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Railroad Park is an 8-block recreational public space in downtown Birmingham that celebrates the city's railroad culture both past and present. It borders active railroad lines that transverse the city from east to west, and has elevated vantage points for trainspotting.
A rail-trail travels the length of the park, past a lake, streams, wetlands, and grassy fields. Other features found within the park's 19 acres, include a skate park, playground, and overlooks for viewing the city's skyline.
Near its eastern end is the Rotary Trail, which is built on a former railroad bed along 1st Avenue South between 20th and 24th streets. Also known as the “1st Avenue Cut,” the half-mile rail-trail follows a submerged railroad line that dips 14 feet below street level. Near its end is a National Historic Landmark, the Sloss Furnaces, which serviced the city's iron-producing industry for nearly a century. Both trails are part of the larger Red Rock Trail System, a 750-mile system of multi-use trails across Jefferson County.
Street parking is available along the outer perimeter of Railroad Park (1600 1st Avenue South), along 1st Avenue South.
I love riding my bike around the park and in downtown Birmingham on the weekend. The park is green and right next to the active railroad. It’s an easy short ride but there are lots of folks enjoying the park.
Railroad park is an absolute favorite of mine for ease of trails and seeing city around the oasis of park. It winds around in several ways so not sure who came up with .4 miles. It’s not accurate.
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