Activity Overview
Come to Sloss Furnaces for a glimpse of history from the industrial era. Birmingham became the main industrial center of the South, thanks to the railroading, iron, and steel industries. Sloss Furnaces is a major contributor to Birmingham's foundation as a city. Built in 1881, Sloss Furnaces sold tons of iron throughout the years until 1971. Due to its significance to America's rise during the industrial era, the place was named as a National Historic Landmark. Sloss Furnaces now serves as a museum of old furnaces and an events place for conferences, concerts, and exhibits.
Things to Do
- Bring the family on a weekend if you wish to take a guided tour of the place. Guided tours are held at 1PM, 2PM, and 3PM and lasts approximately an hour. Self-guided tours are allowed anytime during the operation hours. For self-guided tours, don't forget to visit the Gift Shop to watch a short film and get a brochure and map. Most areas are open to the public so take the time to explore the machine rooms, structures, basement, and water tunnels.
- Learn about metal arts and attend workshops and exhibits. Visit the events page for more details about programs such as creative welding and blacksmithing.
- Drop by during Halloween. The place transforms as a giant, haunted place which makes for a fun and eerie Halloween activity.
Sloss Furnaces Insider Tips
- Admission is free.
- Note that the tunnels and towers are old and rusty so take caution when touring the complex.
Fun games for the whole family
Making science into family fun
Giving the little ones a laugh
Fun, creative activities
Exercise for the mind
Entertainment for the whole family
Great fun when you're stuck at home