NOTE: if you have serious acrophobia (fear of heights) do NOT go up to the top of the statue. The railing and metal mesh flooring will seem insubstantial. You can stare at the ground between and below your feet through the flooring material. If the elevator is out of service as it was on our visit, the climb up can be a challenge for those with mobility issues or if you’re out of shape. I had to stop a few times and there are no seats along the way. The climb down is easy. The railing is higher than the average 7 year old’s head. The small windows along the exterior of the statue pedestal are open and some could be problematic for active younger visitors prone to dangerous curiosity.

Ok with that out of the way.

You really should visit this gem of a park in the middle of Birmingham. It’s just a short drive from the interstate and you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the city.

The walk around the statue balcony is amazing and exhilarating. It is not for the faint of heart.

The small museum included with the price of access to the statue is worth your time. It covers the history of Birmingham, lots of info about the statue’s design and construction, and even touches on the region’s tough history of racial issues.

The restrooms are clean and the staff are friendly and helpful.

You should give yourself at least an hour or two to thoroughly enjoy the statue view, the museum, and grounds. But if you’re short on time you could do it in 30-45 min.

Tickets are about $6 or so per person for the statue and museum. Visiting just the grounds, gift shop, and restrooms are free.

They give kids a free visual scavenger hunt to encourage engagement.

Again there are many wonderful viewing areas of the city surrounding the park. But the best views by far are to be found atop the statue.

We will return.