6+ Hours at Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport - Header image

6+ Hours at Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport

Maeve Power
Spend your 6+ hour layover exploring the city or the surrounding area instead of sitting in the terminal. Check out these options for a longer layover at Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport.
Spend your 6+ hour layover exploring the city or the surrounding area instead of sitting in the terminal. Check out these options for a longer layover at Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport.

Head downtown

If you have a longer layover at BHM get out of the airport and head downtown. Downtown Birmingham is located just 5.3 miles from the airport. Whether you are an animal lover, a history buff or a foodie, Birmingham’s unique collection of tourist attractions and vibrant food and music scene will keep you busy for your entire layover. For more details on what to do during your layover at BHM, visit the Lonely Planet Guide to Birmingham.

Avoid downtown

For those that want to get out of the airport but don’t want to spend the day in the city, there are lots of hiking options available nearby. Ruffner Mountain is the closest hiking area (see the 3-6 Hour article for more details). As you have a bit more time head further south for more diverse hiking areas. Head for the Vulcan Walking Trail for an easy walk with impressive city views or the Homewood Forest Preserve for a peaceful hike through the wooded landscape.

Transport Options

Taxi: There is a 24 hour taxi service available at BHM. Taxis are located on the ground level directly outside the baggage claim area.Bus: The number 20 bus will get you to downtown Birmingham in approx. 30 minutes.

Overnight Layover?

If you have an overnight layover at BHM and want to get a good night's sleep there are many options available to you near the airport. The Ramada Birmingham Airport and the Holiday Inn Birmingham Airport are both located within 3 minutes’ drive from the airport and offer guests use of a complimentary shuttle bus. There are no sleep options at the airport.