, affordable transportation option for getting around downtown.

How to Get Around in Birmingham

Birmingham is a small city that can easily be navigated on foot or bike, but car rentals and taxis are also available.

Where to Go Next from Birmingham: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Detroit: Detroit is just a short drive away, and it has a variety of cultural and historical attractions, including the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, and the Motown Museum.
  • Ann Arbor: This vibrant college town is located about an hour away and boasts a wide array of art galleries, restaurants, breweries, and museums.

Conclusion

Birmingham is a wonderful travel destination that offers a mix of beautiful scenery, cultural attractions, and fun activities. Whether you’re here for a week or just a few days, this guide will help you make the most of your trip and enjoy all that Birmingham has to offer.

Downtown Birmingham Downtown Birmingham