EXCURSIONS Birmingham 7th Edition by EXCURSIONS BY CITYVISION

L i v e a nd d i n e w i t h o u t r e g r e t. C o LLe C t me m o r i e s , n o t t h i n g s . s av o r B i r mi ng h a m o n e Bi t e at a t i m e .

2300 Woodcrest Place at the embassy suites birmingham 205.879.9995 For menus & additional information, visit RuthsChris.net

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR & PUBLISHER

THE BIRMINGHAM AREA CONTINUES TO DRAW VISITORS FROM all over the world. Just

recently, Birmingham was tapped to host the 2021 World Games, welcomed Uber and continues to be home to one of the most diverse and critically-acclaimed culinary communities in the world. Birmingham entrepreneurs and small business owners are thriving and opening here almost daily. A recent change in our state laws has expanded the opportunity for the production of liquors, so, just like our booming craft beer makers, you may enjoy the unique local takes on your favorite spirits. Our restaurant community continues to grow and thrive with many more slated to open in 2017. Birmingham Restaurant Week now occurs in the Summer and Winter of each year, encouraging visitors and locals to get out and

try something new and to support their favorites. Sidewalk Film Festival occurs in August of each year in Birmingham’s theater district and brings more than 13,000 filmmakers and film lovers from all over the world. This three-day festival offers a platform for young, aspiring filmmakers as well as seasoned professionals to display their craft and reveal their passions. Make plans to attend August 25-27, 2017. The Rotary Club of Birmingham (the oldest in the nation) marked their centennial anniversary by making an extraordinary gift to the City of Birmingham and her residents—a newly renovated park downtown adorned with an new sign that harkens back to the past yet points toward the future. Be sure to read Jenny Adams’ article about the new trail and sign. My sincerest appreciation goes to the many advertisers who believe in the power and reach of this publication. I strongly encourage you to assist me in thanking them by visiting their places of business and letting them know that EXCURSIONS led you to their doors. In case you haven’t noticed, I love this city. I’ve been here most of life and I’m proud to be one of its many ambassadors. EXCURSIONSGO.com is our mobile website for this publication. Take advantage of the new EXCURSIONS mobile profile pages we created for each of our advertisers. It puts all pertinent information at your fingertips and provides up-to-date information by displaying their current Facebook posts and more. Safe travels and frequent returns,

Brent Boyd @bb_shoots

EDITOR/PUBLISHER

Brent Boyd brent@cityvision.tv

ASSISTANT TO EDITOR

Myra Sawyer

COPY EDITOR

Rachel Davis

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Heather Adams Jenny Adams Rachel Davis

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Brent Boyd David R. Donaldson Padraic Major Andi Rice Benjamin N. Smith CONTRIBUTING GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Kara Brown

excursionsbycityvision

@cityvisioninc

EXCURSIONS is a registered trademark and is published by CityVision, Inc. 4415 3rd Ave. S, Birmingham, AL 35222; 205.595.0809; cityvision.tv Copyright 2017-18 by CityVision, Inc. All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be reprinted without express written permission of CityVision, Inc. For information on display rates or media kits, please email office@cityvision.tv or visit our website at cityvision.tv. Please leave this copy of EXCURSIONS in this room for the next reader to enjoy. Copies of this book may be purchased for $20 plus shipping and handling by contacting the publisher at 205.595.0809. A limited number of back issues are also available for purchase. See our website for publication archives.

DESTINATIONS

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CONTENTS

36 Beauty & Wellness

10 Getting Your Bearings

38 Main Attractions

12 Visit the City of Bessemer

48 Performing Arts

Birmingham’s newest urban park and walking trail.

Maps showing where all major cities, neighborhoods, entertinment districts and major landmarks are located.

You’re invited to shop, dine, play, stay and live in this growing city!

14 Entertainment Districts

Birmingham’s historic neighborhoods provide a stunning backdrop for modern entertainment.

32 Get Ready, Get Set, Shop!

This town offers shoppers a run for their money.

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Take some time while you are here to pamper yourself.

The Birmingham Metro area offers a broad range of attractions worth getting out of your hotel room.

No longer an industrial giant, Birmingham’s new “magic” is in the thriving arts community.

52 Love at First Bite

Birmingham’s culinary hot spots are sure to delight.

72 Birmingham Nightlife

From cocktails, karaoke and vape lounges to live music, craft beer and late night dancing, you’ll find your perfect spot.

80 Annual Events

From art exhibits, parades, music festivals and football to bass fishing, NASCAR and motocross, Birmingham has something for adults and children alike every month of the year.

ON THE COVER

Birmingham’s new Rotary Trail and sign gifted to the citizens of Birmingham by The Rotary Club of Birmingham

THIS PAGE

Sloss Furnace’s resident artists prepare molten steel for unique works of art.

Photography by Brent Boyd

PHOTO:

6 The Rotary Trail and Sign

The Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum Exquisitely AWESOME Housed in one spectacularly beautiful place, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll see some of the rarest, most artistic, and most desirable machines ever created. Motorcycles, cars, art, and moreâ&#x20AC;Ś www.barbermuseum.org 6030 Barber Motorsports Parkway | Birmingham, Alabama 35094 | 205.699.7275

(Opposite) Rotary Club President Fred McCallum and Mayor William Bell lead the ribbon cutting ceremony. Photograph by Dee Moore

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A LEGEND LIGHTS UP AGAIN THE ROTARY TRAIL AND THE NEW SIGN by JENNY ADAMS

f you were to go back in time to 1926, you’d find a lot of excitement in downtown Birmingham on Fifth Avenue near the Terminal Station. It was this year that the city welcomed an icon – a metal sign that, via electric lights, announced: Welcome to Birmingham, The Magic City.” It was a donation from a local businessman named E.M. Elliott, and this massive, four-story sign was a sight to behold for locals and for visitors alighting from trains into the city. The sign was changed to simply read, “Birmingham, The Magic City,” in 1930, and it remained a symbol downtown until lack of upkeep, rust and decay caused the city to tear it down in the 1950s. An effort to save the sign was unsuccessful, and it was scrapped. This wonderful piece of Birmingham’s history has now been revived in spirit and replaced in physical, nearly identical measure. The 46-foot replica exists where the original stood for nearly three

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decades. The sign also marks an entryway to the brand new Rotary Trail, a new part of the city’s existing Railroad Park that runs through downtown. The new Rotary Trail stretches along First Avenue South, from 20th Street to 24th, and both the sign and trail were undertaken and completed by the Downtown Rotary Club, with Bill Jones as the chair and Cheryl Morgan as the co-chair. “We were looking for a way to mark our centennial anniversary,” offers Morgan, who’s also a professor and director of Auburn University’s Urban studio. “We had 11 projects recommended to us, but when we realized that this blighted space in downtown really needed a champion, the decision was set.” The group raised $3.5 million, and while they didn’t make the exact date of their Centennial, they hosted a ribbon cutting in April of 2016 to announce and welcome the trail and the sign. What was formerly unused and unsightly land was transformed EXCURSIONS 7

“WE WERE LOOKING FOR A WAY TO MARK OUR CENTENNIAL ANNIVERSARY.”

— CHERYL MORGAN

into beautiful green space and a walking/ biking trail, filled with plants, flowers, sculpted earth and custom, Poulsen lighting. “When Railroad Park opened in 2008, it was immediately embraced,” continues Morgan. “Originally, Birmingham was founded as a city of industry, not of enterprise. There was a lot of industrial land use downtown that never belonged to anyone. The Rotary Trail and Railroad Park represent space in the city’s center that are now not only beautiful, but also something for everyone.” A brick hardscape surrounds the sign, which is made from materials donated by 8 EXCURSIONS

club members. At night, against a blue sky, the white letters shine, announcing, “Rotary Trail in the Magic City.” Beyond that, you enter a corridor filled with native species of plants, sleek picnic tables and benches, LED lighting and numerous places to simply enjoy the day. “The railings were an important component,” says Morgan of the transformation. “These four blocks were called The Cut, because if you tried to walk them, and you entered at 20th Street, you had to walk all the way to 24th Street to get out. It was important that there be a way to move up or down into the trail at each of the four street intersections. We built stairs and ramps at each intersection and at the 23rd Street access, the trail comes up to the street itself.” There are also four solar-powered charging towers for juicing up any electronics and on a sunny day, you might easily spot a local Garden Club hosting a tour, meet kids on bicycles, or hear a university professor giving an outdoor lecture here. “There is so much evidence that the project has done what we’ve wanted it to do,” says Morgan. “The iconic sign certainly became the wow factor, but in

terms of changing the landscape, it’s not merely that this trail has added green space. It’s also drawn new businesses into the area. Glory Bound, which is a gyro restaurant, was one of the first to come in and they have really anchored the space and been very community minded. There’s now a Publix grocery store opening further down in a few months and the third highest-used Zyp Bike Share station in the city is the one at Rotary Trail.” The community of Birmingham owes a lot to the Rotary Club of Birmingham, which actually owns the distinction as being the largest Rotary Club in the world. “Birmingham is very civic-minded,” says Morgan. “I think for 2017 and beyond, what the Rotary Club has been talking most about is maintaining a leadership role and encouraging this new potential for connectivity. People want to walk from the Rotary Trail all the way up to 32nd Street and to Pepper Place for the farmer’s market. We are still discussing these ideas and will continue to investigate exciting future options.” More information at birminghamrotary.org

PHOTO: DEE MOORE

Rotarians break ground for the Rotary Trail and sign.

The Rotary Trail is the perfect place to sit and watch the sun set. Photograph by Brent Boyd

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EXCURSIONS 9

LOCALMAPS

UPTOWN

11th Ave N

BJCC

Richard Arrington Blvd N

9th Ave N Birmingham Museumof Art

DOWNTOWN Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

5th Ave N

Linn Park

Kelly Ingram Park

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20th St N

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LAKEVIEW

HIGHLAND PARK Caldwell Park

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LOCALMAPS

TRUSSVILLE

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BIRMINGHAM MOUNTAIN BROOK

HOMEWOOD

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VESTAVIA HILLS

Getting Your Bearings

IRONDALE

LEEDS

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Easy to read maps to help you find your bearings. Please leave the book behind for the next reader to enjoy!

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CAHABA HEIGHTS

HOOVER

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Oak Mountain State Park

31 PELHAM

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hland Golf Course Highland Park Golf Course

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Hotel Map Key

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DoubleTree

Residence Inn

Cobb Lane Bed & Breakfast

Homewood Suites

Hassinger Daniels Masion Bed & Breakfast

The Westin

The Tutwiler

Springhill Suites

Sheraton

The Redmont

Courtyard by Marriott

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nt A

Empire Hotel

EXCURSIONS 11

VISITBESSEMER

There is Change in the Air in IT WAS IN 1886 THAT IRON AND STEEL magnate Henry DeBardeleben founded the city of Bessemer. DeBardeleben’s dream was to make the city a steel center that would attract companies and people from all over the United States. DeBardeleben named the community “Bessemer” in honor of Sir Henry Bessemer, who invented the open-hearth method of steel producing. Bessemer’s rapid growth earned it the nickname the “Marvel City.” Bessemer has a rich history, a diverse economy and great prospects for the future. Here are just a few reasons to visit Bessemer: Bessemer’s restaurants are among the best in Alabama. The renowned The Bright Star has been recognized by the James Beard Foundation for its unique blend of Greek and southern cuisine and has served celebrities from all walks. Bob Sykes Bar-B-Q is a must-visit for southern barbecue lovers. New restaurants such as Boateng’s Cajun Creations and Kaylyn’s Soul Food are carrying on Bessemer’s tradition of outstanding food and fine dining. If you are looking for deals on furniture, antiques, clothing, rugs or sporting goods, look no further than historic downtown Bessemer! Downtown Bessemer is home to a variety of shops and boutiques. Locally-owned stores like United Textiles and Simmons Sporting Goods have set a path now being followed by new shops 12 EXCURSIONS

such as The Walk-In Closet. The Tannehill Promenade Shopping Center, off 1-459 in Bessemer, offers a diverse selection of stores and restaurants. If fun and recreation are what you’re after, then Bessemer is the place for you. Attractions such as Alabama Splash Adventure, home of the Rampage Rollercoaster, and the Autobahn Indoor Speedway offer the best in family fun. You can relax underneath the oaks in historic DeBardeleben Park in the heart of downtown Bessemer or play a round of golf at a myriad of local courses such as the Frank House Municipal Golf Course (named for legendary baseball player and Bessemer-native Frank “Pig” House) and Bent Brook Golf Course. Bessemer is full of history. The Bessemer Hall of History tells the story of Bessemer and its people, while offering visitors unique artifacts such as the typewriter from Adolf Hitler’s Eagles Nest in Germany and the door from a cell block at the old Jefferson County Jail in Bessemer where civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was briefly incarcerated in 1967. Historic homes such as the Owen House and Sweet House offer visitors glimpses into Bessemer’s past. So, what are you waiting for? Come visit Bessemer!

PHOTO: (MIDDLE) LARRY O. GAY

BESSEMER, ALABAMA

VISITBESSEMER

THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN BESSEMER

PHOTOS: (BOTTOM LEFT, BOTTOM RIGHT, TOP RIGHT) LARRY O. GAY

ALABAMA SPLASH ADVENTURE Alabama’s largest water and theme park has more than 90 acres of family fun, including rides, shows and attractions, including the Rampage Rollercoaster, a must-visit for rollercoaster enthusiasts. Open Memorial Day through Labor Day! AUTOBAHN INDOOR SPEEDWAY Go kart enthusiasts can experience a thrill like no other at this 53,000-square-feet, state-ofthe-art facility off Morgan Road in Bessemer. The facility is the largest of its kind in Alabama. The Formula 1-inspired karts can reach speeds up to 50 mph! The indoor track means perfect racing conditions everyday for everyone. BESSEMER HALL OF HISTORY Housed in the Southern Railway Terminal built in 1916, the Hall of History contains Native American artifacts, documents and photographs covering Bessemer’s history. It is home to Hitler’s typewriter, a typewriter taken from Adolf Hitler’s famous Eagles’ Nest, the door to Martin Luther King’s cell in the Jefferson County Courthouse and the 1-millionth Pullman Standard Boxcar. The building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Admission is free. BESSEMER CHRISTMAS PARADE Held each second Saturday in December and

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sponsored by the City of Bessemer and the Bessemer Area Chamber of Commerce, the parade is a tradition in Bessemer and attracts thousands of visitors who line the streets of downtown Bessemer in anticipation of candy, bands, horses, clowns and, of course, an appearance by Santa Claus. Grand marshals have included actress Terri Vaughn and former Philadelphia Eagles star, Wes Hopkins.

run restaurant and it was a charter entrant into the Alabama Barbecue Hall of Fame in 2015

BESSEMER CIVIC CENTER Opened in 1984, the Bessemer Civic Center hosts events such as musical plays, concerts, weddings, wrestling matches and trade shows. The civic center is available for rental. The 13,000 square-foot main hall can seat up to 1,200 for theater-style events.

DEBARDELEBEN PARK Coined by one writer as a “natural oasis,” DeBardeleben Park sits in the middle of historic downtown Bessemer. Enjoy picnics, walks and special events such as the Bob Sykes BBQ & Blues Festival and the Jazz in the Park concert series beneath the shade trees.

THE BRIGHT STAR Opened in 1907, The Bright Star Restaurant is Alabama’s oldest family-run restaurant. “The Star,” as Bessemer residents call it, combines a unique blend of Greek and Southern cuisine which has earned it what one writer termed the “Oscars of the food world” by the prestigious James Beard Foundation. Celebrities such as legendary University of Alabama head football coach Paul “Bear” Bryant and Oscar winner, Sandra Bullock have dined here.

BOB SYKES BLUES AND BBQ FESTIVAL Held each May in Debardeleben Park, the Bob Sykes BBQ and Blues Festival has become one of Central Alabama’s most popular music festivals. The festival draws thousands of visitors to Bessemer for blues and barbecue, including celebrities such as Hill Harper.

BOB SYKES BAR-B-Q Opened in 1957, Bob Sykes Bar-B-Q continues to cook barbecue the old fashioned way-over hickory wood. Bob Sykes Bar-B-Q is a family-

CANAAN BAPTIST CHURCH Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the church and its congregation is recognized for its work during the Civil Rights Movement. Caanan Baptist is among the oldest African-American congregations in Bessemer.

ROOSEVELT PARK Home to the new Bessemer Recreation Center, Roosevelt Park features a World War I German cannon. Bessemer natives and Heisman Trophy winners Vincent “Bo” Jackson and Jameis Winston played on its field during their youth. The park also has a natural freshwater spring, a pavilion, a walking trail, a children’s splash pad and is great for picnics and summer strolls.

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Entertainment Districts Birminghamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s historic urban areas and neighborhoods provide a stunning backdrop for modern entertainment.

idden in some of Birminghamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most historic districts are its most modern, trendy locales that attract locals and tourists with their unique offerings. Five Points South is known as the original entertainment district to those who live here. Recently, however, as more people are moving into the city center, areas like Lakeview and Avondale are also becoming destinations for locals and visitors. The most recent addition to the entertainment scene is the Uptown Entertainment District. Situated near the Westin Hotel

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and The Sheraton Hotel, Uptown is designed for a New Orleansstyle experience with a closed street at night. The Avondale, Crestwood and Lakeview neighborhoods have recently surged in growth in both residential and commercial development. Downtown and the 2nd Avenue District continue to offer more and more places to dine, drink, socialize and live. Regardless of where you are staying while visiting, you are close to one of these areas and the businesses located in them are awaiting your presence.

Birmingham Bowl Pep Rally in Historic Five Points South

Photograph by Padraic Major

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EXCURSIONS 15

Historic Avondale This historic Birmingham neighborhood tops the charts among the most popular destinations for locals and visitors for great food and fun times.

recent multi-million dollar public-private effort to completely renovate historic Avondale Park spurred young entrepreneurs in Birmingham into action to begin reclaiming and reinvigorating a landmark Birmingham neighborhood. Parkside and Saw’s Soul Kitchen were the first bar and restaurant to move in, Saw’s has garnered recognition of its own for their delectable creations and melt-in-your-mouth barbecue. Pioneering this neighborhood makeover was a refurbished office space and then a brewery. But not just any brewery in the eyes of those who live here—Avondale Brewing Company is now also one of the most frequented event locations around. Garden & Gun and Southern Living have both done several articles and mentions about this neighborhood, the brewery and the other businesses that are moving into this area like 41st Street Pub & Aircraft Sales. Avondale’s landscape continues to transform with the addition of a live music venue, Saturn and its space-movies themed coffee shop and bar, Satellite attached. Avondale Spirits jumped into the

16 EXCURSIONS

market with locally-made liquors. Wasabi Juan’s, which specializes in Asian-Mexican fusion dishes, Melt and Rowe’s Service Station help round out the restaurant scene, along with newcomer Taco Morro Loco, which offers authentic Mexican food at their new location. You can shop here, too. The Painted Shovel and Avondale Antiques offer unique finds. One of the newest, most unique things to do in Avondale is to step into Hot Diggity Dog, enter the Tardis phone booth and pick up the phone. If you know the password, you are then permitted to enter The Marble Ring, a 1920s-inspired speakeasy. Coming to Avondale this year is Box Row, a row of business spaces made from storage containers that will allow many new and established businesses a chance to get in on the growing neighborhood. This is the neighborhood to keep your eye on and to visit every time you’re in town. It is guaranteed something will be new here every time you visit.

AV O N D A L E E N T E R TA I N M E N T

Post Office Pies Wasabi Juan’s 4120 3rd Avenue South 205.703.8891 wasabijuan.com Home of the Sushi Burritos! Wasabi Juan’s offers sushi ingredients rolled “burrito-style” in soy wraps or nori, as well as crunchy tacos stuffed with spicy tuna, shrimp ceviche and more. Wasabi Juan’s also features

SAW’s Soul Kitchen

PHOTO: BRENT BOYD

215 41st Street South 205.591.1409 sawsbbq.com The “no fuss-no muss” atmosphere at SAW’s Soul Kitchen is what keeps customers clambering into this small, cozy place in record numbers since its opening in May 2012. Like its sister restaurants SAW’S BBQ and SAW’S Juke Joint, this location features smoked pork and chicken with their famous red and white sauces. What allows this location to differ from the others is

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Mexican Cokes, coconut rice “Frushi rolls” with whipped cream, citrus salt edamame and even Hawaiian ahi poke with macadamia nuts. Fresh, delicious and perfect for lunch or dinner. Hours of Operation: Tuesday - Thursday 11 a.m. - 9 p.m., Friday - Saturday 11 a.m. - 10 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

209 41st Street South 205.599.9900 postofficepies.com Post Office Pies is one of the latest additions to the Avondale neighborhood, featuring delicious wood-fired pizza, pasta, fresh salads and Avondale Brewing Co. brews! Brought to life by a collaboration between SAW’s Soul Kitchen owners Mike Wilson and Brandon Cain and expert chef John Hall, Post

Office Pies is the perfect combination of mouth-watering, hand-tossed pizzas cooked to perfection in wood-fired brick ovens, unique salad creations using local and seasonal ingredients and a bar stocked with everyone’s favorite: Avondale Brewing Co. brews. Hours of Operation: Monday - Wednesday 11 a.m. - 9 p.m., Thursday 11 a.m. 11 p.m., Friday - Saturday 11 a.m. - 12 a.m., Sunday 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Chef Brandon Cain’s take on traditional barbecue. With the creation of dishes like the Pork ‘n Greens-smoked pork on top of a bed of cheese grits and turnip greens, topped with onion rings (pictured), smoked wings in white sauce, Sweet Tea Fried Chicken Sandwich, 8 oz. handcrafted burgers layered to perfection with all of the freshest trimmings and a variety of fresh side items, patrons understand that this is “food for the soul” in their first bite. Hours of Operation: Monday - Saturday: 11 a.m. 8 p.m.

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AV O N D A L E E N T E R TA I N M E N T

Avondale Spirits 4100 3rd Avenue South 205.203.4007 @AvondaleSpirits

The Sour Room at Avondale 4120 3rd Avenue South 205.203.4546 avondalebrewing.com American sour beer is a growing trend across the United States. Sour beer is traditional Belgium-inspired beer made with wild yeast strainsto achieve the sour flavors, a technique used centuries ago to create the unique sour beer. The sour beer craze is now sweeping across the United States and has recently made its way to Birmingham. The Sour Room at Avondale is where the brewmaster, Nate Darnell of Avondale Brewing Company, showcases his barrel-aged selection of sour beer. At The Sour Room, you will experience an intimate atmosphere with a quiet patio.

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This is a place where people meet friends to sip on unique flavors of the sours brewed right on the premises. The Sour Room always has 12 different flavors on tap and a friendly, knowledgeable staff to help you with your sour beer experience. Try the sour blonde with boysenberries, blackberries and blueberries that are used in Nate Darnell’s original, Blend No. 1. Hours of operation: Tuesday - Thursday: 4-10 p.m.; Friday: 3-11 p.m.; Saturday: noon - 11 p.m.; Sunday: 1-8 p.m. Find them on Facebook and Instagram @sourroomavondale and on Twitter @thesourroom.

PHOTOS: (BOTTOM) LINDSEY DRENNAN; (TOP) BRENT BOYD

Avondale Brewery has proven to be one of the most innovative, motivated brands in the Birmingham area. That’s why it’s no surprise that they have now moved into the small-batch liquor business with the launch of Avondale Spirits, just down the road from the original brewery. The new venture is focused on creating quality spirits from “grain to glass.” The first batches of the Avondale vodka, gin and whisky have been wellreceived, with the first batch of the whisky selling out in just a couple of days. A second batch of whisky is expected soon and there are plans to expand the offerings in the near future. Follow them on Facebook @AvondaleSpirits to stay in the know.

SPOTLIGHT

AVONDALE BREWING COMPANY

T PHOTO: PHOTO BRENT BOYD

here’s nothing better than good stories told over great beer. That’s why at Avondale Brewing Company they’ve named all their beers after the folklore of Avondale. They craft their brews with the same unique character and style as the stories they’re named after. A collaboration between brothers Coby and Hunter Lake and brewmaster Craig Shaw, Avondale Brewing is a locally-owned and operated brewery in the heart of the Birmingham. ABC is dedicated to the community and you’ll find that everything they do is about giving back and building up Birmingham. Please visit them and enjoy the fruits of labor. As they like to say, “Trunks Up!”

THE TAPROOM 16 inside taps! Come by the brewery for beers in the taproom and see them at work crafting delicious brews. They’re open every day for sampling of their latest and greatest handcrafted beverages. SPECIAL EVENTS, LIVE MUSIC AND FESTIVALS Avondale Brewing Com-

pany is the perfect place for any special event you have. Their spacious upper story is complete with its own bar and is accessible from its own stairwell for privacy and convenience. Perfect for a wedding, company meeting or formal gathering. Their large outdoor patio and stage is host to weekly live music as well as annual music and food festivals. Check the schedule to see what they’ve got going on!

201 41st Street South; 205.777.5456 AvondaleBrewingCompany avondalebrewing.com

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A FEW OF OUR FLAGSHIP BREWS SPRING STREET SAISON A Belgianstyle farmhouse ale. The Saison is the flagship brew that helped spawn the formation of Avondale Brewing Co. One sip and you will fall in love. BATTLEFIELD INDIA PALE ALE A new twist on an American IPA. A hoppy citrus and floral nose invites you to experience the perfectly balanced IPA. The natural bouquet of their hop blend and malt gives this IPA a victory all its own. VANILLAPHANT PORTER A superb vanilla porter; an ale which is surprisingly light bodied for its robust flavor and has all the chocolate and roasted nut flavors you would expect in a porter but with a special vanilla twist at the end. MISS FANCY’S TRIPEL A strong Belgian golden ale rich in flavor and alcohol. The use of malts, traditional hops, a proprietary yeast blend and Belgian candi sugar creates a very special beer named after a very special elephant.

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MAKEbhm B I R M I N G H A M ’ S N E W E S T A R T I S T CO L L A B O R AT I V E HAS SOME THING FOR EVERYONE By Jenny Adams

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discovered an artist group called 3rd Ward in Brooklyn. They’d acquired a large and lofty warehouse space and were renting affordable space to artists. “We called up 3rd Ward and they talked to us,” Lanier says. “We got a lot of ideas from those conversations. We acquired some working equipment and welding equipment, and through a series of small victories and fails, we dialed in on what people wanted versus what we thought they wanted,” he says. “We like to think of ourselves as enablers. We try to make starting or pursuing an idea easier. We are an incubator, but not a small business starter. Everyone here is doing their own thing.” One mission of MAKEbhm is to connect with locals with these artists. Classes are available on a daily or weekly basis, teaching everything from basic woodworking to more advanced furniture building, from novice pottery to gas welding and candelabra design. They also hosts events monthly, inviting people to come and meet the artists, have a glass of wine and do some on-site shopping. 4000 3rd Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35222 Monday - Saturday at 11 a.m. MAKEbhm.com @MAKEbhm View each tenant’s mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com

PHOTO: WES FRAZIER

creative collaborative. An incubator for expressive minds. A junction for the future concepts of Birmingham’s artists—MAKEbhm is all of these things and more. Inside of a 22,000-square-foot warehouse in Avondale, you’ll now find dozens of artists working in multiple mediums. Their creations – from pottery to metal work, custom wood furnishings to jewelry – are also being sold around the city in various boutiques and retailers. They rent adjoining space to A. K. Hall – a jewelry maker who uses stones, pearls and metals in an undeniably beautiful way (shop online at www.madebyak.com) – and Winslet & Rhys Mercantile, a boutique with a curations of small-producer artisan goods and fashion. Big Spoon Creamery adds an edible twist to this creative hub in Avondale, which is already one of the city’s coolest places to visit. MAKEbhm officially opened to artists and to the curious public in mid-2016, but it was devised nearly a decade ago, by an architect named Bruce Lanier and a few of his friends. “I think this was a love-child born of a recession and a mid-life crisis,” laughs Lanier, who now serves as executive director of the project. “I’m an architect by day. And in 2009, it was rough being an architect. I had this set of notes on the wall of things I could be doing with my life. One was the idea of a community workshop.” He wanted to create a space where artists in different mediums could come together, lowering the cost of real estate, but maximizing the effects of collaboration and inspiration. He began researching and

AV O N D A L E E N T E R TA I N M E N T

Winslet & Rhys

Big Spoon Creamery

4000 3rd Avenue South #105, Birmingham 205.201.4456 winsletandrhys.com

4000 3rd Avenue South #104, Birmingham 205.568.8856 bigspooncreamery.com

@winsletandrhys

@BigSpoonBHAM

Winslet & Rhys introduces Birmingham to a fresh perspective on the traditional mercantile shoppe. Spearheaded by a complementary blend of creative talents, Winslet & Rhys maintains a specialized focus on home goods and easily accessible custom design services. Curiosities for all ages are provided through a selectively curated supply of distinctive apparel, accessories and market items. Winslet & Rhys believes in innovative design, quality craftsmanship, exceptional customer service and ethically manufactured goods. They believe in community and serving as a creative resource for their neighbors through hosted workshops and other events. They provide a carefully curated shopping experience that continuously excites and inspires Birmingham.

Big Spoon Creamery is a small batch, artisan ice cream company, and they are seriously passionate about their craft. Their philosophy and approach to ice cream comes from values and principles Ryan and Geri Martha learned working as chefs in some of Birmingham’s best restaurants under famed chef and restauranteur, Frank Stitt. Their goal is to impact their community through a commitment to service and relationships in addition to the highest quality ice cream using local and seasonal ingredients. Ryan and Geri-Martha O’Hara founded Big Spoon Creamery in 2014, selling their small-batch, artisan ice cream out of an old school ice cream trike, as well as a food truck. They’ve now brought their ice cream to Avondale with their first brick and mortar storefront at the MAKEbhm building. (Opening April 2017)

Alasaw

Weld

Susan Gordon Pottery

205.377.6729 alasaw.com

205.218.5891 weldbham.com

susangordonpottery.com

@alabamasawyer

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@BigSpoonCreamery

Alabama Sawyer (Alasaw) is Birmingham’s only tree-to-table furniture company. Alabama is home to the second largest urban forest in the US. Alasaw recognizes the value in these majestic trees, fallen from storms, displaced by development, or otherwise headed for the landfill. They transform them into elegant designs, both furniture and unique home accessories, obsessively crafted to delight and endure. Come meet the designers and makers at an event or learn more and buy designs at alasaw.com. Go mobile at EXCURSIONSGO.com

@Weldbham

@Weldforbham

Weld: Birmingham’s Newspaper, is the premier source for news and entertainment in the Birmingham metro area. Weld provides readers with leading edge journalism and thought-provoking writing on a variety of topics, including in-depth public affairs reporting, arts and culture, and community engagement. Weld also publishes comprehensive events calendars, covering performing arts, dining, visual arts, and more. The newspaper is distributed at over 400 locations across the Birmingham metro area.

@susangordonpottery Susan Gordon Pottery is a smallbatch pottery studio creating collections of dinnerware, serving ware, decorative accents and handmade jewelry that are organic, detailed, modern and timeless. Susan’s work can be found in boutique retailers in Birmingham and cities across the country. Shop online at susangordonpottery.etsy.com

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Crestwood

restwood Park is the anchor of this neighborhood and recently enjoyed a multi-million dollar renovation that now includes walking paths, an off-leash area for pets, a swimming pool, new state-of-the-art playground, tennis courts, a pavilion with open fire place, sports field for soccer and football and a trickling brook that runs the center of it all. Residents of Crestwood have witnessed a major revitalization in both housing and commercial development. Local business owners are thriving in the Crestwood Center located just next door to the beautifully landscaped park. 22 EXCURSIONS

Small businesses like Crestwood Tavern have been operating for many years and provided a springboard for other businesses to open and thrive here. More recently, Seasick Records, Boxcar Vape and The Filling Station have taken up residence in Crestwood Center. Urban Suburban not only provides a cornucopia of items ranging from antiques to rare collectibles, but also serves as a meeting spot for many neighborhood events and fundraisers for local charities each year. Crestwood Coffee has been a mainstay here for many years now, too. Stop in for fresh cup of coffee and peruse the antiques booths next door. Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll all welcome you warmly.

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This historic Birmingham neighborhood is filling up with a new generation of families who wish to be near the urban scenes and city center.

C R E S T W O O D E N T E R TA I N M E N T

Urban Suburban Antiques 5514 Crestwood Blvd. 205.592.0777 urbansuburbanantiques.com Urban Suburban Antiques is located in the Crestwood area and is often called the best antique shop in Birmingham by patrons. The location offers a variety of items sure to please the antique shopper in

any family, from furniture to knick-knacks and more. Many one-of-a-kind-items found in stock and inventory changes often. With more than 12,000 square feet of shopping space and over 60 dealers, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re sure to find a car load of treasures to take home with you.

The Filling Station 5524 Crestwood Blvd. 205.592.3455 The Filling Station is a former gas station that serves pizza, pasta and other Italian favorites. The menu is also well-rounded in the traditional fare department with an Italian flare, offering burgers, fresh salads and three different flavors of chicken wings. The full bar offers more than

20 beers on tap. The beer offerings include favorites from local breweries, as wells traditional favorites and specialties. Enjoy the game on one of their many HDTVs or lounge out on the expansive patio and enjoy the weather. Be sure to get a selfie with their vintage gas station pump, too. See profile in the dining section for more information.

Crestwood Tavern

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5500 Crestwood Blvd. 205.510.0053 Crestwood Tavern is a friendly neighborhood bar located in the heart of the Crestwood neighborhood of Birmingham. They offer traditional pub fare, delicious drinks, a patio and entertainment to residents and visitors alike. The paninis, pizza, traditional appetizers, fully-stocked bar and live music make it a daily favorite with locals. Visit their Facebook page for more information and to view their menu.

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Historic Lakeview Birmingham’s most eclectic entertainment district with influences from around the globe.

Cantina Tortilla Grill 2901 2nd Avenue South, Ste. 110 205.323.6980 cantinabirmingham.com Cantina Tortilla Grill has been a local favorite, serving up made-fresh-daily Mexican food in a laid back, fun atmosphere, for over 10 years. The dining room in the Martin Biscuit Co. location is the perfect space to unwind, and from their famous tacos to the inventive daily specials, the menu options are sure to satisfy every palette. From a lighter fare of appetizers or specialty tacos to a larger meal of enchiladas, 24 EXCURSIONS

quesadillas or one of the other specialty dishes, such as Tortilla Encrusted Tilapia, Nahitos or Churrasco Steak, Cantina Tortilla is certain to have something that will appeal to you. Sides such as Saffron Rice, Sweet Potato Chips, Garlic Home Fries and Frijol De La Olla pair perfectly with the main menu items to create a dinner experience unlike other places in the city. Join them each week for half-price specialty drinks and tapas at Tapas and Tequila Tuesday. And join them at the bar for a front row view of the game.

PHOTO: (TOP) DAVID R. DONALDSON PHOTO:

akeview is Southside’s most eclectic mix of fine and casual dining, nightclubs and pubs and some of Birmingham’s most notable characters. The SideBar Cafe is a popular watering hole and live music venue in this historic neighborhood. You will find folks frolicing on the patio year round. Down the street is one of the most iconic establishments in Birmingham’s history, Lou’s Pub & Package Store. There will be a cast of characters hanging out here nightly. Lou’s is also one of the few places to purchase liquor after sundown. The newest kids on the block are Sky Castle and Babalu along with Jack Brown’s Beer & Burger Joint and Mojo. Anchoring Lakeiew is Slice Pizza & Brew. The Bajalieh Brothers know pizza and beer—they’ve concocted their own pizza creations like none other you’ve ever had. With a full bar and wide selection of craft beers, Slice is now a Birmingham landmark. Tin Roof is the another party spot making a splash in Lakeview. Billed as a live music joint, Tin Roof ’s menu is teeming with a variety of freshly-made delights and they’re open for lunch. Cantina Tortilla Grill is in the Dr. Pepper complex and offers authentic flavors from south of the border. Jorge Castro and his team combine the freshest ingredients with their latin culinary expertise for what is known as a big local favorite for food and drinks.

L A K E V I E W E N T E R TA I N M E N T

Sky Castle 2808 7th Avenue South 205.578.6080 skycastlebham.com Sky Castle, located in Lakeview, is your Birmingham hub for all things EATS, DRINKS and SPORTS. Sky Castle offers a classic twist on American eats, craft cocktails and endless walls of crystal clear TVs ensure you don’t miss a single game this season! Party platters, buckets of beer specials and swag giveaways ensure your group is game day ready! Jeff, Chris and Jason Bajalieh are also the bro-founders behind Slice Pizza and Brewhouse and Sol’s

Tin Roof

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709 7th Avenue South 205.323.4356 tinroofbirmingham.com Tin Roof is a bar that serves food, but mistaking their culinary offerings for typical bar food is impossible. The eclectic menu offers everything from quesadillas to brisket mac and cheese to chicken and waffle nuggets. There are also a number of burgers and sandwiches on the menu, including a catfish BLT that you won’t find anywhere else. Tin Roof also offers a variety of “bar foods” like

Deli & Sandwich Shop. The restaurant’s name is a throwback to Birmingham’s first Top 40 radio station, WSGN, which built a “sky castle” remote broadcasting station atop the drive-in that once sat at the current 29 Seven site. In the 1950s, DJs broadcasted live from the remote studio, taking requests from the crowd gathered at the drive-in below. The owners chose to pay homage to the history of the site with the look and feel of the interior of the restaurant. See profile in the dining section for more information.

Lou’s Pub & Package Store 726 29th Street South 205.322.7005 louspub.com Esquire magazine named Lou’s Pub one of the “100 Best Bars in America!” Lou’s Pub & Package Store, celebrating 30 years, is Birmingham’s most unique boutique dive bar with a “Cheers” feel and they are also a package store! Loved by all who enter, Lou’s Pub is known for its diverse clientele and colorful

bartenders. Although the bar’s namesake, Louis Zaden, has had his “last call,” for the past eight years the proprietor, Michael Carpri, has kept old traditions alive and well— service matters! “Sit down, shut up and drink!” The staff here says, “the only time you should get out of your seat is to pee or greet a friend.” With a full line of quality high-end spirits, there’s so many reasons to “Meet at Lou’s!”

nachos, fried pickles, wings, chicken tenders and more, with their own spin to make sure they are different than any other bar food in the city. On the lighter side, the Rockin’ Guac with warm tortilla chips is a great choice or the chip and dip sampler is great to share with a group. With a plethora of HDTVs, you won’t miss any of your favorite sports teams and you can enjoy a game of pool, too. Open daily for lunch, dinner and late night from 11 a.m. until 3 a.m.

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L A K E V I E W E N T E R TA I N M E N T

Sidebar 2929 7th Avenue South 205.224.4410 lakeviewsidebar.com Sidebar is the hottest spot in the most thriving entertainment district of Birmingham. Whether you’re just starting the afternoon or burning the midnight oil, this is your haven. With their weatherproof patio, there is plenty of space to enjoy the open air or belly up to the bar in their inviting front room and bring your A-game to their dance room—complete with back patio and a bar of its own. Come play or watch a game

of beach volleyball on the newly built outdoor beach volleyball court—equipped with loads of outdoor seating and a fully stocked bar. Celebrate Hump Day with their Wine Wednesday specials and all 18 drafts are half-off all night as well! Live music every Friday and Saturday night—so come get down with them! See their profile in the nightlife section for more information.

Slice Pizza and Brewhouse 725 29th Street South 205.715.9300 slicebirmingham.com Pizza-making has reached an art form at Slice Pizza and Brewhouse. Chef Terrill Brazelton uses fresh, seasonal ingredients to marry medleys of flavors in their specialty pizzas. They keep the menu as fresh as their ingredients, so you’ll always have new things to try. Started by brothers, Jeff, Jason and Chris Bajalieh, Slice is as local as you can get, from the ingredients that go into

every pizza to the local craft brews on tap. Slice’s expansive outdoor patio features a real wood-burning fireplace and a fantastic view of Lakeview— perfect for relaxing and people-watching. With pizza offerings ranging from traditional pepperoni to those named for local specialties, from “The Lakeview,” honoring the area Slice calls home, to “The Chilton,” that features Chilton County peaches as a topping. Valet parking available nightly. See their profile in the dining section for more information.

According to the Lakeview Business Association, there was originally a lake located at the intersection of Highland and Clairmont avenues. The area surrounding the lake became a gathering ground for people, largely because there was a trolley car drop off in the “Lakeview” area. The area’s social appeal was increased with a pavilion, swimming pool, skating rink, bowling alley and dance floor. The Lakeview Hotel, theatre and baseball park were also a draw to the area. The Lakeview Baseball Park even hosted the first inner-state rivalry game between Alabama and Auburn. Although the attractions have changed and the lake is largely gone, the area remains a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. A portion of the original lake still exists on the Highland Golf Course. Photograph courtesy of the Birmingham Public Library Archives

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So, we call it Lakeview—but there’s no lake?

F I V E P O I N T S S O U T H E N T E R TA I N M E N T

Historic Five Points South

PHOTOS: COURTESY OF THE BIRMINGHAM PUBLIC LIBARARY

This historic Birmingham neighborhood celebrates its 130 year anniversary in 2017.

ew areas in Birmingham combine rich history and modern attractions in such balance as the Five Points South area. Founded in 1887, the historic area first began as a town called Highland. Property owners in the area petitioned the legislature to incorporate the area. Once approved, The town had taken control of a portion of Highland Avenue and Elyton Land Company provided a steam trolley service. At the time, the appeal of the area was its higher elevation than the downtown area, as well as the distance from the iron furnaces, like Sloss, while still being easily accessible by streetcar. When the Magic City’s magic came from steel, many of the magicians made their homes in the suburb that is now Five Points. With all the streetcar lines intersecting in the area of 20th Street, 11th Avenue and Magnolia Avenue, it wasn’t long before businesses, like a grocery store, drug store and other retail stores began to place their businesses in the area where the downtown lines intersected with the residential areas. In 1892, the mayor of Highland, Jack Cohen, reported that the town had 1/8 of Birmingham’s population with 1/7 of its area. The town was annexed into Birmingham in 1893 after Go mobile at EXCURSIONSGO.com

residents rallied to merge with Birmingham, as they saw a bright future for the larger city. On January 21, 1893, the town of Highland was annexed into Birmingham as the city’s sixth and seventh wards. Businesses, residences and churches all f looded to the popular area for decades, but as the times changed, so did Five Points. This year, the area celebrates 130 years as a business and social hub for the city. Now, the Five Points area is host to a number of trendy bars and hangouts anchored by some of the city’s finest eateries. Five Points has proven the heartbeat to the food renaissance taking place in Birmingham. With so many food options, locals can often be seen walking between various restaurants and pubs to sample the various offerings and no walk through Five Points is complete without marveling at one of the city’s most controversial figures—the “Storyteller” fountain. The bronzed statue, created by Birmingham artist Frank Fleming, which depicts a ram-headed figure with the body of a man reading to a number of other creatures gathered around has drawn admiration and criticism.

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5 Point Public House Oyster Bar 1210 20th Street South 205.918.0726 5pointpublichouse.com For fresh Southeastern costal oysters as well as sushi and more unusual items like alligator tacos, fried pork skins unique burgers, look no further than 5 Point Public House and Oyster Bar. The new Southside hot spot boasts an eclectic menu that is the brainchild of award-winning chef/owner

George Reis. The foods aren’t the only attraction, with more than 40 craft beers, 20 beers on tap and cocktails offered to pair with the food. The restaurant also has something unique to Birmingham—eight keg-style wines on tap to be served with dinner or enjoyed in the pub-style atmosphere of the new gastropub. See their full page profile in the dining section for more information.

Ocean 1218 20th Street South 205.933.0999 oceanbirmingham.com For the last 15 years, Birmingham diners looking for bold seafood experience have relied on Ocean in Five Points South to satisfy their cravings. Although the restaurant and its chef/owner George Reis have won numerous awards over the years, what keeps diners returning to Ocean is the ambiance of the restaurant’s interior and patio. Their signature martinis and the restaurant’s Raw Bar which allows

diners to sample some of the oysters, shrimp and lobster the restaurant has to offer, also attracts patrons to the restaurant. Ocean is also known for its whole fish plates and pure fish plates that are fresh, quality ingredients, simply prepared. Although the seafood offerings are the star attraction, the restaurant is also known for its mouthwatering Hereford filet mignon. See their full page profile in the dining section for more information.

Cobb Lane is located in the Five Points South area. The one-block long alley runs between 13th and 14th Avenues South and was originally a horse pen area and later a garage for vehicles. In the 1940s, Virginia Cobb converted a former apartment building into retail shops that opened into the back alley, rather than 19th Street South. Her dress shop and eventual tea room, invigorated the area. She then opened the Cobb Lane Restaurant in 1948. The restaurant operated in the space for sixty years. The unnamed, brick-paved alleyway was named Cobb Lane in 1982 in her honor. Cobb Lane is now one of only two remaining cobblestone streets in the Magic City and is home to several trendy restaurants and bar making it a frequent hot spot for those in the Five Points Area.

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Cobb Lane The Hidden Gem of Five Points South

F I V E P O I N T S S O U T H E N T E R TA I N M E N T

Delta Blues Hot Tamales 1318 Cobb Lane South 205.502.7298 deltablueshottamales.com If you’re in the mood for some great southern food, then Delta Blues Hot Tamales is the place to dine. Delta Blues is your choice for spicy pork and black bean tamales, catfish, Italian sausage, smoked wings, crawfish étouffée, red beans

Blue Monkey Lounge 1318 Cobb Lane South, Birmingham 205.933.9222 @bluemonkeybirmingham Blue Monkey Lounge is the place for a relaxing evening and a diverse list of martinis and spirits, including their signature Blue Monkey Martini. Choose from their cigar selection while you enjoy watching a large screen TV on their smoke-friendly patio. Sit back and enjoy a diverse

crowd lounging around Blue Monkey Lounge as if they had nowhere else to go and else to do. Friends sit around and are lively, sipping their drinks and relaxing. Enjoy live music each weekend and take advantage of their inventive happy hour offerings during the week. See their profile in the night life section for more information.

The J. Clyde 1312 Cobb Lane South 205.939.1312 jclyde.com

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and rice and so much more. Locally owned and operated by Adam and Fawn Freis, Delta Blues was developed by their inspiration to create a menu that is peanut-free, soyfree, gluten-free and is also accessible to vegetarians, vegans and people with other food allergies. See their profile in the dining section for more information.

The J. Clyde is located on Cobb Lane, a historic cobblestone street in the Five Points South entertainment district. Styled like a Parisian café on the outside and an old-style German alehouse on the inside, The J. Clyde is the absolute authority in Birmingham on craft beer and wines. With more than 60 craft brews on tap at all times, The J. Clyde is among the first to offer new brews as they hit the market. They are also known for their fantastic food-beer and food-wine pairings. The

open-air patio along Cobb Lane is a favorite hangout for locals and the enclosed biergarten patio is open yearround. Regularly listed among the top bars in Birmingham, The J. Clyde, has also been named one of the best beer bars in the nation for several years. Casual beer drinkers and aficionados alike will enjoy the offerings, as well as the atmosphere, at The J. Clyde. See their profile in the dining section for more information.

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Uptown & Downtown Birmingham’s revitalized downtown area is a favorite destination for locals and visitors alike.

ptown is Birmingham’s newest entertainment district adjoining The Westin Hotel. Anchored by a central fountain and sunny outdoor spaces, the district is proving popular not only with visitors but with locals attending concerts, plays, consumer shows and other events at the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex (BJCC). One of the most notable features of the new district is the giant television screen that serves as both a digital billboard for the district and is also used to televise sporting events and concerts. Downtown, especially the Second Avenue area, is brimming

2200 1st Avenue North 205.323.8228 wineloftbham.com Located in the heart of Birmingham’s historic downtown entertainment district, The Wine Loft offers a unique experience for those with a sophisticated palate and sense of style. Relax with friends or colleagues in one of their curtained lounge areas and choose from the vast collection of wines from the wine cellar or you may prefer a craft cocktail or beer from the fully-stocked bar.

Treat yourself to wines by the glass or bottle served alongside eclectic tapas, appetizers, pizzas, gourmet flatbreads and desserts. With hundreds of wines from all over the world, The Wine Loft is Birmingham’s single best location to find the perfect wine or enjoy an old favorite. They offer wine tastings on Wine Down Wednesdays. See their profile in the night life section for more information.

Green Acres Cafe 21705 4th Avenue North 205.251.3875 greenacres-cafe.com Founded in 1958 by Mr. Charles Gratton, Green Acres Café’s original and current location is a Birmingham landmark and institution in the heart of the Civil Rights District and Fourth Avenue Business District in downtown. Mr. Gratton handed down the business to his son, Greg and his family and they have expanded to five Birmingham 30 EXCURSIONS

area locations. Stop by any of their familyowned or franchised locations for award-winning chicken wings, fried green tomatoes, fried okra, fries, whole and filleted catfish and much more. Green Acres Center Point, 205.815.0409 Green Acres Irondale, 205.956.4648 Green Acres East Lake, 205.836.9797 Green Acres Ensley, 205.786.7040 See their profile in the dining section for more information.

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The Wine Loft

with restaurants and craft cocktail lounges. Pale Eddie’s and Rogue Tavern are among the hottest places to go. El Barrio, Bamboo, Live music, great food and friendly folks abound in this area. This is the perfect part of the city to visit for a night of entertainment and great food, The Fourth Avenue Business District, which encompasses several city blocks and includes Kelly Ingram Park, the 16th Street Baptist Church and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, is home to Green Acres Cafe, a Birmingham institution established in 1958. Recently named a national monument, the area is rich in civil rights history.

UPTOWN&DOWNTOWN

Cantina Laredo Birmingham 2301 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N 205.502.0915 cantinalaredo.com Cantina Laredo serves authentic Mexican dishes in a sophisticated atmosphere. The Mexico City style menu includes grilled fish, chicken and steaks complimented by signature sauces such as

Rogue Tavern 2312 2nd Avenue North 205.202.4151 roguetavern.com

PHOTOS: TOP RIGHT) COURTESY OF CANTINA LAREDO; (TOP LEFT) BRENT BOYD

Rogue Tavern blends the owners’ love for food and great music, often featuring local bands one night and wellknown acts the next. Rogue Tavern also serves as a local hangout to watch sporting events like football on their seven large screens, and then

catch a show when the game is over. They also host numerous events throughout the year, including a Halloween block party. Rogue is one of the best places in town to enjoy dinner and a show, while enjoying the large selection of beer and liquor offered at their bar. See their full page profile in the dining section for more information.

Pale Eddie’s 2308 2nd Avenue North 205.297.0052 paleeddiespourhouse.com Pale Eddie’s offers a rotating selection of craft and high-gravity beers, as well as a large selection of wines and liquors. The bar boasts a cozy, pub-like ambiance nestled in the historic loft district. Pale Eddie’s also often hosts live music acts with an emphasis on singer/songwriters and acoustic acts. Regional and national performers like Matthew Mayfield (pictured) play here regularly. The bar’s backdrop also focuses on works from local Go mobile at EXCURSIONSGO.com

chipotle-wine with portobello mushrooms or sauteed artichoke hearts and roasted red peppers. Enjoy the awardwinning signature margarita, Casa Rita, made from fresh lime juice and the finest tequila on the outdoor patio or at the roof-top bar. See their profile in the dining section for more information.

artists, which change often. With food catered by Rogue Tavern, Pale Eddie’s upstairs is the perfect place to host a company mixer or to entertain clients in a private setting. Pale Eddie’s is also the perfect place to hang out with friends, meet clients and/or co-workers for casual conversations. You may also enjoy their cozy patio with HDTVs where any given day of the week you are as comfortable here as you would be at home. Come on in to Pale Eddie’s and get your pour on tonight. See their profile in the nightlife section for more information.

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Get Ready, Get Set, Shop!

irmingham has long been known as the retail giant of Alabama and offers everything from major department stores and popular chains to quaint boutique shopping, including one-of-a-kind vintage and couture. Located in Hoover, The Riverchase Galleria is Alabama’s largest retail complex. You’ll find 200 specialty shops, 30 eateries and several major department stores. The Summit, located on Highway 280 at I-459 boasts more than 80 upscale shops to choose from and more than a dozen places to eat. Designed as an open air mall, The Summit can be a delicious, all day shopping experience. For timeless treasures and unique finds, be sure to stop in Homewood Antiques & Marketplace in Homewood. Set aside plenty of time, though. Hoover Antiques Gallery and Urban Suburban are two more locally-owned antique and collectible stores you shouldn’t miss. Hoover Antique Gallery caters to the traditional and has a wide variety of antiques, jewelry and estate pieces. Urban Suburban, nestled in

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the charming and revitalized Crestwood neighborhood on Birmingham’s eastern side, caters to the chic and hip. They have a wide selection of art, furniture and vintage finds for the home. The Villages of Mountain Brook offer shopping and dining experiences that are not to be missed. Conveniently situated just southeast of downtown Birmingham, off of Red Mountain Expressway (Hwy 280), Mountain Brook Village is brimming with unique boutiques, antique stores and casual and fine eateries. This is a great place to spend a day or a couple of hours strolling from store to store. Collage Designer Consignment has two locations and has the latest fashions for both women and men. Located in downtown Homewood and in Vestavia City Center, Collage specializes in name brand apparel, jewelry and accessories at unbeatable prices. Wherever you decide to begin your shopping adventure in Birmingham, you’ll enjoy our friendly people, ample selection of retailers and our beautiful mountains and valleys.

PHOTO: BRENT BOYD

This town offers shoppers a run for their money.

LOCALSHOPPING COLONIAL BROOKWOOD VILLAGE Conveniently located in Homewood right off 280 Highway, shoppers find specialty stores as well as larger retailers such as Macy’s, Belk and Books-A-Million. It also houses several particularly good restaurants. Garage and courtesy valet parking is available. Located on Shades Creek Pkwy. (Alabama 149) between U.S. 280 and U.S. 31 just minutes from downtown Birmingham. shopbrookwoodvillage.com THE OUTLET 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, Carters Babies and Kids and more. shopsofgrandriver.com

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PEPPER PLACE MARKET Formerly the Dr. Pepper Syrup Plant and Bottling Company, Pepper Place is the focal point of the Lakeview District in the Southside area of Birmingham. Since the Pepper Place Market’s inception in 1999, it has become a great event for Birmingham during the summer. The market is open, rain or shine. All Pepper Place Markets open promptly at 7 a.m. and close at noon each market day. Pepper Place also anchors the design district. pepperplacemarket.com. PINNACLE TUTWILER FARM 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 a Kohl’s anchoring the other. The third cluster of shops is the Pinnacle Go mobile at EXCURSIONSGO.com

Shopping Center, located behind Target and anchored by Belk and Best Buy. shoppinnacleattutwiler.com RIVERCHASE GALLERIA Housed beneath the world’s longest skylight are more than 200 shops, a dozen restaurants and a colorful carousel. Look for Von Maur, American Eagle, Banana Republic, Godiva Chocolatier and Abercrombie & Finch, 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. riverchasegalleria.com THE SUMMIT This shopping destination continues to thrive and expand. A recent addition brought shops such as Coldwater Creek, Anthropologie and J. Jill to the list, which already includes Saks, Old Navy, Restoration Hardware, Williams. Sonoma, Chico’s, the Pottery Barn, a luxury spa and some very good restaurants such as The Village Tavern. At I-459 and U.S. 280. thesummitonline.com THE VILLAGE AT LEE BRANCH This 86-acre development includes retail, entertainment, and office use. The retail portion fronts on U. S. Highway 280, the major corridor of the booming north Shelby County market area. Retailers and restaurants include: Publix Super Market, Academy Sports, Rave Motion Pictures, Hobby Lobby, Classic Joe’s, The Melting Pot, Taziki’s, Pablo’s Restaurante & Cantina and Octane Café.

The Humidor Room 5511 Hwy 280, Ste. 101, Birmingham, AL 35342 205.995.4481 humidorroom280.com @thehumidorroom The Humidor Room is a welcome surprise to travelers whether you are a beginner or a connoisseur of finer things, their knowledgeable staff is welcoming, kind and knows just the right recipe for relaxing your mind. The Humidor Room offers an ever-expanding selection of cigars in their large walk-in humidor, as well as 32 humidified cigar lockers that are available for lease and hookah to smoke on-site. See their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com to view their Facebook page, get directions, hours, link to their website and more.

EXCURSIONS 33

Antiques

CIRCA INTERIORS & ANTIQUES

HOMEWOOD ANTIQUES & MARKETPLACE

URBAN SUBURBAN ANTIQUES

2831 Culver Road, Birmingham 205.868.9199 circainteriors.com

930 Oxmoor Road, Homewood 205.4149945 homewoodantiques.com

5514 Crestwood Blvd, Birmingham, 205.592.0777

CLARK ANTIQUES GALLERY

HOOVER ANTIQUE GALLERY

2717 2nd Ave., S, Birmingham 205.325.1999 clarkantiquesgallery.com

3411 Old Columbia Road, Hoover 204.822.9500

ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGE

FOUR SEASONS ANTIQUES, ART AND BOTANICALS

2817 2nd Ave. S, Birmingham 205.323.2817

200 28th Street S, Birmingham 205.322.3538 architecturalheritage.com

2910 18th Street S, Birmingham 205.803.4059 4seasonsantiquesandart.com

2227 First Ave. S, Birmingham 205.714.9933

5TH AVENUE ANTIQUES

2410 5th Ave. S, Birmingham 205.320.0500 5thavenueantiques.com

INTERIORS AT PEPPER PLACE

JACKSON GALLERIES

ARGENT

FULL CIRCLE

2949 18th Street S, Homewood 205.871.4221

LAMB’S EARS, LTD

3908 Clairmont Ave. S, Birmingham 205.202.5907 fullcirlceforestpark.com

70 Church Street, Mountain Brook 205.802.5700 lambsearsltd.com

GARDENDALE FLEA MALL & ANTIQUE CENTER

2116 2nd Ave. N, Birmingham 205.251.3381 levysfinejewelry.com

BAMA FLEA MARKET AND ANTIQUES

1605 Ashville Road, Leeds 205.699.2499 bamafleamall.com CHARM

2329 2nd Ave. N, Birmingham 205.322.9023, charmonsecond.com CHRISTOPHER GLENN, INC.

2713 19th Street S, Homewood 205.870.1236 christopherglenninc.com CHRISTOPHER HOUSE ANTIQUES

3205 2nd Ave. S, Birmingham 205.581.0202 christopherhouseinc.com

34 EXCURSIONS

2405 Decatur Hwy., Gardendale, 205.631.7451 gardendalefleamall.com

LEVY’S FINE JEWELRY

MARTHA LAUREN ANTIQUE LINENS & ACCESSORIES

5475 Hwy. 280, Inverness 205.995.4773

2417 Canterbury Road, Birmingham 205.871.2283

HANNA ANTIQUES/ BOOKS! BY GEORGE

MULBERRY HEIGHTS ANTIQUES

GREYSTONE ANTIQUES

2424 7th Ave. S, Birmingham 205.323.6036 HENHOUSE ANTIQUES

1900 Cahaba Road, Birmingham 205.918.0505 henhouseantiques.com

2419 Canterbury Road, Birmingham 205.870.1300 mulberryheightsantiques.com NOORDERMEER ANTIEKS

731 Broadway Street, Homewood 205.870.1161

ON-A-SHOESTRING

601 Shades Crest Road, Hoover 205.822.8741 PAINTED SHOVEL MERCANTILE

400 41st Street S, Birmingham 205.593.2083; paintedshovel.net REED BOOKS, THE MUSEUM OF FOND MEMORIES

2021 Third Ave. N, Birmingham 205.326.4460, jimreedbooks.com SOHO RETRO

2805 18th Street S, Homewood 205.870.7655 shopsohoretro.com THE KING’S HOUSE

2807 2nd Ave. S, Birmingham 205.320.2535 kingshouseantiques.com TRICIA’S TREASURES

2700 19th Place S, Homewood 205.871.9779 triciastreasures.com TRUSSVILLE ANTIQUE MALL/ THE MALL CAFE

147 North Chalkville Road, Trussville 205.661.9805 WHAT’S ON SECOND

2306 2nd Ave. N, Birmingham 205.322.2688, ZOE’S IN FOREST PARK

3900 Clairmont Ave S, Birmingham, 205.595.9049

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ANTIQUES&ART

Art

BIRMINGHAM MUSEUM OF ART

FOUR SEASONS ANTIQUES, ART AND BOTANICALS

A’MANO

2000 Rev. Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd., Birmingham, 205.254.2565 or 254.2566 artsbma.org

2910 18th Street S, Birmingham 205.803.4059 4seasonsantiquesandart.com

2707 Culver Road, Birmingham 205.871.9093 amanogifts.com ARCENEAUX GALLERY

FRIENDS GALLERY HOOVER PUBLIC LIBRARY

1830 29th Ave S, Homewood 205.802.5800, arceneauxgallery.com

2100 Park Place, Birmingham 205.226.3600, bplonline.org

ART ALLEY

BLUARCH COLLECTION

GABRIELLA’S BISTRO & ART GALLERY

109 Broadway Street, Homewood 205.879.1105 artalleybham.com

142 West Maple, Birmingham 248.792.9954

317 17th Ave N, Birmingham 205.983.7249

DANIEL DAY GALLERY & MELODYMADEIT INC.

LEVITE JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER

3365 Morgan Drive, Vestavia Hills 205.979.8990 artistsincorporated.com

3025 6th Ave. S, Birmingham, 205.731.9420

3960 Montclair Road, Birmingham, 205.879.0411, bhamjcc.org

DS ART STUDIO GALLERY

LITTLEHOUSE GALLERIES

ATCHISON GALLERY & VILLAGE FRAMERS

2805 Crescent Ave., Ste. E, Homewood, 205.802.4700 dsart.com

2915 Linden Ave., Homewood 205.879.7022 littlehousegalleries.com

ARTISTS INCORPORATED

PHOTO: FLOREA PAUL DANIEL | DREAMSTIME.COM

BIRMINGHAM PUBLIC LIBRARY

2847 Culver Road, Birmingham 205.871.6221 BETA PICTORIS GALLERY

DURBIN GALLERY/ AZAR ART STUDIOS

2411 Second Ave N, Birmingham 205.413.2999 betapictorisgallery.com

900 Arkadelphia Road, Birmingham 205.226.4925

BEVERLY MCNEIL ART GALLERY

605 28th Street S, Birmingham, 205.328.1761 beverlymcneilgallery..com

200 Municipal Drive, Hoover 205.444.7820

NAKED ART GALLERY

3831 Clairmont Ave S., Birmingham 205.595.3553 nakedartusa.com

FOUR CORNERS GALLERY

NEW LIFE ART, INC.

4700 Hwy. 280, Ste. B, Birmingham, 205.980.2600 fourcornersgalleryonline.com

3600 Lorna Ridge Drive, Hoover 205.979.2158 newlifeart.com

ODESSA WOOLFOLK GALLERY AT THE BIRMINGHAM CIVIL RIGHTS INSTITUTE

520 16th Street N, Birmingham 205.328.9696, bcri.org PAINTED SHOVEL MERCANTILE

400 41st Street S, Birmingham 205.593.2083; paintedshovel.net RED DOT GALLERY

1001 Stuart Street, Birmingham 205.870.7608, reddotgallery.com SIP N STROKES

522 Cahaba Park Cir, Birmingham 205.408.2836 SOON-BOK LEE SELLERS ART GALLERY – ARTISTS ON THE BLUFF

571 Park Ave., Hoover, 205.637.5946, artistsonthebluff.com SOJOURNS

2017 3rd Ave. N, Birmingham 205.323.5680 SPACE ONE ELEVEN

2409 2nd Ave. N, Birmingham 205.328.0553, spaceoneeleven.org❖

EXCURSIONS 35

Beauty & Wellness Take some time while you are here to pamper yourself. Our spas and salons offer services and treatments to help you live your best life. So, you’re in the mood to pamper yourself while in town, have a special event you are attending or just need to unwind for an hour or two. Then you’ve come to the right town. Get out of your hotel room and make yourself an appointment at one of our many salons and spas in town. You’ve earned it! The very best in skin care, body treatments, massages and

Spa Services

Salons

ESCAPE DAY SPA

CAPELLI SALON

100 Broadway Street, Birmingham 205.414.6062

4647 U.S. Hwy. 280, Birmingham 205.408.0303

AURA SALON SPA

DNL HAIR STUDIO

157 Resource Center Pkwy.,Birmingham 205.980.2504

2229 Arlington Ave. S, Birmingham, 205.933.4525 FRINGE

HALCYON DAYS SALON & SPA

The Summit Birmingham, Birmingham, 205.967.1177 LAVIE MB SPA

2737 U.S. Hwy. 280, Birmingham 205.238.5646 LITTLE FLOWER DAY SPA

2816 Culver Road, Birmingham 205.445.0448 RESULTZ DAY SALON

4248 Cahaba Heights Road, Vestavia Hills, 205.972.8774 SANTA FE DAY SPA

611 Doug Baker Blvd, Ste. 214D, Hoover, 205.408.7221 SPA AT ROSS BRIDGE

4000 Grand Ave., Birmingham Hoover, 205.916.7677 SMART SKIN MED SPA, INC.

32 Church Street, Birmingham 205.871.8707 TONYA JONES SALON SPA

2800 Cahaba Village Plaza, Ste. 280, Birmingham, 205.870.4247

36 EXCURSIONS

2916 Linden Ave., Birmingham 205.802.3888 HAIR IMPRESSIONS SALON AND SPA

614 Montgomery Hwy., Vestavia Hills, 205.824.2446 HAIR REFLECTIONS

The Summit, Birmingham 205.977.7770 JIM OSTROSKY SALON

2032 Kentucky Ave., Vestavia Hills 205.823.8455 OAK STREET HAIR GROUP

125 Oak Street, Birmingham, 205.879.3222 ORBIT SALON

2030 11th Ave. S, Birmingham 205.918.0333 SALON M SQUARED

5299 Valleydale Ridge Road, Birmingham, 205.995.6123 SALON U

2824 Linden Ave., Birmingham 205.870.8708

relaxation treatments are waiting for you at Escape Day Spa in Homewood. The professionals there are amazing and you will leave there feeling and looking like a million dollars. We haven’t forgotten the fellas, either. There are several highend grooming shops ready to take good care of you. On a special diet or health regimen? We’ve got you covered there, too. Enjoy!

SANCTUARY

SPORT CLIPS

1931 29th Ave. S, Birmingham 205.879.4757

1401 Doug Baker Blvd., Ste. 108, Birmingham, 205.408.8090

SCIASCAI’S SALON & BOUTIQUE

TREADWELL BARBERS HAIRSTYLING

2807 18th Street S, Homewood 205.870.5099

2700 Culver Road, Birmingham 205.870.9210

TRIPLE PLATINUM SALON

Fitness

3120 Clairmont Ave. S, Ste. 100, Birmingham, 205.324.9224

For The Men IMAGE IS EVERYTHING BARBERSHOP

AERO JOE

2805 2nd Ave. S, Ste. 100, Birmingham 205.202.5758 BIRMINGHAM YOGA

5406 U.S. Hwy. 280, Birmingham 205.980.3046

605 37th Street S, Birmingham 205.637.4228

MAGIC CITY BARBER SHOP

CONSCIOUS BODY YOGA & MASSAGE THERAPY

1711 4th Ave. N, Birmingham 205.254.9038

2121 14th Ave. S, Birmingham 205.218.3291

MALE ROOM

620 Inverness Corners, Birmingham, 205.995.4285

CORE

4274 Cahaba Heights Court, Ste. 220, Birmingham, 205.969.8989

MR. CLAY’S BARBER SHOP

2502 Rocky Ridge Road, Vestavia Hills, 205.824.4313

EMBODY

3918 Montclair Road, Ste. 100, Birmingham, 205.637.0299 PILATES ON HIGHLAND

2827 Highland Ave. S, Birmingham, 205.323.5961 YOGA CIRCLE

1425 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. S, Birmingham; 205.266.7547 NEIGHBORHOOD BARRE

2808 7th Ave. S, Birmingham 205.396.3006❖

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BEAUTY&WELLNESS

PHOTOS: (LEFT) © ARNE9001 | DREAMSTIME.COM - BACK MASSAGE PHOTO; (BOTTOM) © VALUAVITALY | DREAMSTIME.COM - MAN HAVING MASSAGE IN THE SPA SALON PHOTO

SPOTLIGHT

Gift Cards Available

ESCAPE DAY SPA

tep into your own private retreat. Relax and rejuvenate yourself in a peaceful setting. Unite your mind, body and spirit as you allow yourself a moment to get away from it all – and immerse yourself in tranquility. Escape Day Spa is a familyowned business that believes in the power of healing through touch and meditation. Their guests find rest and solace through thier therapeutic and cosmetic services—all designed to offer the epitome of luxurious comfort. Escape’s staff believes in offering luxurious treatment to those looking for their own private escapes, and seeks to create a deep sense of contentment and relaxation in each guest through their therapeutic treatments. Call or go to their website to make your appointment today and get ready to feel amazing.

SPA SERVICES THERAPUTIC MASSAGE Unwind as you drift away under the experienced hands of our massage therapist. We offer a variety of massages, all designed to offer therapeutic release for your body. BODY TREATMENTS AND WRAPS Experience the pinnacle of an elite day with a deeply soothing body treatment and wrap. We have a variety of therapeutic options available that promise to refresh your skin and surround you in bliss and comfort. FACIALS AND SKIN CARE SERVICES Rejuvenate your skin with our unique European facials that will sweep you away to Europe, customized just for you! DERMASWEEP The DermaSweep MD system is a stateof-the-art, non-invasive exfoliation and skin revitalizing system.

100 Broadway Street Homewood, AL 35209 205.414.6062 theplacetoescape.com

MANICURE AND PEDICURE Few treatments are as relaxing and soothing as a professional manicure and pedicure. We take great pride in pampering our guests, and that includes showing special care to their hands and feet. SPRAY TAN Obtain the look you want with our allnatural, 100% organic spray tanning solution. Our Natural Glow sunless spray tan is a perfect way to look your best while avoiding the sun or tanning beds. HAIR REMOVAL AND WAXING Look and feel your best at all times. We offer a variety of hair removal and waxing treatments designed to give you the smooth, comfortable look you desire. XTREME EYELASH EXTENSIONS For those who want lush, luxurious eyelashes, we proudly offer a revolutionary new treatment: Xtreme Lashes eyelash extentions!

View their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com

EXCURSIONS 37

Main Attractions The Birmingham Metro area offers a broad range of attractions worth getting out of your hotel room.

38 EXCURSIONS

PHOTOS: (OPPOSITE AND TOP) BRENT BOYD

M A I N AT T R A C T I O N S

16th Street Baptist Church National Historic Landmark The 16th 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. Tours by appointment. Donations welcome. 1530 6th Ave. N; 205.251.9402; 16thstreetbaptist.org

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, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Admission. 1631 4th Ave. N; 205.327.9424; jazzhall.com Alabama 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

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slides, water-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. Open seasonally visit website for details.; 205.481.4750; alabamasplash.com 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, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Admission. 2150 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd.; 205.323.6665; ashof.org

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 Ave. N; 205.252.2262; alabamatheatre.com Alabama Veteran’s Memorial Amid peaceful Alabama woodlands, you can peruse the names of Alabamians lost to war. A timeline 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 EXCURSIONS 39

M A I N AT T R A C T I O N S

Alabama Wine Tour 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. Locations: Vizzini Farms Winery, Ozan Vineyard & Cellars and Morgan Creek Vineyards; alabamawinetrail.net 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 the Birmingham area’s “best kept secret.” Aldridge Gardens, Nature and Art in Balance. Open Monday - Sun40 EXCURSIONS

day, 8 a.m - 4:30 p.m. 3530 Lorna Road, Hoover; 205.682.8019; aldridgegardens.com 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 10 a.m., noon and 2 p.m. Special programs for groups by appointment. Admission. 3727 Hwy. 119, Montevallo; 205.665.3535; americanvillage.org Arlington Antebellum Home and Gardens The city’s only remaining 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, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.; Sunday, 1 - 4 p.m. (tickets sold until 3 p.m.) Admission. 331 Cotton Ave. SW; 205.780.5656; arlingtonantebellumhomeandgardens.com  Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum Home to the world’s largest collection of motorcycles, the Barber Museum has more than 1,500 motorcycles, as well as more than 50 vintage Lotus cars. The motorcycles range from 1902 to current-year production. There are common street bikes as well as Gran Prix race machines. The car collection includes a variety of rare and special makes. The museum is located at the 880acre Barber Motorsports Park, which also contains a worldclass, 2.38-mile road course. It features the annual Barber Vintage Festival and the annual Barber Historics. Open daily except major holidays. Check website for hours and information. Admission. 6030 Barber Motorsports

Parkway; 205-699-7275; barbermuseum.org 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 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 Rd; 205.414.3950; bbgardens.org Birmingham Civil Rights Heritage Trail The Birmingham Civil Rights Heritage Trail winds through downtown, marking significant locations along Civil

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PHOTO: BENJAMIN N. SMITH

stories appear on columns with artwork and letters. I-459, exit Liberty Park 100 Overtown Access Road; 205.305.6749; alabamaveterans.org

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 Ave. N and 16th Street. Follow maps on signs. heritagetrail.birminghamal.gov 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 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 ‘50s and early ‘60s. In the final exhibits, the Processional Gallery uses lifesize figures representing all ages and races to portray the “walk to freedom.” Open Tuesday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Sunday, 1 - 5 p.m. Admission. 520 16th St. N, 205.328.9696; bcri.org Birmingham Holocaust Education Center Dedicated to the history and lessons of the Holocaust, the BHEC houses a variety of exhibits and resources. On permanent display is the acclaimed “Darkness into Life” exhibit of photography, art and narratives from 20 Holocaust survivors who settled in Alabama. With more than 2,100 volumes available for loan and on-site study, BHEC also has the largest Holocaust Studies Library in the Southeast. 2222 Arlington Ave S.; 205.795.4176. ; bhamholocausteducation.org

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, PreColumbian 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 Renaissance 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, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Sunday, noon - 5 p.m. Donations welcome. 2000 Rev. Abraham Woods, Jr. Blvd.; 205.254.2565; artsbma.org 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, 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.; Wednesday Saturday, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Sunday, 2 - 6 p.m. 2100 Park Place; 205.226.3600; bplonline.org Birmingham Race Course A spacious pari-mutuel racing facility, the Birmingham Race Course is open year-round. Patrons enjoy live greyhound racing and simulcast events from the country’s top thor-

The Birmingham Civil Rights District Declared a National Monument The Birmingham Civil Rights District was declared as a national monument by outgoing President Barack Obama in early January. The monument will include lesser-known portions of the Historic Birmingham Civil Rights District, such as the A.G. Gaston Motel, the Birmingham headquarters for Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. There King planned the march on Washington, held numerous press conferences and wrote portions of “I Have a Dream” speech. The monument will also include the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, Bethel Baptist Church,the Colored Masonic Temple, St. Paul United Methodist Church and a portion of the 4th Avenue Business District. The more well-known civil rights sites will anchor the monument, such as the 16th Street Baptist Church, now infamous for a Sunday-morning bombing that killed four little girls; and Kelly Ingram Park where peaceful protestors including children were arrested and met by highpressure hoses and police attack dogs as they protested segregation.

M A I N AT T R A C T I O N S

Birmingham Zoo 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 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, wilde42 EXCURSIONS

beest, zebras and more. Concessions and dining on site. Open daily 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Extended hours for special events. Admission. 2630 Cahaba Road; 205.879.0409; birminghamzoo.com 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 53 million homes in 32 countries. Tours by appointment only. 5817 Old Leeds Road Irondale; 205.271.2900; ewtn.com

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 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 - Friday, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Saturday, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Donations welcome. 1919 9th St., Calera; 205.668.3435; hodrrm.org 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 haunt-

ed 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 Ave N. The Lyric Theatre The Lyric is the newest theater in downtown Birmingham. Built in 1914 the theater was used for vaudeville shows. The theater was vacant from 1970 until renovations were able to start in 2015 with the help of fundraising from Light Up the Lyric. The Lyric opened in January 2016 with a launch of three shows. The Lyric is primarily for live performances but also serves as a wedding and event venue. Check online for event schedule.  McWane Science Center Four floors of hands-on exhibits and an IMAX Dome

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PHOTOS: GREATER BIRMINGHAM CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

oughbred 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 11 a.m. - 1 a.m. 1000 John Rogers Drive; 205.838.7500; birminghamracecourse.com

SPOTLIGHT

MCWANE SCIENCE CENTER

PHOTO:

n 1998, a stimulating and interactive science museum opened its doors in the heart of downtown Birmingham. McWane Science Center is housed in the historic and refurbished Loveman’s department store building in Birmingham’s revitalization district. McWane Science Center has welcomed millions of visitors—from ages 1 to 100—year-round to see, to hear, to touch and to experience the wonder of science in one of the South’s most unique venues. Four floors of interactive exhibits celebrate science and wonder—you can play tunes with your feet on the giant piano, learn about gravity with a daring ride on the High Cycle or pet the sharks and stingrays in the Shark & Ray Touch Tank—there is a new discovery around every corner.

The adventure intensifies in the IMAX® Dome Theater, where wideeyed visitors experience the sights and sounds of breathtaking films on a 5-story-tall screen surrounded by 3 tons of high-intensity speakers. McWane’s IMAX® Dome Theatre shows features covering a variety of topics ranging from great white shark to Tornado Alley, as well as special event Hollywood hits. McWane Science Center can also be a wonderful backdrop for a group of 10-500+, day or night. With in-house catering and an experienced special 205.714.8300 200 19th Street North Birmingham, AL mcwane.org mcwane-science-center mcwane

events team to assist with every detail, McWane Science Center offers unique but functional event spaces perfect for your business luncheon, meeting, employee appreciation day, wedding reception or even an overnight adventure. For 19 years, McWane Science Center has stayed true to its mission—to change lives through science and wonder. As a cornerstone of the downtown community, McWane opens its doors to young and old alike for laughter, learning and an experience like no other.

Saturday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sunday 12 p.m. - 6 p.m. Weekdays 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. See their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com

EXCURSIONS 43

M A I N AT T R A C T I O N S

Mercedes-Benz US International Visitors Center 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 44 EXCURSIONS

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 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Admission for factory tours (available by reservation only) 11 Mercedes Drive, Vance; 205.507.2252; mbusi.com Negro Southern League Museum This interactive facility tells the story of the Birmingham Black Barons and other baseball greats who played at Birmingham’s Rickwood Field, the oldest ballpark in the country. Displays include the oldest Negro League trophy, along with uniforms and artifacts. See their website for hours and tour information. Located at Regions Field on

the corner of 1st Ave S and 16th S; 205.581.3040 birminghamnslm.org 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 18hole 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, 7 a.m. - 5 p.m. Admission. 200 Terrace Drive, Pelham; 205.620.2520; alapark.com/oakmountain 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, 8 a.m - 5:30 p.m; Saturday 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. 1509 3rd Ave. S.; 205.251.3314; peanutdepot.com Pepper Place Saturday Market (seasonal) April – December The Pepper Place Saturday Market is a much-anticipated 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 Ave S.; 205.802.2100 pepperplacemarket.com

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PHOTO: BRENT BOYD

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 Touch Tank, and check out the Zoetrope for visual illusions of motion from still pictures. Open Monday Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Sunday, noon - 6 p.m. Admission. 200 19th Street N; 205.714.8300; mcwane.org

SPOTLIGHT

VULCAN PARK AND MUSEUM ®

PHOTOS: (RIGHT) COLIN PETERSON PHOTOGRAPHY; (LEFT) GINNARD ARCHIBALD PHOTO:

trip to Vulcan Park and Museum is a must for every visitor to the Birmingham region—in fact, it’s the best place to get started. In addition to seeing the iconic colossal statue, visitors gain an understanding of the region’s history and culture, and can learn more about other cultural, recreational and entertainment offerings at an onsite Visitor Information Center managed by the Greater Birmingham Convention and Visitors Bureau. Vulcan is the world’s largest cast iron statue and is considered one of the most memorable works of civic art in the United States. Created by Italian artist Giuseppe Moretti, Vulcan was cast from local iron to represent the state of Alabama at the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair. Vulcan has overlooked Alabama’s largest city from atop Red Mountain since a 1930s WPA project created his permanent home and namesake park. After decades of exposure to the elements, by the 90s, the 50-ton statue was in desperate need of repair. Recognizing Vulcan’s importance to the region’s history and persona, community leaders formed Vulcan Park Foundation, a nonprofit organization which oversaw a $16 million project that returned the statue to his 1904 grandeur. The meticulous restoration of Vulcan and his 124’ sandstone pedestal, completed in 2004, received numerous awards including the highest honor awarded by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Embracing the personality of the community Vulcan symbolizes, the park grounds and museum offer a dynamic edu-taining experience.

for Birmingham

Alabama’s rich industrial history, the diverse cultures that settled and built the community, and the story of Vulcan are recounted in both indoor and outdoor exhibits. Vulcan’s park grounds and observation tower offer breathtaking views of downtown and the surrounding areas— a great introduction to Birmingham, day or night. Visit Vulcan and learn the fascinating history that has made him the iconic symbol of our city and why he has stood for Birmingham for more than a century and counting.

1701 Valley View Drive Birmingham, AL 35209 visitvulcan.com @ visitvulcan Museum Hours: Monday - Sunday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Observation Tower Hours: Monday - Sunday 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. See their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com

EXCURSIONS 45

Rickwood Field Built in 1910, Rickwood Field is America’s oldest 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. The authenticity of Rickwood is being carefully preserved by the Friends of Rickwood Field, a nonprofit organization devoted to the restoration and upkeep of the historic ball field. Open Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Check events schedule for expanded hours. 1137 2nd Ave. W.; 205.458.8161; rickwood.com 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 46 EXCURSIONS

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, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.; Sunday, noon - 4 p.m. Donations welcome. 20 32nd Street N; 205.324.1911; slossfurnaces.com 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, 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Admission. 4343 73rd Street

N; 205.833.8226; southernmuseumofflight.org 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 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 7 a.m. - sunset. Admission. 12632 Confederate Pkwy., McCalla; 205.477.5711; tannehill.org

 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 - Sunday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Obervation Tower open Monday - Sunday 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. Admission. 1701 Valley View Drive; 205.933.1409; visitvulcan.com ❖

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PHOTOS: (LEFT) BRENT BOYD; (RIGHT) GINNARD ARCHIBALD PHOTO:

M A I N AT T R A C T I O N S

SPOTLIGHT

BARBER VINTAGE MOTORSPORTS MUSEUM

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otorcycles are art, with each piece being uniquely exquisite in its styling, mechanics and capabilities. Birmingham native and Porsche racer George Barber recognized these intrinsic qualities in motorcycles. He began collecting them in 1988. Six years later, he established the Barber

Vintage Motorsports Museum as a 501(c)3 nonprofit foundation and helped turn Birmingham into a global destination. Today, this 228,650-squarefoot museum is home to an incredible collection of motorcycles, rare automobiles, vintage Lotus cars and more. The Barber Museum continues to grow, along with its motorcycle collection, which is now considered the largest in the world. During 2017, the museum is opening additional exhibits for guests to enjoy. The five-story Barber Museum is located at the 880-acre Barber Motorsports Park. The park itself is what a golf course might look like if you added to it a 2.38-mile road course, art, sculptures, water features, bridges and gardens. Visitors to the museum can see much of this beauty through the plateglass windows along the perimeter of every floor. Whether the Barber Museum is exercising its vehicles on the Barber Road Course, or a race or driving school is taking place, guests of the museum can see and hear cars or

motorcycles in action on most days of the year. The museum, road course, and park especially come alive each May, with vintage racecars at Barber Historics, and each October, with vintage motorcycles at the Barber Vintage Festival. Whatever the occasion, the Barber Museum is always a uniquely special place to be. 205.699.7275 6030 Barber Motorsports Pkwy. Leeds, Alabama barbermuseum.org barbermuseum Saturday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday 12 p.m. - 5 p.m. Weekdays 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. See their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.COM to view their Facebook page, get directions, hours, link to their website and more.

EXCURSIONS 47

Alabama Theatre 1817 3rd Ave. N; 205.252-2262; alabamatheatre.com Known as â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Showplace of the South,â&#x20AC;? The Alabama Theatre is located in the heart of downtown Birmingham Alabama on 3rd Avenue N. Since 1927 the Alabama Theatre has been the home to shows and performances ranging from movies, concerts, beauty pageants, silent films and even the Mickey Mouse Club! This beautiful theatre is an amazing piece of history that defies the imagination and must be experienced to be truly appreciated. 48 EXCURSIONS

Performing Arts

No longer an industrial giant, Birmingham’s new “magic” is in the thriving arts community. by H E AT H E R A DA M S

PHOTO: BILLY BROWN

irmingham was nicknamed “The Magic City” at the turn of the 20th century due to its almost overnight emergence as a powerhouse in steel and iron manufacturing. The city thrived on the sudden influx of people and commerce. As with any new and bustling city, it did not take long for an active community of arts to form and grow strong. The steel and iron business may have faded, but although Birmingham is no longer an epicenter of the industrial movement, it has established itself as a quite a leader in the realm of visual and performing arts. And while the nickname, “The Magic City,” originally described Birmingham’s industrial prowess, it has come to accurately describe the city’s long-reaching influence on the arts. Merriam-Webster lists “magic” as a noun described as “an extraordinary power of influence seemingly from a supernatural source,” as well as “something that seems to cast a spell.” Birmingham does indeed cast a spell on patrons of the arts, ranging from theatre to music to film. Entranced audiences will have the chance to be anything, anywhere they had ever dreamed. Escape to Egypt through Opera Birmingham’s performance of Aida or to France through the Alabama Ballet’s adaptation of Giselle. Or unearth the treasures of Go mobile at EXCURSIONSGO.com

home as you visit the Alabama Symphony Orchestra and the Virginia Samford Theatre, Birmingham staples that date back to the 1920s. If you find yourself drawn to independent arts movements, take a trip through the Theatre District in downtown. Here

you will find the Red Mountain Theatre, Terrific New Theatre and the Theatre Downtown, each of which boasts origins from an almost phoenix-style rising of new art from the beloved traditions of the past. Wander through the Sidewalk Moving Pictures Festival or

come to the Cabaret. For a more mainstream show, take a drive south of Birmingham and enjoy the Verizon Wireless Music Center which has hosted acts ranging from Rascal Flatts to Kings of Leon and the Dave Matthews Band. Moreover, in Birmingham, the arts form a true community with each guild and theatre enmeshing themselves within the cultural and educational spheres of the city. The Alys Robinson Stephens Performing Arts Center is located on the campus of the University of Alabama at Birmingham. The Birmingham Festival Theatre performed its first original piece on the campus of Birmingham-Southern College, whose stage mirrors that of William Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, as the Alabama Ballet hosts their four annual productions at Wright Theatre on the campus of Samford University. And the Library Theatre is aptly titled, since it is housed inside the Hoover Public Library. The Virginia Samford Theatre and the Red Mountain Theatre both have intertwined past lives with Birmingham’s famous “Town and Gown” productions, while the Alabama Symphony Orchestra answered the city’s need for music after World War II. A guided tour through Birmingham’s performing arts venues will certainly make anyone a believer in the magic this city has to offer. Those who know choose Birmingham for visual and performing arts. EXCURSIONS 49

PERFORMINGARTS

Alabama Ballet 2726 1st Ave. S; 205.322.4300; alabamaballet.org Alabama Ballet seeks to promote and foster the development of classical and contemporary ballet through high-quality education and community outreach. They offer a variety of classes for all ages. Under the direction of Tracey Alvey, this company of professional dancers presents four full-length productions annually.

Alabama Symphony Orchestra 3621 6th Ave. S; 205.975.2787; alabamasymphony.org 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, giving 190 performances a year.

Alys Robinson Stephens Performing Arts Center 1200 10th Ave. S; 205.975.2787 or alysstephens.org The trademark of UAB’s Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center is diversity—diverse performances and diverse audiences. From classical, pop, jazz and world beat music to dance, comedy, theater and family entertainment, the center welcomes the entire community into the magical realm of performing arts.

Birmingham Children’s Theatre 2130 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd N; 205.458.8181; bct123.org Birmingham Children’s Theatre was founded in 1946. Since that time, it has become one of America’s largest professional theatres for young 50 EXCURSIONS

audiences and now operates in a three theatre complex at the Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex. The theatre produces eight shows shows seasonally, four of which tour, giving the theatre a combined audience of over 200,000 each year.

by the City of Hoover and the Friends of the Hoover Public Library. The theatre also features the work of local artists in their gallery.

Birmingham Festival Theatre

Northern Alabama’s only professional, regional opera company, Opera Birmingham has entertained and informed audiences in 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.

1901 11th Ave. S; 205.933.2383; bftonline.org Founded in 1972, Birmingham Festival Theatre is the oldest theatre in Birmingham producing contemporary and classic theatre. It is managed by an all-volunteer board of directors. Since its founding, BFT has staged more than 200 productions—involving more than 50 directors, almost 1,000 actors and 500 crew people—attended by almost 100,000 audience members.

The Library Theatre 200 Municipal Drive, Hoover, Al; 205.444.7888; thelibrarytheatre.com The Library Theatre is a professional venue bringing world-class entertainment to an intimate setting in the heart of Hoover. The Library Theatre is sponsored in part

Opera Birmingham 3601 6th Ave. S; 205.322.6737; operabirmingham.org

Red Mountain Theatre Company 301 19th Street S; 205.324.2424; redmountaintheatre.org Red Mountain Theatre Company is a nonprofit professional theatre organization with an emphasis on musical theatre. Red Mountain Theatre Company‘s season begins in September and runs through July each year with a wide variety of well-known musicals.

Terrific New Theatre 2821 2nd Ave. S; 205.328.0868; terrificnewtheatre.com Founded by Steve Stella and Carl Stewart in 1986, Terrific New Theatre (TNT) is the off-Broadway of Birmingham. Featuring avant garde performances, TNT thrills audiences with performances that aren’t seen anywhere else in town. Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights at 8 pm. Cash or checks only.

Theatre Downtown 2410 5th Ave. South; 205.565.8838; theatredowntown.org Theatre Downtown was founded in 2006 and provides the city of Birmingham with cutting-edge contemporary theatre and a host of Alabama and Southeastern premieres. A traveling troupe, Theatre Downtown performs throughout the Birmingham area in a variety of locations.

Verizon Wireless Music Center 1000 Amphitheatre Road; 205.985.0703 ; theoakmountaintainamphitheater.com Each year between April and October, some of the world’s top musicians perform in the beautiful outdoor arena, formerly known as Oak Mountain Amphitheatre. Fee varies with each performance. Now a LiveNation venue, located just south of the city, Highway 119 exit off I-65.

Virginia Samford Theatre 1116 26th Street S; 205.251.1206; virginiasamfordtheatre.org The Virginia Samford Theatre presents a wide variety of musicals. The charming historic theater with its parkside setting is located on Birmingham’s southside and has a lovely outdoor courtyard. Season begins each August.❖

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The Lyric Theatre 1817 3rd Ave. N, 205.252.2262; lightupthelyric.com The Lyric was once a fine performing arts theater which it promises to be again. Built in 1914 and restored in 2015, the theater re-opened its doors again in January 2016. Located in downtown Birmingham, The Lyric hopes to make the theater district of Birmingham live again. The Lyric holds live performaces as well as wedding and events. The renovation was still underway at the time this photo was taken. photograph by Brent Boyd

EXCURSIONS 51

Love at First Bite

ne of the best kept secrets about Birmingham is its dining. From casual dives to some of the country’s best fine dining, your culinary experience in the Magic City will be one to write home about—and keep you coming back! It’s no surprise to locals that Birmingham has become a destination for foodies from the world over. Our award-winning chefs and headline-making restaurants are reason enough to visit. Our newest addition to the restaurant scene in Birmingham is Sky Castle Gastrolounge. They are located in Lakeview and are creating buzz with their retro appearance and progressive Southern cuisine. For a unique experience, visit the renovated gas station that is now home to The Filling Station, a restaurant that focuses on pizza and pasta offerings. While in the Five Points area, try The J. Clyde for dinner and a beer in their Biergarten. The J. Clyde is the only place in Alabama that serves cask-conditioned ales with traditional British Beer Engines. Despite the name, Mudtown is a favorite of the locals for good food, from burgers to seafood and pasta, but the original sandwiches are the main attraction. If upscale dining is up your alley, Village Tavern at The Summit

52 EXCURSIONS

is the place for you. A relaxed atmosphere paired with great steaks, fish, burgers and pizza makes for a great dining experience. For you steak-lovers out there, Ruth’s Chris Steak House in the Embassy Suites in Homewood is a must try. Voted “Best Steak” by the Birmingham News, Ruth’s Chris is the place to go for a mouth-watering meal. Shula’s Steak House, located inside the Hyatt Regency/Wynfrey Hotel in Hoover, also boasts great steaks and fresh seafood. Grille 29 is the hottest new place in town for steak and seafood in the area, as well as other menu treats. The location, modeled after the original in Huntsville, is located at Brookwood Village. On the casual side, The Ridge is a popular new family-dining location. The food is distinctly American, ranging from burgers and sandwiches to pasta, steak and seafood. Cantina Tortilla Grill is a top pick latin-inspired dishes. Also in Lakeview, Tin Roof is always rocking and offers freshly-made dishes in an open air environment that is designed for fun and frolic. For great pizza, Slice Pizza & Brew is a great spot to grab a slice and a craft beer. Downtown there is Roque Tavern with an inventive menu and live music. No matter what you’re craving, there is something for all tastes!

PHOTO:

Birmingham’s culinary hot spots are sure to delight.

PHOTO:

Good Food, Live Music, Great Fun.

2709 7th Ave S, Birmingham, AL TinRoofBirmingham.com â&#x20AC;¢ @TinRoofBHam

LOCALDINING

Taste the Flavors of Birmingham SOUTHSIDE AND DOWNTOWN 5 POINT PUBLIC HOUSE OYSTER BAR

1210 20th Street S 205.918.0726

CANTINA LAREDO

2301 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N 205.502.0915 CANTINA TORTILLA GRILL

2901 2nd Ave. S, Ste. 110 205.323.6980

DELTA BLUES HOT TAMALES

1313 Cobb Lane S 205.502.7298

GREEN ACRES CAFÉ

2724 29th Ave. N 205.328.8099

MAKARIOS KABOBS & GRILL

940 20th Street S 205.731.7414 OCEAN

1218 20th Street S 205.933.0999 POST OFFICE PIES

209 41st Street S 205.599.9900

ROGUE TAVERN

2312 2nd Ave. N 205.202.4151

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SAW’S SOUL KITCHEN

215 41st Street S 205.591.1409

SKY CASTLE GASTRO LOUNGE

2808 7th Ave. S 205.578.6080

SLICE PIZZA & BREW

725 29th Street S 205.715.9300 THE J. CLYDE

1312 Cobb Lane 205.939.1312 TIN ROOF

2709 7th Ave. S 205.323.4356 WASABI JUAN’S

4120 3rd Ave. S 205.703.8891

808 SOUTH - A BISTRO

808 20th Street S 205.933.9000

AL’S DELI & GRILL

1629 10th Ave. S 205.939.4278

ATRIUM CAFÉ IN SHERATON HOTEL

2101 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. 205.307.3005 AVERY’S CAFE

1901 6th Ave. N 205.250.9907

BABALU TACOS & TAPAS

2808 7th Ave. S, Ste. 117 205.297.0200 BAMBOO ON 2ND

2212 2nd Ave. N 205.703.0551

BLACK MARKET BAR & GRILL

1035 20th Street S 205.933.8035

BUCK MULLIGAN’S IRISH PUB

2011 Highland Ave. S 205.933.3999 CAFE DUPONT

113 20th Street N 205.322.1282 CARLILE’S BARBECUE

3511 6th Ave. S 205.254.9266

CARRIGAN’S PUBLIC HOUSE

BETTOLA

2901 2nd Ave. S, Ste. 150 205.731.6499 BIRMINGHAM BREADWORKS

2408 7th Ave. S 205.933.7517 BISTRO 218

218 20th Street N 205.983.7999

2430 Morris Ave. 205.440.2430

CASEY’S SPORTS GRILL

2101 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. 205.307.5000 CASHIO’S MEATBALL MARKET

728 29th Street S 205.578.6090

CENTURY RESTAURANT & BAR

BOGUE’S

3120 Clairmont Ave., Ste. 110 205.254.9780 BOTTEGA RESTAURANT AND CAFE

2240 Highland Ave. S 205.939.1000 BOTTLE AND BONE

2311 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N, Ste. 200, 205.538.7106 BRICK & TIN RESTAURANT

214 20th Street N 205.297.8636

2021 Park Place 205.458.9611 CHAN LEE’S

1901 6th Ave. N, # 256 205.252.2426 CHEZ FONFON

2007 11th Ave S, Birmingham 205.939.3221 CHINA MOON

3310 Clairmont Ave S, 205.324.2332

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LOCALDINING FULL MOON BAR.B.QUE

CHRIS Z’S

525 25th Street S 205.324.1007

2808 University Blvd, 205.458.1007 DAWSON’S BURGERS, WINGS & FRIES

1617 4th Ave N, 205.324.3342

GABLE SQUARE SALOON & GAMES

GABRIELLA’S RESTAURANT

HOT AND HOT FISH CLUB

3324 Clairmont Ave. S 205.324.5896

HOT BOX

2007 University Blvd. 205.328.2007

INSOMNIA COOKIES

3921 1st Ave N 205.592.9941

IRON CITY BIRMINGHAM

2201 3rd Ave N 205.251.6500

DREAMLAND BAR-B-QUE

2220 Highland Ave. S 205.939.5551

GALLEY AND GARDEN

EDGAR’S OLD STYLE BAKERY -

505 20th Street N 205.987.0790

GIUSEPPE’S CAFE AND EXPRESSO BAR

925 8th Street S 205.324.2626

GOLDEN RULE BARBECUE

EL BARRIO MEXICAN RESTAURANT

2211 2nd Ave N 205.868.3737

1901 6th Ave. N, Ste. 263 205.801.9600

GOLDEN TEMPLE GROCERY, CAFE AND YOGA CENTER

FANCY’S ON 5TH

2180 11th Court S 205.933.5474 4036 5th Ave. S 205.224.5632 1919 11th Ave. S 877.632.6654

513 22nd Street S 205.202.5483

JACK BROWN’S BEER & BURGER JOINT

2811 7th Ave. S 205.203.4512

430 41st Street S 205.777.3662

1901 11th Ave S 205.933.6333

FORMAGGIO’S ITALIAN BISTRO

GUS’S HOT DOGS

1713 10th Ave. S 205.933.7555

1915 4th Ave N 205.251.4540

Five Points South 1908 11th Ave. S 205.320.1060

FEAST & FOREST

HATTIE B’S HOT CHICKEN

112 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N 205.322.6014

2808 7th Ave S 205.578.6018

212 24th Street N 205.920.1862

3811 Clairmont Ave. S 205.591.1119

2011 11th Ave. S 205.939.1400

DEEP DISH PIZZA AND ITALIAN HOUSE

1427 14th Ave S, Birmingham 205.933.2133

HIGHLANDS BAR & GRILL

LITTLE SAVANNAH RESTAURANT AND BAR

803 9th Court S 205.251.0960

317 17th Street N 205.983.7249

3000 Meadow Lake Dr., 205.582.2156

ELI’S JERUSALEM GRILL

4673 Hwy 280 205.637.3658

JIM ‘N NICK’S BAR B Q .

JOHN’S CITY DINER

LITTLE ITALY’S PIZZA & PINTS

1924 11th Ave S 205.224.5775

LOS AMIGOS MEXICAN RESTAURANT

LUCY’S COFFEE & TEA

M & M BARBECUE & CAFETERIA

MAGIC CITY GRILLE

MAGIC WOK

401 19th Street S 205.327.5000 MAGNOLIA BBQ & FISH

1709 4th Ave N 205.704.4378 MAKI FRESH

420 20th Street N, Ste. 100A 205.458.4040 MARILYN’S DELI & DOGS

715 18th St. N 205.324.3354

MATTHEW’S BAR & GRILL

2208 Morris Ave. 205.862.6261

Checked in yet?

ULTIMATE

SPORTS LODGE BEST KITCHEN IN SPORTS

TWIN PEAKS HOOVER 4330 Creekside Ave Hoover, AL 35244 (205) 203-9461

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TWIN PEAKS PENSACOLA TWIN PEAKS MONTGOMERY 6814 Eastchase Pkwy 4952 Bayou Blvd Montgomery, AL 36117 Pensacola, FL 32503 (334) 513-1244 (850) 696-6242

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EXCURSIONS 55

LOCALDINING

MCALISTER’S GOURMET DELI

1801 4th Ave S 205.933.2828

MELLOW MUSHROOM

1200 20th Street S, Ste. 100 205.212.9420 MELT RESTAURANT

Cantina Laredo Birmingham UPTOWN BIRMINGHAM 2301 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd North Birmingham AL 35203 205.502.0915 cantinalaredo.com @CantinaLaredoBirmingham

@CantinaBHM

4105 4th Ave. S 205.790.7951 MIA LUNA

728 29th Street S 205.383.2160 MILO’S HAMBURGERS

401 19th Street S, Ste. 130 205.322.6456 MOE’S ORIGINAL BBQ

731 29th Street S 205.252.5888

MOE’S SOUTHWEST GRILL – UAB

1801 4th Ave S, Suite 109 205.250.6355 MOJO’S PUB & GRILL

2801 7th Ave. S 205.703.0933

MUGSHOTS GRILL AND BAR

2311 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd. N, Ste. 100, 205.933.7575 NELSON BROTHERS CAFE

314 17th Street N 205.254.9098

NEW CHINA TOWN RESTAURANT

Experience modern Mexican food in a sophisticated, vibrant atmosphere at Cantina Laredo. Enjoy the rooftop deck and savor fresh seafood, enchiladas and more with sauces from scratch. A visit to Cantina Laredo is not complete without sipping a Casa Rita. Sip the signature margarita made from fresh lime juice and the finest tequila. Brunch is served every Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m, complete with mimosas and bloody marys. For dinner, drinks, lunch, or Sunday brunch, visit Cantina Laredo at Uptown Birmingham. Cantina Laredo also has private dining and a full service catering staff. HOURS OF OPERATION

Sunday: 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday – Thursday: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. Happy Hour: Monday - Friday 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. See their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com

On the Menu Top Shelf Guacamole - Made fresh at your table, serves two to four Ensalada De Mango Y Pollo - Chicken and mango with jicama, seasoned pumpkin seeds, grapes, mint and queso fresco with honey vinaigrette Chipotle Pollo Fajitas - Chicken fajitas topped with chipotle-wine sauce, bacon, mushrooms and melted monterey jack cheese Tacos De Barbacoa - Slow-roasted brisket with marinated onions, monterey jack cheese and cilantro

56 EXCURSIONS

1020 20th Street S 205.251.2373 NEWK’S EATERY

611 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. S 205.323.0992 NIKI’S DOWNTOWN CAFE

PIT BAR-B-Q THE NUMBER ONE

2820 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd N 205.328.1515 PLANET SMOOTHIE

1701 1st Ave S 205.328.4791

PURPLE ONION DELI & GRILL

1717 10th Ave S 205.933.2424

RANELLI’S DELI & CAFE

1225 20th Street S 205.933.6983

REVELATOR COFFEE COMPANY

1826 3rd Ave. N RIB IT UP

830 1st Ave. N 205.328.7427 ROJO

2921 Highland Ave. S 205.328.4733 SAIGON NOODLE AVONDALE

3719 3rd Ave s 205.986.8898

SARRIS RESTAURANT

600 31st Street N 205.252.7357 SHIKI

300 Hailman Hill E 205.783.5222 SILVERTRON CAFÉ

3813 Clairmont Ave. S 205.591.3707 SITAR INDIAN RESTAURANT

705 20th Street S 205.323.6500

SOL’S SANDWICH SHOP & DELI

1101 2nd Ave. N 205.251.1972

2 20th Street N, Ste. 120 205.244.7657

OCTANE

1918 11th Ave. S 205.324.1928

O’HENRY’S COFFEES

2205 3rd Ave. S, 205.745.3990

ON TAP SPORTS CAFE . LAKEVIEW

1017 20th St. S, Birmingham 205.582.9993

ORIGINAL PANCAKE HOUSE

2226 Highland Ave. S 205.939.3805

OSCAR’S AT THE MUSEUM

121 20th Street N 205.322.9909

OVENBIRD

328 12th Street S 205.324.2911,

PARAMOUNT

2301 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N, Ste. 100, 205.588.8333

PITA LOCO

612 22nd Street S 205.322.3330

PITA STOP CAFE BAR & GRILL

2304 10th Terrace S 205.322.3220

SURIN WEST

2211 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd., N 205.545.5076 1901 6th Ave. N Ste. 295 205.323.1198 737 29th Street S 205.320.1225, 1931 11th Ave. S 205.933.8837

2000 Rev. Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd. 205.254.2755 2810 3rd Ave. S 205.957.6686 200 20th Street N 205.328.1515 2000 2nd Ave. N 205.252.4899 1106 12th Street S 205.328.2749

SWEET TEA RESTAURANT T-BONES

TAJ INDIA

TAU POCO

TED’S RESTAURANT

TEXAS DE BRAZIL

THE FISH MARKET RESTAURANT

THE GARAGE

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LOCALDINING

THE FILLING STATION CAFE & BAR

or more than forty years, the building which now houses The Filling Station in the Crestwood neighborhood of Birmingham, was a fullservice gas station â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the kind where they actually pumped your gas for you and cleaned your windshield. Starting in 2015, the chef and his staff at The Filling Station now pump out a broad range of appetizers, handmade pizzas and calzones, pasta dishes and sandwiches that are sure to satisfy any craving you have. The old

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service bays are now filled with tables and a bar. Behind the bar is an intricate system of taps that deliver cold locally and internationally brewed beers without any temperature loss from the keg. The Filling Station is perfect to visit anytime of the year, but when the weather is mild, the garage doors are open and patrons enjoy the expansive patio. 5524 Crestwood Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35222 205.592.3455 @thefillingstationbham

Sports fans appreciate the multitude of HDTV screens to keep them in tune with their favorite teams. In case you are the nostalgic type, there is even a vintage gas station pumpâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;but the only fuel you get here now is the fantastic food, fine drinks and fun folks.

Sunday - Wednesday: 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Thursday - Saturday: 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. View their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com

EXCURSIONS 57

THE GRILL AT IRON CITY

1930 Edwards Lake Road 205.661.0904

THE RED CAT COFFEEHOUSE

GOLDEN RULE BARBECUE TRUSSVILLE

2901 2nd Ave. S, Ste. 120 205.616.8450 T O R T I L L A

G R I L L

Cantina Tortilla Grill 2901 2nd Avenue South, Ste. 110, Birmingham, AL 205.323.6980; cantinabirmingham.com

THE SOUTHERN KITCHEN AND BAR

2301 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N, Ste. 1C, 205.224.4839 THE WINE LOFT

2200 1st Ave. N 205.323.8228

TODD ENGLISH P.U.B.

2221 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N 205.307.3700 TRATTORIA CENTRALE

207A 20th Street N 205.202.5612

WALL STREET DELI - KIRKLIN CLINIC

535 21st Street S 205.323.7966

WINGS AROUND THE CLOCK

Fresh food. More fun. That’s the Cantina way. HOURS OF OPERATION

Monday – Thursday: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.; Friday: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.; Saturday: 12 p.m. – 9 p.m. See their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com

On the Menu Cilantro Chicken - Cilantro-marinated grilled chicken breast with roasted corn, queso fresco, poblano peppers, cilantro & saffron rice El Argentino Gaucho Steak - Churrasco, arugula, grilled onions, cilantro mayo, melted chihuahua cheese & roasted tomatoes

58 EXCURSIONS

HABANERO’S MEXICAN GRILL

835 Odum Road, Ste. 115 205.608.2168

HABANERO’S MEXICAN GRILL

1477 Gadsden Hwy., Ste 126 205.655.7380

JALISCO MEXICAN RESTAURANTE

325 Walker Chapel Plaza 205.849.2137

JIM DEERMAN’S BARBEQUE

1644 Forestdale Plaza 205.798.3565

JIM N NICK’S BAR B Q .

WOODLAWN CYCLE CAFE

JIM N NICK’S BAR B Q TRUSSVILLE

URBAN STANDARD

1660 Gadsden Hwy 205.661.3100

YEHMAN CARRIBBEAN CUISINE

312 Main Street 205.655.8248

1623 4th Ave. N 205.323.3120

Join them each week for half-price specialty drinks and tapas on Tapas and Tequila Tuesday and at the bar for a front row view of the game.

GYROS CAFÉ

5614 Chalkville Road 205.856.2424

915 Odum Road 205.608.3315

2320 2nd Ave. N 205.250.8200

The dining room in the Martin Biscuit Co. location is the perfect space to unwind, and from their famous tacos to the inventive daily specials, their menu options are sure to satisfy every palette.

120 South Chalkville Road 205.655.4849

801 20th Street S 205.581.8088 5530 1st Ave. S 205.867.5309

Cantina Tortilla Grill has been serving up made-fresh-daily Mexican food in a laid back, fun atmosphere for more than 11 years. Whether you’re enjoying a Prickly Pear Margarita or any of our celebrated tacos, you’ll find a simple yet distinctive culinary experience every time you visit.

EL CAZADOR

513 22nd Street S 205.202.5483

YO’ MAMA’S RESTAURANT & CATERING

2328 2nd Ave N 205.957.6545

JOEL’S RESTAURANT

KONOMI

5870 Trussville Crossings Blvd, 205.661.1821 LONE STAR STEAKHOUSE & SALOON

YOUR PIE

4720 Norrel Drive, Trussville 205.661.9339

ZOE’S KITCHEN

604 Fieldstown Rd, Gardendale 205.608.0050

2311 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N 205.202.5598 1819 5th Ave. N 205.252.5200

FULTONDALE, GARDENDALE, NORTHWEST, TRUSSVILLE CAFE ON MAIN

218 Main Street, Ste. 110 205.655.0330 CAJUN STEAMER BAR AND GRILL

5071 Pinnacle Square 205.655.6008 CHINA KITCHEN

437 Caldwell Dr, Warrior 205.647.7055 CHINA ONE

MILO’S HAMBURGERS -

MILO’S HAMBURGERS - TRUSSVILLE

5887 Trussville Crossing Pkwy 205.661.2100 MING’S GARDEN

1046 Main St, Gardendale 205.631.7746 MOE’S SOUTHWEST GRILL

5870 Trussville Crossing Blvd, 205.655.9669 NEIGHBORHOOD SPORTS GRILLE

1423 Gadsden Hwy., Ste. 131 205.655.1018 ON TAP SPORTS CAFÉ

1200 Main Street 205.745-4888

PALACE CHINESE RESTAURANT

357 Walker Chapel Plaza, Fultondale 205.849.9111

5899 Trussville Crossing Pkwy, Suite 105, Trussville

CHOCOLATE BISCUIT TEA ROOM

205.661.1668

335 Main St, Trussville 205.655.0119 COSTA’S MEDITERRANEAN CAFE

PASQUALE’S PIZZA & PASTA

215 Fieldstown Rd, Gardendale 205.631.5972

5891 Trussville Crossings Pkwy. 205.655.9779

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LOCALDINING

SKY CASTLE

PHOTOS: ANDI RICE PHOTO:

ky Castle, located in Lakeview, is your Birmingham hub for all things EATS, DRINKS and SPORTS. Sky Castle offers a classic twist on American eats, craft cocktails and endless walls of crystal clear TVs ensure you don’t miss a single game this season! Party platters, buckets of beer specials and swag giveaways ensure your group is game day ready! Jeff, Chris and Jason Bajalieh are also the bro-founders

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behind Slice Pizza and Brewhouse and Sol’s Deli & Sandwich Shop. The restaurant’s name is a throwback to Birmingham’s first Top 40 radio station, WSGN, which built a “sky castle” remote broadcasting station atop the drive-in that once sat at the current 29 Seven site. In the 1950s, DJs broadcasted live from the remote studio, taking 2808 7th Avenue South Birmingham, AL skycastlebham.com 205.578.6080 @SkyCastleBham

requests from the crowd gathered at the drive-in below. The owners chose to pay homage to the history of the site with the look and feel of the interior of the restaurant. Check Sky Castle out online at SkyCastleBham.com or @ SkyCastleBham on social media!

Sunday - Thursday 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. Friday - Saturday 11 a.m. - 12 a.m. View their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com

EXCURSIONS 59

PORKY’S PRIDE SMOKE HOUSE

2516 Walker Chapel Road 205.849.5122 RED LANTERN CHINESE RESTAURANT

311 Main Street, Trussville 205.655.0736

Makarios Kabob & Grill 940 20th Street S, Birmingham 35205; 205.731.7414 2931 Columbiana Rd, Vestavia Hills 35216; 205.979.6495 4257 Hwy 52, Helena 35080; 205.436.8660 makarioskabob.com

RED ROBIN GOURMET BURGERS & SPIRITS

5029 Pinnacle Square 205.661.0492

SEAFOOD AND CHICKEN BOX

SHERRY’S CAFÉ CATERING CAKES

5800 Valley Rd, Ste. 110, Trussville 205.655.5260 SOUTHERN DINER

5961 Chalkville Mountain Lane 205.874.6804

AIRPORT, CENTER POINT, CRESTWOOD, IRONDALE, LEEDS CRESTWOOD TAVERN

5500 Crestwood Blvd. 205.510.0053

Appetizers: Baba Ghannooj, Hommous with Veggies, Sauteed Lamb with Mushroom Entrees: Shish Kabob, Grape Leaves Dinner, Shawarma Plate Seafood: Salmon Ghallaba, Sauteed Swordfish, Shish Shrimp, BBQ Shrimp Vegetarian Options Available

60 EXCURSIONS

OLD SMOKEY BAR.B.Q

7484 Pkwy. Drive 205.699.4766

5954 Chalkville Road 205.655.7414

On the Menu

1906 1st Ave. N 205.956.5258

SANPEGGIO’S PIZZA

5078 Pinnacle Square, Ste. 106 205.655.6040

SANPEGGIO’S PIZZA

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IRONDALE CAFÉ, THE ORIGINAL WHISTLESTOP CAFE

7323 Pkwy. Drive 205.699.7904

2657 Valleydale Rd, Suite 100 205.437.8300

HOURS OF OPERATION: Sunday – Thursday: 10 a.m. – 11 p.m. Friday – Saturday: 10 a.m. – 1 a.m.

HAMBURGER HEAVEN

1703 Crestwood Blvd. 205.951.3570

ROCK N ROLL SUSHI

7270 Gadsden Hwy, Suite 100, Trussville 205.655.3399

Discover Makarios Kabob and experience the jewel of Middle Eastern traditional authentic cuisine. Makarios Kabob is known for its bright flavors, freshness, delicate marinades for chicken, lamb and beef kabobs which rely on the essential combinations of fresh lemon, aromatic olive oils and fragrant spices. Markarios serves delicious selections such as lamb or beef shish kabob, lamb chops, sautéed lamb and beef, classic or zesty ghallaba, shawarma plates and so much more. Makarios’ friendly staff will help guide your experience

HACIENDA MEXICAN GRILL

1676 Montclair Road 205.956.2550

THE FILLING STATION CAFE & BAR

5524 Crestwood Blvd 205.592.3455

CRESTWOOD COFFEE COMPANY

5512 Crestwood Blvd. 205.595.0300

EL CAZADOR MEXICAN GRILL

1540 Montclair Road 205.951.1205

ERNIE’S THREE OAKS DELI

4500 Montevallo Road, Ste. E105 205.951.0109 GOLDEN RULE BARBECUE

2504 Crestwood Blvd. 205.956.2678

GREEN ACRES CAFE CENTER POINT

RUSTY’S BAR.B.Q

SHANGRI.LA RESTAURANT

4500 Montevallo Road, Ste. B103 205.951.3168

HOMEWOOD, MOUNTAIN BROOK, INVERNESS MUDTOWN EAT & DRINK

3144 Green Valley Road 205.967.3300

RUTH’S CHRIS STEAKHOUSE

2300 Woodcrest Place 205.879.9995

ACAPULCO BAR AND GRILL

430 Green Springs Hwy. 205.941.1183

AMORE RISTORANTE ITALIANO

5510 Hwy. 280, Ste. 116 205.437.1005

ANOTHER BROKEN EGG CAFE

2418 Montevallo Road 205.871.7849 AUSTIE’S DELI

3800 Colonnade Pkwy., Ste. 120 205.969.1046 AVO

2721 Cahaba Rd, Mountain Brook 205.871.8212 BIG BAD BREAKFAST

5361 Highway 280 205.490.7568

BILLY’S SPORTS GRILL

2012 Cahaba Road 205.879.2238

BLACK MARKET BAR

3411 Colonnade Parkway, Ste 80 205.967.8787 BLACK PEARL ASIAN CUISINE

2405 Center Point Pkwy 205.815.0949

3419 Colonnade Pkwy., Ste. 600 205.262.9888

GREEN ACRES CAFE EAST LAKE

BLOWFISH SUSHI & ASIAN CUISINE

8500 1st Ave N, Suite B 205.836.2700

GREEN ACRES CAFE IRONDALE

1819 Crestwood Blvd 205.956.4648 GUS’S HOT DOGS

5415 Beacon Drive, Ste. 139 205.956.6622

5479 Hwy 280, Birmingham 205.506.6420 BONGIORNO

68 Church Street, Ste. A, 205.879.5947 BRIO TUSCAN GRILLE

591 Brookwood Village 205.879.9177

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LOCALDINING

THE J. CLYDE

PHOTOS: PHOTO: BRENT BOYD

here’s no place like The J. Clyde. With Birmingham’s largest heated covered patio, you can eat outside rain or shine! Serving better beers since 2007, the kitchen strives to match its beer list with pub fare like handcrafted burgers and chicken fingers. On Historic Cobb Lane, the newly renovated front bar is housed in one of the oldest buildings in Birmingham. Add in a German-style biergarten and a Parisian street café, and there’s a little space for everyone. The J. Clyde is the original home

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for craft beer in Birmingham and offers the finest ales and lagers in Alabama. The back bar features 17 brews carefully selected from Alabama breweries including their own, 5 Pts Brewing. 43 additional taps on the front wall house an incredible selection of beers from Brussels to San Diego. If beer isn’t your thing, The J. Clyde also has an extensive wine, spirit and mixed drink list, including the Alabama Honeymoon, a cocktail featuring the finest Alabama moonshine and a locally brewed Honey Brown Ale. The pub menu features items from fish and chips to pizza, burgers, and sandwiches. For those interested in exploring craft beer, The J. Clyde offers f lights featuring four-ounce snifters that can be paired with items

from the appetizer menu complementing the ale and lager offerings, including a seasonal cheese platter, fried green tomatoes and their world famous Sauerkraut Balls. 1312 Cobb Lane Birmingham, AL 35205 205.939.1312 jclyde.com Hours of Operation: Monday - Wednesday 2 p.m. - 12 a.m. Thursday - Saturday 2 p.m. - 2 a.m. View their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com

EXCURSIONS 61

CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN

238 Summit Blvd., Ste. B 205.298.7931

CARRABBA’S ITALIAN GRILL

4503 Riverview Pkwy. 205.980.1016 CHEZ LULU

Green Acres Cafe 1705 4th Avenue North, Birmingham, AL 205.251.3875 greenacres-cafe.com

1911 Cahaba Rd, Mountain Brook 205.870.7011 CHICAGO MIKE’S HOT DOGS

2701 18th Street S 205.868.4728

CHURCH STREET COFFEE & BOOKS

CONTINENTAL BAKERY

COSTA’S FAMOUS BAR.B.QUE . WILDWOOD

215 Lakeshore Pkwy. 205.263.0145

COURTYARD 280 OYSTER BAR & GRILL

4643 Hwy. 280, Ste. M 205.980.9891

CRAPE MYRTLE’S CAFE

2721 18th Street S 205.879.7891

HOURS OF OPERATION

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On the Menu Manager’s Special (pictured above): 5 Piece Chicken Wings, French Fries and Fried Green Tomatoes. Sandwiches and Plates: Bacon & Egg, Hamburger, White Fish, Fried Shrimp, Beef Sausage, Whole and Filleted Catfish, Fried Pork Chop, Fried Gizzards and Livers Sides: Fried Green Tomatoes, Fried Okra

FISH MARKET RESTAURANT

FLEMING’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE AND WINE BAR

1909 Cahaba Rd, Mountain Brook 205.870.5584

Monday – Wednesday: 9:00 a.m. – 9:45 p.m. Thursday – Saturday: 9:00 a.m. – 10:45 p.m.

EL SOL CANTINA & TAQUERIA

328 Valley Ave. 205.945.4900

CHUY’S RESTAURANT

587 Brookwood Village 205.259.1980

Green Acres Center Point, 205.815.0409 Green Acres Irondale, 205.956.4648 Green Acres East Lake, 205.836.9797 Green Acres Ensley, 205.786.7040

EDGEWOOD CREAMERY

936 Oxmoor Rd, Homewood 205.874.1999

5407 Hwy. 280 205.980.8600

COCINA SUPERIOR

Stop by any of their family-owned or franchised locations for award-winning chicken wings, fried green tomatoes, fried okra, fries, whole and filleted catfish and much more.

EDGAR’S OLD STYLE BAKERY

3407 Colonnade Pkwy. 205.968.4031

81 Church Street, Ste. 106-107 205.870.1117 216 Summit Blvd., Ste. 135 205.977.4224

Founded in 1958 by Mr. Charles Gratton, Green Acres Café’s original and current location is a Birmingham landmark and institution in the heart of the Civil Rights District and Fourth Avenue Business District in downtown. Mr. Gratton handed down the business to his son, Greg and his family and they have expanded to five Birmingham area locations.

DYRON’S LOWCOUNTRY

121 Oak Street 205.834.8257

CRAZY CAJUNS’ BOILING POT

125 Inverness Plaza 205.408.0630

CRESTLINE BAGEL AND PIZZA

66 Church Street, Ste. B 205.871.4583

DAVENPORT’S PIZZA PALACE

2837 Cahaba Road 205.879.8603 DAVE’S PIZZA

1819 29th Ave. S, 205.871.3283 DEMETRI’S BAR.B.Q

1901 28th Ave. S 205.871.1581

DEVINCI’S PIZZA

2707 18th Street S 205.879.1455 DISH’N IT OUT

1113 Dunston Ave, Birmingham 205.871.5444 DRAM WHISKEY BAR

2721 Cahaba Rd, Mountain Brook 205.871.8212

103 Summit Blvd. 205.262.9463

FLIP MODERN BURGER BOUTIQUE

220 Summit Blvd., Ste. 140 205.968.2000 FULL MOON BAR.B.QUE

337 Valley Ave., 205.945.9997

FULL MOON BAR.B.QUE

4635 Hwy. 280 S 205.991.7328

THE GARDENS CAFE BY KATHY G.

2612 Lane Park Road 205.871.1000

GEORGE’S LEBANESE & AMERICAN CUISINE

44 Green Springs Hwy. 205.942.1962 GIANMARCO’S

721 Broadway Street 205.871.9622 GINZA SUSHI & KOREAN BBQ

5291 Valleydale Road, Ste. 101 205.981.1616 GRILLE 29

971 Brookwood Village 205.783.1295 HAMBURGER HEAVEN

5303 Hwy. 280 205.981.6402

HOLLER AND DASH

2801 18th Street S, Homewood 205.414.0999 HOMEWOOD DINER

162 Oxmoor Road 205.941.9444

HOMEWOOD GOURMET

1919 28th Ave S, #103, Homewood 205.871.1620 HUNAN CUISINE CHINESE RESTAURANT

5510 Hwy. 280 S, Ste. 113 205.437.1000

DON PEPE MEXICAN GRILL

4673 Hwy. 280 205.980.8266

2837 Culver Rd 205.871.3266 230 Doug Baker Blvd., Ste. 300 205.408.3880

IXTAPA MEXICAN RESTAURANT

IZ CAFÉ ENGLISH VILLAGE

2037 Cahaba Road 205.414.0081

62 EXCURSIONS

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LOCALDINING

ROGUE TAVERN

PHOTOS: PHOTO: BRENT BOYD

ogue Tavern is the perfect blend of restaurant and bar, offering daily specials along with fresh and tasty crowd-pleasing vittles. Inspired by a love for great music and mouth-watering food, Rogue Tavern is the place in downtown Birmingham to grab a great meal and listen to live music. The food offerings range from typical bar menu items, like quesadillas, burgers and sliders to local favorites like fried chicken, shrimp and grits and pot roast, all served with Rogue Tavern’s special seasonings and sides. Even if you’re just there for a beer and a show, the appetizer offerings might attract your attention, from the

specialty wings and fried dill pickles to the hummus trio and lettuce wraps or even the fried oysters or Gulp Lump Crabmeat Cake, you are sure to be pleased with the “starter” menu. The expansive bar serves up the best craft beers (24 on tap) and every kind of cocktail you can dream up, while the friendly wait staff and bartenders see to it that you have a great time. The beer offerings include local favorites from Good People, Back Forty and Trim Tab, as well as other spectacular brews from around the world. If you aren’t as adventurous in your beer 2312 2nd Ave. N, Birmingham, AL 205.202.4151; roguetavern.com @RogueTavern

tastes, Rogue Tavern also offers traditional favorites like Budweiser, Miller and Coors. If beer isn’t your thing, Rogue Tavern’s bartenders can whip up a special drink, suited just for your tastes. And don’t miss the desserts, from Vanilla Bean Crème Brulee to Key lime pie or the homemade brownie, they are the perfect excuse to enjoy Rogue’s atmosphere just a little longer. Follow them on Facebook and Twitter for the very latest information or go to the website for menu and list of upcoming events. Monday - Thursday 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. Friday - Saturday 11 a.m. - 1 a.m. View their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com

EXCURSIONS 63

JACKSON’S BAR & BISTRO

HOT ✯✯✯ ★★★

★★★

T A M ALES

Delta Blues Hot Tamales 1318 Cobb Lane, Birmingham, AL 35205 205.502.7298 deltablueshottamales.com @DBHT_Bham

@deltablueshottamales

2829 18th Street S 205.834.8871

JIM N NICK’S BAR B Q . GREYSTONE

NAJI’S PITA GOURMET RESTAURANT

2831 Greystone Commercial Blvd. 205.991.1306 JIM N NICK’S BAR B Q . HOMEWOOD

220 Oxmoor Road 205.942.3336

2835 18th Street S 205.870.8277

JOHNNY RAY’S BAR.B.QUE

2909 18th Street S 205.879.2196

JOJO’S ON BROADWAY

3150 Cahaba Heights Village Road 205.967.4173

20 Meadow View Drive 205.981.2999

3501 Grandview Pkwy. 205.298.0200 KOSHER CAFE

3960 Montclair Road 205.386.3130 LA PAZ RESTAURANTE

99 Euclid Ave. 205.879.2225

LA SABROSITA

293 West Valley Ave. 205.290.0511

On the Menu Appetizers: Crossroads Queso, Butterbean Hummus, Sausage Plate, Wings Entrees: Tamales, Tacos, Delta Catfish, Smothered Chicken Melt, Chicken Fried Chicken Vegan Menu: Sweet Potato and Black Bean Taco, Butterbean Hummus, Black Bean Tamales, Fresh Fruit Cobbler

64 EXCURSIONS

NEWK’S EATERY

JOE’S CRAB SHACK

1830 29th Ave. S, Ste. 125 205.802.1440

KOBE JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE & SUSHI BAR

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NEW YORK PIZZA

1010 Oxmoor Road 205.871.4000 2800 Cahaba Village Plaza 205.969.5584

903 Broadway St 205.877.8058

HOURS OF OPERATION Tuesday – Saturday: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. Sunday: 11:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

166 West Valley Ave. 205.945.6001

JINSEI SUSHI BAR & LOUNGE

3431 Colonnade Pkwy., Ste. 500 205.967.0099

If you’re in the mood for some great southern food, then Delta Blues Hot Tamales is the place to dine. Delta Blues is your choice for spicy pork and black bean tamales, catfish, Italian sausage, smoked wings, crawfish étouffée, red beans and rice and so much more. Locally owned and operated by Adam and Fawn Freis, Delta Blues was developed by their inspiration to create a menu that is peanut free, soy free, gluten-free and is also accessible to vegetarians, vegans and people with other food allergies. Take advantage of the private parking located on the corner of 20th Street and 14th Avenue South.

MOMMA GOLDBERG’S DELI

1831 28th Ave. S, Ste. 175 205.870.9669

LANDRY’S SEAFOOD HOUSE

139 State Farm Pkwy. 205.916.0777

LITTLE DONKEY TAQUERIA

OAK HILL BAR & GRILL

O’CARR’S DELI

O’HENRY’S COFFEES . DOWNTOWN HOMEWOOD

2831 18th Street S, Homewood 205.870.1198 OLEXA’S

Mountain Brook Village, 2838 Culver Road 205.871.2060 OLIVE BRANCH

3236 Cahaba Heights Road 205.967.4600 ON TAP SPORTS CAFE . INVERNESS

810 Inverness Corners 205.437.1999 OTEY’S TAVERN

224 Country Club Park 205.871.8435 OVER EASY

2821 Central Ave. 205.703.7000

358 Hollywood Blvd. 205.639.1910

LLOYD’S RESTAURANT

PHO QUE HUONG VIETNAMESE RESTAURANT

5301 Hwy. 280 S 205.991.5530 MAKI FRESH

2800 Cahaba Village Plaza 205.970.3242

430 Green Springs Hwy., Ste. 15 205.942.5400 PURPLE ONION DELI & GRILL . HOMEWOOD

MAX’S DELI

479 Green Springs Hwy., 205.941.9979

MELLOW MUSHROOM – HWY 280

Birmingham Marriott, 3590 Grandview Pkwy. 205.968.3775

MICHAEL’S RESTAURANT @ ALOFT HOTEL

1922 29th Ave S, Homewood 205.820.7100

MING’S CUISINE

243 West Valley Ave 866.888.4045

MISS MYRA’S PIT BARBECUE

241 Summit Blvd. 205.298.7998

3431 Colonnade Pkwy., Ste. 400 205.968.7600 920 Inverness Corners 205.981.9914

1903 29th Ave. S 205.871.9525

514 Cahaba Park Circle 205.991.3803 3278 Cahaba Heights Road 205.967.6004

RIVER CITY GRILLE

REAL & ROSEMARY

RED PEARL RESTAURANT

ROMANO’S MACARONI GRILL

SALEM’S DINER

2913 18th Street S 205.877.8797

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LOCALDINING

SLICE PIZZA & BREWHOUSE

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lice Pizza & Brewhouse was founded in the heart of the Lakeview District in Birmingham. Started by brothers, Jeff, Chris and Jason Bajalieh, Slice is as local as you can get, from the owners to the ingredients that go into every pizza to the beer on tap. Slice originated as a place not just to eat, but to hang

out. No matter who you are or where youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re from, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll love the food and atmosphere at this local favorite amongst the movers and shakers of Birmingham. Come enjoy the best patio in Lakeview and watch the sun set with us! For more information on Slice, please visit slicebirmingham.com

729 29th Street S Birmingham, AL 35233 205.715.9300 slicebirmingham.com @SliceBirmingham Sunday - Wednesday 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. Thursday - Saturday 11 a.m. - Midnight View their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com

EXCURSIONS 65

LOCALDINING

SAM’S DELI & GRILL

932 Oxmoor Rd, Homewood 205.871.0383 SAM’S SUPER SANDWICHES

4120 3rd Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35222 205.703.8891 wasabijuan.com @wasabijuans

@wasabijuan

URBAN COOKHOUSE

2812 18th St S 205.871.0046

2846 18th Street 205.879.0883

SATTERFIELD’S RESTAURANT

URBAN COOKHOUSE AT THE SUMMIT

3161 Cahaba Heights Rd, Ste. 113, 205.969.9690

Wasabi Juan’s

TRACY’S

75 Church Street 205.803.3005

SAVAGE’S BAKERY & RESTAURANT

2916 18th Street S 205.871.4901 SAW’S BBQ

1008 Oxmoor Road 205.879.1937 SAW’S JUKE JOINT

1115 Dunston Ave. 205.745.3920

SEASONS 52 RESTAURANT

245 Summit Blvd. 205.968.5152

STEEL CITY POPS

2821 Central Ave, Homewood 205.803.6502 STEEL CITY POPS

5449 Hwy 280, Birmingham 205.803.6504

250 Summit Blvd., Ste. 102 205.969.6700 URBAN COOKHOUSE

212 Country Club Park, Mountain Brook, 205.803.3535 VILLAGE TAVERN

101 Summit Blvd. 205.970.1640 VINO

1930 Cahaba Rd 205.870.8404 ZOE’S KITCHEN - CRESTLINE

225 Country Club Park 205.871.0060

ZOE’S KITCHEN - HOMEWOOD

1830 29th Ave. S, Ste. 155 205.870.1100 ZOE’S KITCHEN - SUMMIT

323 Summit Blvd. 205.967.5800

STEELE’S

8 Perimeter Park S 205.972.8602 SUPERIOR GRILL

4701 Hwy. 280 S 205.991.5112 SURIN 280

16 Perimeter Park S 205.968.8161

Discover the original taste of sushi burritos and tacos right in the heart of historic Avondale. The inventive menu of Mexican/Sushi mashups is an easy-to-eat, transportable food. Wasabi Juan’s makes sushi eating more fun for everyone. Mixing up sushi, which is their specialty, with burritos and tacos makes their food the perfect pairing with the delicious local beers available next door. A craft beer from the brewery next door in one hand and a burrito in the other is what Wasabi Juan’s is all about. HOURS OF OPERATION: Tuesday - Thursday: 11 a.m.– 9 p.m. Friday - Saturday: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. Sunday: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. View their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com

On the Menu

TAIPEI 101 SUSHI AND ASIAN BISTRO

471 Green Springs Hwy. 205.912.7037 TAZIKI’S GREEK FARE – MOUNTAIN BROOK

2737 Hwy. 280, Ste. 121 205.870.0455 TAZIKI’S GREEK FARE – COLONNADE

3439 Colonnade Pkwy., Ste. 1700 205.968.6622 THE BACK NINE CLUBHOUSE & GRILLE

611 Doug Baker Blvd., Ste. 105 205.981.4588

ALL ORIGINAL PIZZERIA

4760 Eastern Valley Road, Suite 122, McCalla, 205.477.1123 BOB SYKES BAR-B-Q

1724 9th Ave. N, Bessemer 205.426.1400, THE BRIGHT STAR

304 19th Street N, Bessemer 205.426.1861 BRYANT’S SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

3096 Allison Bonnett Memorial Drive 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, Bessemer, 205.428.8801 CLASSIC BURGER

THE CHEESECAKE FACTORY

1732 15th Street N 205.424.5742

THE PANTRY BY STONE HOLLOW FARMSTEAD

1395 4th Ave SW 205.424.7600

THE FIG TREE

2610 16 Street N, Birmingham 205.320.0099

236 Summit Blvd. 205.262.1800

17 Dexter Ave 205.803.3585

3160 Cahaba Heights Rd, 205.969.6711

DEB’S HOT DOGS

EAGLES RESTAURANT

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Salads: Cucumber Salad, Kimchi, Mango Slaw 4:20 Nachos: Doritos, spicy tuna, avocado, unagi sauce and spicy mayo Poke & Sticky: Hawaiian-style tuna & sushi rice L.H.M (Lord Have Mercy) Burrito: Spicy tuna, shrimp, cream cheese, spicy mayo, unagi sauce & avocados

SURIN OF THAILAND

64 Church Street 205.871.4531

BESSEMER, WEST

66 EXCURSIONS

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LOCALDINING

OCEAN

PPHOTOS: (TOP) BRENT BOYD; (MIDDLE) BIG SWEDE FOOD

he bold seafood menu at Ocean made the restaurant a premier location for fine dining in Birmingham when it opened in 2002. The restaurant has since become one of the city’s crown jewels as accolades have been heaped on the restaurant, chef and owner George Reis and on the restaurant’s fine wine offerings. The awards include numerous best chef and best restaurant nods, as well as a regular winner of the Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator and AAA Four Diamond award winner for a number of years. Many patrons stop by for a signature martini at the newly renovated white marble topped bar. The beautiful environment, paired with one

of Ocean’s signature cocktails, is a perfect way to start the night. Other locals head straight to the Raw Bar for seafood offerings not found anywhere else in the city. From the imposing Seafood Tower that showcases most of the Raw Bar’s offerings to the various oysters, lobster, crab legs and mussels served at the bar, it is a wonderful taste of what Ocean has in store. The casual atmosphere of the patio dining area is perfect for a low-key night out with friends, but be sure to sample the award-winning and recently restyled dining experience inside as well. Any seafood lover is certain to find their favorite on the menu, whether it be shrimp or one of the restaurant’s whole fish offerings, which change daily. For those who aren’t in a seafood mood, Reis offers a Hereford filet mignon and lamb loin and belly sausage roulade as well as a number of

salads and desserts that will satisfy any craving. Located in the historic Five Points South area, Ocean is at the center of the city’s entertainment and culinary center. Reservations are encouraged and there’s ample seating at the bar. 1218 20th Street South Birmingham, AL 35205 205.933.0999 oceanbirmingham.com @oceanbirmingham Tuesday-Saturday: 5:30-10:30 p.m. View their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com

EXCURSIONS 67

EAST OF THE MISSISSIPPI DINER (LENA’S)

3103 Ensley Five Points W Ave 205.781.7837

156 River Square Plaza Hueytown 205.491.4422

FAIRFIELD SEAFOOD EXPRESS

275 Forest Rd Hueytown 205.744.4659

3710 Richard M Scrushy Pkwy 205.781.4680 GOLDEN DRAGON I

3325 Rocky Ridge Plaza, Vestavia Hills, AL 35243 205.917.5080; theridgealabama.com

2227 Bessemer Rd 205.788.8730 GUS’S HOT DOGS

224 Brooklane Drive Hueytown 205.491.8565 HABANERO’S MEXICAN GRILL

On the Menu The Ridgeline - A triple decker club sandwich with mayo, ham, turkey, jalapeno bacon, swiss and cheddar cheeses; this thing is a monster. Pimento Burger - Topped with melted, gooey jalapeno pimento cheese. This burger is amazing. Have no doubts our pimento cheese is the best thing to happen to burgers since...well ever! The Ribeye - A beautiful 14 oz. ribeye, char-grilled however you like it served with gouda grits and grilled veggies.

68 EXCURSIONS

UNCLE SAM’S BARBECUE

THE RIDGE EAT & DRINK

3325 Rocky Ridge Rd 205.917.5080 TWIN PEAKS

JADE GARDEN

4330 Creekside Ave, Hoover 205.203.9461

JENNIE’S SANDWICH SHOP

4133 White Oak Drive 205.578.2553

J J WINGS

3419 Colonnade Pkwy., Ste. 100 205.490.1444

J’S WINGS 2

521 Montgomery Hwy., Ste. 113 205.823.1505

331 4th Avenue N, 205.424.3663

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TOP THAT GRILLE II

1371 Bessemer Road 205.923.2422

HOOVER, VESTAVIA, PELHAM

760 Academy Drive, Ste. 112, Bessemer, 205.428.5878

HOURS OF OPERATION

348 Finley Ave. W 205.323.6427

HABANERO’S MEXICAN GRILL

2780 Allison Bonnett Memorial Drive, 205.744.8855

Monday - Thursday 11 a.m. - 9.30 p.m. Friday - Saturday 11 a.m. - 10:30 p.m.

SMOKEHOUSE STEAK & SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

3043 Allison Bonnett Memorial Drive, 205.491.1333

HOME PLATE DINER

Their roomy bar is the best! It’s a great place to meet friends to watch the big game or meet after work to unwind. Their knowledgeable staff can provide you with the refreshing beverage of your choice. It’s always a great atmosphere and a fun night at The Ridge!

SPEEDY’S MEXICAN FOODS

3048 Allison Bonnett Memorial Drive 205.491.9974

4863 Promenade Pkwy., Ste. 103 205.438.1558

The Ridge is Birmingham’s newest family dining experience. The Ridge offers a fantastic selection of American fare. From custom burgers to original sandwiches and entrees that will impress any fine food lover, their menu has something for everyone.

SHANGHAI CHINESE RESTAURANT

EGG ROLL EXPRESS

100 Bessemer Super Highway Midfield, 205.925.4670

The Ridge Eat & Drink

SAN ANTONIO GRILL – MCCALLA

1205 Lake Dr. SE., Bessemer 205.425.0003

900 Milstead Rd Fairfield 205.783.8610 1011 9th Ave, Bessemer 205.565.4555 KRISPY KREME DOUGHNUTS

96 Weibel Dr., Midfield 205.923.2016 LOS SOMBERO’S

5031 Ford Pkwy., Ste. 107 205.425.8887 MAIN MOON CHINESE RESTAURANT

737 9th Ave N, Bessemer 205.425.7277 MILO’S HAMBURGERS - BESSEMER

ALABAMA BISCUIT

ASIAN RIM

BISTRO V

BILLY’S SPORTS GRILL

4520 Overton Road, Ste. 104 205.956.2323 BLUFF PARK DINER

591 Shades Crest Road 205.824.4320 BONEFISH GRILL

3430 Galleria Circle 205.985.9545 BROCK’S

4000 Grand Ave 205.949.3051 CAJUN STEAMER BAR AND GRILL

757 Academy Dr, Bessemer 205.426.1650

180 Main Street, Ste. 200 205.985.7785

MR. HOTDOG

3443 Lorna Road 205.978.1603

216 19th Street N, 205.425.1545 MUFFALLETTA’S PIZZA AND PASTA

1810 9th Ave N, Birmingham 205.424.9901 NIKI’S WEST

233 Finley Ave. W 205.252.5751 RAILROAD CAFE

1205 Lake Dr. SE., Ste. 111 205.424.1073

COSTA’S MEDITERRANEAN CAFE

COZUMEL GRILL & MEXICAN RESTAURANT

2754 Pelham Pkwy Pelham 205.621.8886 DALE’S SOUTHERN GRILL

1843 Montgomery Hwy, Suite 107, 205.987.4757 DEPOT DELI & GRILL

29 Lake Davidson Ln Helena 205.620.1426

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LOCALDINING

5 POINT PUBLIC HOUSE OYSTER BAR

PHOTO: @BIG SWEDE FOOD

t 5 Point Public House Oyster Bar find a new, fresh take on seafood and more from celebrated chef and owner George Reis. Although just next door to his f lagship Ocean restaurant, the new venture could not be more different in its offerings, allowing Reis to venture outside of the seafoodcentric world of Ocean and exercise his creativity. The offerings include an oyster bar that serves only Southeastern coastal oysters as well as sushi, but also decidedly non-seafood items,

like alligator tacos, Southern fried pork skins and a variety of specialty burgers that are quickly becoming one of the biggest draws to the restaurant. Influences come from a variety of items, recipes, countries and cultures, with mashups that only a chef of Reisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; vision could put together. 5 Point Public House also allows Reis to dive into the craft beer scene that has swept through the Magic City in recent years, with more than 40 craft beer offerings, two dozen draft beers available along side a number of cocktails and eight keg-style wines on tap to pair with the eclectic food offerings. The new gastropub focuses on good food served in a casual, pub-like setting, where the focus is on quality and comfort for the patrons.

Their unique craft beer delivery system pumps your favorite craft to your own personal tap at the pub table...very cool indeed.

1210 20th Street South Birmingham, AL 35205 205.918.0726 5pointpublichouse.com @5pointpublichouseoysterbar Monday - Thursday: 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. Friday: 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. Saturday: 5 p.m. - 11 p.m.

EXCURSIONS 69

DIPLOMAT DELICATESSEN & SPIRITS

1425 Montgomery Hwy, Ste. 101, Vestavia Hills, 205.979.1515 DAVE’S DELI

1615 Montgomery Hwy., Ste. 124 205.822.8000 DONATOS PIZZA

629 Montgomery Hwy. 205.824.1112 EDGAR’S OLD STYLE BAKERY

180 Main Street, Ste. 240 205.987.0790

Mudtown Eat & Drink 3144 Green Valley Road, Vestavia Hills, AL 35243 205.967.3300; mudtownalabama.com

FIREBIRDS ROCKY MOUNTAIN GRILL

Patton Creek Shopping Ctr., Hoover 205.733.2002

ON TAP SPORTS CAFÉ – GALLERIA

2673 Valleydale Road 205.874.6888

GABRIEL’S SPIRITED CAFE

3706 Lorna Road 205.985.0983

GOLDEN RULE BARBECUE HOOVER

1571 Montgomery Hwy. 205.823.7770

Charleston Shrimp & Grits - A Southern classic from the poorhouse to the penthouse! Tons of flavor here, from the garlic cheese grits to the Andouille sausage, shrimp and vegetables

NEWK’S EATERY

612 Montgomery Hwy., Ste. 110 205.777.0442

FORMAGGIO’S ITALIAN BISTRO

FULL MOON BAR-B-QUE . HOOVER

Cahaba Chicken Sandwich - Hand-breaded and fried chicken filet tossed in our Cahaba Wing Sauce and topped with ranch coleslaw. Simple and delicious

MOE’S ORIGINAL BBQ

181 Main Street, Ste. 201 205.985.8841

1594 Montgomery Hwy., Ste. 102M 205.823.7206

2000 Patton Chapel Road 205.822.6666

On the Menu

LA FIESTA

1941 Hoover Court, Ste. A 205.979.7314

FOODBAR

1779A Montgomery Hwy. 205.989.7999

See their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com

621 Montgomery Hwy. 205.823.4560

3440 Galleria Circle 205.988.3203

3156 Heights Village 205.876.8100

HOURS OF OPERATION Sunday - Thursday 11 a.m. - 9.30 p.m. Friday - Saturday 11 a.m. - 10:30 p.m. Sunday Brunch 11 a.m - 3:00 p.m.

KLINGLER’S EUROPEAN BAKERY & CAFE

FISH MARKET RESTAURANT

1681 Montgomery Hwy. 205.823.3474

They named their restaurant from the nickname given by the Creek Indians in the 1800s. The Native Americans inhabiting the Cahaba River banks, immediately east of the restaurant’s location, nicknamed the area “mudtown” due to the swampy, muddy conditions as a result of heavy rains. Even though they named a restaurant after dirt, the food is fantastic, fresh and fun. The beverages are cold and unique. The atmosphere is inviting and comforting. As you walk in to Mudtown, you will feel the prevailing friendly spirit, smell the enticing aromas from the kitchen and anticipate a quality dining experience served by people who genuinely appreciate you stopping by.

JOHNNY BRUSCO’S

New York Style Pizza 2516 Rocky Ridge Road 205.637.5270

GREAT WRAPS

2000 Riverchase Galleria, Ste 222 205.985.0810 HAAGEN-DAZS ICE CREAM & YOGURT SHOP

SALVATORE’S PIZZA

SHANE’S RIB SHACK

SHULA’S STEAK HOUSE

Wynfrey Hotel, 1000 Riverchase Galleria 205.444.5750 SILVER COIN INDIAN GRILL

3321 Lorna Road 205.823.9070 SOL AZTECA

1360 Montgomery Hwy., Ste. 128 205.979.4902 SOUTHERN LEGACY BBQ & BREW

2943 John Hawkins Pkwy. 205.988.0744 STIX

2000 Riverchase Galleria, Ste 210 205.987.6255

3250 Galleria Circle 205.982.3070

HABANEROS MEXICAN GRILL. HOOVER

SUMO JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE & SUSHI BAR

1601 Montgomery Hwy. 205.979.7772 HUNAN GARDEN

1851 Montgomery Hwy. 205.987.9499 ICHIBAN JAPANESE STEAK HOUSE

620 Old Towne Road 205.822.4646 IRON HORSE CAFE

1694 Montgomery Hwy., Ste. 184 205.978.5599 IZ CAFÉ ROCKY RIDGE

2514 Rocky Ridge Road 205.979.7570 J. ALEXANDER’S RESTAURANT

3320 Galleria Circle 205.733.9995

JIM N NICK’S BAR B Q -

1810 Montgomery Hwy. S 205.733.1300 JUBILEE JOE’S FRESH SEAFOOD MARKET & RESTAURANT

151 Main Street 205.444.1515

TECATE BAR & GRILL

612 Montgomery Hwy., Ste. 100 205.823.2399 THE PITA CAFE

2801 Hwy. 150, Ste. 137J 205.402.7482 TIP TOP GRILL

588 Shades Crest Road 205.978.8677 TORTUGAS HOMEMADE PIZZA

2801 John Hawkins Pkwy., Ste. 169R 205.403.9800 ZAPATA MEXICAN RESTAURANT

2005 Valleydale Road, Ste. 3 205.733.1115

ZOE’S KITCHEN - PATTON CREEK

180 Main Street, Ste. 140 205.989.4020 ❖

2341 John Hawkins Pkwy., Ste. 119 205.982.7797

70 EXCURSIONS

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PHOTO:

LOCALDINING

RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE

PHOTOS: RUTH’S CHRIS PHOTO:

n iconic American steakhouse with New Orleans f lair, Ruth’s Chris delights steak enthusiasts around the world with their custom-aged, USDA Prime steaks, served with their signature sizzle and legendary hospitality Whether you are looking to treat yourself to an extraordinary cut of steak such as the New York

Strip, or you want to unwind with a handcrafted, vintage-inspired cocktail, Ruth’s Chris Steak House is the perfect place to indulge your senses. Conveniently located between Birmingham’s upscale Homewood and Mountain Brook neighborhoods, near Vulcan Park and Museum, St. Vincent’s Hospital and the Birmingham Zoo, Ruth’s Chris

Birmingham boasts private party accommodations for groups of 10 or more as well as daily lunch and dinner service in the dining room. And to unwind in sizzling style, be sure to check out their exciting new “Ruth’s Hour,” featuring promotionally priced food and beverage from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in the bar and lounge area, seven days a week.

2300 Woodcrest Place, Birmingham, AL ruthschris.net; 205.879.9995 Lunch: Monday - Sunday 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Dinner: Monday - Sunday 3 p.m. - 10 p.m. View their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com

EXCURSIONS 71

Local Night Life From cocktails, karaoke and vape lounges to live music, craft beer and late night dancing, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find your perfect spot. 72 EXCURSIONS

THE HUMIDOR ROOM CIGAR & SCOTCH BAR

irmingham’s only cigar and scotch bar. Whether you are a beginner or a connoisseur of finer things, the Humidor Room is a welcome surprise. A knowledgeable staff is welcoming, kind and knows just the right recipe for relaxing your mind. The Humidor Room offers a wide selection of fine spirits, including an extensive list of single malt scotches

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and single barrel bourbons and a growing beer and wine list to enhance your cigar smoking experience. Enjoy Karaoke on Thursday nights and live music every Friday. Visit the Humidor Room and take advantage of the free wi-fi while you kick back on one of their many leather sofas, enjoying your favorite cigar and sipping on your favorite rare scotch. The walk-in humidor offers the finest cigars available. The Humidor Room is the only certified local retailer for Fuente Fuente Opus X cigars.

5511 Hwy 280, Ste. 101, Birmingham, AL 35342 205.995.4481 humidorroom280.com @thehumidorroom Monday – Tuesday: 10 a.m. – 12 a.m. Wednesday - Thursday: 10 a.m. – 1 a.m. Friday – Saturday: 10 a.m. – 2 a.m. Sunday: 1 p.m. – 8 p.m. View their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com

EXCURSIONS 73

LOCALNIGHTLIFE  TIN ROOF

SOUTHSIDE AND DOWNTOWN

2709 7th Ave. S 205.323.4356

CLUB 21 1615 2nd Ave N 205.252.4221

INNISFREE IRISH PUB 710 29th Street S 205.252.4252

 AVONDALE BREWING

3000 BAR 1100 20th Street S 205.933.3222

CLUB SOUTH 1102 10th Street S 205.251.0512

IRON CITY BIRMINGHAM 513 22nd Street S 205.202.5483

41ST STREET PUB & AIRCRAFT SALES 130 41st Street S, Suite 105 205.202.4187

CRESCENDO BAR & LOUNGE 423 20th Street S 205.254.8700

MARTY’S P.M. 1813 10th court s 205.939.0045

DAVE’S PUB 1128 20th Street S 205.933.4030

MATTHEW’S BAR & GRILL 2208 Morris Ave. 205.862.6261

FANCY’S ON FIRTH 430 41st St. S, Birmingham 205.777.3662

MOJO PUB & GRILL 2801 7th Ave s, Birmingham 205.703.0933

THE FURNACE 309 28th Street N. 205.251.5551

NANA FUNKS 708 29th Street S 205.250.8003

GABLE SQUARE SALOON 803 9th Court S 205.251.0960

OASIS 2807 7th Ave. S 205.323.5538

GARAGE CAFE & ANTIQUES 2304 10th Terrace S 205.322.3220

OLD CAR HEAVEN 3501 1st Ave. S 205.326.8902

GOOD PEOPLE BREWING COMPANY 114 14th Street S 205.286.2337

ON TAP SPORTS CAFE 737 29th Street S 205.320.1225

COMPANY 201 41st Street S 205.777.5456

BLUE MONKEY LOUNGE 1318 Cobb Lane S 205.933.9222

CANTINA TORTILLA GRILL 2901 2nd Ave S, Ste. 110 Birmingham 205.323.6980

 LOU’S PUB & PACKAGE STORE 726 29th Street S 205.322.7005

 PALE EDDIE’S 2308 2nd Ave, N 205.297.0052

 ROGUE TAVERN 2312 2nd Ave. N 205.202.4151

AQUA LOUNGE & NIGHTCLUB 2824 5th Ave. S 205.714.8155 BIRMINGHAM DAIQUIRIS 324 9th St N 205.226.6790 BLACK MARKET BAR & GRILL 2011 Highland Ave. S 205.933.8035 CAHABA BREWING COMPANY TASTING ROOM 2616 3rd Ave. S 205.578.2616

1312 Cobb Lane 205.939.1312

CARRIGAN’S PUBLIC HOUSE 2430 Morris Ave. 205.440.2430

THE WINE LOFT 2200 1st Ave. N 205.323.8228

CHASER’S SPORTS BAR 815 24th Street N 205.324.2425

 THE J. CLYDE

74 EXCURSIONS

THE H MARTINI BAR 1023 20th Street S. 205.933.9555

OUR PLACE 2115 7th Ave S 205.715.0077

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LOCALNIGHTLIFE

Pale Eddie’s The Wine Loft 2200 1st Avenue North, Birmingham, AL 35203 205.323.8228; wineloftbham.com @Wine.Loft.Birmingham

@WineLoftBham

PHOTOS: (LEFT) BRENT BOYD; (RIGHT) RAY HYDRICK

Experience excellence and enjoy the beautiful décor, music, wine, delicious food and knowledgeable staff at The Wine Loft. Located in the heart of Birmingham’s historic downtown entertainment district, The Wine Loft offers a unique experience for those with a sophisticated palate and sense of style. Relax with friends or colleagues in one of their curtained lounge areas and choose from the vast collection of wines from the wine cellar or you may prefer a craft cocktail or beer from the fully-stocked bar. Treat yourself to wines by the glass or bottle served alongside eclectic tapas, appetizers, pizzas, gourmet flatbreads and desserts.

2308 2nd Avenue North, Birmingham, AL 35203 205.297.0052 paleeddiespourhouse.com A tastefully-appointed, smoke-free neighborhood gathering spot with free-flowing ales and lagers. We offer a rotating selection of craft and high-gravity beers in addition to a unique selection of wine and liquors. Located in the loft district of historic downtown Birmingham, the building’s exposed brick and hardwood floors, use of reclaimed timbers and wood elements and ever-rotating gallery of works from local artists provide the backdrop for the bar’s cozy pub ambiance. We also regularly host live music acts with an emphasis on acoustic and singer/songwriter performances and have a separate area available for hosting private functions, receptions and other gatherings. Come get your pour on at Pale Eddie’s!

HOURS:

Reserve space for special events or business presentations for groups of 20 to 200 people. HOURS OF OPERATION

Tuesday - Saturday 5 p.m. - til View their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com for more photos, Facebook feed, link to website and more.

@PaleEddies

Monday - Thursday 4 p.m. - 2 a.m. Friday 3 p.m. - 2 a.m. Saturday 12 p.m. - 2 a.m. Sunday 3 p.m. - Midnight

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EXCURSIONS 75

LOCALNIGHTLIFE PARAMOUNT 200 20th Street N 205.328.1515

THE COLLINS BAR 2125 2nd Ave. N, Ste 100 205.323.7995

WORKPLAY 500 23rd Street S 205.879.4773

BILLY’S BAR & GRILL 2012 Cahaba Road 205.879.2238

PARKSIDE 4036 5th Ave. S 205.595.0920

THE MARBLE RING 430 41st Street S, Birmingham 205.202.2252

ZYDECO 2001 15th Ave. S 205.933.1032

BLACK MARKET BAR 3411 Colonnade Pkwy., Ste. 800 205.967.8787

SATURN AND SATELLITE 200 41st Street S 205.703.9545

THE NICK 2514 10th Ave. S 205.252.3831

CRESTWOOD, EASTWOOD

SKKY NIGHT CLUB 1928 11th Ave. S 205.731.2582

THE QUEST 416 24th Street S 205.251.4313

BLACKWELL’S NEIGHBORHOOD PUB 3151 Green Valley Road 205-967-3798

SPIKE’S LEATHER CLUB 620 27th Street S 205.703.9778

THE RARE MARTINI 2839 7th Ave. S 205.323.0008

STEEL 1ST AND 23RD 2300 1st Ave. N 205.324.0666

THE SYNDICATE LOUNGE 433 20th St S 205.238.8187

STILLWATER PUB 2109 7th Ave. S 205.202.5625

TODD ENGLISH P.U.B. 2221 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N 205.307.3700

SYNDICATE LOUNGE 433 20th Street S 256-282-3308

TRIM TAB BREWING COMPANY 2721 5th Ave. S 828.545.4746

HOMEWOOD, MOUNTAIN BROOK, INVERNESS

TAVERN ON 1ST 2320 1st Ave. N 205.201.5005

UPSIDE DOWN PLAZA 2012 Magnolia Ave. S 205.930.0333

THE HUMIDOR ROOM CIGAR &

THE BREAK 1001 20th Street S 205.252.3779

VAPE LOFT 720 29th Street S 912.713.5830

 CRESTWOOD TAVERN 5500 Crestwood Blvd. 205.510.0053

THE FILLING STATION PIZZA

COURTYARD 280 OYSTER BAR & GRILL 4643 Highway 280, Ste. M 205.980.9891

CAFE & BAR 2312 2nd Ave N 205.202.4151

DRAM WHISKEY BAR 2721 Cahaba Road 205.871.8055

BOURBON ST. BAR & LOUNGE 1568 Cooper Hill Road 205.957.1006

GREY BAR 5426 Hwy 280 205.874.6361

SCOTCH BAR 5479 Hwy 280 205.995.4481

JACKSON’S BAR & BISTRO 1831 28th Ave. S, Ste. 175 205.870.9669 MAFIAOZA’S PIZZERIA AND NEIGHBORHOOD PUB 2 Dexter Ave. 205.414.7878

PHOTO: BRENT BOYD

BASIL GOURMET PIZZA & BAR 1101 Dunston Ave, Mtn Brook 205.224.4465

HABITAT FEED & SOCIAL 2655 Lane Park Rd, Birmingham 205.203.4745

76 EXCURSIONS

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LOCALNIGHTLIFE

Sidebar Blue Monkey Lounge 1318 Cobb Lane South, Birmingham AL 35205 205.933.9222 For a relaxing evening and a diverse list of martinis and spirits, Blue Monkey Lounge is the place to have it all including their signature Blue Monkey Martini. Choose from their cigar selection while you enjoy watching a large screen TV on their smoke friendly patio. Meet new friends in a diverse crowd lounging around Blue Monkey Lounge as if they had nowhere else to go and else to do, but sit around and be lively, sipping their drinks and relaxing. Tuesdays ‘Tini Tuesday: $5.00 Specialty Martinis all night long Wednesdays 2 Chicks with Swizzle Sticks. Carefully Curated Cocktail specials every Wednesday

2929 7th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35233 205.224.4410 lakeviewsidebar.com Sidebar is the hottest spot in the most thriving entertainment district of Birmingham. Whether you’re just starting the afternoon or burning the midnight oil, this is your haven. With their weatherproof patio, there is plenty of space to enjoy the open air or belly up to the bar in our inviting front room and bring your A-game to our dance room—complete with back patio and a bar of its own. Come play or watch a game of beach volleyball on the newly built outdoor beach volleyball court - equipped with loads of outdoor seating and a fully stocked bar. Celebrate Hump Day with our Wine Wednesday specials and all 18 drafts are half-off all night as well! Kick your weekends off right every Thursday night with live music on the patio. Live music every Friday and Saturday night—so come get down with us.

Thursdays Code Blue: All Blue drinks $5.00 + $2.00 Champagne Happy Hour: 3-8 p.m. weekdays HOURS:

Live Music Every Friday and Saturday

Happy Hour Daily 5-8 p.m. Tuesday – Saturday: 5 p.m. – 2 a.m.

18 Beers on Tap

@bluemonkeylounge

HDTVs Inside and Out

@bluemonkeybirmingham

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lakeviewsidebar

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sidebarbham

EXCURSIONS 77

LOCALNIGHTLIFE OAK HILL BAR & GRILL 2835 18th Street S 205.870.8277

HOOVER, VESTAVIA

MOONLIGHT ON THE MOUNTAIN 585 Shades Crest Rd, Birmingham 205.578.2444

PELHAM, HWY 119

ON TAP SPORTS CAFE 810 Inverness Corners 205.437.1999

TWIN PEAKS 4330 Creekside Ave., Hoover 205.203.9461

ON TAP SPORTS CAFE 3440 Galleria Circle 205.988.3203

OCTANE BAR PELHAM 2969 Pelham Pkwy 205.624.3018

OTEY’S TAVERN 224 Country Club Park 205.871.8435

BAR 31 1485 Montgomery Hwy. 205.824.3555

ON TAP SPORTS CAFE 1845 Montgomery Hwy., Ste. 207 205.988.5558

PUB 261 9340 Helena Road, Suite C 205-444-0261

POPPA G’S BILLIARDS 2722 Chandalar Place Dr 205-664-2949

BILLY’S BAR & GRILL 4520 Overton Rd, Vestavia 205.956.2323

SATTERFIELD’S RESTAURANT 3161 Cahaba Heights Rd Ste. 113 205.969.9690

SHELBY'S 9340 Helena Rd. 205.444.0261

RED HILLS BREWING COMPANY 2823 Central Ave, Homewood 205.582.2897

BLACKWELL’S NEIGHBORHOOD PUB 3151 Green Valley Road 205.967.3798

THE NEIGHBORHOOD BREW 5184 Caldwell Mill Rd, Hoover 205.980.7445

RED LION LOUNGE 1926 29th Ave S. 205.871.8552 SAW’S JUKE JOINT 1115 Dunston Ave. 205.745.3920 STARZ KARAOKE LOUNGE 730 Valley Ave. 205.944.0007 STIR CRAZY 430 Green Springs Hwy., Ste. 10 205.941.3343

VOODOO RESTAURANT & BAR 1695 Montgomery Hwy 205.978.5599

CHARLIE’S TAPHOUSE & CAFÉ 1845 Montgomery Hwy 205.988.5558

TRUSSVILLE, LEEDS

COMEDY CLUB STARDOME 1818 Data Drive 205.444.0008

PARISH SEAFOOD & OYSTER HOUSE 1911 Gadsden Hwy 205.655.4117

GABRIEL’S SPIRITED CAFÉ 3706 Lorna Road 205.985.0983 IRON HORSE CAFÉ 1695 Montgomery Hwy 205.978.5599

LYNN’S OFFICE LOUNGE 8040 Parkway Dr 205.699.8349

PHOTO: BRENT BOYD

THE UPPER DECK SPORTS BAR & GRILL 449 Valley Ave. 205.942.3289

BUMPERS BILLIARDS 2132 Lorna Ridge Lane, Ste.100 205.823.4006

78 EXCURSIONS

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LOCALNIGHTLIFE

Lou’s Pub & Package Store 726 29th Street South, Birmingham, AL 35233 205.322.7005 louspub.com Esquire magazine named Lou’s Pub one of the “100 Best Bars in America!” Lou’s Pub & Package Store, celebrating 30 years, is Birmingham’s most unique boutique dive bar with a “Cheers” feel and they are also a package store! Loved by all who enter, Lou’s Pub is known for its diverse clientele and colorful bartenders. Although the bar’s namesake, Louis Zaden, has had his “last call,” for the past eight years the proprietor, Michael Carpri, has kept old traditions alive and well—service matters! “Sit down, shut up and drink!” The staff here says, “the only time you should get out of your seat is to pee or greet a friend.” With a full line of quality high-end spirits, there’s so many reasons to “Meet at Lou’s!” On Church Nights (Wednesdays and Sundays), Angel mixes up high-end, craft cocktails. The cocktail menu changes monthly based on the season’s freshest ingredients and the bartenders’ moods. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday let Mike and “Miss O” take care of you. Mike’s forgotten more about drinkmaking than most will ever know. “Miss O” can find you a fantastic cigar and has a story about every bottle we sell.

Tin Roof 2709 7th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35233 205.323.4356 tinroofbirmingham.com The Tin Roof is one Birmingham’s top music venues, hosting local bands and well-known entertainers alike. Tin Roof is the place for anyone who loves live music in an unpretentious, fun environment where the staff, patrons and musicians are united in their love for good music and fun. The Roof has become a place for musicians to play when they want and hang out when they aren’t playing. With karaoke, drink and menu specials and other attractions on various nights of the week, Tin Roof is one of the Magic City’s top entertainment venues. Check their website for a schedule of live music events and shows.

HOURS:

They have Birmingham’s BEST Bushwhacker, too! @trbham

HOURS OF OPERATION

Everyday 3 p.m. - til louspub

View their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com

Monday - Thursday 7 a.m. - Midnight Friday - Saturday 7 a.m. - 2 a.m. Sunday 10 a.m. - Midnight

View their mobile profile at EXCURSIONSGO.com

EXCURSIONS 79

Annual Events Vulcan’s Birthday Bash

Birmingham Bowl

From art exhibits, parades, music festivals and football to bass fishing, NASCAR and motocross, Birmingham has something for adults and children alike every month of the year.

Martin Luther King Day BIRMINGHAM CIVIL RIGHTS INSTITUTE

Each year the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute offers tours for the Martin Luther King Day of Celebration and Service, reminding people that it is a “day on, not a day off.” The institute encourages citizens to use the day off work or school to work toward bettering their community, just as King did during his lifetime. 205.328.9696; bcri.org

Five Points South: Patience, People and the Plan VULCAN PARK AND MUSEUM

Year Long Exhibition For more than a century, Five Points South has been a multicultural haven for Birmingham’s free-spirited creatives. Founded in the 1890s as the suburb town Highland, 80 EXCURSIONS

it enjoyed streetcar access to downtown. Originally populated with stately Queen Anne houses, the architecture evolved to include many of the Art Deco, Spanish and Craftsman style homes and structures found there today. In 1980, dedicated community and civic leaders saw the historic and economic value in the then diminishing Southside neighborhood. Leaders created a plan to revive Birmingham’s many neglected districts. Shops, restaurants and entertainment venues as well as the historically significant architecture continue to be a draw for this community. The 1980 plan was a springboard for future plans which continue to help our city flourish. 205.933.1409; visitvulcan.com

Birmingham Art Crawl DOWNTOWN BIRMINGHAM

January 2017 – December 2017: Join the Bir-

mingham Art Crawl every first Thursday of the month rain or shine, as downtown Birmingham transforms into a walking art gallery full of artists, performers, food and fun! birminghamartcrawl.com

Birmingham Bowl LEGION FIELD

January: This is a post-season NCAAsanctioned Division I-A college football bowl game played annually at Legion Field. 205.733.3776, birminghambowl.com

FEBRUARY Beaker Bash 2016: Galactic Road Trip MCWANE SCIENCE CENTER

February 4, 2017: Mark your calendars for McWane Science Center’s annual familyfriendly event—Beaker Bash! On February 4, 2017, McWane will present Beaker Bash: Are We There Yet? Come journey

PHOTO: ALBERT HICKS

JANUARY

ANNUALEVENTS through McWane Science Center to creatively explore the science of transportation and the amazing innovations that help us travel around the planet. Participants will navigate down winding roads, soar through the air, sail across the seas, and ride the rails to experience far away places. 205.714.8300; mcwane.org

Candyology Day MCWANE SCIENCE CENTER

February 14: Celebrate Valentines Day at McWane by engineering a gum drop structure or feeding your brain a Valentine treat. 205.714.8300; mcwane.org

Birmingham Civil Rights Institute Black History Month BIRMINGHAM CIVIL RIGHTS INSTITUTE

The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute and the citizens of Birmingham attend celebrations and educational experiences throughout the month. Admission charged. 205.328.9696 ext. 203; bcri.org

I Do With a View VULCAN PARK AND MUSEUM

couples the chance to marry or renew their vows on the most romantic day of the year – Valentine’s Day – with Vulcan as their witness. The knowledgeable staff of GoPro Event Solutions coordinates the ceremonies that will take place on the City Overlook with beautiful Downtown Birmingham as the backdrop. Packages include an intimate 30-minute, outdoor ceremony performed by a licensed officiate, a keepsake bridal bouquet and boutonniere, professional photographs, and a champagne toast for the bride and groom. Reservations are available for purchase on a first-come, first-served basis. 205.933.1409; visitvulcan.com

Mercedes Marathon and Half Marathon LINN PARK

Folks from all over run in this downSouth, down-home qualifier to the Boston Marathon, but you don’t have to be a seasoned runner to participate in the weekend events and festivities. 205.870.7771; mercedesmarathon.com

February 14: Vulcan® Park and Museum in partnership with 97.3 Play is offering

 DENOTES EXCURSIONS SPONSORED EVENT—Go mobile at EXCURSIONSGO.com

MARCH St. Patty’s Day Parade DOWNTOWN BIRMINGHAM

March 11 , 2017: Everyone Irish, and those who want to be, will be traveling down Birmingham’s “green” 20th St. The parade is a joint venture between Operation New Birmingham, The Alabama Celtic Association, Birmingham Irish Cultural Society and related organizations. 205.324.8797

Holi Festival BIRMINGHAM MUSEUM OF ART

March 11, 2017: The Museum and ICS are thrilled to host Holi, the Indian celebration of color for the sixth year in a row! Enjoy classical Indian and Bollywood style dancing and music, food, storytelling, artmaking and gallery exploration. 205.254.2565; artsbma.org

Cottontails Village Arts, Crafts and Gift Shows BIRMINGHAM JEFFERSON CONVENTION COMPLEX

March 3, 2017 – March 5, 2017: Many of the familiar exhibitors from Christmas Village Festival switch gears to create a

EXCURSIONS 81

ANNUALEVENTS

4th of July at Vulcan Park & Museum

Birmingham Revealed Cultural Series VULCAN PARK AND MUSEUM

March 2016 – April 2016: This cultural series is designed to educate, enlighten and entertain participants on the people and cultures that have made Birmingham the diverse city it is today. This year, the two programs are “Slippery Slope: The Consequences of Hate” (March 10) and “Jazz in Birmingham” (April 21). Tickets for each event are $8 for members and $10 for nonmembers. 205.933.1409; visitvulcan.com

Spring Walking Tours VULCAN PARK AND MUSEUM

March - May: Join Vulcan Park and Museum and friends for an educational and fun walking tour series of Birmingham’s neighborhoods. The series will begin on March 19 with a tour of downtown and the great renovation projects our city has undertaken. We will explore the Parkside community on April 16 and conclude the series with a tour of the Forest Park neighborhood on May 14. Admission charged. 205.933.1409; visitvulcan.com

82 EXCURSIONS

APRIL ONB Magic City Art Connection LINN PARK

April 28-30, 2017: Experience contemporary art amongst the beautiful shady trees in historic Linn Park the last full weekend in April. One of the best festivals of its kind in the region, the 3 day event features more than 200 exhibiting artists, creative workshops for children, live music, dance performances and fun for the whole family. Corks & Chefs (next listing) is also a popular draw at the festival. 205.595.6306; magiccityart.com.

Corks and Chefs LINN PARK

April 28-30, 2017: This highly anticipated food extravaganza is the place where art, food & wine meet to create an explosion of sights, aromas and flavors. Taste cuisine from Birmingham’s top restaurants and chefs, and sip a bounty of unique wines from around the world. This is the only ticketed portion of Magic City Art Connection (previous listing) 205.595.6306; magiccityart.com

Honda Indy Grand Prix of Alabama BARBER MOTORSPORTS PARK

April 22-23, 2017: Pack your picnic, bring a cooler and head out to Barber Motorsports Park for a weekend full of activities

and racing. This family-friendly event is right in your own backyard, so don’t miss out. 205.298.9040 barbermotorsports.com

MAY Birmingham Rose Show BIRMINGHAM BOTANICAL GARDENS

May 13-14, 2017: A weekend of roses, with many contest categories, including a photography division. Educational seminars on rose care will also be offered. birminghamrose.org

The Regions Tradition GREYSTON GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

May 18-22, 2017: The Regions Tradition, one of five major tournaments on the PGA Champions Tour, will be played at the beautiful Greystone Golf & Country Club. Admission charged. 205.969.9229; regionstradition.com

JUNE Vulcan’s 113th Birthday Bash VULCAN PARK AND MUSEUM

Make plans to attend the BIGGEST birthday bash in Birmingham! Vulcan may be the world’s largest cast iron statue, but he still needs help blowing out his birthday candles! There are activities for the whole family in celebration of the BIG

PHOTO: (LEFT) BOB FARLEY

spring shopping experience for their customers. Original art, handcrafted soaps and unique jewelry, created by artisans from across America. 205.836.7178; christmasvillagefestival.com

ANNUALEVENTS

Magic City Art Connection

Slicefest

GUY’s 113th Birthday! Admission will be charged. Vulcan Park & Museum; 205.933.1409; visitvulcan.com

Trunkstock AVONDALE BREWING COMPANY

A funky fundraising collaboration benefits The Birmingham Zoo and REV Birmingham. A full day of notable musical talent, food from local food trucks and, of course, Avondale’s beers. It seems like everyone in Birmingham shows up for this one! avondalebrewing.com

Juneteenth Culture Fest Celebration

PHOTO: (LEFT) DAVID R. DONALDSON

KELLY INGRAM PARK

June 19, 2017: Celebrating the day slaves in Texas learned of their freedom, the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute throws a family fun day in Kelly Ingram Park annually. The day’s activities include live music from local gospel choirs, children’s games and blow-up fun activities, performances from local dance troops, lots of wacky contests and more. 205.328.9696; bcri.org

Slicefest LAKEVIEW/SLICE PIZZA AND BREWHOUSE

Great pizza from Slice and a host of food trucks, local brews, all day musical line up and the Beer Experience. This kid and pet friendly one-day festival is quickly becoming one of the premiere events of the summer in Birmingham. slicefest.com

Birmingham Neighborhoods Exhibit VULCAN PARK AND MUSEUM

June – December 2017: Linn-Henley Gallery at Vulcan Park and Museum will present a survey of some of the success stories of Birmingham neighborhoods. The Birmingham metro area is home to 99 neighborhoods. With the recent acceleration of restoration among Birmingham’s historic properties, Birmingham Neighborhoods will highlight areas such as Five Points, to show the community how a clear vision can reestablish a once vibrant area. General museum admission charged. 205.933.1409; visitvulcan.com

JULY 4th of July Fireworks VULCAN PARK AND MUSEUM

July 4, 2017: Vulcan Park and Museum throws a 4th of July fireworks extravaganza on top of Red Mountain, showering the beloved iron man, Vulcan, with sparkling light. Folks bring lawn chairs and line the streets of southside, downtown and Homewood to celebrate our nation’s independence. 205.933.1409; visitvulcan.com

Tin Roof Brew Bash LAKEVIEW/TIN ROOF

This one-day street festival closes down

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part of 7th Ave. S in Lakeview in front of Tin Roof and features beers from our local breweries, bands and great food. tinroofbars.com/birmingham

Alabama Theatre Summer Film Series ALABAMA THEATRE

This historic theatre is a must for film lovers in the summer! Classics are featured on Saturday evenings and Sunday matinees. Select Sundays offer kids matinees. Admission charged. 205.251.0418; alabamatheatre.com

AUGUST Sidewalk Film Festival DOWNTOWN BIRMINGHAM

August 25-27, 2017: Downtown screening venues are packed with enthusiastic crowds excited to see the best movies, documentaries and short films by independent filmmakers from around the world. Five days, 250 plus films, eleven parties, sixteeen venues and 13,000 people. Admission charged. 205.324.0888; sidewalkfest.com

Birmingham Restaurant Week SELECT LOCAL RESTAURANTS

Check website for dates: Spotlighting the Magic City’s great culinary community since 2010. This is a 7-day culinary affair where locally owned and operated restauEXCURSIONS 83

ANNUALEVENTS rants offer incentives for patrons to visit their favorite restaurants or to experience new ones. bhamrestaurantweek.com

Secret Stages DOWNTOWN BIRMINGHAM

Secret Stages brings thousands of people to downtown Birmingham. For two nights music enthusiasts are treated to over 80 bands performing on up to eleven different stages. Acts are drawn from the nationally and locally. The spirit of Secret Stages celebrates that which is coming next in the world of music. secretstages.net

Taste of 4th Avenue Jazz Festival DOWNTOWN BIRMINGHAM

The Fourth Avenue Business District will be filled with the sounds of live jazz music and the taste of the best soul food that Birmingham has to offer. The children’s area offers a fantastic array of activities for the whole family. justataste.org

SEPTEMBER ArtWalk DOWNTOWN BIRMINGHAM

City streets from Morris Ave. to 2nd Ave. open their doors to artists featuring original works in all media. Storefronts, coffeehouses and lofts generally donate their space to be used as makeshift galleries for the weekend. The Kids Zone features art activities for the family, while bars and restaurants scattered through downtown open for food and local music. birminghamartwalk.org

Vulcan AfterTunes VULCAN PARK AND MUSEUM

September - October 2017: This fall, enjoy cool tunes, craft brews and sweet views on Sunday afternoons with your favorite cast iron statue, Vulcan. Chill out in Birmingham’s backyard and end your week with some of the area’s best music while witnessing spectacular views of Birmingham’s city skyline. This annual three-part concert series features local and national acts that each brings a unique sound to the Vulcan AfterTunes stage. Admission charged. 205.933.1409; visitvulcan.com

OCTOBER Magic City Classic LEGION FIELD

October 28, 2017: Alabama State University collides with Alabama A&M at Legion Field to battle for victory in this longstanding football rivalry. Like any legend84 EXCURSIONS

ary football rivalry, the competition always proves to be bitter and close with spectacular plays, fiercely loyal fans and lots of school pageantry. 205.967.4745; themagiccityclassic.com

Barber Vintage Festival BARBER MOTORSPORTS PARK

October 6-8, 2017: This three-day festival features the America’s First Fan Zone offering food and entertainment, Ace Corner A Century Parade, a swap meet with hundreds of vendors, wall of death, globe of death, on the edge stunts shows and more! barbermotorsports.com

Fiesta! LINN PARK

Experience Hispanic culture through music, food, art and dance. Fiesta! is a unique opportunity to learn about more than 20 Latin American countries represented in their own community. Set on the lawn of Linn Park, this festival draws fun crowds of more than 20,000, making it one of the largest of its kind in the Southeast. fiestahbc.com

Cask & Drum

natural materials. Listen to live music while tasting the best from chefs, bakers, craft brewers, and food trucks. Learn about sustainability topics, innovations, products and services in the Eco District and SmartLIVING Market. Plus there’s guided hikes and cool art workshops for the kids. 205.595.6306; mossrockfestival.com

Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) DOWNTOWN BIRMINGHAM

November 2, 2017: Always celebrated on November 2, Birmingham’s annual Day of the Dead Festival is based on a Hispanic tradition, Dia de los Muertos, honoring friends and family who have died. Complete with a procession, music, performances art and food from some of Birmingham’s best restaurants, Day of the Dead Festival is celebrated in Downtown. Google “Day of the Dead Birmingham” for the latest information and location.

DECEMBER Alabama Theatre Christmas Film Festival ALABAMA THEATRE

LAKEVIEW

Cask & Drum is Birmingham’s freshest new event and unlike anything you’ve ever seen in The Magic City. To sum it up in one sentence, it would go something like this: Cask & Drum is a place you can find your favorite new band, beer and wine— all in a single afternoon. caskanddrum.com

NOVEMBER Veteran’s Day Parade DOWNTOWN BIRMINGHAM

November 11, 2017: Recognized as the nation’s oldest and largest Veteran’s Day observance, the day’s events include an elaborate parade, a dinner honoring the National Veterans Awards recipient, a world peace luncheon, ROTC/JROTC Drill Competition and a memorial service all honor those who have served and are currently serving in the U.S. Military. 205.942.5800; nationalveteransday.org

Annual screenings of It’s A Wonderful Life and National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation are just a part of what makes this film fest magical. Admission charged. 205.251.0418; alabamatheatre.com

Zoolight Safari BIRMINGHAM ZOO

See the Birmingham Zoo illuminated with more than half a million lights by train ride or foot. One of the few times to enjoy the zoo at night. 205.879.0409; birminghamzoo.com ❖

Moss Rock Festival THE PRESERVE IN HOOVER

Alabama’s premier art and eco festival held at The Preserve in Hoover explores nature, eco-ideas, art + design under a blanket of Fall colors the first weekend in November. Wander Artist Row and find artwork inspired by nature or made from recycled or

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Sloss Music & Arts Festival SLOSS FURNACES

July 15-16, 2017: Now in its third year, this multifaceted event brings more than 30 bands to three stages at Sloss Furnaces National Historic Park. slossfest.com photograph by Andi Rice

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