Outline:
Explore Your Creative Side
Birmingham is a vibrant city that offers a wide range of opportunities for adults to learn new skills or rediscover old passions. Whether you’re interested in art, cooking, fitness, or nature, there’s something for everyone. These adult education classes are designed to spark creativity and keep your curiosity alive throughout the year.
Artistic Exploration
Alys Stephens Center’s ArtPlay Classes
Alys Stephens Center’s ArtPlay Classes provide an excellent opportunity to explore the world of playwriting and other creative activities. The program includes hands-on workshops such as personal narrative writing and public speaking, making it accessible even for those who aren’t actors. You can also learn to make a terrarium or polymer clay earrings. Each class is taught by passionate local artists and educators, providing a space where creativity can thrive. Classes start at $65.
Art Zone Art Classes
For a creative kind of weeknight unwind, check out Art Zone’s adult art classes. These sessions invite painters and creators of all levels, from beginners eager to explore new techniques to seasoned hobbyists looking for fresh inspiration. With options to drop in or enroll in a series, you can work in a variety of media — from drawing and watercolor to acrylic and oil — and pursue subjects that speak to your inner artist. Classes are $40 each.
Do It Yourself Crafts Wheel Throwing Try-It Class
Get your hands dirty and your creativity flowing with the Do It Yourself Crafts Introductory Clay Class. Perfect for couples, friends, or solo artists, this fun four-week session (two hours each session) teaches you the basics of working with clay. If you’ve always wanted to learn or perhaps want to reimmerse yourself in the craft, this class is for you. Classes start at $50.
Forstall Art Center Art Classes & Workshops
From painting and drawing to printmaking and figure studies, the lineup at Forstall Art Center is designed for all experience levels. Whether you’re committing to a multi-week class or dropping into a one-day workshop, there are plenty of options for all experience and interest levels. Classes start at $125 and workshops start at $150.
Hammer & Stain DIY Workshop
Get crafty and create something unique at Hammer & Stain’s DIY workshops. Whether you’re personalizing a farmhouse sign, building a custom tray, or designing seasonal decor, these hands-on classes turn unfinished wood into stunning, display-worthy pieces. Perfect for a solo outing, date night, or group gathering, workshops are offered year-round with prices that vary by project.
Pinspiration Craft Projects
For something that feels a little more memorable than your average night out, a session at Pinspiration is the perfect pick-your-own-adventure kind of activity. At this creative DIY craft studio, you and your crew can each choose from dozens of projects — from acrylic pours and painted wine glasses to string art and decor pieces. Then, laugh, sip, and craft together in a relaxed atmosphere with all the supplies and guidance you need. Prices vary by class.
Red Dot Gallery Painting & Pottery Classes
Unleash your creativity at Red Dot Gallery, where hands-on pottery, oil painting, and drawing classes provide the prime opportunity to explore your artistic potential. Whether you’re learning to throw clay on a wheel, master hand-building techniques, or perfect your brushstrokes, these classes cater to all skill levels. With flexible start dates and six-week sessions priced at $195 for painting and $200 for pottery, it’s never been easier to dive into a new hobby or refine your craft.
Red Mountain Theatre Classes
Step into the spotlight with classes at Red Mountain Theatre, where creativity takes center stage. From acting and improv to dance styles like ballet, tap, and hip-hop — plus musical theatre — there’s something for every performer. You can choose individual sessions or bundle multiple classes to fit your schedule. Prices start at $15 for individual sessions.
Samford University’s Academy of the Arts
Discover your next passion at Samford University’s Academy of the Arts. With classes in sketching, painting, pottery, stained glass, and more, there’s something to inspire every interest. Plus, each course is taught by talented instructors from the Birmingham community. Sessions start $310 and include supplies.
Sips n Strokes
Get ready to pick up a paintbrush and let your imagination flow at Sips n Strokes. These fun, hands-on classes are perfect for beginners and seasoned artists, offering step-by-step instructions to help you create a masterpiece to take home. Each class is ideal for a creative night out or a new hobby. Sessions start at $35.
Space One Eleven’s ARTfix! Classes
Space One Eleven’s ARTfix! Classes are designed for adults ready to dive into creativity. The workshops, led by professional artists, cover a range of interests — from ceramic press molds and slip casting to woodburning, working with porcelain, and more. Classes start at $95.
Aspiring Chefs & Bakers
Classes by Kessler
Ready to level up your kitchen game? The Grand Bohemian Hotel’s Classes by Kessler offer chef-led cooking experiences perfect for both beginners and seasoned foodies. From hand-rolling pasta to grilling like a pro and even blending your own bottle of wine, these sessions are fun and delicious. Starting at $149, the classes let you sharpen your skills, savor your creations, and take home recipes (and memories) you’ll want to revisit again and again.
Louise’s Cakes & Supply
Satisfy your sweet tooth and perfect your baking skills with a cake, cupcake, or cookie-decorating class at Louise’s Cakes & Supply. From mastering buttercream techniques and piping intricate designs to creating edible works of art, these classes are perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers, starting at $40. Grab a friend or come solo — either way, you’ll leave with tasty treats and new skills to show off.
Fitness Opportunities
Alabama Ballet’s Adult Ballet Classes
Channel your inner ballerina with adult ballet classes. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or just looking to try something new, these classes from Alabama Ballet will have you leaping and twirling in no time. Drop-in options are $20 per class, or you can purchase a 10-class card for $180.
Birmingham Boulders
Take your fitness to new heights with a climbing course at Birmingham Boulders. The gym offers expert instruction in bouldering, top-rope climbing, and lead climbing. Birmingham Boulders focuses on strength-building and problem-solving with climbing-specific training, and classes are available for all skill levels. Prices vary by class and membership.
High Point Climbing and Fitness
Like Birmingham Boulders, High Point Climbing and Fitness is a gym offering expert instruction in bouldering, top-rope climbing, and lead climbing. The difference? High Point features expansive climbing walls, auto-belays, and even a kid-friendly area — perfect for family outings. Prices vary by class and membership.
The Dance Foundation’s Adult Class Sessions
Shake up your routine and find your rhythm at The Dance Foundation, where adults can explore a variety of dance classes designed for all skill levels. From contemporary and jazz to ballet and hip-hop, these classes offer a welcoming space to move, stretch, and express yourself. Prices start at $108 per session.
Tiger-Rock Martial Arts
Elevate your fitness and your confidence at Tiger-Rock Martial Arts. Designed specifically for adults, these classes combine practical self-defense techniques with cutting-edge sports science and time-honored martial arts traditions. Prices vary per class.
Nature Enthusiasts
Aldridge Gardens’ Nature Journaling Class
Adding the Aldridge Gardens’ Nature Journaling Class to your 2026 calendar would be a refreshing way to kick off the year. This laid-back, beginner-friendly session guides you through using art and observation to slow down and really see the natural world around you. The focus isn’t on perfection, but on exploration, connection, and discovering inspiration in your everyday surroundings. Classes are free, but you must register on the website to reserve your spot.
Birmingham Botanical Garden Classes
Explore your green thumb (or grow one) with the unique classes at Birmingham Botanical Gardens. From hands-on workshops, such as floral arranging, to seasonal gardening tips, including how to care for your tools, there’s something for every plant lover or nature enthusiast. Prices start at $25 for non-members and $30 for members.
Need for Speed
Porsche Driving School
Get behind the wheel and fuel your adrenaline at the Porsche Track Experience. Offering high-performance driving courses for all skill levels, this world-class program lets you master precision driving techniques, tackle challenging road courses, and experience the thrill of Porsche engineering firsthand. Prices start at $2400.
What new skill will you learn this year?