Having access to green spaces in an urban environment means more than easily finding a pleasant place to enjoy a lunch break. In 2019, a team of researchers from UAB’s Department of Occupational Therapy reported that spending 20 minutes in an urban park can make someone happier, regardless of whether they are engaging in exercise during the visit.

With cooler weather now upon us, there is no better time to find a new lunch spot.

Photos by JENNIFER ALSABROOK-TURNER and ANDREA MABRY / UAB Office of Marketing and Communications

Science and Engineering Complex courtyard

When Frances and Miller Gorrie Hall (map it), the new home of the School of Engineering, opened in June 2025, it completed the U-shaped Science and Engineering Complex. The open end of the U contains a secluded, multi-level space that includes plentiful seating and features designed to recycle the condensate water from the complex’s cooling units.

Kracke Plaza

This park space, in front of the Altec/Styslinger Genomic Medicine and Data Sciences Building (map it), includes six picnic tables. It opened along with the Altec/Styslinger building in October 2025.

Sterne Plaza

If you are in the Science and Engineering Complex area (map it), you should also check this space nestled between the complex and Sterne Library (map it). It offers plenty of shade and charging ports for electronic devices. Plus, you can pick up a drink at Sterne’s Starbucks.

Two more

These spaces on opposite ends of campus are not new; but because they opened in 2020, they are not as well-known as they should be. Each is worth a look.

McMahon Hall courtyard

Named for former UA System trustee John J. McMahon Jr., McMahon Hall (map it) opened in fall 2020 on the south half of the block bordered by Ninth and 10th avenues South and 16th and 17th streets. Its outdoor courtyard area features both shaded and sunny gathering spaces.

Townhouse Park

Built following the razing of the 1950s Townhouse Building, Townhouse Park (map it), located at the northeast corner of University Boulevard and 20th Street South, is home to foliage and several benches and tables. It also features three laser-cut stainless steel towers with programmed LED lighting. Each tower features art patterns conceptualized by local artist Deedee Morrison and inspired by sketches and notes from former UAB faculty, staff and students found in the UAB Archives.

Yes, the teaser photo for this story was actually taken on the Campus Green. Sharp eyes! Feel free to eat there, too.