Linn Park

Historic Urban Oasis

Linn Park is a seven-acre urban green space located in the heart of downtown Birmingham, Alabama. Originally known as Central Park, Capitol Park, and Woodrow Wilson Park, it was renamed in honor of Charles Linn, a Confederate naval officer and businessman, in the 1980s.

The park serves as the municipal center of Birmingham, occupying a prominent block bounded by 20th Street North, Park Place, 8th Avenue North, and several significant civic buildings.

Civic Surroundings

Linn Park is surrounded by important city landmarks, including Birmingham City Hall to the west, Boutwell Auditorium and the Birmingham Museum of Art to the north, and the Linn-Henley Research Library and Jefferson County Courthouse to the east. This central location makes it a focal point for civic activities and public gatherings.

The park has a rich history dating back to the city's founding in 1871. It was one of three parks included in the Elyton Land Company's original plans for Birmingham.

Events and Activities

As Birmingham's primary civic space, Linn Park hosts numerous public events throughout the year, including the Birmingham Christmas tree lighting ceremony, the Magic City Art Connection art festival, and the Magic City Blues Fest. It was also the venue for the popular City Stages music festival from 1989 to 2009.

Features and Amenities

The park features a variety of trees, providing shade and natural beauty to the urban landscape. Its layout includes walkways, open green spaces, and several monuments and memorials commemorating various aspects of Birmingham's history.

The park's central location and open design make it a popular spot for both casual visitors and organized events.

Future Development

In recent years, there have been efforts to revitalize and reimagine Linn Park. A "Re-Visioning" process began in 2022, aiming to gather community input and develop new design concepts for the park's future.

These plans include potential additions such as a community space, shade structures, a park café, and a children's play area, as well as improvements to address public safety, aesthetics, and accessibility.