2015 TOURIST GUIDE
Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau www.birmingham.travel
Make the most of your Birmingham visit‌ on your phone.
The new IN app puts nearly 300 of the most locally loved spots in Birmingham right at your fingertips. Download it free on the App Store or visit inbirmingham.com/app. Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau • 800-458-8085
DR I NK CH A MPA G N E MO R E O F TEN . LI VE W I T H O U T R E G R E T. E NJ O Y Y O U R S TAY I N T H E MA G I C CI T Y O N E B I T E AT A TI M E.
2 3 0 0 Wo o d cr e s t P l a c e at t h e e m b assy sui t e s b i r m in gh a m 2 0 5 .8 7 9 .9 9 9 5 For Menus & Additional Information, visit RuthsChris.net
I N T ROD UCTION
The Birmingham Vibe IT’S DIFFICULT TO EXPLAIN WHAT sets Birmingham apart from her Southern sisters---almost impossible really. People who visit Birmingham, as well as those who live here, swear they sense a vibe to this city that they don’t find elsewhere in their travels. It’s hard to put a finger on the particulars of it, but it’s there. Outdoor entertainment and the arts are a dominant part of Birmingham’s character. Take a quilt and a picnic to Railroad Park in the heart of downtown and listen to Alabama music. Live music is the signature entertainment of the city. Visit the dozens of art galleries around the city for funk, fine and folk art treasures. Come for the city’s annual Sidewalk 2 | BIRMINGHAM TOURIST GUIDE
Film Festival, chosen one of TIME’s Top 10 “Film Festivals for the Rest of Us.” That means we don’t have to go to Cannes anymore! Opera, ballet and live theatre add to Birmingham’s cultural wealth. For visitors interested in architecture, the city’s downtown buildings are a collection of Cinderella stories. Many early skyscrapers are now refurbished, dressed up and housing restaurants, law firms and luxury condos. Also look downtown for many of the city’s best festivals and arts events. Spring brings the Magic City Art Connection, a juried contemporary art show that is widely respected in the festival community. Summer finds crowds downtown for
Located Inside The Riverchase Galleria - Lower Level, Sears Wing
A #1 ALABAMA ATTRACTION
Table Tennis Courts!
Pool Tables! Parties & Events!
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I N T RO D UCT I O N
top-notch independent cinema at the Sidewalk Film Festival. The city’s popular Pepper Place Saturday Market begins its run in April. Locals and tourists alike fall in love with this weekly farmers market, where they find fresh fruits and vegetables, live music, cooking demonstrations, all manner of crafts and home baked breads and cookies. As you can see, Birmingham is an outdoorsy sort of place to spend time. The weather is generously comfortable, which is one smart reason golfers come here from around the world. The other reason is the lure of handsome and challenging public golf courses. With the development of the state’s Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, Alabama became the Godfather of Great Golf. Birmingham has two of the courses along the trail, one of which is the third longest course in the world. So pack your sticks. Birmingham is center ring for Alabama’s attractions and entertainment as well. From Broadway shows, the Alabama Symphony Orchestra and other cultural events to outlet mall shopping and the finest selection of antique stores in the region, Birmingham knows how to entertain company. Major attractions including Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum and the Birmingham Museum of Art increase the inventory of memorable things to see and do here. Regions Field, voted the best new baseball park in the country, opened its first season in 2013, adding to the Birmingham vibe. And speaking of memorable, you will not find a city in the region with better restaurants. Chef-owned dining rooms throughout the area attract visitors from around the Southeast to spend the weekend simply dining. For all its small town charm, Birmingham is a sophisticated, well-heeled international community. With a rich history of Italian, Lebanese, Greek, Asian, Hispanic and Eastern European immigrants, Birmingham benefits from the gifts of many backgrounds. The influences are all around us and beautifully melded into the diversity of our Southern culture. It’s nice to have you in Birmingham. Enjoy the vibe.
On the Cover Young Ethan Tucker
has had his fill of this modeling assignment, but not of the savory ribs at Jim ‘N Nick’s Community Bar-B-Q. During 2015, the entire state will be celebrating the “Year of Alabama Barbeque.” Come join us.
Contents 6 Information 8 Lodging 26 Attractions 42 Shopping 46 Antiques
64 Pork Ribs and Politics 66 Dining 82 Craft Breweries 88 After Dark 94 Outdoors
50 Art Galleries
104 Golf
54 Entertainment
110 Events
Published by CityVision, Inc. 205.595.0809 www.cityvision.tv and www.localbham.com This publication is printed on 20% recycled (10% Postconsumer waste) paper using only soy-based inks. Our printer meets or exceeds all Federal Resource Conservation Recovery Act (RCRA) Standards and is a certified member of the Forest Stewardship Council.
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Information Central Tourist Information DOWNTOWN TOURIST CENTER/THE BIRMINGHAM SHOP:
2200 9th Avenue North, 205-458-8000 or 800-458-8085 AIRPORT TOURIST CENTER LOWER LEVEL: 205-595-1052 VULCAN PARK AND MUSEUM TOURIST CENTER:
1701 Valley View Drive, 205-458-8000
LIBRARY: 205-226-3600 TRAVELERS AID SOCIETY: 205-322-5426 PARKS: 205-254-2391 (city), 800-252-7275 (state) CAP (CITY ACTION PARTNERS): Got a flat? Lock your keys
in the car? Mon-Fri, 7 am to midnight; Sat 11 am to 7 pm. 205-251-0111 (downtown only)
LAWS TO KNOW: Use safety belts. Turn on headlights
Helpful Information
during rain. Drinking age 21. Liquor sales at package and grocery stores after noon Sundays.
AREA CODE: 205
EMERGENCIES: For emergencies call or text 911
ALTITUDE: 620 average feet; ranging between 538 and 1,200 AREA: 3,358 square miles – Metropolitan Statistical Area –
Jefferson, Blount, St. Clair, Shelby and Walker Counties CHURCHES: More than 1,300, all major denominations BIRMINGHAM SHUTTLESWORTH INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT: 205-595-0533
Rental Car Agencies ALAMO RENT A CAR: 205-591-4395 AVIS RENT A CAR: 205-592-8901 BUDGET RENT A CAR: 205-322-3596
BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU: 205-558-2222
DOLLAR RENT A CAR: 800-800-4000, www.dollar.com
TELEVISION STATIONS: 7 commercial, 3 independents and
ENTERPRISE RENT A CAR: 205-591-1927, www.enterprise.com
1 public educational station, several cable stations. RADIO STATIONS: 14 AM stations and 18 FM stations. Also, 1 Spanish station. NEWSPAPERS: Weeklies and monthlies. CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU:
HERTZ RENT A CAR: 205-591-6090 NATIONAL CAR RENTAL: 205-592-7259
Wheelchair Accessible Transportation
205-458-8000 or 800-458-8085
BUZZ-A-BUS: 205-879-3438
BIRMINGHAM BUSINESS ALLIANCE: 205-324-2100
CLASTRAN: 205-325-8787
POPULATION: Metro – just over one million
FRESH AIR: 205-744-7475
6 | BIRMINGHAM TOURIST GUIDE
I N FO R M AT I O N CE N T R A L
J&B PASSENGER SERVICE: 205-781-5702 MAX VIP: 205-521-0101 SPECIAL NEEDS TRANSPORTATION: 205-821-3736
ST. VINCENT’S EAST:
205-838-3000, 50 Medical Park East Dr., 35235 THE CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL OF ALABAMA:
205-939-9100, 1600 7th Ave. S., 35233
Ground Transportation
TRINITY MEDICAL CENTER:
ACTON LIMOUSINE COACH: 205-408-7723
UAB MEDICAL CENTER WEST:
www.actonlimo.com
AFFORDABLE LIMOUSINE, LLC : 205-251-5466 AMBASSADOR LIMOUSINE: 205-987-5466 AMERICAN CAB CO.: 205-322-2222
205-592-1000, 800 Montclair Rd., 35213 205-481-7000, 995 9th Ave. S.W., 35022 UAB UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL:
205-934-4011, 1802 6th Ave. S., 35233
APEX VALET: 205-991-0532
www.apexvalet.com
Veterinary Emergency Hospitals
BIRMINGHAM DOOR TO DOOR: 205-205-4503
ALABAMA VETERINARY SPECIALISTS:
BIRMINGHAM LIMOUSINE: 205-822-8600
www.birminghamlimousine.com
205-481-1001, 3783 Pine Lane SE Professional Building 200, Bessemer, 35022
BURKES BROTHERS CLASSIC LIMOUSINE SERVICE:
EMERGENCY AND SPECIALTY ANIMAL MEDICAL CENTER:
205-324-9677 www.burkesbrotherslimousine.com CAREY LIMOUSINE: 205-591-5959 or 322-8810
ESHUTTLE/SILVER LEAF LUXURY LIMOUSINE:
205-702-4566, www.eshuttle.net LARRY’S LIMOS: 205-629-6642 www.larryslimos.com LEGACY LIMOS: 205-655-4321 www.legacy-limousines.com MAGIC CITY LIMOUSINE: 877-886-5728 R. C. PLATINUM TAXI: 205-960-1114 RARE TRANSPORTATION: 205-980-7273 www.raretransportation.com
205-967-7389 or 205-251-5696, 2864 Acton Rd., Birmingham, 35243 PET VET ANIMAL HOSPITAL:
205-824-2077, 2021 Kentucky Ave., Birmingham, 35216
You take care of business. We’ll take of you.
ROYAL TRANSPORTATION & BOOKING AGENCY:
205-929-3904 STS, INC.: 205-324-4024 www.sts-transportation.com
BIRMINGHAM YELLOW CAB: 205-222-2222
Hospitals with Emergency Rooms BIRMINGHAM VA MEDICAL CENTER:
205-933-8101, 700 19th St. S., 35233
BROOKWOOD MEDICAL CENTER:
205-877-1000, 2010 Brookwood Medical Center Dr., 35209 CALLAHAN EYE FOUNDATION HOSPITAL:
205-325-8100, 1720 University Blvd., 35233 COOPER GREEN MERCY HOSPITAL:
205-930-3200, 1515 6th Ave. S., 35205 ST. VINCENT’S HOSPITAL:
205-939-7000, 2800 8th Ave. S., 35205
TRY OUR APP! 205.629.6642
larryslimos.com
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A GUIDE TO BIRMINGHAM LODGING
WHERE TO STAY
The Birmingham area has an excellent selection of accommodations in more than 15,000 guest rooms. For a special weekend getaway, make reservations at a resort or a charming historic inn. Shoppers will find good accommodations convenient to malls and large shopping districts all around the area. Budget-minded families can expect reasonable rates with lots of amenities. Top-notch lodging at affordable prices is a Birmingham trademark. 8 | BIRMINGHAM TOURIST GUIDE
LODGING
1. Aloft Birmingham Soho Square 1903 29th Avenue S, Homewood 35209 205-874-8055 / FAX 205-870-5707 www.aloftbirminghamsohosquare.com, 111 rooms ★ AMENITIES: 24-Hour Business Center, Bus Parking, Cable TV, Concierge Service, Data ports, Fax and Copy Service, Fitness Center, Free High-Speed Internet Access, Free High-Speed Wireless Internet Access, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, Free In-Room Movie Channel, Free Local Phone Calls, Free Parking, Free USA Today Newspaper, In-Room Hair Dryers, InRoom Iron & Ironing Board, Indoor Pool, Interior Corridors, Laundry, Lounge, Meeting Space, Meeting/Banquet Space, Pets Allowed, Pool, Refrigerators, Restaurant, Restaurant/ Bar, Satellite TV with premium channels, Two Line Phone, Voice Mail 2. America’s Best Inn Birmingham/ Homewood
251 Summit Pkwy, Birmingham 35209-4731 205-945-5550 / FAX 205-945-8823, 102 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Cable TV, Complimentary Continental Breakfast, Extended Stay, FAX/Copy Service, Free High-speed Wireless Internet Access, Free Local Calls, Interior Corridors, Pets Allowed, Suite
3. America’s Best Inn Birmingham Parkway East
9225 Roebuck Parkway East, Birmingham 35206-1510, 205-836-5400 / FAX 205-833-4561 www.americasbestinnbirminghamparkwayeast.com, 89 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Complimentary Continental Breakfast, Fitness Center, Laundry, Meeting Space, Pool
4. America’s Best Inns & Suites Birmingham Airport
5101 Airport Highway, Birmingham 35212-3046 205-592-6110 / FAX 205-591-5623 www.americasbestinnbirminghamairport.com, 143 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Complimentary Airport Shuttle Service, Complimentary Continental Breakfast, Fitness Center, Meeting Space, Pool, Suite 5. America’s Best Inn & Suites 6400 Kelco Place, Fairfield 35064-1828 205-780-5155 / FAX 205-780-2855 Fairfield.americasbestinn.com, 80 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Bus Parking, Cable TV, Complimentary Continental Breakfast, Fax and Copy Service, Fitness Center, Free High-Speed Wireless Internet Access, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, Free Local Phone Calls, In-Room Hair Dryers, In-Room Iron & Ironing Board, Interior Corridors, Laundry, Meeting Space, Microwaves, Refrigerators available, Outdoor Pool Seasonal, Pets Allowed, Voice Mail, Bus Parking 6. America’s Best Value Inn - Irondale 1813 Crestwood Blvd, Birmingham 35210-2031 205-956-3650 / FAX 205-951-5892 www.bestvalueinn.com, 86 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Pool 7. America’s Best Value Inn - Leeds 1093 Higrove Parkway, Leeds 35094-1700 205-702-2700 / FAX 205-702 2700 www.americasbestvalueinn.com, 42 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Cable TV, Complimentary Continental Breakfast, Free Local Phone Calls, Pets Allowed, Voice Mail
CALL A CAP Uh-oh. Now you’ve done it. And just when you were on your way to McWane your brain at McWane Science Center. There are those keys just dangling from the ignition. Be thankful that CAP is downtown and to the rescue. Those handsome young men in uniform riding bicycles or in trucks with green lights all over town are useful as well as cool. They are the City Action Partnership (CAP) patrol. CAP service area is downtown from 11th Avenue North to 5th Avenue South and from 22nd Street to 16th Street North, more or less. To summons free assistance or for helpful information, call CAP headquarters at 205-251-0111 (unless you locked your cell phone in the car, too), or visit their website at www.capisdowntown.com
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LOD G I N G
FOR LOCATIONS SEE FOLD OUT MAP IN BACK OF GUIDE
8. America’s Best Value Inn & Suites –
Birmingham/Homewood
260 Oxmoor Rd, 205-942-2041 www.americasbestvalueinn.com
9. American Interstate Motel 5921 1st Ave N, Birmingham 35212-1607 205-595-4609, 29 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Extended Stay 10. Anchor Motel 4121 3rd Avenue South, Birmingham 35222-1918, 205-595-6157, 24 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Extended Stay 11. Anchor Motel Eastlake 8420 First Avenue North, Birmingham 35206-2704, 205-833-3414, 28 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Extended Stay 12. Apex Motel 1900 33rd Avenue North, Birmingham 35207-3338, 205-328-0080, 28 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Extended Stay
Speed Wireless Internet Access, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, Free Local Phone Calls, Free USA Today Newspaper, In-Room Hair Dryers, In-Room Iron & Ironing Board, Meeting Space, Outdoor Pool Seasonal, Pets Allowed, Pool, Voice Mail 15. Best Western Plus Bessemer Hotel & Suites 5041 Academy Lane, Bessemer 35022-5250 205-481-1950 / FAX 205-481-2597, 70 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Board Suites, Bus Parking, Business Center, Cable TV, Complimentary Continental Breakfast, Complimentary Hot Breakfast Bar, Complimentary Newspapers, Data ports, Dry Cleaning Services, Extended Stay, Fax and Copy Service, Fitness Center, Free High-Speed Internet Access, Free High-Speed Wireless Internet Access, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, Free Local Phone Calls, Free Long Distance Phone Calls, Free Parking, Free USA Today Newspaper, Fully Equipped Kitchens, Hot Breakfast Buffet, In-Room Hair Dryers, In-Room Iron & Ironing Board, Interior Corridors, Jacuzzi/Hot Tub, Kitchen, Kitchenette, Laundry, Meeting Space, Microwaves and Refrigerators available, Outdoor Pool Seasonal/Gazebo, Pets Allowed, Pool, Refrigerators, Spa, Suites, Two Line Phone, Voice Mail 16. Best Western Carlton Suites Hotel 140 State Farm Parkway, Birmingham 35209-7186, 205-940-9990 / FAX 205-940-9930 www.carltonsuiteshotel.com, 102 rooms ★ AMENITIES: All Suites, Business Center, Cable TV, Complimentary Hot Breakfast Bar, Complimentary Newspapers, Dry Cleaning Services, Fax and Copy Service, Fitness Center, Free High-Speed Internet Access, Free HighSpeed Wireless Internet Access, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, Free Local Phone Calls, Free USA Today Newspaper, In-Room Hair Dryers, In-Room Iron & Ironing Board, Indoor Pool, Interior Corridors, Laundry, Manager’s Reception, Meeting Space, Microwaves, Refrigerators available, Pool, Suite, Voice Mail
14. Baymont Inn & Suites Birmingham/
17. Best Western Plus/Gardendale 842 Thompson Street, Gardendale 35071-4602 205-631-1181 / FAX 205-631-1066 www.book.bestwestern.com, 59 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Complimentary Continental Breakfast, Interior Corridors
1466 Montgomery Highway, Birmingham 35216-3607, 1-877-229-6668 / FAX 205-822-9421 www.baymontinns.com, 123 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Cable TV, Complimentary Continental Breakfast, Complimentary Hot Breakfast Bar, Dry Cleaning Services, Fax and Copy Service, Free High-Speed Internet Access, Free High-
18. Birmingham Garden Inn & Suites 7901 Crestwood Blvd, Birmingham 35210-2611 205-951-0700 / FAX 205-313-3701, 102 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Complimentary Airport Shuttle Service, Complimentary Continental Breakfast, Extended Stay, Laundry, Pool
13. Bama Motel 6712 First Avenue North, Birmingham 35206-5016, 205-833-7141, 20 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Extended Stay
Vestavia
10 | BIRMINGHAM TOURIST GUIDE
PHOTOGRAPH: KEN GEHLE PHOTOGRAPHY, INC.
ELEGANCE UPGRADED THROUGHOUT THE CASTLE. Experience the beauty and serenity of Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort and Spa unlike ever before. Debuting new luxuries and looks in 2014, Ross Bridge continues to raise the standard of Four Diamond elegance for hotels in Birmingham. Scenic views surround the outside of the castle, with fresh sophistication inside. Enjoy a stay at Renaissance Ross Bridge and indulge in the refined and serene environment of the Castle. For more information or to make reservations, call 205 916 7677.
RENAISSANCE BIRMINGHAM ROSS BRIDGE GOLF RESORT & SPA 4000 Grand Avenue Birmingham, AL 35226 t: 205 916 7677 rossbridgeresort.com A part of the Resort Collection on Alabama’s Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail
LOD G I N G
FOR LOCATIONS SEE FOLD OUT MAP IN BACK OF GUIDE
24. Clarion Hotel & Conference Center 5216 Messer Airport Highway, Birmingham 35212-3033 205-591-7900 / FAX 205-591-6004 www.clarionhotel.com, 197 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Business Center, Complimentary Airport Shuttle Service, Dry Cleaning Services, Fitness Center, Free High-Speed Wireless Internet Access, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, In-Room Hair Dryers, In-Room Iron & Ironing Board, Interior Corridors, Meeting Space, Outdoor Pool Seasonal/ Gazebo, Refrigerators, Restaurant/Bar, Suites 25. Cobb Lane Bed and Breakfast 1309 19th Street S, Birmingham 35205-4801 205-918-9090, www.cobblanebandb.com, 8 rooms
19. Birmingham Marriott 3590 Grandview Parkway, Birmingham 35243-1946, 205-968-3775 / FAX 205-968-4517 www.birminghammarriott.com, 295 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Business Center, Cable TV, Club Level Rooms with added amenities, Complimentary Newspapers, Concierge Service, Dry Cleaning Services, Fitness Center, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, Free In-Room Movie Channel, Free Long Distance Phone Calls, Gift Shop, High Speed Internet Access by Request (Charge), In-Room Hair Dryers, In-Room Iron & Ironing Board, Indoor Pool, Interior Corridors, Laundry, Lounge, Meeting Space, No Pets Allowed, Restaurant, Suite, Two Line Phone, Voice Mail 20. Birmingham Motor Court 1625 Third Avenue West, Birmingham 35208-4205 205-786-4397, 19 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Extended Stay 21. Budget Motel 1548 Bankhead Hwy W, Birmingham 35214-4847 205-798-8444, 30 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Extended Stay 22. Budget Motel Bessemer 3010 9th Avenue N, Bessemer 35020-3546 205-428-9888, 35 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Extended Stay 23. Candlewood Suites Birmingham/ Homewood
400 Commons Dr., Birmingham 35209 205-769-9777, www.ichotelsgroup.com, 81 rooms 12 | BIRMINGHAM TOURIST GUIDE
26. Comfort Inn & Suites Colonnade 4400 Colonnade Parkway, Birmingham 35243-3365 205-968-3700 / FAX 205-968-0997 www.choicehotels.com, 67 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Bus Parking, Business Center, Cable TV, Complimentary Hot Breakfast Bar, Fax and Copy Service, Free High-Speed Internet Access, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, Free USA Today Newspaper, In-Room Hair Dryers, In-Room Iron & Ironing Board, Interior Corridors, Manager’s Reception, Microwaves, Refrigerators available, No Pets Allowed, Pool, Suites, Voice Mail 27. Comfort Inn & Suites Trussville 4740 Norrell Dr, Trussville 35173-2634 205-661-3636 / FAX 205-661-3646 www.comfortinn.com, 66 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Business Center, Cable TV, Complimentary Continental Breakfast, Complimentary Newspapers, Dry Cleaning Services, Fax and Copy Service, Fitness Center, Free High-Speed Internet Access, Free High-Speed Wireless Internet Access, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, Free Local Phone Calls, Free USA Today Newspaper, In-Room Hair Dryers, In-Room Iron & Ironing Board, Interior Corridors, Laundry, Meeting Space, No Pets Allowed, Outdoor Pool Seasonal, Pool, Refrigerators, Suites, Voice Mail 28. Comfort Inn Airport 4965 Montevallo Rd, Birmingham 35210-2418 205-957-0084 / FAX 205-314-2400 www.comfortinn.com, 83 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Business Center, Cable TV, Complimentary Continental Breakfast, Complimentary Newspapers, Dry Cleaning Services, Extended Stay, Fax and Copy Service, Fitness Center, Free High-Speed Internet Access, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, Free Local Phone Calls, Free USA Today Newspaper, In-Room
LODGING
Hair Dryers, In-Room Iron & Ironing Board, Interior Corridors, Kitchenette, Laundry, Meeting Space, No Pets Allowed, Outdoor Pool Seasonal, Pool, Voice Mail 29. Comfort Inn Bessemer 5051 Academy Lane, Bessemer 35022-5250 205-428-3999 / FAX 205-428-8053 www.comfortinn.com/hotel-bessemer-alabama, 59 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Complimentary Continental Breakfast, Interior Corridors 30. Comfort Inn Homewood 226 Summit Pkwy, Homewood 35209-4732 205-916-0464 / FAX 205-916-0298 www.choicehotels.com/hotel/AL339, 115 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Business Center, Complimentary Continental Breakfast, Dry Cleaning Services, Fax and Copy Service, Fitness Center, Free USA Today Newspaper, Laundry, Meeting Space, Pool, Suite 31. Comfort Suites Fultondale 1325 Old Walker Chapel Rd, Fultondale 35068-1659 205-259-2160 / FAX 205-259-2170 www.choicehotels.com/hotel/al222, 70 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Business Center, Cable TV, Complimentary Continental Breakfast, Complimentary Hot Breakfast Bar, Fax and Copy Service, Fitness Center, Free High-Speed Internet Access, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, Free Local Phone Calls, Free USA Today Newspaper, Interior Corridors, Laundry, Meeting Space, Microwaves, Refrigerators available, Pool, Voice Mail
32. Country Inn & Suites Bessemer 4985 Academy Ct, Bessemer 35022-5250 205-481-0007 / FAX 205-481-0070 www.countryinns.com/hotels/albessem, 66 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Fax and Copy Service, Fitness Center, High Speed Internet Access by Request (Charge), Indoor Pool, Interior Corridors, Microwaves and Refrigerators available, Whirlpool 33. Country Inn & Suites Homewood 485 Wildwood North Circle, Homewood 35209 205-451-4000, www.countryinns.com/hotels/alhomewd, 70 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Complimentary Continental Breakfast, Complimentary Newspapers, Fitness Center, Free High-Speed Wireless Internet Access, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, In-Room Hair Dryers, In-Room Iron & Ironing Board, Jacuzzi/ Hot Tub, Laundry, Meeting Space, Pool 34. Courtyard by Marriott Birmingham
Downtown/UAB
1820 5th Avenue South, Birmingham 35233-1809 205-254-0004 / FAX 205-254-8001 www.marriott.com/bhmdw, 122 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Business Center, Cable TV, Dry Cleaning Services, Fax and Copy Service, Fitness Center, Free HighSpeed Internet Access, Free High-Speed Wireless Internet Access, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, Free USA Today Newspaper, Gift Shop, In-Room Hair Dryers, In-Room Iron & Ironing Board, Interior Corridors, Laundry, Lounge, Meeting Space, No Pets Allowed, Refrigerators, Restaurant, Restaurant/Bar, Suites, Voice Mail
A time to remember Enjoy our comforting community centered in the Uptown Entertainment District at the BJCC, with upscale amenities and guestrooms furnished with the plush Sheraton Sweet Sleeper® Bed. Find out more at sheraton.com/birmingham or call 205 324 5000
80 0 . 4 5Reserved. 8 . 8 0 8 5Preferred | W W W. I NSPG, B I RSheraton M I N G H A M . O RG | 1 3 ©2015 Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. All Rights Guest, and their logos are the trademarks of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., or its affiliates.
LOD G I N G
39. Days Inn Birmingham/West 905 11th Court West, Birmingham 35204-1806 205-324-4510 / FAX 205-326-4360 www.daysinn.com/DaysInn, 106 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Complimentary Continental Breakfast, Extended Stay, Fax and Copy Service, Interior Corridors, Laundry, Meeting Space, Pets Allowed, Pool, Suite 40. Days Inn Birmingham/Summit Mall 4627 US Highway 280 S, Birmingham 35064-1828 205-991-9977/FAX 205-995-0570, 102 rooms www.daysinn.com ★ AMENITIES: Complimentary Continental Breakfast, Dry Cleaning Services, Fax And Copy Center, Fitness Center, Free High-Speed Wireless Internet Access, Meeting Space, Outdoor Seasonal Pool, Pets Allowed. 35. Courtyard by Marriott Colonnade 4300 Colonnade Parkway, Birmingham 35243-2399 205-967-4466 / FAX 205-967-2499 www.marriott.com/bhmsc, 122 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Interior Corridors, Laundry, Lounge, Meeting Space, Pool, Restaurant, Suites
41. Days Inn Birmingham/Vestavia 1485 Montgomery Hwy., Vestavia 35216-3633 205.823.4300/FAX 205.823.6535 ★ AMENITIES: Complimentary Continental Breakfast, FAX/ Copy Service, Interior Corridors, Laundry, Meeting Space, Outdoor Pool Seasonal.
36. Courtyard by Marriott Homewood 500 Shades Creek Parkway, Homewood 35209-4418 205-879-0400 / FAX 205-879-6324, 140 rooms www.marriott.com/bhmhw ★ AMENITIES: Fitness Center, Interior Corridors, Laundry, Meeting Space, Pool, Restaurant, Suites
42. Days Inn Galleria 1800 Riverchase Drive, Hoover 35244-1008 205-985-7500 / FAX 205-733-8122 www.daysinn.com/DaysInn, 138 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Business Center, Fitness Center, Free High-Speed Internet Access, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, In-Room Hair Dryers, In-Room Iron & Ironing Board, Laundry, Pool
37. Courtyard by Marriott Hoover 1824 Montgomery Hwy S, Hoover 35244-1208 205-988-5000 / FAX 205-988-4659 www.marriott.com/bhmho, 153 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Complimentary Newspapers, Dry Cleaning Services, Fitness Center, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, Free Long Distance Phone Calls, Interior Corridors, Laundry, Meeting Space, Outdoor Pool Seasonal, Restaurant, Whirlpool 38. Courtyard by Marriott Trussville 3665 Roosevelt Blvd, Birmingham 35235 205-661-2280 / FAX 205-661-2281 www.marriott.com/bhmtv, 84 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Complimentary Newspapers, Fitness Center, Free High-Speed Wireless Internet Access, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, Free Parking, In-Room Hair Dryers, In-Room Iron & Ironing Board, Interior Corridors, No Pets Allowed, Pool, Voice Mail 14 | BIRMINGHAM TOURIST GUIDE
43. Days Inn Fultondale 616 Decatur Highway, Fultondale 205-849-0111, www.daysinn.com ★ AMENITIES: Bus Parking, Business Center, Complimentary Continental Breakfast, Fitness Center, Meeting Space, Pets Allowed 44. DoubleTree by Hilton Birmingham 808 20th Street South, Birmingham 35205-2795 205-933-9000 / FAX 205-933-0920 www.birmingham.doubletree.com, 298 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Business Center, Cable TV, Complimentary Airport Shuttle Service, Data ports, Dry Cleaning Services, Fax and Copy Service, Fitness Center, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, Free In-Room Movie Channel, Free USA Today Newspaper, Gift Shop, High Speed Internet Access by
LODGING
Request (Charge), In-Room Hair Dryers, In-Room Iron & Ironing Board, Interior Corridors, Laundry, Lounge, Meeting Space, No Pets Allowed, Pool, Restaurant, Voice Mail 45. Drury Inn & Suites Birmingham Southeast 3510 Grandview Pkwy, Birmingham 35243-1929 205-967-2450 / FAX 205-967-6455 www.druryhotels.com/properties/birmingham.cfm, 151 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Fitness Center, Free Local Phone Calls, Fax And Copy Service, Dry Cleaning, Suites, Laundry, Voice Mail, Complimentary Breakfast, Pool, Meeting Space, Pets Allowed, Complimentary Hot Breakfast, Complimentary 5:30 Kickback, Free Wireless Internet, Free One Hour Long Distance Call, Free Wireless Internet, Indoor/Outdoor Pool With Whirlpool 46. Drury Inn & Suites Southwest 160 State Farm Parkway, Birmingham 35209-7186 205-940-9500 / FAX 205-940-9500 www.druryhotels.com/properties/birminghamsw.cfm, 139 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Fitness Center, Free Local Phone Calls, Fax And Copy Service, Dry Cleaning, Suites, Laundry, Voice Mail, Complimentary Breakfast, Pool, Meeting Space, Pets Allowed, Complimentary Hot Breakfast, Complimentary 5:30 Kickback, Free Wireless Internet, Free One Hour Long Distance Call, Free Wireless Internet, Indoor/Outdoor Pool With Whirlpool
47. Econo Lodge 1535 Montgomery Hwy, Hoover 35216 205-822-6030/fax 205-979-5834, www.econolodge.com, 34 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Free local phone calls, Pool, Restaurant, Lounge, Suites 48. Econo Lodge Oxmoor 195 Oxmoor Road, Homewood 35209-5956 205-941-0990 / FAX 205-941-1527 www.choicehotels.com/hotel/al114, 153 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Cable TV, Complimentary Continental Breakfast, Dry Cleaning Services, Fax and Copy Service, Fitness Center, Free High-Speed Internet Access, Free Local Phone Calls, In-Room Hair Dryers, In-Room Iron & Ironing Board, Meeting Space, Microwaves and Refrigerators available, No Pets Allowed, Outdoor Pool Seasonal, Suites, Voice Mail 49. Economy Inn 1113 9th Avenue SW, Bessemer 35022-4529 205-424-9690 / FAX 205-425-5955, 122 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Extended Stay, Pets Allowed, Pool 50. Embassy Suites Birmingham 2300 Woodcrest Place, Birmingham 35209-1304 205-879-7400 / FAX 205-870-4523 www.birmingham.embassysuites.com, 242 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Cable TV, Complimentary Airport Shuttle
BLISSFUL DAYS RELAXING NIGHTS Treat yourself to a refreshing getaway in the heart of the Uptown Entertainment District. Sleep well in a Heavenly Bed® and wake up to great amenities, including the iconic Todd English P.U.B. FOR INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION, VISIT WESTIN.COM/BIRMINGHAM OR CALL 205.307.3600.
©2011–2015 Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Preferred Guest, SPG, Westin and their logos are the trademarks of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., or its affiliates.
LOD G I N G
FOR LOCATIONS SEE FOLD OUT MAP IN BACK OF GUIDE
Service, Complimentary Continental Breakfast, Data ports, Dry Cleaning Services, Fax and Copy Service, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, Free USA Today Newspaper, Gift Shop, High Speed Internet Access by Request (Charge), In-Room Hair Dryers, In-Room Iron & Ironing Board, Indoor Pool, Interior Corridors, Kitchenette, Laundry, Lounge, Manager’s Reception, Meeting Space, Pets Allowed, Refrigerators, Restaurant, Suites, Two Line Phone, Video games featured on TV, Voice Mail 51. Embassy Suites Birmingham/Hoover 2960 John Hawkins Parkway, Hoover 35244 205-985-9994, www.birminghamhoover.embassysuites. com, 208 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Business Center, Cable TV w/HBO, Complimentary Hot Breakfast Bar, Data ports, Fitness Center, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, Free In-Room Movie Channel, Free USA Today Newspaper, Gift Shop, High Speed Internet Access, In-Room Hair Dryers, In-Room Iron & Ironing Board, Kitchenette, Laundry, Lounge, Manager’s Reception, Microwaves Refrigerators available, Pool, Two Line Phone, Voice Mail 52. Extended Stay America Birmingham
Perimeter Park South
12 Perimeter Park South, Birmingham 35243-2326 205-967-3800 / FAX 205-967-0025 16 | BIRMINGHAM TOURIST GUIDE
www.homesteadhotels.com, 137 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Extended Stay, Free Local Phone Calls, Kitchenette, Laundry, Pets Allowed 53. Extended Stay America Birmingham Wildwood 40 State Farm Parkway, Homewood 35209-7179 205-290-0102 / FAX 205-912-2092 www.studioplus.com, 72 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Extended Stay, Fitness Center, Kitchenette, Laundry, Pool, Suite 54. Fairfield Inn & Suites Birmingham
Fultondale/I-65
1795 Morris Avenue, Fultondale 35068 205-849-8484 / FAX 205-849-7373 www.marriott.com/bhmbf, 75 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Business Center, Cable TV, Complimentary Hot Breakfast Bar, Complimentary Newspapers, Dry Cleaning Services, Extended Stay, Fax and Copy Service Fitness Center Free High-Speed Internet Access, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, Gift Shop, In-Room Hair Dryers, In-Room Iron & Ironing Board, Indoor Pool, Interior Corridors, Laundry, Meeting Space, Microwaves and Refrigerators available, Whirlpool
LODGING
55. Fairfield Inn & Suites Birmingham/
Bessemer
4980 Academy Court, Bessemer 35022-5471 205-277-1700 / FAX 205-277-1701 www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/bhmbb-fairfield-innand-suites-birmingham-bessemer, 76 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Cable TV, Complimentary Continental Breakfast, Fitness Center, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, Free Local Phone Calls, Free Parking, In-Room Hair Dryers, InRoom Iron & Ironing Board, Indoor Pool, Interior Corridors, No Pets Allowed 56. Grand Bohemian Hotel
Mountain Brook
(Opening mid 2015) 2655 Lane Park Road, Mountain Brook, 888-472-6312, www.kesslercollection.com
57. Hampton Inn & Suites BirminghamEast I-20
3910 Grants Mill Road, Irondale 35210 205-933-0444 / FAX 205-933-0777 www.hamptoninn.hilton.com, 99 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Board Suites, Bus Parking, Business Center, Complimentary Airport Shuttle Service, Complimentary Hot Breakfast Bar, Complimentary Newspapers, Data ports, Dry Cleaning Services, Extended Stay, Fax and Copy Service, Fitness Center, Free 24 Hour Gourmet Coffee, Free High-Speed Wireless Internet Access, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, Free Local Phone Calls, Free Parking, Free USA Today Newspaper, InRoom Hair Dryers, In-Room Iron & Ironing Board, Indoor Pool, Interior Corridors, Meeting Space, Meeting/Banquet Space, Microwaves Refrigerators available, Satellite TV w/premium channels, Suites, Voice Mail, Wireless Internet (Public)
58. Hampton Inn & Suites HooverGalleria
4520 Galleria Blvd, Birmingham 35244-5304 205-380-3300 / FAX 205-989-8524 www.birminghamriverchasesuites.hamptoninn.com, 102 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Business Center, Complimentary Airport Shuttle Service, Complimentary Hot Breakfast Bar, Complimentary Newspapers, Dry Cleaning Services, Extended Stay, Fax and Copy Service, Fitness Center, Free High-Speed Wireless Internet Access, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, Free Local Phone Calls, Gift Shop, In-Room Hair Dryers, In-Room Iron & Ironing Board, Indoor Pool, Interior Corridors, Laundry, Meeting Space, Meeting/Banquet Space, Microwaves Refrigerators available, Spa, Suites, Whirlpool
59. Hampton Inn Bessemer 4910 Civic Lane, Bessemer 35022-7820 205-425-2010 / FAX 205-425-1630 www.bessemer.hamptoninn.com, 84 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Interior Corridors, Laundry, Meeting Space, Pool 60. Hampton Inn Colonnade 3400 Colonnade Pkwy, Birmingham 35243-2355 205-967-0002 / FAX 205-969-0901 www.birminghamcolonnade.hamptoninn.com, 133 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Business Center, Complimentary Airport Shuttle Service, Complimentary Hot Breakfast Bar, Fax and Copy Service, Fitness Center, Free High-Speed Internet Access, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, Free In-Room Movie Channel, Free Local Phone Calls, Free Parking, Free USA Today Newspaper, In-Room Hair Dryers, In-Room Iron & Ironing Board, Interior Corridors, Meeting Space, No Pets Allowed, Pool 61. Hampton Inn Fultondale 1716 Fulton Rd, Fultondale 35068-1669 205-439-6700 / FAX 205-439-6701 www.fultondale.hamptoninn.com, 65 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Business Center, Complimentary Continental Breakfast, Dry Cleaning Services, Fax and Copy Service, Interior Corridors, Laundry, Meeting Space, Pool 62. Hampton Inn I-65/Lakeshore Drive 30 State Farm Parkway, Birmingham 35209 205-313-2060 / FAX 205-313-2070, www.birminghamlakeshoredrive.hamptoninn.com, 97 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Business Center, Complimentary Hot Breakfast Bar, Dry Cleaning Services, Fax and Copy Service, Fitness Center, Free High-Speed Wireless Internet Access, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, Free Local Phone Calls, In-Room Hair Dryers, In-Room Iron & Ironing Board, Interior Corridors, Meeting Space, Microwaves, Refrigerators available, No Pets Allowed, Outdoor Pool Seasonal, Voice Mail 63. Hampton Inn Leeds 310 Rex Lake Road, Leeds 35094, 205-702-4141 www.birminghamleeds.hamptoninn.com, 105 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Bus Parking, Cable TV w/HBO, Complimentary Hot Breakfast Bar, Complimentary Newspapers, Concierge Service, Data ports, Fitness Center, Free High-Speed Internet Access, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, Free In-Room Movie Channel, Free Parking, Gift Shop, High Speed Internet Access, In-Room Hair Dryers, In-Room Iron & Ironing Board, Laundry, No Pets Allowed, Pool, Video games featured on TV, Voice Mail
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64. Hampton Inn Mountain Brook 2731 Hwy 280 South, Mountain Brook 35223-2405 205-870-7822 / FAX 205-871-7610 www.birminghammountainbrook.hamptoninn.com, 130 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Cable TV, Complimentary Hot Breakfast Bar, Complimentary Newspapers, Dry Cleaning Services, Extended Stay, Fax and Copy Service, Fitness Center, Free High-Speed Internet Access, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, Free In-Room Movie Channel, Free Local Phone Calls, Free USA Today Newspaper, In-Room Hair Dryers, In-Room Iron & Ironing Board, Interior Corridors, Laundry, Manager’s Reception, Meeting Space, Outdoor Pool Seasonal, Pool, Voice Mail 65. Hampton Inn Trussville 1940 Edwards Lake Road, Birmingham 35235 35235-3716, 205-655-9777 / FAX 205-655-0181 www.birminghamtrussville.hamptoninn.com, 78 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Dry Cleaning Services, Fax and Copy Service, Fitness Center, Free High-Speed Internet Access, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, Free In-Room Movie Channel, Free Local Phone Calls, Free USA Today Newspaper, In-Room Iron & Ironing Board, Interior Corridors, Meeting Space, Pool 66. Hassinger Daniels Mansion Bed & Breakfast Built in 1898 by William Hassinger, president of the Southern Iron and Steel Company 2028 Highland Ave. S., Birmingham 35205 205-930-5800, www.hassingerdanielsbb.com, 10 rooms 67. Hilton Birmingham Perimeter Park 8 Perimeter Park S, Birmingham 35243-2326 18 | BIRMINGHAM TOURIST GUIDE
205-967-2700 / FAX 205-972-8603 www.birminghamperimeterpark.hilton.com 205 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Business Center, Cable TV, Complimentary Airport Shuttle Service, Data ports, Dry Cleaning Services, Fax and Copy Service, Fitness Center, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, Gift Shop, High Speed Internet Access by Request (Charge), In-Room Hair Dryers, In-Room Iron & Ironing Board, Interior Corridors, Laundry, Lounge, Meeting Space, No Pets Allowed, Outdoor Pool Seasonal, Restaurant, Suites, Two Line Phone, Video games featured on TV, Voice Mail 68. Hilton Garden Inn Birmingham/ Lakeshore
520 Wildwood Circle North, Birmingham 35209-7199 205-314-0274 / FAX 205-314-0275 www.birminghamlakeshoredrive.gardeninn.com, 95 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Business Center, Cable TV, Dry Cleaning Services, Fax and Copy Service, Fitness Center, Free HighSpeed Internet Access, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, Free USA Today Newspaper, Gift Shop, In-Room Hair Dryers, InRoom Iron & Ironing Board, Indoor Pool, Interior Corridors, Laundry, Meeting Space, Microwaves and Refrigerators available, Pool, Restaurant, Suites, Voice Mail 69. Hilton Garden Inn Birmingham/
Trussville
3230 Edwards Lake Parkway, Birmingham 35235 205-655-5222, www.birminghamtrussville.hgi.com, 104 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Business Center, Concierge Service, Data ports, Fax and Copy Service, Fitness Center, Free In-Room Coffee
LODGING
Makers, Gift Shop, High Speed Internet Access, In-Room Hair Dryers, In-Room Iron & Ironing Board, Laundry, Lounge, Microwaves, Refrigerators available, No Pets Allowed, Pool, Room Service, Two Line Phone, Voice Mail 70. Hilton Garden Inn Liberty Park 2090 Urban Center Pkwy., Vestavia Hills 35242 205-503-5220 / FAX 205-503-5221 www.birminghamselibertypark.stayhgi.com, 130 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Business Center, Complimentary Airport Shuttle Service, Dry Cleaning Services, Fax and Copy Service, Fitness Center, Free High-Speed Internet Access, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, Indoor Pool, Interior Corridors, Laundry, Lounge, Meeting Space, Microwaves and Refrigerators available, Restaurant, Suites, Whirlpool 71. Hiway Host Motel 4301 Bessemer Super Hwy, Bessemer, 35020-2494 205-425-4352, 35 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Extended Stay 72. Holiday Inn Airport 5000 Richard Arrington Blvd N, Birmingham 352121497, 205-591-6900 / FAX 205-591-2093 www.holidayinn.com/bhm-airport, 220 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Business Center, Cable TV, Complimentary Airport Shuttle Service, Complimentary Newspapers, Dry Cleaning Services, Fax and Copy Service, Fitness Center, Free High-Speed Internet Access, Free High-Speed Wireless Internet Access, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, Free Local Phone Calls, Free USA Today Newspaper, Gift Shop, InRoom Hair Dryers, In-Room Iron & Ironing Board, Interior Corridors, Laundry, Lounge, Meeting Space, Microwaves, Refrigerators available, No Pets Allowed, Outdoor Pool Seasonal, Seasonal/Gazebo, Pool, Refrigerators, Restaurant, Restaurant/Bar, Studio 1 and 2 Bedroom. Suites, Voice Mail
74. Holiday Inn Express Fultondale 1733 Fulton Rd, Fultondale 35068-1669 205-439-6300 / FAX 205-439-6301 www.hiexpress.com/bhm-fultondale, 67 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Complimentary Continental Breakfast, Fitness Center, Interior Corridors, Kitchenette, Laundry, Pool 75. Holiday Inn Express Hotel &
Suites Bessemer
5001 Academy Drive, Bessemer 35022-5250 205-424-2600 / FAX 205-428-9972 www.hiexpress.com/bessemeral, 63 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Complimentary Continental Breakfast, Free InRoom Coffee Makers, Interior Corridors, Meeting Space, Pool 76. Holiday Inn Express Hotel
& Suites Inverness
156 Resource Center Parkway, Birmingham 35242 205-776-6370 / FAX 205-776-6389 www.hiexpress.com/inverness280, 96 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Business Center, Cable TV, Complimentary Continental Breakfast, Complimentary Newspapers, Dry Cleaning Services, Fax and Copy Service, Fitness Center, Free High-Speed Internet Access, Free High-Speed Wireless Internet Access, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, Free In-Room Movie Channel, Free Local Phone Calls, Free USA Today Newspaper, In-Room Hair Dryers, In-Room Iron & Ironing Board, Indoor Pool, Interior Corridors, Laundry, Manager’s Reception, Meeting Space, Microwaves, Refrigerators available, No Pets Allowed, Suites, Voice Mail
73. Holiday Inn Birmingham - Homewood 492 Wildwood Circle N, Homewood 35209 205-942-6070, www.holidayinn.com/homewoodal, 110 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Business Center, Cable TV, Complimentary Newspapers, Dry Cleaning Services, Fax and Copy Service, Fitness Center, Free High-Speed Internet Access, Free InRoom Coffee Makers, Free Local Phone Calls, Free Parking, In-Room Hair Dryers, In-Room Iron & Ironing Board, Indoor Pool, Interior Corridors, Laundry, Microwaves, Refrigerators available, No Pets Allowed, Whirlpool 8 0 0 . 4 5 8 . 8 0 8 5 | W W W. B I R M I N G H A M . T R AV E L | 1 9
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77. Holiday Inn Express Irondale 811 Old Grants Mill Road, Irondale 35210-1233 205-957-0555 / FAX 205-957-0559 www.birminghameasti20suites.hamptoninn.com, 100 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Business Center, Complimentary Airport Shuttle Service, Complimentary Continental Breakfast, Complimentary Hot Breakfast Bar, Dry Cleaning Services, Extended Stay, Fax and Copy Service, Fitness Center, Free High-Speed Internet Access, Free High-Speed Wireless Internet Access Free InRoom Coffee Makers, Free Local Phone Calls, Free USA Today Newspaper, In-Room Hair Dryers, In-Room Iron & Ironing Board, Interior Corridors, Laundry, Manager’s Reception, Meeting Space, Microwaves, Refrigerators available, No Pets Allowed, Outdoor Pool Seasonal, Pool, Suite 78. Holiday Inn Express Trussville 5911 Valley Road, Trussville 35173-1071 205-655-2700 / FAX 205-655-5500 www.hiexpress.com/trussvilleal, 64 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Business Center, Cable TV, Complimentary Continental Breakfast, Complimentary Newspapers, Dry Cleaning Services, Fax and Copy Service, Fitness Center, Free High-Speed Wireless Internet Access, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, Free In-Room Movie Channel, Free Local Phone Calls, Free USA Today Newspaper, In-Room Hair Dryers, In-Room Iron & Ironing Board, Interior Corridors, Laundry, Meeting Space, No Pets Allowed, Pool, Refrigerators 79. Holiday Inn Hoover/Birmingham 2901 John Hawkins Parkway, Hoover 35244 205-682-2901/FAX 205-682-2910, www.holidayinn.com/ hotels/us/en/hoover/bhmgb/hoteldetail, 112 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Business Center, Fitness Center, Pool, Laundry facilities, Dry Cleaning 80. Homewood Lodge 103 Greensprings Hwy, Birmingham 35209-4903 205-942-1263 / FAX 205-942-1219, 48 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Extended Stay, Kitchenette, Laundry 81. Homewood Suites (Opening summer 2016) 1016 20th Street South, Birmingham 82. Hospitality Inn 2127 7th Avenue South, Birmingham 35233-3105 205-322-0692, 50 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Extended Stay 20 | BIRMINGHAM TOURIST GUIDE
83. Hotel Highland at Five Points South 1023 20th Street South, Birmingham 35205-2622 205-933-9555 / FAX 205-933-6918 www.thehotelhighland.com, 63 rooms ★ AMENITIES: 24-Hour Business Center, Cable TV, Complimentary Continental Breakfast, Concierge Service, Data ports, Dry Cleaning Services, Extended Stay Fax and Copy Service, Fitness Center, Free High-Speed Internet Access, Free High-Speed Wireless Internet Access, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, Free In-Room Movie Channel, Free Local Phone Calls, Free USA Today Newspaper, In-Room Hair Dryers, In-Room Iron & Ironing Board, Interior Corridors, Lounge, Microwaves, Refrigerators available, No Pets Allowed, Suites, Voice Mail 84. Howard Johnson Inn Birmingham 275 Oxmoor Road, Birmingham 35209-4705 205-942-0919 / FAX 205-942-1679 www.hojo.com/HowardJohnson/control/Booking/ property_info?propertyId=02254, 100 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Complimentary Continental Breakfast, Free High-Speed Wireless Internet Access, Free Local Phone Calls, Meeting Space, Outdoor Pool Seasonal 85. Hyatt Place Birmingham/Hoover 2980 John Hawkins Parkway, Birmingham 35244-1087 205-988-8444 / FAX 205-988-8407 www.birminghamhoover.place.hyatt.com, 128 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Complimentary Continental Breakfast, Dry Cleaning Services, Extended Stay, Fax and Copy Service, Fitness Center, Interior Corridors, Kitchenette, Laundry, Meeting Space, Pets Allowed, Pool, Suites 86. Hyatt Regency Birmingham – The Wynfrey Hotel
1000 Riverchase Galleria, Hoover 35244-2399 205-705-1234/ FAX 205-988-4597 http://wynfrey.regency.hyatt.com/en/hotel/home. html, 329 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Business Center, Cable TV, Club Level Rooms with added amenities, Complimentary Airport Shuttle Service, Concierge Service, Data ports, Dry Cleaning Services, Fax and Copy Service, Fitness Center, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, Free Local Phone Calls, Free USA Today Newspaper, Gift Shop, High Speed Internet Access by Request (Charge), In-Room Hair Dryers, In-Room Iron & Ironing Board, In-Room Mini Bar, Interior Corridors, Jacuzzi/Hot Tub, Lounge, Meeting Space, Outdoor Pool Seasonal, Pool, Restaurant/ Bar, Spa, Suites, Video games featured on TV, Voice Mail, Web TV
LODGING FOR LOCATIONS SEE FOLD OUT MAP IN BACK OF GUIDE
87. InTown Suites Central 90 Oxmoor Road, Birmingham 35209-6410 205-945-9154 / FAX 205-290-0306 www.intownsuites.com/detail_hotel.asp?id=3936, 150 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Extended Stay, Kitchenette 88. Intown Suites Birmingham North 1100 Huffman Road, Birmingham 35215-7502 205-856-4929, www.intownsuites.com/detail_hotel. asp?id=3935, 137 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Extended Stay 89. Kings Inn Civic Center/ UAB 1313 Third Avenue North, Birmingham 35203-1730 205-323-8806 / FAX 205-323-5591 www.kingsinnbirmingham.110mb.com, 147 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Extended Stay, Free High-Speed Internet Access, Free Parking, Kitchenette Laundry, Microwaves and Refrigerators available, No Pets Allowed, Outdoor Pool Seasonal, Satellite TV w/premium channels 90. Knights Inn – Bessemer 1121 9th Avenue SW, Bessemer 35022-7802 205-424-9780 / FAX 205-267-3556 www.knightsinn.com/hotels/alabama/bessemer 140 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Complimentary Continental Breakfast, Complimentary Hot Breakfast Bar, Extended Stay, Fax and
Copy Service, Kitchenette, Laundry, Lounge, Meeting Space, Pets Allowed, Pool, Suite 91. La Quinta Inn & Suites - B’ham/
Homewood
60 State Farm Parkway, Homewood 35209-7179 205-290-0150 / FAX 205-290-0850 www.lq.com/lq/reservations, 129 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Extended Stay, Interior Corridors, Laundry, Meeting Space, Pets Allowed, Pool, Restaurant, Suites 92. La Quinta Inn & Suites Fultondale 1207 Boots Blvd, Fultondale 35068 205-949-8700 / FAX 205-949-8701 www.lq.com/lq/properties, 66 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Business Center, Cable TV, Complimentary Continental Breakfast, Data ports, Fitness Center, Free HighSpeed Internet Access, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, Free Local Phone Calls, Free USA Today Newspaper, High Speed Internet Access, In-Room Hair Dryers, In-Room Iron & Ironing Board, Indoor Pool, Laundry, Meeting Space, Microwaves Refrigerators available, Pets Allowed, Voice Mail 93. La Quinta Inn Birmingham/Cahaba
Park South
513 Cahaba Park Circle, Birmingham 35242-5011, 205-995-9990 / FAX 205-995-0563 www.lq.com/lq/properties, 99 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Cable TV, Complimentary Continental 8 0 0 . 4 5 8 . 8 0 8 5 | W W W. B I R M I N G H A M . T R AV E L | 2 1
LOD G I N G
Breakfast, Fax and Copy Service, Fitness Center, Free HighSpeed Internet Access, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, Free USA Today Newspaper, In-Room Hair Dryers, In-Room Iron & Ironing Board, Interior Corridors, Pets Allowed, Voice Mail 94. Microtel Inn & Suites Gardendale 850 Odum Road, Gardendale 35071-4618 800-771-7171 / FAX 205-631-6450 www.microtelinn.com, 81 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Business Center, Cable TV, Extended Stay, Complimentary Continental Breakfast, Complimentary Hot Breakfast Bar, Fax and Copy Service, Free High-Speed Wireless Internet Access, Free Local Phone Calls, Free Long Distance Phone Calls, In-Room Hair Dryers, Interior Corridors, Laundry, Meeting Space, No Pets Allowed, Pool, Suites 95. Microtel Inn & Suites Hoover 500 Jackson Dr, Hoover 35244-1031 205-444-3033 / FAX 205-444-9091 www.hoovermicrotel.com, 59 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Cable TV, Complimentary Continental Breakfast, Fitness Center, Free High-Speed Wireless Internet Access, Free In-Room Movie Channel, Free Local Phone Calls, Free Long Distance Phone Calls, Meeting Space 96. Motel 6 Bessemer 1000 Shiloh Lane, Bessemer 35022-4596 205-426-9646 / FAX 205-426-9305 www.motel6.com/reservations, 121 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Laundry, Pets Allowed, Pool 97. Motel 6 Birmingham 151 Vulcan Road, Birmingham 35209-4701 205-942-9414 / FAX 205-942-9499 www.motel6.com/reservations, 96 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Extended Stay, Pets Allowed 98. Motel 8 Inn 5009 First Avenue North, Birmingham 35212-3101 205-595-1991, 40 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Extended Stay 99. Quality Inn & Suites 707 Key Drive, Birmingham 35242 205-991-1055 / FAX 205-991-2066 www.qualityinn.com/hotel-birmingham-alabama-AL488, 63 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Cable TV, Complimentary Continental Breakfast, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, Free Parking, High Speed Internet Access, In-Room Hair Dryers, In-Room Iron &
22 | BIRMINGHAM TOURIST GUIDE
Ironing Board, Indoor Pool, No Pets Allowed, Refrigerators, Voice Mail 100. Quality Inn Bessemer 5021 Academy Lane, Bessemer 35022-5250 205-428-3194 / FAX 205-428-2690 www.qualityinn.com/hotel-bessemer-alabama-AL465, 60 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Business Center, Complimentary Continental Breakfast, Fax and Copy Service, Fitness Center, Interior Corridors, Pool 101. Quality Inn Homewood 155 Vulcan Rd, Homewood 35209-4701 205-945-9600 / FAX 205-945-5706 www.qualityinn.com, 132 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Business Center, Complimentary Continental Breakfast, Complimentary Newspapers, Fax and Copy Service, Meeting Space, Outdoor Pool Seasonal 102. Quality Inn Airport 3910 Kilgore Memorial Dr, Irondale 35210-1204 205-956-4100 / FAX 205-956-0906 www.qualityinn.com, 70 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Cable TV, Complimentary Hot Breakfast Bar, Complimentary Newspapers, Washer/Dryer onsite, Fax and Copy Service, Free High-Speed Wireless Internet Access, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, Free Local Phone Calls, Free USA Today Newspaper, In-Room Hair Dryers, In-Room Iron & Ironing Board, Meeting Space, Microwaves, Refrigerators available, Outdoor Pool Seasonal/Gazebo 103. Quality Inn Trussville 4730 Norrel Drive, Trussville 35173-2634 205-661-9323 / FAX 205-655-9331 www.qualityinn.com/hotel-trussville-alabama-AL466, 60 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Fitness Center, Interior Corridors, Laundry, Pool, Suites 104. Relax Inn 6101 First Avenue North, Birmingham 35212-1611 205-591-5575 / FAX 205-595-1740, 42 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Extended Stay 105. Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa
4000 Grand Avenue, Birmingham 35226-6201 205-916-7677 / FAX 205-942-7080 www.rossbridgeresort.com, 258 rooms
FOR LOCATIONS SEE FOLD OUT MAP IN BACK OF GUIDE
★ AMENITIES: 24-Hour Business Center, Bus Parking, Cable TV, Complimentary Newspapers, Concierge Service, Data ports, Dry Cleaning Services, Fax and Copy Service, Fitness Center, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, Free In-Room Movie Channel, Free Parking, Free USA Today Newspaper, Gift Shop, High Speed Internet Access by Request (Charge), In-Room Hair Dryers, In-Room Iron & Ironing Board, Indoor Pool, Interior Corridors, Jacuzzi/Hot Tub, Lounge, Meeting Space No Pets Allowed, Outdoor Pool/Gazebo, Refrigerators, Restaurant/ Bar, Satellite TV w/premium channels, Spa, Suites, Two Line Phone, Video games featured on TV, Voice Mail, Whirlpool 106. Residence Inn Birmingham Downtown @ UAB
821 20th Street S, Birmingham 35205-2713 800-331-3131 / FAX 205-731-9596 www.marriott.com/bhmri, 129 rooms ★ AMENITIES: 24-Hour Business Center, All Suites, Complimentary Hot Breakfast Bar, Fitness Center Free, High-Speed Wireless Internet Access, Fully Equipped Kitchens, Manager’s Reception, Outdoor Pool Seasonal, Studio 1 and 2 Bdrm. Suites, Wireless Internet (Public) 107. Residence Inn Homewood 50 State Farm Parkway, Homewood 35209-7179 205-943-0044 / FAX 205-943-0668
LODGING
www.marriott.com/BHMHM, 120 rooms ★ AMENITIES: All Suites, Complimentary Continental Breakfast, Extended Stay, Fitness Center, Kitchen, Laundry, Pool 108. Residence Inn Hoover 2725 John Hawkins Parkway, Hoover 35244-4004 205-733-1655 / FAX 205-733-1656 www.residenceinnbirminghamhoover.com, 118 rooms ★ AMENITIES: All Suites, Business Center, Cable TV, Cable TV w/HBO, Dry Cleaning Services, Fitness Center, Free High-Speed Wireless Internet Access, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, Fully Equipped Kitchens, High Speed Internet Access, Hot Breakfast Buffet, In-Room Hair Dryers, Kitchen, Laundry, Manager’s Reception, Meeting Space, Outdoor Pool Seasonal, Pets Allowed, Refrigerators 109. Rime Garden Inn & Suites 5320 Beacon Drive, Birmingham 35210-2820 205-951-1200 / FAX 205-951-1692 www.rimehotel.com, 127 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Business Center, Cable TV w/HBO, Complimentary Airport Shuttle Service, Complimentary Hot Breakfast Bar, Complimentary Newspapers, Complimentary Shuttle - EWTN, Extended Stay, Free High-Speed Wireless Internet Access, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, Fully Equipped Kitchens, High Speed Internet Access, In-Room Hair Dryers, 8 0 0 . 4 5 8 . 8 0 8 5 | W W W. B I R M I N G H A M . T R AV E L | 2 3
LOD G I N G
In-Room Iron & Ironing Board, Laundry, Lounge, Meeting/ Banquet Space, Off-site Fitness Center, Outdoor Pool Seasonal, Pets Allowed, Restaurant, Wireless Internet (Public) 110. Sheraton Birmingham Hotel 2101 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd N, Birmingham 352031101, 205-324-5000 / FAX 205-307-3045 www.sheraton.com/birmingham, 770 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Business Center, Cable TV, Club Level Rooms with added amenities, Complimentary Airport Shuttle Service, Data ports, Fitness Center, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, High Speed Internet Access by Request (Charge), In-Room Hair Dryers, In-Room Iron & Ironing Board, Indoor Pool, Interior Corridors, Laundry, Meeting Space, Pay Self Parking Facilities, Refrigerators, Restaurant, Suites, Voice Mail, Whirlpool 111. Siesta Motel 2510 Crestwood Boulevard, Birmingham 35210-2094 205-956-1400, 99 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Extended Stay, Pool, Suite 112. Sky Inn 6000 First Avenue North, Birmingham 35212-1610 205-592-0153, 30 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Extended Stay 113. Sleep Inn Bessemer 1259 Greenmor Drive, Bessemer 35022-6437 205-424-0000 / FAX 205-424-1971, www.sleepinn. 24 | BIRMINGHAM TOURIST GUIDE
com/hotel-bessemer-alabama-AL445, 73 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Business Center, Complimentary Continental Breakfast, Fax and Copy Service, Interior Corridors, Meeting Space, Pool 114. Southern Comfort Motel 725 Third Avenue West, Birmingham 35204-4018 205-785-9823 / FAX 205-785-9823 ext 214, 25 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Extended Stay 115. Springhill Suites Birmingham Downtown at UAB 2024 4th Avenue S, Birmingham 35205, 205-322-8600 www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/bhmsd, 147 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Complimentary Continental Breakfast, Free High-Speed Wireless Internet Access, Indoor Pool, Meeting Space 116. Springhill Suites by Marriott 3950 Colonnade Pkwy, Birmingham 35243 205-969-8099 / FAX 205-969-8098 www.marriott.com/BHMCO, 120 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Continental Breakfast, Complimentary Hot Breakfast Bar, Complimentary Newspapers, Concierge Service, Dry Cleaning Services, Fax and Copy Service, Fitness Center, Free High-Speed Internet Access, Free High-Speed Wireless Internet Access, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, Free In-Room Movie Channel, In-Room Hair Dryers, In-Room Iron & Ironing Board, Interior Corridors, Kitchen,
LODGING
Laundry, Manager’s Reception, Meeting Space, Microwaves, Refrigerators available, Outdoor Pool Seasonal, Refrigerators, Two Line Phone, Voice Mail 117. StudioPLUS Deluxe Studios -
Birmingham Inverness
101 Cahaba Park Cir., Birmingham 35242 205-408-0107 / FAX 205-408-6072 www.studioplus.com, 77 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Data ports, Fax and Copy Service, Free Local Phone Calls, High Speed Internet Access, In-Room Iron & Ironing Board, Kitchen, Laundry, Outdoor Pool Seasonal, Pets Allowed, Studio 1 and 2 Bdrm. Suites, Voice Mail 118. Sun Inn 1573 Bessemer Road, Birmingham 35208-4094 205-925-7868, 33 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Extended Stay 119. Sun Suites of Birmingham 424 Commons Dr, Homewood 35209-6963 205-942-1155 / FAX 205-942-1685 www.sunsuites.com, 135 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Extended Stay, Fax and Copy Service, Kitchenette, Laundry, No Pets Allowed 120. Super 8 Homewood Birmingham Area
140 Vulcan Road, Birmingham 35209-4702 205-945-9888 / FAX 205-945-9928 www.super8.com, 95 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Cable TV, Complimentary Continental Breakfast, Data ports, Fax and Copy Service, Fitness Center, Free HighSpeed Wireless Internet Access, Free In-Room Coffee Makers, Free In-Room Movie Channel, Free Local Phone Calls, Free Parking, In-Room Hair Dryers, In-Room Iron & Ironing Board, Interior Corridors, Laundry, Microwaves, Refrigerators available, Pets Allowed, Suite, Video games featured on TV, Voice Mail 121. The Redmont Hotel 2101 5th Avenue North, Birmingham 205-324-2101, www.theredmonthotel.com 122. The Westin Birmingham 2221 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N, 35203, 205-307-3600 www.starwoodhotels.com/westin, 294 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Business Center, Outdoor Pool, Wireless High Speed Internet Access in Public Areas; Fitness Center; Meeting Space; Restaurant
123. Tourway Inn 1101 Sixth Avenue North, Birmingham 35203-1503 205-252-3921 / FAX 205-252-3921, 70 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Extended Stay 124. TownePlace Suites by Marriott Homewood
500 Wildwood Circle North, Homewood 35209-7199 205-943-0114 / FAX 205-943-0115 www.marriott.com/bhmth, 128 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Business Center, Complimentary Continental Breakfast, Dry Cleaning Services, Extended Stay, Fax and Copy Service, Fitness Center, Free High-Speed Internet Access, Fully Equipped Kitchens, Kitchenette, Laundry, Pets Allowed, Pool, Studio 1 and 2 Bdrm. Suites 125. Travelers Rest Motel 1066 Forestdale Blvd., Forestdale, 35214-3856 205.798.3831/FAX 205.987.2233 ext. 311, 33 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Extended Stay 126. Tutwiler Hotel Hampton
Inn & Suites
2021 Park Place, Birmingham 35203-2717 205-322-2100 / FAX 205-325-1183 www.thetutwilerhotel.com, 149 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Business Center, Complimentary Airport Shuttle Service, Complimentary Breakfast, Fax and Copy Services, Fitness Center, Free local phone calls, Interior Corridors, Laundry, Lounge, Meeting Space, No Pets Allowed, Restaurant, Suites, Valet Services, Voice Mail 127. USA Economy Lodge Homewood 400 Beacon Parkway W, Birmingham, 35209-3106 205-942-2031, www.usaeconomyhotels.com, 190 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Extended Stay 128. USA Economy Lodge Irondale 7941 Crestwood Blvd., Birmingham 35210-2697 205-956-8211 / FAX 205-956-1234 www.usaeconomyhotels.com, 206 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Cable TV, Extended Stay, Fitness Center, Free Parking, Kitchenette, Laundry, Outdoor Pool Seasonal 129. Value Place Hotel 5535 Academy Drive, Bessemer 35022 205-428-4140 / FAX 205-424-7128 www.valueplace.com, 124 rooms ★ AMENITIES: Extended Stay
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A GUIDE TO BIRMINGHAM ATTRACTIONS
WHAT TO SEE
Wedgwood to water parks. Zip lines to zebras. Art, science and history museums. Civil War and Civil Rights. Birmingham attractions address all interests and encompass an assortment of activities. 26 | BIRMINGHAM TOURIST GUIDE
PHOTO: MHI PHOTOGRAPHY LLC.
FOR LOCATIONS SEE FOLD OUT MAP IN BACK OF GUIDE
ATTRACTIONS
1. Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame
Outside on the sidewalk, visitors can feel the rhythm. From the boogie-woogie beginnings of Clarence “Pinetop” Smith to the velvet crooning of Nat King Cole, legendary jazz greats are immortalized in the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame, within the historic Carver Theatre. Interactive exhibits also recall the contributions of Sun Ra and His Intergalactic Space Arkestra, along with Duke Ellington, Lionel Hampton and Erskine Hawkins. Open Tuesday – Saturday, 10am – 5pm. Admission. 1631 4th Avenue North. 205-254-2731. www.jazzhall.com
2. Alabama Museum of Health Sciences
Located on the campus of the University of Alabama at Birmingham, the museum is noted for its collection of small ivory 16th and 17th century anatomical models, a collection of wax moulage and an antique iron lung. The museum also houses a collection of rare and important medical books and manuscripts dating to the Middle Ages. Open Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm. Lister Hill Library, University of Alabama at Birmingham. 1700 University Blvd. 205934-4475. www.uab.edu/historical/museum.html
3. Alabama Sports Hall of Fame
Displays include memorabilia from the late University of Alabama Coach Paul “Bear” Bryant, a tribute to Olympic great Jesse Owens, and other displays showcasing the careers of Alabama-connected sports figures such as Hank Aaron, Willie Mays and Joe Louis. Open Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm. Admission. 2150 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. 205-323-6665. www.ashof.org
4. Alabama Theatre
Built in 1927, the Alabama Theatre is one of the nation’s last operating movie palaces, featuring first-run and revival films, concerts and other special events. The “Mighty Wurlitzer” organ still rises from the orchestra pit and is often played to accompany silent films. Tours by appointment. Call for special events schedule. Admission. 1817 3rd Avenue North. 205-252-2262 www.alabamatheatre.com
5. Alabama Veteran’s Memorial
Amid peaceful Alabama woodlands, you can peruse the names of Alabamians lost to war. A time line in the Memorial walkway outlines historic events of the 20th and 21st centuries, visitors will find descriptions of Alabama’s 23 Medal of Honor recipients of the 20th century, and in the courtyard, Medal of Honor stories appear on columns with artwork and letters. I-459, exit Liberty Park. 205-985-9488, www.alabamaveterans.org
Alabama Wine Trail
Wine enthusiasts are delighted to find vineyards and wineries in the Birmingham area. Be sure to sample the robust muscadine and delicate peach wines made from local fruit. Call for information on tours, wine tastings and hours of operation.
6. Vizzini Farms Winery
800 Highway 87, Calera (exit 234 off I-65 S). 205-685-0655. www.vizzinifarmswinery.com
7. Ozan Vineyard & Cellars
173 Highway 301, Calera (exit 228 off I-65 S). 205-668.6926. www.ozanwine.com
8. Morgan Creek Vineyards
181 Morgan Creek Lane, Harpersville (26 miles on Hwy. 280 E.) 205-672-2053. www.morgancreekwinery.com
9. Aldridge Gardens
Aldridge Gardens, a 30-acre natural garden with a 5-acre lake, beautiful hydrangeas and 8 0 0 . 4 5 8 . 8 0 8 5 | W W W. B I R M I N G H A M . T R AV E L | 2 7
ATTRACTIONS 12. Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum
now features the largest Frank Fleming Collection in the area, an art gallery on site and sculptures throughout the property. Aldridge Gardens is truly Birmingham area’s “best kept secret.” Aldrige Gardens, Nature and Art in Balance. 3530 Lorna Road, Hoover. 205-682-8019 or www.aldridgegardens.com
10. American Village
This Colonial-style village is set on more than 100 rural acres, just south of Birmingham. Costumed interpreters guide visitors on a trip back in time to America’s journey for independence. Bring your imagination and sense of adventure. Tours Monday – Friday at 10am, noon and 2pm. Special programs for groups by appointment. Admission. 3727 Highway 119. 205-665-3535.3 www.americanvillage.org
11. Arlington Antebellum Home and Gardens
The city’s only antebellum home, the mansion is fully restored and contains a fine collection of antiques and decorative arts including 19th century furniture, textiles, silver and paintings. During the Civil War, Arlington Antebellum home was spared from destruction when Union troops used the home as headquarters. Open Tuesday – Saturday, 10am – 4pm; Sunday, 1pm – 4pm (tickets sold until 3pm) Admission. 331 Cotton Avenue SW. 205-780-5656. www.informationbirmingham.com/arlington 28 | BIRMINGHAM TOURIST GUIDE
Home to the world’s best motorcycle collection, the museum now has more than 1200 vintage and modern motorcycles and racecars and the largest collection of Lotus cars as well as other significant makes. The collection is the largest of its kind in the world. Approximately 600 of the 1200 motorcycles in the collection are on display at any given time. These bikes range from 1902 to current-year production. Common street bikes are represented, as well as rare Gran Prix race machinery. The museum is adjacent to Barber Motorsports Park, a worldclass 2.3 mile road course and home to the Honda Grand Prix of Alabama. Open Monday – Saturday, 10am – 5pm; Sunday, noon – 5pm. Admission. 6030 Barber Motorsports Pkwy. 205-699-7275. www.barbermuseum.org
13. Birmingham Botanical Gardens
The glory of nature in the heart of the city— that’s the promise of the 67-acre Birmingham Botanical Gardens. The gardens are Alabama’s largest living museum with more than 10,000 different plants in 25 themed areas. The gardens also have more than 30 works of original outdoor sculpture and miles of walking paths. The Birmingham Botanical Gardens also has the largest public horticulture library in the U.S., conservatories, a wildflower garden, two rose gardens and Japanese Gardens with a traditionally crafted tea house. The gift shop is a special treat. Open sunrise to sunset daily. 2612 Lane Park Road. 205-414-3900. www.bbgardens.org
14. Birmingham Civil Rights Heritage Trail The Birmingham Civil Rights Heritage Trail winds through downtown, marking significant locations along Civil Rights march routes. Designed as a self-guided tour, the route includes signs marking actual civil rights events that occurred on the very streets that are a part of this trail. Beginning at Kelly Ingram Park, corner of 6th Avenue North and 16th Street. Follow maps on signs.
15. Birmingham Civil Rights Institute
Richly detailed exhibits in the Civil Rights Institute reveal slices of black and white life in Alabama from the late 1800s to the present. A
ATTRACTIONS
series of galleries tells the stories of daily life for African-Americans in the state and the nation and how dramatically different it was from the lives white people of that era took for granted. The powerful Movement Gallery presents the Civil Rights Movement from 1955 to 1963. Here a picture emerges of the bad old days of “Bombingham,” a reference to the relentless violence that rocked the city in the late 1950s and early ‘60s. In the final exhibits, the Processional Gallery uses life-size figures representing all ages and races to portray the “walk to freedom.” Open Tuesday – Saturday, 10am – 5pm; Sunday, 1pm – 5pm. Admission. 520 16th Street North. 205-328-9696. www.bcri.org
16. Birmingham Museum of Art
The Birmingham Museum of Art has one of the finest collections in the Southeast. More than 24,000 objects represent a rich panorama of cultures, including Asian, European, American, African, Pre-Columbian and Native American. Highlights include the museum’s collection of Asian art, considered the finest and most comprehensive in the Southeast, and its collection of Vietnamese ceramics, one of the finest in the world; a remarkable Kress collection of Renais30 | BIRMINGHAM TOURIST GUIDE
FOR LOCATIONS SEE FOLD OUT MAP IN BACK OF GUIDE
sance and Baroque paintings, sculpture, and decorative arts from the late 13th century to the 1750s; the collection of 18th century European decorative arts, which includes superior examples of English ceramics and French furniture; and the museum’s world-renowned collection of Wedgwood, the largest outside of England. Excellent café. Open Tuesday – Saturday, 10am – 5pm; Sunday, noon – 5pm. Donations welcome. 2000 Rev. Abraham Woods, Jr. Blvd., 205-254-2565. www.artsbma.org
17. Birmingham Public Library
The main library is made up of two stunning buildings, the East Building with its dramatic atrium and the 1927 Linn-Henley Research Library with its beautiful wall murals. Hundreds of visitors come to the main library each year to access their extensive genealogical resources. Open Monday – Tuesday, 9am – 8pm; Wednesday – Saturday, 9am – 6pm; Sunday, 2pm – 6pm. 2100 Park Place. 205-226-3600. www.bplonline.org
18. Birmingham Race Course
A spacious pari-mutuel racing facility, the Birmingham Race Course is open year-round. PHOTOGRAPH: TED TUCKER
ATTRACTIONS Patrons enjoy live greyhound racing and simulcast events from the country’s top thoroughbred and greyhound racetracks. With more than 200 simulcast races on Saturday alone, the Birmingham Race Course gives the ardent handicapper the chance to hit the big one. Must be 19 or older to play. Open daily 11am – 1 am. 1000 John Rogers Drive. 205-838-7500. www.birminghamracecourse.com
19. Birmingham Zoo
THE STORYTELLER IS A SOUTHSIDE LANDMARK Before the 1990s, the fountain in historic Five Points South was pretty unremarkable. Oh sure, there was the stunning backdrop of Highlands United Methodist Church, but the fountain itself wasn’t much to look at. All that changed in 1991 when a fantasyland of beautiful bronze animal characters entered the fountain. The creation, called “The Storyteller,” is the charming scene of a ram man telling stories to woodland animals. Rabbits, frogs, deer and dogs listen with rapt attention to the teller’s tale. The fountain sculpture was designed by nationally renowned Birmingham artist Frank Flemming. Visitors to the city are enchanted by this peaceful scene of love and sharing. It’s a favorite backdrop for tourists taking souvenir photographs. 20th Street between 10th and 11th Avenues South
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One of the state’s most popular attractions, the Birmingham Zoo is an ever-evolving adventure. Visitors come from around the Southeast to see shows such as the Rhino Encounter, the Giraffe Feedings, the Lorikeet Aviary, the Predator Zone and the Sea Lion Splash Show. The zoo is blazing new trails in elephant conservation with the opening of Trails of Africa. The initiative designates the Birmingham Zoo as a national leader in the care and conservation of threatened elephants. Trails of Africa is a mixed-species exhibit that includes a bull elephant herd, red river hogs, giraffes, wildebeest, zebras and more. Concessions and dining on site. Open daily 9am – 5pm. Extended hours for special events. Admission. 2630 Cahaba Road. 205-879-0409. www.birminghamzoo.com
20. Eternal Word Television Network – EWTN
One of the best known religious sites in Birmingham is EWTN, the Eternal Word Television Network, founded by Mother Mary Angelica, broadcasting daily from the grounds of Our Lady of the Angels Monastery. Mother Angelica hosted “Mother Angelica Live!” on EWTN until she suffered a debilitating stroke in 2001. Today daily Mass, music, news and devotionals are broadcast round the clock to more than 230 million television households in more than 140 countries and territories. Tours by appointment only. 205-271-2900. www.ewtn.com
21. Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum
Alabama’s official railroad museum, the Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum has operating standard gauge and narrow gauge trains and two restored depots housing a good collection PHOTOGRAPH: JEFFREY GREENBERG
ATTRACTIONS
of railroad artifacts. Also on the grounds is a collection of railway cars, locomotives and cabooses. Train rides available—call for dates and times. Museum open Tuesday – Saturday, 9am – 4pm. Donations welcome. 1919 9th Street, Calera. 205-668-3435. www.hodrrm.org
22. Kelly Ingram Park
Called a “Place of Revolution and Reconciliation,” Kelly Ingram Park in Birmingham’s Civil Rights District is adjacent to the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute and historic 16th Street Baptist Church. The park served as a staging
area for demonstrations in the early 1960s, including the ones in which police dogs and fire hoses were turned on marchers. Images of those attacks haunted Birmingham in the decades that followed, but they were the same images that were instrumental in overturning legal segregation. An audio tour, available via your cell phone, takes you on a journey through the most dramatic days of the Civil Rights Movement in Birmingham. Bounded by 16th and 17th Streets and 5th and 6th Avenues North.
23. McWane Science Center
Four floors of hands-on exhibits and an IMAX Dome Theatre are all part of the fun of learning at McWane Science Center. Celebrating science and discovery, the exhibits include everything from dinosaurs to space travel. Play tunes with your feet on the Giant Piano, and learn about gravity with a daring ride on the High Cycle. Pet the sharks and stingrays in the Shark & Ray
COME HANG OUT
BIG GUY Breathtaking City Views
World’s Largest Cast Iron Statue Edu-taining Park and Museum MUSEUM MON–SAT 10AM–6PM SUN 12PM–6PM OBSERVATION TOWER MON–SAT 10AM–10PM SUN 12PM–10PM
visitvulcan.com 1701 Valley View Drive
Birmingham, AL
205.933.1409 8 0 0 . 4 5 8 . 8 0 8 5 | W W W. B I R M I N G H A M . T R AV E L | 3 3
ATTRACTIONS Touch Tank, and check out the Zoetrope for visual illusions of motion from still pictures. Open September – May, Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm; Saturday, 10am – 6pm; Sunday, noon – 6pm. June – August, Monday – Saturday, 10am – 6pm; Sunday, noon – 6pm. Admission. 200 19th Street North. 205-714-8300. www.mcwane.org
24. Mercedes-Benz US International Visitors Center
SMALL GEM IS A BIG TREAT When planning your Birmingham itinerary, be sure to include time to visit Aldridge Gardens in the suburb of Hoover. This 30-acre botanical spread is widely known for its hydrangeas and its collection of art. The signature flower of the gardens is the Snowflake Hydrangea, developed and propagated by noted horticulturalist Eddie Aldridge. (Yes, this is his garden.) Camellias and other native Alabama plants landscape this lush wooded hideaway. In 2012, the gardens acquired the largest collection of Frank Fleming sculptures available for public viewing. A local collector donated 19 of the renowned Alabama sculptor’s unusual and playful bronze pieces. Opened in 2002, the young gardens also have a six-acre lake with a walking trail, along with an event venue and outdoor pavilion. In addition to plant sales, concerts and bird walks, Aldridge Gardens also hosts Plein Air painting exhibitions that attract a range of artists and viewers. It is the blending of art and nature that makes this a gem of an attraction to complement your visit in Birmingham.
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Mercedes-Benz US International (MBUSI) in nearby Vance, builds the M-Class, the R-Class and the GL-Class vehicles. The visitors center, the first one of its kind outside Germany, displays the star studded history of DaimlerBenz. This architectural showcase brings to life the company’s long-held vision of producing the most excellent automobiles in the world. Much more than a museum, the visitors center moves people along a multimedia path through the past, present and future of automotive technology. Visitors Center open Monday – Friday, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm. Admission for factory tours (available by reservation only) 11 Mercedes Drive, Vance, Alabama. 205-507-2252. www.mbusi.com
25. Oak Mountain State Park
More outdoor adventure can be found at Alabama’s largest state park. The 10,000-acre park has a sandy beach area fronting the lake, rental boats and fishing equipment, an 18-hole golf course, and some of the best mountain biking trails in the Southeast. The Wildlife Center and Treetop Nature Trail give visitors up-close views of hawks and owls that cannot be released into the wild. Overnight accommodations also are available within the park. Open every day, 7am – 5pm. Admission. 200 Terrace Drive. 205-620-2520. www.dcnr.state.al.us
26. Peanut Depot
That tantalizing aroma wafting down historic Morris Avenue comes from peanuts toasting in antique roasters at the Peanut Depot. This is a must-see stop for visitors, if only to admire the magnificent old machinery while the children feed pigeons along the cobblestone streets. Open Monday – Friday, 8am – 5:30pm;
ATTRACTIONS Saturday, 9am – 1pm. 2016 Morris Ave. 205-251-3314. www.peanutdepot.com
27. Pepper Place Saturday Market
(seasonal) April – December The Pepper Place Saturday Market is a muchanticipated weekly event, taking place Saturday mornings from early spring through late fall. The region’s farming families converge on a lot in the Lakeview District to sell fresh vegetables and flowers, fresh-baked breads, cakes and pies, and even fresh honey. Local musicians and Birmingham’s finest chefs join the farming community and market patrons for entertainment and cooking demonstrations. A former Dr. Pepper bottling plant, Pepper Place is also known for its shops that have made it a premier design center. 2829 2nd Avenue South. 205-802-2100. www.pepperplacemarket.com
28. Rickwood Field
Built in 1910, Rickwood Field is America’s old-
Courtesy: J Woodbery
Celebrate
Courtesy: Larry O. Gay
Discover
ALDRIDGE
GARDENS NATURE AND ART IN BALANCE ALDRIDGEGARDENS.COM
3530 Lorna Road Hoover, Alabama 35216 205.682.8019
Retreat
Courtesy: Larry O. Gay
Admire
Nestled in the heart of Hoover, Alabama, Aldridge Gardens is a 30-acre premier nature and art garden in the Southeast. A six-acre lake is embraced by a walking trail adorned with many varieties of hydrangeas, camellias and other native Alabama plants. That natural beauty provides a perfect backdrop for weddings and special events. Throughout the year, visitors also enjoy the art gallery, classes, plant sales, summer camps, concerts, a gift shop and more.
Open daily 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Members only 5-7 p.m. Admission is free except for events. 8 0 0 . 4 5 8 . 8 0 8 5 | W W W. I N B I R M I N G H A M . O RG | 3 5
ATTRACTIONS
est baseball park. During its heyday, Rickwood hosted baseball greats such as Jackie Robinson, Ty Cobb, Babe Ruth, Lorenzo “Piper” Davis, Willie Mays and “Shoeless” Joe Jackson. Friends and fans eagerly await the annual Rickwood Classic, a game that pits the AA Birmingham Barons against a regular Southern League rival. Team members dress in vintage uniforms, and people come from around the country to celebrate baseball history. The authenticity of Rickwood is being carefully preserved by the Friends of Rickwood Field, a non-profit organization devoted to the restoration and upkeep of the historic ball field. Open Monday – Friday, 8am – 5pm. Check events schedule for expanded hours. 1137 2nd Avenue West. 205-458-8161. www.rickwood.com
29. Sixteenth Street Baptist Church National Historic Landmark
The Sixteenth Street Baptist Church is Birmingham’s most famous Civil Rights landmark. On a September Sunday morning in 1963, four African-American schoolgirls were in the basement of the church just prior to the worship service. A bomb set by Ku Klux Klansmen ripped through that side of the church, killing 11-year-old Denise McNair, Carole Robertson, Cynthia Wesley and Addie Mae Collins, all 14 years old. The bombing was a turning point in the status of race relations locally and nationally. Now a National Historic Landmark, the church is a reminder of man’s inhumanity and his capacity for love and forgiveness. The sanctuary of the church contains a massive stained glass window
WALKING TOUR Birmingham is a very good place for those who like to learn a city on foot. Along this downtown walking tour, people discover historic churches and theaters, wonderful shops selling everything from vintage clothing to hot roasted peanuts, and interesting arts and architecture in between. Go to www.birmingham.travel, click on Walking Tours, and off you go! (Tour copy courtesy of Grey Brennan, Alabama Tourism Department)
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ATTRACTIONS
of Christ, given in memoriam from the people of Wales following the bombing. Tours by appointment. Donations welcome. 1530 6th Avenue North. 205-251-9402. www.16thstreetbaptist.org
30. Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark
Sloss is a 32-acre blast furnace plant where iron was made for nearly 100 years. Now a museum of history and industry, the site preserves a collection of machinery, buildings and industrial structures. These artifacts typify the first 100 years of Birmingham’s history and the technology that drove America’s rise to world industrial dominance. Sloss is the only 20th century blast furnace in the country being preserved and interpreted as a museum. Additional interest at Sloss is the speculation that the furnaces are haunted by a former foundryman. Open Tuesday – Saturday, 10am – 4pm; Sunday, noon – 4pm. Donations welcome. 20 32nd Street North. 205-324-1911. www.slossfurnaces.com
31. Splash Adventure Waterpark
Alabama’s greatest water adventure! Create water fun your way, whether it’s relaxing by the wave pool and enjoying the lazy river or amping up the excitement with monster slides, water38 | BIRMINGHAM TOURIST GUIDE
based obstacle course, water maze, Zip Line and more! Experience special events throughout the season, such as dive-in movies! Great for the family or a larger group outing. 4599 Alabama Adventure Pkwy. Located off Exit 110 at I-459 & I-20. 205-481-4750. www.SplashAdventureWaterpark.com
32. Southern Museum of Flight
The Southern Museum of Flight is dedicated to investigating, preserving and promoting the rich stories of Southern aviation. Among the top exhibits are the Korean War jets, the Tuskegee Airmen diorama, the Lake Murray B-25, and the Vietnam War helicopters. Ship models and full-size aircraft carriers also are in the collection. Open Tuesday – Saturday, 9:30am – 4:30pm. Admission. 4343 73rd Street North. 205-833-8226. www.southernmuseumofflight.org
33. Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park
With more than 1,500 acres for hiking and camping, Tannehill is well suited for outdoor recreation. The old ironworks and a collection of 19th century buildings give visitors a glimpse into life in Alabama in the 1800s. Steeped in history, Tannehill has a cotton gin, a pioneer
ATTRACTIONS farm, a working gristmill and a country store, along with the Iron and Steel Museum with artifacts from Alabama’s iron industry heritage. From spring through fall, visitors find blacksmithing, milling and many other activities underway in the park. The third weekend of each month, from March through November, shoppers and swappers come from near and far to Trade Days in search of quilts, clothing, jewelry, knives, furniture and other treasures. Open daily 7am – sunset. Admission. 12632 Confederate Pkwy. 205-477-5711. www.tannehill.org
34. Vulcan Park and Museum
Vulcan is the largest cast iron statue in the world and Birmingham’s city symbol. Standing high
atop Red Mountain, the 56-foot-high statue has an observation balcony on its pedestal for a panoramic view of the city. Vulcan is patterned after the mythical Roman god of the forge, a nod to the city’s powerful position in the iron and steel industry in the first part of the 20th century. The statue was created as Birmingham’s exhibit in the 1904 World’s Fair in St. Louis and won the exposition’s grand prize. The museum at Vulcan has interactive exhibits and displays that portray the region’s history and progress. Museum open Monday – Saturday, 10am – 6pm; Sunday, 1pm – 6pm. Observation balcony open Monday – Saturday, 10am – 10pm; Sunday, 1pm – 10pm. Admission. 1701 Valley View Drive. 205-933-1409. www.visitvulcan.com
IT’S NOW OFFICIAL AT BARBER MUSEUM Birmingham loves its inventory of superlatives. Vulcan is the world’s largest cast iron statue. Rickwood is the country’s oldest baseball park. And now we have brand new bragging rights. Birmingham is home to the world’s largest motorcycle museum. Guinness World Records recently declared that Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum holds that title. Birmingham businessman and longtime motorcycle enthusiast George Barber started the museum in a smallish warehouse on the city’s southside. When he outgrew that space, he decided to do something splendid for the Birmingham area. He built a five-story, glass-fronted museum and invited the public to see his collection. And come they have. Last year alone, the museum drew more than 270,000 visitors from around the world to see nearly 1,400 vehicles on display. And we won’t even get into what Mr. Barber has done for Birmingham with the adjacent Barber Motorsports Park. www.barbermuseum.org
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ATTRACTIONS
T HE B I R MI N G HAM C I VI L R I G HTS D I ST R I C T
A Must-See for Visitors THOUGH THE EVENTS OF THE 1960S steal the spotlight, the Civil Rights Movement in Birmingham and Alabama evolved from a complex history of race relations in the American South. Exhibits in the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute reveal slices of black and white life from the late 1800s to the present. The Institute documents the rise of the movement and the succession of events it bore around the nation. 40 | BIRMINGHAM TOURIST GUIDE
Just across the street is Birmingham’s most famous civil rights landmark, the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church. Though Sixteenth Street Baptist was the church that drew worldwide attention, it was Birmingham’s Bethel Baptist Church and the Reverend Fred Shuttlesworth that are credited with shaping the Civil Rights Movement here. Sixteenth Street Baptist Church National Historic Landmark became the focus of the PHOTOGRAPH: (TOP LEFT) TED TUCKER
ATTRACTIONS
world on a September Sunday morning in 1963 when four African-American schoolgirls died in a dynamite blast. The bomb, set by Ku Klux Klansmen, ripped through that side of the church, killing 11-year-old Denise McNair, Carole Robertson, Cynthia Wesley and Addie Mae Collins, all 14 years old. Facing the Civil Rights Institute, Kelly Ingram Park served as a congregating area for demonstrations in the early 1960s, including the ones in which police dogs and fire hoses were turned on marchers by Birmingham police. Sculptures and a park cell phone tour tell the story of activities that took place there. Also nearby in the district is the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame and historic Carver ThePHOTOGRAPH: (TOP LEFT/RIGHT; BOTTOM RIGHT) JEFFREY GREENBERG
ater for the Performing Arts. The museum honors jazz greats with ties to the state of Alabama. The Eddie Kendrick Memorial Park, just down the block, honors Birmingham native and Temptations lead singer Eddie Kendrick. The Fourth Avenue Business District remains active with restaurants and barbershops. This cluster of black-owned businesses was the core of African-American social and commercial life in the early 1900s and later when white-owned shops and stores refused to serve black customers. Many minority-owned businesses still operate in the district today, serving a steady stream of customers of all races. 8 0 0 . 4 5 8 . 8 0 8 5 | W W W. B I R M I N G H A M . T R AV E L | 4 1
A GUIDE TO BIRMINGHAM SHOPPING
WHERE TO SHOP
Birmingham is the unrivaled retail giant of Alabama. From outlet malls to upscale boutiques, shopping opportunities are near endless. 42 | BIRMINGHAM TOURIST GUIDE
SHOPPING
Brookwood Village
Discover the Village…Brookwood Village, where you will find some of Birmingham’s most popular shops and restaurants. Shop in a beautiful climate-controlled mall featuring Macy’s, Belk, Books-A-Million, Z Gallerie, Banana Republic, Victoria’s Secret and many other exciting stores. Dine al fresco at Brio Tuscan Grille, Cocina Superior and more. Also, enjoy power shopping at DSW, Target and The Fresh Market! Covered parking and valet service are available. Located off Shades Creek Parkway (Alabama 149) between U.S. 280 and U.S. 31.
Downtown Birmingham
Investigating downtown shopping is an adventure in itself. Start out at BB’s China & Glassware (2427 1st Ave. North) where you’ll find an enticing assortment of dishes and glassware, some bearing the logos of defunct hotels from around the country, along with Fiesta ware and seconds at good discounts. Walk over one block to 2nd Avenue North where you’ll find Charm (2329 2nd Ave. North), a delightful little boutique with new and
vintage handmade jewelry, purses, scarves and more. Just across the street is Faith Skate Supply (2328 2nd Ave. No.) for skateboarding enthusiasts. Then head up the street about half a block to What’s on Second (2306 2nd Ave. No.) for an eye-feast of vintage, antique and unusual items. Move on to downtown 20th Street to the historic Bon Ton Hatters, where you can get your hat steam cleaned while you get the best shoeshine in town. Just off 20th on Third Avenue North is a treasure trove of memories at Reed Books (see Arts and Antiques section). Back over to 20th Street and south a few blocks is the Peanut Depot. Stop in for treats or just to see the beautiful old roasters that are still in use. Head further south down 20th into historic Five Points South. A good photo background here is “The Storyteller,” a fountain designed by Birmingham-native sculptor Frank Fleming. While in this district, stop in at Charlemagne Record Exchange, if only for the atmosphere and the personnel. Also check out McNolia’s Cards and Gifts for funky stuff and The Golden Temple, 8 0 0 . 4 5 8 . 8 0 8 5 | W W W. B I R M I N G H A M . T R AV E L | 4 3
SHOPPING
where herbal supplements are sold alongside Birkenstocks®. www.downtownbirmingham.org
fashion shops with special emphasis on children’s clothing. www.welcometomountainbrook.com
Downtown Homewood
Patton Creek
Old-style shopping along main street in the Birmingham suburb of Homewood includes upscale clothing shops, home decorating stores, and nationally acknowledged high end antique galleries. A stop by Savage’s Bakery, a local landmark, is a necessity. The new Soho Square includes an interesting mix of boutiques and restaurants at sidewalk level below residential lofts. 18th Street (and beyond), Homewood. www.homewoodchamber.org
English Village, Mountain Brook Village and Crestline Village
In the heart of the suburb of Mountain Brook, these three distinct shopping areas are linked by tree lined sidewalks. English Village has restaurants, coffee houses and garden shops. Mountain Brook Village has funky art shops, high end boutiques and home furnishing stores. (Don’t miss a stroll through Smith’s Variety for a variety of toys and candy bins.) Crestline Village has a nice mix of restaurants and high 44 | BIRMINGHAM TOURIST GUIDE
Combines a “main street” element with parking and sidewalks in front of an eclectic mix of quaint, unique shops and restaurants, with larger retailers such as Dick’s Sporting Goods and Rave Motion Pictures. In the Birmingham suburb of Hoover between I-459, the Riverchase Galleria and Alabama 150. www. pattoncreek.com
Pepper Place
For a different sort of shopping experience and a clear departure from the mall scene, Pepper Place is your destination. Pepper Place, an old Dr. Pepper syrup plant, houses an eclectic mix of home furnishing shops, antiques and architectural stores. During the spring and summer months, tourists and residents alike flock to the Pepper Place Market, an outdoor farmers market with chef demonstrations every Saturday. Alongside the tomatoes, squash and peaches, shoppers find hand-crafted clothing, yard ornaments, honey, organic soaps, goat cheese and scones.
SHOPPING
Riverchase Galleria
Housed beneath the world’s longest skylight are more than 200 shops, a dozen restaurants and a colorful carousel. Look for American Eagle, Banana Republic, Godiva Chocolatier, Abercrombie & Finch and BumperNets, just a few samples of stores in this two-story city under glass. The complex also includes the Wynfrey Hotel. U.S. 31 and Alabama 150 at I-459. www.riverchasegalleria.com
The Shops of Grand River
Set against the picturesque landscape of the Cahaba River Valley, The Shops of Grand River is a brand new shopping destination. A sampling of the distinctive outlet and specialty stores are Brooks Brothers, Gap Outlet, Jones New York Outlet, Bose, Polo Ralph Lauren, Coach, Carters Babies & Kids, and more. www.shopsofgrandriver.com
The Summit
Whether you’re looking for a new outfit, the perfect accessory, or an outstanding dining experience, The Summit offers a unique opportunity to find what truly suits you with PHOTOGRAPH: (TOP RIGHT) BECKY LUGIART-STAYNER
over 100 stores and restaurants. Its outdoor design and beautiful architectural detail play host to a number of shops that fit your taste and your lifestyle. You may feel like just browsing or like wining and dining- but we know that during a visit to The Summit you will shop in style. At I-459 and U.S. 280. www.thesummitonline.com
Trussville Shopping
The booming suburb of Trussville includes three large shopping areas. Target, Books-aMillion, and Old Navy anchor the mall on U.S. 11. A second shopping area occupies both sides of Chalkville Road, just after the first I-59 Trussville exit, with a Wal-Mart and cinema on one side and Kohl’s anchoring the other. The third cluster of shops is the Pinnacle Shopping Center, located behind Target and anchored by Belk and Best Buy. www. colonialprop.com/ property-info/?cid=1267 Dozens of other shopping centers are in the Birmingham area. For a complete listing, visit www.birmingham.travel. 8 0 0 . 4 5 8 . 8 0 8 5 | W W W. B I R M I N G H A M . T R AV E L | 4 5
A GUIDE TO BIRMINGHAM ANTIQUES
WHERE TO ANTIQUE
Good taste and distinctive style have attracted much attention from retailers, as well as from prominent national antique and lifestyle magazines. From Weller pottery to Baccarat chandeliers, antique shops in the Birmingham area are noted for their varied selections at reasonable prices. 46 | BIRMINGHAM TOURIST GUIDE
PHOTOGRAPH: BRENT BOYD
ANTIQUES 1. 5TH AVENUE ANTIQUES
2410 5th Ave. S., Birmingham 205-320-0500 www.5thavenueantiques.com 2. ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGE
200 28th St. S., Birmingham 205-322-3538 www.architecturalheritage.com 3. ARGENT
2949 18th St. S., Homewood 205-871-4221 4. BAMA FLEA MARKET AND ANTIQUES
1605 Ashville Rd., Leeds 205-699-2499 www.bamafleamall.com
5. CHARLOTTE WOODSON ANTIQUES
2410 Canterbury Rd., Birmingham 205-871-3314 www.charlottewoodson.com 6. CHARM
2329 2nd Ave. N., Birmingham 205-322-9023, www.charmonsecond.com 7. CHRISTOPHER GLENN, INC.
2713 19th St. S., Homewood 205-870-1236 www.christopherglenninc.com 8. CHRISTOPHER HOUSE ANTIQUES
3205 2nd Ave. S., Birmingham 205-581-0202
9. CIRCA INTERIORS & ANTIQUES
2831 Culver Rd., Birmingham 205-868-9199
10. CLARK ANTIQUES GALLERY
14. GREYSTONE ANTIQUES
20. LAMB’S EARS, LTD
15. HANNA ANTIQUES/ BOOKS! BY GEORGE
21. LEVY’S FINE JEWELRY
5475 Hwy. 280, Inverness 205-995-4773
2717 2nd Avenue, S., Birmingham 205-325-1999 www.clarkantiquesgallery.com
2424 7th Ave. S., Birmingham 205-323-6036
11. FOUR SEASONS ANTIQUES, ART AND BOTANICALS
1900 Cahaba Rd., Birmingham 205-918-0505 www.shophenhouseantiques.com
2910 18th St. S., Birmingham 205-803-4059 www.4seasonsantiquesandart.com 12. FULL CIRCLE
3908 Clairmont Avenue South, Birmingham 205-202-5907, shopfullcircle.com 13. GARDENDALE FLEA MALL & ANTIQUE CENTER
2405 Decatur Highway, Gardendale 205-631-7451 www.gardendalefleamall.com
PHOTOGRAPH: BRENT BOYD
16. HENHOUSE ANTIQUES
17. HOMEWOOD ANTIQUES
930 Oxmoor Rd., Homewood 205-414-9945 www.homewoodantiques.com
70 Church Street, Mountain Brook 205-802-5700 www.lambsearsltd.com 2116 2nd Ave. N., Birmingham 205-251-3381, levysfinejewelry.com 22. MARTHA LAUREN ANTIQUE LINENS & ACCESSORIES
2417 Canterbury Rd., Birmingham 205-871-2283 23. MULBERRY HEIGHTS ANTIQUES
2419 Canterbury Rd., Mountain Brook 205-870-1300 24. NOORDERMEER ANTIEKS
3411 Old Columbia Rd., Hoover 204-822-9500
731 Broadway, Homewood 205-870-1161 www.noordermeerantieks.com
19. INTERIORS AT PEPPER PLACE
25. ON-A-SHOESTRING
18. HOOVER ANTIQUE GALLERY
2817 2nd Ave. S., Birmingham 205-323-2817
601 Shades Crest Rd., Hoover 205-822-8741
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ANTIQUES
26. PAINTED SHOVEL MERCANTILE
400 41st Street S, Birmingham 205-593-2083 www.paintedshovel.com
27. REED BOOKS, THE MUSEUM OF FOND MEMORIES
2021 Third Ave. N., Birmingham 205-326-4460 www.jimreedbooks.com 28. SOHO RETRO
2805 18th Street S., Homewood 205.870.7655 www.shopsohoretro.com 48 | BIRMINGHAM TOURIST GUIDE
29. THE KING’S HOUSE
2807 2nd Ave. S., Birmingham 205-320-2535 www.kingshouseantiques.com 30. THE ROYAL STANDARD
2808 18th St. S., Homewood 205-871-6644 www.theroyalstandard.com 31. TRICIA’S TREASURES
2700 19th Place S., Homewood 205-871-9779
32. TRUSSVILLE ANTIQUE MALL/ THE MALL CAFE
147 North Chalkville Rd., Trussville 205-661-9805 33. VILLAGE FIREFLY
2816 Culver Rd., Birmingham 205-870-4560 34. WHAT’S ON SECOND
2306 2nd Ave. N., Birmingham 205-322-2688, www.whatsonsecond.org 35. ZOE’S IN FOREST PARK
3900 Clairmont Ave S., Birmingham 205-595-9049, www.zoeshop.com PHOTOGRAPH: BRENT BOYD
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A GUIDE TO BIRMINGHAM GALLERIES
WHERE TO FIND ART
Folk to fine to funk art, and it’s game on in galleries throughout the city. Handmade jewelry, blown glass vases and quirky sculpture fill shops alongside galleries of fine paintings of every medium. 50 | BIRMINGHAM TOURIST GUIDE
GALLERIES
1. ANDREA LUCAS STUDIOS
1910 1st Ave N., Irondale 205-276-1120 www.andrealucasstudios.com 2. A’MANO
2707 Culver Rd., Birmingham 205-871-9093 www.amanogifts.com 3. ARCENEAUX GALLERY
1830 29th Ave S., Homewood 205-802-5800 4. ART ALLEY
109 Broadway, Homewood 205-879-1105, artalley.net 5. ARTISTS INCORPORATED
3365 Morgan Dr., Vestavia Hills 205-979-8990 www.artistsincorporated.com
6. ATCHISON GALLERY & VILLAGE FRAMERS
11. DANIEL DAY GALLERY & MELODYMADEIT INC.
7. BETA PICTORIS GALLERY
3025 6th Avenue S Birmingham, 205-731-9420 www.dreammeccastudio.com
2847 Culver Rd., Birmingham 205-871-6221 2411 Second Ave N., Birmingham 205-413-2999 www.betapictorisgallery.com 8. BEVERLY MCNEIL ART GALLERY
605 South 28th Street, Birmingham 205-328-1761 www.beverlymcneilgallery.com 9. BIRMINGHAM MUSEUM OF ART
2000 Rev. Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd., Birmingham, 205-254-2565 or 254-2566 www.artsbma.org 10. BIRMINGHAM PUBLIC LIBRARY
2100 Park Place, Birmingham 205-226-3600, bplonline.org
12. DS ART STUDIO GALLERY
2805 Crescent Ave., Ste. E., Homewood 205-802-4700 www.dsart.com 13. DURBIN GALLERY/ AZAR ART STUDIOS
900 Arkadelphia Rd., Birmingham 205-226-4925, www.bsc.edu/ academics/art/durbin.htm 14. FOUR CORNERS GALLERY
4700 Hwy. 280, Ste. B, Birmingham 205-980-2600 www.fourcornersgalleryonline.com
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GALLERIES
15. FOUR SEASONS ANTIQUES, ART AND BOTANICALS
18. LEVITE JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER
2910 18th St. S., Birmingham 205-803-4059 www.4seasonsantiquesandart.com
3960 Montclair Rd., Birmingham 205-879-0411, www.bhamjcc.org
16. FRIENDS GALLERY—HOOVER PUBLIC LIBRAY
2915 Linden Ave., Homewood 205-879-7022
19. LITTLEHOUSE GALLERIES
200 Municipal Dr., Hoover 205-444-7820 www.hoover.lib.al.us/gallery
20. NAKED ART GALLERY
17. LAMB’S EARS, LTD.
21. NEW LIFE ART, INC.
70 Church Street, Mountain Brook 205-802-5700, www.lambsearsltd.com
3831 Clairmont Ave S., Birmingham 205-595-3553, www.nakedartusa.com 3600 Lorna Ridge Dr, Hoover 205-979-2158, www.newlifeart.com
22. ODESSA WOOLFOLK GALLERY AT THE BIRMINGHAM CIVIL RIGHTS INSTITUTE
520 16th St. N., Birmingham 205-328-9696, www.bcri.org 23. RED DOT GALLERY
1001 Stuart St., Birmingham 205-870-7608, www.reddotgallery.com 24. SOON-BOK LEE SELLERS ART GALLERY – ARTISTS ON THE BLUFF
571 Park Avenue, Hoover, 205-637-5946, www.artistsonthebluff.com 25. SPACE ONE ELEVEN
2409 2nd Ave. N., Birmingham 205-328-0553, www.spaceoneeleven.org 26. UAB VISUAL ARTS GALLERY— ABROMS-ENGEL INSTITUTE FOR THE VISUAL ARTS
1221 10th Ave S., Birmingham 205-975-6436 www.uab.edu/cas/aeiva/contact For a detailed brochure on Arts and Antique Galleries in Birmingham, call 800-458-8085 or download the information at www.inbirmingham.com.
52 | BIRMINGHAM TOURIST GUIDE
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A GUIDE TO BIRMINGHAM ENTERTAINMENT
WHERE TO PLAY Entertainment of all sorts gets underway in Birmingham after dark. Good, some even great music is regularly going down in small out-of-the-way clubs throughout the area. Nationally-known musical acts fill the schedule all year in larger music halls. And evening ballet, live theatre and orchestral performances entertain visitors to the city when the sun goes down.
54 | BIRMINGHAM TOURIST GUIDE
ALABAMA BALLET Alabama Ballet seeks to promote and foster the development of classical and contemporary ballet through high-quality education and community outreach. Under the direction of Tracey Alvey, this company of 41 professional dancers presents four full-length productions annually. 2726 1st Avenue South, 322-4300. For tickets and details, visit www.alabamaballet.org or call 205-975-2787. ALABAMA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA The Alabama Symphony Orchestra has entertained audiences for more than 70 years, playing a variety of classical and popular compositions and hosting performances by some of the finest international guest artists. The symphony’s 54 talented musicians bring to life some of the world’s most treasured musical masterpieces. 3621 6th Avenue South, 205-2517727. www.alabamasymphony.org ALABAMA THEATRE Built in the 1920s, The Alabama Theatre is one of the nation’s last operating movie palPHOTO:: COURTESY BIRMINGHAM BARONS
aces, featuring first-run and revival films, concerts and other special events. The “Mighty Wurlitzer” organ still rises from the orchestra pit and is often played to accompany silent films. Attending an event or movie at the Alabama is one of the most highly recommended activities for visitors to the city. Business Hours: Mon. – Fri. 9:00 AM – 4 PM, later during special events. Admission charged: varies by event,1817 Third Avenue North, 205-252-2262, www.alabamatheatre.com ALDRIDGE REPERTORY THEATRE Aldridge Repertory Theatre launched their inaugural season at the historic Carver Theatre with the southern premiere of “No Child” by Nilaja Sun. Over the past 20 years Aldridge Repertory Theatre has produced many shows including the Pulitzer Prize winning play “Fences” and the Broadway hit musical “Purlie.” 209 20th Street, N., Suite 145, 205-264-9910, www.aldridgerep.org. ALYS ROBINSON STEPHENS PERFORMING ARTS CENTER Alys Robinson Stephens Performing Arts 8 0 0 . 4 5 8 . 8 0 8 5 | W W W. B I R M I N G H A M . T R AV E L | 5 5
Center’s trademark is diversity – diverse performances and diverse audiences. From classical, pop, jazz and world beat music to dance, comedy and family entertainment, the center welcomes the entire community into the magical world of performing arts. Some of the world’s most renowned performing artists take the stage at this concert hall and theater space on the University of Alabama at Birmingham campus. 1200 10th Avenue South, 205-975-2787. www.alysstephens.org BARBER MOTORSPORTS PARK Not only is this road course second to none, it is set within a perfectly manicured and sculptured landscape. Visitors can watch auto and motorcycle road racing while relaxing in wooded surroundings. The course was designed to meet the highest racing standards, yet also to be spectatorfriendly and welcoming to families. The length of the road course is 2.38 miles. It is 45 feet wide and has 16 turns. The park sits on 740 acres, 225 of which are developed. The Barber Motorsports Park hosts a continuous schedule of upscale, high-profile motorcycle and auto racing events. 56 | BIRMINGHAM TOURIST GUIDE
It is also home to the Porsche Driving Experience. 6040 Barber Motorsports Pkwy., 205-298-9040, www.barbermotorsports.com BIRMINGHAM BALLET Birmingham Ballet offers dance training for aspiring talent as well as presenting professional performances. Performances are held at the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex. 2198 Columbiana Road, Suite 100, 205-979-9492, www.birminghamballet.com BIRMINGHAM BARONS The 2013 season marks a new era for the Birmingham Barons when they begin playing their games at Birmingham’s new Regions Field, located near the heart of the city. The city’s AA baseball team, farm team for the Chicago White Sox, plays its season from April through September. 205-988-3200, www.barons.com BIRMINGHAM CHILDREN’S THEATRE Birmingham Children’s Theatre was founded
N OW P LAYI N G
The Alabama Theatre The Alabama Theatre is a fabulous place to see everything from classic films to a Tom Waits concert. It is one of the grand architectural accomplishments saved from the wrecking-ball fate so many others of that era suffered. Built in 1927, the Alabama was designed by a Chicago firm that specialized in the extravagant movie palaces of the 1920s. The new motion picture house opened on Christmas Day. Silent movies still were the fare of the day, and the films were dramatized through music on the “Mighty Wurlitzer.� The massive pipe organ boasted a sound capacity of a 70-piece orchestra. That same wonderful Wurlitzer still magically rises from underground to accompany classic films or for special performances. Exploring the theatre is entertainment in itself. The building is designed like a Spanish palace with a hodgepodge of motifs from many periods.
Heavy Moorish details with spiraling terra cotta columns greet visitors. Marble columns, bright gold leaf ornamentation and ornate chandeliers decorate the grand lobby. Inside the 3,000-seat auditorium, rich stained glass arches and complex, gilded, plaster ornament ice the walls. The interior is crowned with an elliptical dome of recessed panels. And by all means, make a special trip to the lavish lounges in the theatre. For entertainment schedules, visit www.alabamatheatre.com.
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in 1947. Since that time, it has become one of America’s largest professional theatres for young audiences and now operates in a threetheatre complex at the Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex. The theatre produces eight shows seasonally, four of which tour, giving the theatre a combined audience of over 200,000 each year. 2130 Richard Arrington, Jr., Blvd. N., 205-458-8181, www.bct123.org. BIRMINGHAM FESTIVAL THEATRE Birmingham Festival Theatre was formed in 1972. Since that time the theatre has provided both seasonal local performers and new aspiring talent to present shows that can be seen in Birmingham only at this theatre. 1901-1/2 11th Ave., South, 205-933-2383, www.bftonline.org BIRMINGHAM-JEFFERSON CONVENTION COMPLEX/LEGACY ARENA AT THE BJCC Alabama’s largest convention facility is also the state’s premier venue for entertainment. From touring Broadway shows to big-name music per58 | BIRMINGHAM TOURIST GUIDE
formers, the BJCC has a full schedule of events. The expansive exhibition hall at the complex is often in use for boat shows, bridal fairs and hunting and fishing expos. The 19,000-seat Legacy Arena at the BJCC hosts world class musical entertainers, along with special events such as Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey circus and is known for its crisp acoustics. The more intimate 2,800-seat concert hall is the performance venue for limited seating performances. And the 1,000-seat theater is an ideal setting for theatrical performances where every seat in the house is a good one. 2100 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. No. 205-458-8400, www.bjcc.org BUMPERNETS Founded in 1999, America’s first table tennis store and billiard pro shop is home to one of the most premier, exciting and top-notch fun environments in the Birmingham area. All of the table games and arcades are available for play or purchase. Owned by one of the most renowned table tennis players in North
America, BumperNets is home to over 110 unique ways to have fun. Whether you are a family of five looking to spend some quality time together or just friendly co-worker competition, BumperNets has it all! 2000 Riverchase Galleria Hoover, AL 35244, 205-9872222, www.bumpernets.com See our ad page 3. EXTEMPORANEOUS THEATRE COMPANY Extemporaneous Theatre Company performs live, improvised entertainment. BIRMINGHAM magazine voted Extemporaneous “Best On-the-Spot Theatre”. 1901-1/2 11th Ave. S., www.extemporaneoustheatre.com HISTORIC FIVE POINTS SOUTH ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT Founded in 1893, Five Points South is a walkable neighborhood with James Beard Foundation Award-winning restaurants and historically significant architecture. The beautiful Highlands United Methodist Church, the centerpiece of Five Points, has been part of the neighborhood for more than 100 years. The fountain sculpture in front of the church, “The Storyteller,” was designed by Birmingham artist Frank Fleming and conveys the deep Southern tradition of storytelling. The fountain is a favorite backdrop for tour-
ists taking photographs in the area. Five Points is a popular shopping and dining destination, influenced by nationally-renowned restaurants such as Highlands Bar and Grill, Hot and Hot Fish Club, Bottega and Jim-N-Nick’s Barbeque. It is also home to a carousel carving school and Charlemagne, one of the funkiest record shops on earth. www.fivepointsbham.com
Birmingham Crossplex For track and field events, the Crossplex has an indoor 200-meter, hydraulically banked Mondotrack SX that is one of only six in the U.S. and eight in the world. Eight 60-meter lanes for dashes and hurdles are located within the infield area of the track with dual horizontal runways for pole vault, long jump and triple jump. The pool in the natatorium has ten 50-meter lanes, ten 25-meter lanes and twenty 25-yard lanes. The grandstands around the pool hold 1,100 spectators. Two 1-meter and two 3-meter springboards are mounted on concrete pedestals for diving competitions. The facility also includes a media room, meeting hall, VIP suites and much more. 2337 Bessemer Road, Birmingham, 205-279-8900
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HISTORIC LAKEVIEW ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT Developed in the late 19th century, the Lakeview District is named for a lake and other attractions that once defined the former Lakeview Park. Present day Lakeview looks little as it did then, but it has flourished and grown and holds a good quality assortment of restaurants and nightspots. Among the favorite dining rooms in the area are Bettola, with casual upscale fare reflecting the Campania region of Italy. Next door is the popular watering hole, Cantina, and also in the area are coffee shops and design studios. In the spring and summer months, locals and tourists flock to Pepper Place Saturday Market for locally grown fruit, produce and plants. The Lakeview District stretches across several blocks and includes other clusters of restaurants and clubs, including the highly-rated Five Bar and Slice Pizza & Brew, a hip pizza place. 60 | BIRMINGHAM TOURIST GUIDE
HOOVER METROPOLITAN STADIUM Home of the SEC Baseball Tournament and other sporting events. Located south of town near the Riverchase Galleria. 100 Ben Chapman Drive, 205-444-7732, www.hooveral.org MAGIC CITY ACTORS THEATRE Magic City Actors Theatre showcases the best of local talent both on stage and behind the scenes. Their shows are energetic and diverse, and chosen to appeal to a wide variety of theater-goers. 205-253-9604. Performances are presented at the Virginia Samford Theatre, 1116 26th Street, S., 205-251-1228. OPERA BIRMINGHAM Northern and Central Alabama’s only professional, regional opera company, Opera Birmingham has entertained and informed audiences in PHOTO: TED TUCKER
the region for over 50 years. From its humble beginnings in 1955 to its 50th anniversary in 2005 and beyond, Opera Birmingham has produced world-class operatic productions and concerts that have been hailed by critics and loved by audiences. 3601 6th Avenue South, 205-322-6737 REGIONS FIELD The Birmingham Baron’s new home is located near the heart of the city. Between 14th and 16th and First and Third Avenue S. 205-988-3200. UPTOWN ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT Adjacent to the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Center, Uptown is an entertainment district with a nice mix of bars, hotels, coffee shops and restaurants. One of the popular dining rooms is the Todd English P.U.B., one of only two restaurants in the country owned by PHOTO: (TOP RIGHT) MHI PHOTOGRAPHY LLC
the celebrity chef. Other dining choices offer a wide selection from steaks to Southern fare. Al fresco dining is popular in the Uptown district, with live music throughout the week on rooftop patios. www.uptownbham.com VERIZON WIRELESS MUSIC CENTER Each year between April and October, some of the world’s top musicians perform in the beautiful outdoor arena. Fee: Varies with each performance. Highway 119 exit off I-65, 1000 Amphitheatre Road, 205-985-4900. www.verizonwirelessmusiccenter.net RED MOUNTAIN THEATRE COMPANY Red Mountain Theatre Company is a nonprofit professional theatre organization with an emphasis on musical theatre. RMTC 8 0 0 . 4 5 8 . 8 0 8 5 | W W W. B I R M I N G H A M . T R AV E L | 6 1
provides unique educational, training and performing opportunities for aspiring and culturally diverse artists, while growing new and existing audiences through quality theatrical experiences. For almost 30 years, Red Mountain Theatre Company (formerly Summerfest Musical Theatre) has grown to become one of the only year-round professional musical theatre organizations in Alabama. With its own unique Cabaret Theatre located right in the heart of downtown Birmingham’s Theatre District and summer Mainstage productions performed at the Virginia Samford Theatre (formerly Town and Gown), Red Mountain Theatre Company continues to bring both well-known national performers and incredible local talent to the Birmingham stage. Red Mountain Theatre Company, 2900 1st Ave. South, 205-324-2424, www.redmountaintheatre.org TALLADEGA SUPERSPEEDWAY Talladega Superspeedway is the biggest, fastest, most competitive motorsports facility in the world. Records for both speed and competition have been established at Talladega. Two
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major races during the year draw thousands of fans from across the country for the heartthumping action on the track. Adjacent to the track is the International Motorsports Hall of Fame and Museum. Admission charged. 3366 Speedway Boulevard, 256-362-2261, www.talladegasuperspeedway.com TERRIFIC NEW THEATRE One of Birmingham’s favorite live performance theatres for the unexpected, Terrific New Theatre turns 26 this year. 2821 2nd Avenue South, 205-328-0868, www.terrificnewtheatre.com VIRGINIA SAMFORD THEATRE The Virginia Samford Theatre is a very special facility for events. The charming historic theater with its park side setting is located on Birmingham’s southside and has a lovely outdoor courtyard. The entire complex can accommodate up to 400 guests. Spaces available for meetings and events. Their website is a good resource for information and has photos of the facility. 1116 26th Street South, 205-251-1228, www.virginiasamfordtheatre.org
Live Music in Birmingham Live music is the signature entertainment of the city, with bands performing every imaginable genre. It is impossible to travel very far in the greater Birmingham area without finding some very good live music. It is also impossible to provide a list of every performance venue in the region in the limited space of this guide. Here a just a few of the dozens of places you’ll find live music: IRON CITY – Birmingham’s newest full service bar, grill and entertainment venue in the heart of downtown. 513 22nd Street South, Birmingham, 205-202-5483, www.ironcitybhamcom WORKPLAY – Recently voted one of Paste magazine’s best music venues in the country. 500 23 Street South, Birmingham, 205-879-4773, www.workplay.com
THE NICK – For decades, Birmingham’s “dirty little secret” has hosted alternative bands on the verge. 2514 10th Avenue South, Birmingham, 205-252-3831, www.thenickrocks.com ZYDECO – A younger crowd favorite with local and national acts. 2001 15th Avenue South, Birmingham, 205-933-1032, www.zydecobirmingham.com BIRMINGHAM-JEFFERSON CONVENTION COMPLEX/LEGACY ARENA – Hosting some of music’s biggest names…not every night, but often enough to check on. 2100 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. North, Birmingham 205-458-8400, www.bjcc.org AVONDALE BREWING CO. – Live music and local brew. 201 41st Street North, Birmingham, 205-777-5456, www.avondalebrewing.com
THE BOTTLETREE CAFÉ – Called “Southern Eclectic on a Shoestring,” this is both vegan café and live indie rock venue. 3719 3rd Avenue South, Birmingham, 205-533-6288, www.thebottletree.com
GARAGE CAFÉ – Live music usually weekends only, but who needs music when you’re surrounded by the castoffs of Antiques Roadshow? 2304 10th Terrace South, Birmingham, 205-322-3220, www.garagecafe.us
ONA’S MUSIC ROOM – You might find jazz. You might find blues. On a good night, you might even find Ona playing. 2801 2nd Avenue South, Birmingham, 205-320-7006, www.onasmusicroom.com
GIP’S PLACE – Mr. Henry Gipson’s been having a backyard party since 1952 here at the last juke joint in Alabama. 3101 Avenue C, Bessemer, 205-913-2941, www.reverbnation.com/venue/gipsplace
For information on other current live music events, visit www.birmingham365.org or www.localbham.com
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Y EAR OF ALABAMA BBQ
Pork Ribs and Politics:
The Origins of Alabama Barbecue (This following information was generously provided by the Alabama Tourism Department and the Southern Foodways Alliance. Find the enlightening history of Alabama barbecue at albbqhistory.org. Then plan your road trip at www.alabamabbq.com)
A
FTER THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION AND THE WAR OF 1812, barbecue spread westward from the eastern seaboard. Settlers migrated to the Deep South and along the Gulf Coast, bringing barbecue with them to places such as Alabama. In the first half of the 19th century, Alabamians fell in love with politics and barbecue in equal measure.
64 | BIRMINGHAM TOURIST GUIDE
According to people who know about such things, politics became a major pastime and means of entertainment in the state. In small Alabama towns, folks would gather from miles around to enjoy political “feats and flights of oratory.” In the earliest years of statehood, the volunteers of Alabama’s numerous local militias mustered together once a year for a day of drilling and fanfare, and “barbecue was often the temptation to make a full muster.” Politicians appeared at these events and similar occasions. Between the political speeches a band would play while
Y EA R O F A L A BA M A B B Q
In the first half of the 19th century, Alabamians fell in love with politics and barbecue in equal measure. refreshments were provided by a monster barbecue. Mutton, beef, pork, poultry—all went into the barbecue pits. This fascinating website of pit history goes on the talk about barbecue revolts and racial divides—even the role of barbecue in the Civil Rights Movement of the South. It also goes in depth with the beginnings of regionally famous Alabama barbecue restaurants such as Jim ‘N Nick’s. Nick Pihakis and his father, Jim Pihakis, of Greek ancestry, founded the Birminghambased restaurant in 1985. Over the last three decades, Jim ‘N Nick’s has expanded to more than 30 locations in seven states. Folks in Birmingham don’t argue much about which barbecue restaurant is their favorite. We’re too busy making plans for where we’re going to eat it next. Extra napkins, please…. 8 0 0 . 4 5 8 . 8 0 8 5 | W W W. B I R M I N G H A M . T R AV E L | 6 5
A GUIDE TOKICKER BIRMINGHAM TEXT DINING
WHERE TO DINE HEADLINE
Often it is dining at a local independent restaurant that is among the highlights of a travel experience. Since the increased visibility of the Birmingham Originals, the city’s menu of restaurants is more vibrant than ever. We highly recommend brunch, lunch or dinner at one of our many chef-owned dining rooms. Read all about them at www.birminghamoriginals.org. 66 | BIRMINGHAM TOURIST GUIDE
PHOTO: BRENT BOYD
DINING Southside and Downtown 26
1210 20th St. S., Birmingham 205-918-0726, www.twentysix26.com 808 SOUTH - A BISTRO
808 20th St. S., Birmingham, 205-933-9000 AL’S DELI & GRILL
1629 10th Ave S., Birmingham 205-939-4278, www.alsdeliandgrill.com
CARRIGAN’S PUBLIC HOUSE
2430 Morris Avenue, Birmingham 205-440-2430, www.carringanspub.com CARLILE’S BARBECUE
3511 6th Ave. S., Birmingham 205-254-9266, www.carlilesbbq.com CASEY’S SPORTS BAR & GRILL
2101 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd., Birmingham, 205-307-3050
CENTURY RESTAURANT AND BAR
2101 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd, Birmingham, 205-307-3005
2021 Park Place, Birmingham 205-458-9611, www.centurybirmingham.com
AVERY’S CAFE
CHAN LEE’S
ATRIUM CAFÉ IN SHERATON HOTEL
1901 6th Ave. N., Birmingham 205-250-9907
1901 6th Avenue N, Suite 256 Birmingham, 205-252-2426
BECKY’S DELI
CHASER’S SPORTS BAR
4101 3rd Avenue S., Birmingham 205-592-0966
815 24th Street N, Birmingham 205-324-2425
BETTOLA
CHEZ FONFON
2901 2nd Ave. S., Ste. 150, Birmingham 205-731-6499 www.bettolarestaurant.com
2007 11th Ave. S., Birmingham 205-939-3221, www.fonfonbham.com
BISTRO 218
3312 Clairmont Ave. S., Birmingham 205-324-2332
218 20th St. N., Birmingham 205-983-7999, www.bistro218.com BOGUE’S
3120 Clairmont Ave, Suite 110, Birmingham, 205-254-9780 BOTTEGA RESTAURANT AND CAFE
2240 Highland Ave. S., Birmingham 205-939-1000 www.bottegarestaurant.com BOTTLETREE CAFE
3719 3rd Ave. S., Birmingham 205-533-6288, www.thebottletree.com BRICK & TIN RESTAURANT
214 20th St. N., Birmingham 205-297-8636, www.brickandtin.com THE CAFÉ AT INNOVATION DEPOT
1500 First Ave. N., Birmingham 205-314-3456, www.culinardcafe.com CAFE DUPONT
113 20th St. N., Birmingham 205- 322-1282, www.cafedupont.net CANTINA TORTILLA GRILL
2901 2nd Ave. S., Ste. 110, Birmingham, 205-323-6980, www.cantinatortillagrill.com
CHINA MOON
CHLOE’S CAFÉ & CATERING
723 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N., Birmingham, 205.328.0680 CHRIS Z’S
2808 University Blvd., Birmingham 205-458-1007 COSMO’S PIZZA
EL BARRIO MEXICAN RESTAURANT
2211 2nd Avenue N., Birmingham 205-868-3737 www.elbarriobirmingham.com FIVE
744 29th Street South, Birmingham 205-868-3841 FORMAGGIO’S ITALIAN BISTRO
1713 10th Ave. S., Birmingham 205-933-7555 www.myspace.com/formaggios FUEGO CANTINA
1101 20th St. S., Birmingham 205-933-1544 www.fuegobirmingham.com FULL MOON BAR-B-QUE - SOUTHSIDE
525 25th St. S., Birmingham 205-324-1007, www.fullmoonbbq.com GABLE SQUARE SALOON & GAMES
803 9th Court S., Birmingham 205-251-0960 www.myspace.com/gablesquaresaloon GABRIELLA’S RESTAURANT
317 17th St. N., Birmingham, 205-983-7249 GALLEY AND GARDEN
2220 Highland Ave. S., Birmingham 205-939-5551, www.galleyandgarden.com THE GARAGE
2304 10th Terrace S., Birmingham 205-322-3220 GIUSEPPE’S CAFE AND EXPRESSO BAR
925 8th St. S., Birmingham 205-324-2626, www.giuseppecafe.com
2012 Magnolia Ave. S., Birmingham 205-930-9971 www.cosmossouthside.com
GOLDEN RULE BARBECUE HARBERT PLAZA
COURTYARD OYSTER BAR & GRILL SOUTHSIDE
GOLDEN TEMPLE GROCERY, CAFE AND YOGA CENTER
2015 Highland Ave. S., Birmingham 205-558-4995 CULINARD CAFÉ AT INNOVATION DEPOT
1500 First Avenue N., Birmingham 205.314.3456, www.culinardcafe.com DAWSON’S BURGERS, WINGS & FRIES
1617 4th Ave N, Birmingham 205-324-3342 DREAMLAND BAR-B-QUE
1427 14th Ave. S., Birmingham 205-933-2133, www.dreamlandbbq.com
1901 6th Ave. N. Ste. 263, Birmingham 205-801-9600, www.goldenrulebbq.com
1901 11th Ave. S., Birmingham 205-933-6333 www.goldentemplehealthfoods.com GREEN ACRES CAFE
1705 4th Ave. N., Birmingham 205-251-3875, www.greenacres-cafe.com GUS’S HOT DOGS
1915 4th Ave. N., Birmingham 205-251-4540 THE FISH MARKET RESTAURANT
612 22nd St. S., Birmingham 205-322-3330, www.thefishmarket.net
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DINING MAKARIOS KABOBS & GRILL
940 20th St. S., Birmingham 205-731-7414 MARILYN’S DELI & DOGS
715 18th St N, Birmingham 205-324-3354 MATTHEW’S BAR & GRILL
2208 Morris Ave., Birmingham 205-862-6261 MELLOW MUSHROOM
1200 20th St. S., Ste. 100, Birmingham 205-212-9420 www.mellowmushroom.com MELT RESTAURANT
4105 4th Avenue South, Birmingham 205-790-7951, meltbham.com MILO’S HAMBURGERS - DOWNTOWN HARBERT PLAZA
1901 6th Ave. N., Ste. 270, Birmingham 205-326-6456, miloshamburgers.com MILO’S HAMBURGERS - SOUTHSIDE
401 19th St. S., Ste. 130, Birmingham 205-322-6456 www.miloshamburgers.com HIGHLANDS BAR & GRILL
2011 11th Ave. S., Birmingham 205-939-1400 www.highlandsbarandgrill.com HOMECOMING COFFEE & GIFT SHOP
312 16th Street North, Birmingham 205-202-4088 HOT AND HOT FISH CLUB
2180 11th Court S., Birmingham 205-933-5474, www.hotandhotfishclub.com IRON CITY BIRMINGHAM
513 22 Street South, Birmingham 205-202-5483, www.ironcitybham.com nd
THE J. CLYDE
1312 Cobb Lane, Birmingham 205-939-1312, www.jclyde.com JOHN’S CITY DINER
112 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd. N., Birmingham, 205-322-6014 www.johnscitydiner.com JIM ‘N NICK’S BAR B Q -
KELLEY’S NEIGHBORHOOD SPORTS GRILL
720 29th St. S., Birmingham 205-323-9786
LITTLE SAVANNAH RESTAURANT AND BAR
3811 Clairmont Ave. S., Birmingham 205-591-1119, www.littlesavannah.com LOS AMIGOS MEXICAN RESTAURANT
3324 Clairmont Ave. S., Birmingham 205-324-5896 www.losamigosmexican.com LUCY’S COFFEE & TEA
2007 University Blvd., Birmingham 205-328-2007, lucyscoffeeandtea.com M & M BARBECUE & CAFETERIA
3921 First Ave. N., Birmingham 205-592-9941 MAGIC CITY GRILLE
2201 3rd Ave. N., Birmingham 205-251-6500
Five Points South 1908 11th Ave. S., Birmingham 205-320-1060, www.jimnnicks.com
MAGIC WOK
KAIROS KAFE & CATERING
MAGNOLIA BBQ & FISH
515 University Blvd., Birmingham 205-919-1934, www.kairoskatering.com 68 | BIRMINGHAM TOURIST GUIDE
401 19th St. S., Birmingham 205-327-5000 1709 4th Avenue N, Birmingham 205-704-4378
MOE’S ORIGINAL BBQ
731 29th St. S., Birmingham 205-252-5888, www.moesoriginalbbq.com MOE’S SOUTHWEST GRILL – UAB
1801 4th Avenue S, Suite 109, Birmingham, 205-250-6355 www.moes.com NELSON BROTHERS CAFE
314 17th St. N., Birmingham 205-254-9098 NEW CHINA TOWN RESTAURANT
1020 20th St. S., Birmingham 205-251-2373 NEWK’S EATERY
611 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. S., Birmingham, 205-323-0992, newks.com NIKI’S DOWNTOWN CAFE
1101 2nd Ave. N., Birmingham 205-251-1972 OCEAN
1218 20th St. S., Birmingham 205-933-0999 www.oceanbirmingham.com O’HENRY’S COFFEES - REGIONS/ HARBERT TOWER
1901 6th Ave. N., Ste. 295, Birmingham 205-323-1198, www.ohenryscoffee.com
PHOTO: EARTHBORN STUDIOS
DINING ON TAP SPORTS CAFE - LAKEVIEW
PLANET SMOOTHIE - BIRMINGHAM
ROGUE TAVERN
ORIGINAL GREEN ACRES CAFÉ
POST OFFICE PIES
ROJO
737 29th St. S., Birmingham 205-320-1225, www.ontapsportscafe.com 2724 29th Ave N, Birmingham 205-328-8099 ORIGINAL PANCAKE HOUSE
1931 11th Ave. S., Birmingham 205-933-8837 OSCAR’S AT THE MUSEUM
2000 Rev Abraham Woods Jr Blvd., Birmingham, 205-254-2755 PIT BAR-B-Q THE NUMBER ONE
2820 10th Ave. N., Birmingham 205-328-1515 PITA LOCO
2000 2nd Ave. N., Birmingham 205-252-4899 PITA STOP CAFE BAR & GRILL
1106 12th St. S., Birmingham 205-328-2749, www.thepitastop.com
1901 6th Ave. N., Birmingham 205-328-4791, www.planetsmoothie.com 209 41st Street South, Birmingham 205-599-9900 PURPLE ONION DELI & GRILL
2312 2nd Avenue North 205-202-4151, www.roguetavern.com 2921 Highland Ave. S., Birmingham 205-328-4733 www.birminghammenus.com/rojo/
1717 10th Ave. S., Birmingham 205-933-7555
SARRIS RESTAURANT
RANELLI’S DELI & CAFÉ
SAW’S SOUL KITCHEN
1225 20th St. S. Birmingham 205-933-6983, www.ranellisdeli.com REVELATOR COFFEE
1826 3rd Ave. N., Unit 101, Birmingham www.revelatorcoffee.com RIB IT UP
830 1st Ave. N., Birmingham, 205-328-7427, www.ribitup.com ROCKY’S PIZZA & SUBS
715 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd., Birmingham, 205-252-8282, rockyspizza.net
600 31st St. N., Birmingham, 205-252-7357 215 41st St. S., Birmingham, 205-591-1409 SINBAD’S AMERICAN AND MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT
401 19th St. S., Ste. 100, Birmingham 205-714-9991 SILVERTRON CAFÉ
3813 Clairmont Ave. S., Birmingham 205-591-3707, www.silvertroncafe.us SITAR INDIAN RESTAURANT
729 20th St. S., Birmingham 205-323-6500, www.sitaruab.com
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DINING URBAN TACO @ YMCA – FOOD TRUCK
2101 4th Avenue, North, Birmingham VITTORIA MACELLERIA
2901 2nd Avenue South, Ste. 159 205-731-6499 YEHMAN CARRIBBEAN CUISINE
1623 4th Avenue N, Birmingham 205-323-3120 YO’ MAMA’S RESTAURANT & CATERING
2328 2nd Avenue N, Birmingham 205.626.9860, www.yomamasrestaurant.com ZOE’S KITCHEN - DOWNTOWN
1819 5th Ave. N., Birmingham 205-252-5200, www.zoeskitchen.com
Fultondale, Gardendale, Northwest, Trussville SLICE PIZZA & BREW
725 29th St. S., Birmingham 205-715-9300 www.slicebirmingham.com SOL’S SANDWICH SHOP & DELI
THE SOUTHERN KITCHEN AND BAR
2301 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N., Ste. 1C, 205-224-4839 THE RED ZONE SPORTS BAR & GRILL
2 20th Street N, Suite 120, Birmingham, 205-244-7657, www.solsdeli.com
1108 20th Street South, Birmingham 205-983-7522, www.theredzonebham. com
SUBWAY
THE WINE LOFT
2105 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N., Birmingham, 205-397-7827 SURIN WEST
1918 11th Ave. S., Birmingham 205-324-1928, www.surinwest.com SWEET TEA RESTAURANT
2205 3rd Avenue S, Birmingham 205-745-3990 www.sweettearestaurant.com TAJ INDIA
2226 Highland Ave. S., Birmingham 205-939-3805, www.tajindia.net
CHOCOLATE BISCUIT TEA ROOM
328 12th St. S., Birmingham 205-324-2911, www.tedsbirmingham.com TIN ROOF
2709 7th Avenue S, Birmingham 205-323-4356, www.tinroof.com/ home/birmingham TODD ENGLISH P.U.B.
TRATTORIA CENTRALE
2901 2nd Ave. S., Ste. 120, Birmingham 205-616-8450 www.redcatcoffeehouse.com 70 | BIRMINGHAM TOURIST GUIDE
5071 Pinnacle Square, Trussville 205-655-6008, www.cajunsteamer.com
TED’S RESTAURANT
THE FISH MARKET RESTAURANT
THE RED CAT COFFEEHOUSE
CAJUN STEAMER BAR AND GRILL
CHINA ONE
1331 1st Avenue North, Birmingham 612 22nd St. S., Birmingham 205-322-3330, www.thefishmarket.ne
218 Main St., Ste. 110, Trussville 205-655-0330 www.cafeonmainfood.com
2200 1st Ave. N., Birmingham 205-323-8228 www.wineloftbirmingham.com
2221 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd North, Birmingham, 205-307-3700 www.toddenglishpub.com
TAQUERIA DOS HERMANOS – FOOD TRUCK
CAFE ON MAIN
357 Walker Chapel Plaza, Fultondale 205-849-9111 335 Main St., Trussville 205-655-0119
COSTA’S MEDITERRANEAN CAFE
5891 Trussville Crossings Pkwy., Birmingham, 205-655-9779 EL CAZADOR
1930 Edwards Lake Rd., Birmingham 205-661-0904 FRONTERA GRILL MEXICAN CUISINE
5974 Chalkville Rd., Birmingham 205-661-3318
207A 20th St. N., Birmingham 205-202-5612 www.trattoriacentrale.com
FULTONDALE BAKERY
URBAN STANDARD
120 South Chalkville Rd., Trussville 205-655-4849 www.goldenrulebbq.com
2320 Second Ave. N., Birmingham 205-250-8200, www.urbanstandard.net
1214 Decatur Hwy, Ste 112, Fultondale 205-808-4431
GOLDEN RULE BARBECUE TRUSSVILLE
PHOTO: MHI PHOTOGRAPHY, LLC
DINING GYROS CAFÉ
5614 Chalkville Rd, Trussville 205-856-2424 HABANERO’S MEXICAN GRILLGARDENDALE
835 Odum Rd., Ste. 115, Gardendale, 205-608-2168 HABANERO’S MEXICAN GRILL – TRUSSVILLE
1477 Gadsden Hwy, #126, Trussville 205-655-7380 JALISCO MEXICAN RESTAURANTE
325 Walker Chapel Plaza, Fultondale 205-849-2137 JIM N NICK’S BAR B Q - GARDENDALE
915 Odum Rd., Gardendale 205-608-3315, www.jimnnicks.com
JIM N NICK’S BAR B Q - TRUSSVILLE
1660 Gadsden Hwy., Birmingham 205-661-3100, www.jimnnicks.com
JOEL’S RESTAURANT
MILO’S HAMBURGERS - TRUSSVILLE
KONOMI
MING’S GARDEN
312 Main St., Trussville, 205-655-8248, www.joelsrestaurant.net
5887 Trussville Crossing Pkwy., Birmingham, 205-661-2100 www.miloshamburgers.com
5870 Trussville Crossings Blvd., Birmingham, 205-661-1821 LEE GARDEN CHINESE RESTAURANT
1423 Gadsden Hwy, Ste. 111, Trussville 205-655-1138
MILO’S HAMBURGERS - FORESTDALE
1120 Forestdale Blvd., Forestdale 205-798-6363 www.miloshamburgers.com
MILO’S HAMBURGERS - GARDENDALE
604 Fieldstown Rd., Gardendale 205-608-0050 www.miloshamburgers.com
MILO’S HAMBURGERS - ROEBUCK
209 Gadsden Hwy., Birmingham 205-833-6363 www.miloshamburgers.com
1046 Main St., Gardendale, 205-631-7746 MOE’S SOUTHWEST GRILL – TRUSSVILLE
5870 Trussville Crossing Blvd, Ste. 102, Trussville, 205-655-9669 www.moes.com PALACE CHINESE RESTAURANT
5899 Trussville Crossing Pkwy, Suite 105, Trussville, 205-661-1668 PORKY’S PRIDE SMOKE HOUSE
2516 Walker Chapel Rd., Fultondale 205-849-5122 RED LANTERN CHINESE RESTAURANT
311 Main St., Trussville, 205-655-0736
EXPERIENCE A SLICE OF BIRMINGHAM
Join the Slice family for our city’s best pizza and brew.
Slice Stone Pizza & Brew 725 29th Street South (205) 715-9300 www.slicebirmingham.com
EAT LOCAL. DRINK LOCAL. BE LOCAL. 8 0 0 . 4 5 8 . 8 0 8 5 | W W W. B I R M I N G H A M . T R AV E L | 7 1
DINING MAGNOLIA GRILLE RESTAURANT
5320 Beacon Dr, Rime Garden Inn, Irondale, 205-951-1250 or 951-1223
MILO’S HAMBURGERS - EASTWOOD
1530 Montclair Rd., Birmingham 205-951-2889 www.miloshamburgers.com MUNOZ MEXICAN GRILL
6662 Hwy. 75, Ste. 209, Pinson 205-681-6992 NEW CHINA BUFFET
7307 Crestwood Blvd, Birmingham 205-599-5558 NEW CHINA WAY RESTAURANT
5220 Oporto-Madrid Blvd S, Birmingham, 205-595-5300 OLD SMOKEY BAR-B-Q
7323 Pkwy. Dr., Leeds, 205-699-7904 ROADSIDE BAR B Q RIBS & CHICKEN ROCK N ROLL SUSHI
5078 Pinnacle Square, Ste. 106, Trussville, 205-655-6040 www.rockandrollsushibar.com SHERRY’S CAFÉ CATERING CAKES
5800 Valley Rd, Ste. 110, Trussville 205-655-5260, FAX 205-655-5259 www.sherrysfloralandcatering.com SOUTHERN DINER
5961 Chalkville Mountain Lane, Birmingham, 205-874-6804 www.thesoutherndiner.com
EL GIRASOL RESTAURANT
8506 1st Avenue North, Huffman, 205-836-4038 ERNIE’S THREE OAKS DELI
4500 Montevallo Rd., Ste. E105, Birmingham, 205-951-0109 GOLDEN RULE BARBECUE IRONDALE
2504 Crestwood Blvd., Irondale 205-956-2678, www.goldenrulebbq.com GUS’S HOT DOGS
5415 Beacon Drive, Suite 139, Irondale 205-956-6622 HACIENDA MEXICAN GRILL
Airport, Center Point, Eastwood, Irondale, Leeds COSTA’S FAMOUS BAR-B-QUE HUFFMAN CENTERPOINT
613 Springville Rd., Birmingham 205-853-9933, www.costasfamous.com
CRESTWOOD COFFEE COMPANY
5512 Crestwood Blvd., Birmingham 205-595-0300 www.myspace.com/crestwoodcoffee EL CAZADOR MEXICAN GRILL
1540 Montclair Rd., Birmingham 205-951-1205
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1676 Montclair Rd., Birmingham 205-956-2550 www.haciendamexicangrill.com
7303 1st Ave. N., Birmingham 205-833-9616 RUSTY’S BAR-B-Q
7484 Parkway Dr., Leeds 205-699-4766 rustysbarbeque.com SAMMY’S OLD FASHIONED HOT DOGS
7883 Crestwood Blvd, Irondale 205-956-4364 SAMMY’S SANDWICH SHOP
4921 Messer Airport Hwy., Birmingham 205-591-1462 SHANGRI-LA RESTAURANT
4500 Montevallo Rd., Ste. B103, Birmingham, 205-951-3168 VILLA FIESTA MEXICAN RESTAURANT
HAMBURGER HEAVEN
7950 Crestwood Blvd, Irondale 205-956-3607
IRONDALE CAFÉ, THE ORIGINAL WHISTLESTOP CAFÉ
Homewood, Mountain Brook, Inverness
1703 Crestwood Blvd., Birmingham 205-951-3570
1906 1st Ave. N., Irondale, 205-956-5258, www.irondalecafe.com KEN’S HICKORY PIT BARBECUE
4817 Pinson Valley Pkwy., Birmingham 205-853-6488 KRISPY KREME DOUGHNUTS
8601 First Ave. N., Birmingham 205-836-3251
32 DEGREES, A YOGURT BAR
229 Country Club Pk, Suite 229, Mountain Brook 205-871-7328 www.facebook.com/32degreesyogurt ACAPULCO BAR AND GRILL
430 Green Springs Hwy., Birmingham 205-941-1183
PHOTO: BRENT BOYD
DINING AMORE RISTORANTE ITALIANO
5510 Hwy. 280, Ste. 116, Birmingham 205-437-1005, www.letsamore.com ANOTHER BROKEN EGG CAFÉ 2418 Montevallo Rd., Birmingham 205-871-7849 www.anotherbrokenegg.com
BONGIORNO ITALIAN RESTAURANT
68 Church St., Ste. A, Birmingham 205-879-5947 www.bongiornoitalianrestaurant.com BRIO TUSCAN GRILLE
591 Brookwood Village, Birmingham 205-879-9177, www.brioitalian.com
CHURCH STREET COFFEE & BOOKS
81 Church Street, Suite 106-107, Birmingham, 205-870-1117 www.churchstreetshop.com CHUY’S RESTAURANT
216 Summit Blvd, Ste. 135, Birmingham 205-977-4224, www.chuys.com
AUSTIE’S DELI 3800 Colonnade Pkwy., Ste. 120, Birmingham, 205-969-1046
CARRABBA’S ITALIAN GRILL
AVO 2721 Cahaba Rd., Mountain Brook 205-871-8212, www.avorestaurant.com
CHEN EXPRESS
BELLINIS RISTORANTE 6801 Cahaba Valley Rd., Hoover 205-981-5380, www.ourbellinis.com
CHEZ LULU
BILLY’S SPORTS GRILL 2012 Cahaba Rd., Mountain Brook 205-879-2238, www.billysbarandgrill.com
CHICAGO MIKE’S HOT DOGS
COSTA’S FAMOUS BAR-B-QUE WILDWOOD
2701 18th Street S, Homewood, 205-868-4728
215 Lakeshore Pkwy., Homewood 205-263-0145
BLACK PEARL ASIAN CUISINE
CHOP SUEY INN
COURTYARD 280 OYSTER BAR & GRILL
3419 Colonnade Pkwy., Birmingham, 205-262-9888
4503 Riverview Pkwy., Birmingham 205-980-1016, www.carrabbas.com 221 Country Club Park, Birmingham 205-871-7588 1911 Cahaba Rd., Mountain Brook 205-870-7011, www.chezlulu.us
813 Green Springs Hwy., Ste. F, Homewood, 205-942-9782
COCINA SUPERIOR
587 Brookwood Village, Birmingham 205-259-1980 www.thecocinasuperior.com CONTINENTAL BAKERY
1909 Cahaba Rd., Mountain Brook 205-870-5584, www.continentalbakery.us
4643 Hwy. 280, Ste. M, Birmingham 205-980-9891
205.967.3300
mudtownalabama.com Open Lunch & Dinner 7 days a week
3144 Green Valley Rd in Cahaba Heights
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DINING CRAPE MYRTLE’S CAFÉ
DISH’N IT OUT
CRAZY CAJUNS’ BOILING POT
DODIYOS
2721 18th St. S., Homewood 205-879-7891 125 Inverness Plaza, Birmingham 205-408-0630
CRESTLINE BAGEL CO.
66 Church St. Ste. B, Birmingham 205-871-4583, www.crestlinebagel.com DAVENPORT’S PIZZA PALACE
1113 Dunston Ave, Birmingham 205-871-5444, www.dishnitout.com 1831 28th Ave. S., Ste. 110, Homewood 205-453-9300, www.dodiyos.com DON PEPE MEXICAN GRILL
230 Doug Baker Blvd, Suite 300, Inverness, 205-408-3880 DYRON’S LOWCOUNTRY
2837 Cahaba Rd., Mountain Brook 205-879-8603
121 Oak St., Birmingham 205-834-8257 www.dyronslowcountry.com
DAVE’S PIZZA
EDGAR’S OLD STYLE BAKERY
1819 29th Ave. S., Homewood 205-871-3283 DEMETRI’S BAR-B-Q
1901 28th Ave. S., Homewood 205-871-1581, www.demetrisbbq.com DEVINCI’S PIZZA
2707 18th St. S., Homewood 205-879-1455 DG
2837 Culver Rd., Mountain Brook 205-871-3266, www.danielgeorgerestaurant.com
3407 Colonnade Pkwy, Birmingham 205-968-4031, www.edgarsbakery.com EDGEWOOD CREAMERY
936 Oxmoor Rd., Homewood 205-874-1999 EL POBLANO MEXICAN RESTAURANT
2499 Rocky Ridge Rd., Cahaba Heights, 205.823.0447, www.elpoblanorestaurant.com EL SOL CANTINA & TAQUERIA
328 Valley Ave, Homewood 205-945-4900
FISH MARKET RESTAURANT
5407 Hwy. 280, Birmingham 205-980-8600 www.fishmarketrestaurant.com FLEMING’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE AND WINE BAR
103 Summit Blvd., Birmingham 205-262-9463 www.flemingssteakhouse.com
FLIP MODERN BURGER BOUTIQUE
220 Summit Blvd., Ste. 140, Birmingham 205-968-2000 www.flipburgerboutique.com FULL MOON BAR-B-QUE HOMEWOOD
337 Valley Ave., Homewood 205-945-9997, www.fullmoonbbq.com FULL MOON BAR-B-QUE - HWY. 280
4635 Hwy. 280 S., Birmingham 205-991-7328, www.fullmoonbbq.com THE GARDENS CAFE BY KATHY G.
2612 Lane Park Rd., Birmingham 205-871-1000 GEORGE'S LEBANESE & AMERICAN CUISINE
44 Green Springs Hwy., Homewood, 205-942-1962 www.georgeslebanese.com GIANMARCO’S
721 Broadway St., Homewood 205-871-9622 GILCHRIST DRUG COMPANY
2805 Cahaba Rd., Birmingham 205-871-2181 GINZA SUSHI & KOREAN BBQ
5291 Valleydale Rd., Ste. 101, Hoover 205-981-1616 GUS’S HOT DOGS – CRESTLINE VILLAGE
71 Church Street, Mountain Brook 205-871-3938 HAMBURGER HEAVEN
5303 Hwy. 280, Birmingham 205-981-6402 www.hamburgerheavenrestaurant.com HAMBURGER HEAVEN
180 Oxmoor Blvd, Homewood 205-941-1668 HOMEWOOD DINER
162 Oxmoor Rd., Homewood 205-941-9444 homewooddiner.blogspot.com 74 | BIRMINGHAM TOURIST GUIDE
DINING HOMEWOOD GOURMET
1919 28th Ave S, #113, Homewood 205-871-1620, www.homewoodgourmet.com HUNAN CUISINE CHINESE RESTAURANT
5510 Hwy. 280 S., Ste. 113-114, Birmingham, 205-437-1000 www.hunancuisinebham.com HUNAN WOK
429 Green Springs Hwy., Ste. 121, Homewood, 205-941-9808 IXTAPA MEXICAN RESTAURANT
4673 Hwy. 280, Birmingham 205-980-8266 IZ CAFÉ ENGLISH VILLAGE
2037 Cahaba Rd., Mountain Brook 205-414-0081, www.everythingiz.com JACKSON’S BAR & BISTRO
1831 28th Ave. S., Ste. 175, Homewood 205-870-9669 JIM N NICK’S BAR B Q - GREYSTONE
2831 Greystone Commercial Blvd., Birmingham, 205-991-1306 www.jimnnicks.com
JIM N NICK’S BAR B Q - HOMEWOOD
220 Oxmoor Rd., Homewood 205-942-3336, www.jimnnicks.com JINSEI SUSHI BAR & LOUNGE
1830 29th Ave. S., Ste. 125, Homewood 205-802-1440, www.jinseisushi.com JOE’S CRAB SHACK
20 Meadow View Dr, Inverness 205-981-2999, www.joescrabshack.com JOHNNY RAY’S BAR-B-QUE
KOSHER CAFÉ
3960 Montclair Rd., Birmingham 205-386-3130 LA PAZ RESTAURANTE
99 Euclid Ave, Birmingham 205-879-2225, www.lapazbham.com LA SABROSITA
293 West Valley Ave., Homewood 205-290-0511 LANDRY’S SEAFOOD HOUSE
139 State Farm Pkwy., Homewood 205-916-0777 www.landrysseafoodhouse.com LITTLE DONKEY TAQUERIA
2821 Central Avenue, Homewood 205-703-7000 www.thelittledonkey.com LLOYD’S RESTAURANT
5301 Hwy. 280 S., Birmingham 205-991-5530 LOS COMPADRES MEXICAN RESTAURANT
308 Oxmoor Rd., Homewood 205-945-8002 MAFIAOZA’S PIZZERIA & NEIGHBORHOOD PUB
MAKI FRESH
MOE’S SOUTHWEST GRILL – MOUNTAIN BROOK
2800 Cahaba Village Plaza, Birmingham 205-970-3242, www.makifresh.com MARTA’S BAKERY
3936 Crosshaven Dr, Birmingham 205-969-2253
MELLOW MUSHROOM – HWY 280
KOBE JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE & SUSHI BAR
3501 Grandview Pkwy, Birmingham 205-298-0200, www.ekobe.com
PHOTO: BRENT BOYD
514 Cahaba Park Cir, Birmingham 205-991-3803 3278 Cahaba Heights Rd., Birmingham, 205-967-6004
JOJO’S ON BROADWAY
11 West Park Circle, Homewood 205-942-4210, www.kathyg.com
MING’S CUISINE
MISS MYRA’S PIT BARBECUE
3431 Colonnade Pkwy., Ste. 500, Birmingham, 205-967-0099 www.johnnyrays.com
KATHY G & COMPANY (CATERING)
1210 Inverness Corners, Birmingham 205-991-6456 www.miloshamburgers.com
2 Dexter Ave., Birmingham 205-414-7878, www.mafiaozas.com
MAX’S DELI
903 Broadway St., Homewood 205-877-8058, www.jojosonbroadwaygastropub.com
MILO’S HAMBURGERS – INVERNESS
3431 Colonnade Pkwy., Ste. 400, Birmingham, 205-968-7600 www.maxsdelionline.com
2737 Hwy 280, Suite 161 205-445-0456, www.moes.com MOE’S SOUTHWEST GRILL – WILDWOOD
231 State Farm Pkwy, Homewood 205-943-7942, www.moes.com MOMMA GOLDBERG’S DELI
2829 18th St. S., Homewood 205-834-8871 www.mommagoldbergsdeli.com
920 Inverness Corners, Birmingham 205-981-9914 www.mellowmushroom.com
MOUNTAIN BROOK CREAMERY
MICHAEL’S RESTAURANT @ ALOFT HOTEL
MR. WANG’S RESTAURANT
1903 29th Ave. S., Homewood 205-871-9525, www.eatatmichaels.com
217 Lakeshore Pkwy., Homewood 205-945-9000 www.mrwangsbuffet.com
MILO’S HAMBURGERS - HOMEWOOD
MUDTOWN
208 State Farm Pkwy., Homewood 205-945-8008 www.miloshamburgers.com
2715 Cahaba Rd., Mountain Brook 205-870-0092
3144 Green Valley Rd., Birmingham 205-967-3300 www.mudtownalabama.com
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DINING
OUR CAFFEINE IS NOT ROUTINE After a day of seeing the sights, there’s nothing like a good cup of java to give you that extra boost for the evening ahead. Of course, you could go to Starbucks, but we recommend drinking local. Birmingham has some righteously good coffee houses with flavorful brew that attracts an interesting crowd. Here are a few: • CHURCH STREET COFFEE AND BOOKS – A local coffee shop thrives in a space where a Starbucks couldn’t! How’s that for local love? This place became an immediate favorite by offering delicious coffees, an interesting book selection and delicious baked goods. churchstreetshop.com • CRESTLINE BAGEL COMPANY – The freshbrewed coffee here is accompanied by madefrom-scratch bagels, pastries and sandwiches. This shop sits in the heart of beautiful suburban Mountain Brook. crestlinebagel.com • CRESTWOOD COFFEE – This gathering spot proudly serves organic fair trade coffee from local FinerGrind Roasters, specialty espresso drinks, microbrews and wine. birminghammenus.com/restaurant/?id=89 • LUCY’S COFFEE & TEA – What started in
76 | BIRMINGHAM TOURIST GUIDE
1993 as a coffee cart has become one of Birmingham’s favorite spots. Open weekdays serving homemade soups, salads, sandwiches and a full espresso menu. lucyscoffeeandtea.com • O’HENRY’S COFFEES – O’Henry’s pours coffees from the top one percent of coffee in the world, roasted locally and in small batches. Several locations around the city make for convenient sipping. ohenryscoffees.com • THE RED CAT – This cozy spot in historic Pepper Place roasts its fair trade coffee on site and often has live acoustic music or improv at night. They also serve beer, wine and light sandwiches. theredcatcoffeehouse.com • SEEDS COFFEE COMPANY – Seeds, the only nonprofit coffee roaster in Birmingham, has a diverse selection of flavors, along with live music and a friendly atmosphere. seedscoffee.com • URBAN STANDARD – This coffee shop brings a European vibe to downtown’s busy Second Avenue. Funky décor and hip patrons make this an interesting place to grab coffee with breakfast, lunch or supper on weekdays. urbanstandard.net It’s all good to the last drop!
DINING NABEEL’S CAFÉ & MARKET
1706 Oxmoor Rd., Homewood 205-879-9292, www.nabeels.com NAJI’S PITA GOURMET RESTAURANT
166 West Valley Ave, Homewood 205-945-6001 NEW YORK PIZZA
1010 Oxmoor Rd., Homewood 205-871-4000 NEWK’S EATERY
2800 Cahaba Village Plaza, Mountain Brook, 205-969-5584, www.newks.com OAK HILL BAR & GRILL
2835 18th St. S., Homewood 205-870-8277 O’CARR’S DELI
2909 18th St. S., Homewood 205-879-2196 www.birminghammenus.com/ocarrs O’CARR’S DELI
3150 Cahaba Heights Village Rd., Birmingham, 205-967-4173 www.ocarrs.com O’HENRY’S COFFEES - DOWNTOWN HOMEWOOD
2831 18th St. S., Homewood 205-870-1198, www.ohenryscoffee.com OLEXA’S
Mountain Brook Village, 2838 Culver Rd., Birmingham, 205-871-2060 OLIVE BRANCH
3236 Cahaba Heights Rd., Birmingham 205-967-4600 ON TAP SPORTS CAFE - INVERNESS
PHO QUE HUONG VIETNAMESE RESTAURANT
430 Green Springs Hwy., Ste. 15, Homewood, 205-942-5400 PINKBERRY FROZEN YOGURT
216 Summit Blvd, Suite 105, Birmingham 205-968-6577 PRIMEAUX CHEESE AND VINO
300 Summit Blvd., Birmingham 205.623.5593, , www. primeauxcheeseandvino.com
PURPLE ONION DELI & GRILL HOMEWOOD
479 Green Springs Hwy., Homewood 205-941-9979 RED PEARL RESTAURANT
243 West Valley Ave., Homewood 205-945-9558 RIVER CITY GRILLE
Birmingham Marriott, 3590 Grandview Pkwy., Birmingham, 205-968-3775 ROMANO’S MACARONI GRILL
241 Summit Blvd, Birmingham 205-298-7998 www.macaronigrill.com RUTH’S CHRIS STEAKHOUSE
2300 Woodcrest Place, Homewood 205-879-9995, www.ruthschris.com SABOR LATINO RESTAURANT & LOUNGE
112 Green Springs Hwy., Homewood 205-942-9480 SALEM’S DINER
SALSARITA’S FRESH CANTINA
OTEY’S TAVERN
SAM’S DELI & GRILL
OVER EASY
358 Hollywood Blvd, Homewood 205-639-1910, www.eatovereasy.com P. F. CHANG’S
1115 Dunston Avenue, Birmingham 205-745-3920 SEASONS 52 RESTAURANT
245 Summit Blvd., Birmingham 205-968-5152, www.seasons52.com STEEL CITY POPS
2821 Central Avenue, Ste. 109, Homewood 205-969-8770, steelcitypops.com STEELE’S
8 Perimeter Park S., Birmingham 205-972-8602 SUPERIOR GRILL
4701 Hwy. 280 S., Birmingham 205-991-5112 www.superiorgrillbirmingham.com/ SURIN 280
16 Perimeter Park S., Birmingham 205-968-8161 SURIN OF THAILAND
64 Church St., Birmingham 205-871-4531, www.surinofthailand.com TAIPEI 101 SUSHI AND ASIAN BISTRO
471 Green Springs Hwy, Homewood 205-912-7037
TAQUERIA GUZMAN (AKA THE TACO TRUCK)
215 W. Valley Ave., Homewood
932 Oxmoor Rd, Homewood 205-871-0383 SAM’S SUPER SANDWICHES
2812 18th St. S., Homewood 205-871-0046
SATTERFIELD’S RESTAURANT
3161 Cahaba Heights Rd., Ste. 113, Birmingham, 205-969-9690, www.satterfieldsrestaurant.com
PABLO’S RESTAURANTE & CANTINA
SAVAGE’S BAKERY & RESTAURANT
PHOTO: BRENT BOYD
SAW’S JUKE JOINT
1831 28th Ave. S., Ste. 160, Homewood 205-870-9373, www.salsaritas.com
233 Summit Blvd., Birmingham 205-967-0040, www.pfchangs.com 3439 Colonnade Pkwy., Birmingham 205-969-1411
1008 Oxmoor Rd., Homewood 205-879-1937
2913 18th St. S., Homewood 205-877-8797, www.salemsdiner.com
810 Inverness Corners, Birmingham 205-437-1999 www.ontapsportscafe.com
224 Country Club Park, Birmingham 205-871-8435
SAW’S BBQ
2916 18th St. S., Homewood 205-871-4901, www.savagesbakery.net 8 0 0 . 4 5 8 . 8 0 8 5 | W W W. B I R M I N G H A M . T R AV E L | 7 7
DINING BRYANT’S SEAFOOD RESTAURANT
3096 Allison Bonnett Memorial Dr, Hueytown, 205-491-5652
CHINA KING CHINESE RESTAURANT
4760 Eastern Valley Rd, Suite 102, McCalla, 205-477-8388 CHINA SEA
3102 Allison Bonnett Memorial Dr, Hueytown, 205-491-7500 CHINA WOK
3979 Parkwood Rd, Suite 111, Bessemer 205-428-8801 CLASSIC BURGER
1732 15th Street North, Bessemer 204-424-5742 EAGLES RESTAURANT
2610 16 Street North, Birmingham 205-320-0099, www.eaglerestaurant TAZIKI’S GREEK FARE
2737 Hwy 280, Suite 121, Mtn. Brook, 205-870-0455 TAZIKI’S GREEK FARE – COLONNADE
URBAN COOKHOUSE AT THE SUMMIT
250 Summit Blvd, Ste. 102, Birmingham 205-969-6700 www.urbancookhouse.com
3439 Colonnade Parkway, Ste. 1700, Birmingham, 205-968-6622 www.tazikis.net
VILLAGE TAVERN
THE BACK NINE CLUBHOUSE & GRILLE
VINO
101 Summit Blvd., Birmingham 205-970-1640, www.villagetavern.com
611 Doug Baker Blvd., Ste. 105, Birmingham, 205-981-4588 www.myspace.com/loungeguy
1930 Cahaba Rd, Mountain Brook 205-870-8404 www.vinobirmingham.com
THE BASKITS
ZOE’S KITCHEN - CRESTLINE
801 Green Springs Hwy., Homewood 205-916-0401
225 Country Club Park, Birmingham 205-871-0060, www.zoeskitchen.com
THE CHEESECAKE FACTORY
ZOE’S KITCHEN - HOMEWOOD
236 Summit Blvd., Birmingham 205-262-1800 THE PANTRY BY STONE HOLLOW FARMSTEAD
17 Dexter Ave., Mountain Brook 205-803-3585, www.thefarmsteadpantry.com TIN DRUM ASIA CAFÉ
214 Summit Blvd, Ste. 550, Birmingham 205-968-8083, www.tindrumcafe.com TRACY’S
75 Church St., Birmingham 205-803-3005 URBAN COOKHOUSE
2846 18th Street, Homewood 205-879-0883 www.urbancookhouse.com 78 | BIRMINGHAM TOURIST GUIDE
1830 29th Ave. S., Ste. 155, Homewood 205-870-1100, www.zoeskitchen.com ZOE’S KITCHEN - SUMMIT
323 Summit Blvd., Birmingham 205-967-5800, www.zoeskitchen.com
Bessemer, West ALL ORIGINAL PIZZA
4760 Eastern Valley Road, Suite 122, McCalla, 205-477-1123
GOLDEN DRAGON I
2227 Bessemer Rd., Birmingham 205-788-8730 HABANERO’S MEXICAN GRILL
3048 Allison Bonnett Memorial Dr., Hueytown, 205-491-9974 HABANERO’S MEXICAN GRILL
4863 Promenade Parkway, Ste. 103, Bessemer, 205-438-1558 HOME PLATE DINER
2780 Allison Bonnett Dr, Hueytown 205-744-8855 JADE GARDEN
760 Academy Drive, Ste. 112, Bessemer 205-428-5878 KRISPY KREME DOUGHNUTS
96 Weibel Dr., Midfield, 205-923-2016 LOS SOMBERO’S
5031 Ford Pkwy, Suite 107, Bessemer 205-425-8887 MAIN MOON CHINESE RESTAURANT
737 9th Avenue North, Bessemer 205-425-7277
MILO’S HAMBURGERS - BESSEMER
1724 9th Avenue North, Bessemer 205-426-1400
757 Academy Dr., Bessemer 205-426-1650 www.miloshamburgers.com
THE BRIGHT STAR
MILO’S HAMBURGERS - FAIRFIELD
BOB SYKES BARBEQUE
304 19th St. N., Bessemer 205-426-1861, www.thebrightstar.com
6600 EJ Oliver Blvd., Fairfield 205-788-6456
DINING MUFFALLETTA’S PIZZA AND PASTA
1810 9th Ave. N., Bessemer 205-424-9901 NIKI’S WEST
233 Finley Ave. W., Birmingham 205-252-5751 PIKE’S HICKORY PIT
515 West Town Plaza, Bessemer 205-428-1538 RAILROAD CAFE
1205 Lake Dr. SE., Ste. 111, Bessemer 205-424-1073 SAN ANTONIO GRILL – MCCALLA
4760 Eastern Valley Rd, Suite 140, McCalla, 205-477-1110
SMOKEHOUSE STEAK & SEAFOOD RESTAURANT
348 Finley Ave. W., Birmingham 205-323-6427 or 328-2247 TOP THAT GRILLE II
1371 Bessemer Rd., Birmingham 205-923-2422 UNCLE SAM’S BARBECUE
3043 Allison Bonnett Memorial Dr, Hueytown, 205-491-1333 www.unclesamsbbq.com
Hoover, Vestavia AMIGO’S MEXICAN GRILL
3659 Lorna Rd, #133, Hoover 205-682-8090
BONEFISH GRILL
3430 Galleria Circle, Hoover 205-985-9545, www.bonefishgrill.com BROCK’S
4000 Grand Ave., Hoover, 205-949-3051 CAFE LAZIO
181 Main St., Ste. 241, Hoover 205-403-7480, www.cafelazio.net CAJUN STEAMER BAR AND GRILL
180 Main St., Ste. 200, Hoover 205-985-7785, www.cajunsteamer.com CHINA BEN
EARTHFARE, THE HEALTHY SUPERMARKET
3230 Galleria Circle, Hoover 205-988-2938, www.earthfare.com EDGAR’S OLD STYLE BAKERY
180 Main St., Ste. 240, Hoover 205-987-0790, www.edgarsbakery.com FIREBIRDS ROCKY MOUNTAIN GRILL
191 Main St., Hoover 35244-5060 205-733-2002 www.firebirdsrestaurants.com FISH MARKET RESTAURANT
790 Hwy. 31 S., Ste. 102, Vestavia Hills 205-823-8920
1681 Montgomery Hwy., Hoover 205-823-3474 www.fishmarketrestaurant.com
CHINA DOLL 2
FOODBAR
2656 Valleydale Rd., Hoover 205-980-7151 CHIPOTLE MEXICAN GRILL
1759 Montgomery Hwy., Hoover 205-982-4833, www.chipotle.com COSTA’S MEDITERRANEAN CAFE
3443 Lorna Rd., Hoover, 205-978-1603 DALE’S SOUTHERN GRILL
3156 Heights Village, Vestavia Hills, 205-876-8100, www.foodbarbham.com FULL MOON BAR-B-QUE - HOOVER
2000 Patton Chapel Rd., Hoover 205-822-6666 GABRIEL’S SPIRITED CAFE
3706 Lorna Rd., Hoover 205-985-0983, www.gabrielscafe.net
1843 Montgomery Hwy, Suite 107, Birmingham, 205-987-4757 www.dalessoutherngrills.com
GOLDEN RULE BARBECUE HOOVER
DIPLOMAT DELICATESSEN & SPIRITS
HABANEROS MEXICAN GRILL
1413 Montgomery Hwy., Ste. 101, Vestavia Hills, 205-979-1515
1571 Montgomery Hwy., Hoover 205-823-7770, www.goldenrulebbq.com 1601 Montgomery Hwy., Hoover 205-979-7772
ASIAN RIM
3419 Colonnade Pkwy, Suite 100, Birmingham, 205-490-1444, www.asianrim.com BAKER’S FAMOUS PIZZA
757 Shades Mountain Plaza, Hoover 205-822-4848 www.bakersfamouspizza.com BILLY’S SPORTS GRILL
4520 Overton Rd., Suite 104, Birmingham, 205-956-2323 www.billysbarandgrill.com BISTRO V
521 Montgomery Hwy., Ste. 113, Vestavia Hills, 205-823-1505, www.bistro-v.com BLUFF PARK DINER
591 Shades Crest Rd., Birmingham 205-824-4320
PHOTO: BRENT BOYD
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DINING HAPPY CHINA CHINESE RESTAURANT
4524 Southlake Pkwy, Suite 28, Hoover 205-403-6188 HUNAN GARDEN
1851 Montgomery Hwy, Hoover 205-987-9499 ICHIBAN JAPANESE STEAK HOUSE
620 Old Towne Rd., Vestavia 205-822-4646 IRON HORSE CAFÉ
1694 Montgomery Hwy., Ste. 184, Birmingham, 205-978-5599 www.ironhorsecafe.net IZ CAFÉ ROCKY RIDGE
2514 Rocky Ridge Road, Hoover 205-979-7570, www.everythingiz.com J. ALEXANDER’S RESTAURANT
STREET EATS Don’t want to stop touring Birmingham for a sit-down meal? Then keep on truckin’ with food in hand from one of the city’s diners in motion. There are others, but these are favorites: • MELT – This food truck is a modern twist on classic comfort food, the grilled cheese sandwich. Order it plain or dress it up with onions, bacon or pulled pork. • SPOONFED GRILL – Specializing in Southern soul food, this truck serves up staples such as sweet potatoes and collard greens. Here you’ll also find Latin, French and Japanese world cuisine. • FRESH OFF THE BUN – This mobile cuisine consists of high end Vietnamese sandwiches made with fresh herbs, meats or tofu, and a mix of Vietnamese and Cajun spices for a quick, healthy meal. • TAQUERIA GUZMAN TACO TRUCK – Birmingham’s first meal on wheels is still among its most popular. Usually found on West Valley Avenue in the suburb of Homewood, the taco truck takes cash only. Go prepared. • DREAMCAKES – Don’t be snooty; cupcakes never go out of fashion. Find a delicious dessert variety aboard the Dreamcakes truck. • 80 POPS – These amazing sweet treats were developed with the help of Birmingham rockstar chef Chris Hastings of Hot & Hot Fish Club and Iron Chef America fame. Try scuppernong and sweet corn, but if you want the best, go for the buttermilk popsicle. Some of the above mentioned also have stationary locations. Follow the food trucks daily at roaminghunger.com/bhm.
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3320 Galleria Circle, Hoover 205-733-9995 or 733-9537 www.jalexanders.com
JIM N NICK’S BAR B Q - RIVERCHASE
1810 Montgomery Hwy. S., Hoover 205-733-1300, www.jimnnicks.com JUBILEE JOE’S FRESH SEAFOOD MARKET & RESTAURANT
2341 John Hawkins Pkwy., Ste. 119, Hoover, 205-982-7797 www.jubileejoes.com JOHNNY BRUSCO’S NEW YORK STYLE PIZZA
2516 Rocky Ridge Rd, Vestavia 205-637-5270 KLINGLER’S EUROPEAN BAKERY & CAFE
621 Montgomery Hwy., Vestavia Hills , 205-823-4560 www.birminghammenus.com/klinglers KRISPY KREME DOUGHNUTS
1990 New Patton Chapel Rd., Hoover 205-822-8272 LA DOLCE VITA
1851 Montgomery Hwy. S., Ste. 107, Birmingham, 205-985-2909 LA FIESTA
1941 Hoover Court, Ste. A, Hoover 205-979-7314 MANDARIN HOUSE
1550 Montgomery Hwy., Ste. O, Hoover, 205-822-1761
PHOTO: ARIK SOKOL
DINING MILO’S HAMBURGERS - VESTAVIA
1455 Montgomery Hwy., Vestavia Hills 205-823-6456 www.miloshamburgers.com MOE’S ORIGINAL BBQ
181 Main Street, Ste. 201, 205-985-8841 www.moesoriginalbbq.com MOE’S SOUTHWEST GRILL RIVERCHASE
3670 Lorna Road, Hoover 205-937-6163, www.moes.com MOE’S SOUTHWEST GRILL VESTAVIA HILLS
716 Montgomery Hwy, Suite 108 205-824-7663, www.moes.com MR. P’S BUTCHER SHOP & DELI
813 Shades Crest Rd., Hoover 205-823-6136 MUGSHOTS BAR & GRILL
1919 Kentucky Ave, #101, Vestavia Hills www.mugshotsgrillandbar.com NEW CHINA
2141 Tyler Road, Ste. 7, Hoover 205-823-9788 NEWK’S EATERY
612 Montgomery Hwy, Ste. 110, Vestavia Hills, 205-777-0442 www.newks.com ON TAP SPORTS CAFÉ – GALLERIA
3440 Galleria Circle, Hoover 205-988-3203 www.ontapsportscafe.com ORGANIC HARVEST MARKET & CAFE
SALVATORE’S PIZZA
1594 Montgomery Hwy., Ste. 102M, Hoover, 205-823-7206 SANPEGGIO’S PIZZA - HOOVER
3435 S. Shades Crest Rd., Ste. 115, Hoover, 205-403-0100 SEKISUI BIRMINGHAM
700 Montgomery Hwy, Vestavia Hills 205-978-7775 SHANE’S RIB SHACK
2673 Valleydale Rd – Hoover 205-874-6888, www.shanesribshack.com
TAQUERIA MEXICO
3724 Lorna Rd., Hoover 205-989-5559 TASTE OF THAILAND
3321 Lorna Rd., Ste. 3, Hoover 205-978-6863 TECATE BAR & GRILL
612 Montgomery Hwy, #100, Vestavia Hills, 205-823-2399 THE BOOT AT PRESERVE VILLAGE
SHIPLEY’S DO-NUTS
616 Preserve Pkwy, Hoover 205.978.8988, thebootatpreservevilagevpweb.com
SHULA’S STEAK HOUSE
THE PITA CAFE
2050 Greenvale Lane, Hoover 205-822-2142 Wynfrey Hotel. 1000 Riverchase Galleria, Hoover, 205-444-5750 www.donshula.com
2801 Hwy. 150, Ste. 137J, Hoover 205-402-7482
SILVER COIN INDIAN GRILL
3321 Lorna Rd., Hoover, 205-823-9070 www.silvercoinusa.com
588 Shades Crest Rd., Birmingham 205-978-8677
SOL AZTECA
TORTUGAS HOMEMADE PIZZA
1360 Montgomery Hwy., Ste. 128, Birmingham, 205-979-4902 SOUTHERN LEGACY BBQ & BREW
2943 John Hawkins Pkwy, Hoover 205-988-0744, www.legacybbq.com STIX
3250 Galleria Circle, Hoover 205-982-3070, www.stixonline.com SUMO JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE & SUSHI BAR
151 Main St., Hoover, 205-444-1515 www.esumo.com
TIP TOP GRILL
2801 John Hawkins Pkwy. Ste. 169R, Hoover, 205-403-9800 YUKI JAPANESE RESTAURANT
2760 John Hawkins Pkwy., Hoover 205-402-9888 ZAPATA MEXICAN RESTAURANT
2005 Valleydale Rd., Ste. 3, Hoover 205-733-1115 ZOE’S KITCHEN - PATTON CREEK
180 Main St., Ste. 140, Hoover 205-989-4020 www.zoeskitchen.com
1580 Montgomery Hwy., Ste. 12, Hoover, 205-978-0318 PABLO’S RESTAURANTE & CANTINA
2760 John Hawkins Pkwy., Hoover 205-682-1211 PAPPAS’ DELICIOUS FOODS
1066 Montgomery Hwy., Vestavia Hills, 205-823-4458 PARK AVENUE CAFÉ
571 Park Avenue, Hoover, 205-719-1717, www.parkavecafe.wix.com PURPLE ONION DELI & GRILL
1551 Montgomery Hwy., Hoover 205-822-7322 www.purpleonionofhoover.com
PHOTO: BRENT BOYD
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S P O TL IG H T: C RAFT BEER
WELCOME TO BEERMINGHAM Your Insider’s Guide to Birmingham’s Craft Beer and Brewing Community
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PHOTO: BRENT BOYD
S P O TL I G H T: CR A F T B E E R
BIRMINGHAM HAS A HISTORY OF local breweries spanning 200 years. First, there was the local brew house Birmingham Brewery, in the 1800s. That was followed by Birmingham Brewing Co., which supplied the city from 1992 to 1998. City Brewery replaced Birmingham Brewing Co., but closed in 2000. Opening and running a successful brewery was no easy task given Alabama’s strict beer laws. And for nearly a decade, there was no beer production in town and certainly no signature brews to offer outsiders on a thirst-inducing day. Then something of a revolution happened. In 2004 a group of concerned citizens gathered to discuss Alabama legislation; the topic was one of an effervescent nature. Nearly eight years and hours upon hours of volunteer manpower later, the Magic City is now a diamond in the rough where the craft beer scene is concerned, with a thriving community boasting four local breweries and two of our
favorite watering holes where you’ll find oneof-a-kind styles and flavors. Birmingham is witnessing a new industry form that is changing the face of burgeoning neighborhoods and giving residents something to toast about. It’s something we’re proud of and we celebrate it as often as possible with annual events, tours and just plain relaxing after work with a pint. Here, we introduce you to our own family of local breweries and some businesses that support them. Each of the breweries in this section have not only crafted their own unique brews, but they each have a distinct character and personality when you visit their taprooms. However, there are a few themes you will find that they all share: love of their product, love of people and love of their city. Please visit each of these places and mention that this guide pointed you in their directions and be sure to take home some swag!
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GOOD PEOPLE BREWING CO.
Good Brews, Good Times, Good Stuff The South hasn’t always experienced the craft beer renaissance it’s enjoying today. After graduating from college, Alabama-natives Jason Malone and Michael Sellers discovered a love of craft beer through overseas travel and dreamed of recreating the complex tastes in the South. Honing their craft over several years, the beers had humble beginnings—mostly served out of kegs and picnic pumps at tailgates. With friends’ encouragement and support, Jason and Michael emptied their savings and opened Good People Brewing Co. in 2006. Today, Good People is the oldest and largest brewery operating in the State of Alabama. Good People Brewing Co. is deeply committed to community and the values of the Southern maker and food cultures. Good People has five year-round offerings known as the “Ales from the Heart of Dixie.” PHOTO: WES FRAZER
Throughout the year, Good People Brewing Co. offers four seasonal beers including Bearded Lady (a wheat beer for summer), Mumbai Rye (a rye IPA for autumn), Fatso (a Russian imperial stout for winter), and Hitchhiker (a West Coast style IPA for spring), along with a handful of small batch offerings known as the Bearded Reserve. goodpeoplebrewing.com; 205-286-2337; 114 14th Street South, Birmingham, AL 35233; Taproom Hours: Mon—Fri: 3p-10p; Sat: 1p-10p; Sun: 1p-6p 8 0 0 . 4 5 8 . 8 0 8 5 | W W W. B I R M I N G H A M . T R AV E L | 8 3
S P O TL IG H T: C RAFT BEER
2
AVONDALE BREWING COMPANY Put Your Trunks Up!
Combine the charm of a historic town, the passion of several good friends, a rooted
respect for the brewing craft, and you have unearthed the beginning of what Avondale Brewing Company is all about. A byproduct of the collaboration between brothers Coby and Hunter Lake and brew master Craig Shaw, Avondale Brewing Company is a quaint craft brewery housed in a fully renovated, historic building in the Avondale neighborhood of Birmingham, Alabama. In just over a year, Avondale Brewing Company launched a complete line-up of 15 unique flagship and seasonal hand-crafted brews that tell the stories of the area’s rich folklore and neighborhood queen, a beer guzzling circus elephant named Miss Fancy. The brewery and a handful of other local small businesses have helped bring people back to this area to enjoy the benefits of a once again thriving community. avondalebrewingcompany.com; 205-777-5456; 201 41st Street S., Birmingham, AL 35222; Taproom Hours: Fri: 3p-12a; Sat: 12p-12a; Sun: 1p-10p; See our Facebook page for tour dates.
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CAHABA BREWING COMPANY Jump In!
Eric Meyer and Andy Gwaltney, friends with more than a common interest for craft beer and home brewing – came together to found a brewery to celebrate life’s passions and provide Birmingham with a broad selection of flavorful craft beers. With a love of the outdoors they named the brewery after Alabama’s iconic Cahaba River. In the summer of 2011 they devised a plan to build a brewery and thus Cahaba Brewing Company was born. Crafting excellent beer is their passion. Like the river itself, it is the source of the journey. They didn’t know what was around the bend, but this they did know—sitting on the bank was not an option. Now Eric and Andy are supplying Birmingham bars and restaurants with craft beers such as Liquidambar, American Blonde, Ryezome Stout, Oka Uba IPA and 84 | BIRMINGHAM TOURIST GUIDE
rotating seasonals. cahababrewing.com; 205-578-2616; 2616 3rd Avenue S., Birmingham, AL 35233; Taproom hours: Wed & Thu: 3p-9p; Fri: 3p-10p; Sat: 2p-10p PHOTOS: BRENT BOYD
S P O TL I G H T: ACR F TAEFRTDA B ER EK R
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TRIMTAB BREWING COMPANY Where Art Meets Craft
Birmingham welcomes its newest member to the local craft beer family, TrimTab Brewing Company. A trim tab is the small rudder on the larger rudder of a ship – an unassuming device that requires little effort to steer an ocean liner or airplane, no matter the size. Using that metaphor as a namesake, TrimTab Brewing is dedicated to three things: celebrating people that are small sources of large-scale change, crafting balanced beers, and having a lot of fun
while they do it. The brewery launched in 2014 after three long years of hard work transforming a 14,000 square foot car museum into a production brewery. With the combined efforts of brewers from some of the most respected breweries across the country, TrimTab Brewing showcases a wide portfolio of unique styles of beer ranging from their flagships TRIMTAB IPA and Pillar To Post Rye Brown, to seasonal favorites such as Cucumber Saison and Raspberry Berliner Weisse. Their “Tasting Gallery," part taproom, part art gallery, is dedicated to promoting regional artists whose work is continuously for sale. The space combines industrial and modern elements to create an atmosphere that is light, open and inviting for enjoying their masterfully crafted brews year-round. trimtabbrewing.com 2721 5th Avenue S., Birmingham, AL 35233 Tasting Gallery hours: Tue—Thu: 4-10p; Fri: 4-11p; Sat: 1-11p; Sun: 1-10p
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THE J. CLYDE
The Perfect Place for Pairings Beers from around the globe populate the 43 taps of The J. Clyde’s front bar, but what really distinguishes The J. Clyde as a local icon is the back bar—17 taps filled exclusively with beer from the great state of Alabama! With an expert staff and a wide variety of glassware, they ensure that every beer is poured properly and served in its appropriate vessel. The J. Clyde takes pride in supporting the local food community, too. Summer, fall, winter, and spring bring slates of vibrant and fresh local ingredients to craft seasonal culinary treats that pair perfectly with a fluid rotation of beers, some of which can be found only at The J. Clyde. Quarterly beer dinners showcase many of these pairings and educate neighbors and visitors about the unique nuances and expressions of world-class beer. Cheers! PHOTOS: BRENT BOYD
jclyde.com; 205-939-1312 1312 Cobb Lane, Birmingham, AL 35205 Hours: Mon—Wed: 2p-12p; Thu—Sat: 2p-2a 8 0 0 . 4 5 8 . 8 0 8 5 | W W W. B I R M I N G H A M . T R AV E L | 8 5
S P O TL IG H T: C RAFT BEER
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HOP CITY BEER AND WINE
Take a growler or two back to your hotel With a commitment to carry every single bottle or canned choice available in Alabama, coupled with 60 constantly rotating taps
for pints and growlers, Hop City is the goto spot for all things beer. Sprinkle in an informed selection of over 1,000 wines and you have a grown-up version of Willy Wonka’s factory. Magic City’s version of Hop City opened in September 2012. Hop City is one of the top ten beer retailers in the US, according to both Draft Magazine and Ratebeer.com. In addition, Beer Advocate has awarded their highest ranking for Hop City’s amazing service, knowledge, and selection. Swing by and enjoy a beer at the bar, browse the aisles for a favorite or a rarity, then fill a jug with a draft for that party this weekend. Ask for a recommendation – the team loves to talk beer and wine! Check the website for an event schedule including free weekly tastings and new beer launches. hopcitybeer.com; 205-279-2337 2924 3rd Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35233 Hours: Mon—Wed: 10a-9p; Thu—Sat: 10a-10p “Like” Hop City on Facebook to stay in the know.
RARE TRANSPORTATION Take The Brewery Tour!
Joel and Joyce Dabbs purchased Rare Transportation in 2008 as an extension of their other company, Apex Valet. Both companies work together to offer a turnkey solution to parking and transportation needs within the Birmingham metro area. While searching for inventive ways to market their transportation services, Joel and Joyce began offering wine tours for local groups as a part of Shelby County Wine Trails. This experience allowed them to easily create a one-stop shop for Brewery Tours in Birmingham as well. The Brewery Tour is a favorite among all the tours they offer. From Corporate Groups to Private Parties, Brewery Tours are sure to get the
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crowd going with a safe ride to and from each brewery and a fantastic way to spend time with family, friends, clients and coworkers. Rare Transportation specializes in group transportation utilizing 15 passenger vans to 32 passenger buses and serves local hotels, weddings, private events, nonprofits, corporate groups and our great friends at our local breweries. www.raretransportation.com Call 205-980-7273 to book a tour today!
PHOTOS: (TOP) BRENT BOYD; (BOTTOM ) B. BIRDWELL PHOTOGRAPHY
S P O TL I G H T: ACR F TAEFRTDA B ER EK R
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Take the Tour! Call 205-980-7273 for more information
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A GUIDE TO BIRMINGHAM AFTER DARK
WHERE TO SIP
When the day ends, more fun kicks in with lively choices of entertainment around the city. Catch a live theatrical production from one of a dozen companies in town. Take yourself out to the ballgame with the Birmingham Barons. See an exceptionally good performance by the Alabama Ballet. And by all means, find some live music‌. 88 | BIRMINGHAM TOURIST GUIDE
PHOTOGRAPH: BRENT BOYD
A F T E R DA R K
Southside and Downtown 3000 BAR
1100 20th Street S., Birmingham 205-933-3222 41ST STREET PUB & AIRCRAFT SALES
130 41st Street South, Suite 105 Birmingham 205-202-4187 www..41ststreetpub.com
AQUA LOUNGE & NIGHTCLUB
2824 5th Ave. S., Birmingham 205-714-8155
AVONDALE BREWING COMPANY
201 41st Street S., Birmingham 205-777-5456 www.avondalebrewing.com
BLACK MARKET BAR & GRILL
2011 Highland Ave S Birmingham 205-933-8035 www.evilbartenders.com
BLUE MONKEY LOUNGE
1318 Cobb Lane S., Birmingham 205-933-9222 www.bluemonkeylounge.com 3719 3rd Ave. S., Birmingham 205-533-6288 www.thebottletree.com CAHABA BREWING COMPANY TASTING
2616 3rd Avenue, South, Birmingham 205-578-2616 www.cahababrewing.com CANTINA TORTILLA GRILL
2901 2nd Ave. S., Ste. 110 Birmingham, 205-323-6980 www.cantinatortillagrill.com 815 24th Street N., Birmingham 205-324-2425 CLUB SOUTH
1102 10th St. S., Birmingham 205-251-0512
423 20th Street S, Birmingham 205-254-8700 DAVE’S PUB
1128 20th St. S., Birmingham, 205-933-4030
BOTTLETREE CAFÉ
CHASER’S SPORTS BAR
CRESCENDO BAR & LOUNGE
FORMAGGIO’S ITALIAN BISTRO
1713 10th Ave. S., Birmingham 205-933-7555
FUEGO CANTINA AND SALOON
1101 20th St. S., Birmingham 205-933-1544, www.fuegobirmingham. com GABLE SQUARE SALOON & GAMES
803 9th Court S., Birmingham 205-251-0960, www.myspace.com/ gablesquaresaloon GARAGE CAFÉ & ANTIQUES
2304 10th Terrace S., Birmingham 205-322-3220 GOOD PEOPLE BREWING COMPANY
114 14th Street S., Birmingham 205-286-2337 www.goodpeoplebrewing.com
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A F TE R DARK
INNISFREE IRISH PUB
710 29th St. S., Birmingham 205-252-4252, www.innisfreepub.com IRON CITY BIRMINGHAM
513 22nd St S, 205-202-5483 www.ironcitybham.com
LOU’S PUB & PACKAGE STORE
726 29th St. S., Birmingham 205-322-7005 MATTHEW’S BAR & GRILL
2208 Morris Ave., Birmingham 205-862-6261 NANA FUNKS
708 29th St. S., Birmingham 205-250-8003 www.nana-funks.com OASIS
2807 7th Ave. S., Birmingham 205-323-5538 www.oasisbar.com OLD CAR HEAVEN
3501 1st Avenue South Birmingham, 205-326-8902 www.oldcarheaven.com Closed Sunday-Tuesday 90 | BIRMINGHAM TOURIST GUIDE
ON TAP SPORTS CAFÉ - LAKEVIEW
737 29th St. S., Birmingham 205-320-1225 www.ontapsportscafe.com ONA’S MUSIC ROOM
2801 Second Ave S, Suite C Birmingham, 205-320-7006 www.onasmusicroom.com OUR PLACE
SKKY NIGHT CLUB
1928 11th Ave. S., Birmingham, 205-731-2582 STEEL 1ST AND 23RD
2300 1st Ave. N., Birmingham 205-324-0666 www.steelurbanlounge.com STILLWATER PUB
2115 7th Ave. S., Birmingham 205-715-0077
2109 7th Ave. S., Birmingham 205-202-5625 www.stillwaterpub.com
PALE EDDIE’S POUR HOUSE
THE BREAK RESTAURANT & BILLIARDS
2308 2nd Ave, North, Birmingham 205-297-0052 www.paleeddiespourhouse.com PARKSIDE CAFÉ
1001 20th St. S., Birmingham 205-252-3779 THE COLLINS BAR
4036 5th Ave S., Birmingham 205-595-0920
2125 2nd Ave. N, Suite 100 Birmingham, 205-323-7995 www.collinsbirmingham.com
PLATINUM CLUB
THE H MARTINI BAR
821 2nd Ave. N., Birmingham 205-324-0791, www.platinum-bham.com ROGUE TAVERN
2312 2nd Ave. N., Birmingham 205-202-4151 www.roguetavern.com
1023 20th St. S., Birmingham 205-933-9555, www.thehotelhighland. com/martini_bar.htm THE J. CLYDE
1312 Cobb Lane, Birmingham 205-939-1312, www.jclyde.com
A F T E R DA R K
THE NICK
UPSIDE DOWN PLAZA
THE QUEST
WORKPLAY
2514 10th Ave. S., Birmingham 205-252-3831, www.thenickrocks.com 416 24th St. S., Birmingham 205-251-4313, www.quest-club.com THE RARE MARTINI
2839 7th Ave. S., Birmingham 205-323-0008, www.theraremartini.com THE WINE LOFT
2200 1st Ave. N., Birmingham 205-323-8228 www.wineloftbirmingham.com TIN ROOF
2709 7th Ave. S., Birmingham 205-323-4356, www.tinroofbars.com/ home/birmingham TODD ENGLISH P.U.B.
2221 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd N Birmingham, 205-307-3700 www.toddenglishpub.com TRIM TAB BREWING COMPANY
2721 Fifth Avenue South Birmingham, 828-545-4746 trimtabbrewing.com
PHOTO: BRENT BOYD
2012 Magnolia Ave. S., Birmingham 205-930-0333
CRESTWOOD TAVERN
5500 Crestwood Blvd., Birmingham 205-510-0053 www.crestwoodtavern.com
500 23rd St. S., Birmingham 205-879-4773, www.workplay.com
TENAMPA NIGHTCLUB
WORLD OF BEER
WALKER’S RESTAURANT/THE EMERGENCY ROOM LOUNGE
1005 20th Street S, Birmingham 205-703-7201, www.wob.com ZYDECO
5800 Oporto-Madrid Blvd., Birmingham 205-951-8200
2100 Pinson Valley Pkwy., Birmingham 205-849-0704
2001 15th Ave. S., Birmingham 205-933-1032 www.zydecobirmingham.com
Homewood, Mountain Brook, Inverness
Airport, Centerpoint, Eastwood, Irondale, Leeds
BILLY’S BAR & GRILL
AIRPORT INN TAVERN
3411 Colonnade Parkway, Ste. 800 Birmingham, 205-967-8787 www.evilbartenders.com
7502 5th Ave. N., Birmingham 205-836-9110 BOURBON ST. BAR & LOUNGE
1568 Cooper Hill Rd., Birmingham 205-957-1006
2012 Cahaba Rd., Mountain Brook 205-879-2238 www.billysbarandgrill.com BLACK MARKET BAR
COURTYARD 280 OYSTER BAR & GRILL
4643 Highway 280, Ste. M, Birmingham 205-980-9891
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A F TE R DARK
STIR CRAZY
430 Green Springs Highway, Ste. 10 Homewood, 205-941-3343 SUPERIOR GRILL
4701 Highway 280 S., Birmingham 205-991-5112 THE UPPER DECK SPORTS BAR & GRILL
449 Valley Ave., Homewood 205-942-3289
Hoover, Vestavia BAR 31
1485 Montgomery Hwy, Vestavia 205-824-3555 BILLY'S BAR & GRILL
4520 Overton Rd., Vestavia 205-956-2323, www.billyssportsgrill.com BLACKWELL’S NEIGHBORHOOD PUB
3151 Green Valley Road, Vestavia 205-967-3798 www.blackwellspub.com BUMPERS BILLIARDS
2132 Lorna Ridge Ln. #100, Hoover 205-823-4006 CHARLIE'S TAPHOUSE & CAFÉ
3440 Galleria Circle, Hoover 205-988-3203 www.ontapsportscafe.com COMEDY CLUB STARDOME DRAM WHISKEY BAR
2721 Cahaba Rd., Mountain Brook 205-871-8055 www.dramwhiskeybar.com FOX & HOUND PUB & GRILL
3425 Colonnade Pkwy., Birmingham 205-968-3823 www.fhrg.com/FHRG.aspx JACKSON’S BAR & BISTRO
1831 28th Ave. S., Ste. 175, Homewood 205-870-9669 jacksonsbarandbistro.com/Birmingham MAFIAOZA’S PIZZERIA AND NEIGHBORHOOD PUB
2 Dexter Avenue, Birmingham 205-414-7878, www.mafiaozas.com OAK HILL BAR & GRILL
2835 18th St. S.,Homewood 205-870-8277 92 | BIRMINGHAM TOURIST GUIDE
ON TAP SPORTS CAFÉ- INVERNESS
1818 Data Drive, Hoover 205-444-0008, www.stardome.com
810 Inverness Corners, Birmingham 205-437-1999 www.ontapsportscafe.com
GABRIEL’S SPIRITED CAFÉ
OTEY’S TAVERN
IRON HORSE CAFÉ
SATTERFIELD’S RESTAURANT
MOONLIGHT ON THE MOUNTAIN
224 Country Club Park, Birmingham 205-871-8435 www.oteystavern.com
3706 Lorna Rd, Hoover 205-985-0983
1694 Montgomery Hwy. Ste. 184, Birmingham, 205-978-5599 www.ironhorsecafe.net
3161 Cahaba Heights Rd, #113, Mountain Brook, 205.969-9690 www.satterfieldsrestaurant.com
585 Shades Crest Rd, Birmingham www.moonlightonthemtn.com
SAW’S JUKE JOINT
1115 Dunston Ave., Birmingham 205-745-3920
1845 Montgomery Hwy. Ste. 207, Hoover, 205-988-5558 www.ontapsportscafe.com
STARZ KARAOKE LOUNGE
SHELBY'S
730 Valley Ave., Homewood 205-944-0007
ON TAP SPORTS CAFÉ - RIVERCHASE
9340 Helena Rd, Birmingham 205-403-4071
A F T E R DA R K
TH E GAR AG E C AFÉ
Hidden Gems WE CAN’T KEEP ANYTHING a secret anymore. Garden & Gun magazine has happened upon one of our most treasured watering holes and now the world knows. In a recent edition, the venerable publication named The Garage Café among the “50 Best Southern Bars.” Quoting now from Garden & Gun: “Walk past the shabby facade and gloomy interior and
you’ll discover one of Birmingham’s treasures, a wisteria-covered courtyard filled with concrete tables and an assortment of quirky antiques, the soul of this unassuming Southside haunt. The cash-only bar has no beer on tap, but there’s a generous lineup of bottled brews, plus surprisingly tasty deli sandwiches made to order until 10 p.m.” www.garagecafe.us 8 0 0 . 4 5 8 . 8 0 8 5 | W W W. B I R M I N G H A M . T R AV E L | 9 3
A GUIDE TO BIRMINGHAM OUTDOORS
WHERE TO COMMUNE
With as much or more green space as any urban area in the country, Birmingham is well known for outdoor recreation. Fishing, birding, camping and golfing are all popular activities in the greater Birmingham area. And with dozens of handsome parks around the city, communing with the great outdoors is always just moments away. 94 | BIRMINGHAM TOURIST GUIDE
OUTDOORS
Hiking and Outdoor Enjoyment ALDRIDGE GARDENS Aldridge Gardens, a 30-acre natural garden with a 5-acre lake, beautiful hydrangeas and now features the largest Frank Fleming Collection in the area, an art gallery on site and sculptures throughout the property. Aldridge Gardens is truly Birmingham area’s “best kept secret.” Aldrige Gardens, Nature and Art in Balance. 3530 Lorna Road, Hoover FOR MORE INFORMATION: 205-682-8019 or www.aldridgegardens.com AVONDALE PARK Recent major renovations at Avondale Park led to revitalization in the area with the opening of Avondale Brewery, new restaurants, a pub and a fresh market. The 40-acre park has a 1,000-seat outdoor amphitheater, a large villa for events such as weddings and family reunions and a rose garden. The park also has small lake, baseball fields and other areas that are often in use for sports activities and cultural events. The park lies between 40th and 42nd Streets South and 5th Avenue South and Woodvale Road. FOR MORE INFORMATION: 205- 254-2391
of the preserve and picnic. Please remember to take only pictures and leave only footprints. For more information: 205-444-7866 or www.ci.hoover.al.us GETTING THERE: From I-459 in Birmingham take Exit 10 onto Alabama 150. Turn east toward downtown Hoover. Turn left on Stadium Trace Parkway. Stay straight; this road becomes Sulphur Springs Road. Go about two miles to the intersection with Preserve Parkway. This road leads to Moss Rock Preserve and to parking for the boulder field. OAK MOUNTAIN STATE PARK Alabama’s largest state park offers plenty of trails for hikers who want a peaceful outing apart from the mountain bikers. New park goers might want to try the EagleTrail or Treetop Nature Trail for starters, but those are only two of many. The Peavine Trail, four-anda-half miles round trip, is moderate to difficult, but it’s still a popular hike because of the payoff: It leads to Peavine Falls, which cascade down a rock wall and splash into a pool below.
DORA’S HORSE CREEK TRAIL Constructed along an old railroad bed, this easy three-mile hiking trail runs from T. S. Boyd School to U.S. 78 at the Horse Creek Golf Course. It’s a combination of asphalt with an additional mile of unpaved nature trail. Five rest areas are along the route. GETTING THERE: The school is at 23 Austin Circle. MOSS ROCK PRESERVE This 250-acre preserve has boulders for climbers of all skill levels. It is home to four rare plant species, rock outcroppings, streams, waterfalls and wildlife. The wilderness within the preserve continues to improve as hardwoods grow and age and trails become more defined by continued use. Maps and signs help direct and guide difficulty. For maximum mileage, take the loop made up of the Blue and White Trails, which is a little more than 3 miles long. Or just spread out in the shady coolness 8 0 0 . 4 5 8 . 8 0 8 5 | W W W. B I R M I N G H A M . T R AV E L | 9 5
OUTDOORS
Three suggested hiking loops begin at the North Trailhead. Maggie’s Loop is an easy twoand-a-half-mile walk. North Loop is three-anda-half miles long; it’s rated easy to moderate because of some ascents. Shackelford Loop is rated moderate to difficult because of its sixand-a-half-mile length. Maps for these and other Oak Mountain trails are available at the park office. FOR MORE INFORMATION: 205-620-2524 or www.alapark.com GETTING TO THE FRONT GATE: Take exit 246 off I-65. Turn west onto Alabama 119, left at the first light on State Park Road. Follow one mile to stop sign, and turn left onto John Findley Road through the front gate into the park. GETTING TO THE BACK GATE: Take U.S. 280 to Alabama 119. Follow three miles to left turn at Oak Mountain Public Lake sign. RAILROAD PARK A 21-acre park in downtown Birmingham gives the city a historically rich green space for recreation, concerts and cultural events. Called the Railroad Park, the area is designed to highlight Birmingham’s development at the crossing of two railroad lines. The park runs 96 | BIRMINGHAM TOURIST GUIDE
along a railroad corridor at First Avenue South from 14th to 18th Streets and includes a lake, a natural amphitheater and several playgrounds. Ten acres of open lawn provide a strolling garden landscaped to bloom with various perennials throughout the year. The park is an essential piece of a long-term plan that will give Birmingham the greatest amount of green space per capita of anywhere in the country. RED MOUNTAIN PARK With 1,200 acres, Red Mountain Park is one of the largest urban parks in America. The park has more than 10 miles of trails and a universalaccess zip line canopy tour. The Hugh Kaul Beanstalk Forest is a treetop challenge course with 20 ropes course obstacles, including bridges, tightropes and zip lines. Remy’s Dog Park is designed with three designated fencedin areas, each with ample running space for large, small and special needs dogs. The Kaul Adventure Tower is an 80-foot-tall climbing tower with eight climbing lanes, two rappelling lanes, a 72-foot climbing wall and a mega zip line 1,300 feet long. The entrance to the park is just off Lakeshore Parkway at the end of Frankfurt Drive. www.redmountainpark.org
B R U N O
APRIL 24 - 26 BARBER MOTORSPORTS PARK The Honda Indy Grand Prix of Alabama returns to Barber Motorsports Park, April 24 - 26, 2015. The stars of the Verizon IndyCar Series including defending champion Ryan Hunter-Reay, Will Power, Scott Dixon and more compete for the title. For tickets please visit www.barbermotorsports.com.
MAY 13 -17 SHOAL CREEK Professional golf returns to Shoal Creek as the Regions Tradition, a major championship, tees off May 13 - 17, 2015. Champions Tour favorites Fred Couples, Fred Funk, Bernhard Langer, Colin Montgomerie, Kenny Perry and many more are scheduled to compete. For more details visit www.regionstradition.com.
MAY 19 - 24 THE HOOVER MET The SEC Baseball Tournament is the premier college baseball tournament in the country. The top 12 teams in the SEC will compete for the conference tournament title. The SEC Baseball Tournament draws more than 100,000 fans during the week. The 2015 tournament will be the 18th consecutive year the Alabama Sports Fo Foundation has hosted the event. For tickets go to www.secsports.com.
For more information about our events, visit www.brunoeventteam.com.
OUTDOORS
RUFFNER MOUNTAIN NATURE PRESERVE Eleven miles of nature trails, ranging from easy to arduous, route visitors through this thousand-acre park. Hawk’s View Overlook is a moderate, three-mile, round-trip hike with a challenging incline. Along the way you’ll reach Cambrian Overlook and proceed with a switchback climb to a stunning vista of downtown Birmingham. The new Visitors Center offers lessons in nature and the environment and has exhibits including raptors, turtles and other native Alabama wildlife. The Visitor Center is open Tuesday – Saturday, 9am – 5pm; Sunday, 1pm – 5pm. Hiking trails are open daily, dawn to dusk. Donations welcome. 1214 81st Street South. FOR MORE INFORMATION: 205-833-8264 or www.ruffnermountain.org. GETTING THERE: The center is at 1214 81st St. South in Birmingham’s East Lake area. STEELE’S HORSE PENS 40 Horse Pens 40 is a 120-acre nature park atop 98 | BIRMINGHAM TOURIST GUIDE
Chandler Mountain, and one of the Southeast’s best boulder fields. There’s a warm-up field with relatively easy routes to the top as well as more challenging climbs. Instructions on the rocks tell climbers how to start their ascents. A national bouldering competition held each fall draws hundreds of climbers from around the U.S. FOR MORE INFORMATION: 256-570-0076 or www.hp40.com. GETTING THERE: From I-59 North, take the Ashville exit. Go north on U.S. 231 for about four miles. Watch for signs. For RVs and campers, the easy way is to take I-59 to exit 174. Go north on Steele Station Road. At U.S. 11, take a left. You’ll soon see a sign at St. Clair 42. Take a right and go to the top of Chandler Mountain. After this road turns left, follow it for three miles to the entrance; look for signs. VULCAN TRAIL At slightly more than a mile in length, the Vulcan Trail is a gem carved from the rough
OUTDOORS stone of what was once part of the old L&N Birmingham Mineral Railroad. Located off Richard Arrington, Jr. Boulevard, at the base of Vulcan Park and Museum, the trail offers a quiet stroll along a shaded path and fantastic views of the city skyline below. In 2003, a volunteer group of citizens formed “Friends of Vulcan Trail” to work to make the experience of visiting the trail a highlight for all who walk it. FOR MORE INFORMATION: Call 205-254-2699 or visit www.informationbirmingham.com/parksrecreation.aspx
Fishing
places to rent canoes: ALABAMA OUTDOORS – HOMEWOOD STORE
205-870-1919, Pelham store 205-403-9191. ALABAMA SMALL BOATS – 205-424-3634. LIMESTONE CANOE RENTAL – 205-926-9672. LAKE PURDY This 1,050-acre lake is a quick trip from Birmingham. Some anglers consider it to be one of the best crappie-fishing lakes in the state. The Lake Purdy Fishing Marina is open seven days a week from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., except on Christmas and Thanksgiving, and sells bait, tackle, drinks and snacks, and rents flat-bottom johnboats, canoes and pontoon boats, with life jackets and paddles.
Birmingham was recently voted “Bass Capital of the World” by BASSMASTERS magazine, so you’re in a prime place to have a rod and reel. The state’s lakes offer up everything from largemouth and spotted bass, to saltwater stripes, crappie, catfish and bream. Bring your bait and tackle to these close-by lakes and rivers: ALABAMA LAUNCHES BASS TRAIL The state’s wily bass will want to avoid the “hot spots” since the opening of the Alabama Bass Trail. The statewide tourism initiative includes 11 premier bass-fishing lakes, several in the greater Birmingham area, and stretches from North Alabama through the central plains to the Mobile Delta. A new website provides details anglers need to plan their fishing trips and includes the latest tips from professionals and guides, along with lake maps with hot spots marked and info on what’s biting and where to stay. FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.alabamabasstrail.org CAHABA RIVER This 191-mile free-flowing river is an ecological treasure and home to 135 fish species, including several which are rare and protected such as the Cahaba shiner and the gold-line darter. Cahaba River Society is a non-profit organization working to preserve this treasured waterway. Guided tours are offered. 205-3225326 or www.cahabariversociety.org Bank fishing or canoe casting are good routes to finding fish. Here are a couple of
Fishing License Info Alabama fresh water and salt water fishing licenses can be ordered by phone by calling 888-848-6887 or by Internet at www.outdooralabama.com. Licenses also can be purchased at most bait and tackle shops. Short term, annual and lifetime fishing licenses are available for both fresh water and salt water fishing in Alabama.
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OUTDOORS
Singletracks and Switchbacks OFF ROAD: Some writers who ride go so far as to compare Oak Mountain State Park with Whistler and Moab. We admit that may be a stretch, but it has become a riding destination that’s growing in reputation among serious mountain bikers. The park is about 20 miles south of Birmingham and covers more than 10,000 acres. www.alapark.com/oakmountain/mountainbiketrails, 205-620-2520 Red Mountain Park recently opened more than 10 miles of trails in what is one of the largest urban parks in America. With seven visitor destinations, this is also one of the most ambitious and historically important new park projects in the country. Take a break from biking and glide through the treetops on the Red Ore Zip Tour Zip Line. www.redmountainpark.org, 205-202-6043 At Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park, bikers find another historical treasure in their surroundings. The ironworks here gave birth to the iron and steel industry in Birmingham during its early days. Park trails, many of them following the original routes of ore miners and furnace workers, cut through some of the most scenic areas of the Tannehill reserve. www.tannehill.org, 205-477-5711 PAVED TRAILS: The Shades Creek Greenway Trail runs alongside Shades Creek in the Birmingham suburb of Homewood. The six-mile trail is primarily level and recommended for beginning bikers. Bike riders
share the trail with pedestrian traffic. www.homewoodchamber.org/page/81557/ greenway-walking-trail 205-871-5631 Railroad Park is the award-winning, 19-acre downtown green space that invites beginning bikers, walkers, runners, dog owners and skateboarders to share the great outdoors. www.railroadpark.org, 205-521-9933 Though downtown Birmingham is surrounded by the foothills of the Appalachians, the streets are relatively level for leisurely biking. Bike riding is one of the best ways to learn about the city and to tour the historic neighborhoods. For more challenging biking, take a detour up Red Mountain and ride up to Vulcan Park and Museum, overlooking the city. For more trail and route suggestions, contact the Birmingham Urban Mountain Pedalers (BUMP) at www.bump.org, 800-960-9457.
“Some of the three most beautiful words that describe trails are ‘open all season.’ Throughout Alabama, many trails can be ridden as easily in December as July. What many say is the best of all these trails is at Oak Mountain State Park…. Get ready for 17 miles of sweet singletrack, sharp switchbacks and some killer technical sections. But the coolest thing about this trail is its culverts. You can catch some serious air on these concrete and flagstone culverts…. Be sure to find the culvert called ‘Number 3.’ A team of bike friendly engineers must have designed the culvert to perfectly hurl bikes through the Alabama sky.” —MOUNTAIN BIKE MAGAZINE
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PHOTO: JEFFREY GREENBERG
OUTDOORS
GETTING THERE: From U.S. 280 east, turn left on Alabama 119. Travel four miles and turn left on Boat Launch Road. Follow to the Lake Purdy Fishing Marine.
LAY LAKE This 12,000-acre lake, a short drive south of Birmingham, sports lots of open water and slews where you can cast a line. And fishing below Logan Martin Dam at the upper end of the lake often yields a good catch. Check www.adph.org for Lay Lake fish consumptions advisories. GETTING THERE: Take U.S. 280 East to Harpersville and turn right at the traffic light onto Alabama 25. Follow to Columbiana and ask for directions.
GETTING THERE: Logan Martin measures almost 50 miles long and winds between St. Clair and Talladega Counties about 30 miles east of Birmingham off I-20 East. There’s a marina and boat launch at the Riverside/Pell City Exit 162.
OAK MOUNTAIN STATE PARK Two 85-acre stocked lakes are fertilized and open year-round, and the park rents johnboats and flat-bottom fishing boats with paddles and life preservers. Anglers with their own boats
LOGAN MARTIN LAKE This 15,000-plus-acre lake east of Birmingham in the Coosa River chain offers up an abundance of fish along the banks, in the open water, and in the headwaters below Neely Henry Dam, especially when the turbines are running. Check www.adph.org for Logan Martin Lake fish consumptions advisories. PHOTO: (TOP) ARIK SOKOL; (BOTTOM) F. LEUNG
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OUTDOORS
can use the park’s launches and their own electric trolling motors. The Fishing Center Store just inside the back gate and the Campground Country Store sell bait, tackle, drinks and snacks. FOR MORE INFORMATION: Fishing Center Store 205- 620-2528 or Campground Store 205-620-2527.
Canoeing and Kayaking CAHABA RIVER Alabama’s longest river is a great place to canoe or kayak. Just remember along the way that you’re sharing space with several rare and protected fish and the imperiled Cahaba Lily which once thrived across the southeast. Floating down the Cahaba’s gentle waters provides a pleasant respite and a close-up look at some of the interesting species. If you’re looking to make a bigger splash, head to the river’s northernmost portions for some Level I-III whitewater rapids. Because shallower waters mark the Cahaba’s steep banks and rocky shoals, it’s best to go canoeing after a heavy rain. The Cahaba River Society hosts canoe trips down the river, including day trips, moonlight trips and overnight canoeing. Among the most popular outings are the Lily Trips, which run 102 | BIRMINGHAM TOURIST GUIDE
when the rare and endangered Cahaba Lily is in bloom, from mid-May to mid-June. All trips are free if you bring your own canoe, and reservations are required. FOR MORE INFORMATION: Cahaba River Society, 205-322-5326 or www.cahabariversociety.org. For boat rentals: Alabama Small Boats, 205-424-3634. LOCUST FORK Just a short drive from Birmingham, Locust Fork is on the Black Warrior River. This is an excellent whitewater run with some very difficult rapids known as Double Trouble and House Rock. Beginners will do best to avoid these rapids. Beautiful limestone bluffs accent the rapids. The National Park Service places Locust Fork in the top two percent of rivers in the country for its recreational value, among other assets. GETTING THERE: Take I-59 North to Tallapoosa Street Exit (Tarrant). Take Alabama Hwy. 79 North through Cleveland (about 40 minutes). Follow signs to Blountsville and cross the bridge over the Locust Fork River. Just past the bridge on the right is King’s Bend. Turn into King’s Bend and follow the gravel road through the gate. FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.flfr.org (Friends of Locust Fork River) PHOTO: ARIK SOKOL
OUTDOORS
Who Let the Birds Out?
In the Birmingham area, birding’s a big deal. RUFFNER MOUNTAIN – This huge urban park
covers more than 1,000 acres and is just minutes from downtown Birmingham. Interesting breeding birds along the hiking trails in the summer include Kentucky and Hooded Warblers, Red-eyed and Yellow-throated Vireos, Summer Tanagers, Wood Thrushes, Red-headed, Hairy and Pileated Woodpeckers. Winter months bring Juncos, Winter Wrens and Sapsuckers. Spring through fall, look for Indigo Buntings, White-eyed Vireos and Common Yellowthroats. And that’s only scratching the surface. EAST LAKE PARK – This 45-acre lake attracts waterfowl from late November through February. Wood Ducks, Night Herons and Great Blue Herons are present year-round. Winter brings feeding flocks led by Yellow-rumped Warblers, Ruby-crowned Kinglets and Yellowbellied Sapsuckers. Migrant songbirds appear in the spring and fall. BIRMINGHAM BOTANICAL GARDENS AND BIRMINGHAM ZOO – Located just across the
street from one another, the gardens and the zoo are two of the most visited sites for songbirds in the Birmingham area. In the gardens, concentrate on the more natural northern end of the park, especially the Bog Garden and the Fern Glade.
TURKEY CREEK NATURE PRESERVE – Abundant water and vegetation make this an excellent site for songbirds and raptors. The park teems with flycatchers of all sorts, warblers, vireos, tanagers and more. A special note of interest: Turkey Creek is home to the endangered Rush and Vermilion Darter species of fish, which live nowhere else in the world. THE UPPER CAHABA RIVER REGION – In this birding-rich region, some birds can be found throughout the year while others are migratory. Each visit is a new experience in finding Barred Owls, Scarlet Tanagers, Indigo Buntings and Orchard Orioles. Also spotted in the area are Swainson’s Warblers, Red-shouldered Hawks, Wild Turkeys and Wood Ducks. Birders flock to the area to see Worm-eating Warblers, Belted Kingfishers, Green Herons, Eastern Bluebirds and American Goldfinches.
To learn more about birding in the greater Birmingham area, visit the Alabama Birding Trails website at www.alabamabirdingtrails. com/counties/jefferson, or request a Birds of the Upper Cahaba brochure at www. birmingham.travel or call 800-458-8085.
LAKE PURDY – Birmingham’s source of drinking water, this lake is one of those rare birding destinations that can present any of several different habitats depending on water levels and seasons. TANNEHILL IRONWORKS HISTORICAL STATE PARK – Hiking and birding are major activities
at the birthplace of Birmingham’s iron and steel industry. Though summer months can be crowded and active, at quieter times look for woodland songbirds, Louisiana Waterthrushes and Brown-headed Nuthatches.
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A GUIDE TO BIRMINGHAM GOLF
WHERE TO TEE OFF
With as much or more green space as any urban area in the country, Birmingham is well known for outdoor recreation. Fishing, birding, camping and golfing are all popular activities in the greater Birmingham area. And with dozens of handsome parks around the city, communing with the great outdoors is always just moments away. 104 | BIRMINGHAM TOURIST GUIDE
Alpine Bay Golf
9855 Renfroe Road, Alpine, AL 35014; 256-268-2920 Located within the forests adjacent to Lake Logan Martin, this course features a contemporary clubhouse, lodge and restaurant as well as stunning scenery. NO. OF HOLES: 18, PAR: 72, YARDAGE: 6,518 RATING/SLOPE: 69.9/126, PRACTICE RANGE: yes
Ballantrae Golf Club
1300 Ballantrae Club Drive, Pelham, AL 35124; 205-620-4653 Because not everybody can travel to Scotland to play golf, now there is Ballantrae. NO. OF HOLES: 18, PAR: 72, YARDAGE: 7,310 RATING/SLOPE: 74.5/130, PRACTICE RANGE: yes
Bent Brook Golf Course
7900 Dickey Springs Road, Bessemer, AL 35022; 205-424-2368 or www.bentbrook.com Once a dairy farm, this beautiful course is located approximately 15-20 miles from downtown Birmingham. On-site restaurant. All major credit cards accepted. NO. OF HOLES: 27, PAR: 36-36-35, PHOTO: TED TUCKER
YARDAGE: 6,000-7,000, RATING/SLOPE: 69.6/117, 70.2/121, 69.2/116, PRACTICE RANGE: yes
Capstone Club of Alabama
16000 Capstone Blvd., Brookwood, AL 35444; 205-462-0590 Located in Brookwood, Capstone is in between Birmingham and Tuscaloosa. Ranked third in the State of Alabama by Golfweek magazine, Capstone Club is a must play. NO. OF HOLES: 18
Castle Pines Country Club, LLC
1600 Quail Ridge Drive, Birmingham, AL 35071; 205-631-3140 Located in Gardendale, approximately 10 miles north of downtown Birmingham. NO. OF HOLES: 18, PAR: 72, YARDAGE: 6,439 RATING/SLOPE: 70.6/124, PRACTICE RANGE: yes
Cedar Creek Golf Course
900 Cedar Creek Drive, Bessemer, AL 35023; 205-424-8450 An 18-hole course with large Bermuda greens located only 20 minutes from Birmingham. Tee times required for weekends only. Visa and 8 0 0 . 4 5 8 . 8 0 8 5 | W W W. B I R M I N G H A M . T R AV E L | 1 0 5
MasterCard are welcome. NO. OF HOLES: 18, PAR: 72, YARDAGE: 6,004 RATING/SLOPE: 67.9/114, PRACTICE RANGE: yes
Cumberland Lake Golf & Country Club 2150 Cumberland Lake Drive, Pinson, AL 35126; 205-680-4653 or 680-4650 This is a scenic course with lake and mountain views. It receives high marks for course variety. NO. OF HOLES: 18, PAR: 72, YARDAGE: 6,655/6,422 RATING/SLOPE: 70.7/126, 69.1/123, 70.7/117 PRACTICE RANGE: yes
located 15 miles from downtown Birmingham. Tee times can be made five days in advance. NO. OF HOLES: 18, PAR: 71, YARDAGE: 6,493, RATING/SLOPE: 70.1/119, PRACTICE RANGE: yes
FarmLinks Golf Club
8920 Roebuck Blvd., Roebuck, AL 35206; 205-836-7318 This city park course, located only 10 miles from downtown Birmingham, is not only a challenging course, but also one of the city’s best bargains. No credit cards accepted. NO. OF HOLES: 18, PAR: 71,YARDAGE: 6,509, RATING/SLOPE: 68.5/137, PRACTICE RANGE: no
2200 FarmLinks Blvd., Sylacauga, AL 35150; 205-403-4653 or www.farmlinksgolfclub.com FarmLinks is the world’s first research and demonstration course. The Hurdzan-Fry design offers a diverse layout with dramatic elevation changes and striking views of the mountains and lakes. Now you can Stay and Play in the Lodges at FarmLinks. Golfweek named FarmLinks in the top five public-access courses in Alabama. Tee times may be made up to 30 days in advance. American Express, Visa and MasterCard are accepted. Groups and outings welcome. Ask about our new Lodges and Stay and Play rates. Managed by Honours Golf. NO. OF HOLES: 18, PAR: 72, YARDAGE: 7,444 RATING/SLOPE: 73/134, PRACTICE RANGE: yes OVERNIGHT ACCOMMODATIONS: yes
Eagle Point Golf Club
Frank House Municipal Golf Course
Don A. Hawkins/Roebuck Municipal Golf Course
4500 Eagle Point Drive, Birmingham, AL 35242; 205-991-9070 or www.eaglepointgolfclub.com This course, created by architect Earl Stone, is 106 | BIRMINGHAM TOURIST GUIDE
801 Golf Course Road, Bessemer, AL 35022; 205-424-9540 An economical course located 15 miles from
downtown Birmingham. All major credit cards are accepted. NO. OF HOLES: 18, PAR: 72, YARDAGE: 6,346-4,926 RATING/SLOPE: 60/119, PRACTICE RANGE: no
Highland Park Golf Course
3300 Highland Ave. South, Birmingham, AL 35205; 205-322-1902 or www.highlandparkgolf.com Known as the oldest course in Alabama, Highland Park still sparkles from the 1998 restoration by renowned architect, Bob Cupp. It offers 18 enticing holes with uphill approach shots, heavily bunkered greens, lakes and beautiful vistas of the Birmingham skyline. Practice Range on-site. Tee times may be made up to five days in advance. American Express, Visa and MasterCard are accepted. Groups and outings welcome. Managed by Honours Golf. NO. OF HOLES: 18, Par: 70, YARDAGE: 5,801 RATING/SLOPE: 68.1/128, 66.1/123, 63.8/114 PRACTICE RANGE: yes
Horse Creek Golf Course
1745 Highway 78, Dora, AL 35062; 205-648-1499 A beautiful, newer course whose diverse landscapes make for quite a challenging day on the links. Located about 23 miles from
downtown Birmingham. Tee times can be made three days in advance. American Express, MasterCard and Visa are welcome. NO. OF HOLES: 18, PAR: 72, YARDAGE: 6,552, RATING/SLOPE: 71.1/124, PRACTICE RANGE: yes
Limestone Springs Golf Course
3000 Colonial Drive, Oneonta, AL 35121; 205-274-4653 Located northeast of Birmingham in Oneonta, this Jerry Pate design stretches almost 7,000 yards throughout the Appalachian Mountains with strategically placed bunkers and numerous lakes. Rated number 64 in “America’s Greatest Public Golf Courses” by Golf Digest, it offers some of the most dramatic elevations and picturesque views in Alabama. Tee times may be made up to 7 days in advance. American Express, Visa and MasterCard are accepted. Groups and outings welcome. Golf cottage sleeps 8, and is available for rental. Managed by Honours Golf. NO. OF HOLES: 18, PAR: 72, YARDAGE: 6,987 RATING/SLOPE: 74/139, PRACTICE RANGE: yes
Magnolia Meadows Golf Course
315 Hwy 47 South, Columbiana, AL 35051; 205-670-0031 or www.magnoliameadows.com Magnolia Meadows Golf Course is an executive 8 0 0 . 4 5 8 . 8 0 8 5 | W W W. B I R M I N G H A M . T R AV E L | 1 0 7
length full-service 18-hole course playing at an inflated par 68 over an executive distance of 3,625 yards. With narrow fairways, exceptional placement of water and sand hazards, you can expect a fun and challenging day of golf for golfers of all ages and skill levels.
Marcum Country Club
9621 Bagley Road, Empire, AL 35063; 205-647-3377 The very picture of serenity, this older, countryside course–located 25 miles from downtown Birmingham—incorporates several bodies of water in its design to provide a challenging, yet relaxing, game of golf. No tee times required. Visa and MasterCard are welcome. NO. OF HOLES: 18, PAR: 71, YARDAGE: 5,800 RATING/SLOPE: 70/113, PRACTICE RANGE: no
The Meadows Golf Course
#1 Plantation Drive, Harpersville, AL 35078; 205-672-7529 Open course featuring Bermuda greens and fairways about 25 miles from downtown Birmingham. NO. OF HOLES: 18, PAR: 72, YARDAGE: 6,823 RATING/SLOPE: 71.6/122, PRACTICE RANGE: yes
Mountain View Golf Course
3200 Mountain View Drive Graysville, AL 35073; 205-674-8362 This course-–and its commanding view–is located only 20 miles from downtown Birmingham. Tee times are required. Visa,
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MasterCard and Discover are accepted. NO. OF HOLES: 27, PAR: 71, 72, YARDAGE: 5,946 RATING/SLOPE: 67.5/111, 68.4/114, 69.3/114 PRACTICE RANGE: no
Oak Mountain Golf Course
Oak Mountain State Park Road Pelham, AL 35137; 205-620-2522 Located 17 miles south of downtown Birmingham in Oak Mountain State Park. Pre-noon tee times must be made five days in advance. American Express, Visa and MasterCard are welcome. NO. OF HOLES: 18, PAR: 72, YARDAGE: 6,748-5,615, RATING/SLOPE: 71.5 / 127, 69.8 / 124, 66.7 / 117, PRACTICE RANGE: yes
Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa
4000 Grand Avenue, Birmingham, AL 35226; 205-949-3085, 800-949-4444 or www.rtjgolf.com A big, muscle-bound course, its 18 holes sprawling over 330 acres and stretching almost 8,200 yards from the back tees, Ross Bridge is big and brawny, yet inviting to golfers of all skill levels. Perfect for everyone from the casual golfer to the tournament player, it promises to be the premier course on the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. The Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort and Spa on the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, opened in August 2005, is home to an incredible 12,000-square-foot full-service spa and salon.
NO. OF HOLES: 18, PAR: 72, YARDAGE: 8,191 RATING/SLOPE: 78.5/135, PRACTICE RANGE: yes
Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail Oxmoor Valley
100 Sunbelt Parkway, Birmingham, AL 35211; 205-942-1177 or 800-949-4444 www.rtjgolf.com/courses/oxmoor_valley/ One of nine state-spanning courses designed by Robert Trent Jones, the Oxmoor Valley course offers three sets of links to challenge the golfer on the go, as well as the putter with time on his hands. ROBERT TRENT JONES – OXMOOR VALLEY SHORT COURSE NO. OF HOLES: 18, PAR: 54, YARDAGE: 3,360, RATING/SLOPE: n/a, PRACTICE RANGE: yes
Tee time policies and green fees vary throughout the year, so be sure to call ahead. ROBERT TRENT JONES – OXMOOR VALLEY RIDGE COURSE NO. OF HOLES: 18, PAR: 72, YARDAGE: 7,055-4,974 RATING/SLOPE: 72/136, PRACTICE RANGE: yes
Tee time policies and green fees vary
PHOTO: MICHAEL CLEMMER/GOLFCOURSEPHOTOGRAPHER.US
throughout the year, so be sure to call ahead. ROBERT TRENT JONES – OXMOOR VALLEY VALLEY COURSE NO. OF HOLES: 18, PAR: 72, YARDAGE: 7,055-4,974 RATING/SLOPE: 71/129, PRACTICE RANGE: yes
Tee time policies and green fees vary throughout the year, so be sure to call ahead.
Timberline Golf Club
300 Timberline Trail, Calera, AL 35040; 205-668-7888 or www.timberlinegc.com A beautiful course located 30 miles south of Birmingham. Tee times can be made up to seven days in advance. NO. OF HOLES: 18, PAR: 72, YARDAGE: 6,773, RATING/SLOPE: 72.3/126, PRACTICE RANGE: yes
Trussville Country Club
7905 Roper Road, Trussville, AL 35173; 205.655.2095 or www.trussvillecountryclub.com This is a beautiful sculpted and challenging Par 71 course surrounded by the Cahaba River. NO. OF HOLES: 18, PAR: 71, YARDAGE: 6,024 RATING/SLOPE: 67.9/116, 66.9/113, 70.3/119 8 0 0 . 4 5 8 . 8 0 8 5 | W W W. B I R M I N G H A M . T R AV E L | 1 0 9
S P ECIAL EVENTS
Special Events 2015-2016 BIRMINGHAM IS FORTUNATE to have a full year-round calendar of major events. Space prohibits the entire list, so here is just a small sample of the event entertainment the city has for visitors: • BIRMINGHAM ARTWALK – This fall festival transforms blocks of downtown Birmingham into an arts district, featuring the work of more than 100 visual artists, street performers and musicians. birminghamartwalk.org • DIA DE LOS MUERTOS-ALABAMA – Dress as a skeleton, a sugar skull or for a fiesta at this Day of the Dead festival each November. Join the procession and enjoy the food, music and remembrance. barehandsinc.org 110 | BIRMINGHAM TOURIST GUIDE
• HONDA INDY GRAND PRIX OF ALABAMA – The annual IndyCar Series in April is run at the beautiful Barber Motorsports Park, a 16-turn, 2.3 mile road course in a venue that accommodates 100,000 spectators. barbermotorsports.com • MAGIC CITY ART CONNECTION – This annual arts weekend is in April and features topnotch artists and craftsmen from around the country. It includes good food, craft beer and an art workshop for children. magiccityart.com • MAGIC CITY CLASSIC – “The Classic,” as it is known, is a long-standing football rivalry between Alabama A&M and Alabama State universities. Played in October, the full weekend
S P E CIA L E V E N TS
of events includes a not-to-be-missed parade downtown. themagiccityclassic.com • MERCEDES-BENZ MARATHON WEEKEND – Headed into its 15th year, the weekend of events culminates with the internationally competitive run and has become a Birmingham tradition. Read the sweet backstory of how the February event came to be at mercedesmarathon.com. • NATIONAL VETERANS DAY – Birmingham is home of America’s first Veterans Day that began with a parade led by founder Raymond Weeks in 1947. The November celebration still includes a spectacular parade along with other events. nationalveteransday.org • REGIONS TRADITION PGA TOURNAMENT – Played in May, this Senior PGA event takes place at beautiful Shoal Creek Golf Club. Jack Nicklaus designed the course where a $2.2 million purse is at stake in the 72-hole competition. regionstradition.com • SIDEWALK FILM FESTIVAL – USA TODAY calls Sidewalk one of “Ten Great Places for a Fabulous Film Festival.” Since its debut in 1999, the festival has attracted filmmakers from around the world to screen their work for enthusiastic crowds of independent cinema fans. The event takes place in August in Birmingham’s historic Theater District. sidewalkfest.com
• SOUTHEASTERN CONFERENCE BASEBALL TOURNAMENT – First held in 1977, this May event takes place at the Hoover Metropolitan Stadium. It’s a playoff among 12 of the 14 SEC teams that qualify. The SEC is one of the nation’s elite baseball conferences. secsports.go.com • THUNDER ON THE MOUNTAIN – For decades, this Fourth of July tradition has been hailed as one of the largest and most extravagant fireworks celebrations in the region. The show is choreographed at the towering statue of Vulcan on Red Mountain. visitvulcan.com
SLOSS MUSIC & ARTS FESTIVAL The Sloss Music & Arts Festival (July 18-19, 2015) is a twoday music and lifestyle event taking place at Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark. This event brings more than 32 bands on three stages and highlights the booming local craft beer and specialty cocktail scene. On-site dining spotlights local restaurants and food trucks for a genuine “taste of Birmingham.” slossfest.com The Sloss Music & Arts Festival is produced by Red Mountain Entertainment, AC Entertainment and Venue Management, Inc.
See a complete calendar of events at inbirmingham.com.
PHOTO: (TOP) COURTESY VULCAN PARK & MUSEUM
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TOURIST INFORMATION PUBLIC PARKING
The information in this guide has been published in good faith on the basis of information supplied to the Bureau and its agents. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of all information contained in this guide at the time of publishing, the Bureau and its agents cannot guarantee its accuracy and accepts no responsibility for any error, omission or misrepresentation.
Welcome to the new BHM.
At the Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport, we offer more than 100 daily flights to your favorite destinations—but we believe our job is much more than just the facilitation of travel. It’s about creating an inviting experience along the way. In addition to the modern architecture, you’ll find a host of amenities, from free wi-fi and new charging stations to brand new food and drink options. So no matter where you’re going from here, we hope you enjoy every moment you’re with us. BIRMINGHAM-SHUTTLESWORTH I N T E R N AT I O N A L A I R P O R T