Plan Your Birmingham STEM Trip

If you are planning a student group trip, chances are good that your district will require a STEM component. You may even be planning an exclusively STEM trip. If you’re not competing in a robotics competition, where do you begin searching for a destination that meets your requirements? Birmingham, Alabama is a great starting point! Rooted firmly in the 19th century steel industry and evolving into a city undergoing a renaissance, Birmingham has an extensive and varied offering of outstanding STEM-related attractions. Below are some highlights to consider as you plan your Birmingham STEM trip.

Birmingham STEM Highlights

Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark

The Sloss Blast Furnaces were a technological marvel when they opened in April 1882.  Today students can tour the site of this monument to the industrial revolution. They’ll learn how the furnace worked, the historical significance of the plant in Birmingham’s development, and what it was like to be a worker during production. There’s even an opportunity to make a piece of cast iron art!

Vulcan Park and Museum

Follow your visit to the Sloss Furnaces with a trip to the Vulcan Statue and Museum. Created by Giuseppe Morettti, the Vulcan depicts the Roman god of fire and forge and stands 56 feet tall. This cast iron statue reflects Birmingham’s steel and iron heritage and allows for spectacular views of Birmingham. The museum below is an interactive museum highlighting the history of both the city and the Vulcan.

The McWane Science Center

The McWane Science Center will quickly take your students from the 19th to the 21st century. Exhibits at this state-of-the-art center are designed to challenge, inspire and encourage interest in the sciences. Take in multiple levels of hands-on STEM activities perfect for kids of all ages!

Barber Vintage MotorSports Museum

Opened in 1995 by retired race car driver George Barber, this unrivaled collection of restored-to-racing condition motorcycles constitute the world’s largest motorcycle collection (more than 1400!). The bikes represent 200 manufacturers from approximately 20 countries. They were even part of a display at The Guggenheim. It’s an unusual and unique look at some pristine machinery!

Southern Museum of Flight

The Southern Museum of Flight is a regional gem dedicated to sharing the history of aviation in the south. Exhibits include civilian, military and experimental aircraft and memorabilia. There are more than 100 aircraft on display, as well as a tribute to the Tuskegee Airmen.

Birmingham Botanical Gardens

The word STEM often connotes thoughts of technology or robotics. The Birmingham Botanical Gardens will have you thinking outside the flower box! They offer fabulous educational programs and workshops that dig in to the science of horticulture. Admission is always free and the gardens are open year-round.  They also have the only public horticultural library in the U.S.

As you begin to plan your STEM adventures, keep Birmingham in mind for a one-of-a-kind trip. There’s so much to see and do. The kids will love the engaging attractions, history and southern hospitality. You’ll love that you’ve met your curricular requirements in one amazing city!

Your Trusted Student Trip Planner

Kaleidoscope Adventures, a leader in student travel, is ready to help plan your Birmingham STEM trip. More than 25 years of experience and a former teacher at the helm means KA is equipped to handle your every need with ease. Trust the experts at Kaleidoscope Adventures to make your class trip one your students will remember for years to come!

Inspiring STEM Student Travel