"The historic 40-acre Avondale Park situated on the slopes of Red Mountain has always been a respite of sorts. In the mid-1900s, the area attracted weary travelers who would relax near a spring-fed grotto pool. The park also served as home to the first incarnation of the Birmingham Zoo. After falling into a long period of decline beginning in the 1970s, the city of Birmingham undertook a $2.88 million restoration initiative in 2011. In 2013, the newly refurbished park was unveiled to the public. Today, Avondale Park features a WPA-era outdoor amphitheater, The Villa—a recently renovated 2,400 square foot secluded pavillion, duck pond, walking track, tennis courts, three youth baseball/softball fields, and free WiFi throughout the park and adjacent Avondale Library." - Lewis Communications
